From Merida: Explore all the Cenotes of Homun Day Trip

Traveling to the Yucatan Peninsula offers countless adventures, but few experiences are as uniquely refreshing as exploring the cenotes of Homun. While many will focus on the popular Chichen Itza or Uxmal, this full-day trip promises a more intimate encounter with nature’s hidden wonders. We’re here to give you an honest look at what you can expect, what’s worth your time, and how to make the most of this journey.

What draws us most is the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by stalactites, capturing the beauty of underground limestone formations. The combination of natural beauty, authentic Mayan cuisine, and a relaxed pace makes this tour appealing—especially if you’re craving more than just archaeological sites. One thing to note is that transportation has received some mixed reviews, so a good level of patience might be required.

This trip suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, are eager to experience authentic local spots, and don’t mind sharing a bus with fellow explorers. If you’re after a well-rounded day that mixes nature with cultural flavor, this tour could be a perfect pick.

Key Points

• Authentic cenote experience: Swim and photograph in natural sinkholes with impressive stalactite formations.
• Traditional cuisine: Enjoy a delicious meal featuring Mayan dishes, adding a cultural touch to your day.
• Comfortable round transportation: Includes round trip from Merida, but check reviews for potential vehicle concerns.
• Guided tour: Bilingual guides help explain the history and significance of each stop.
• Flexible options: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.
• Duration: A full-day, 10-hour experience that balances activity and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Cenotes of Homun: What This Tour Offers

The Starting Point and Transportation Setup

The adventure begins at the meeting point on Calle 60 in Mérida, a straightforward location for most travelers staying in the city. Transport is included, but some reviews, such as one from Irma, have highlighted issues like long waits and old vans lacking air conditioning. If you’re sensitive to heat or don’t enjoy cramped conditions, these could affect your comfort. The guide, speaking both Spanish and English, aims to keep the group informed, but the shared vehicle might feel less than luxurious at times.

First Stop: Cenote Chulul

Your journey kicks off with a visit to Cenote Chulul, where you get about an hour to explore. While the tour doesn’t specify what makes this cenote unique, most visitors enjoy its tranquil waters—perfect for a quick swim or photo session. The relatively short stop means you won’t spend too long in transit, though the pace might feel brisk if you’re eager to linger.

Second Stop: Cenote Hool Kosom

Next, you’ll visit Cenote Hool Kosom, with about an hour dedicated to swimming. This cenote is often praised for its stunning underground formations. You’ll get to see stalactites hanging from the ceiling and have opportunities for swimming and photography. Expect a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxing amidst nature’s quiet beauty. According to some reviews, the scenery here is breathtaking enough to make the trip worthwhile.

More Great Tours Nearby

Main Attraction: Homun Town and Other Cenotes

The highlight for many is the time spent in Homun itself, where you get around two hours for more swimming and exploration. Here, the tour allows plenty of time to truly enjoy the surroundings, snap photos of the lush greenery, and soak in the calm vibe of this lesser-known town. The cenotes here are described as natural wonders, with some featuring stalactite and stalagmite formations that truly dazzle.

The Food: Mayan Cuisine

No tour of the Yucatán is complete without sampling its flavors. The included lunch is typically a delicious local meal, offering traditional Mayan dishes. Many travelers appreciate this part of the experience, as it provides a chance to taste authentic flavors and relax after a morning of adventure. It’s a good way to connect with the culture beyond just the natural sights.

Returning to Mérida

The tour concludes back at the start point after a full day of sights and swims. It’s a long day—10 hours in total—so packing comfortable shoes, swimwear, and patience is advisable. Keep in mind that if you’re a no-show or change your plans last-minute, rescheduling isn’t an option, and you’d need to book again.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic, Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience

Many travelers choose this tour over more crowded attractions because it offers a more genuine look at the cenotes away from tourist-heavy zones. The landscape is lush, the waters are pristine, and the quiet atmosphere allows you to truly unwind at each stop.

The Photography Goldmine

Photographers or anyone who loves capturing nature’s beauty will find plenty to love here. The underground stalactites and the clear waters create stunning visuals—perfect for social media or personal memories.

A Taste of Mayan Culture

While the focus is on the natural wonders, the included meal adds an important cultural layer. Tasting traditional dishes provides a satisfying end to the adventure and a connection to the local community.

Value for Money

At $119 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day out—transports, guide, meals, and access to several cenotes. Considering that some cenotes charge entrance fees and that guided tours often include transportation and food, this price point is quite reasonable for a full-day experience.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Transportation Concerns

One notable critique from travelers like Irma points to long waits and old, uncooled vans. If you’re sensitive to heat or prefer a smoother ride, these aspects could impact your comfort. It’s worth arriving prepared with water, and if possible, requesting early pickup or checking if newer vehicles are available.

Limited Flexibility

The tour operates on a fixed schedule, and last-minute changes or cancellations on your part mean forfeiting your spot, as rescheduling isn’t permitted without rebooking.

Duration and Pace

With 10 hours packed into this day, some might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if you prefer a more leisurely pace or wish to spend longer at each cenote.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This trip offers a solid balance between adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to see multiple cenotes without the hassle of planning transport or food. The chance to swim in serene waters, photograph stunning underground formations, and enjoy authentic local cuisine makes this a memorable option.

However, if you’re particularly sensitive to transportation comfort or prefer more flexible, less structured outings, you may want to weigh those factors or consider alternatives. The reviews highlight that some parts of the experience could be improved, but overall, the natural beauty and cultural flavor make it a worthwhile addition to your Yucatan itinerary.

In short, this tour provides a rewarding half-day of nature, history, and flavor—a great choice for curious travelers eager to experience the real Yucatán beyond the archeological ruins.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, from pickup in Mérida to return.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Tours Sol Turquesa, on Calle 60, near Calle 61 in Mérida.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, access to the cenotes, a guide speaking Spanish and English, a non-alcoholic beverage, life vests, and a traditional Mayan lunch.

Are drinks at the bus and restaurant included?
No, drinks beyond the provided non-alcoholic beverage are not included, and you might want to bring cash for additional beverages.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, water, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for extras.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s generally suitable for most but not recommended for those with back problems or limited mobility, especially considering the outdoor nature and walking involved.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I’m a no-show or decide not to go last minute?
Rescheduling isn’t possible on the same day, so you’d need to rebook and pay again.

Are there any hidden costs?
Apart from optional drinks and souvenirs, everything listed—meals, transport, guide—is included in the price.

If you’re eager to experience the natural wonders of Yucatán’s cenotes with the convenience of guided tours and local flavors, this trip offers a balanced, memorable day out. Just be prepared for a day full of swimming, picture-taking, and culture—and perhaps a little patience with the transport!

You can check availability for your dates here: