Merida & Riviera Maya

Meet & greet at Cancun International airport and transfer to Chichen Itza (2.5 hours)

If time permits, on route quick stop at Valladolid, this is a colorful colonial city with beautiful and charming neighborhoods, it is a region where two-thirds of the residents are native Yucatec Maya speakers, a place with the largest number of cenotes in the area, and where the traditional customs characterize the worldview and life of its inhabitants.

This morning you will enter Chichen Itza before the crowds, here you will visit the famous Kukulkan pyramid, the ball court, the observatory, the nunnery and the “cenote sagrado”(the sacrifice well).

After you will continue to Mérida (2 hours).

Your Merida & Riviera Maya journey continues with a visit to Uman, a charming village just 30 minutes from Merida. Start by exploring the 16th-century San Francisco de Asis Church, a beautiful stone structure with Gothic columns. Afterward, stroll through the local market, sampling exotic fruits before heading to Oxkintok, an important Mayan archaeological site. Oxkintok, known as “the city of the three flint suns,” dates back to 300 BC and once controlled trade across the Yucatan Peninsula.

Next, visit Hacienda San Pedro Ochil, a restored 19th-century henequen estate. You’ll see artisans’ traditional crafts, such as hammocks, jewelry, and huipiles (Mayan dresses). After touring the hacienda, return to your hotel in Merida.

After breakfast, journey to Celestun Reserve, located 95 km west of Merida. This biosphere reserve is home to over 170 bird species, including vibrant pink flamingos. As you glide through the lagoon, keep an eye out for crocodiles, turtles, and other wildlife. The tour also includes time to relax on a secluded beach and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, return to Merida, ready for more exploration on your Merida & Riviera Maya adventure.

Discover the cultural treasures of Merida on this Merida & Riviera Maya day. Walk through the “White City,” where you’ll explore the historic streets and colonial architecture. Visit iconic sites such as the Merida Cathedral, Casa de Montejo, the Government Palace, and cultural centers. Along the way, stop to enjoy authentic Yucatecan cuisine and experience the lively atmosphere of local markets and parks.

On your way to Tulum, stop at the Coba Archaeological Site, one of the hidden gems of the Merida & Riviera Mayatour. Surrounded by lush jungle and two lagoons, Coba offers a fascinating glimpse into Mayan history. You can walk along ancient white roads (sacbéob) and even climb the highest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan, Nohoch Mul. The site remains largely unexcavated, preserving its natural beauty and historical significance. Optional zipline tours are available for thrill-seekers.

Begin the day with a trip to the Muyil archaeological site. Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll hike through the forest to the shores of the Chunyaxche Lagoon. Take a relaxing float down freshwater canals, a highlight of the Merida & Riviera Maya experience. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Mayan lunch, immersing yourself in the region’s cultural heritage.

Morning departure to Señor (1.5 hours) This a quaint village to experience an authentic Mayan community, a destination where inhabitants are willing to open their homes to visitors. It is an opportunity to get close to local people and learn about their traditions, customs, and trade the inhabitants of this area still engage in daily; this a heritage that they protect as an essential legacy of their Mayan ancestors. Here you will learn about Maya Medicine plants, Henequen spinning demonstration, legends and storytelling, textiles,
Afterwards move to Tihosuco (40 minutes), one of the top attractions of the village is its magnificent church and a convent dedicated to the Divine Child located in the center of the town, just west of the main square.

The town is rich in history, culture, and traditions, has a museum devoted to the social Maya War, also known as the Caste War, where visitors can see magnificent paintings and even the weapons used during this historic event, as well a s the original documents and artifacts.

You will enjoy a lunch from the Mayan Yucatecan Cuisine and afternoon return to Tulum.

Today, explore Tulum’s stunning archaeological site, which sits on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. El Castillo, the tallest structure, offers breathtaking views of the coast. After touring the ruins, take time to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters around Tulum, marveling at the rich marine life. In the afternoon, relax on Tulum’s beautiful beaches.