Yucatan Cenotes Tour: Suytun + 3 Cenotes + Valladolid + Food + Transportation

Traveling in the Yucatan region? If you’re after unique natural sights, cultural charm, and a full-day adventure, this cenote tour might just hit the spot. Designed for those who want to see some of the most famous cenotes along with a taste of local history and cuisine, this trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into the wonders of the region.

Two things that really stand out about this experience are the spectacular cenote scenery—especially Suytun, which is often called one of Mexico’s most impressive—and the inclusive, well-organized nature of the tour, making sure you get to see a good mix of sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

One thing to keep in mind: since this is a shared tour with a maximum group size of 25, you might encounter some waiting or delays, especially during pickup or at popular spots. If you prefer a private or more flexible experience, this might not be the best fit. Still, for most travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip, it offers solid value.

This tour works well for anyone wanting a balance of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and good food—whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even as a family. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, guided experience that covers plenty of ground in one day.

Key Points

• Highlights include Suytun, three other cenotes, and Valladolid—a great mix of natural beauty and local culture.
• All transportation, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch are included, simplifying planning.
• The tour is well-reviewed for knowledgeable guides and stunning views, making it a reliable choice.
• It’s a full-day experience, roughly 8 to 9 hours, so be prepared for a day out.
• Group size is limited to 25 travelers, which helps keep it intimate but still lively.
• Reviews mention good value for money and delicious food, making it an enjoyable overall package.

What makes this tour special?

The Yucatan is famous for its cenotes, natural sinkholes formed over thousands of years that flood with crystal-clear water. These formations are not just scenic—they hold cultural significance, once believed to be entrances to the Mayan underworld. This tour offers a chance to see several of the most iconic cenotes—each with its own character and charm—and to understand their importance in local history.

Beyond the cenotes, the visit to Valladolid adds a cultural dimension. This city is full of history, old buildings, and friendly streets, giving you a chance to stretch your legs after a morning of swimming and exploring.

What’s included and what’s not?

For $160 per person, you get round-trip transportation, entrance to all the cenotes, life vests, a box lunch, and a Mexican buffet—a pretty good bundle that saves you the trouble of extra planning. A bottle of water is also provided at the cenotes, which is handy given how hot and sunny it can get.

However, tips and souvenirs are not included, so if you want to support your guide or pick up keepsakes, you’ll want to carry some cash.

The itinerary: What to expect

Stop 1: Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman

Your adventure kicks off at Oxman, an open-air cenote with high walls covered in tree roots—a sight that looks straight out of a storybook. Here, you can enjoy a swim in the fresh, cool water, surrounded by nature.

The entrance fee and vests are included, which makes it easy to just relax and enjoy from the moment you arrive. Expect around 2 hours here, so you’ll have time to swim, take photos, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Stop 2: Suytun Cenote

Next comes the highlight—Suytun, perhaps the most famous cenote in the region. Known for its game-changing lighting—sunlight filters through a small opening above, illuminating the water below—this spot creates stunning photo opportunities.

The cave-like environment makes it feel almost mystical, and you’ll likely want to spend at least an hour soaking up the views. Travel reviews rave about how impressive Suytun is, with one reviewer calling it “impressive in all of Mexico.”

Stop 3: Cenote Samula

Then, it’s underground cavern time at Samula. Surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites, this cavern surprises visitors with its wide space and crystal-clear turquoise waters. A large opening on the ceiling allows sunlight to brighten the space, making it even more magical.

Expect about an hour here, and be prepared for some beautiful photo moments—this cenote really feels like stepping into a secret world.

Stop 4: Cenote Xkeken

Legend has it that Xkeken is named after a story involving a pig that got lost in the mountain and kept returning muddy, even during droughts. The cenote itself is an enchanting underground space, with serene waters and the legend adding a touch of local flavor.

The experience here is about appreciating the legend and enjoying a peaceful swim in the calm waters. Expect to spend around an hour soaking in the atmosphere.

Stop 5: Valladolid

The day wraps up with a visit to Valladolid, a city full of history and charm. Its colonial architecture, old temples, and lively streets make it a great place to walk around, take photos, or just relax after a busy morning.

You’ll get about 30 minutes here—just enough time to explore and soak in the vibe. The town’s friendly atmosphere often leaves visitors wanting to come back for more.

The travel experience: Transportation and group size

The round-trip transportation is generally smooth, with most travelers appreciating the convenience. The group size is capped at 25, which keeps the tour intimate enough to feel personalized but lively enough for shared fun and stories.

Some reviews mention that pick-up and drop-off can take time due to the shared nature of the tour, especially if you’re the first to be picked up or if schedules shift. It’s worth being patient and flexible.

What do travelers say?

Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing interesting facts and making sure everyone feels comfortable. One reviewer praised the guide Toledo, noting he “made sure we were well taken care of.”

The stunning views and photo opportunities also get high marks. One traveler described the tour as “the best cenote tour,” emphasizing the small group experience and the learned attention to detail.

On the downside, some reviews mention communication issues (like delayed confirmations), which can be frustrating but are usually resolved with good communication. Also, since it’s a shared tour, some downtime for pickup or waiting at stops can occur.

The food and overall value

The buffet lunch is surprisingly good, according to reviews, with many mentioning that they didn’t expect such quality for a tour lunch. The box lunch includes a sandwich, fruit, and juice—simple but satisfying.

Considering the all-inclusive price, the tour offers solid value—covering transport, entrance fees, food, and even life vests. For most travelers, this means less hassle and more time enjoying the sights.

This experience is ideal for adventurers who want to see a variety of cenotes without fuss, especially if they appreciate guided trips that handle logistics. It’s suitable for groups or solo travelers who want a well-organized day in the Yucatan. Younger travelers and those interested in photography will love the scenery, but keep in mind the full-day commitment.

If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and photo-rich day with plenty of swimming, this tour fits the bill. However, if you prefer a more private, flexible experience, or are traveling with very young children or seniors who might find long bus rides challenging, you might want to explore other options.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour mainly involves swimming in cenotes and walking through historic streets, so it’s generally fine for kids comfortable with water and walking. There’s no specific mention of family-specific amenities, but it’s a full-day adventure that could work with children of some ages.

What’s the duration of the tour?
Expect about 8 to 9 hours from pickup to drop-off, including travel time, stops, and free time in Valladolid.

Are meals included?
Yes, a box lunch and a buffet Mexican meal are included, so you won’t need to worry about finding food during the day.

How many people are on the tour?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 25 travelers, which helps keep it friendly and manageable.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Since water is provided, you may also want to carry extra water or snacks if you get hungry between stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are full if canceled early; later cancellations won’t be refunded.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
It requires good weather, but if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-rated tour that combines breathtaking cenote scenery, cultural exploration of Valladolid, and tasty local food, this trip is a solid pick. The experience balances natural wonders with cultural flavor, all wrapped in an organized package that simplifies your day.

While it’s not perfect—waiting times and shared logistics can be minor annoyances—most travelers agree the stunning views and knowledgeable guides make it worthwhile. It’s especially suited for those who want a full, varied day in the Yucatan without worrying about the details.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to the region, this tour offers a memorable way to see the best of what the cenotes and Valladolid have to offer. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and your camera—you’re going to want to capture these moments.