From Merida: Uxmal and Kabah Archaeological Sites Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula and want to explore Mayan ruins without the crowds of Chichen Itza, this tour might just be a solid choice. It’s a full-day, guided adventure that takes you from the lively streets of Merida into the heart of ancient Maya civilization.

We love that this tour offers expert guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, making the ruins come alive. Plus, the scenic drive through lush Yucatan landscapes is a highlight in itself. On the flip side, it’s a bit of a long day — around 7 hours — which might be tiring, especially in the heat.

If you’re a traveler who values rich explanations of historical sites and prefers to avoid massive crowds, this tour will probably suit you well. It’s also ideal if you want a taste of two significant archaeological sites without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Key Points

• Cost-effective at $49 per person, including transportation and guides.
• Less crowded sites compared to Chichen Itza, offering a more relaxed experience.
• Knowledgeable guides who bring the sites’ stories to life with enthusiasm.
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vans, making the long day easier.
• Beautiful scenery of the Yucatan landscape en route.
• Flexible options for pickup and drop-off at central locations in Merida.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour?

This is a well-paced, value-driven experience that covers two important Mayan sites — Uxmal and Kabah — in one day. The price, which includes transport, a guide, and bottled water, makes it appealing for budget-conscious travelers. What really stands out is how many reviewers mention the passion and knowledge of the guides, which makes the ruins more meaningful.

The tour’s focus on less crowded sites like Uxmal and Kabah means you’ll enjoy a more authentic, less touristy atmosphere. Many mention that Uxmal feels especially beautiful, with fewer travelers than Chichen Itza, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.

The Itinerary: A Day in Mayan Land

The day kicks off with a pickup at either Ibis Styles or Starbucks Paseo Montejo. The van ride to Uxmal takes about an hour and a half, giving you plenty of time to settle in and soak up the scenery. Once there, you’ll spend roughly two hours touring Uxmal with a guide who will explain its significance and point out its highlights.

Uxmal is renowned for its impressive Puuc-style architecture and intricate stone carvings. Many reviews highlight how engaging and passionate guides like Emanuel, Riccardo, or Gleny make the history accessible and fun. One reviewer even mentions that the guide “had a lot of passion about the sites we visited,” which really enhances the experience.

After Uxmal, a quick 25-minute drive takes you to Kabah, another captivating site. Here, you’ll spend about two hours exploring the ruins, which are less crowded but no less impressive. Kabah is known for its elaborate stucco decoration and the famous “Palace of the Masks.” According to reviews, this site is a “hidden gem” that feels more intimate and personal.

The return trip to Merida is about 1.5 hours, during which you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some reviews suggest that this is a perfect way to see important ruins and then still have the rest of your day free for exploring Merida’s vibrant streets.

What You Get and What You Pay For

Included in the $49 price are transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, a knowledgeable guide, and 2 bottles of water — a small but appreciated touch, especially on hot days. The tour also includes skip-the-line entry to the sites (though you will still need to pay the entrance fees of MXN 700 per adult or MXN 200 per child for foreign guests, or MXN 350 for Mexican IDs).

Not included are hotel pickup and drop-off, which is worth considering if you’re staying outside the central area. The tour starts from meeting points in the city, so plan accordingly.

Reviewers generally feel that the value is good, especially given the price of entrance fees and the high quality of guides. One traveler pointed out that the entrance fees are “a little pricey,” but also acknowledged the overall excellent experience.

The Guide Experience: Making History Come Alive

Multiple reviews emphasize how much guides like Emanuel, Gleny, Hector, and others bring the ruins to life. Their ability to answer questions in both Spanish and English, and to share personal stories and insights, greatly enriches the visit. One review mentions that the guides “did all to make you feel like family,” which speaks volumes about their dedication.

Several travelers noted that their guides were well-prepared, enthusiastic, and eager to share their knowledge. A common theme: the guides’ passion makes the difference between a good tour and a memorable one.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Sites: Uxmal and Kabah in Focus

Uxmal is often the highlight — its grand structures and detailed carvings are breathtaking. When you see the Pyramid of the Magician or the Nunnery Quadrangle, you’ll understand why Uxmal is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many reviews mention how peaceful it is compared to more popular spots, allowing for better photos and a quieter experience.

Kabah offers a different vibe — it’s smaller but filled with intricate stucco reliefs and the famous “Palace of the Masks.” One reviewer called it a “hidden gem,” which is fitting because it’s less visited than Uxmal but equally fascinating. The ruins are generally in good condition, and the site’s less crowded feeling makes wandering around more enjoyable.

The Scenery and Comfort

The scenic drive through the Yucatan landscape is a major plus. Travelers often comment on the lush greenery and tropical views, which make the journey itself a nice part of the day. The vans are described as comfortable and air-conditioned, essential for a day that can easily hit the high 80s or 90s.

Some reviews mention bringing snacks, as there’s only a short window to buy food outside the sites and the entrance fees don’t include lunch. It’s worth planning ahead for this if you’re a hungry traveler.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is great for history buffs, those who prefer a less crowded experience, and budget travelers looking for a comprehensive yet affordable day trip. It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but still want a well-rounded visit to two significant Mayan sites.

It’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or prefer a more leisurely pace with time to explore on your own — the guided nature and group setting might feel a bit rushed for some.

Final Thoughts

This Uxmal and Kabah tour from Merida offers a solid, well-organized way to experience some of the most important Mayan sites in the Yucatan. The combination of scenic drives, knowledgeable guides, and fewer crowds makes it stand out. The price point is reasonable considering the entrance fees and guided service, especially given the positive reviews praising the guides’ passion and knowledge.

If you’re eager to see authentic ruins that aren’t overwhelmed by travelers, and want to learn about Mayan culture from friendly, lively guides, this trip will be a good fit. Just remember to bring water, sunscreen, and an appetite for fascinating history.

FAQs

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees your spot, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts about 7 hours, including travel time, so be prepared for a full day out.

Are entrance fees included?
No, you must pay the entrance fees directly — MXN 700 per adult or MXN 200 per child for foreign guests, or MXN 350 for Mexican IDs.

Is hotel pickup available?
Not directly; you’ll meet at designated pickup points in Merida, such as Starbucks Paseo Montejo or Ibis Styles.

What should I bring?
Biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and possibly a snack for later since there are limited options outside the sites.

Are the sites accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the uneven terrain and site conditions.

Does the guide speak English?
Yes, guides are available in both Spanish and English, and many reviews praise their bilingual skills.

How crowded are the sites?
Much less crowded than Chichen Itza, especially at Uxmal. Kabah tends to be more secluded and peaceful.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
Many recommend visiting during the cooler season for more comfortable weather.

Is this suitable for families?
While not specifically aimed at children, the sites are fascinating for older kids interested in history, but keep in mind the walking and heat.

This tour is a well-rounded, budget-friendly opportunity to connect more intimately with Mayan ruins away from the tourist crowds. It’s a day that many reviewers say leaves them with lasting memories, thanks to passionate guides and breathtaking scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: