Private Tour Kabah & Uxmal plus Mayan Workshop Experience

Discovering the Mayan World: A Deep Dive into the Kabah & Uxmal Tour with a Hands-On Twist

Thinking about exploring some of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most captivating Mayan sites? This private tour of Kabah and Uxmal, paired with a Mayan pottery workshop, offers a thoughtful blend of history, culture, and hands-on fun—all packed into a 9-hour day. We appreciate how it balances the awe of ancient ruins with interactive learning and regional flavors.

What really catches our eye is the opportunity to walk through two UNESCO-listed sites with expert guidance, and then get a glimpse into traditional Mayan craftsmanship in a local community. Plus, the Yucatecan lunch—featuring the famous cochinita pibil—adds a tasty local touch.

Of course, since it’s a full-day adventure, one thing to consider is the pace. If you prefer leisurely, unstructured days or aren’t keen on early mornings, it’s worth noting that the tour involves a fairly tight schedule. Still, for those interested in history, art, and authentic experiences, this tour hits a lot of the right notes. It’s especially good for curious travelers who want more than just a sightseeing blitz—they’ll enjoy the stories, the food, and the chance to leave with a handmade keepsake.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience on the Puuc Route offers personalized insights.
• Visit two major archaeological sites: Kabah, with its iconic Codz Pop temple, and Uxmal, a true jewel of the Mayan world.
• Enjoy regional Yucatecan cuisine, especially the cochinita pibil, in a local restaurant.
• Participate in a Mayan pottery workshop, learning about hieroglyphs and ceramic techniques firsthand.
• All site admission tickets and transportation are included, making it a hassle-free day.
• A well-rounded tour appealing to history buffs, art lovers, and those interested in indigenous culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Look at the Itinerary: What You Can Expect from the Day

Starting Point and Transportation

You’ll be picked up at your Mérida accommodation, with a comfortable 1.5-hour van ride to kick off the day. Traveling in a private group means you avoid the crowds and can tailor the experience—always a bonus in busy tourist spots.

Exploring Kabah: The Hidden Gem

Your first stop is Kabah, an important site along the Puuc Route. It’s not as famous as Chichen Itza, but that’s part of its charm. The highlight here is the Codz Pop temple, which translates roughly to “rolled mat” or “royal mat,” and is famous for its masks of the rain god Chaac. These masks are a striking sight, made up of hundreds of carved pieces—each one a tiny work of art.

Our tour guides do a great job explaining how Kabah once rivaled Uxmal, interconnected by an 18 km sacbé, or stone road. It’s a compelling example of Mayan ingenuity and urban planning. While the site isn’t sprawling, the intricate carvings and well-preserved structures offer plenty of photo opportunities and insights into Mayan religious life.

Uxmal: The Crown Jewel

After a roughly hour-long drive, you arrive at Uxmal, a true marvel. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Uxmal’s architecture is jaw-dropping. Its geometric mosaics, sculptures, and polished stone walls speak volumes about Mayan artistry and craftsmanship.

Expect to spend around two hours exploring the site, with plenty of time to appreciate the Pyramid of the Magician, the Governor’s Palace, and other structures. The level of detail, symmetry, and preservation here really highlights the skill of ancient Mayan builders. As one reviewer noted, Uxmal is a “jewel of Mayan art,” and it’s easy to see why—every corner invites admiration.

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Yucatecan Lunch: Tasting Local Flavors

A highlight of the tour is the regional lunch at a local restaurant. The star dish is cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted, marinated pork wrapped in banana leaves, cooked underground. If you’re lucky to arrive early enough (before 1:00 pm), you might also get to witness the traditional unearthing process, which adds a cultural dimension to the meal.

Many travelers find the meal to be both hearty and flavorful, offering a genuine taste of Yucatán’s culinary traditions. It’s a good break after a morning of walking and site touring, plus a chance to relax and chat.

Hands-On Mayan Workshop in Muna

Post-lunch, you’ll head to Muna, a local community where a Mayan family guides you through an art workshop. Here, you learn to decorate clay vessels, paint Mayan codices, and interpret hieroglyphs—bringing ancient traditions into your hands. The workshop isn’t just about creating something pretty; it’s a deep dive into the symbolism, techniques, and stories behind Mayan ceramics.

This aspect of the tour is particularly well-regarded. One traveler called Blanca, the guide, “a wealth of knowledge,” and appreciated how she made the history accessible and engaging. The opportunity to craft your own piece and understand the meanings behind the hieroglyphs adds a personal and educational touch to your day.

Return Trip and Reflection

After the workshop, you’ll ride back to Mérida, roughly 1.5 hours, with time to reflect on the sights, the food, and the new skills you’ve learned. The day ends comfortably back at your accommodation.

The Value of the Tour: Is It Worth It?

At $335 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines history, culture, and hands-on participation. The inclusion of private transportation, site admissions, and guided explanations means you’re getting a lot of value packed into one day.

Travelers have expressed appreciation for the knowledge and professionalism of guides—one reviewer praised David Salas for his “great culture and attention,” while another loved Blanca’s engaging storytelling. The small, private group setting enhances the experience, making it more personal and flexible.

The delicious Yucatecan lunch and the chance to create your own pottery are memorable touches that elevate this beyond typical ruins visits. It’s clear many visitors feel they received a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Mayan culture—not just a quick photo stop.

Who’s It Best For?

This tour suits those who want a deep dive into Mayan ruins with personalized guidance, enjoy interactive experiences, and are open to a full day of sightseeing and learning. It’s ideal for curious travelers keen on understanding the stories behind the stones and eager to take home a handcrafted souvenir. If you’re traveling with kids 12+, they’ll likely enjoy the pottery workshop and site visits, but younger children under 12 might find it a long day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re seeking a comprehensive, engaging day exploring the Mayan sites of Uxmal and Kabah, this tour ticks many boxes. The guided visits are informative without being overwhelming, the sites are stunning, and the inclusion of a pottery workshop makes the whole experience more meaningful. Plus, the regional lunch offers a taste of authentic Yucatán flavors.

The tour’s private setup ensures a more relaxed pace and personalized attention, which many travelers find adds to the overall enjoyment. The reviews also highlight the quality of guides and the delicious local food, making it clear that this experience is thoughtfully curated.

However, it’s a full-day commitment—so if you prefer unstructured mornings or are traveling with very young children who might not enjoy walking and site visits, it’s worth considering that aspect. The limited wheelchair accessibility might also be a factor for some.

All in all, this tour offers a beautiful balance of history, culture, and hands-on fun—perfect for travelers who want to truly connect with the Mayan world beyond just sightseeing. It’s a thoughtful, enriching way to spend a day in Mérida, leaving you with stories, skills, and a deeper appreciation for this ancient civilization.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, it is designed for private groups, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak both Spanish and English, helping you understand the stories behind the ruins.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 9 hours, including transportation and site visits.

Are tickets included? Yes, admission tickets for Kabah, Uxmal, and the workshop are all included, so you skip the lines and hassle.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended. Don’t forget your passport or ID for minors and some cash.

Is this suitable for children? Children 12 and older are welcome, and many reviews suggest they’ll enjoy the pottery workshop and ruins. Kids under 12 pay as adults.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your travel plans.

Is the lunch included? No, lunch is paid separately at the restaurant, but it’s a highlight for many, featuring regional dishes like cochinita pibil.

Are there any optional stops? No, the itinerary is flexible and designed to focus on the ruins, workshop, and local cuisine without mandatory souvenir shop visits.

If you’re craving a meaningful, culturally immersive day exploring the stunning Mayan sites with a chance to create your own piece of history, this tour is definitely worth considering. It offers a real taste of Yucatán’s ancient and living traditions—something you’ll remember long after the trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: