If you’re dreaming of escaping crowded tourist spots and instead want to find true moments of peace in nature, this Discover the Serenity tour might just be what you’re looking for. It offers a chance to visit two non-commercialized cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula, away from the throngs of travelers, with a private guide to enhance your experience.
What immediately caught our attention about this tour is how it emphasizes tranquility and authenticity—two things many travelers crave after months of busy sightseeing. Plus, it includes a delicious local meal, which adds a nice cultural touch to the adventure. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that cena tickets and lunch are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately.
This experience suits travelers who love natural beauty, quiet moments, and a bit of local flavor. If you’re traveling in a small group or as a couple looking for a personalized, peaceful outing, you’ll likely find this tour very appealing.
Key Points

- Private, tailored experience with a knowledgeable guide
- Visit two serene, non-commercialized cenotes for up to one hour each
- Escape crowds and enjoy peaceful natural surroundings
- Includes a local meal or optional picnic options
- Duration of 5 hours makes it a manageable half-day trip
- Suitable for small groups up to three people, offering intimacy
Why Choose This Tour?

When you picture a trip to the Yucatán, you probably imagine stunning waters and lush scenery. What sets this tour apart is its focus on hidden gems—cenotes that remain untouched by tourism giants, allowing you to really feel the natural environment without noise or crowds.
What’s especially nice about this trip is the personalized touch. Since it’s a private group, you won’t be squeezed into a large bus with strangers. Instead, your guide will focus on your interests, sharing stories and insights about Mayan culture and the local area. From the review, we know that Alfredo, the guide, is punctual and knowledgeable, which makes a big difference.
Planning more time in Yucatan? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Drive from Mérida
The tour begins with a pickup from Mérida, making it super convenient. The drive itself is part of the experience, as your guide shares facts about the region’s history and culture. It’s a good chance to settle in and start soaking in the landscape.
First Stop: Cenote Xbatun
Your first highlight is Cenote Xbatun, described as a tranquil oasis. It’s a place where the emphasis is on relaxation, with clear waters perfect for swimming. You can enjoy up to one hour here, which is enough time to float around, take some photos, or just lounge by the water.
From the reviews, we gather that the environment is lush, with unique rock formations that make the setting especially photogenic. The silence and calm of this cenote make it clear why this spot is considered a hidden gem.
More Great Tours NearbySecond Stop: Cenote Dzonbacal
Next, you’ll visit Cenote Dzonbacal, which promises a similar peaceful vibe. This cenote also welcomes swimming and unwinding, ensuring you’ll get another dose of natural serenity. The fact that these cenotes are not commercialized means no loud vendors or crowded spaces—just the sounds of nature and your own thoughts.
Lunch in San Antonio Mulix
After your swim sessions, the tour includes a stop at a local restaurant in the village of San Antonio Mulix. Here, you’ll savor authentic Yucatán cuisine—a great opportunity to taste regional flavors and connect with local culture. The tour also notes that you can bring your own food or snacks if you prefer, with shaded areas nearby to enjoy a picnic.
Return to Mérida
The trip wraps up with the drive back, giving you time to relax and reflect on your peaceful day. The whole experience lasts about 5 hours, which feels just right—enough to enjoy the cenotes without it becoming overly long or exhausting.
What to Expect: The Good and the Not-So-Good

What we loved about this tour is the focus on peaceful, natural spots. Unlike other cenote tours that might take you to busy, commercialized locations, here you get to experience the environment in its purest form. The up to one-hour swims at each cenote give you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the cool waters.
Another highlight, based on reviews, is the local guide’s knowledge. Alfredo, for example, shares insights about Mayan culture and history, making the trip more meaningful than just a swim in natural waters.
The delicious meal in San Antonio Mulix adds a cultural and culinary dimension, making the trip feel well-rounded.
However, keep in mind that cenote tickets are not included in the price. So, you’ll need to budget extra for entry. Also, the lunch is not included either, but there’s flexibility—you can bring your own snacks or sit down for a regional meal.
Since the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, it’s worth noting if someone in your group has mobility issues. The focus is mainly on walking, swimming, and sitting in shaded areas.
Pricing and Value

At $272 for a group of up to three, this tour offers a good value for a private, personalized experience. When you consider the private transport, guide, and exclusive access to these serene cenotes, it’s a fair price, especially compared to larger group tours which often feel rushed or crowded.
You’re paying for the quality of the environment and the intimacy of a private tour. If you’re someone who values undisturbed natural beauty over a packed schedule, this price point makes sense.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience will resonate most with travelers seeking peace and authenticity, particularly those who love nature and cultural experiences. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a relaxed, personal day exploring hidden cenotes.
It’s also a good pick if you want to avoid commercialized tourist spots and instead enjoy a genuine connection to the environment. If you’re traveling with kids, keep in mind that swimming and walking are involved, so it’s better suited for those comfortable in water and on their feet.
The Sum Up

If your idea of a memorable Yucatán adventure involves avoiding crowds, discovering untouched natural beauty, and enjoying local flavors, this tour has a lot to offer. The private setup ensures a personalized experience, and the focus on serene, non-commercialized cenotes means you’ll likely leave feeling refreshed and relaxed.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate authenticity and tranquility in their outdoor experiences. While it does require a bit of planning for extra costs like tickets and lunch, the overall experience offers genuine value for those seeking a peaceful day in nature.
For anyone looking to escape the hustle and find that quiet spot in the Yucatán, this tour could be a perfect choice. Just remember to bring your swim gear, some pesos, and an open mind ready to enjoy some of the region’s best-kept secrets.
Discover the Serenity: A Tour of the Hidden Cenotes (PVT)
FAQ

Are the cenote tickets included in the price?
No, the tour price does not cover cenote entrance fees. You’ll need to purchase tickets separately, so budget accordingly.
Can I bring my own food or snacks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food or snacks. There are shaded palapa areas near the cenotes perfect for a picnic.
How long do we spend at each cenote?
You’ll enjoy up to one hour at each cenote, which gives enough time for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves swimming and walking, so it’s generally better suited for older children comfortable in water and outdoor environments. It’s not explicitly family-focused.
What language does the guide speak?
The tour includes guides who speak both English and Spanish, so communication should be smooth.
What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing.
If you’re after a quiet, authentic peek into Yucatán’s natural world, this tour offers a chance to enjoy some of the region’s most peaceful cenotes—without the crowds and commercial hype. Just pack your swimsuit, some pesos, and a sense of adventure to unwind in these hidden treasures.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Yucatan
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- Celestún Flamingos, Beach, and Seafood Tour, leaving from Merida
- From Mérida: Visit an emblematic hacienda, enjoy its cenote
- Yucatan: Cenotes and ATV Jungle Adventure
- From Merida: Valladolid & Ek Balam Guided Tour with Transfer
- Merida: Yucatan Cenotes and Hacienda Full-Day Trip with Food
- Desde Mérida: Haciendas de Yucatán
