Oxkintok ancient Puuc + Becal Jipi Japa artisan + Cenote

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines history, culture, and a bit of relaxation, this tour in Yucatán might just be worth considering. While I haven’t taken it myself, I’ve studied the details carefully, and it sounds like a solid way to get a taste of authentic Mayan heritage, alongside some local craftsmanship and a refreshing dip in a cenote.

What really stands out to me are the guided tours of Oxkintok, an archaeological site still revealing its secrets, and the visit to Becal, where artisans show their traditional skills. Plus, the opportunity to swim in a cenote adds a perfect break from the heat. That said, it’s a pretty full day with a lot packed in—so if you’re not big on long walks or structured schedules, this might feel a bit intense.

One thing to keep in mind is the additional costs for entrance tickets and food, which aren’t included in the price. Also, the tour involves about 1.30 hours of walking in Oxkintok, so good shoes and a comfortable attitude are a must. This experience seems best suited for travelers who love history, enjoy local craftsmanship, and want a mix of outdoor fun and cultural learning.

Key Points

• Well-rounded day trip with archaeology, artisan visits, and cenote swimming
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights about Mayan history
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vans makes the long day manageable
• Extra costs like entrance fees and food are not included, so budget accordingly
• The tour is quite active with walking and swimming, so prepare physically
• Suitable for those who want a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Oxkintok: A Mystical Mayan City

The tour kicks off with a visit to Oxkintok, a site that’s still revealing its mysteries. Our guide explained that Oxkintok is thought to be the birthplace of the Puuc architectural style, characterized by ornate masks and detailed facades seen on many buildings. You’ll spend about 1.30 hours here, wandering through ruins where every stone seems to whisper stories of ancient times.

What makes Oxkintok particularly interesting is that it’s still being explored. This means some areas remain off-limits or are under excavation, which adds a sense of discovery to the visit. We loved the way the guide brought the ruins to life, highlighting how Oxkintok influenced nearby cities like Uxmal, Kabah, and Sayil.

The walk itself is about 1.5 hours, so wearing comfortable shoes is a good idea. Our guide emphasized the importance of respecting the site, especially as some parts are still uncovered, making the experience both educational and a bit like stepping into a live archaeological project.

What to Expect at Oxkintok

Expect a guided walk through the ruins, where your guide will point out architectural features and explain their significance. You’ll notice the early Puuc decoration with masks and intricate facade designs that hint at the city’s importance. The quiet of the site and the shade from the trees make it a pleasant walk, but don’t expect crowds or fuss—this is a more intimate encounter with history.

Visiting Becal: Home of Jipi Japa Artisans

Next, the tour takes you to Becal, a small town renowned for its traditional palm fiber craftsmanship. Here, a local family opens their workshop, giving visitors a front-row seat to the process of making Jipi Japa hats and other fine items. We loved the authenticity of this part of the trip—seeing artisans at work, with their skill passed down through generations.

You’ll spend about 1.30 hours here, during which you can observe the intricate work involved in transforming raw palm leaves into beautiful, functional hats and garments. If you’re into crafts or want to pick up a unique souvenir, this would be the perfect spot to browse or even buy something directly from the artisans.

Our guide explained that Becal’s Jipi Japa hats are highly prized, and watching the craftsmanship really deepens your appreciation for this traditional art. It’s a slow, patient process, and the artisans are proud of their heritage.

What to Expect at Becal

Walking into the workshop, you’ll see artisans weaving, shaping, and finishing hats. The family will explain the techniques and the significance of their craft. This part offers a meaningful connection to local culture beyond tourist souvenirs, making it a highlight for anyone interested in authentic traditions.

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Cooling Off in the Cenote: A Perfect End

After a day of walking and exploring, it’s time to relax at Cenote San Ignacio. The cenote is a natural pool with clear, cool waters—a true sanctuary from the Yucatán heat. The facilities include lounge chairs, a restaurant (food and drinks are not included), bathrooms, and showers, making it a comfortable spot to unwind.

We loved how refreshing the swim was after a busy day. The water’s temperature is just right for cooling down, and the setting—surrounded by lush greenery—is peaceful and scenic. Use of a life vest is mandatory, which is reassuring if you’re a bit nervous swimming in open water.

The two-hour stop here also includes some time to enjoy a meal or a cold drink, although you’ll need to pay separately at the cenote restaurant. It’s a nice chance to relax, chat about the day, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

What to Expect at the Cenote

Expect a tranquil environment with plenty of lounge space. The cenote’s calm waters are perfect for a leisurely swim, but remember that it’s not a deep dive kind of place—more of a refresh and relax spot.

Practical Details and What to Keep in Mind

The entire tour lasts about 8.5 hours, with transportation included in a round-trip air-conditioned vehicle. The schedule is quite packed, so plan to start early and wear comfortable shoes. The pickup in Mérida is about 40 minutes before the tour begins, and you’ll be contacted the night before with the exact timing.

Pricing is quite reasonable at $109 per person, but be aware that admission fees for Oxkintok ($95 pesos) and the cenote ($350 pesos) are paid separately. Food and drinks at the cenote restaurant are also not included, so budget for that depending on your appetite.

The tour is guided in both English and Spanish, and the guides are described as knowledgeable—one traveler praising Vincent, specifically, as “absolutely brilliant.” That level of expertise definitely enriches the experience, especially at the archaeological site and artisan workshop.

Important to Know Before Booking

• Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection—hat, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen.
• Bring cash for additional expenses.
• Pack a change of clothes, towel, and wetsuit if you plan to swim comfortably.
• The tour involves a 1.30-hour walk, so pack accordingly.
• Not suitable for children under 2, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience offers a well-balanced mix of history, craftsmanship, and nature. If you’re curious about Mayan culture and archaeological sites, Oxkintok will give you a quieter, more personal look than some of the more popular ruins. The artisan visit is a fantastic way to support local crafts and gain insight into traditional Yucatecan skills.

The cenote provides a much-needed cooling break and a fun way to end the day. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy being active but also love relaxing in beautiful natural spots. The guides seem knowledgeable and engaging, which makes the whole day more meaningful.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility issues, some parts of the tour—like the walk in Oxkintok—might be a bit demanding. Also, keep in mind additional costs for entrance fees and meals.

All in all, this tour is an excellent choice for culture lovers, history buffs, and those wanting a mix of outdoor adventure and culture. It offers enough variety to keep everyone engaged without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned van is part of the package, with round-trip service from Mérida.

How long is the walk at Oxkintok?
You’ll walk approximately 1.30 hours around the archaeological site, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks at the cenote restaurant are paid separately, but a cooler with bottled water is provided during the day.

What are the extra costs?
You’ll need to pay separately for Oxkintok entrance ($95 pesos) and the cenote entrance ($350 pesos).

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 or those with mobility issues due to the walking involved and swimming requirements.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a change of clothes, towel, cash, and possibly a wetsuit if you want extra comfort swimming in the cenote.

This tour offers a genuine look into local culture, ancient history, and natural beauty—great for travelers eager to see a different side of Yucatán. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, craft lover, or just need a refreshing swim, it hits many marks. Just be prepared for a full, active day and budget for a few extras.

You can check availability for your dates here: