Tour to Uxmal + Choco Story Chocolate Museum

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Mérida that combines history, culture, and a touch of indulgence, this tour to Uxmal and the Yucatán Choco Story Museum might just be your perfect match. It offers a chance to walk through the ancient ruins of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and then switch gears to learn all about cacao and its journey through centuries. Whether you’re a history buff, a chocolate lover, or simply curious about the region’s traditions, this experience has enough to captivate different kinds of travelers.

What really draws us in about this tour are two standout features. First, the expert guidance—the reviews consistently praise their guides for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, which can make even the most familiar ruins feel fresh. Second, the interactive Chocolate Museum adds a fun, tactile aspect that helps you connect with the sweet side of Yucatán’s culture.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the additional entrance fees for Uxmal and the museum, which aren’t included in the price. This can bump up the overall cost, especially if you’re traveling with children. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of learning and exploring at a comfortable pace, and who don’t mind the extra cash for entrance tickets.

If you’re after a well-organized day with a knowledgeable guide, and want to see both ancient Mayan ruins and learn about chocolate’s history, this tour could be a great choice. Just be ready for about 10 hours on the go, with some waiting around for tickets and transitions.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip covering Uxmal’s ruins and the Chocolate Museum in Merida
• Expert guides receive high praise for their knowledge and storytelling skills
• Additional entrance fees are not included and add to the overall cost
• Flexible itinerary with around 2 hours at Uxmal and 1 hour at the museum
• Value for history and culture enthusiasts who want a guided, informative experience
• Good for travelers comfortable with a full day of activity (roughly 10 hours)

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Meeting in Mérida and the Journey to Uxmal

The tour kicks off early, with a meetup at Starbucks Paseo Montejo at 7:30 am. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a blessing given the Yucatán heat, especially if you’re traveling during warmer months. As you settle in, your guide will likely start sharing some context about the day ahead—what Uxmal is known for, its significance, and what to look out for during the visit.

Uxmal: A Majestic Window into the Mayan World

After about a two-hour drive, you’ll arrive at Zona Arqueologica Uxmal, one of the most important Mayan cities. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Uxmal is often compared to Chichen Itza but has its own unique flair, especially with the impressive Puuc architecture.

Here, you can expect to wander around large complexes, observe the intricate stone carvings, and marvel at the Pyramid of the Magician. This site is often lauded for its well-preserved structures and the atmosphere of ancient grandeur. According to reviews, the tour is very well organized, and guides like Glendi do a fantastic job of weaving in engaging stories and historical facts that bring the ruins alive.

A key aspect here is the additional tickets needed for entry—about $700 MXN per adult and $100 MXN per child, payable in cash. So, plan for this extra expense, especially if you’re traveling with family.

What you’ll love: The chance to walk through a UNESCO site with a knowledgeable guide who provides insights you might not find in a guidebook. The structures’ preservation and the detailed carvings make Uxmal a truly memorable visit.

Potential drawback: The entrance fees are not included, which might be inconvenient if you’re trying to keep things simple or budget-conscious. Also, the site can get crowded during peak times, so arriving early helps.

Transition to the Chocolate World: Choco Story Museum

After exploring Uxmal, the tour moves on to the Yucatán Choco Story Museum—a relatively short drive away. The museum offers an interactive glimpse into the history of cacao, from its ancient origins to its modern uses. It’s a treat for anyone interested in food history, or simply those with a sweet tooth.

The visit here lasts about an hour. You’ll learn about how cacao was cultivated, its cultural significance, and even get to see some of the processing methods. Many reviews highlight how engaging the guides are, making the experience both educational and fun.

Why the Chocolate Museum is a Hidden Gem

What sets this experience apart is its hands-on approach. Visitors often find the stories of cacao’s journey fascinating, especially when they see the contrast between the ancient and modern uses. For kids and adults alike, tasting chocolate and understanding its history offers a little extra enjoyment.

Tip: The admission fee for the museum is also not included, and children’s tickets are priced at 200 MXN. Be prepared for these additional costs when budgeting your day.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up back at your original meeting point around 5:30-6:00 pm, depending on the pace and traffic. Overall, it’s a long, full day, but one that’s packed with sights and stories that many find worth the effort.

The Value of the Tour

At $89 per person, the base price seems fair considering the transportation and guide services. When you factor in the entrance fees—roughly $700 MXN for Uxmal and $200 MXN for the museum—the total cost will increase. But many travelers feel that the expert guidance and seamless organization justify it, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of arranging tickets and transportation yourself.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a highlight. They bring the history to life, making the experience more memorable than just wandering around on your own. Plus, the small group size (up to 500 travelers, but typically smaller) keeps things manageable and more personable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you’re interested in history, architecture, and culture, and prefer a guided experience that takes care of logistics. It’s also well-suited for those who want a full-day immersive activity without the hassle of planning every detail.

If you’re traveling with children, be aware of the entrance fees and the full-day schedule. While not explicitly labeled as a family tour, the itinerary’s mix of ruins and engaging museum makes it accessible for most ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fees for Uxmal and the Chocolate Museum are not included. You’ll need to pay approximately $700 MXN for Uxmal and $200 MXN for the museum in cash, or as specified by your guide.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts around 10 hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning around 5:30-6:00 pm, depending on traffic and pace.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as a family experience, the visit to the Chocolate Museum and the ruins can be interesting for kids. Just keep in mind the longer schedule and additional fees.

What makes the guide special?
The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, like Glendi, who provide helpful, engaging commentary that enhances the experience and makes learning about Uxmal and cacao more enjoyable.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking around Uxmal’s ruins and the museum, but it’s generally manageable for most travelers with average mobility.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-structured, guided day trip that combines history, culture, and a sweet surprise, this tour to Uxmal and the Choco Story Museum ticks a lot of boxes. It’s especially appealing if you value having an expert guide to bring the sites to life and prefer the convenience of organized transportation and logistics.

While the additional entrance fees do add to the cost, many travelers find the overall experience to be worth it. The highlights are definitely the knowledgeable guides and the insider look into cacao’s role in local culture and history. Just be prepared for a long day, and some extra cash for tickets.

This experience suits curious travelers who want to learn, explore, and indulge in the stories behind one of Mexico’s most iconic archaeological sites and its beloved chocolate heritage. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour makes for a memorable full-day outing.