Tour Valladolid, Cenote Suytun and Cenote Oxman from Mérida

If you’re planning a trip to the Yucatán Peninsula and want a well-rounded day that combines breathtaking natural sights with some local culture, this Valladolid, Cenote Suytun, and Cenote Oxman tour might be just what you need. While I haven’t done the tour myself, I’ve researched it thoroughly and talked with travelers who have, and what stands out is how much value this experience offers for the price.

What I love about this tour is how everything is included—tickets, a hearty buffet meal, and drinks—meaning less fuss and more time enjoying the sights. Plus, the guides seem genuinely friendly and knowledgeable, making it easier to relax and soak everything in. A small caveat is that the day is long, and some travelers mentioned that the guided tour of Valladolid felt a bit rushed, especially if you prefer to explore on your own. Still, this tour suits those who want a convenient, comprehensive experience with a focus on natural beauty and culture, all within a comfortable group setting.

If you’re okay with a full day on the go, enjoy beautiful scenery, and appreciate having everything organized for you, then this trip could be a winner. It’s especially well suited to travelers who love snapping photos, learning about local sites, and sampling delicious food without the hassle of planning each detail.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Tickets, buffet lunch, drinks, transportation, and guided commentary make this a straightforward choice.
• Stunning Cenotes: The tour visits two very different cenotes—one underground with stalactites and the other an open-air crystal-clear water spot.
• Cultural Exploration: The visit to Valladolid offers a taste of colonial charm, with notable sites like the Cathedral and San Bernardino de Siena.
• Well-Organized Schedule: Expect a full day from early morning to evening, with smooth transitions between stops.
• Group Size & Comfort: Limited to 19 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Customer Praise: Consistently high reviews, especially praising guides and the overall flow.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Itinerary

Starting Off Early and Punctual Pickup

The day kicks off at 7:00 am from Mérida, with pickup arranged from Viajes Colibrí Yucatán Tours. Punctuality is key—most travelers find the meeting points convenient, and the small group size contributes to a relaxed atmosphere. The transportation is equipped with a cooler for drinks, which is a thoughtful touch, especially on a hot day.

Visiting Suytun Cenote: A Photo Wonder

The first highlight is Suytun Cenote, known for its natural vault with holes letting sunlight pour in, creating the perfect backdrop for photos. This cenote is a bit unique because it’s an underground cave with shallow water, making swimming accessible and safe for most. The inclusion of life jackets and snorkel masks means you can float and explore comfortably. Expect about 1.5 hours here, giving enough time to take in the views, snap photos, or dip your toes in the cool water.

One traveler described it as “impressive” and appreciated the helpful guides who took photos of them, which is a lovely perk. The natural lighting and stalactites make this spot stand out as one of the most photogenic cenotes in the region.

Moving to Cenote Oxman in Valladolid

Next up is Oxman Cenote, famous for its crystal-clear waters and open-air setting. Located in Hacienda San Lorenzo, it offers a different vibe—more spacious and bright. Similar to Suytun, you get a life jacket and snorkel mask, and the water here is renowned for its clarity, perfect for swimming or just relaxing on the dock. The stay here is also about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery.

Multiple reviews highlighted how diverse these cenotes are—”The Suytun and Oxman cenotes are very different but both offer great experiences in their own way,” one reviewer noted. This variety ensures you’re not just looking at the same kind of water hole all day.

The Hearty Buffet at Hacienda Oxman

After all the swimming and photos, the tour includes a buffet meal at the Hacienda Oxman restaurant. The meal is described as delicious, featuring local flavors, along with refillable flavored water. This is a nice touch, giving you a break and a chance to chat with other travelers or simply unwind.

Discovering Valladolid’s Colonial Charm

The afternoon is spent in Valladolid, a town full of colonial architecture and history. The guide takes you through highlights like the Municipal Palace, San Bernardino de Siena Convent, and San Servacio Parish Church. You’re given about 1.5 hours to explore, which is enough to snap some photos, wander leisurely, and soak in the atmosphere.

One reviewer praised this part, saying, “Incredible cenotes and guide. I enjoyed it very much, Valladolid a magical town.” Others mentioned that the town’s charm is real, with a feeling of stepping back in time, especially with its colorful buildings and well-preserved landmarks.

Returning to Mérida

The day wraps up with transportation back to Mérida, arriving around 7 pm. The group size remains small, and the journey is smooth, with plenty of time to reflect on the day.

The Practicalities and What They Mean for You

Duration and Timing

The entire experience lasts roughly 12 hours, starting at 7 am and ending around 7 pm. That means a full day out, but the schedule is well-paced. Starting early helps you avoid crowds at the cenotes and allows a relaxed approach to each stop.

Cost and Value

Priced at around $76.67 per person, this covers tickets, lunch, drinks, transport, and a guide. When you consider how much is included—especially the entrance fees and buffet—it offers solid value. Traveling with a guided group also means you won’t have to worry about logistics or language barriers, which is a big plus for many.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 19 travelers, the group is intimate enough to foster a friendly vibe while still being manageable. Guides, like Jorge and Pedro, get high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, which elevates the entire experience. Several reviews mentioned how helpful and kind the guides are, making the day more enjoyable.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

The tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level, with some walking involved around Valladolid and at the cenotes. It isn’t suited for those with walking problems. Remember to wear water shoes, comfortable clothing, and bring a towel and swimsuit if you intend to swim. Since the tour involves outdoor activities, expect some sun and heat.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect. Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, with comments like “Pedro and Jorge were amazing,” and their attentiveness, especially in taking photos and explaining sites. The cenotes themselves wowed visitors—“both offer great experiences in their own way,” noted one reviewer.

Food and drinks were a hit, with several mentioning the delicious buffet and the convenience of having everything organized. The town visit also received positive remarks, with many describing Valladolid as a “magical town” that’s worth exploring.

A couple of points raised include a desire for more guided time in Valladolid, rather than free exploration, and some found the day a bit long, especially if you prefer a slower pace.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This tour is best suited for those who want a hassle-free day combining natural beauty and cultural sights with a reliable, organized approach. It’s ideal if you enjoy exploring cenotes and don’t mind a busy schedule that packs in a lot in one day. The inclusion of tickets, meals, and transport means you won’t have to worry about planning logistics yourself, giving you more time to enjoy the experience.

If you’re comfortable with walking and outdoor activities, and you’re interested in experiencing two very different cenotes along with a charming town, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The reviews suggest that guides truly enhance the day, making it engaging and fun, especially if you appreciate friendly, knowledgeable hosts.

On the downside, if you prefer free time at each stop or a more relaxed pace, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Also, it’s a full 12-hour day, so be prepared for an early start and a late return.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Mérida is included, making the day smooth and stress-free.

What’s the cost of the tour? The tour costs around $76.67 per person, which covers tickets, lunch, drinks, and guide services.

Are the cenotes suitable for swimming? Absolutely. Both cenotes—Suytun and Oxman—offer opportunities for swimming, with life jackets and snorkel masks provided.

How long is the tour? Expect about 12 hours, from 7 am to around 7 pm, including travel time and all stops.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with walking problems? It’s recommended for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Not ideal for those with walking difficulties, as some walking around Valladolid and at the cenotes is involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refundable.

Wrapping up, this tour offers a well-rounded way to experience some of Yucatán’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. It’s especially good for those who want to see natural wonders, explore a charming town, and enjoy local food—all in one day. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this trip seems to deliver a memorable snapshot of the region’s beauty and history.