A Seven Day Stay: Dzibilchaltún, Chocholá, Halachó, and Celestún

Monday

Get your week off to a great start with breakfast at Cuna, and from there get out and discover everything the city offers; the Visit Mérida app is a great guide to explore. At the end of the day, head to The Harbor mall to see how our history extends into the future, and enjoy one of their many culinary options, like Maya de Asia or Cervo.

Tuesday

Explore the archeological site of Dzibilchaltún, north of Mérida; in addition to both Maya and colonial structures, you’ll see a lovely open cenote. Afterward, Casa de Piedra at Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana awaits an unforgettable meal; ask your waiter to sign you up for a tour of the facilities when you’re about to finish your meal.

Wednesday

Today we’re off to Chocholá. On the way, stop to gaze at the imposing former convent and parish of Saint Francis of Assisi, in Umán. Once in Chocholá, visit Cenote San Ignacio, and then have lunch at either the local Parador Turístico or the restaurant Ixi’im within the Chablé hotel. For lodging, you’ll find several options on Airbnb.

Thursday

Next stop: Halachó. Your day will be devoted to the activities at Ya’axche, whether you want to learn to cook a traditional dish yourself or just find out how it’s done. If you’re looking for a different accommodation option, ask about camping at the site when you book in advance.

Friday

Today we’re making a stop at the Aktun Usil caves; there, you’ll see a number of Maya artifacts discovered in this several-meter-deep cave. When you finish the tour, choose between lunch at Restaurante Oxkintok (also in Maxcanú) or going straight to the next destination: the port of Celestún.

Saturday

Embark on a boating tour down the Ría (estuary) early, so you can see as many birds as possible; the pink flamingos will be the cherry on top. After visiting the water spring and the petrified mangrove forest (included in your tour), join a safari to discover the nighttime fauna found around our coast.

Sunday

Today will be a lazy-ish day at the beach. Enjoy the beauty of the emerald coast, its cool water, and white sand. When hunger strikes, choose one of the many restaurants on the beach, and then go back to enjoying the beach. If you’re tired of unwinding, rent a bicycle and explore the village—just make sure to catch the sunset.