Yucatán is a truly complete tourist destination. No matter your exploration style, Yucatán certainly has at least one perfect option for you. Here are a few ideas to get your adventure started.
Ecotourism for all ages
The trend toward sustainable and ethical tourism is no novelty. The availability of these types of destinations is growing constantly worldwide, and Yucatán is right there leading the way. For those who prefer to enjoy our state’s natural and cultural richness with an eco-friendly focus, we suggest two attractive, family-friendly options. Alone or combined, they will be memories you will cherish for life.
Yokdzonot: A cenote revived by a Maya community
Whether you are on your way to Chichén Itzá or simply looking to escape the city for a while, the community of Yokdzonot offers fun activities centered around its stunning cenote.
This destination is managed by the Zaaz Koolen Haá community cooperative, which has dedicated itself since 2005 to restoring a once-abandoned cenote. Yokdzonot invites you to delve into the local ecosystem and Maya culture with the people who live there.
Getting there is easy: Taking the (no-toll) Mérida-Valladolid highway, you will pass right through the center of the town, a few kilometers before reaching Pisté. The cenote is located just a couple of blocks from the main park. Access costs $100 pesos for Mexicans and $200 pesos for foreigners.
Activities and prices at Yokdzonot
Admire the view of the striking open cenote, 30 meters (98 ft) in diameter, before descending the stairs to cool off in its waters. The most adventurous in your group can try the zipline or go rappelling from 18 meters high ($100 pesos per activity, per person).
Once you work up an appetite, head to the restaurant to recharge with delicious regional dishes. This is also run by the cooperative and is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
If you wish to spend more time in the serenity of the jungle, the cenote has several platforms for camping and access to restrooms with showers for a rate of $350 pesos for two people.
Calle 20 x 27 y 29, Yokdzonot, Yucatán
Tel. 999 149 99315
Izamal: Aldea Toktli, innovation and Maya tradition
Another ecotourism alternative is Aldea Toktli, located on the outskirts of Izamal. This makes for an excellent place to stay (or just stop by) during your visit to the "Yellow City." Inspired by the innovation, functionality, and coolness of the traditional Maya house, the aldea (village) is made up of a cluster of sustainably built cabins, primarily using recycled materials or materials taken from the earth.
Travel back in time to the Yucatán of the past and contribute to the mission of reducing our ecological footprint by staying in one of their rustic cabins, surrounded by native vegetation. If you’re looking for a shorter visit, join their guided activities instead, where you will learn about the regeneration principles their initiative proposes. Explore the facilities of this entirely ecological hotel and Maya house museum, learning how its design compares to those of ancient Maya communities.
Discover the ancestral construction techniques of the region with a fun, immersive activity where you can mix earth with fiber to prepare adobe and place it in the bajareque framework that structures the building. Additionally, Aldea Toktli offers a variety of educational workshops that will keep even the little ones entertained. These include workshops on making artisanal soaps, recycled paper, and natural paints.
For more information on activities, prices, and reservations, visit their website.
Calle 11 x 30, Col. Guadalupe, Izamal, Yucatán
Tel. 55 7430 0168
Adventure tourism:
Underground adventures in Yucatán
Beyond the sea and relaxing days, Yucatán also has an adrenaline-filled side that you can explore with a helmet, a lamp, and a good dose of curiosity: its caves (grutas). Entering one is literally delving into the heart of the state.
Important Note: It’s worth mentioning that these adventures are not for everyone. If you fear the dark, enclosed spaces, or don't like getting dirty, it’s best to leave this one for next time. But if you love adventure and don’t mind getting muddy, you will enjoy it like a kid. Just make sure to wear comfortable clothes (the kind you don't mind ruining), non-slip shoes, and a bottle of water, because the heat inside feels like a natural sauna.
Maxcanú: Grutas Aktún Usil, perfect for beginners
A few minutes from Oxkintok are the Aktún Usil Caves, which in Maya means “cave of the us insect.” They were discovered not that long ago, but they've already earned their fame: inside, there are carved stones, vessels, and well-preserved cave paintings on the ceiling. Among them, you can clearly make out an owl, a two-headed serpent, and even a hummingbird.
Everything points to it having been a sacred place for the Maya, so be respectful; your guide will likely invite you to perform a small protection ceremony before entering.
A plus: If you don't like tight spaces, these caves are ideal for you: the interior is spacious, with ropes to assist in ascending and descending, and plenty of natural light. Of the three options, this is undoubtedly the most beginner-friendly.
Since they are not fully explored, you can only enter accompanied by local guides, such as Víctor Chim (WA 997 113 3910) or Lourdes Canché (WA 999 214 1342).
And while it sounds obvious, it bears repeating: do not touch or take anything. Every vessel, every carved stone, and every drawing tells a story that deserves to remain there, intact.
Grutas Aktún Usil
Carretera Federal 180 - 108, Autopista Campeche Mérida km 108
Tel. 999 214 1342
FB: AKTUN USIL
Tekax: Gruta Chocantes, adrenaline and panoramic views
In Tekax, one of Yucatán's Magical Towns, you'll find Gruta Chocantes, an experience well worth it if you're looking for a little more adrenaline and gorgeous views. Its name is a bit of a joke, as “chocante” refers to a person nobody likes, which, legend goes, was the case with the family that once owned it.
Unlike much of Yucatán, in Tekax there are hills here, which gives it a special charm: in addition to the underground route, there is a viewpoint with an impressive panorama of the Puuc Hills, trails for hiking, and even the highest zipline in the state, from which you can launch traditionally... or in a hammock (yes, you read that right).
But the truly amazing part is inside the cave: Chocantes stands out for its formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and shimmering cascades of calcium carbonate, which have earned it the nickname "the cave of crystals." It is massive (about 8 km long). Although there are sections where you have to crouch or squeeze through narrow spaces, the guides are incredibly attentive, they adapt to the group's rhythm, and share fascinating details about the formations and the animals that live there.
The experience includes everything you need: parking, restrooms, changing rooms, adventure equipment, and hydration. You only need to bring comfortable clothes, a good attitude, and a desire to enjoy one of the most exciting adventures in southern Yucatán.
Tel. 997 117 2756
IG: grutachocantes
FB: Gruta chocantes
Tecoh: Grutas de Tzabnah, a challenge
Just 35 minutes from Mérida, the Grutas de Tzabnah (Tzabnah Caves) offer an intense and deeply fascinating experience. From the moment you arrive, you know it's no ordinary walk: you receive your helmet and lamp, and you're ready to start the adventure.
The entrance is a small opening in the earth that takes you several meters below the ground. With every step, the daylight fades until you are enveloped in total darkness.
Tzabnah means “palace of the king” in Maya, and the name fits perfectly. Throughout the route, which lasts about an hour and a half, you will see thirteen cenotes of different sizes, fossil shells embedded in the stone, and rock formations that the guides have named for their peculiar shapes: the Tree of Life, Our Lady of Candelaria, the Cathedral Dome, the Hand of God... and several others you can baptize in your head.
You have to earn the final view, though. The path requires stamina: in some sections, you will have to duck, crawl, or even drag yourself a bit. But it will all be worth it when you reach the last cenote, a massive mirror of crystal-clear waters where the swim will feel like pure glory.
The cave is managed by the local community and is part of a community tourism project focused on minimizing environmental impact. And heads up: entering without a guide is extremely dangerous. Don't try to be brave; a local guide is mandatory, and you will find them right at the entrance.
Grutas de Tzabnah
Abdon Pool: WA 999 995 2185
FB: Grutas Tzabnah
Every day, 9 am - 4 pm
Admission fee: $100 pesos
A final thought on Yucatán’s caves
Caves are places that invite you to slow down, move carefully, and listen. Down there, the air changes; everything sounds louder, more alive. Yes, it's tiring, but it's also one of those experiences that rewards you with unique sights and the feeling of being exactly where you are supposed to be. And when you emerge covered in mud and feeling sore, you’ll look at your sneakers and say, "It was totally worth it."
Relaxation tourism:
The serenity of eastern Yucatán
Sometimes, all you are looking for in a getaway or vacation is simply to exist: to disconnect your mind from the daily grind, enjoy a relaxed morning, get lost in a good book, or simply enjoy the breeze as you watch time pass. For this type of outing, eastern Yucatán is the perfect choice.
Espita: A relaxed Magical Town
The essence of Espita as a Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) might simply be the fact that Espita remains a truly authentic Yucatecan town. Here you have the opportunity to travel back in time to an era where the daily rush belongs more to those trying to choose the prettiest vegetables at the market than to those rushing to get to their office job.
The hotels you will find in Espita are designed with relaxation in mind. They all incorporate the feel of the charming old colonial houses they are built in, with a touch of luxury and modernity that makes them practically a refuge from the outside world.
Río Lagartos: At peace with nature
The small coastal town of Río Lagartos is the perfect place to lie in a hammock and forget the world. Let yourself be woken up by the song of the hundreds of birds that make the Estuary (Ría) their home. Walk the boardwalk and breathe in the peace of the town. Visit Cenote Chiquilá and admire the view from the lookout.
Ready to change the pace? Head out on a boat tour of the Estuary, or visit the nearby towns of San Felipe, Cancunito beach, or the pink lagoons of Las Coloradas. Here, rushing doesn't exist; life moves at the rhythm you choose to set.
Cultural Tourism:
Southern Yucatán awaits
If you are the type of traveler who abhors tourist traps and seeks the most authentic experiences in every destination you visit, Yucatán has several options that will certainly deliver, especially in the southern part of the state.
Maní: A Magical Town that opens Its doors
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You might think that Maní, one of the most visited Magical Towns in Yucatán, has fallen into the very common temptation of becoming something it’s not, but you would be wrong. What Maní has achieved is opening its doors: the doors of its embroidery workshops, its kitchens, and its former Convent, to let visitors experience the magic that lives there.
Want to step inside? There are countless options. If you are interested in art, history, or architecture, you cannot miss the tour of the Church and former Convent of San Miguel Arcángel. If you want to learn about the richness of the artisanal embroidery, you can visit the modest but beautiful Embroidery Museum located next to the Municipal Palace.
If you want to experience for yourself the deep satisfaction of preparing a family dish using traditional methods, sign up to learn how to make, for example, a delicious puchero at the Tuch Kaaj restaurant, or a mukbilpollo (a very special tamal) in Lolbéh Valle Uc’s kitchen and restaurant. No matter which you choose, it will surely leave your heart full and the satisfaction of taking a piece of authentic Maní with you.
Restaurante Tuch Kaaj
Calle 31 x 22 y 24, Col. San Isidro, Maní
Mon. - Sat., 12 - 5 pm, a reservation is required before the workshop
Tel. 997 114 6086
FB: Tuuch Kaaj
María Lolbéh Valle Uc
Calle 27 por 28 y 26, Centro, Maní
Cel. 997 166 4565
Xocén: The center of the Maya world
Xocén is famous for many reasons: its indigenous theater, its bleeding book, its stone cross... Indeed, Xocén is called the center of the Maya world for a reason. If you truly want to immerse yourself in the essence of Yucatán, Xocén is one of the best options available to you.
However, a pertinent clarification is in order: Xocén is not a good place to explore on your own or with an outside guide. To truly know Xocén, you will need a local guide.
My experience in Xocén was guided by Miguel Nahuat, founder of Xocen Birding Trail. As the name of his venture suggests, Miguel is an outstanding nature guide, who will take you along the town's paths and show you all sorts of winged treasures hidden in plain sight. But as a proud Xocenense, Miguel also opens the doors of his home to cook with his family, either over the three-stone hearth or in the píib (underground oven) he has in his yard. And, if you wish, Miguel can also accompany you to see the Church of the Holy Cross of Xocén, a site of devotion where the line between the Catholic faith and ancient Maya beliefs completely disappears.
The Church of the Holy Cross of Xocén is a sacred site. I cannot stress enough the importance of visiting with a local guide who can direct you to be respectful and avoid any kind of misunderstanding with the parishioners.
Xocén Birding Trail
Tel. 985 211 7068
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 456, in December 2025.
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