Top Merida Day Cruises

Immerse yourself in Mayan culture without getting bogged down planning travel logistics on a full-day tour from Merida. Enjoy a tour of UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza in the early morning, before the crowds arrive and the heat peaks, then tuck into a delicious Mexican buffet lunch. End your day with a swim in a cenote to cool off. Entrance fees, lunch, and round-trip transportation from Merida are included for a seamless day out.

Experience Chichén Itzá and the Yucatán’s cultural highlights without the crowds, logistical planning, or midday heat that can affect independent visits. An early start allows for a quieter exploration of the UNESCO-listed archaeological site and better opportunities for photos. Afterward, unwind at a private family-owned cenote, enjoy homemade Yucatecan cuisine, and stroll the historic streets of Izamal, with all transportation and planning handled for you.

The Yucatan might be most famous for its Maya ruins, but it’s also home to a wealth of natural wonders—if you know where to look. This day trip from Merida whisks you to the remote Las Coloradas, a vivid pink lagoon made for the photos, and the mangroves of Rio Lagartos, where your guide will help you spot flamingos and crocodiles.

Enjoy the Yucatan's top sights in one day on this small-group tour from Merida. Wake up early to visit one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza, before the crowds arrive. Learn about the history, customs, and culture of the ancient Maya, then head to a local cenote for a swim. End your day at Las Coloradas pink lagoon, home to flamingos.

Get acquainted with Yucatecan specialties on this small-group street food tour of Merida. Walk with a local guide to Merida’s main market, a gelato shop, and more. Taste fresh fruit and sample plenty of local dishes, including empanadas, ‘cochinita pibil’ (slow-roasted pork) and ‘panuchos’ (tortillas stuffed with refried black beans). Lunch is seafood (Monday through Saturday) and tacos with marquesitas most Sundays and holidays.

Experience authentic Yucatecan cuisine from market to table during this small-group cooking class in Mérida. Browse Mercado Lucas de Gálvez with your guide to sample local fruits and shop for ingredients like achiote and habanero peppers before heading to a local home to prepare a traditional three-course meal. Vegetarian and vegan options ensure everyone can enjoy this hands-on culinary experience.

Explore the Magic of Celestún by Boat Enjoy a 2-hour boat adventure through the incredible mangrove reserve of Celestún, a protected natural paradise on the Yucatán coast. During the tour, you'll visit: Bird Island – a sanctuary for a wide variety of local and migratory birds. The meeting point of the sea and estuary – where freshwater meets saltwater. The Horseshoe Ruins – a hidden archaeological site. Flamingo viewing area – see these majestic pink birds in their natural habitat. Mangrove tunnel – cruise through lush, narrow waterways. The water hole – a peaceful freshwater spring. Mayan clay bath – apply natural, mineral-rich clay said to rejuvenate the skin. After the boat tour, enjoy free time at the beach to swim, relax, or simply soak up the sun. (3 Hours) Restrooms are available at the pier. Swimsuits are recommended if you'd like to participate in the clay bath or swim at the beach. This experience is perfect for nature lovers, bird watchers, and beachgoers alike.