Oxkintok ancient Puuc + Becal Jipi Japa artisan + Cenote

If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic look at some of the Yucatán Peninsula’s cultural treasures and natural wonders, this tour offers a compelling choice. It combines the mystery of Oxkintok, a less-visited yet fascinating Mayan site, with a peek into traditional artisan craftsmanship in Becal, plus a refreshing swim in a cenote. The experience promises a full day, about 8.5 hours, packed with history, local craftsmanship, and natural beauty.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are two standout features: the guided exploration of Oxkintok, where you’ll see the early signs of the Puuc style, and the opportunity to observe and learn from artisans making Jipi Japa hats—a craft with deep roots in local tradition. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the walking involved—about 1.5 hours at Oxkintok—so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet. This tour is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of archaeological sites, authentic local crafts, and natural refreshment away from crowded hotspots.

Key Points

• Authentic archaeological experience at Oxkintok, with expert guides revealing its mysteries
• Insight into traditional artisan crafts in Becal, witnessing the Jipi Japa hat-making process
• Relaxing swim in a cenote, with facilities for comfort and a chance to cool off
• Cost-effective value with transportation, guide service, and artisan visit included
• Family-friendly activity (children under 12 are free at Oxkintok, and under 12 pay less at the cenote)
• Limited walking in Oxkintok, making it accessible for most and allowing focus on key sites

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour offers a well-structured itinerary that balances cultural discovery, hands-on artisan experience, and natural relaxation. Starting from Mérida, a comfortable air-conditioned van whisks you away on a roughly 40-minute drive to Oxkintok. Here, the guided tour lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll walk through a site still revealing its secrets. Oxkintok isn’t as famous as Uxmal or Chichen Itza, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a place where parts of the site remain unexcored, giving you a sense of being a true explorer.

The architecture at Oxkintok is particularly notable for its early Puuc elements—masks and intricate facade decorations. Your guide will point out features like the masks, which hint at the religious and ceremonial significance of the city. The site is thought to have played a pivotal role in spreading the Puuc architectural style, influencing other important centers in the region. The relatively short walk means you can better appreciate these details without feeling rushed or overly tired.

After soaking in the history, you’ll hop back into the van for a 35-minute drive to Becal. This is where the experience turns more tactile and cultural. Becal is renowned for its family of artisans, who open their workshop doors to show how palm fibers are transformed into the famous Jipi Japa hats and fine garments. About 1.5 hours are dedicated to this stop, which feels like a genuine peek into local life. Watching artisans skillfully weave and shape palm leaves reveals a craft passed down through generations—a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural traditions.

The final highlight of the day is a visit to Cenote San Ignacio, about 40 minutes away. The setting is idyllic—a natural sinkhole filled with crystal-clear waters, perfect for cooling off after a warm day of exploration. Facilities such as lounge chairs, a restaurant, bathrooms, and showers make this a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely swim. Entrance fee is modest, and you can choose to buy food or drinks at the on-site restaurant if you wish. The swim itself is a highlight for many, offering a refreshing break from the heat.

Transportation and Comfort

Transportation is provided in a round-trip, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day more comfortable. The tour has a small-group vibe, which allows for a more intimate experience, and guides are bilingual—Spanish and English. The inclusion of bottled water and umbrellas shows attention to traveler comfort. Pickup is arranged from Mérida hotels, with specific times communicated in advance.

Value for Money

At $109 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the transportation, guided explanations, artisan demonstration, and cenote access. Entrance fees to Oxkintok and the cenote are not included but are reasonably priced and easy to pay on-site. The tour strikes a balance—you’re not just paying for transport, but for a well-rounded cultural day that includes both learning and leisure.

What Travelers Are Saying

With a perfect rating of 5/5 from two reviews, travelers seem pleased with this experience. One review from a traveler in the UK praises the “amazing day out” and highlights that their guide, Vincent, was “absolutely brilliant.” The guides’ knowledge and friendliness make a real difference, making the story of Oxkintok come alive and enhancing your understanding of the sites.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Perfect Audience for This Tour

If you enjoy discovering lesser-known archaeological sites without the crowds, this tour is ideal. It’s suited for those who appreciate local crafts and want to see authentic artisan work firsthand. The natural cenote provides a great way to cool off, so it’s perfect for warm days. It’s also suitable for families, as long as children are comfortable with walking and swimming, though it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or very young children under 2.

For travelers seeking a relaxed, educational, and scenic day, this experience offers genuine insight into the Mayan region’s cultural and natural heritage. If you want a taste of archaeology, craftsmanship, and nature—without overextending yourself—it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This tour combines the allure of Mayapan’s early Puuc architecture with the authenticity of Becal’s artisan workshops and the refreshment of swimming in a cenote. It’s a well-balanced day that offers a chance to see and experience different facets of Yucatán life—ancient and modern, natural and crafted. The guided approach ensures you’ll gain meaningful insights, and the small-group setting keeps it intimate and engaging.

For those who value authentic experiences, enjoy learning about local craftsmanship, and love the idea of cooling off in a beautiful cenote, this tour hits all those marks. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized day filled with discovery and relaxation. The price point reflects good value given the diverse activities and included transportation, making it an attractive option for a day outside Mérida.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Mérida.

How long is the walk at Oxkintok?
The guided tour of Oxkintok lasts about 1.5 hours, involving a walk that allows you to see the main structures and decorations.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees to Oxkintok and the cenote are paid separately—around 95 pesos for Oxkintok and 350 pesos for the cenote.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, change of clothes, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, cash, and potentially a wetsuit if you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 pay a discounted rate at the cenote, and children under 12 are free at Oxkintok. However, the walking and swimming parts may not suit very young children or those with mobility issues.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 8.5 hours, starting early and ending back in Mérida.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there food included?
No, meals are not included at the cenote restaurant, but you can purchase food and drinks there.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
History buffs, craft lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a mix of learning and relaxing in beautiful surroundings.

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into the cultural and natural riches of Yucatán, making it a rewarding choice for travelers looking for an active yet laid-back day with meaningful sights and experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: