Tour to Uxmal Kabah and Chocolate Museum from Mérida

Explore Mayan Mysteries and Chocolate Delights: A Complete Review of the Mérida Uxmal, Kabah, and Chocolate Museum Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Mérida, this tour promises a well-rounded day visiting some of the most captivating Mayan archaeological sites along with a sweet twist—an interactive chocolate museum. We’ve looked into this experience, and what stands out are the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see less-crowded but equally stunning ruins like Uxmal and Kabah, plus the fun of tasting Mayan chocolate.

On the flip side, the tour’s duration means a long day, and some travelers have noted that it can feel slightly rushed, especially at the archaeological sites. Still, for those interested in Mayan history, authentic ruins, and discovering the local cacao tradition, this trip offers solid value and a taste of Yucatán’s rich culture. It fits best for curious travelers who appreciate guided insights, good food, and a mix of history and nature.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, bilingual guides enhance the experience with detailed explanations.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Combines ruins, a meal, and a chocolate museum for a diverse day.
• Authentic Sites: Less crowded than some other attractions, offering more intimate explorations.
• Value for Money: The price includes transport, lunch, and the chocolate museum entrance, making it a cost-effective full day.
• Long Duration: About 10 hours, suitable for full-day explorers but may be tiring.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit iconic Puuc style ruins, taste traditional Mayan chocolate, and see rescued wildlife.

A Full Day of Maya Marvels and Chocolate Magic

This tour from Mérida offers a comprehensive look at some of the Yucatán’s most intriguing attractions. For around $65 per person, you get transportation, a guided tour, lunch, and entry to the Chocolate Museum. It’s a package designed to maximize your experience without the hassle of planning each piece yourself.

Starting Point and Transportation

The day kicks off at the Viajes Colibrí Yucatán office at 8:00 am. You’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle with a cooler on board to keep your drinks cold—important since some parts of the day are spent outdoors. The group size is capped at 19 travelers, which helps keep the vibe friendly and allows guides to give more personalized attention.

The ride from Mérida to Uxmal takes about two hours, giving you a chance to settle in and maybe chat with fellow travelers. Some reviews mention moments of confusion at pick-up points, so arriving promptly and confirming your meeting place helps avoid unnecessary stress.

Uxmal: The Architectural Jewel of the Puuc Style

Our first stop is the Uxmal archaeological zone, renowned for its incredible preservation and the intricate architecture of the Puuc style. Expect to walk for around two hours with a guide explaining the significance of key structures like the Magician’s Temple and the Governor’s Palace.

One reviewer describes Uxmal as “truly magical,” praising the stunning architecture and the energy that comes from seeing a site less crowded than Chichen Itza. The Temple of the Magician, in particular, often leaves visitors speechless with its curved facade and detailed stonework.

Because the tour is guided in both Spanish and English, you’ll get plenty of context about the site’s purpose, its role in Mayan society, and the stories behind the stones. Expect some hills and uneven grounds—wear comfortable shoes.

Kabah: The Lesser-Known Treasure

Next, the group heads to Kabah, about an hour and a half away. This site is the second largest in the Puuc region and has a reputation among those who love exploring more off-the-beaten-path ruins. Declared a State Park, Kabah is famous for its elaborate Palace of the Masks and other structures adorned with carved stone faces.

One visitor describes Kabah as a “beautiful and less crowded” site, perfect for those wanting more than just the big-name ruins. The guide’s insights help bring the stones alive, explaining the symbolism and religious importance of the carvings. You’ll spend about an hour and a half here, which is enough to soak in the sights without rushing.

Lunch at Halach Huinic

Midday, everyone heads to Halach Huinic restaurant for a delicious, traditional Yucatán meal. The included lunch features a three-course menu—starter, main, and dessert—giving you a taste of local flavors. Although some reviews mention that the quality varies, most find the meal satisfying and authentic.

A well-organized hour allows for a relaxed break, so you can chat with fellow travelers or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant. Keep in mind that drinks outside the meal are not included, and prices for sodas or other beverages might be higher than expected.

Chocolate Museum: From Cocoa Beans to Confection

The highlight for many is the visit to Choco Story, the interactive chocolate museum. Here, you learn about the origins of cocoa, Mayan preparation methods, and the global journey of chocolate. The museum is walkable and includes botanical gardens with cocoa trees, adding a natural element to the experience.

One review notes, “Seeing spider monkeys and a leopard, and tasting Mayan chocolate” made this stop memorable. The museum offers tasting opportunities, so come hungry for both knowledge and flavor. It’s a great way to connect the historical significance of cacao with a delicious, hands-on experience.

Wildlife and Rescue Center

Adding an ecological dimension, the tour includes a visit to a rescue animal shelter, home to endemic wildlife like monkeys and jaguars. It’s a chance to see conservation efforts firsthand, making this stop both fun and meaningful.

Return to Mérida

The day wraps up with a two-hour drive back to Mérida, typically ending at the same meeting point. Some travelers mention that the return journey can feel long after a full day of sightseeing, but the overall experience tends to be worth it.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

• Duration: Approximately 10 hours, ideal for those ready for a full day of exploration.
• Cost: At $65.52, the tour offers good value considering all included elements—transport, guides, lunch, and museum entry.
• Group Size: Limited to 19 travelers, which helps with personalized attention.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate; expect walking and some uneven terrain. Not recommended for those with walking difficulties.
• What to Bring: Comfortable clothes, light colors, sturdy shoes, and ID if Mexican. Also, bring cash for site entrance fees if applicable, as signal can be weak.

• Extra Costs: Entrance to Uxmal costs MX$581 for foreigners or MX$264 for Mexicans; Kabah is MX$80. These fees are paid at the site and only in cash.

• Food & Drinks: Lunch is included, but drinks are not. The van has a cooler for your beverages.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with one mentioning that their guide, Saúl, was “great, very informative,” and “mastered both Spanish and English.” Such guides make all the difference in understanding the sites’ stories and significance.

Several travelers found Uxmal and Kabah beautiful and surprisingly well-preserved, especially compared to Chichen Itza, which tends to be more crowded. One noted Uxmal’s “Magician’s Temple” as “totally awesome,” capturing the essence of why this site is special.

The Chocolate Museum receives mixed reviews—some find it “interesting,” while others feel it’s an “OK” add-on. Still, most agree it’s a fun, tasty way to end the day and learn about Maya chocolate traditions.

A few comments highlight the organization—timeliness, vehicle comfort, and overall value—adding confidence that the tour is well-managed.

On the downside, some guests felt the schedule could be more flexible, with suggestions to have more time at the ruins or to include more detailed commentary during travel. One reviewer even pointed out that the entrance fees are not included in the guide’s price, which might surprise some.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to history buffs, food lovers, and those seeking a balanced mix of archaeology and cultural insight. It’s particularly attractive for travelers who want a guided experience to unlock the stories behind the ruins without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, less-crowded experience at Uxmal and Kabah, and enjoy a good meal along with some local wildlife encounters, this trip is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend extra time exploring each site independently, you might find this schedule a bit tight.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is the entrance fee to Uxmal included?
No, the entry fee to Uxmal (MX$581 for foreigners, MX$264 for Mexicans) is paid separately at the site. The tour price covers transport, guide, and lunch.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts about 10 hours, typically from 8:00 am to around 6:00 pm, making it a full-day adventure.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is described as comfortable, with a cooler on board for drinks. The group size is limited to 19, which helps keep things personable.

Does the tour include guided explanations?
Absolutely. You’ll have a certified guide providing bilingual commentary at each site and during the drive.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, light colors, and sturdy shoes are recommended since you’ll walk and be outdoors.

Are meals included?
Yes, a three-course meal at Halach Huinic is part of the package, offering a taste of local cuisine.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you can store your beverages in the cooler on the van, but drinks are not included outside of the provided meal.

Are the ruins accessible for travelers with walking difficulties?
Not really. The tour involves walking on uneven terrain and some hills, so those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This guided tour of Uxmal, Kabah, and the Chocolate Museum from Mérida is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, informative day enriched with local culture and history. It’s especially suited for those keen on discovering less-crowded archaeological sites, enjoying authentic Yucatán cuisine, and exploring the cacao heritage of the region.

If you appreciate knowledgeable guides who can weave stories into your experience, and you’re comfortable with a full day on your feet, this tour provides excellent value. Its balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and wildlife encounters makes it a memorable journey into the heart of the Maya world—without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking to see some of the region’s best-kept secrets, this trip is a dependable choice. Just pack comfortable clothes, bring cash for site entries, and prepare for a day full of discovery.