Explore some off-the-beaten-path sites of the Yucatan Peninsula for a memorable experience.
Start nice and early with a pickup from your accommodations in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Make your way to Yalcoba, a small but quaint town in Yucatan, steeped in history and filled with a few scenic spots. Explore the town, whipping out your camera and snapping photos of the local life and scenery.
After Yalcoba, you’ll head to the first cenote, Cenote Xcanahaltun. This lesser-known cenote is a hidden gem tucked away in the northwest area of Valladolid. Descend the staircase that leads to the cave cenote and see the wondrous stalactites and stalagmites all around. You’ll have some free time to jump into the cool waters from the wooden platform and swim around in the turquoise waters.
Next, you’ll visit Cenote Sac Aua, one of the only cenotes with an island in the middle. This was caused when the roof of the cenote fell some thousands of years ago. You’ll have some time to swim in the emerald waters and maybe even kayak around the island before heading to the next stop.
You’ll head to the town of Tekom next and drive around to see one of the largest settlements on the Yucatan peninsula. You’ll also visit a church and get a glimpse of some of the locals as they pass by on their day-to-day errands and activities. Then you’ll head to Sardin Alak to visit a local bee farm.
Once there, you’ll learn about the ancient Mayan beekeeping practices, as well as the special species of bee called ‘Melipona beecheii’ or in Mayan ‘xunan kab’ which roughly translates to ‘regal lady bee’. Discover how the ancient Maya people used honey primarily for medicinal purposes rather than a sweetener and check out the local byproducts of the bee farm.
After the bee farm tour, you’ll partake of a local Yucatecan lunch before making your way back to your accommodations in Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
Air-conditioned vehicle
Snorkeling equipment (available for rent on-site)
