Mérida: Jungle & Cenotes Tour with Horseriding & Lunch

Planning a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula and looking for a memorable day that combines adventure, nature, and delicious local flavors? This tour offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to travelers eager to explore beyond the usual sights. From riding horseback through lush jungles to cooling off in pristine cenotes, and finishing with a flavorful Yucatecan meal, it’s an excursion designed to satisfy your adventurous spirit and your taste buds.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the combination of outdoor activities and culture, the chance to swim in untouched cenotes, and the small group setting that promises personalized attention. On the flip side, the challenging trails and physical demands might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or lower fitness levels. This tour tends to attract those who enjoy active experiences and want a genuine taste of Yucatan’s natural beauty.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic landscapes, local cuisine, and a bit of adventure, this tour is likely to hit the mark. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a balanced, engaging, and value-packed day that offers more than just sightseeing.

Good To Know

• Authentic experience riding through jungles and haciendas
• Swim in four pristine cenotes with untouched waters
• Includes a flavorful 4-course Yucatecan meal
• Small group tours ensure a personal touch
• Challenging trails suit active travelers
• All necessary equipment provided for comfort and safety

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Mérida Jungle & Cenotes Tour

Starting Point and Overview

This tour kicks off at Hacienda Sotuta de Peón, a historic site that adds a layer of cultural depth to your day. From here, you’ll meet your guide—who’s likely to speak both Spanish and English, making communication smooth—and receive your horseback riding gear. The tour promises about 3 hours of activity, blending horseback riding, swimming, and dining, making it a fulfilling yet manageable experience.

What to Expect During the Tour

Horseback Riding Through Jungle and Henequen Fields
Your adventure begins with a guided ride through scenic trails that wind past henequen plantations, haciendas, and lush greenery. The routes vary in length, ranging from 5 to 18 km, depending on the chosen trail. This offers a good mix of manageable rides for beginners and more challenging paths for those seeking a bit more thrill. Riders will enjoy feeling the warm breeze, spotting local flora and fauna, and soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

We found that the guides are experienced and attentive, ensuring safety without sacrificing the fun. The trails are described as challenging, so a decent level of fitness is recommended. For those not used to riding, the experience can be exhilarating yet physically demanding. We also appreciate that all equipment is provided, eliminating the hassle of bringing your own gear.

Discovering and Swimming in Cenotes
After your ride, the tour takes you to three beautiful, barely adapted cenotes. These natural sinkholes are known for their clear, cool waters—perfect for a refreshing swim. Since the cenotes are kept largely untouched, they offer a glimpse into pristine natural beauty that’s rare to find in heavily commercialized tourist spots.

One reviewer shared, “The cenotes felt untouched and pure, so swimming there was like stepping into a secret world.” The waters are crystal clear, and the peace around these spots makes the experience quite special. Be sure to bring swimwear and insect repellent as recommended—these waters are often surrounded by lush greenery, which attracts insects.

Cultural and Culinary Highlights at Restaurante KIH
Post-swim, you’ll return to the Hacienda for a well-deserved meal. The tour includes a delicious 4-course Yucatecan lunch, offering a taste of local flavors. Expect dishes that showcase regional ingredients and cooking styles, such as cochinita pibil, papadzules, or other traditional fare.

This meal is a highlight for many. Guests frequently mention how the flavors are authentic and satisfying—an ideal way to finish a day full of activity. The setting at Restaurante KIH provides a relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and reflect on your adventure.

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Hacienda Sotuta de Peón with a safety briefing and gear distribution
• Horseback riding along varied trails, covering 5-18 km depending on your route
• Visit and swim in three very natural, minimally altered cenotes
• Return to the Hacienda to leave gear and head for lunch
• Enjoy a 4-course Yucatecan meal at Restaurante KIH
• Back to the starting point, completing around three hours of activity

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included in the price of $76 per person are horseback riding equipment, a live guide, and the traditional lunch. The small group setting—limited to 10 participants—ensures a more intimate experience, with personalized attention from your guides.

However, transportation to the starting point is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there. The tour is usually available in the afternoon or evening, making it flexible for those exploring Mérida or nearby areas.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes suited for riding and walking
• Bring swimwear and insect repellent to enjoy the cenotes comfortably
• Be prepared for the challenging trails, especially if you’re not used to physical activity
• If you have mobility impairments or low fitness, this might not be the best fit
• Book ahead with free cancellation up to 24 hours—a flexible option for spontaneous plans

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to combine outdoor activity with culture. It’s great for those comfortable with physical activity and eager to explore Yucatan’s natural landscapes in a genuine way. Families with active kids, couples, or solo travelers seeking a mix of adrenaline and relaxation will find much to enjoy.

While the challenging trails and minimalistic cenotes may not suit everyone, the overall value, authenticity, and well-rounded nature of this tour make it a standout choice for those wanting a fuller, more genuine Yucatan experience.

Final Thoughts

This Jungle & Cenotes Tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, nature, and regional cuisine—all within a small-group setting that fosters a personal connection to the landscape. The chance to ride through scenic trails, swim in untouched cenotes, and savor authentic Yucatecan dishes makes it a memorable day out.

The tour’s value lies in its diverse activities and cultural authenticity. It’s especially suited to travelers who want more than just sightseeing, craving a day of active discovery and genuine encounters with Yucatan’s natural beauty.

While physically demanding, the experience rewards visitors with stunning views, peaceful cenotes, and a taste of local life that’s hard to find elsewhere. If you’re after an authentic, active, and immersive day, this tour delivers on all fronts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to Hacienda Sotuta de Peón.

How long does the tour last?
The activity typically lasts around 3 hours, including horseback riding, cenote swimming, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, comfortable clothes, and insect repellent. The tour provides all necessary riding equipment.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with low fitness levels?
The trails are challenging and require physical activity, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or low fitness.

What’s the size of the tour group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What kind of cuisine is served during lunch?
A 4-course Yucatecan meal, showcasing regional flavors and ingredients.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour captures the essence of Yucatan’s natural and cultural charm—perfect for active travelers eager to experience the region’s authentic landscapes and flavors.

You can check if your dates are available here: