excursions
self-drive routes
Many of the most spectacular and fascinating treasures of
the Yucatan lie within easy reach of the Hacienda Temozon.
We recommend a minimum of 3 days to see the highlights of
the area, whilst a visit of one week would enable guests to
choose a selection of the routes below and also to enjoy
some of the more relaxing amenities at the hotel.
Puuc Route
Uxmal is considered by many to be the most beautiful of all
the Mayan cities. Whilst it would be easy to spend at least
one day at this site alone, we suggest that you also include
the neighboring sites of Labna, Xlapak, Sayil and (our
favorite), Kabah. These smaller cities can be covered in
around 30 minutes to 1 hour in each location, and all are
close together. During your excursion, enjoy a typically
Yucatecan lunch at the newly restored Hacienda Ochil.
Merida
Mexico's charming "white city" has a surprisingly violent
past. The huge and rather austere cathedral was built from
the stones of razed Mayan temples and later served as
fortifications during the struggle between the Mestizos and
the Maya. Today Merida is a peaceful but bustling city, with
leafy parks and fine colonial buildings. Sunday is a great
day to visit, with many roads closed to traffic as
entertainers, live bands and food vendors take to the
streets.
Celestun and the Haciendas
Visit the nearby hacienda of Chunchucmil and the
archaeological site at Oxkintok before arriving at the
little fishing village of Celestun. Here it is possible to
visit the nesting ground of thousands of pink flamingos - an
unforgettable sight. Many other rare species can be found
along the virgin coastline. Celestun is also a great place
for a seafood lunch, the staff will give you the latest
recommendations on where to dine in the town.
The Convent Route
This region boasts an amazing number of magnificent stone
convents, typically with openwork triangular belfries. Visit
the convents in the small authentic towns of Mama, Teabo and
Mani, followed by lunch in a renowned Yucatecan restaurant.
Don't miss the traditional local market at Oxkutzcab and the
ruins of the strategic Mayan city of Mayapan.
Progresso and Dzibilchaltun
Progresso is a small Mexican resort on the gulf coast, where
many water sports can be enjoyed. The fishing village of
Chicxulub, with its white sand beaches, is also worth a
visit, as are the nature reserves close to Telchac. En
route, visit the impressive ruins of Dzibilchaltun,
including the Temple of the Seven Dolls.
The Hacienda Route
A visit to the Hacienda at Uayalceh, one of the few in the
Yucatan still processing the henequen fiber, is not to be
missed. Compare the architecture in other haciendas at
Mucuyche and Yanku, noting the three cenotes (sink holes) an
important source of water for the Maya. After lunch in a
recommended restaurant in Ticul, enjoy a visit to the
spectacular caves at Loltun. Return via Uxmal for the
evening Sound and Light performance.
private tours
The following excursions can be arranged in advance or
during your stay at the Hacienda. The rates are valid for a
maximum of 5 people in an air-conditioned vehicle with an
English speaking driver and are subject to change until
confirmed. Professional guides or archaeologists speaking
foreign languages can be arranged if required. Cold towels,
soft drinks, fruits and light snacks will be provided, and
picnics can be arranged on prior notification. Half day
tours last for up to 5 hours and full day tours for up to
nine hours.
The excursions can be tailored to meet your requirements,
and the Hacienda's resident manager can suggest many other
fascinating and off-the-beaten-track tours.
| sample excursions available | |
|---|---|
| Uxmal, and the Puuc sites | Uxmal, with its intricate designs is often regarded as the most beautiful of
the Mayan cities. The smaller sites of Kabah, Sayil and Labna are also highly
worth a visit; each has a particular feature of interest, such as the fine arch
at Labna and the facade of Chac masks at Kabah. Full day US$242 |
| Chichen Itza, Izamal and Balankanche | Visit the majestic ruins of Chichen Itza, including the pyramid
of Kukulkan, the ball court and the Temple of the Warriors. Also included are
the "golden city" of Izamal, with its impressive monastery, and the beautiful
caves at Balankanche. Full day US$303 |
| Merida, Progresso and Dzibilchaltun | Merida, capital of the Yucatan, is a delightful city with parks, plazas,
markets, museums and fine colonial architecture. The impressive archaeological
site of Dzibilchaltun has been designated a national park. Progresso is a
tranquil fishing port with beaches for swimming. Full day US$215 |
| On the Way to Campeche | Visit the nearby ruins of Oxkinkok, the caves of Calcetok (some
of the biggest and most impressive in the Yucatan), the historic village of Muna
and the walled fishing port of Campeche. Full day US$303 |
| The Convent Route | A tour of delightful small towns, each with a fine monastery or other
special feature, and many with a strategic place in the history of the Yucatan.
Includes Muna, Ticul, Oxkutzcab, Mani, Teabo, Mayapan, Tecoh and Acanceh. Full day US$275 |
| Uayalceh | Visit a working sisal Hacienda at Uayalceh. Two hours US$28 |
| Poixla | Excursion to the hacienda at Poixla, where horseback riding is available. Half day US$61 |
| Note that prices are approximate and subject to change. Rates shown exclude taxes of 15% and service charge of 5%. | |
