Family-Friendly Adventures in Merida!

Aké Ruins and Hacienda

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating family adventure at the Aké Ruins and nearby Hacienda, a journey steeped in history and natural beauty in Yucatan, Mexico.

Morning: Visit Aké Ruins

Start your day early by driving to the Aké Ruins, located approximately 35 kilometers east of Merida. You can rent a car or take a bus from the Noreste bus station in Merida, which provides a comfortable ride directly to the site. The ruins open at 8 AM, perfect for beating the heat and the crowds.

Aké is a lesser-known archaeological site, making it an ideal spot for families to explore without the rush. The site features impressive structures such as large palaces and a unique assembly of columns at the main plaza. Originally a hub for the sisal industry, Aké offers a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization and its integration into colonial economies. Climb the structures with your kids and play "spot the iguana" as these creatures are frequent visitors basking in the sun.

Lunch Break

Around noon, head back towards Merida for a quick lunch. Enjoy traditional Yucatecan cuisine such as "panuchos" or "salbutes" at a local eatery.

Afternoon: Hacienda Visit

After lunch, a 20-minute drive will take you to one of the majestic haciendas such as Hacienda Yaxcopoil or Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman. These haciendas are relics of the colonial era when they served as plantations and factories. Explore the grand architecture and lush gardens. Many haciendas offer guided tours which detail their history from the Mayan era through the colonial period and into the henequen boom, providing an educational backdrop for children and adults alike.

Tips

- Bring plenty of water, sun hats, and sunscreen as both locations can be quite sunny and warm.

- Check for any special events or workshops at the hacienda that might be interesting for kids, such as traditional crafting or cooking classes.

This itinerary offers a blend of history, culture, and fun, tailored for a memorable family day out!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mayapan

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Mayapan

Morning: Arrival & Exploration

Start your adventure early by driving approximately 40 minutes southeast from Merida to Mayapan, located in Mexico"s Yucatan Peninsula. As the last great Maya capital, Mayapan offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Maya civilization. Upon arrival, take your time to explore the well-preserved ruins, including over 4000 structures spread out over 4 square kilometers. Key highlights include the Temple of Kukulcán, a smaller replica of the famous Chichen Itza"s El Castillo.

Fun Fact: Mayapan was once home to as many as 17,000 people in the 13th to 15th centuries. Teach your kids about the daily life of the Mayas and how they were excellent astronomers.

Midday: Picnic & Interactive Learning

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas where you can relax under the shade of lush trees. Post-lunch, engage with one of the on-site guides to learn about the ancient Mayan calendar and try deciphering hieroglyphs on the ruins" stelae. These activities not only enhance the learning experience but are also great fun for children.

Afternoon: Arts and Crafts Workshop

After exploring, participate in a local arts and crafts workshop often held near the site. These workshops are fantastic for kids as they get to make souvenirs using traditional Mayan techniques. Activities might include pottery making or weaving, giving a hands-on experience of Mayan culture.

Late Afternoon: Departure

As the day winds down, take the scenic drive back to Merida. Use this time to discuss the day’s discoveries and maybe plan another visit to further explore the enchanting world of the Mayas.

Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water to beat the heat, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Chacchoben

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Chacchoben

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Begin your adventure in Chacchoben, a hidden gem in the heart of Mexico"s Costa Maya, just about 70 kilometers from Bacalar. Rent a car from Chetumal International Airport for a scenic hour-long drive to your lodge near the ruins.

Morning: Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Kick off with the main attraction, the ancient Mayan ruins of Chacchoben. Arrive early to enjoy a cooler and less crowded experience. Join a guided tour to explore this archaeological site, which dates back to 200 BC. The main temple, standing majestically at 24 meters tall, offers a fantastic view and photo opportunity. Guides are fantastic at engaging kids with stories about Mayan astronomy and mythology.

Afternoon: Lake Bacalar

After exploring the ruins, drive 45 minutes to Lake Bacalar, known as the "Lake of the Seven Colors". This freshwater lake is perfect for a refreshing swim. Rent kayaks or go on a small boat tour to explore the lake"s unique ecosystems and stunning cenotes that are great for snorkeling.

Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

Morning: Bacalar Sanctuary

Start your day with a visit to the Bacalar Sanctuary, a haven for local wildlife where families can learn about conservation efforts. The sanctuary offers guided tours that are both educational and engaging for children.

Afternoon: Explore Local Cuisine

Spend your afternoon in the local village trying traditional Mayan dishes like Cochinita Pibil (slow-roasted pork) or Poc Chuc (grilled pork). Many local restaurants are family-friendly, offering not just delicious meals but also play areas for children.

Evening: Return to Lodge

Head back to your lodge. Many offer evening cultural activities such as storytelling or stargazing sessions, which are perfect for wrapping up your family"s exploration of Chacchoben.

This itinerary offers a blend of historical education, adventure, and relaxation, ensuring that every family member has an unforgettable experience in the heart of Maya culture.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hacienda Yaxcopoil

Why Visit?

Family Adventure at Hacienda Yaxcopoil

Morning Arrival

Start your day early and drive to Hacienda Yaxcopoil, located about 30 km south of Mérida, Yucatán on Highway 261 towards Uxmal. The drive takes about 40 minutes, making it an easy day trip. Park at the hacienda’s dedicated lot and step into a time capsule that showcases the grandeur of the colonial era and the sisal industry’s boom.

Exploring the Hacienda

Upon arrival, take a family-friendly guided tour which begins at 9:00 AM. The tour showcases the main house, the machine room, and the smaller Casa de Máquinas, which are adorned with original European-imported furniture and machinery once used in sisal production. Guides often share fascinating tales of the hacienda’s past, including its operation during the henequen boom which once dubbed Yucatán as the world"s major sisal producer.

Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the hacienda’s vast gardens. The serene surroundings provide a perfect spot for a family lunch. After eating, take a leisurely stroll around the estate. The large arches and towering columns make for beautiful family photos!

Interactive Learning

In the afternoon, engage with the interactive displays that illustrate the process of transforming henequen (sisal fiber) into various products. This hands-on experience is both educational and fun for children, helping them understand the historical significance of the place.

Souvenir Shopping

Before heading back, visit the gift shop where you can buy traditional crafts, including items made from sisal. These unique souvenirs serve as a memorable token from your family’s journey into Yucatán’s history.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by 4:00 PM, ensuring you leave with ample time to return to Mérida or continue exploring nearby Mayan ruins like Uxmal.

This engaging tour not only offers a glimpse into the Yucatán’s past but also provides a peaceful retreat into one of Mexico’s historical treasures.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Dzibilchaltún

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable family day trip to Dzibilchaltún, a captivating Mayan archaeological site located just 15 kilometers north of Mérida, Yucatán. Easily accessible by car or public transport, you can rent a vehicle or hop on a bus from Mérida’s downtown for a convenient 30-minute ride.

Morning Exploration

Start your adventure early in the morning to beat the heat and crowds. Upon arrival, head straight for the Temple of the Seven Dolls, named after the unique clay figurines discovered within during the spring equinox. This temple aligns perfectly with the rising sun on this day, creating a breathtaking spectacle - a thrilling educational snippet for the kids!

Interactive Museum Visit

Next, visit the on-site museum which houses artifacts from the Mayan civilization and offers insightful details about the everyday lives of the ancient Maya. This air-conditioned space is perfect to cool down while engaging with the rich history through interactive displays - ideal for curious minds.

Refreshing Swim

After exploring the ruins, take a rejuvenating dip in the Xlacah cenote located at the site’s center. It’s one of the largest cenote pools found at any Mayan site and is shallow enough for younger children to enjoy safely under parental supervision.

Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas amidst the lush greenery. This is a great time to relax and reflect on the morning’s discoveries.

Leisurely Afternoon

Wrap up your visit with a leisurely stroll through the well-marked trails, spotting exotic birds and perhaps even some iguanas. Before heading back, make sure to browse the small selection of local handicrafts available near the entrance - perfect for memorable souvenirs.

This family-friendly itinerary ensures a blend of education, excitement, and relaxation, making your trip to Dzibilchaltún a cherished experience for both adults and children alike.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.