Yucatán is the perfect destination to indulge in the best of what Mexico has to offer. The pristine white sand beaches, ancient Aztec and Maya archaeological sites, and magical cenotes are a few of the many things to add to your day trip itinerary.
After spending a couple days in Tulum, I decided at the last-minute to drive to Yucatán to explore a different side of Mexico. If you are up for an adventure, check out my day trip itinerary below.
1: Explore Chichén Itzá
Chichén Itzá is one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations. This massive archaeological site is evidence of a dazzling ancient city that once centered Mayan civilization in Central America. In addition, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The main attraction is the Temple of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo. It is approximately 100-feet high, and was intentionally built as a physical calendar that aligns with the sun. The sunlight, during Fall and Spring equinoxes, creates the illusion of a feathered serpent sliding down the pyramid. There are 365 steps on the pyramid — one for each day of the year. Each of the temple’s four sides has 91 steps, and the top platform makes the 365th.
Did you know that Chichén Itzá still remains an active archeological site? New discoveries are still being unearthed there.
2: Swim at Cenote Ik Kil
Cenote Ik Kil is a mystical sinkhole adorned with mini-waterfalls and vines hanging from the opening down to the water.
It is only a 5-minute drive from Chichén Itzá. Moreover, it’s a good place for an afternoon cool down from all the heat. I was awestruck at the sight of this beauty, and believe you will be too.
3: Learn About — and Taste — Agave
Another day trip itinerary must, is a visit a distillery for a quick tour of the tequila making process. I visited Destilería de Agave Tradicional Mayapán – and there are many to choose from. This distillery includes an onsite agave plant farm where they grow, harvest, and make the tequila from pineapples.
The tour is brief but educational and also includes a tasting of five varieties, all different ages of tequila – freshly made, 6-month, 1-year, 6-year, and 10-year old. The residual smell of the blue agave pineapples smoking is delightful, and there are plenty of opportunities to ask the distillers questions.
4: Buy Local Crafts
The eclectic design and décor of Tulum and Cancun was inspiring and I wanted in on the action. By in I mean, I wanted to take home some artsy crafts from local artisans with me! If buying local is your thing, there are many opportunities to shop. There are several pocketed strips of street vendors along the roadside going to and returning from Yucatán. I made it a point to support these vendors who do the crafts themselves, and not shop at the high-end luxury shops. This option is not only more ethical to me, but is also way more affordable. Plus there is wiggle room to negotiate for a good price.
Crafts you can buy include furniture made from driftwood, light fixtures in the shape of bird nests, different sized hand-made hammocks and dream catchers, sayulita chairs and so much more. See what I brought home with me below.
Getting Around Yucatán
Even though I hired a private driver for my day trip, I recommend renting a car. Not only is renting budget friendly, but it will give you the freedom to explore as long or as short as needed.
I hope you enjoyed my day trip itinerary to Yucatán, Mexico. If you have question, don’t hesitate to contact me or comment below!
Cenote Ik Kil sure looks magical.The vines add to the appearance of many tiny streams of water. Beautiful! I visited Mexico City but Tulum is sure looking interesting. I love these unusual finds.