top of page

The Merida Luxury Edit

A Refined Escape to the Yucatán’s Hidden Treasures

 

Mérida, the cultural heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, is a city of colonial charm, rich Mayan history, and natural wonders. This three-day itinerary offers an immersive experience filled with ancient ruins, hidden cenotes, and world-class dining, all while staying in opulent accommodations.

Image by Juan Pablo Gil

Day 1: Colonial Elegance & Cenote Bliss

 

Stay: Chablé Yucatán - Nestled in a restored 19th-century hacienda, this ultra-luxurious resort offers private villas with plunge pools, a world-class spa, and a Michelin-worthy culinary experience. LTE recommends basing yourself here for the whole itinerary but other options are suggested below as additional options. Some luxury travelers also opt for opulent airBnB homes which are available in Merida.

​

Morning: Mérida’s Historic Center
  • Begin your day with a private walking tour of Mérida’s historic center, exploring the Plaza Grande, the grand Palacio de Gobierno, and the 16th-century Catedral de San Ildefonso.

  • Visit Casa de Montejo, a stunning mansion showcasing the city’s colonial legacy.

  • Brunch at Kuuk - enjoy a refined take on Yucatecan cuisine with a multi-course tasting menu featuring local ingredients like achiote, sour oranges, and chaya.

 

Afternoon: Cenote Experience in Cuzamá
  • Escape the heat with a visit to Cenotes de Cuzamá, a collection of breathtaking underground freshwater pools.

  • Opt for a private cenote tour, where you can swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters inside dramatic limestone caves.

  • Evening Cocktails & Dinner at Apoala - Located in the chic Santa Lucía Park, Apoala blends Oaxacan and Yucatecan flavors with an extensive mezcal selection. Try the octopus in recado negro or cochinita pibil tacos with artisanal sauces.

  • Nightcap at Malahat Speakeasy, a hidden cocktail bar behind an unmarked door, serving expertly crafted drinks in an intimate setting.

​​

Day 2: Uxmal & Luxury Hacienda Escape

 

Stay: Hacienda Temozón - A beautifully restored 17th-century estate, offering colonial-style suites, lush gardens, and an infinity pool overlooking the jungle.

​

Morning: Private Tour of Uxmal
  • Travel to Uxmal, one of the most stunning Mayan ruins, known for its intricate stone carvings and towering pyramids.

  • With a private guide, explore the Pyramid of the Magician, the Governor’s Palace, and the Nunnery Quadrangle—a masterpiece of Mayan architecture.

  • Lunch at Hacienda Xcanatun - This former sisal plantation turned luxury retreat offers an elegant dining experience with fresh seafood, hand-made tortillas, and tropical cocktails.

​

Afternoon: Relaxation at Hacienda Temozón
  • Unwind with a Mayan-inspired spa treatment, using natural ingredients like honey, cocoa, and local herbs.

  • Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the estate’s scenic gardens.

  • Sunset Dinner at Nectar - indulge in contemporary Yucatecan fusion cuisine, where chef Roberto Solís reimagines local dishes with modern techniques. Try the roasted pork belly with hibiscus glaze or the grouper with black recado sauce.

​

Day 3: Chichén Itzá & Exclusive Mayan Luxury

 

Stay: Hacienda Chichen Resort & Yaxkin Spa - A jungle retreat with refreshing pool nearby the seventh wonder of the world.

​

Early Morning: Sunrise at Chichén Itzá
  • Experience a VIP sunrise tour of Chichén Itzá, beating the crowds to witness the majestic Kukulkán Pyramid bathed in golden light.

  • Explore the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court, and the Sacred Cenote, all with a private archaeologist guide.

  • Breakfast at the hotel - enjoy a traditional Yucatán-style breakfast with fresh fruit, handmade tortillas, and huevos motuleños.

​​

Afternoon: Cenote Ik Kil & Leisure
  • Take a refreshing dip in the iconic Cenote Ik Kil, a stunning open-air cenote surrounded by lush vines.

  • Insider Tip: try multiple cenotes in the vicinity - check out our beautiful Edit of the top five in Mexico via our instagram post and follow us at the same time!

  • Final Dinner: Ixi’im at Chablé Yucatán - end your Merida journey with an unforgettable dining experience at Ixi’im, a Michelin-star-worthy restaurant set in a historic hacienda. Savor dishes like suckling pig with pickled onions and Yucatán spices, paired with one of the finest tequila collections in the world.

​

Luxury Travel Tips for Mérida & the Yucatán

  • Private Tours: Opt for VIP guides at Chichén Itzá, Uxmal, and cenotes for an exclusive experience.

  • Luxury Transport: Hire a private driver or helicopter transfer for seamless travel between destinations.

  • Gourmet Yucatán Cuisine: Make reservations well in advance at the region’s top restaurants.

  • Stay in Haciendas: For a unique and lavish escape, choose restored haciendas with luxury amenities.

​

Optional Day 4: Secluded Beach Luxury in Sisal

​

Stay: Casa de los Artistas, Sisal - A stunning private beachfront villa offering an exclusive retreat with oceanfront infinity pools, butler service, and a private chef.

 
Morning: Private Mangrove & Wildlife Safari
  • Begin the day with a VIP boat tour through the mangrove forests of Sisal, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

  • With a naturalist guide, spot flamingos, herons, and even crocodiles in this pristine ecosystem.

  • Glide through hidden waterways and discover crystal-clear natural pools perfect for a refreshing dip.

  • Luxury Beach Picnic on a Secluded Shore - Arrive at a private, untouched beach where a luxurious picnic setup awaits.

  • Savor a chef-prepared gourmet lunch featuring fresh ceviche, tropical fruits, artisan cheeses, and chilled champagne under a shaded canopy.

  • Enjoy a relaxing canoe ride through the mahgives and even swim in a natural cenote in the mangroves 

​​

Evening: Sunset Dinner in a Historic Hacienda
  • Conclude your day with an exclusive, candlelit dinner at Hacienda Santa Rosa, a beautifully restored 18th-century estate.

  • Dine on traditional Yucatecan dishes with a modern twist, paired with hand-selected wines.

  • Take a starlit stroll through the lush gardens, soaking in the serenity of this hidden gem.

​​

Why Add This Extra Day?
  • Unparalleled Seclusion – Escape the crowds for a private beach experience.

  • Wildlife & Adventure – Explore one of Yucatán’s most pristine natural reserves.

This bespoke extra day is the perfect way to unwind in total luxury while discovering Sisal’s unspoiled beauty. 

​

This high-end Mérida itinerary offers a perfect blend of ancient wonders, serene nature, and indulgent luxury.

Image by Laura LaBrie
bottom of page