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brooke beyond

Africa / South Africa

Celebrating 24 at a sunset concert in Cape Town’s Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

January 25, 2018

After a positively unbelievable 2 months in Southern Africa that included scenic coastal road trips, over-indulgence in wine country, a few sweaty hikes with beautiful views, history lessons, safaris through some truly incredible national parks and private reserves, a bit of paddling, a lot of walking, and an unbelievable amount of driving, not to mention lions, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, sharks, meerkats, and penguins… I’m finally headed back to Cape Town to celebrate my 24th revolution around the sun and reminisce on the trip of a lifetime. And while I’m pretty sure the expression “once in a lifetime” implies “once”, this trip is instantly worthy of repeating. I’ll definitely be back, Africa, just you wait!

All the details: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Cost: Entry into the gardens is R65 (payable at the main entrance), and most of the summer concerts range in price from R100-200 (book online or grab last minute tickets at the entry).

Getting there: If you don’t have a car, just take a quick Uber from central Cape Town to the Gardens, which are located around the east side of Table Mountain.

What to do: Spend the afternoon wandering around the gardens and exploring the incredible variety of native flora; hike Table Mountain via several different tracks originating in the Gardens; attend one of the garden concerts; or grab a blanket, pack an esky full of drinks and nibbles, and enjoy a picnic lunch in one the South Africa’s most beautiful settings.

Top tips: Buy a map for R5 upon entry; the Gardens are actually enormous, and it’s easy to miss entire sections (or just get lost).


Waking up in my comfy bed at Highlanders, feeling more than a little groggy from the lack of sleep and also possibly the wine, I pack my things into my locker and eat breakfast out front of the truck for the last time. Not having to pack up a tent means a much shorter morning routine for me, so it’s not long at all before we are cruising along and pretty much all passed out until arriving in Cape Town around 11am. It’s actually really nice to be back in this city, which feels sort of familiar to me just from the week I spent here last month. And, of course, the sprawling views during the whole drive don’t hurt either.

After checking into the hostel and emptying everything off the bus (which is no small feat, so it takes a lot longer than I just made it sound), Kerri, Nicole, and I hop into an Uber to check Nicole into her apartment in the city, nip off to lunch, and then come back to her room to get ready. It was my original birthday request that we hike Table Mountain via the Skeleton Gorge and Smuts Track, but it’s already late in the afternoon and we are worried about being caught in the dark, so we settle instead for a sunset concert in the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens that actually turns out to be amazing. (Of course, we have no idea who Fokofpolisiekar are when we buy the tickets, but we soon learn that they are a very popular Afrikaans rock band whose name literally means “Fuck Off Police Car”, so it promises to be a thrilling evening.)

Arriving at the Gardens, we don’t manage to find any of the other girls at our previously designated meeting spot, which is bound to happen when no one has a working phone. Eventually, we just head inside and stake out a good spot on the grass from which to watch all the on-stage theatrics. Not too long after our arrival, we see Kate and Tess coming up the path, carrying with them a huge variety of cheese, crackers, and deli meats for our little picnic, and then a bit later also see Di and Grace approaching from the opposite side.

Cheese in hand (how life was meant to be lived), good music pumping across the grass, and probably the most scenic setting for a concert I’ve ever been to all make for an amazing night. It’s over far too soon, but we happily just sit on the grass and talk after the music finishes, not ready to leave. The girls have apparently been passing a card around to sign for my birthday (I must be the most oblivious person ever, because I saw nothing), and Kate and Tess even picked out a few little gifts for me at the market from everyone, which they give me now. I am actually beside myself with how sweet this gesture is. It’s seriously so amazing the effort that everyone has made into making today a special birthday for me, and I feel like I almost might cry happy tears all over the focacia and hummus. I do manage to stave off any waterworks, but still, I’m pretty happy as we walk out of the Gardens. I fully expected to be spending my birthday alone before I met all these amazing people, but now I can’t imagine it any other way.

A birthday concert in the gardens

Full from all the cheese and dip, we decide to go for dessert rather than dinner in Camps Bay, which involves an Uber ride across the city. The waterfront is sadly not as impressive in the pitch black as it is in the day, but everyone still enjoys the area and we find a really great dessert spot overlooking the beach. After a few cakes and assorted bits, we divide ourselves into 2 Ubers for the ride back and say goodbye. I’ll be seeing everyone else tomorrow for some market shopping and our tour of Robben Island, but I have to say a big goodbye to Nicole, wishing her plenty of Great Whites on her shark dive tomorrow. Seeing as she only lives a few hours away, I’m sure we will be seeing more of each other in the future, but it’s still sad to think that I’ll soon be waking up much farther than 5m away from all the girls. I truly couldn’t ask for a better group of friends to make in Africa, and they honestly made today one of my best birthdays yet.

Read more about South Africa in these posts

THE PERFECT 3-5 WEEK SOUTH AFRICA ITINERARY

DRIVING THE CAPE PENINSULA: BOULDERS BEACH & CAPE OF GOOD HOPE

COMPARING SAFARIS IN KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, SABI SANDS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE & ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK

A GUIDE TO PLANNING THE BEST SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARI

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO IN JOHANNESBURG

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DRIVING SOUTH AFRICA’S GARDEN ROUTE

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brooke brisbine

I've spent the last decade exploring the world— everything from solo trekking in the Andes to overlanding in Zambia, all while completing a PhD in Biomechanics, teaching at a university & securing permanent residency in Australia. In 2020, I finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time nomad! Whether it’s vanlife in Mexico, scuba diving in the Galápagos, ticking off incredible US National Parks, or climbing in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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hi, I’m brooke!

I've spent the last decade exploring the world— everything from solo trekking in the Andes to overlanding in Zambia, all while completing a PhD in Biomechanics. In 2020, I finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time nomad! Whether it’s vanlife in Mexico, scuba diving in the Galápagos, ticking off incredible US National Parks, or climbing in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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  • jumping into the underworld like 🤙🏼

📍 cenote calavera, quintana roo 🇲🇽 
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#mexico #travelmexico #vivamexico #exploremexico #mexicoroadtrip #mexicomagico #mexicolindo #yucatanpeninsula #allaboutadventures #girlsgoneglobal #girlslovetravel #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls #quintanaroo #quintanaroomexico #cenote #cenotes #cenotecalavera #tulum #tulummexico
  • One of the most unique cenotes experiences you can have anywhere— kayaking in a cave, around a small circular island, surrounded by fish & turtles.
  • A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
  • If it can’t be the mountains, then it better be the ocean! Where do you feel the most free? 🤩

🚁: @cal_field 
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#mexico #travelmexico #vivamexico #exploremexico #mexicoroadtrip #mexicomagico #mexicolindo #roamtheplanet #roadtrip #yucatanpeninsula #allaboutadventures #adventureculture #travelblog #adventurebabes #girlsgoneglobal #girlslovetravel #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls #beachbum #quintanaroo #quintanaroomexico #holbox #islaholbox #holbox mexico #foryou #fyp #travelreel
  • FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
  • FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 1] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Oxmán 💎
beautiful open cenote beneath towering limestone walls covered in verdant foliage. Entry is 150p or 300p for entry plus a 250p-coupon to spend at the pool-front restaurant! Life jackets required. 
~ best for: swimming & then grabbing lunch

💎 Cenote Suytun 💎
this instafamous cenote features a stunning stone walkway into the middle of the cave and is absolutely crawling with people, BUT if you stay in the cabañas on-site for 900p, you’ll get the 200p/person entry for free AND easily be the first ones inside when it opens at 9am. 
~ best for: photography 

💎 Cenote Secretó Maya 💎
incredible open cenote dripping in vines and ringed by agave, with a whopping 54m depth. Several jump platforms & an epic rope swing, plus an on-site restaurant, cabañas for rent & even massages. Entry is 200p or 300p with a cave tour; life jacket available but not required. 
~ best for: off-the-beaten-path adventures

💎 Cenote Palomitas 💎
quiet & lesser visited cave cenote with amazing stalactites. Entry is 170p with optional life jacket/tube or 270p with delicious lunch buffet (great value!).
~ best for: amazing stalactites 

💎 Cenote Agua Dulce 💎
in the same complex as Palomitas but with a separate entrance fee (170p), this is another amazing cave cenote with a floating dock and few people. 
~ best for: a quiet cave cenote
  • VALLADOLID TRAVEL GUIDE 🌈🇲🇽✨

From its colonial streets & sparkling central park to the centuries-old Mayan ruins & otherworldly cenotes that surround it, this colourful pueblo mágico in central Yucatán is not to be missed!

WHAT TO DO
🌴 Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado: this bustling central plaza is the lifeblood of Valladolid, hosting vendors, live music & beautiful views of Templo de San Servacio
🌈 La Calzada de los Frailes: this colourful street is my favourite spot for a stroll past artisan boutiques & trendy restaurants
🥃 Mayapán Agave Distillery: it’s only “tequila” if it’s made in Tequila, Jalisco & a few surrounding municipalities, but this distillery in Valladolid produces the only blue agave spirit in Yucatán & it’s pretty delicious! (100p for 15min tour & 5 samples)
💎 Cenotes: some of Mexico’s best cenotes are located within easy driving distance of Valladolid [stay tuned for a future post with specific recommendations]
🛕 Chichén Itzá: one of the 7 Wonders of the World, this Mayan archaeological site is just 1hr from Valladolid (576p entry)
🗿 Ek Balam: 1500-year-old+ Mayan archaeological site with one of the few pyramids you can still climb (499p entry)

WHERE TO EAT
🥩 Conato: phenomenal restaurant offering a modern interpretation of traditional Yucatecan food and full-to-the-brim mezcal cocktails 
🐖 Taquería Rosario: fantastic cochinito pibil (15p tacos, 30p tortas)
🌮 El Tigrillo: roadside taco stand bustling with locals, serving up excellent cochinita pibil (20p tacos)
🥞 Marquesitas Los 3 Reyes: you might not imagine gouda, nutella & a cream cheese to be a good crepe combo, but you’d be wrong. Try delicious marquesitas (traditional Yucateca dessert) from 4-9pm daily in Parque Principal, just in front of the church (30-40p)
🐆 Ix Cat Ik Tradicional Mayan Comida: touristy restaurant with prices to match, but excellent food and a great atmosphere for trying traditional Mayan fare
  • EK BALAM: THE BLACK JAGUAR 🐆 

One of the most impressive archaeological sites in Yucatán is Ek Balam, whose name means “the black jaguar”— a representation of bravery & power, a symbol of the fearless warrior. In Mayan mythology, the jaguar was also one of the rulers of Xibalbá, the underworld, and therefore a symbol of the night sun & darkness 🌙 

Built in 100BCE & still inhabited when the Spanish invaded in the 1500s, Ek Balam was the centre of a flourishing Mayan kingdom. Only a fraction of the city was excavated in the 90s, but it’s a fascinating look into the history of this storied region that absolutely should not be missed!

Here’s what you need to know ↯

🚗 GETTING HERE
Ek Balam is just 30km (30min) north of Valladolid & can be accessed by car, bus, or organised tour. Driving will give you the most flexibility & it’s a very straightforward journey!

💸 COST
Entry is steep at 499p, but it’s one of the few ruins where you are still permitted to climb the pyramids! You can also hire a guide at the entrance for an additional 600p. 

⌛️ RECOMMENDED TIME
Allow at least 2hrs to explore the sprawling complex of Ek Balam, read all the informational plaques, and climb the Acropolis & other nearby structures. 

🤩 DON’T MISS
The incredible carved reliefs on display at the top of the Acropolis are among the best preserved examples of ancient art in all of Mesoamérica!

💎 NEARBY
Visit Cenote Xcanché for a refreshing dip after a hot afternoon at Ek Balam— it’s located 2km from the ruins, so either drive your car, walk, or hop in a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p. 

Have you been to Ek Balam?
  • IZAMAL TRAVEL GUIDE 💛🍋✨

Painted entirely in bright yellow & overflowing with small-town charm, this sunny pueblo mágico between Valladolid & Mérida is an enchanting stop on any Yucatán road trip! Here’s what you need to know about Mexico’s “Yellow Town” ↯

WHAT TO DO
🍋 Wander through the colourful streets: perhaps the best thing to do in Izamal is simply wander through the cobbled streets & admire the bright yellow buildings
✝️ Convento de San Antonio de Padua: striking 16th century convent in the middle of town, don’t miss the chance to wander through the grounds!
🛕Pirámide Kinich Kakmó: dedicated to a Mayan god who descended each day as a fire macaw to collect sacrifices, this ancient pyramid is located right in the middle of town & you can climb to the top for beautiful views (free!)
💎 Anillo de Cenotes: within a 60-90min drive, explore the “Ring of Cenotes”, formed by the same asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs 66mil years ago [stay tuned for specific cenote recommendations!]

WHERE TO EAT
🐖 Kinich: rated one of Mexico’s best restaurants, this beautifully decorated patio space serves up local Mayan delicacies like poc chuc, cochinita pibil, sikil pak & empanadas de chaya
🌱 La Casona de Izamal: trendy cafe located behind a boutique, offering a mix of Mayan & Mexican cuisine
🌮 taco stands surrounding the main plaza 

WHERE TO STAY
@hotelquintaizamal
follow @brookebeyond_

travel beyond the ordinary

Explore my travel guides, custom itineraries & blog posts with an interactive world map ✨

all destinations

  • jumping into the underworld like 🤙🏼

📍 cenote calavera, quintana roo 🇲🇽 
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#mexico #travelmexico #vivamexico #exploremexico #mexicoroadtrip #mexicomagico #mexicolindo #yucatanpeninsula #allaboutadventures #girlsgoneglobal #girlslovetravel #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls #quintanaroo #quintanaroomexico #cenote #cenotes #cenotecalavera #tulum #tulummexico
  • One of the most unique cenotes experiences you can have anywhere— kayaking in a cave, around a small circular island, surrounded by fish & turtles.
  • A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
  • If it can’t be the mountains, then it better be the ocean! Where do you feel the most free? 🤩

🚁: @cal_field 
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#mexico #travelmexico #vivamexico #exploremexico #mexicoroadtrip #mexicomagico #mexicolindo #roamtheplanet #roadtrip #yucatanpeninsula #allaboutadventures #adventureculture #travelblog #adventurebabes #girlsgoneglobal #girlslovetravel #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls #beachbum #quintanaroo #quintanaroomexico #holbox #islaholbox #holbox mexico #foryou #fyp #travelreel
  • FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
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jumping into the underworld like 🤙🏼 📍 cenote calavera, quintana roo 🇲🇽 . . . . . . . . #mexico #travelmexico #vivamexico #exploremexico #mexicoroadtrip #mexicomagico #mexicolindo #yucatanpeninsula #allaboutadventures #girlsgoneglobal #girlslovetravel #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls #quintanaroo #quintanaroomexico #cenote #cenotes #cenotecalavera #tulum #tulummexico
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One of the most unique cenotes experiences you can have anywhere— kayaking in a cave, around a small circular island, surrounded by fish & turtles.
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One of the most unique cenotes experiences you can have anywhere— kayaking in a cave, around a small circular island, surrounded by fish & turtles.
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/5
A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨

Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. 

{note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas}

⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯

UXMAL
✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court
⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs
💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH)

KABÁH
✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 75p

SAYIL
✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs 
⌛️ recommended time: 1hr
💸 entrance fee: 70p

XLAPAK
✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops)
⌛️ recommended time: 30min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

LABNÁ
✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle
⌛️ recommended time: 45min
💸 entrance fee: 70p

⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC
- aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!)
- allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!)
- it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná
- there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
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A GUIDE TO RUTA PUUC (UXMAL & BEYOND) 🛕🗿✨ Just 80km (1hr) from Mérida, the Puuc Route is a string of 5 impeccably preserved & staggeringly ornate archaeological sites that are among my favourite in all of Mexico! The best part: you’re likely to be the only one at some of these off-the-beaten-path ruins. {note: all of these photos were taken in areas open to the public; ALWAYS respect culturally significant sites by obeying local regulations & only walking in permitted areas} ⚡️ Dive into 1500+ years of history on Ruta Puuc ↯ UXMAL ✨ highlights: the rounded Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Sorcerer) dominates as you enter the site, but the extravagantly adorned Governor’s Palace is equally impressive, as is the well-preserved Mayan Ball Court ⌛️ recommended time: 2hrs 💸 entrance fee: 499p (409 + 90 INAH) KABÁH ✨ highlights: the impossibly striking Palacio de los Máscaras is decorated with 300 masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac ⌛️ recommended time: 45min 💸 entrance fee: 75p SAYIL ✨highlights: El Gran Palacio (also called the North Palace) is a breathtaking spectacle of columns & Puuc-style bas-reliefs ⌛️ recommended time: 1hr 💸 entrance fee: 70p XLAPAK ✨highlights: beautifully decorated El Palacio (though admittedly the least exciting of all the stops) ⌛️ recommended time: 30min 💸 entrance fee: 70p LABNÁ ✨highlights: El Arco, a lavishly decorative arch in flawless condition & surrounded by jungle ⌛️ recommended time: 45min 💸 entrance fee: 70p ⚠️ OTHER TIPS FOR RUTA PUUC - aim to arrive to Uxmal near opening at 8am for a super quiet experience (& to beat the afternoon heat as you continue to other sites!) - allow ~9hrs from Mérida to drive the entire route, visit all 5 archaeological sites & then return to Mérida (+2hrs if you want to stop at a cenote on the way back, which I’d recommend!) - it’s about 20min from Uxmal to Kabah, but the subsequent ruins get closer & closer together until you’re driving <5min from Xlapak to Labná - there is extremely limited Telcel service once you’re at the ruins, so it’s not a bad idea to download offline Google Maps on your phone
7 days ago
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3/5
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
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If it can’t be the mountains, then it better be the ocean! Where do you feel the most free? 🤩 🚁: @cal_field . . . . . . . . . #mexico #travelmexico #vivamexico #exploremexico #mexicoroadtrip #mexicomagico #mexicolindo #roamtheplanet #roadtrip #yucatanpeninsula #allaboutadventures #adventureculture #travelblog #adventurebabes #girlsgoneglobal #girlslovetravel #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls #beachbum #quintanaroo #quintanaroomexico #holbox #islaholbox #holbox mexico #foryou #fyp #travelreel
1 week ago
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FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨

💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎
incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon!
~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote

💎 Cenote Chukum 💎
my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. 
~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 

💎 Cenote Toh 💎 
seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! 
~ best for: complete solitude 

💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 
located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit!
~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam

💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎
after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude.
~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
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FAVOURITE CENOTES NEAR VALLADOLID [PART 2] 🌈🇲🇽✨ 💎 Cenote Sac Aua 💎 incredibly unique semi-open cenote with a small, tree-covered island surrounded by a vividly blue ring of water (look out for the resident turtle!). Entry is 150p entry; for an additional 100p, hire a kayak for 35min. Only locals here when we visited on a Saturday afternoon! ~ best for: kayaking in a unique cenote 💎 Cenote Chukum 💎 my favourite cave cenote in Yucatán, this is a built-up yet blissfully uncrowded adventure park 18m below the ground with jump platforms, a tandem flying fox & spectacular light beams. Entry is 200p entry; life jacket is mandatory and included in cost. There’s also a restaurant onsite. ~ best for: adventure activities in a beautiful setting 💎 Cenote Toh 💎 seemingly located in someone’s backyard, this cenote was recommended by a local & indeed we were the only ones there (1-3pm on a Friday during busy season). A long spiral staircase descends into a massive cave illuminated by a single light hanging from the ceiling. Entry is 150p; I’d recommend bringing your own floatie, some beers, and a speaker! ~ best for: complete solitude 💎 Cenote Xcanche 💎 located just 2km from El Balam, either drive your own car, walk, or catch a tuk tuk. Entry is 170p & includes access to jump platforms & a rope swing; additional 150p for rappelling into the cenote, 150p to zipline, or 100p for the flying fox. Busy because of proximity to the ruins, but worth the visit! ~ best for: cooling off after Ek Balam 💎 Cenote Lol-Ha 💎 after visiting Chichén Itza, skip crowded Ik-Kil & instead venture 30min south to this beautiful open cenote— you can expect to be the only ones here! Entry is 100p & there are no amenities, but it’s worth it for the solitude. ~ best for: a quiet dip after Chichén Itzá
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