Valladolid and nearby spots
If you land in Cancun, Valladolid is an excellent starting point to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and its wonders. You can swim in the turquoise cenotes, stroll through the colorful streets of the historic center or eat delicious tacos in inexpensive restaurants. Here are some tips on Valladolid and nearby spots.
Walking in the center of Valladolid
Don’t be afraid to wander through the colorful streets of the city, without a specific route. The center is very small, so you won’t get lost. If you want to see the colorful letters VALLADOLID, you can go directly to the old convent San Bernadito de Siena. This monastery is considered one of the most important in Yucatan. Don’t forget to take a walk near the Parque Central, where the old Spanish buildings sit.
Diving in the Zaci Cenote
In the afternoon, you can take a dip in a cenote in the center of town. The entrance fee is only 30 Mexican pesos. After your morning walk in the hot and humid climate of the Yucatan, the cool water of the cenote will do you a world of good. Take with you only what you need, because there is no locker to store your stuff. Just take your swimsuit, a change of clothes, a towel and a waterproof cover for your phone.
Valladolid and nearby spots: Take a free guided tour
Meet at 7:30 pm in Valladolid’s central square for a guided tour. This is a great outing to meet other travelers and learn a little more about the Mayan and colonial history of the Mexican city. As with all so-called “free” guided tours in Latin America, it is recommended that you tip the guide.
Chichen Itza
The archaeological site of Chichen Itza is a must-see in Mexico. It is one of the seven wonders of the world. You can stay in Valladolid, and make a day trip to Chichen Itza. Leave early in the morning to avoid the crowds of tourists. The entrance fee is 420 pesos, which is quite expensive for Mexico.
Valladolid and nearby spots: Cenote Ik Kil
The cenote of Ik Kil is even nicer than the one of Zaci, even if it is much more touristic. There is a point where you can jump. The feeling of jumping into the void, the boom that your heart makes, the desire to turn back, but the will not to pass for a wimp and to regret afterwards, they all converge for a great experience.
Las Coloradas
Las Coloradas is part of the Rio Lagartos Natural Park and is located about 50 km north of Valladolid. You can get there quite easily by bus. This site is quite special, because it is not very touristy. The bus will drop you off near salt factories, not very attractive at first sight. But a few minutes away is the entrance to see the pink lake. You are obliged to take the tour with a guide, because the area is protected. The guided tour costs around 90 pesos.
