Things to do in Santa Elena

Activities, attractions and tours

An ancient pyramid structure with surrounding ruins, set against a clear blue sky.
A large stone pyramid with a flat top, surrounded by a stone wall and a tree.
A large pyramid structure with a staircase leading to the top, surrounded by a grassy area and a clear blue sky.
A Mayan ruin with large stone structures and a pyramid, surrounded by dense forest.
A large pyramid structure with a flat top and steep sides, surrounded by a grassy area and trees.

Things to do

Turibus Panoramic Sightseeing Tour of Merida

Merida: Panoramic Sightseeing Bus Tour Ticket with 2 routes.

P599
per adult
74% of travellers recommend
Merida: Panoramic Sightseeing Bus Tour Ticket with 2 routes.
Celestún Biosphere Tour: Flamingos & Beach Day from Mérida

Celestún Biosphere Tour: Flamingos & Beach Day from Mérida

P4,110
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Celestún Biosphere Tour: Flamingos & Beach Day from Mérida
Isla Columpios & Progreso Day Trip

Isla Columpios, Corchito & Progreso Day Tour

P5,026
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Isla Columpios, Corchito & Progreso Day Tour
Mérida: Panoramic Sightseeing Tour Bus Ticket with 2 Routes

Mérida México: Panoramic Sightseeing City Tour with 2 Routes

P599
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Mérida México: Panoramic Sightseeing City Tour with 2 Routes
Uxmal & Kabah mayan ruins tour from Merida

Uxmal and Kabah Ruins Tour with Chocolate History

P6,807
per adult
Uxmal and Kabah Ruins Tour with Chocolate History
Chichen Itza, Cenote & Izamal Magic Town with Buffet Lunch from Merida

Chichen Itza, Cenote & Izamal Magic Town with Buffet Lunch from Mérida

P7,952
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Chichen Itza, Cenote & Izamal Magic Town with Buffet Lunch from Mérida
The red ones

Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida

P6,847
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida
From Mérida:Uxmal and amazing cenotes guided tour with lunch

From Mérida: Uxmal and amazing cenotes guided tour with lunch

P5,994
per adult
From Mérida: Uxmal and amazing cenotes guided tour with lunch
Chichen Pueblos Magicos, Izamal + Valladolid Day Trip

Chichen Itza, Izamal & Noolha Cenote Day Trip - Traditional Lunch Included

P7,570
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Chichen Itza, Izamal & Noolha Cenote Day Trip - Traditional Lunch Included
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What to do in Santa Elena

Stay near popular Santa Elena attractions

An ancient stone structure with stepped platforms and a large open courtyard.

Uxmal Archaeological Site

9.8/10 (195 reviews)
Learn about the local history of Santa Elena when you take a trip to Uxmal Archaeological Site. While in this relaxing area, you can savor the local chocolate shops and restaurants.
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Where to stay in Santa Elena

Find the best Santa Elena areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
Ancient stone steps leading to a large building with intricate carvings.

Uxmal

Historic sites, archaeological sites, and restaurants are some highlights of Uxmal. Make a stop by Pyramid of the Magician or Uxmal Archaeological Site while you're exploring.

A dense forest with a small, dilapidated structure on a hill.
Photo by Vanessa Sgaravizzi
Open Photo by Vanessa Sgaravizzi

Sayil

Sayil is well-liked for its museums. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in and around the larger Santa Elena area, you might plan a trip to Eco Museum of Cacao.

A cave with stalactites and stalagmites, a water stream, and people exploring.

Oxkutzcab

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Elena worth visiting?
With a blend of culture and history, there's no shortage of things to do in Santa Elena. When you're here, visit Grutas de Loltún, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Santa Elena?
Kick your day off with a visit to Grutas de Loltún and Palacio del Gobernador. Then, check out different parts of Santa Elena for local dining and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Elena?
The top tourist attraction in Santa Elena is Grutas de Loltún, so be sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Elena?
If you just want to see the most popular sights, three days will be a good amount of time for a break in Santa Elena. Book for seven to ten days for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby hotspots and explore some hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Santa Elena with kids?
If you're searching for activities and attractions for all ages, here are some fabulous ideas for what to do in Santa Elena with kids.

What to do in Santa Elena for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or adventure seeker, there are loads of things to do in Santa Elena for adults including Museo de Cacao.
Are there free things to do in Santa Elena?
You don't need to spend big to enjoy a memorable getaway here. There are loads of fun things to do in Santa Elena for the traveler on a budget. Roam the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask a local tour guide for tips.