Things to do in Santa Elena

Activities, attractions and tours

A historic church with a large arched entrance and two bell towers.
A large stone wall with intricate carvings and a rough, uneven ground.
A large ancient Mayan pyramid complex with multiple structures, surrounded by dense vegetation.
A large pyramid structure with a staircase leading to the top, surrounded by a grassy area and a clear blue sky.
A large, historic brick building with arched windows and a prominent tower.

Things to do

Turibus Panoramic Sightseeing Tour of Merida

Merida: Panoramic Sightseeing Bus Tour

P618
per adult
74% of travellers recommend
Merida: Panoramic Sightseeing Bus Tour
Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida

Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida

P7,054
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida
Uxmal & Kabah mayan ruins tour from Merida

Uxmal and Kabah Ruins Tour with Chocolate History

P6,505
per adult
Uxmal and Kabah Ruins Tour with Chocolate History
Mérida: Panoramic Sightseeing Tour Bus Ticket with 2 Routes

Mérida: Panoramic Sightseeing Tour Bus Ticket with 2 Routes

P618
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Mérida: Panoramic Sightseeing Tour Bus Ticket with 2 Routes
Motul, Hacienda, Xcambo, Pink Salt Mine & Progreso Day Trip

Motul, Hacienda, Xcambo, Pink Salt Mine & Progreso Day Trip

P6,019
per adult
Motul, Hacienda, Xcambo, Pink Salt Mine & Progreso Day Trip
4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida

4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida

P5,060
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida
Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida

Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida

P6,235
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida
Uxmal, two Amazing Cenotes & Local Food Tour from Mérida

Uxmal, two Amazing Cenotes & Local Food Tour from Mérida

P5,646
per adult
Uxmal, two Amazing Cenotes & Local Food Tour from Mérida
Tour to Uxmal Kabah and Chocolate Museum from Mérida

Tour to Uxmal Kabah and Chocolate Museum from Mérida

P4,824
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Tour to Uxmal Kabah and Chocolate Museum from Mérida
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What to do in Santa Elena

Stay near popular Santa Elena attractions

A stone staircase leading up to a pyramid-like structure with intricate carvings.

Uxmal Archaeological Site

9.8/5 (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.
A stone building with intricate carvings and three doorways.

Uxmal

Historic sites, archaeological sites, and restaurants are some highlights of Uxmal. Make a stop by Uxmal Archaeological Site or House of the Turtles 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.