Izamal: The Magic Yellow Town - Private Full Day Tour from Merida

Izamal is known as «The City of the 3 Cultures», and this private full-day tour from Merida is built around its yellow streets. The listed duration is 420 minutes. You visit the historic Convento de San Antonio de Padua, three Mayan pyramids, a cultural museum, the main square and a jewelry workshop, in a blend of prehispanic, colonial and modern influences.

The day starts at the lobby of your hotel in Merida, where the team picks you up for the drive to Izamal, about an hour away. The convent, the fifth to be built in what is now the state of Yucatan, was constructed between 1549 and 1561 and is described as a building raised on top of a Mayan structure, reusing its stones.

In the archaeological zone you see three pyramids located within the town itself: Itzamatul, Kinich Kakmó and Hun Pik Toc. The itinerary explains that many Spanish buildings in conquered cities went up over existing Mayan pyramids, a common practice that was also used to evangelize the Mayan population.

After the town and the pyramids you go to the Cultural Center Museum, the Izamal square and a jewelry workshop, where you try a hands-on activity using cocoyol and henequen thorns. There is also a one-hour stop for lunch at Kinich Restaurant. The aim, says the operator, is to let you learn about the people of Izamal, their traditions, history and identity.

The final stretch takes you back to your hotel in Merida, or to a drop-off in Izamal if you prefer. The tour is described as suitable for all ages and all physical fitness levels, which makes it a workable option for families or mixed groups. Public transportation options are available nearby.

Inclusions cover private transportation, a certified tour guide, minibar and snacks, travel insurance during transportation, and the entrance fees to the Cultural Museum and the jewelry workshop. Food and drinks and gratuities are listed as not included, which appears to refer to what is beyond the snacks and the lunch stop, so confirm with the operator who pays for the meal at Kinich.