Puuc Hills & the South
Loltún Caves Tours
A Loltún Caves tour goes underground in the Puuc Hills to a cave system that was used by Maya people for thousands of years and now has guided walking tours. It suits families, history fans and anyone who likes cool air on a hot day.
Loltún Caves tour options
Loltún is part of the southern Puuc Route and sits near Oxkutzcab. Most tours pair it with Labná or Sayil, so a day includes ruins above ground and caves below.
Most travellers choose between a shared small-group Loltún Caves trip and a private tour. Shared departures keep the cost down and run on a set schedule; a private vehicle lets you leave when you like and add stops on the way. When you ask about a Loltún Caves tour, tell us your hotel and dates.
- Shared small-group trip from Mérida
- Private tour with your own driver and guide
- Loltún with the Labná arch and a lunch stop in Oxkutzcab
What you'll see in Loltún Caves
The cave is a long, winding limestone system with large chambers, stalactites and openings that let in shafts of daylight. Guides lead you through galleries decorated with ancient hand imprints, petroglyphs and painted marks, plus traces of Maya ceramics and tools.
Loltún means flower of stone. A highlight is the chamber where the guide briefly turns off the lights to show total darkness, and the large natural openings to the sky. Photos are generally possible, but check the current rules.
- Large galleries and stalactites
- Ancient hand imprints and carvings
- Natural skylight openings
- Guide-led darkness demonstration
Sample Loltún Caves tour itinerary
One way the day can run. We adjust times to your pickup point and pace.
- 8:00 Pickup in Mérida
- 10:00 Arrive at Loltún and join the guided tour
- 11:15 Drive to Labná
- 12:00 Labná arch and palace
- 13:30 Lunch in Oxkutzcab
- 15:30 Return to Mérida
Loltún Caves tour prices
Typical market prices, not fixed rates: small-group Loltún Caves tours from Mérida usually cost about US$55–95 per person, while a private car and guide for two runs about US$210–300. Cave entry and guide fees are sometimes paid on arrival.
A quote for a Loltún Caves tour will show exactly what is included.
| Option | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small-group tour | US$55–95 per person | Shared van, fixed schedule |
| Private car and guide (2 people) | US$210–300 | Flexible start and stops |
| Boat or entry costs | Entry about MXN 200–250 (2026) | Check whether included in your quote |
Best time to visit Loltún Caves
Caves stay about the same temperature all year, so Loltún is a good option in hot weather or light rain. Tours are less crowded on weekdays and in the morning.
The route involves some stairs and uneven floors, and surfaces can be damp.
Getting to Loltún Caves
Loltún is about 110 km south of Mérida, roughly 1 h 45 min by road, past Muna and Ticul. A private vehicle is the easiest way to combine it with other stops.
Tours are led by local guides at set times, so we plan your arrival to match.
What to bring
Pack light, but do not skip the basics: These details help when you are choosing dates for a Loltún Caves tour.
- Closed shoes with grip
- Light jacket for the cool air
- Water
- Cash for entry and guide tips
- Insect repellent for the grounds
Loltún Caves tour FAQs
Want this trip planned for you?
Tell us your dates, group size and where you are staying. We check availability with local guides and send back a price.