The original Capital of the Yucatan Peninsula, Valladolid today is considered the true “Heart of the Yucatan”, and all things Mayan, Spanish and Mexican.

Valladolid is known as one of the most beautiful Spanish colonial cities in the Yucatan Peninsula. From the minute you enter the historical center of town the architecture takes you away, like 500 years. And if you’re into Spanish Colonial churches, this is definitely the place. No less than four churches, and one cathedral along with their accompanying garden plazas are within walking distance of the center of town.

But, the most famous and arguably the most picturesque is the Ex-convent of San Bernardino of Siena. A walk to this beauty takes you along the “Way of the Monks” and is not to be missed, especially just before sunset.

Exactly half way between Mérida and Cancun all roads lead to, and from, Valladolid. To the North Ek Balám, Tizimin and Rio Lagartos ecological reserve and bird sanctuary. To the East, the incomparable beaches and resorts of the Mexican Caribbean. To the South, virtually untouched tropical wilderness dotted with Maya villages. To the West, the world famous archaeological zone of Chichén Itzá, the colonial cities of Ízamal, Mérida and the Gulf of Mexico.

If you’re interested in archaeological zones and the majesty of the Mayan past, Valladolid is the jumping off point. There is no city closer to more archaeological zones than Valladolid. Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam, Cobá, Yaxuná, Aké, Culubá, Xcambo just to name a few.

Likewise Valladolid is where you can stage your visits to some of the most fascinating geological occurrences on the planet, “Los Cenotes”. Cenotes are sink holes in the surface of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Because the peninsula itself is a flat ancient coral shelf consisting of porous limestone and rising a scant few feet above sea level, there are no above ground rivers. But there are underground rivers and aquifers. When the surface gives way to expose these underground water sources you have an entrance to a Cenote.

For an unforgettable swim, snorkel or scuba experience definitely plan to visit a Cenote or two. Right in the heart of Valladolid you’ll find cenote Zací. And just a few miles West, on the way to Chichén Itzá, are the Cenotes X’Keken & Dzipnup.

[back to top]