Mucuyché

Mucuyché is a tiny town of fewer than 500 residents almost entirely centered around the old Hacienda of the same name. That Mayan language name could be translated as dove tree or perhaps, tree of doves. The old hacienda was dedicated to agriculture and especially to producing henequin to which much of the region was likewise dedicated. And while the few rather grand buildings are largely in ruins, they can still be visited on a tour that is remarkably comprehensive.

More importantly, the old hacienda hid a few outstanding cenotes and even underground flooded caves. These remain the most important reason people visit today. In fact, during the Mexican Empire period (1863-1867), the Empress Carlota visited the hacienda, then at the height of its splendor. At the time she was herself a mere 25 years old. She commented on the furnishings of the hacienda itself, and is said to have even swum in one of the cenotes. It bears her name to this day. 

While tours can include the entire area, most visitors are anxious to get into the water. That's included in the package prices. There's a fantastic restaurant on site, as well as some other services. In the surrounding country, a number of other old establishments will also rent you a room for the night. It's a fantastic landscape, and one that is only made that much brighter by the hidden cenotes and the secrets they bear within. 

People generally arrive to Mucuyché from Merida, about one hour to the north. In truth, the Mérida Teya station of the Tren Maya maybe a little closer. There are also combis in service for most of the route from Maxcanú. It's about one hour to the west. It's a fantastic place to visit, and it is seldom crowded. Like a lot of places on the peninsula, you can have it practically to yourself on weekdays.