What 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.

Places to Visit in Santa Elena

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Santa Elena, Mérida while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Santa Elena attractions from NZ$101, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Santa Elena tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 29 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Santa Elena. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

Activities

Mérida: Panoramic Sightseeing Tour Bus Ticket with 2 Routes

Mérida: Panoramic Sightseeing Tour Bus Ticket with 2 Routes

NZ$17
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Mérida: Panoramic Sightseeing Tour Bus Ticket with 2 Routes
Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida

Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida

NZ$196
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida
4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida

4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida

NZ$141
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida
Tour to Uxmal Kabah and Chocolate Museum from Mérida

Tour to Uxmal Kabah and Chocolate Museum from Mérida

NZ$134
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Tour to Uxmal Kabah and Chocolate Museum from Mérida
Motul, Hacienda, Xcambo, Pink Salt Mine & Progreso Day Trip

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

NZ$169
per adult
Motul, Hacienda, Xcambo, Pink Salt Mine & Progreso Day Trip
Uxmal & Kabah mayan ruins tour from Merida

Uxmal and Kabah Ruins Tour with Chocolate History

NZ$182
per adult
Uxmal and Kabah Ruins Tour with Chocolate History
Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida

Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida

NZ$174
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida
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Recommended things to do in Santa Elena

Number of things to do
29
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Uxmal Explore the Ancient Maya City with a Certified Guide: NZ$101
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

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

9.8/10 (195 reviews)
Learn about the local history of Santa Elena with a stop at Uxmal Archaeological Site. While in this relaxing area, you can savour the local chocolate shops and restaurants.
See properties

Our guide on where to stay in Santa Elena

Find the best Santa Elena areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A stone building with intricate carvings and three doorways.

Uxmal

Historical 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.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Santa Elena

A monument at dusk with light trails from vehicles on the road.

Mérida

A large stone structure with intricate carvings and a stepped platform.

Muna

A building with a pink facade and white arches, a bicycle with a cargo rack, and palm trees in the background.

Calkini

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 traveller on a budget. Roam the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask a local tour guide for tips.