17 Best Merida Haciendas You Can Stay In & Tour [2023]

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Want to stay in a real yucatan hacienda?

You’ve come to the right place, as I live in Merida, not far from all the best Merida haciendas! From first-hand knowledge, I can tell you they are spectacular places for weddings, parties and just strolling the grounds on a Merida hacienda tour.

For the ultimate experience, you can book a stay in one of the Merida haciendas. Keep in mind that most are located 30-45 minutes by rental car outside of Downtown Merida, since they are large, sprawling estates.

For a Merida hacienda in the city, check out the hotel below ⤵

Ready to discover the 17 best Merida haciendas in Yucatan, Mexico? Let’s get to it! After you discover all the top Merida haciendas, check out the Merida travel FAQ at the end of this article so you visit Merida like a pro.

Best Merida Haciendas in Yucatan

What is a hacienda?

Similar to a plantation in the U.S., Mexican haciendas were large estates where people both lived and worked.

Typically, there were trees and plants on the grounds workers harvested as a cash crop, and large machines they used to turn these raw materials into a sellable product.

History of Merida Haciendas in Yucatan

At one time, Merida was considered one of the wealthiest cities in the world. When visiting, you’ll see this in the opulent mansions located throughout the city.

Just how was Merida such a wealthy place? One word: henequen (pronounced hen-nuh-ken).

Sisal: Green Gold

Henequen is a type of agave plant (like the one used to make tequila), native to the Yucatan Peninsula and Guatemala.

This plant has incredibly sturdy fibers, which plantation workers fashioned into a rope twine — called sisal, often referred to as “green gold.”

Sisal was the main Merida export from about the 16th Century until the early-20th Century, when synthetic fibers started replacing natural ones, and the demand for sisal vanished.

Simultaneously, haciendas became too expensive to maintain, and many abandoned them.

Luxury Haciendas in Yucatan

Today, some of these historic Yucatan haciendas have been renovated and restored — many turned into luxury hacienda hotels in Merida and the Yucatan Peninsula.

Popular for weddings, parties and events, Yucatan haciendas provide the perfect Old World ambiance.

Map of Merida Haciendas

Best Merida Hacienda Hotels

1. Hacienda Xcanatún by Angsana

⭐️ Rating: 9.4/10 |📍 Location: Xcanatún, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Just 25 minutes from Downtown Merida, La Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana has been restored to its 18th Century grandeur.

Sitting on four acres (1.62 hectares) of private gardens, it’s one of the most iconic henequen (sisal) haciendas in Yucatan.

Recently transformed into a boutique hotel, Hacienda Xcanatun has 18 suites, a pool and the Angsana Spa.

There’s onsite dining at Casa de Piedra restaurant to sample traditional Yucatan foods, and the Yax Kii bar for cocktails. This is a true Merida hacienda resort!

What past guests have said:

The atmosphere is beautiful and relaxing, outdoor pool is absolutely gorgeous. Feels like you’re swimming in ruins. The staff are very very friendly. The location is perfect. Would definitely go back.

—Faten (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

2. Hacienda Chablé Yucatán

⭐️ Rating: 9.8/10 |📍 Location: Chocholá, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Here’s why you’ll love it:

The gold standard for luxury haciendas in Yucatan, Chablé Hacienda was voted one the Top 5 International Spas in 2020 by Travel and Leisure magazine.

It was also named one of the Best Hotels & Resorts in Mexico & South America by Condé Nast Traveller magazine.

A merger of hacienda grandeur with Mayan wellness, enjoy traditional Yucatecan cuisine in IXI’IM restaurant and ancient, holistic spa treatments.

Located in the Yucatan jungle on the road from Merida to Campeche, this land shelters the largest group of deer in Yucatan 🦌

What past guests have said:

The property is really outstandingly beautiful. The remodeling of the old hacienda is superb and impeccably tasteful. It is very elegant, yet relaxed.

—Carlos (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

3. Hacienda Temozón Sur, a Luxury Collection Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10 |📍 Location: Mérida, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Once among the most productive Merida haciendas, Hacienda Temozon Sur & Hol Bé Spa is now one of the most beautiful Yucatan hacienda hotels.

Enjoy modern, first-class luxury set among 17th Century architecture, and dine at the onsite Casa Principal Restaurant and Gárgolas Bar.

What past guests have said:

The history of the place is what gives it its charm. It is a historical hacienda with all the comforts and amenities of the modern world.

—Julius (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

4. Hacienda Santa Cruz Hotel & Spa

⭐️ Rating: 8.9/10 |📍 Location: Mérida, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Hacienda Santa Cruz is 20 minutes by rental car from Downtown Merida. It provides the most authentic of all Yucatan haciendas near Merida.

Enjoy comfortable rooms, the Valentina Restaurant, gorgeous gardens, two pools and Muyal Ha Spa at one of the best Merida haciendas.

What past guests have said:

The setting is magnificent. So many old growth trees and beautiful gardens. Our room was very comfortable. The staff is very pleasant and very proud of their work. It was a very tranquil and relaxing stay.

—Trina (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

5. Hacienda Santa Rosa, a Luxury Collection Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 |📍 Location: Santa Rosa, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Here’s why you’ll love it:

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time at Hacienda Santa Rosa, as each guest suite has high, beamed ceilings, tile floors and traditional décor.

Also enjoy the large outdoor swimming pool, traditional Yucatecan cuisine in Temozon Restaurant, and cocktails at Las Gárgolas Bar.

What past guests have said:

A gorgeous and peaceful escape! The staff were amazing and attentive, the breakfast perfect! The beds are to die for… we did not want to get out!

—Jaclyn (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

6. Hacienda San Antonio Hool

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 |📍 Location: Mérida, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Hacienda San Antonio Hool was only recently opened as a hotel and event space. It combines Yucatan history and tradition, with modernity and elegance throughout the property. There are Junior Suites and Master Suites to choose from on this magical property.

What past guests have said:

Old hacienda that has been conditioned for events. The space is unbeatable, it has magnificent gardens, the bathrooms are of a good size and sufficient to cover the needs of a wide public.

—héctor medina (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

7. Hacienda San Jose, A Luxury Collection Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 9/10 |📍 Location: Tixkokob, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Located in the northern Yucatan Peninsula, this historical plantation house is near Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins. Exuding an atmosphere of the past, gracefully cut flower arches and stone pathways welcome you to Hacienda San Jose.

Guests can enjoy the treatments in the Hacienda San Jose Tixkokob Spa, outdoor pool, bicycles to get around the hacienda, Yucatan food cooking classes with celebrated chefs, and more. There are plenty of Yucatan cenotes near this hacienda, easily accessible by rental car.

What past guests have said:

Charming and well preserved hacienda with amazing garden. The staff is just amazing, they anticipate your needs and are very kind and friendly, definitely recommend.

—Nadia (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

8. Hacienda Misné

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 |📍 Location: Mérida, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Expedia

Here’s why you’ll love it:

At Hacienda Misné, you’re transported into an oasis of peace and relaxation. Pebbled paths with lush flowers and old growth trees welcome you — all just 15 minutes by rental car from both Downtown Merida and Merida International Airport.

This 18th Century hacienda from colonial times has been completely updated, but in a way that respects the original architecture. Relax in a completely private setting, dine at Hacienda Misné restaurant, and enjoy ancient holistic treatments at the Mayan Spa.

What past guests have said:

Beautiful, secluded property and a great place to ‘chill’. Everyone, groundskeepers, waiters, and front desk personnel, were very kind, helpful and friendly.

—Diana (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

9. Hacienda San Antonio Millet

⭐️ Rating: 10/10 |📍 Location: Tixkokob, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Here’s why you’ll love it:

This historic hacienda still has the original buildings constructed in 1667. Guests can enjoy al fresco dining, the swimming pool, in-room spa services, and the gorgeous gardens and grounds at Hacienda San Antonio Millet.

Located in Tixkokob, you’re also near the Aké Mayan Ruins, Yaax-ha Cenote and Pueblo Pibil. This restaurant was featured on the Netflix show, Taco Chronicles, in Season 2, Episode 2, titled “Cochinita Pibil.” Considered one of the best Yucatan foods, this is a great place to sample it.

What past guests have said:

Beautiful, relaxing, perfect and friendly service; really paradise.

—Oliver (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

10. Hacienda Viva Sotuta de Peón

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 |📍 Location: Timucuy, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Expedia

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Hacienda Sotuta de Peón is a place with a lot to do — including riding ATVs through the jungle, swimming in Cenote Dzul Ha, located underground in a cave, and touring the grounds of this fully-restored hacienda on a horse carriage.

Enjoy stand-along bungalows, offering privacy for guests, which all have air conditioning, mini bar, outdoor patio and/or a balcony. There’s also a poolside bar, cafe-style restaurant, spa services and complimentary breakfast each morning.

What past guests have said:

Wonderful experience, we went for two nights with friends, lovely staff, great food and the tour of the Hacienda, including a swim in a gorgeous cenote…

—Laura (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

11. Hacienda Petac

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 |📍 Location: Petac, Yucatán | 🏩 View on TripAdvisor

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Right off the bat: Hacienda Petac only hosts one group at a time, so if this is the Merida hacienda for you — book ASAP!

With a personal staff who just attends to you and your guests, exquisite surroundings, and exceptional dining in the on-site restaurant, this is the crown jewel of Mexico retreats. There are seven bedrooms, all with luxurious bathrooms and a traditional Mexican Hacienda esthetic.

What past guests have said:

We were lucky to have the opportunity to stay at Hacienda Petac, and we can not wait to return. Every detail is well thought out making your stay personal, special, and magical.

—lasslaby (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

12. Hacienda Katanchel Mérida

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5 |📍 Location: Tixkokob, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Expedia

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Located between Merida and the “Yellow City” of Izamal, immerse yourself in Yucatan nature at this 17th Century Yucatan hacienda. There’s a pool, on-site restaurant and spa to get massages and other services. 🐶 Traveling with a pet? Hacienda Katanchel is pet friendly!

What past guests have said:

As soon as you enter this place you get automatically disconnected from the outside world. Walking around the garden is worth the trip by itself but staying the night is a magical experience for a very reasonable price.

—Javier Morales (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

13. Hacienda Sac Chich & Casa Sisal

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5 |📍 Location: Acanceh, Yucatán | 🏩 View on TripAdvisor

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Hacienda Sac Chich is just 35 minutes from Merida — yet it can feel like it’s a world away. Tucked away in the lush Yucatan jungle, this hacienda is equal parts Old World charm and award-winning contemporary architecture with modern conveniences.

An exclusive property, this hacienda only accommodates up to 21 guests at a time in its three separate lodging areas, Casa de Maquinas, Casa Sisal and La Casita Caliza. There’s also a rooftop lounge with a stargazing platform, bocce ball court, central pool and massage area.

What past guests have said:

Beyond belief. Serene. Relaxing. Didn’t want to leave.

—Kate C. (more reviews)

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

14. Hotel Hacienda Ticum

⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10 |📍 Location: Ekmul, Yucatán | 🏩 View on Booking

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Hotel Hacienda Ticum provides more of a rustic experience than the other Merida haciendas on this list. There’s still plenty of private grounds and gardens to enjoy, as well as a pool and quaint, private bungalows in the Yucatan jungle.

What past guests have said:

The colonial bungalows are great and very beautiful. Excellent food, 3 pools to choose from. We even tried the massage, it was a great experience.

—Antonio (more reviews)

Best Merida Haciendas in Yucatan

Best Merida Hacienda Tours

Looking for the best haciendas near Merida Mexico to visit on a tour? There are a few hacienda tour Merida options, so you don’t have to book for an overnight stay. Below, you’ll find the best haciendas in Yucatan you can visit on a Merida tour ⤵

15. Cenotes Hacienda Mucuyché

The grounds of this 18th Century hacienda have been left in semi-ruin, but that’s all part of the effect. Hacienda Mucuyche and its cenotes are gorgeous, and kind of look like the Garden of Eden meets the Blue Lagoon!

In addition to the rustic Yucatan hacienda vibes, there’s two cenotes onsite, Cenote Carlota and Cenote Azul Maya. They are super refreshing to jump in for a swim after your guided tour of the grounds — and among the best cenotes near Merida.

16. Hacienda Yaxcopoil

Hacienda Yaxcopoil (pronounced yash-coe-poe-ill) was built in the 17th Century, circa 1650. It has been fully restored, and is known as one of the prettiest and best haciendas in Merida Yucatan.

Besides tours (see below ⤵), there’s a small casita (guest house) you can rent for overnight stays.

The inside of the house itself is basically a museum to the Old World. From the outside, you can tour the beautiful grounds and see all the large-scale machinery used to make Merida’s main export — sisal.

17. Hacienda San Ildefonso Teya

During the 17th Century, Hacienda San Ildefonso Teya was one of the largest, most profitable cattle ranches in Yucatán, and later, part of the 19th Century henequen boom. Today, it’s one of the most popular Merida hacienda wedding venues.

Located only 30 minutes from Downtown Merida, many also visit the onsite Hacienda Teya restaurant. Known for its Yucatecan cuisine, sample classic local dishes like papadzules, sopa de lima, cochinita pibil and queso relleno.

Best Merida Haciendas in Yucatan

BONUS: Best Yucatan Haciendas Near Merida

The Merida haciendas listed above are all located within an hour of the city. However, there are authentic Mexican haciendas in Yucatan a bit further out. Have a look at some of your options below — located in Merida’s neighboring states of Campeche and Quintana Roo.

Hacienda Chichen & Yaxkin Spa

Located near Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins, Hacienda Chichen is a wonderful place to stay if you’re looking for an oasis near the ruins. You’re also right next to Cenote Ik-Kil, one of the most beautiful Mexico cenotes, and the charming Valladolid pueblo magico (magic town).

Hacienda Uayamon, A Luxury Collection Hotel

Campeche State is the least-visited of the three Yucatan Peninsula states — which means you get the most peace and quiet, and the least amount of tourists! For off the beaten path travel, book this hacienda and check out the Mayan Ruins in Campeche, like Calakmul, Becan and Edzna.

Hacienda Puerta Campeche, A Luxury Collection Hotel

Located in the heart of colorful Campeche City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hacienda Puerta Campeche ranks as one of the hands-down best hotels in Campeche, Mexico! Here, you’re within walking distance of all the best things to do in Campeche City.

Coqui Coqui Coba (Papholchac)

Located near the city of Tulum and the Coba Ruins, one of the best Mayan Ruins of Mexico, you’ll find Coqui Coqui Papholchac. This gorgeous, renovated hacienda, is one of the most exclusive Yucatan hacienda hotels — providing a bucket list experience and stay for its guests.

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

Where is Merida, Mexico?

Merida is in the Yucatan Peninsula, a region comprising three states — Quintana Roo state (home to Tulum, Cancun, Playa del Carmen and more), Yucatan state and Campeche state. The Yucatan Peninsula is located in southeastern Mexico.

Merida mexico map

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

How to get to the Merida Haciendas

Now that you know which of the best Merida hacienda you want to stay in and visit, you’re probably wondering how to get to them.

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, you have options to use two international airports — Cancun Airport (code: CUN) and Merida Airport (code: MID).

✈️ If you’re flying into Cancun International Airport instead of Merida Airport, use this Cancun to Merida guide to find out the best way to get to Merida from Cancun.

How do I travel to Merida, Mexico?

Wondering about flights to Merida? Merida International Airport (code: MID) is located only about 20 minutes from downtown. ▶︎ Find Merida flights now!

There are direct flights to Merida, Mexico, from only a few cities in the U.S., like Miami and Houston.

For most travelers, it’s usually easier to catch a connecting flight to MID from Mexico City International Airport or Guadalajara International Airport., or travel from Cancun to Merida.

Merida Car Rental

As the vast majority of Merida haciendas are located in remote places just outside of the city, a rental car really is the way to go. When renting a car in Merida, I both recommend, and personally use Discover Cars. ▶︎ Book now with Discover Cars 🚙💨

When getting your Merida rental car, the airport is the best place to get it. From there, you can drive directly to the hacienda in Merida you’re staying in during your vacation.

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

Merida Travel Guide & FAQ

Is Merida safe?

The #1 and #2 most asked questions about Merida I get are these: Can you drink the water? and Is Merida Mexico safe for travelers?

Given the media’s portrayal of Mexico, it has a bad wrap. However, as a large country, yes, Mexico has parts you should avoid — but Merida isn’t one of them.

In fact, Merida is known as the safest city in Mexico. Beyond Merida, the entire Yucatan Peninsula is considered as safe as Europe.

Mexico travel insurance for Merida

Wondering, Should I get travel insurance for Mexico? Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.

If safety is on your mind during these strange travel times — get your FREE Mexico travel insurance quote from the companies below.

• ✅ World Nomads is one of the top names in travel insurance. They have a Standard Plan and the Explorer Plan, which cover both general travelers and adventurous travelers. Plans average $5-10USD per day. ▶︎ Get Your FREE Quote!
• ✅ Safety Wing provides the best coverage for digital nomads and long-term travelers; plans start at just $40USD per month! ▶︎ Get Your FREE Quote!

What’s the best time to visit Merida?

The best time of year to visit Merida, Mexico is from October to March, when the Merida weather is cooler. May is often the hottest month, and even us Merida expats and locals dread May! Located in the tropics, it rains pretty much daily during the peak of Merida’s rainy season, June to September.

Like much of Mexico, December is the busiest month in Merida. However, December is also a festive and fun time to visit with city-wide festivals to enjoy, in addition to nice weather. The worst months to visit Merida are April to August, when it’s very hot and humid (even for us locals 🥵).

Weather in Merida, Mexico: Average Temperatures

best merida haciendas in Yucatan

Places to Visit & Things to do in Merida

There are many Merida things to do besides haciendas! Below you’ll find a rundown of the things you won’t want to miss while traveling to Merida, Mexico.

Centro Historico (Downtown)

Downtown Merida, or Centro Historico, is the oldest, most historic part of town. It’s the central hub of all the town’s activity, where you’ll find plenty of city-wide events, great shopping, fascinating museums, grand buildings, historic monuments, and the best restaurants in Merida!

MERIDA PARKS ini Downtown

There are many great parks in Centro Historico, perfect for taking a break from walking around to sit, relax and people-watch. Some of the best Merida parks include Plaza Grande, Parque Santa Ana, Parque Santa Lucia, Parque Santiago, Parque Hidalgo and Parque La Mejorada.

Yucatan Beaches Near Merida

Merida is about 30 miles (48 km) from the nearest beach, which is Puerto Progreso. However, it’s not the only one of the beaches near Merida along the Costa Esmeralda (Emerald Coast). Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, you have plenty of beaches to choose from.

Merida Cenotes

Cenotes are essentially natural, freshwater jungle pools. You’ll find them throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, with some of the best cenotes in Mexico located near Merida. Check out this list of the 30 Best Merida Cenotes You Must Visit while on your trip.

Museums in Merida

History buffs and art lovers will love the Merida museums! To see Mayan artifacts, head to Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Merida Mayan Museum); for art, there’s Museo Casa Montejo, Museo Palacio Canton, Museo de la Ciudad de Mérida and Museo Fernando García Ponce (MACAY).

Shopping in Merida

Wondering what to buy in Merida? Check out this list of the best Yucatan souvenirs you can get while going some Merida shopping. On it, you’ll find product recommendations, as well as where to buy them in local Merida shops. There’s also a list of the best malls in Merida in the article.

Mayan Ruins Near Merida

Merida is considered the Cultural Capital of Yucatan, as it’s one of the best places on Earth to immerse yourself in Mayan culture. One of the ways to do this is by visiting the best Mayan Ruins near Merida, including Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Final Thoughts: Best Merida Haciendas in Yucatan

Merida is a special city — and not just because I live in it! From colorful Colonial architecture, to amazing Yucatan food, Mayan ruins, boutique shopping, amazing day trips from Merida, nearby Merida beaches, and even pink lakes, it’s hard to not fall for Merida.

Though it’s an amazing city overall, picking where to stay in Merida can either make, or break, your trip. All the Merida haciendas on this list provide an amazing stay that you’ll never forget! Even if you’re just visiting on Merida hacienda tours, you’ll love these charming places.

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