Loltún Caves
Explore the vast Loltún Caves, a subterranean marvel of geological formations and ancient Mayan art, offering a journey through time.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Loltún Caves
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the vast Loltún Caves, a subterranean marvel of geological formations and ancient Mayan art, offering a journey through time.
"A shame such a beautiful place is closed!"
Confirm Opening Status
Many reviews mention closures. Always check current status before visiting! :warning:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Dome
Main cave chamber
Marvel at the immense natural dome, a breathtaking testament to geological artistry.
The "Elephant's Foot"
Specific formation within the caves
Discover unique stalagmites and stalactites, including the famous 'Elephant's Foot'.
Ancient Mayan Art
Cave walls
See ancient Mayan paintings and carvings, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Status Before You Go
Book Your Visit in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Opening Status
Many reviews mention closures. Always check current status before visiting! :warning:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially during longer tours. :water_wave:
Consider a Guided Tour
Guides offer historical context and point out hidden gems. :guide_dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Opening Status
Many reviews mention closures. Always check current status before visiting! :warning:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially during longer tours. :water_wave:
Consider a Guided Tour
Guides offer historical context and point out hidden gems. :guide_dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Loltún Caves are a breathtaking natural and historical site, praised for their immense geological formations and ancient Mayan art. However, visitors frequently report issues with closures, leading to disappointment. It's crucial to verify operating status before planning a visit.
"Still closed since the pandemic"
Andrea Alcocer
"It is closed and the INAH does nothing to make it available for visits."
Cecilia Ortiz Bullé Goyri
"It is closed, according to what they say, since the pandemic 😞"
Jessica Medina Acuña
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Loltún Caves are located about an hour's drive from Mérida. Renting a car is the most convenient option, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Some tours from Mérida may also include transportation. :car:
While less common, some organized tours from Mérida might offer transportation. Public transport is not a practical option for reaching the caves directly. :bus:
The drive from Mérida to Loltún Caves is approximately 1 hour. :clock3:
Yes, Loltún Caves are often visited in conjunction with other haciendas or cenotes in the Yucatán region, offering a full day of exploration. :sparkles:
Renting a car and combining the visit with other nearby sites like Hacienda Mucuyché makes for an excellent day trip from Mérida. :round_pushpin:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's essential to check the official website or contact them for the most current pricing. Some sources mention around $690 MXN for non-Yucatecans and $490 MXN for Yucatecans. :moneybag:
It's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season, to ensure entry and avoid potential disappointment. :ticket:
Opening hours can change, and it's crucial to verify them before your visit. Many visitors recommend arriving in the morning to make the most of your day. :calendar:
Visitors should be aware that the caves have experienced closures. Always confirm current accessibility and any specific entry requirements. :informationdeskperson:
Yes, there is often a discounted rate for residents of Yucatán. Be prepared to show proof of residency. :flag_mx:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find impressive geological formations like the 'Great Dome' and the 'Elephant's Foot,' as well as ancient Mayan paintings and carvings. :camerawithflash:
A guided tour of Loltún Caves usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time to explore the main chambers and learn about the history. :hourglassflowingsand:
The caves involve walking on uneven terrain, so it's best suited for children who can walk independently. Younger children might require carriers. :child:
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good to check for any specific rules or restrictions on flash photography, as it can sometimes be prohibited to protect the formations. :iphone:
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, light clothing, and perhaps a light jacket as the cave temperature can be cooler than outside. :sneaker:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically no dining facilities directly within the Loltún Caves. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit. :forkandknife:
While water is usually permitted, it's best to confirm policies on bringing outside food. Many visitors opt to pack snacks. :apple:
Dining options are limited near the caves themselves. Mérida offers a wide array of restaurants, or you might find local eateries in nearby towns. :restaurant:
Yes, it's a good idea to have a meal before your tour, as the experience can be quite extensive and you'll want to be energized. :pizza:
For specific dietary needs, your best bet is to dine in Mérida, where you'll find a broader selection of restaurants catering to various preferences. :leafy_green:
📸 📸 Photography
Every chamber offers unique photographic opportunities, from the vast domes to intricate stalactites and ancient Mayan art. :camera:
Flash photography is often prohibited inside caves to preserve the delicate formations and ancient artwork. Always check with your guide. :no_flash:
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the caves, and a camera with good low-light performance is beneficial. :dslr_camera:
Tripods may be restricted to avoid obstructing pathways or damaging formations. It's best to confirm this policy beforehand. :tripod:
Don't miss capturing the 'Great Dome' and the unique 'Elephant's Foot' formation, as well as any visible Mayan petroglyphs. :star2:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water and snacks, as options inside are scarce. Emphasize the importance of not touching the cave formations to your children to help preserve this natural wonder. The historical aspect, with Mayan paintings, can also be a great educational element for older kids.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to save money on dining expenses. While the entrance fee is a factor, the experience offers significant value for its historical and geological insights. Compare tour prices if you opt for organized transport.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of photography rules; flash is often prohibited to protect the delicate environment. Always check with your guide about any restrictions on tripods or specific areas. The interplay of light and shadow within the caves creates dramatic and memorable shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Wonders of Loltún Caves
Exploring Loltún is an adventure through geological time. The formations are not just visually stunning but also tell a story of the Earth's processes. Visitors often express awe at the sheer size and complexity of these natural sculptures. The cool, constant temperature inside the caves provides a welcome respite from the Yucatán heat, making the exploration comfortable.
It's important to remember that these formations are fragile. Guides often emphasize the need to avoid touching any part of the cave walls or formations to preserve them for future generations. The slow growth of these geological wonders means any damage can be irreversible.
Echoes of the Past: Mayan History at Loltún
One of the most fascinating aspects is the evidence of Mayan habitation and rituals. The presence of these ancient markings suggests that Loltún was more than just a natural wonder; it was a sacred space. The historical context adds a profound layer to the visitor experience, transforming a natural exploration into a journey through time.
When visiting, pay close attention to the details pointed out by your guide. Understanding the symbolism and context of these ancient artworks enhances the appreciation of the Mayan civilization's ingenuity and spiritual connection to their environment.
Planning Your Loltún Caves Adventure
Comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll be walking on uneven and sometimes damp surfaces. Light, breathable clothing is advisable due to the cave's cooler, humid environment. Bringing water and snacks is also a good idea, as amenities inside the caves are limited.
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat and potentially larger tour groups. A guided tour is highly recommended, as guides provide fascinating historical and geological context that you might otherwise miss.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit