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Trip Report
Embark on an Unforgettable Journey to Palenque and Homun: Unveiling Mexico's Ancient Mysteries and Natural Wonders
2 months in Mexico and here is my favourites and recommendations you can't miss out on for your time in Mex!
+ 5
North AmericaMexico9 days / February - March 2023
Highs & Lows
Insane Cenotes in Homùn
Low level of Spanish, brush up on your Spanish!
Itinerary Overview
Two months in Mexico, out of the 9 places we visited, these are my top two picks and must see places.
Discover the allure of Palenque and Homun, two hidden gems nestled in Mexico's rich landscape. Palenque takes you on a journey through time with its ancient Mayan ruins, nestled amidst verdant rainforests. Explore the intricately carved structures and immerse yourself in the captivating history of this archaeological site.
In contrast, Homun unveils the natural beauty of Mexico through its mesmerizing cenotes. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of these enchanting sinkholes, swim, snorkel, and marvel at the unique underground formations. Homun offers a refreshing escape and a chance to connect with nature in a truly magical setting.
Whether you're unraveling the mysteries of Palenque or discovering the hidden wonders of Homun's cenotes, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences. Embrace the allure of Mexico's ancient past and embrace the natural beauty of its cenotes for a journey that will leave you in awe.
- Palenque (6 days)
Visit:
- Roberto Barrios Falls
- Palenque Ruins
Stay:
- Cabanas Kim Balam (buy food in Palenque city or you will have to eat at the restaurant!)
- Homún (3 days)
Visit:
- Literally any of the Cenotes (hire an ATV or driver to take you)
Stay:
- Hospedaje Papagrande
Homún Unveiling the Undiscovered Gems of Homun: A Serene Retreat with Flavorful Delights
1+📍Homún
To do:
- Literally so so many cenotes and so affordable in comparison to Tulum and Cancun. We hired an ATV and drove around to 10 over two days and had most of them to ourselves. Worth it if you don’t want to pay for a tour in Tulum / Cancun area and enjoy the serenity!
Eat:
- Good places all around the city to try some traditional Yucatán foods, ask the restaurant staff their favourite and order it! Has never disappointed us. We loved cochinita pibil & queso relleno 🤤
Homun captivated me with its serene cenotes and mouthwatering Yucatán cuisine, offering an affordable and authentic experience. Unlike the bustling tourist spots of Tulum and Cancun, Homun's tranquil cenotes remain undiscovered gems. Exploring around 10 of these natural wonders, I marveled at their untouched beauty and enjoyed the serenity they offered. As for the culinary scene, Homun boasts a variety of local restaurants serving traditional Yucatán dishes. Cochinita pibil, a succulent slow-roasted pork, and queso relleno, a delightful stuffed cheese dish, were among my favorites. Homun provides an idyllic setting for affordable exploration and a chance to savor the authentic flavors of Yucatán.
Palenque Time to relax amongst nature.
1+📍Palenque
- Roberto Barrios fall
- So unbelievably beautiful. If there happens to be a tour there or locals, keep an eye out if any of them are using the natural waterslide in to the big lagoon at the bottom or any of the safe spots to jump, so fun!
- Palenque Ruins
- Walking around the ruins itself is tiring and hot but, so worth it! There are jungle walks you can do on your own, best to ask one of the workers at the reception desk where to go, rather than the men offering private and expensive tours.
Palenque, Mexico, left me in awe with its natural wonders and historical marvels. Roberto Barrios Falls mesmerized me with its breathtaking beauty, and I was thrilled to witness locals enjoying the natural waterslide and finding safe spots to jump into the lagoon below. Exploring the Palenque Ruins was a rewarding experience, despite the heat and fatigue. To enhance my visit, I sought guidance from the reception desk staff for self-guided jungle walks, bypassing expensive private tours. Palenque seamlessly combines nature and history, inviting me to immerse myself in its captivating allure.
Q & A
What would you have changed?
Homún: Would have liked to spend longer and go slower with the cenotes. They are so beautiful and you can really enjoy some peace and quiet at some of them. Palenque: Would have been nice to visit the city of Palenque and try some foods.Anything go wrong during the trip?
Homún: The collectivo there and back was a little squishy with all our bags, as always, if you can maybe store your luggage in Merida and take what you need for a couple of days. Palenque:Restaurant recommendations?
- Hotel Restaurant Santa Maria Homún, get the Queso Relleno. - El Rincon Del Abuelo, order Poc-Chuc - The restaurant at Santa Barbara, cochinita pibil was so good!Tips you would give a friend?
Give yourself time, take a book or something to do so you can relax and enjoy. Eat as much Yucatan food as possible! You can't wear sunscreen in most of the cenotes / have to shower before so keep that in mind. Don't just visit the main touristic ones - the other cenotes were so much quieter and still beautiful.Packing tips?
Swimmers, lightweight clothing that can dry quickly, sandals and a hat.Transportation Tips?
ATV was so fun!Any surprises?
The sheer beauty and tranquility of the cenotes!Booking details?
Used Booking.com there was only the one hotel online, but I noticed more throughout the city. Though a friend arrived at their hotel and asked for a room and seemed to be cheaper, dependant on availability.
Lodging
Hospedaje Papagrande, super cute and family run, clean, there is a pool and cute doggies. No kitchen, but lots of affordable and delicious Yucatan food very nearby.
Cabanas Kim Balam, out of the city of Palenque but within walking distance to the ruins. Essentially a hostel in the jungle there’s howler monkeys during evening and morning!