In eastern Yucatán, close to Valladolid, a hidden treasure invites you to discover the world of the ancient Maya: Zazil Tunich Cenote Museum. More than a natural wonder, this remarkable cenote lies at the heart of Xeneba Maya Village, where history, culture and nature come together in an unforgettable experience.
The Story of Xeneba Maya Village
The story of this part of Yucatán is intertwined with the arrival of Spanish settlers in Valladolid. In nearby Yalcobá, settlers established the Xeneba Cattle Hacienda. According to the local account, existing Maya structures were destroyed or reused, and Maya people were forced to work in the construction of the hacienda.
The local story recounts that the hacienda was destroyed during the Maya uprising of 1847. Remains associated with this period can still be seen, including walls and the noria once used to draw water from the cenote.
Keeping Maya Culture Alive
Today, Xeneba Maya Village brings renewed life to traditional spaces, customs and ways of living. Visitors can stay in traditional Maya-style cabins, also known as chozas. The Maya market, Kihuic , offers an introduction to local food traditions and ceremonial customs.
The surrounding landscape offers opportunities to appreciate the region’s native plants and wildlife. A visit to Zazil Tunich Cenote Museum adds another dimension: stories of Xibalbá, the Maya underworld, reveal the mythology and cultural meaning associated with these underground spaces.
Nature and Living Culture
The Xeneba Maya Village connects past and present through the nature and living Maya culture of eastern Yucatán. Staying here gives you time to experience the village after dark, with modern comforts in a traditional setting. Discover Yucatán through its local flavours, colours and aromas.
The village’s story speaks of rebuilding after the Maya uprising and recovering land associated with earlier communities. Here, the Mu’ul , the foundations of Maya ceremonial centres described in the local account, invite you to reflect on the spirituality and history of this ancient civilisation.
Recognition for Zazil Tunich Cenote Museum
The Zazil Tunich Cenote Museum combines natural beauty with cultural storytelling and has received national recognition for its contribution to tourism. In 2023, Zazil Tunich received Mexico’s National Tourism Innovation Award from the Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) in the Meetings Tourism category. The award recognised “Encuentro en el Xibalbá”, an experience inspired by Maya mythology, culture and traditions.
This recognition celebrates Yucatán and the efforts of the local community to preserve and share its cultural heritage. It reflects Zazil Tunich’s commitment to thoughtful cultural tourism.
Experience Maya Heritage
A visit to Zazil Tunich Cenote Museum and Xeneba Maya Village is more than an excursion: it is a journey into Maya cultural and natural heritage. Discover a corner of Yucatán where stones, trees and water evoke stories of resilience, renewal and connection with the land.
Come and discover the richness of living Maya culture.
