Santa Elena

Travel Guide

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.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Find the best Santa Elena areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Santa Elena
Learn more about Santa Elena
Ancient stone steps leading to a large building with intricate carvings.

Uxmal

Historic sites, archaeological sites, and restaurants are some highlights of Uxmal. Make a stop by Pyramid of the Magician or Uxmal Archaeological Site 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.

Hotel Mundo Maya Nuevo Uxmal

Hotel Mundo Maya Nuevo Uxmal

4 out of 5
Cam. a San Felipe, Ejido Calkiní y Hda Santa Elena YUC
$76 nightly
The price is $92 total per night from Sep 25 to Sep 26
$92 total
Sep 25 - Sep 26
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Santa Elena. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Governors Palace and House ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (56 reviews)
"Everything was wonderful. We're coming back soon."

Reviewed on Sep 9, 2026

Hotel Mundo Maya Nuevo Uxmal
Hacienda Uxmal Plantation & Museum

Hacienda Uxmal Plantation & Museum

3.5 out of 5
At the heart of the archaeological park Santa Elena YUC
$179 nightly
The price is $216 total per night from Sep 25 to Sep 26
$216 total
Sep 25 - Sep 26
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa resort in Santa Elena. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (509 reviews)
"Excellent experience. Our second stay. Will do again."

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2026

Hacienda Uxmal Plantation & Museum
The Lodge At Uxmal

The Lodge At Uxmal

4.5 out of 5
In heart of Archeological Park of Uxmal Santa Elena YUC
$98 nightly
The price is $117 total per night from Sep 25 to Sep 26
$117 total
Sep 25 - Sep 26
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury lodge in Santa Elena. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Pyramid of the Magician and Choco-Story ...
The Lodge At Uxmal
See all 33 properties in Santa Elena
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Charming cottage in wonderful Ticul with WiFi, AC

Charming cottage in wonderful Ticul with WiFi, AC

Ticul YUC
Stay at this vacation home in Ticul. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attraction Plaza de la Cultura is located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"LA PERLA DEL SUR DE TICUL: An Absolute Gem in the Heart of Yucatán!From the moment we booked, the experience was exceptional. The property manager sent a warm, personalized confirmation message, responded promptly when we verified our reservation a few days before arrival, and had check-in instructions ..."

Reviewed on Mar 29, 2026

Charming cottage in wonderful Ticul with WiFi, AC
HACIENDA Blanca Flor CAMPECHE

HACIENDA Blanca Flor CAMPECHE

3 out of 5
Carretera Mérida - Campeche KM 65.5 Hecelchakan CAM
Stay at this villa in Hecelchakan. Enjoy air conditioning and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Camino Real Archaeological Museum and Hecelchakan Plaza are ...
HACIENDA Blanca Flor CAMPECHE
HACIENDA HISTÓRICA Blanca Flor Del Siglo XVI

HACIENDA HISTÓRICA Blanca Flor Del Siglo XVI

3 out of 5
Carretera Mérida - Campeche KM 65.5 Hecelchakan CAM
Stay at this villa in Hecelchakan. Enjoy air conditioning and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Camino Real Archaeological Museum and Hecelchakan Plaza are ...
HACIENDA HISTÓRICA Blanca Flor Del Siglo XVI
See all properties in Santa Elena
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Santa Elena attractions

An ancient stone structure with stepped platforms and a large open courtyard.

Uxmal Archaeological Site

9.8/10 (195 reviews)
Learn about the local history of Santa Elena when you take a trip to Uxmal Archaeological Site. While in this relaxing area, you can savor the local chocolate shops and restaurants.
See properties

Things to do

Cenote Yuum Kimil

4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida

$75
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida
Turibus Panoramic Sightseeing Tour of Merida

Merida: Panoramic Sightseeing Bus Tour

$10
per adult
74% of travellers recommend
Merida: Panoramic Sightseeing Bus Tour
Chichen Pueblos Magicos, Izamal + Valladolid Day Trip

Chichen Itza, Izamal & Noolha Cenote Day Trip - Traditional Lunch Included

$119
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Chichen Itza, Izamal & Noolha Cenote Day Trip - Traditional Lunch Included
The red ones

Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida

$104
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida
Isla Columpios & Progreso Day Trip

Isla Columpios, Corchito & Progreso Day Tour

$79
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Isla Columpios, Corchito & Progreso Day Tour
Mérida: Panoramic Sightseeing Tour Bus Ticket with 2 Routes

Mérida México: Panoramic Sightseeing City Tour with 2 Routes

$10
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Mérida México: Panoramic Sightseeing City Tour with 2 Routes
See all activities in Santa Elena

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Elena worth visiting?
Santa Elena is worth visiting for its rich historical sites, including the Uxmal Archaeological Site and the impressive House of the Turtles. Travelers can explore ancient Mayan architecture and immerse themselves in the history of the Uxmal area, offering a deep dive into the region's past.
When is the best time to visit Santa Elena?
The best time to visit Santa Elena is from February through April, which is also its peak season for travelers. For fewer crowds and better value, consider visiting during the quieter months of October through December, when lodging rates tend to be lower.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Santa Elena?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Santa Elena depend on what you want to see:


What is Santa Elena known for?
Santa Elena is known for its rich historical sites, especially the Uxmal Archaeological Site. Travelers can explore ancient structures like the House of the Turtles and the impressive Pyramid of the Magician. This city in Mexico offers a deep dive into its unique archaeological heritage.
What is a good itinerary length for Santa Elena?
A good itinerary length for Santa Elena is one to two days to explore the nearby Uxmal Archaeological Site, including the House of the Turtles and Pyramid of the Magician. For an extended trip of three to four days, travelers can also enjoy a trip to Uxmal and Kabah & Chocolate Museum, or visit the Loltún caves. See Santa Elena Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Santa Elena?
Santa Elena offers a rich blend of ancient Mayan history, natural wonders, and local culinary experiences:

  • Visit the Uxmal Archaeological Site, a significant ancient Mayan city.
  • Explore Kabah, another impressive archaeological landmark nearby.
  • Discover the Chocolate Museum, learning about the history and making of chocolate.
  • Wander through the Amazing Loltún caves, a fascinating natural attraction.
  • Learn to prepare local dishes with a Cooking Mayan Class in Santa Elena.

How do I plan a trip to Santa Elena?
To plan your trip to Santa Elena, search for hotels and book flights and rental cars in advance. From Santa Elena, explore nearby Uxmal Archaeological Site, including the House of the Turtles. Consider tours like 'Amazing Trip to Uxmal and Kabah & Chocolate Museum'. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Santa Elena?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Santa Elena by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Santa Elena with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Santa Elena trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Santa Elena?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Santa Elena can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Santa Elena trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Santa Elena trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Santa Elena trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Santa Elena trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Santa Elena?
If it's your first trip to Santa Elena, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Santa Elena hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Santa Elena hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Santa Elena

A rocky path leading to a thatched-roof hut surrounded by trees and a signboard.

Maxcanu

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

Mérida

A street with colorful buildings, a church, and a clear blue sky.

Hopelchen

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

Muna

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