Hacienda Sotuta De Peon

Step back in time at Hacienda Sotuta De Peon, a beautifully restored 19th-century henequen plantation near Mérida. This living museum offers an immersive glimpse into Yucatán's 'green gold' era, where the agave plant was turned into rope and twine. Wander through the lush grounds, explore the grand manor house, and learn about the fascinating process of henequen production from field to factory. The hacienda’s cenote, a stunning natural sinkhole, provides a refreshing dip after a day of exploration.

Highlights & What to See

• Henequen Plantation Tour: Ride a horse-drawn cart through the agave fields, then watch artisans demonstrate the traditional fiber extraction and rope-making process.
• Casa Principal (Manor House): Explore the restored rooms filled with period furniture, photographs, and tools that tell the story of the hacienda’s heyday.
• Cenote Dzul-Ha: Cool off in this enchanting underground cenote, complete with stalactites and crystal-clear water – perfect for swimming.
• Mayan Cultural Experience: Interact with local Maya families who still live on the property, showcasing traditional crafts and daily life.
• Horseback Riding: Opt for a guided ride through the plantation’s trails and surrounding jungle for a different perspective.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day (4–5 hours) to fully enjoy the hacienda. The guided tour, including the cart ride, factory demonstration, and manor visit, takes about 2–3 hours. Add another hour for swimming in the cenote and exploring the grounds at your leisure. If you’re a history buff or photography enthusiast, consider the full-day option to linger over lunch at the on-site restaurant and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mérida: The vibrant capital of Yucatán, just a 30-minute drive away, offers colonial architecture, museums, and a thriving food scene.
• Cenotes of Cuzamá: A cluster of three stunning cenotes reachable by a traditional horse-drawn cart, about 40 minutes east.
• Uxmal: One of the most impressive Maya ruins, with its ornate Puuc-style architecture, about an hour’s drive south.
• Izamal: The ‘Yellow City’ known for its painted colonial buildings and Maya pyramids, roughly 1.5 hours northeast.
• Celestún Biosphere Reserve: A coastal paradise for flamingo-watching and boat tours through mangroves, about 1.5 hours west.

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