Private car transfer from Merida to Chiquila

Chiquila itself has a laid-back atmosphere. Although it's a departure point, it's also a tiny town in its own right. Recent regional developments have made it a popular stopping point to rest and relax. Yet, before you get to Chiquila, there are quite a few noteworthy stops along the way you should explore.

For example, there is the Cenote Yokdzonot, which is found in the jungle. It has brilliant blue waters, roots, and vines hanging above. It's an oasis and perfect for a quick dip. Then there is the world-famous Chichen Itza. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a look into the mighty Mayan empire and the Tolec cultures. Afterward, you can wander through Valladolid, known for its laid-back delights and colorful colonial houses.

Each of these places, and others like – the Cenote Hubiku and Ek Balam – can be visited when you drive with Daytrip. Your professional English-speaking driver will have no problem with your sightseeing goals. In fact, they will do everything they can to ensure your Merida to Chiquila transfer is enjoyable and memorable.

Chiquila itself consists of a few restaurants serving traditional Yucatan fare and a few stores where you can shop and pick out souvenirs to take home. It also now has a few hotels. Until recently, visitors would need to head toward surrounding towns and cities after touring the town, but you can now stay in Chiquila. If you decide to stay, we recommend the Villas Yalahau since it's highly regarded and is known for serving a delicious breakfast.

Historically, Chiquila was inhabited by the Maya. Although the town has grown and evolved, it has held onto its traditional roots, which you can see for yourself in its attractions, architecture, and cuisine. In the past, the country's main economy centered around fishing, but it has gradually shifted toward tourism.

Interestingly, Chiquilas' history is also marked by its key role in the regional salt trade. The salt flats were essential to the local economy and contributed to the town's trade with Mesoamerican cultures. Nowadays, when you visit, you can learn more about the town's intriguing past as you relax and enjoy everything it has to offer, including its local traditions and natural surroundings.

Make sure you have enough cash on hand

When traveling from Merida to Chiquila, you must carry enough Mexican pesos. This is because ATMs are limited in Chiquila and along the way, and unfortunately, most of the small businesses you will encounter only accept cash. So, we recommend withdrawing money in Merida before you begin your journey. Just be careful to keep your cash hidden to remain safe.

Pack the essentials

When traveling from Merida to Chiquila, it's important to pack the essentials. These usually consist of sunscreen to protect against harsh UV rays, breathable clothing to stay cool, and insect repellent to keep pesky mosquitoes away. You’ll also want to pack light to make your luggage more manageable.

Wear walking shoes

Other footwear may be tempting, but we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. There are many places along the way that you might want to visit, including a few cenotes that require walking through rugged jungle terrain. You do not want to be doing this in flip-flops, so wear comfortable walking shoes that allow you the freedom to explore.

From Merida to Chiquila by rental car

Some prefer to drive themselves and stop to sightsee, and if this is the case with you, it's best to consider hiring a rental car. A few rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise, offer this service in Merida.

However, you should know that it can be expensive. Prices start at between $30 and $50 per day, depending on the vehicle you choose, and you will have to pay for fuel and tolls. Additionally, it can be challenging to navigate foreign roads, which could slow you down. Plus, the trip can take four and a half to five hours if you have to drive yourself.

From Merida to Chiquila by bus

If you want to experience the local culture and are on a budget, you should consider booking a bus ticket. Buses are budget-friendly and offer a unique cultural experience. If you want to book a bus ticket, you should consider ADO, one of Mexico’s leading bus companies that offers trips from Merida to Chiquila.

Typically, a bus ticket costs between $20 and $30, and the trip should take between five and a half hours and six hours. This can be quite a long time to spend on a bus with no sightseeing opportunities. However, the buses are often air-conditioned—thank goodness—and comfortable.

You should also know that you might encounter a transfer or two since very few buses offer direct trips between these two destinations. You’ll have to plan your trip around the bus schedule, which could limit your flexibility during your travels.

From Merida to Chiquila by private car transfer service

A private car transfer is hard to beat when it comes to convenience, flexibility, reliability, affordability, and safety. If you travel with a door-to-door private service like Daytrip, you’ll experience all these benefits and more.

Daytrip is one of the best transfer services offering trips along this route. Bookings start at $69 per seat, and the trip takes only three and a half hours since the drivers know the route. However, the trip could take longer if you stop and sightsee, which we recommend, considering there are places like Cenote Hubiku, Ek Balam, and Cenote Maya Park to visit along the way.

Most people find that traveling with Daytrip is enjoyable. English-speaking drivers share insights into attractions along the way and can help you decide what to see and do in Chiquila. In addition, Daytrip offers comfortable cars, and you won't even need to worry about your luggage since the driver will handle it for you.

Visit the mangroves

One thing you should do when you visit Chiquila is visit the mangroves, which start in Chiquila and move into Isla Holbox. Lush mangrove forests surround this town and are home to many species of wildlife, including fish, birds, and crocodiles.

Considering some of these animals are dangerous, hiring a local tour guide is best to keep you safe while you explore the mangroves. Usually, a local will take you out on a boat and give you a tour so you can explore the rich biodiversity from a comfortable and safe position. So bring along your binoculars and see how many bird species and animals you can spot!

Explore the local beaches

It's true that Chiquila isn’t known for its beaches as much as nearby Holbox, but there are quite a few beautiful, less crowded beaches you can visit to relax, soak up the sun, or take a dip in the ocean.

The calm waters provide the perfect place for swimmers to dally, and you won't be disappointed if you stay until sundown. The breathtaking sunsets offer a peaceful end to your day.

Try local cuisine

One of the best things to do in Chiquila is try local cuisine, especially the town's seafood. There are several restaurants worth visiting, but we think you’ll love the Ole Ole Ole Mexican Restaurant at the Mayan Villas Hotel. This restaurant serves daily meals, and the cuisine is traditional, so you can expect enchiladas, mole, and chile verde pork.

Another restaurant worth visiting is Sardina Enamorada, which you’ll find near the ferry. This restaurant specializes in serving patrons tasty fresh fish and ceviche. If neither of these places sounds appealing, you can try a few others, but we promise you’ll love this town’s food.

Since the town is small and there isn’t too much to do, the best time to visit is usually between December and April when the weather is warmer. With the warm weather, you can visit the town's beautiful beaches and wander from one restaurant or cafe to the next, grabbing bites to eat. However, prices during these months can be high, so be prepared to spend more.

If you are on a tighter budget and want a more laid-back experience with fewer crowds, you should consider visiting Chiquila in the off-season from May to October. Yet, something else you should consider before planning your trip is that hurricane season runs from June to November, so be prepared for this and plan accordingly.