Convent Route

Beyond the Beaten Path

The Convent Route is a day trip that takes you off the beaten path and into the heart of the Yucatán.

Winding through the countryside of west-central Yucatán, the route passes through Mayan villages, archaeological sites, colonial churches, convents, courtyards, and cenotes. The Convent Route and Ruta Puuc follow the same road before branching off onto smaller country roads.

Sotuta de Peón

Hacienda Sotuta de Peón is one of the few henequén haciendas in Yucatán where traditional production is still demonstrated today. The two-and-a-half-hour guided tour takes you through the historic main house and into the surrounding henequén fields by horse-drawn platform. Along the way, you'll visit a traditional Maya home before continuing to a cenote where you can swim. The tour ends back at the hacienda, where you can stay for a Yucatecan meal.

Acancéh

Just a mile from Sac Chich, Acanceh is home to the Plaza de las Tres Culturas, where Maya, colonial, and modern history come together. Explore the church and chapel surrounding the plaza, then look for the nearby archaeological remains and the Temple of the Stuccoes.

Tecoh

About 8 km from Acanceh, Tecoh is known for its ornate church and former convent dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption. Built atop a large Maya pyramid, the church features beautifully carved stonework, an elaborate altar, paintings, and religious statuary.

Mayapán

Mayapán was the last great Maya capital and is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the region. Its walled city contains thousands of structures and numerous restored temples and pyramids. Unlike larger sites such as Chichén Itzá, Mayapán offers a quieter experience and a chance to see both restored buildings and structures still surrounded by vegetation.

Please note the site is temporarily closed.

Tekit

Continue to Tekit, a lively Yucatecan town known for its beautiful parish church and traditional guayabera workshops. The Church of San Antonio de Padua is filled with ornate statues and religious artwork.

Mama

The small village of Mama is home to one of the most beautiful churches on the route. The historic church and former Franciscan convent feature a distinctive bell tower, enclosed atrium, garden, frescoes, and an ornate altar.

Teabo

Teabo is known for its historic parish church and former convent of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, dating to the 17th century. Inside, you'll find an elaborate altarpiece and the Chapel of the Indians, dating to 1617. The town is also known for its traditional embroidered huipiles.

Chumayel

Chumayel is best known as the place where the famous Chilam Balam, one of the most important surviving Maya manuscripts, was found. Visit the 16th-century Church of the Immaculate Conception and its striking black wooden Christ.

Maní

The final stop on the Convent Route is Maní, home to a historic church, former convent, and museum. The Convent of Saint Michael the Archangel dates to 1549 and is an important site in the history of Yucatán. It was here that Fray Diego de Landa ordered the destruction of Maya religious objects and manuscripts during the Spanish conquest. Today, the convent and museum offer an opportunity to learn more about this complex and important chapter in Yucatán's history.