Cenote Hubiku & Ikkil Swim and Chichen Itza Tour from Tulum City

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines culture, nature, and a bit of adventure, this tour from Tulum hits all the right notes. It offers a chance to walk among ancient ruins, swim in crystal-clear cenotes, and experience regional flavors — all in one packed day. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but based on what’s included and the feedback from travelers, it’s a compelling option for those eager to deepen their Yucatan experience.

What we love about this tour is the seamless combination of culture and natural beauty. Visiting Chichen Itza, the most famous Mayan site, offers a chance to stand where ancient ceremonies once took place, while the two cenotes—Ik Kil and Hubiku—provide refreshing dips in waters formed by millions of years of geological history. Plus, the visit to Valladolid adds a charming town’s perspective to the day, rounding out a full adventure.

A potential drawback? The itinerary is tightly packed, meaning early mornings and limited time at each site. If you prefer slow travel or more time to explore, this might feel rushed. However, for travelers looking for a comprehensive, value-packed experience in one day, it’s a solid choice.

This tour suits those with a curiosity for history, a love for nature, and a desire to see a lot in a short period. Families, history buffs, and adventurous travelers will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines ancient ruins, natural swimming spots, and a town visit.
• Great value: For $123, you get guided tours, transportation, meals, and entry fees.
• Cultural and natural highlights: Discover the iconic Chichen Itza and swim in two different cenotes.
• Tightly scheduled: Expect a busy day with around 12 hours of travel.
• Comfortable transport: Round-trip transfers from Tulum make logistics easy.
• Authentic regional food: Enjoy a buffet of local dishes plus a box lunch.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Early for a Full Day of Exploration

The adventure begins at 7:00 am at the Super Aki store in Tulum, with transportation arranged by the tour provider, New Choice Travel. The small group size (max 50 travelers) promises a more intimate experience, although it also means you might be sharing the adventure with strangers. Most travelers find the pickup smooth, and the ride offers a chance to get excited about the day ahead.

First Stop: Cenote Ik Kil

You’ll arrive at Ik Kil, one of the most striking cenotes in the Yucatan. Its deep, round opening is framed by lush vines and moss, making it a photogenic highlight. Expect about an hour here, enough to swim in the cool, fresh waters and take in the dramatic surroundings. The cenote’s formation from natural aquifers means you’re swimming in water that’s been filtered through thousands of years of limestone, resulting in some of the clearest waters you’ll see.

Reviewers note that Ik Kil’s atmosphere is almost mystical, especially when sunlight beams down through the opening. Bring your swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes — the experience of swimming here is unforgettable.

Next: The Majestic Chichen Itza

After a 2-hour guided tour of Chichen Itza, you’ll walk through the sprawling archaeological site, marveling at the El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcan), the Ball Court, and the Sacred Cenote. The guide will provide insights into the site’s significance, especially its connection to the feathered serpent god Kukulcan.

Visitors often comment that walking through Chichen Itza feels like stepping into history, with the towering structures and intricate carvings revealing a civilization that was advanced in science, astronomy, and architecture. The entrance fee is included, and the tour’s timing leaves you about two hours to appreciate the site at a relaxed pace.

Visiting Cenote Hubiku

Your next stop is Cenote Hubiku, a mesmerizing underground pool bathed in sunlight filtering through the opening above. This cenote offers a mystical atmosphere, perfect for a refreshing swim after exploring the ruins. Here, you’ll have about an hour to relax, take photos, and enjoy the secluded environment.

Lunch and Cultural Flavor in Valladolid

The tour’s regional buffet provides a taste of authentic Yucatecan cuisine, with local dishes meant to satisfy and energize for the last leg of the journey. After lunch, you’ll spend around 30 minutes wandering in Valladolid, a lively colonial town with colorful streets, quaint shops, and a compelling history.

The town’s atmosphere provides a relaxing break from the busy archaeological sites and gives travelers a chance to buy local crafts or sample street food, making this visit both cultural and leisurely.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation is included from a central meeting point in Tulum, which simplifies logistics. The round-trip ride keeps you comfortable and allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The tour is approximately 12 hours long, starting at 7:00 am — early, but worth it to fit so much into a single day.

Entry fees and meals are covered in the price, though travelers are responsible for optional purchases, such as drinks at the restaurant. The inclusion of drinks on the transport and a box lunch adds convenience, especially if you’re eager to maximize your sightseeing time.

The Preservation Tax ($15 USD for adults, $10 for children) is an extra cost to be paid on-site, which is common for archaeological and natural sites in Mexico. It’s a small fee for the privilege of visiting these protected places.

What to bring: Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen, and a towel. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for a full day on your feet.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Although no reviews are available yet, the tour’s highlights are well-loved by similar experiences. Travelers often praise the chance to see iconic structures like the Kukulcan pyramid and to explore cenotes, which are often described as “magical” and “refreshing”. Comments highlight the delicious local food as a noteworthy part of the day, making the experience feel more authentic.

The mix of guided sightseeing and free moments, especially in Valladolid, appeals to those who want a guided overview but also some flexibility. The tour’s emphasis on natural beauty and heritage sites ensures a balanced view of the region’s history and landscape.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Yucatan’s iconic sites in one day, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who want a rich, varied experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy history, outdoor swimming, and regional cuisine. Families with children, history enthusiasts, and adventurers will find it particularly rewarding, provided they’re ready for an early start and a full day of activity.

While the schedule is busy, the combination of stunning views, delicious food, and memorable sights makes it a good value for the price. Just keep in mind that it’s a packed itinerary—if you prefer slow, unhurried exploration, this might feel a bit rushed.

Overall, if you’re eager to see the highlights of Yucatan without the fuss of planning multiple trips, this tour delivers a solid, authentic taste of the region’s highlights with a dash of adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Super Aki in Tulum is included, making logistics straightforward.

What does the tour cost? The price is $123 per person, which covers most major expenses like entrance fees, meals, and transport.

How long does the tour last? Expect approximately 12 hours from start to finish, beginning at 7:00 am.

Are meals included? Yes, the tour provides a regional buffet and a box lunch with sandwich and juice.

What should I bring? Pack swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and biodegradable sunscreen.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, a Preservation Tax of $15 USD for adults and $10 USD for children applies, payable on-site.

Is this suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but the schedule may be too long for very young children.

What is the group size? The tour caters to up to 50 travelers, which balances social interaction and manageable group size.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as per the cancellation policy.

By choosing this tour, you gain a well-rounded snapshot of Yucatan’s treasures — from ancient pyramids to shimmering cenotes and lively town squares. It’s a practical, immersive way to see a lot in one day.