Chichen Itza Deluxe, 2 Cenotes tour From Playa del Carmen

If you’re planning a trip to the Riviera Maya and want to combine history, nature, and a taste of local life, the Chichen Itza Deluxe tour offers a compelling package. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a full-day adventure that promises more than just the usual tourist stops. It’s a well-rounded way to explore Maya heritage, cool off in stunning cenotes, and stroll through charming towns—all from the comfort of Playa del Carmen.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert-guided visit to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, offers a chance to learn about the ancient Maya civilization in a manageable, well-organized format. Second, the opportunity to swim in two beautiful cenotes—Ik Kil and Hubiku—adds a refreshing natural touch that balances the culture. However, a potential consideration is the long travel time, with some reviews mentioning extended journeys, which might test the patience of those with limited time or less stamina.

This tour suits travelers looking for a deeper cultural experience beyond the beaches, especially those eager to see iconic Maya ruins and enjoy natural beauty, all on a hassle-free day trip. Families, history buffs, and curious explorers will likely find it worth the investment. Keep in mind, this is a shared group experience, so flexibility and patience are key.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip that combines Maya ruins, cenotes, and a charming town
• Includes transportation, guides, and meals, providing good value
• Long but rewarding journey, emphasizing comfort and convenience
• Guided tours enhance understanding of the sites
• Swim in stunning cenotes with crystal-clear waters
• Potential for longer hours depending on traffic and logistics

An Authentic Look at the Chichen Itza Deluxe Tour

The Journey Begins Early and Comfortably

Starting at 7:00 am, the tour kicks off with a hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen. We appreciate the hassle-free pickup and drop-off, which means you won’t have to worry about finding your way to a meeting point. Once onboard, the transportation involves a series of smaller vehicles and then a larger bus, designed to accommodate up to 50 travelers comfortably.

While the journey from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza is definitely a long one—most reviews openly acknowledge that it can stretch to 14 hours or more—this is a common feature of day trips to the Yucatán’s interior. The upside? You’re traveling in air-conditioned comfort, with drinks provided during transit, making the long ride more bearable.

Exploring Chichen Itza: A Guided Encounter

The highlight, of course, is the visit to Chichen Itza, the ancient Maya city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided tour lasts about two hours, giving enough time to see key landmarks such as the Temple of Kukulcán, the Temple of the Warriors, and the sacred cenote. The guide’s insights help contextualize what you’re seeing—these ruins are more than just impressive stones; they’re a window into a sophisticated civilization.

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, describing them as engaging and informative. As one reviewer mentioned, “Christian was very informative, funny and kept you interested”, which can make a long day much more enjoyable. Expect to learn about the purpose of the pyramid, the significance of the various temples, and some Maya myths.

Cooling Off in Ik Kil and Hubiku Cenotes

A major draw of this tour is the chance to swim in two cenotes. The first stop is Ik Kil, renowned for its dramatic vertical walls and lush greenery. Its crystal-clear waters serve as a perfect refresh after a morning of sightseeing. Reviewers frequently mention how “cooling off in Ik Kil was worth it”, and the scenery is often described as “stunning”, with some calling it one of the most beautiful cenotes in the Yucatán.

Next, you’ll visit Cenote Hubiku, described as “a mystical scene”, with sunlight streaming through the open top, creating a magical atmosphere. Both cenotes come with admission included, and you’re provided with enough time to take photos and swim. Be sure to bring your swimsuit and towel, as recommended, and remember that life vests are mandatory, which adds a safety layer, especially for less confident swimmers.

Lunch and Valladolid: A Taste of Local Life

After the cenotes, the tour moves to Valladolid, a charming colonial town. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to walk around, admire the San Servacio Church, and grab some souvenirs or photos in the main park. While some reviews mention that this is a quick stop, it’s enough for a brief taste of local life and architecture.

For lunch, the tour offers a buffet of regional dishes, which many reviewers find surprisingly tasty. A box lunch with a sandwich and juice is also included, catering to different appetites. While some travelers expressed that the lunch could be better, overall, it’s considered decent and convenient for a day packed with activity.

The Downside: Long Hours and Logistics

Several reviews highlight that the main drawback is the duration. The trip is quite long, with some describing it as “a really long journey,” especially if you’re not used to extended travel days. The logistics involve multiple pickups, transfers, and potential traffic delays, which can extend the overall hours.

Another point to keep in mind is that the itinerary may vary depending on the guide’s logistics and traffic conditions. Some reviewers mention that the order of visits might change, and meal or stop times could shift. Flexibility is key here.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value

At $133 per person, this tour offers quite a bit for the price, including entrance fees, guided tours, transportation, cenote swims, and meals. For travelers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free experience, it’s a good deal considering the inclusions. However, it’s worth noting that there is an additional preservation tax of $15 USD per adult and $10 USD per child, which is paid on-site.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs, families, and curious travelers who want an all-in-one day trip that covers major highlights. It’s also a good pick for those who prefer guided visits to self-guided exploration, especially since the guides are praised for their knowledge and humor. If you’re comfortable with a long day on the road and enjoy natural swimming spots, this tour covers plenty of ground.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers eager to see Chichen Itza without the hassle of planning, this tour offers a convenient, guided way to experience the highlights of the Yucatán’s cultural and natural treasures. The combination of stunning cenotes, historic ruins, and a charming town makes it a well-rounded day. The value for money is significant, given the inclusions of transportation, guides, entrance fees, and meals.

However, if you’re sensitive to long travel times or prefer a more relaxed pace, consider whether this type of full-day tour matches your travel style. Some reviews suggest that a private tour might be more comfortable if you want a more flexible schedule or shorter travel hours.

This tour is an excellent choice for those who want a rich, guided experience that balances history and nature in a single day, especially if you’re looking for value and convenience.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen is included, involving pickups, transfers, and a comfortable bus ride.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and logistical factors.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance to Chichen Itza, the cenotes, and Valladolid are included in the price.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for the outdoor stops. Life vests are mandatory for swimming.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
While drinks are included during transport, the tour provides a buffet lunch and a box lunch. Bringing extra snacks or beverages is possible but not necessary.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the long hours and walking involved. Children will likely enjoy the cenotes and open spaces but should be supervised.

What is the group size?
Up to 50 travelers can join, so expect a lively group, especially during peak times.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations for a diverse group.

Final Word

Choosing the Chichen Itza Deluxe tour means opting for a well-organized, value-packed day full of history, natural beauty, and local flavor. It’s ideal for travelers who want an easy, guided way to explore some of Mexico’s most iconic sites without the stress of self-planning. While the long hours might not suit everyone, the rewards—a visit to one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites and a swim in spectacular cenotes—are well worth it for many. Just remember to bring your patience, your sense of adventure, and perhaps a good playlist for the ride.