The Chichen Itza Early Access Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World before the crowds arrive. With a certified guide, visitors can enjoy the rich history and iconic sites of this ancient Mayan city, including the imposing Temple of Kukulkan and the enigmatic Observatory. Beyond the archaeological wonders, the tour also includes a refreshing swim in a sacred cenote and a delectable Mexican buffet lunch, making it a well-rounded cultural and culinary experience. Those seeking to uncover the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage site will find that this early access tour provides an unparalleled perspective.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Cancun.
Key Points
- This comprehensive tour offers early access to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, allowing you to explore key sites with a certified guide.
- Included in the tour is a swim in a sacred cenote and a Mexican buffet lunch with a tequila tasting experience.
- The tour duration is approximately 11 hours, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of the Mayan civilization’s wonders.
- While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible, and the buffet lunch and cenote visit accommodate various dietary needs.
- The tour has received high overall ratings, with positive feedback highlighting knowledgeable guides and the advantage of avoiding crowds by visiting Chichen Itza early.
Tour Overview
The "Chichen Itza Early Access Tour, Cenote & Buffet Lunch" is a comprehensive tour that takes visitors to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza, located in Cancun, Mexico.
With over 3,700 reviews and a Badge of Excellence from Amigo Tours, the tour offers early access to Chichen Itza, allowing guests to explore the key sites, including the Temple of Kukulkan and Observatory, with a certified guide.
The experience also includes a swim in a sacred cenote and a Mexican buffet lunch with a tequila tasting.
Inclusions, exclusions, and additional information are provided, making this tour an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive Mayan adventure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cancun.
Itinerary Highlights
One of the key highlights of the Chichen Itza Early Access Tour is the opportunity to explore the ancient Mayan city as the first group of the day. This early access allows visitors to avoid the crowds and intense heat that often build up later in the day. During the guided tour, travelers will visit the iconic Temple of Kukulkan, the Temple of the Jaguars, and the Observatory, learning about the rich Mayan civilization from a certified guide.
Itinerary Highlights | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Early Access | Guided Tour | Cenote Visit | Buffet Lunch | Tequila Tasting |
First group entry to Chichen Itza | Visit key sites like Temple of Kukulkan | Swim in a sacred cenote | Enjoy a Mexican buffet | Sample traditional tequila |
Avoid crowds and heat | Learn from a certified guide | Facilities include life vest and locker | Vegetarian options available | Included in the experience |
Inclusions and Exclusions
With the Chichen Itza Early Access Tour, travelers can look forward to a comprehensive experience that includes a range of inclusions as well as a few exclusions to be aware of.
The tour includes hotel pick-up or meeting point, air-conditioned transportation, a professional certified guide, a Mexican buffet lunch with tequila tasting, admission to Chichen Itza, and access to life vests and lockers at the cenote.
However, certain exclusions apply, such as:
- Chichen Itza entrance tax ($39 USD for adults, $6 USD for children)
- Additional fees for select hotel pick-ups ($10 USD for difficult access)
- Drinks, beyond the one included in the All-Inclusive option
Tour Duration
Spanning approximately 11 hours, the Chichen Itza Early Access Tour provides travelers with a comprehensive exploration of this iconic Mayan site.
The day begins with early morning pick-ups, ensuring guests are among the first to enter Chichen Itza and avoid the crowds and heat.
The guided tour covers key landmarks, including the Temple of Kukulkan and the Observatory, while a knowledgeable guide shares insights into the Mayan civilization.
After the site visit, travelers enjoy a Mexican buffet lunch and a swim in a sacred cenote, a refreshing end to the day’s activities.
The tour’s duration allows for a well-rounded experience, blending history, culture, and relaxation.
Meeting Points
The meeting points for the Chichen Itza Early Access Tour are confirmed the day before the excursion, with pick-ups starting as early as 4:30 am.
Travellers are provided with the exact meeting location, which can be either a hotel pick-up or a designated meeting point. The tour requires an early start to ensure first entry into Chichen Itza and avoid the crowds and heat later in the day.
Participants are advised to:
- Be ready at the specified time for a timely departure.
- Confirm the meeting point details with the tour operator the day prior.
- Arrive at the meeting location a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start.
- Communicate any special requests or needs to the tour operator in advance.
Accessibility
Accessibility is a key consideration for the Chichen Itza Early Access Tour. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible.
Infants must sit on laps during the tour. This may pose challenges for some travelers with mobility issues or young children.
The early access and guided components of the tour may also not be suitable for those seeking a more independent exploration.
However, the tour’s inclusions, such as the buffet lunch and cenote visit, can accommodate various dietary needs and provide a refreshing break.
Ultimately, travelers with accessibility requirements should carefully review the tour details and consider whether it aligns with their needs and preferences.
Customer Feedback
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Chichen Itza Early Access Tour, with an impressive 4.5-star rating based on 3,744 reviews.
The tour’s guides were particularly noted for their extensive knowledge and engaging commentary, providing valuable insights into the Mayan civilization.
Travelers also commended the early access to Chichen Itza, allowing them to avoid the crowds and heat. Plus, the buffet lunch and cenote experience were well-received.
However, some areas for improvement were identified, including:
- Desire for more time at Chichen Itza.
- Excessive charges for taxes and pick-up fees.
- Limited wheelchair accessibility.
- Lack of stroller access.
Tour Recommendation
Despite a few areas for improvement, the Chichen Itza Early Access Tour stands out as a highly recommended excursion for travelers visiting Cancun.
The tour’s comprehensive itinerary, which includes early access to Chichen Itza, a guided exploration of key sites, a refreshing swim in a cenote, and a delectable Mexican buffet lunch, offers an immersive and well-rounded experience.
While some travelers may desire more time at Chichen Itza and find the additional charges for taxes and pick-up fees excessive, the tour’s overall positive reviews, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to avoid crowds and heat make it an excellent choice for those seeking to discover the wonders of the Mayan civilization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
The tour does not have a minimum age requirement. Infants are welcome but must sit on laps, and the tour is accessible for strollers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Are Professional Cameras and Tripods Allowed at Chichen Itza?
Professional cameras and tripods are typically allowed at Chichen Itza, though visitors should check with tour operators for any restrictions. Reasonable use of equipment for photography is generally permitted within the archaeological site.
Is Transportation Back to the Hotel Included After the Tour?
The tour includes transportation back to the hotel after the excursion. Travelers don’t need to worry about arranging their own return as it’s provided as part of the package.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for the Buffet Lunch?
According to the information provided, the tour does offer a buffet lunch with vegetarian options. While the tour description doesn’t explicitly mention dietary accommodations, contacting the tour provider directly may allow them to cater to any special dietary needs.
Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour to a Private Experience?
Yes, travelers can upgrade the tour to a private experience for an additional fee. This offers more personalized attention and flexibility in the itinerary.
The Sum Up
The Chichen Itza Early Access Tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World with minimal crowds. With early entry, a certified guide, and a well-rounded cultural and culinary experience, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy the rich history and stunning natural beauty of this iconic site.
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