Chichen Itza Plus Tour with Cenote & Valladolid

Planning a trip to Cancun and eager to explore one of Mexico’s most iconic landmarks? The Chichen Itza Plus Tour with Cenote & Valladolid offers a compelling way to experience the ancient Mayan city along with some memorable natural and cultural sights. With a price of just $119 per person, this tour packs several highlights into a 12-hour day, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking both history and relaxation.

We like this tour for its well-organized itinerary—from the awe-inspiring pyramid to the refreshing cenote swim—and for the local flavor infused in the included buffet lunch and Valladolid stop. However, keep in mind that the extensive travel time (about 4 hours each way) means a long day on the road. This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience that hits the major highlights without the hassle of planning.

What We Love: The guided tour ensures you won’t miss key landmarks, and the inclusion of a cenote swim adds a refreshing touch.
What to Consider: The long bus ride might be tiring, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of archaeology, nature, and culture, and who prefer having logistics managed by a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Expert guidance enhances understanding of Mayan history and culture.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning makes long travel periods more bearable.
• All-inclusive features like drinks, lunch, and site admissions add value and convenience.
• Visit to a beautiful cenote for a swim offers a memorable natural experience.
• Stops in Valladolid provide a taste of colonial Mexican charm.
• Ample free time at Chichen Itza allows for independent exploration.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Booking and What It Means for You

Priced at $119 per person, this tour offers decent value considering it includes admission tickets to Chichen Itza, a buffet lunch, and guided commentary from a certified bilingual guide. Booking in advance, often 12 days ahead, suggests good planning and a popular itinerary. The tour’s mobile ticket makes it easy to keep your plans flexible.

Transportation: Comfort on the Road

The journey begins early with hotel pickup in Cancun, and you’ll travel aboard a luxury coach with air conditioning. The 4-hour drive each way is long but necessary to access the site efficiently, and having a comfortable, panoramic vehicle helps you relax during the transit. The group size caps at 50 travelers, striking a balance between social atmosphere and personal space.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Stop 1: Mayan Healing Ceremony and Artisan Market (2 hours)

You’ll start your day with a Mayanish healing ceremony led by a Chaman Maya—a ritual that adds a cultural depth to your visit. Following this, a visit to a local artisan shop exposes you to handmade crafts, giving a taste of traditional Mexican artistry. The reviews suggest that this part sets a respectful, authentic tone for the day.

Stop 2: Main Chichen Itza Tour (2 hours)

The core of the experience is the guided exploration of Chichen Itza, where you’ll see the famous Pyramid of Kukulkan, the Ball Court, Sacred Cenote, and the Observatory. Expect to learn about these structures’ significance from your guide, who makes history come alive. Visitors have noted that the guided tour at Chichen Itza is extensive yet manageable, offering ample time for photographs and reflection.

Stop 3: Cenote Saamal (50 minutes)

A highlight for many is the swim in Cenote Saamal. Surrounded by natural rock formations and lush greenery, the cenote offers a cool, refreshing break. The mandatory life vest rental costs $2, but it’s well worth it for safety and comfort. Reviewers have described this cenote as “stunning” and “picturesque,” emphasizing how memorable the natural scenery is.

Stop 4: Valladolid (30 minutes)

A brief stop in Valladolid allows you to admire its historic colonial architecture and churches. Although only a quick visit, many travelers appreciate the chance to see a true Mexican town, with some saying it provides a nice contrast to the ancient ruins.

Food and Drinks: Savoring Local Flavors

A buffet lunch featuring regional dishes is included—an appreciated detail for those who want to taste local cuisine without extra planning. The onboard drinks—bottled purified water, sodas, and beer—keep you refreshed throughout the day. Additional drinks and a photo fee at the park ($5) are extras to consider.

What’s Not Included

Tipping the guides and drivers is customary if you’re pleased with the service. Photography fees at Chichen Itza are not included, and if you want to use a GoPro or professional camera, plan for the $5 fee. Life jackets for the cenote swim are mandatory but not included in the price, so budget accordingly.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

The tour aims to balance educational storytelling with practical sightseeing. Many reviews praise the expert guide, who shares insights into Mayan culture and the significance of each site. The tour’s structure allows for independent exploration with sufficient free time at Chichen Itza, which is often appreciated by travelers eager to capture their own photos.

The long travel time is a key consideration. While the coach is comfortable, a 4-hour trip each way can be tiring. If you’re sensitive to long bus rides, consider whether this fits your travel style. The tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility or serious heart conditions, as walking on uneven surfaces and swimming involve some effort.

The Value of the Experience

For $119, you gain admission to a UNESCO World Heritage site, guided commentary, lunch, cenote swim, and a taste of local culture—a package that many would find worthwhile. The inclusion of local rituals and a colony town stop offers more than just the ruins; it’s a rounded experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour works best for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that combines history, nature, and culture without the logistics hassle. It’s suitable for those comfortable with long bus rides and eager to see the highlights of Chichen Itza, Valladolid, and a cenote. It’s particularly good for first-timers or those with limited time but who don’t want to miss the main attractions.

The Sum Up

The Chichen Itza Plus Tour with Cenote & Valladolid offers a practical, well-rounded way to explore one of Mexico’s most celebrated archaeological sites. The guided approach provides context and ease, while the inclusion of a cenote swim and colonial town visit adds memorable variety.

While the lengthy travel time might challenge some, the comfort of transport and inclusions make it a solid value. This tour is especially suited for travelers seeking a full, immersive day that combines history, natural beauty, and local color—all managed smoothly by experienced guides.

For those eager to see Chichen Itza without the stress of planning every detail, this tour provides a trustworthy and enjoyable experience that blends education with relaxation.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, with hotel pickup included in the price.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
It’s not recommended for travelers with limited mobility or serious heart conditions, as there’s walking on uneven surfaces and swimming involved.

How long is the travel time to Chichen Itza?
The journey takes about 4 hours each way, making it a full-day commitment.

Are meals included?
Yes, a regional buffet lunch is part of the package, allowing you to enjoy authentic local dishes.

Are drinks provided during the day?
Yes, bottled purified water, flavored sodas, and bottled beer are available onboard. Additional drinks and fees are extra.

Can I take photographs at Chichen Itza?
Photograph fees are charged on-site ($5 per person). Equipment like GoPros or professional cameras may require payment as well.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as there’s walking on uneven terrain. Also, bring sun protection and water to stay hydrated.

How much free time do I get at Chichen Itza?
You’ll have ample guided time plus some free exploration, with enough flexibility to take photos or soak in the views.

Is the tour refundable?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

In the end, this tour offers a solid balance of guided insight, cultural authenticity, and natural beauty—a well-paced way to connect with one of Mexico’s most impressive sights. Whether you’re a history lover or simply looking for a memorable day out, it delivers on its promises.