Costa Maya Shore Excursion: Chacchoben Day Trip

The Costa Maya shore excursion to Chacchoben offers an enriching adventure for those seeking to explore the ancient Maya civilization. This highly-rated day trip provides a glimpse into the remarkably well-preserved ruins, complete with towering temple pyramids and intriguing hieroglyphics. Travelers can expect knowledgeable bilingual guides, air-conditioned transportation, and opportunities to enjoy the local culture, from tasting fresh pineapple to indulging in authentic Mexican cuisine. Whether one is a history buff or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this shore excursion promises a worry-free guarantee that may just leave you eager to uncover more about this captivating Mayan site.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Shore Excursions In Costa Maya.

Key Points

• Comprehensive exploration of the ancient Mayan site of Chacchoben, featuring reconstructed temple pyramids and stelae with hieroglyphics.
• Tour facilitated by CM Tours with a Badge of Excellence, and a high recommendation rate of 97%.
• Knowledgeable local guides provide commentary on Mayan history, and offer opportunities to spot wildlife and sample local pineapple.
• Tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are permitted, and a worry-free guarantee ensures timely return to port.
• Tour has a 5.0 overall rating based on extensive positive feedback from travelers, highlighting the excellent guides and informative nature of the excursion.

Tour Overview

Offering a comprehensive exploration of the ancient Mayan site of Chacchoben, the Costa Maya Shore Excursion: Chacchoben Day Trip provides travelers with a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.

Rated highly with a 97% recommendation rate, this excursion is facilitated by CM Tours, a provider with a Badge of Excellence. Priced from $64.11 per person, the tour takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes at the archaeological site and is available from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025.

Guests can expect a worry-free guarantee, ensuring timely return to port and a refund if they miss the trip due to ship delay.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at the Costa Maya Port, where travelers check in at the office near the large Mayan pyramid replica.

From there, they board an air-conditioned minivan and set off to explore the ancient Mayan city of Chacchoben.

At the archaeological site, guests can wander among the reconstructed temple pyramids and stelae adorned with intricate hieroglyphics.

Along the way, they may spot diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and armadillos.

The guides, who are knowledgeable about Mayan history and culture, provide insightful commentary about the site, which dates back to 200 BC.

After the tour, travelers have the opportunity to visit the gift shop and sample local pineapple before returning to the port.

Guide and Experience

The local English- and Spanish-speaking guides are knowledgeable about Mayan history and culture, providing insightful commentary throughout the tour.

Groups are kept small, with a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and informative nature of the guides, who share their expertise on the ancient Mayan civilization dating back to 200 BC.

Along With the guided tour of the Chacchoben ruins, travelers may have the opportunity to sample local pineapple and visit the seaside town of Mahahual to try authentic Mexican cuisine, further enriching the overall excursion.

Accessibility and Requirements

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.

It’s also not recommended for individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Cruise ship passengers must provide their ship name, docking, disembarkation, and re-boarding times at the time of booking. This is to ensure the tour can accommodate your’ schedule and return them to the port in a timely manner.

The tour company offers a worry-free guarantee, promising a refund if travelers miss the ship due to a delay.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Chacchoben Day Trip, with an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on extensive feedback.

Many highlight the tour’s excellent guides, who are knowledgeable about Mayan history and culture. Guests also enjoy the informative nature of the tours, the stunning archaeological site, and the opportunity to visit local attractions.

While a few reviewers mention difficulties finding the meeting point or issues with transportation comfort, the vast majority recommend this excursion over cruise line offerings, citing the better value and more personalized experience.

Meeting Point and Transport

At the Costa Maya Port in Mexico, guests check in at the office near the large Mayan pyramid replica before departing on this excursion.

They then board an air-conditioned minivan which provides bottled water for the journey.

The transportation takes guests directly to the ancient Mayan city of Chacchoben, the main highlight of the tour.

Along the way, the knowledgeable local guides share insights about Mayan history and culture, preparing visitors for the exploration of the archaeological site.

Activities at Chacchoben

Guests explore the ancient Mayan city of Chacchoben, wandering among the reconstructed temple pyramids and stelae adorned with intricate hieroglyphics.

They observe diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and armadillos, as they learn about the Mayan civilization dating back to 200 BC.

The tour allows visitors to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of this remarkable archaeological site.

After the on-site exploration, guests have the opportunity to visit the gift shop and browse for souvenirs to commemorate their Chacchoben adventure.

Local Stops and Souvenirs

Along With exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Chacchoben, the tour provides opportunities for guests to sample local pineapple and visit the nearby town of Mahahual for authentic Mexican cuisine.

The group will stop at a local stand to taste the fresh, juicy pineapple grown in the region.

Afterward, they’ll have time to wander through Mahahual, a quaint coastal town that offers a glimpse of traditional Mexican culture. Visitors can browse the shops for handcrafted souvenirs and trinkets or indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of the seaside restaurants, savoring the flavors of regional dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price does not include food and drinks, except for bottled water provided during transport. Guests have the opportunity to sample local pineapple and visit Mahahual for authentic Mexican cuisine at their own expense.

Can I Explore the Ruins Independently or Must I Stay With the Group?

Visitors must stay with the guided group to explore the Chacchoben ruins. Independent exploration is not permitted, as the tour is structured to provide a rundown of the ancient Mayan site and its history.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity at the Archaeological Site?

The tour spends around 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the Chacchoben archaeological site, allowing visitors to wander the reconstructed temple pyramids, examine hieroglyphics, and observe the diverse wildlife at their own pace within the group.

Are Professional Photographs/Videos Allowed at the Mayan Ruins?

Visitors are generally permitted to take photographs and videos at the Mayan ruins. However, the use of professional photography equipment or filming for commercial purposes may require prior authorization from the site management.

Can I Leave the Group to Explore Mahahual on My Own During the Visit?

According to the tour overview, guests may have an opportunity to visit Mahahual, but it’s not clear if they can explore it independently. The tour includes stops there, but the extent of independent exploration is not specified.

The Sum Up

The Costa Maya Shore Excursion to Chacchoben offers an enriching cultural experience. Participants can explore the ancient Mayan city, observe local wildlife, and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. With knowledgeable guides, air-conditioned transportation, and a worry-free guarantee, this tour provides a convenient and immersive way to discover the region’s rich history and traditions.