Chichén Itzá Plus: Complete Tour with Free Drinks

Imagine spending a day exploring the mystical ruins of Chichén Itzá, enjoying a leisurely stop in the colonial charm of Valladolid, and taking a refreshing dip in a cenote—without the hassle of planning logistics or worrying about transport. For $287 per person, this 12-hour guided tour combines comfort, culture, and cuisine in a way that makes it easy to soak up the best of the Yucatán Peninsula. The tour is operated by 13 Baktun Tours, who promise a comprehensive experience with shared transportation, guided explanations, regional food, and even a Mayan healing ceremony.

What we especially like about this experience is the luxury transportation—smaller, air-conditioned panoramic buses that make the long drive comfortable and pleasant—and the inclusion of free drinks onboard, which helps keep everyone refreshed while soaking in the scenery. The visit to Chichén Itzá, with guided access and free time for photos, is another highlight, making sure you get the most out of your visit without feeling rushed. Plus, the delicious buffet and swim in the Saamal Cenote add a relaxing and flavorful touch to the day.

One potential consideration is the timing and pace—with a packed schedule that includes multiple stops, some travelers might find the day slightly rushed, especially if they prefer a more leisurely experience. However, for those eager to see several highlights in one trip, the itinerary hits all the major marks.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-organized, culturally rich day without the stress of DIY planning. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors to the region, families, or those who appreciate comfort and guided insights. If you’re craving a mix of history, nature, and delicious local food, this tour offers a balanced, value-packed experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Luxury, air-conditioned panoramic buses make the long day enjoyable.
• All-inclusive experience: Drinks on board, guided access to Chichén Itzá, and a regional buffet.
• Authentic cultural touches: A Mayan healing ceremony and brief stop in Valladolid add meaningful local experiences.
• Flexible free time: Ample opportunity for photos and exploring the ruins at your own pace.
• Refresh in nature: Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Saamal.
• Value for money: Combines transport, guide, meals, and entry fees at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Comfortable departures and transportation

The tour kicks off with pickup from five convenient locations—Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, the Hotel Zone, and Tulum—making it accessible no matter where you’re staying in the region. We appreciated the luxury panoramic buses, which are equipped with air conditioning and large windows, ensuring the journey is as pleasant as possible. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention from guides.

Throughout the drive, drinks are offered—bottled purified water and Peñafiel soft drinks—which helps keep everyone hydrated and energized. Given the long drive, this small gesture makes a noticeable difference, especially on hot days.

The iconic Chichén Itzá

Your main reason for joining this tour is the visit to Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Arriving with a certified guide, you’ll get a bilingual guided tour—usually in both Spanish and English—covering the main monuments like the El Castillo pyramid, the Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors. The guide’s insights breathe life into the stones, helping you understand the significance of each structure.

The tour includes a bottle of purified water and an umbrella—a thoughtful touch, given the often intense sun and heat. You’ll have free time afterward to explore on your own, take photos, or simply soak in the surreal atmosphere of these ancient stones. Several reviews mention the advantage of guided access, ensuring you skip the crowds and get a more meaningful experience.

Lunch: Savor regional flavors

Following the exploration, the tour offers a delicious buffet featuring regional dishes. Travelers have reported that the food is plentiful, with a variety of options—probably including traditional Yucatán specialties like cochinita pibil, tamales, or fresh salads. The buffet is a great way to refuel and enjoy authentic flavors without the fuss of finding a good restaurant on your own.

Cenote Saamal: Refresh and relax

After lunch, the adventure continues with a visit to Cenote Saamal, a beautiful natural sinkhole with crystal-clear waters. The approximately 75-minute swim offers a cooling escape from the Yucatán sun, and the calm waters make for a relaxing dip. Some reviews highlight the cenote’s tranquility and scenic beauty, making this a favorite part of the day.

Just a heads-up: bring your towel, swimsuit, and possibly a change of clothes if you want to refresh before heading back. The cenote’s surroundings are generally peaceful, providing a chance to unwind before the final stops.

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Valladolid: Colonial charm and cultural flavor

The last stop is the historic city of Valladolid, known for its colorful colonial architecture and lively town squares. The 25-minute visit includes a brief photo stop and a chance to stroll through the streets, soaking up local life. This stop provides a nice contrast to the ancient ruins—adding a splash of everyday Yucatán to your trip.

Return and drop-offs

The day concludes with drop-offs at the same five locations where pickups took place. The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, which is quite full but balanced by comfort and variety.

What really makes this tour stand out is its balanced approach. You’re not just ticking off sights; you’re also experiencing Yucatán’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. The guides are trained in archaeology, adding depth to your understanding of the ruins, while the regional buffet and cenote swim add memorable, authentic touches.

The pricing at $287 per person, including transportation, guide, entry fees, meals, and drinks, offers good value compared to booking those components separately. Many reviews emphasize how smoothly the day runs—no stress over logistics, just a well-orchestrated adventure.

This tour suits travelers eager to see Chichén Itzá with knowledgeable guides and want a comprehensive day trip that combines history, nature, and culture. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting to maximize their time, families looking for a hassle-free experience, and those who appreciate comfort and authentic regional food. If you’re interested in learning about the Mayan civilization and enjoy natural swimming spots, this tour is a great pick.

The Chichén Itzá Plus tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience packed with highlights, flavorful food, and comfortable travel. The inclusion of free drinks and guided access ensures you’ll gain meaningful insights without feeling rushed. The cenote swim and Valladolid stop add a nice balance of adventure and local flavor.

For travelers who value organized convenience, authentic experiences, and value for money, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a full day of exploration without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

If your goal is to see the iconic ruins, enjoy regional cuisine, and relax with a swim, this tour checks all those boxes. Just be prepared for a busy day—though with the comforts included, it’s a small price to pay for a memorable Yucatán adventure.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary, but you can check availability for your preferred date. The pickup is arranged from your hotel, and you’ll receive specific instructions once booked.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses luxury, air-conditioned panoramic buses designed for comfort on long drives.

Are drinks included during the trip?
Yes, onboard you will find bottled purified water and Peñafiel soft drinks, which are complimentary.

How long is the visit to Chichén Itzá?
You’ll have approximately 2.5 hours on-site, including guided touring and free time for photos.

Can I swim in the Cenote Saamal?
Absolutely, the Cenote is open for swimming, and you’ll have about 75 minutes to enjoy the clear waters.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s accessible for most, but those with mobility impairments or recent surgeries should consider the walking involved around the ruins and cenote.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included, but appreciated for guides and staff if you’re pleased with the experience.

This well-rounded tour offers a compelling mix of history, nature, and regional flavors—perfect for anyone eager to make the most of a day in the Yucatán.

You can check availability for your dates here: