Valladolid: Chichén Itzá and 2 Cenotes Shared Day Trip

Valladolid: Chichén Itzá and 2 Cenotes Shared Day Trip

Starting at just $56 per person, this 8-hour tour takes you from the charming town of Valladolid to explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá, followed by refreshing swims in two captivating cenotes. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this trip offers a balance of culture and natural beauty, all in a small group of fewer than ten travelers.

What we especially love about this tour is how early it departs, giving us a head start on the crowds at Chichén Itzá—a huge plus on the busy days—and how the visit combines both ancient archaeology and stunning natural sites. The two cenotes are very different but equally beautiful, offering a unique chance to swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush scenery.

One potential consideration is the entrance fee for Chichén Itzá (about $671 MXN), which isn’t included in the price, so travelers should budget for that. Also, the tour’s focus on natural sites and archaeology makes it less ideal for those seeking a relaxed, purely leisure-focused day or those with mobility issues due to walking around the ruins and cenotes.

This experience suits history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see iconic Mayan ruins while enjoying a laid-back, authentic day trip. If you’re interested in learning from local guides with a passion for Mayan culture, this tour hits the mark.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Early start for avoiding crowds at Chichén Itzá makes a big difference.
• Small group size ensures a more personal, engaging experience.
• Two distinct cenotes provide natural contrast and swimming opportunities.
• Expert local guides enhance understanding of Mayan culture and history.
• Price is affordable, but budget extra for site entrance fees.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind before booking.

Exploring the Wonders of Valladolid’s Chichén Itzá and Cenotes

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Yucatán’s most iconic sights—an ideal mix of history, natural beauty, and local flavor. Let’s look at what makes each part of the day memorable and what you should expect.

The Early Departure and Transportation

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Valladolid, a charming town that itself is worth exploring. The transportation is shared but limited to a small group—up to ten people—ensuring fewer crowds and more personalized attention. The van, marked with the Xentour logo and staff in uniforms, arrives promptly, and the driver, who speaks Spanish, handles the road safely while you relax.

By leaving early, you arrive at Chichén Itzá around the prime time before the midday rush. This is a real advantage, as the site can get crowded fast—so getting there early means more room to wander and enjoy the monuments without feeling hurried. The tour includes about two hours at the site, a good amount of time to see the main structures.

Chichén Itzá: The Heart of the Tour

Chichén Itzá is a marvel of ancient architecture, and you’ll see its most famous feature, the Kukulkán pyramid (El Castillo). Its stepped design and the way sunlight plays on its sides are captivating—you’re not just taking photos, you’re experiencing a site that was once a powerful Mayan city.

Other highlights include the ancient observatory and the sacred cenote, which once held sacrificial offerings. Your guide (if you choose to have one) will share stories and facts that help you understand the significance of these structures.

The entry fee of around 671 MXN (about $35 USD) isn’t included, so remember to bring cash or your card to cover this. Parking at the site costs an additional 60 MXN per person. These costs add up, but they’re part of the authentic experience of visiting a UNESCO World Heritage site.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cenotes: Natural Refreshments

After the archaeological exploration, it’s time for some cooling off in two different cenotes: Xcajum and Noolha. Both are open-air, showcasing the stunning natural limestone formations and crystal-clear waters that make cenotes such a unique part of Yucatán.

Xcajum is known for its beautiful setting and is a favorite among travelers for swimming and relaxing. The tour includes a chance to eat, drink, and wear a life jacket if desired—costing about $400 MXN (roughly $20 USD).

Cenote Noolha offers a more secluded experience, with about 1.5 hours allowed for swimming and enjoying the natural surroundings. The entrance fee is around $250 MXN. Both cenotes provide opportunities for taking photos—so bring your waterproof cameras or smartphones—and just enjoy the natural beauty.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

The tour recommends comfortable shoes, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, light clothing, and cash for entrance fees and snacks. Insect repellent is also advised, especially if you plan to linger around the cenotes.

The small group size creates a friendly atmosphere, but it’s important to be prepared for walking and some uneven terrain at the ruins and around the cenotes. The guide, like Mica in some reviews, is praised for being very knowledgeable, sharing stories about Mayan culture and the sites’ significance, which adds depth to the experience.

What Some Travelers Say

One traveler from France called it a “Très belle excursion,” highlighting the extraordinary cenote at Hacienda La Guadalupana as a highlight. An Italian traveler noted, “We basically had a private tour,” with Mica’s knowledge making the day even more special. The consistent praise for guides and stunning views shows how much these personal touches matter.

The Return Trip

After swimming and exploring, the group is transported back to Valladolid, typically after about 8 hours. You’ll arrive in the late afternoon, with plenty of time to explore the town further or relax after a full day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers looking for an affordable, culturally rich experience that balances archaeological exploration with natural scenery. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate small group settings and value guided insights into Mayan history and traditions. If you’re pressed for time but want to see Chichén Itzá without the chaos of larger tours, this early-start trip hits the sweet spot.

It’s less ideal for travelers who prefer luxurious amenities or longer, more relaxed days without site entrance costs, but overall, it offers excellent value for those eager to see the highlights of Yucatán.

The Sum Up

This Valladolid day trip to Chichén Itzá and two cenotes offers an authentic, well-paced experience that balances history, natural beauty, and cultural insights. The early start means fewer crowds and more room to enjoy the monuments, while the small group ensures a personal touch.

The tour’s two cenotes provide refreshing breaks in stunning natural settings, and knowledgeable guides help unravel the mysteries of Mayan civilization, making the experience both fun and educational. For travelers who want to see iconic ruins, swim in cenotes, and enjoy Yucatán’s natural charm—all at a reasonable price—this tour is a smart choice.

If you’re seeking a compact, engaging adventure that combines history with leisure and local expertise, this trip is likely to be a highlight of your Yucatán trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and shared transportation are included in the tour price, with a small-group setting for a more personalized experience.

What is the cost of entrance fees?
Entry to Chichén Itzá costs approximately 671 MXN, which is not included. You should budget extra for parking (60 MXN) and cenote entrance fees (400 MXN for Xcajum, 250 MXN for Noolha).

How long do we stay at each site?
You will have about 2 hours at Chichén Itzá, with several opportunities to explore the main structures. The cenotes are allotted roughly 3.5 hours combined for swimming and relaxing.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, but keep in mind that walking around ruins and swimming in cenotes requires mobility and stamina. Bring appropriate footwear and be prepared for some uneven ground.

Are meals included?
Lunch is available at Xcajum cenote, included in the $400 MXN fee. The tour does not include other meals, so you might want to bring snacks or extra cash.

What is the group size?
Limited to up to 10 participants, ensuring a friendly and less hurried experience.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The driver speaks Spanish, so guides or commentary might be limited in English, although some reviews mention knowledgeable guides.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Both the ruins and cenotes offer stunning photo opportunities, especially with fewer crowds early in the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, light clothes, cash, and insect repellent are recommended. No luggage is allowed, so pack light.

This tour combines practicality with a genuine sense of adventure, making it a fantastic way to experience Yucatán’s timeless charm without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: