Cenote Hubiku & Ikkil Swim and Chichen Itza Tour from Tulum City

A Day of Marvels: Cenote Hubiku & Ikkil Swim and Chichen Itza Tour from Tulum

If you’re visiting Tulum and craving a full day of adventure combining ancient ruins, natural beauty, and local culture, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. For $123 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours exploring Chichen Itza, swimming in two crystal-clear cenotes, and strolling through the colonial streets of Valladolid. Led by friendly guides (though their names aren’t specified), this trip is ideal for those eager to see the highlights of the Yucatan in one day without feeling rushed.

What we particularly appreciate are the opportunities to swim in the cenotes, which aren’t just sightseeing but genuine refreshers—perfect for beating the heat and enjoying nature’s cool embrace. The regional buffet offers hearty, traditional dishes, and the walk through Valladolid gives a taste of local life and crafts, rounding out the cultural experience.

A possible drawback? The itinerary is quite packed, which means long travel periods and little time at each stop. If you prefer a slow pace with more time for photos or browsing, this might feel a bit hurried. Still, for first-timers or those with limited time in the Yucatan, it’s a solid way to see a lot in one day.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, nature, and authentic local flavors. It’s especially good if you’re eager to tick off Chichen Itza from your list and love snorkeling or swimming in cenotes. Families, history buffs, and adventure seekers will find much to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines Mayan ruins, cenote swims, and a town visit for a full Yucatan experience.
• Value for price: Includes transport, entrance fees, buffet, and drinks—covering most essentials for a single fee.
• Time management: The schedule is tight, so be prepared for a busy day with some quick stops.
• Authentic encounters: Enjoy regional dishes and a walk through Valladolid to get a real sense of local culture.
• Natural beauty and history: Two cenotes provide refreshing natural scenery, while Chichen Itza offers awe-inspiring history.
• Group size: Max of 50 travelers, which balances social atmosphere with comfort.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Tour’s Highlights

Starting Early and Getting There

The tour begins at 7:00 am at the Súper Akí in Tulum, a convenient central meeting point. From there, a comfortable round-trip transportation takes you through the Yucatan countryside—an opportunity to get a feel for the landscape and perhaps spot some local life along the way.

You’ll likely appreciate that drinks are provided during transit, helping keep you refreshed for the long day ahead. The small group size, capped at 50 travelers, keeps things intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized attention, but large enough to foster a lively atmosphere.

First Stop: Cenote Ik Kil

The journey kicks off with a visit to Cenote Ik Kil, one of the most iconic cenotes in the area. The tour’s description emphasizes the formation of the Yucatan’s underground aquifers, making this stop a natural spectacle. We loved the way the sunlight filters through the opening at the top, illuminating the water and creating an almost mystical vibe.

You’ll spend about an hour here, swimming in the cool, clear waters. The entrance fee is included, so you’re all set to jump in and enjoy this natural wonder—though you might want to bring a towel or change of clothes for after your swim. Many reviews mention the stunning views and the invigorating experience of floating in the cenote, often calling it a highlight of the day.

Exploring Chichen Itza

Next, you’re off to the famous Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The site is a sprawling testament to the advanced civilization of the Mayan people, with highlights like the El Castillo pyramid, the Sacred Cenote, and the Ball Court. Your guide (though unnamed in the info) will likely point out the significance of each monument, especially the Temple of the Thousand Columns and the Observatory.

You’ll have around two hours to walk through the grounds—ample time to soak in the history, take photos, and marvel at the intricate stonework. It’s a chance to picture ancient ceremonies and the complex astronomical knowledge of the Mayans. The entrance is free with your ticket, making this a fantastic value considering the site’s popularity and significance.

Second Cenote: Hubiku

After the ruins, the day continues with a visit to Cenote Hubiku, another stunning sinkhole where sunlight beams in through the opening above, illuminating the water below. This cenote offers a more mystical, serene atmosphere—perfect for a quick dip or just relaxing on the shore.

Most reviews praise the scenery here, describing it as a “beautiful cenote in the deeps on the ground, bathed by sunlight”—a perfect setting for a quiet moment or some memorable photos. The water is fresh and clear, inviting you to swim or simply enjoy the view. The fee is included, so no worries about extra costs here.

Cultural Stop in Valladolid

The final stop is the charming Valladolid, a city that exudes history and local color. Founded in 1543 around the Mayan city of Zací, it’s a place where you can wander cobblestone streets, browse local crafts, and sample street food.

You’ll have about 30 minutes, so don’t expect to see everything, but you’ll get enough time to soak in the atmosphere and maybe pick up a souvenir. Many travelers appreciate this break, describing Valladolid as a “hospitable city full of history” that adds a human touch to the day’s explorations.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up back at the starting point around late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and pace. You’ll leave with a sense of connection—both to ancient civilizations and the natural beauty of the Yucatan.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Bring swim gear: Swimsuits, towels, and extra clothes are essential, especially for the cenotes.
• Dress comfortably: Light, breathable clothes, sturdy shoes, and sunglasses will help you stay comfortable.
• Protect yourself: Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to preserve the environment and avoid bites.
• Budget considerations: The tour fee covers most costs, but the preservation tax of $15 per adult and $10 per child isn’t included—be prepared to pay this at the sites.
• Timing: The schedule is tight; expect some quick stops. If you want more leisurely experiences, consider alternatives.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a packed, all-in-one adventure that balances history, nature, and culture. If you’re eager to see Chichen Itza without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets, this is a good choice. It’s also great for those who love swimming in cenotes, as you’ll visit two of the most beautiful ones in the region.

Families with children who can handle a long, busy day will find it manageable, especially since transportation and entrance fees are included. History buffs will appreciate the detailed explanations of the ruins, while those seeking authentic regional flavors will enjoy the buffet and Valladolid stroll.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling way to experience Yucatan’s most iconic sights without the headache of planning each detail yourself. It strikes a good balance between guided exploration and free time, and the inclusion of two cenotes makes it stand out from more conventional ruin tours.

While it’s a long day with a fairly tight schedule, most travelers find the value in seeing Chichen Itza and swimming in the cenotes in one go. The scenic beauty, the historical significance, and the flavor of local life all come together to create a memorable experience.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-organized way to get a taste of the Yucatan’s highlights with delicious food and stunning views, this tour fits the bill. Just be ready for a full day, and you’ll come away with plenty of stories—and maybe a few great photos—of your time in Mexico.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 12 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

What is included in the price?
Transport from Tulum, entrance fees to Chichen Itza, the cenotes, regional buffet, drinks during transit, and a box lunch.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a preservation tax of $15 USD per adult and $10 USD per child is not included and must be paid separately at the sites.

What should I bring?
Swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families who can handle a busy schedule will find it manageable and enjoyable.

How many people are in the group?
Up to 50, balancing a social atmosphere with some personal space.

What is the main highlight?
The visit to Chichen Itza—a must-see UNESCO World Heritage site—and the opportunity to swim in beautiful cenotes.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, but the schedule is tight, so expect some quick visits rather than extended stays.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
While their names aren’t specified, guides are generally there to explain the significance of each site.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking in advance is recommended, and the tour is weather-dependent—bad weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

In essence, this tour offers a satisfying mix of history, nature, and local culture. It’s a practical choice for those looking to maximize their time in Yucatan while experiencing some of the most iconic sights the region has to offer.