Chichen Itza Plus with Cenote from Cancun and Playa del Carmen offers a full-day excursion into the heart of Yucatán’s most iconic sights. For $87 per person, you’ll spend around 12 hours visiting the famous Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, cooling off in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Saamal, and enjoying some free time in the charming town of Valladolid. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a regional buffet lunch, and a bilingual guide who can bring the history and significance of each stop to life.
What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is the combination of culture and natural beauty—you get to walk among ancient structures and then float in a natural sinkhole. The inclusion of free time in Valladolid is another plus, giving you a chance to explore at your own pace and soak in local ambiance. The guide, Henry, was highlighted in reviews as the most engaging part of the trip, which shows that a knowledgeable guide can make all the difference.
However, a potential downside is the feeling that the day can be somewhat rushed, especially if you’re eager to spend more time at each site. Some reviews also mention that the tour can lean toward a sales pitch, with a focus on encouraging purchases outside what’s included. This might not bother everyone, but it’s worth considering if you prefer a more relaxed, purely educational experience.
This tour is best suited for those wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing with minimal hassle—ideal for first-time visitors to the area or those short on time but eager to see the key highlights of the Yucatán. If you’re comfortable with guided tours and don’t mind a busy schedule, this could be an efficient way to tick off some major sights.
Key Points
- All-in-one experience: Combines ancient ruins, a stunning cenote, and a charming town.
- Includes hotel pickup: No need to worry about transportation logistics.
- Guided insights: Henry and other guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.
- Natural and cultural: Offers a balanced mix of history and nature.
- Potential for sales pitches: Some reviews noted heavy emphasis on purchasing souvenirs.
- Good value: The price covers transportation, food, guide, and entry fees.
In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience
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The Itinerary Breakdown
Starting early at 7:00am, the tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cancun or the Riviera Maya. This early start is essential to maximize your day, especially since the drive to Chichen Itza takes about 2 hours. The group size is capped at 60 travelers, which helps keep things manageable but could still feel somewhat crowded during peak times.
Chichen Itza (2 hours):
This is the tour’s centerpiece. The Temple of Kukulcán dominates the site—its precise steps and ancient carvings are truly awe-inspiring. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the pyramid and the astronomical alignments that fascinate many visitors. The guide, Henry, was noted for providing the kind of stories and insights you won’t get from a guidebook, making the visit more meaningful.
Keep in mind that admission to Chichen Itza is included, but there are additional costs you might face, such as a $22 USD preservation tax for adults and $19 USD for children. Also, if you wish to wear a life vest while exploring the ruins, it costs an extra $4 USD. These extras are standard, but it’s good to budget ahead.
Cenote Saamal (1 hour 30 minutes):
After exploring the ruins, the trip continues to Cenote Saamal, just outside Valladolid. This natural sinkhole offers stunning views, with sunlight piercing through the opening above, illuminating the turquoise waters below. We loved the way the sunlight plays on the rocks and water—it’s a perfect spot for photos and cooling off after the heat of the ruins.
Bring your swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes—many travelers find this the most relaxing part of the day. The included admission makes this a real highlight, especially since the waters are so inviting. You’ll have some time to swim or just float and enjoy the scenery.
Valladolid (30 minutes):
A short stop here allows you to stretch your legs and enjoy a quick look at this vibrant town. The reviews highlight that you can explore at your own pace, which is a big plus for those wanting a taste of local life. Notably, the guide might point out local sites or history, but some travelers felt the visit was brief—so don’t expect an in-depth tour of Valladolid.
What the Tour Offers and Challenges
The guided portions are well-structured, with Henry providing engaging commentary. We appreciated the regional buffet lunch, which offers a chance to refuel before the long day concludes. The included beverages—water and sodas—are standard, but some reviews suggest that the tour tends to push additional sales, whether for souvenirs or extras.
Transport-wise, the coaches are comfortable enough for the long day, with convenient pickup from major hotels. The timing means you’ll want to wear comfortable clothes and appropriate footwear, especially for walking at Chichen Itza and around Valladolid.
Authenticity and Tour Quality
Authentic experiences can be hit or miss depending on the guide and the group dynamic. Based on reviews, Henry is a highlight—his knowledge and presentation style make the ancient site more interesting. However, some travelers noted the tour’s tendency toward sales pitches, which might detract from a more relaxed experience. The focus on shopping can feel a bit insistent, so if you prefer purely educational tours, this might be a less ideal choice.
Value for Money
At $87, this tour covers transport, entry fees, a regional buffet, beverages, and guidance—a fair package considering the logistics involved. Still, the extra costs for souvenirs or extras can add up, so it’s wise to have some cash handy.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience works best for those who want to see iconic sites without the hassle of planning. It’s suitable for first-timers eager to explore Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid in one day. If you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind a busy schedule, you’ll likely find this worthwhile. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are sensitive to high-pressure sales, you might want to explore other options.
The Sum Up
Chichen Itza Plus with Cenote offers a comprehensive way to enjoy some of the Yucatán’s must-see sights in one well-organized day. The mix of ancient ruins, natural beauty, and local culture makes for a memorable experience, especially with a guide who can bring history alive. The inclusion of a cenote provides a refreshing break from walking and sightseeing, adding an authentic natural touch to the trip.
While the tour’s structure is solid, some travelers may find the pace a bit quick and the emphasis on shopping distracting. Still, for those wanting an efficient, guided experience that covers key highlights, this tour offers good value—especially if it’s your first visit to the region. Just remember to budget for the optional extras and prepare for a full, physically active day.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Cancun and Riviera Maya hotels, making logistics straightforward.
How long is the drive to Chichen Itza?
It takes approximately 2 hours each way, so be prepared for a longer travel day.
Are there any additional costs not included in the price?
Yes, there are optional costs like a $22 USD preservation tax for adults at Chichen Itza, $19 USD for children, and a $4 USD life vest if you wish to wear one while exploring the ruins.
Can I explore Valladolid on my own?
Yes, the tour provides about 30 minutes in Valladolid for self-guided exploration at your own pace.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, comfortable shoes, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), and extra clothes if you plan to swim in the cenote.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers, including families, can participate, but be prepared for a busy schedule and some walking.
What is the group size?
The maximum is 60 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable but can still feel busy during peak times.
In the end, this tour is a good option if you want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure and natural beauty, all wrapped up in a single day. It’s especially suited for those who value guided insights and don’t mind a packed schedule.