Private Travel to Chichen itza build your Itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Cancun and eager to explore one of Mexico’s most iconic archaeological sites, this Private Travel to Chichen Itza offers a lovely blend of flexibility and insight. For around $800 per person, you get a 12-hour journey that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. The tour is designed to be customized — you choose your pickup time and build your itinerary from several fascinating stops, making it a more personal experience than typical group outings.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its private nature, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more relaxed pace and tailored questions. Plus, the transportation is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort after hours of exploring. Two standout features are the opportunity to visit multiple cenotes, each with its own unique charm, and the chance to stroll through the charming town of Valladolid, giving a broader sense of the region’s character.

However, it’s worth noting that admission fees to the cenotes are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to swim. Also, this tour is best suited for those who want a flexible, in-depth experience without the constraints of a large group. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy customizing their days and are eager to combine archaeological exploration with natural beauty and local town visits.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with the ability to choose your pickup time and build your itinerary
• Private tour ensures a relaxed pace and exclusive access for your group
• Multiple cenote visits offer unique swimming and photo opportunities
• Includes Valladolid, a charming colonial town for a cultural break
• Guided tour at Chichen Itza provides insight into the famous pyramid and other structures
• Transportation and water included, but extra for cenote entry and lunch

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Chichen Itza: The Heart of the Tour

Starting around 8:30 am, this tour’s main highlight is the visit to Chichen Itza, one of the seven wonders of the world. The guided exploration lasts about two hours, during which you’ll learn from your local guide about the pyramid of Kukulcan, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Juego de Pelota. You’ll also see the sacred cenote — a site that held ritual significance for the ancient Maya.

What makes this stop particularly engaging is the opportunity to ask questions and get context from someone knowledgeable about Mayan culture. Many reviews praise guides for their insightful commentary, making history come alive amidst the stone ruins. Expect to see the iconic pyramid, with its perfectly aligned steps designed for astronomical observations, and the Temple of the Warriors, with its intricate carvings.

Valladolid: A Colonial Charm Stop

Next, you’ll visit Valladolid for about an hour. This colorful town, founded in 1543, still sports its colonial charm with cobblestone streets and a lively main square. You’ll have time to walk around, snap photos at the main park, and perhaps visit the San Servacio church — a Spanish-built monument of cultural fusion. The reviews note that this stop provides a great break from the ruins and offers a glimpse into local life.

Cenote Hopping: Swimming and Photography Opportunities

The tour includes visits to three cenotes: Ik Kil, Suytun, Samula, and Xkeken. Each cenote presents a different visual and swimming experience:

• Ik Kil: Known for its stunning vertical drop and lush surroundings, many travelers say it’s the most amazing cenote they’ve seen. Be prepared for a crowd, as it’s the most famous one.
• Suytun: Famous for its photogenic platform and less crowded atmosphere, the water here is a bit cold but refreshing once you’re in. Many love the way the sunlight filters through.
• Samula: Its crystal-clear waters and the hanging roots make for a magical scene.
• Xkeken: Located inside an underground cavern, it’s perfect for those seeking a quieter, more intimate experience with striking reflections of light through the small entrance.

Note that entry fees for the cenotes are not included, so you should plan for approximately $10-20 per cenote.

Optional Extras and Practicalities

While the tour provides water and transportation, you will need to pay additional for cenote entrance fees and lunch if you wish, as these are not included. Some travelers suggest bringing cash to cover these extras. The pick-up time is flexible, which is a significant advantage if you want to sleep in or start early.

Why This Tour Works Well

We love the customizable nature of this experience. Being able to select your start time and skip the rigid schedules makes it ideal for travelers who want a more tailored day. The exclusive private setting means fewer distractions and more opportunity to engage with your guide, especially at Chichen Itza, where the guide’s insights enrich your understanding of the site.

The mix of archaeological wonders, quaint town strolls, and natural cenotes offers a well-rounded day, blending history, culture, and nature. This is perfect if you’re keen on a more authentic and less crowded experience than the typical bus tour.

Possible Drawbacks

One potential downside is the cost — $800 per person — which might seem high, especially considering that additional fees for cenotes and lunch are separate. Travelers should also note that the tour’s duration means a long day, with around 12 hours from pickup to return, so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a full schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who value flexibility and want an intimate, personalized experience. It appeals to those interested in Mayan culture and history, as well as visitors eager to swim in cenotes and explore local towns. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a flexible itinerary and enjoy natural spots, this could be an ideal choice.

Final Thoughts

This Private Travel to Chichen Itza offers a thoughtful mix of archaeological exploration, culture, and natural beauty. It’s particularly appealing because it allows you to customize your day, avoid large crowds, and learn from guides who bring the sites to life.

While the price point might seem steep, the private setting, customizable itinerary, and inclusion of multiple cenotes justify the cost for those who want a more personalized experience. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and depth over a rushed, cookie-cutter tour.

If you’re looking for a more authentic adventure that balances history, scenery, and local culture, this tour offers a satisfying way to see the highlights of the region while making it your own.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Tour Answered

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private activity, so only your group will participate, which allows for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Can I choose my pickup time?
Absolutely. The tour offers flexibility to select your preferred morning pickup, making it easier to fit into your travel plans.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to the cenotes are not included. You should budget around $10-$20 per cenote if you plan to swim.

What about lunch?
Lunch or a buffet is not included in the price, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the stops.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but note that children under 3 need their own seat, and the tour price applies per seat.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 12 hours, starting at 8:30 am.

What’s the condition of the transportation?
The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfortable travel between sites.

Are guided tours available at each stop?
Yes, guide services are included at Chichen Itza, and you’ll have some free time at Valladolid and the cenotes for your own exploration.

To sum it up

This private, build-your-own itinerary tour from Cancun stands out for its personalized approach and combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a more intimate experience with fewer crowds, especially if you value guidance and flexibility. While it requires a bit of planning and extra budget for extras, the peace of mind and customization are what make it worth considering. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just want a more relaxed day exploring Mayan sites, this tour offers a well-rounded and memorable way to experience the region.