Tourist transport Chichen Itza and 2 cenotes from Valladolid

Valladolid’s Chichen Itza and Cenotes Tour: A Genuine Day of Exploration and Refreshment

If you’re looking to explore one of Mexico’s most famous archaeological sites and enjoy some of the region’s most beautiful natural swimming spots, this tour from Valladolid offers a well-rounded day. For around $59 per person, you’ll spend about 7 to 8 hours visiting Chichen Itza at dawn, then cooling off in two spectacular cenotes, with a small group of like-minded travelers. The tour includes hotel pickup, which is rare for a trip at this price point, making the logistics straightforward and stress-free.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the early access to Chichen Itza—arriving right at opening time means fewer crowds and more comfortable photo opportunities—and the two different cenotes, providing diverse environments for swimming and exploring. The first cenote, Xcajum, is open sky and offers a buffet meal, perfect for refueling. The second, Noolha, is a cave-like cenote, ideal for those seeking a more adventurous, immersive experience.

One aspect worth considering is that admission tickets are not included in the base price, so you’ll need to budget extra for entry fees, which adds to the overall cost. Also, the lack of a guided tour at Chichen Itza means you’ll need to decide whether you want to explore independently or hire a guide on-site. This flexible setup might suit those who prefer a more intimate, less commercial experience but could be a downside for travelers seeking detailed historical context.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced blend of history, nature, and adventure without the crowds. It’s ideal for those who value small-group intimacy and are eager to see the region’s highlights with minimal fuss.

Key Points

• Early access to Chichen Itza helps beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit.
• Small group sizes (up to 8 travelers) foster a more personal and flexible experience.
• Two distinct cenotes provide varied environments — open sky and cave-like — perfect for swimming and exploration.
• Admission tickets are separate, so plan your budget accordingly.
• Hotel pickup simplifies logistics, especially for travelers staying in Valladolid.
• The tour balances cultural exploration with natural beauty, making it suitable for diverse interests.

Exploring the Tour Itinerary in Depth

Visiting Chichen Itza at Dawn: Why It Matters

Starting early, with pickup around 6:45 or 7:00 a.m., means you arrive when the site opens. This is a major advantage. As one traveler said, “We loved the way we got there right when it opened, so we avoided the heat and crowds.” This early arrival allows for a more relaxed exploration, taking in the iconic pyramid of Kukulcán, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Ball Court without the usual throngs of travelers. You’ll have ample time to appreciate the scale and craftsmanship of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Since admission tickets are not included in the tour price, you’ll need to purchase your entry in advance or on-site. The foreign fare costs MX$671.00, while Mexican residents pay MX$298.00. This fee is a significant add-on but worthwhile if you value a quieter, more contemplative visit. You might find that arriving early makes the extra cost more bearable because you’ll get better photos and fewer interruptions.

The Open Sky Xcajum Cenote and Lunch: A Refreshing Interlude

After touring Chichen Itza, your next stop is Xcajum Cenote, an open-air marvel with crystal-clear water. This cenote allows you to swim, relax, and cool down from the morning’s heat. The buffet lunch served here is a local regional flavor, which many find to be both satisfying and authentic. One reviewer highlighted, “The buffet was delicious, and it was nice to chill in the water afterward.” The admission fee for the cenote and buffet is MX$400, so plan to include this when considering your total costs.

This cenote isn’t just a swimming hole; it’s a beautiful natural space with a lush backdrop. Its open sky setting makes it ideal for photo opportunities, and the water’s clarity ensures memorable swims.

Noolha Cenote: A Cave-Like Wonder

The final stop is Noolha Cenote, a relatively new site dubbed the “cave-like cenote,” perfect for those seeking a more adventurous experience. Here, you’ll get to zip line and wear flotation vests, adding a bit of adrenaline to your day. This cenote is deep and offers a different atmosphere from Xcajum—more enclosed, mysterious, and awe-inspiring. Visitors have described it as “speechless,” and it’s often rated a highlight for its unique environment.

With a ticket costing MX$250, including zip lining and vest use, this stop offers a memorable peek into the Mayan underworld and an excellent photo opportunity. Expect about an hour to explore this cenote thoroughly.

Transportation and Group Size

This tour combines comfortable transportation, with pick-up and drop-off included if you select that option. The vehicle is shared with a small group of up to 8 travelers, which creates an intimate atmosphere and allows for more flexibility compared to large bus tours. Having a dedicated driver means you don’t have to worry about navigation or parking, and the water bottles on board keep you refreshed throughout the day.

Practical Considerations

Timing is tight but manageable; with 7 to 8 hours in total, you’ll get a good taste of each stop without feeling rushed. However, since admission tickets are not included, and you might choose to explore Chichen Itza with a guide, be prepared for some extra planning and costs.

Authentic Experience Versus Convenience

This tour balances authenticity and convenience. The early visit to Chichen Itza enhances the experience, but without a guide, you’ll need to do some reading or bring a guidebook to fully appreciate the site. The cenotes are natural, uncommercialized spaces—perfect for those craving genuine scenery without crowds.

The inclusion of small group sizes and flexible stops make it more personal than large, bus-based alternatives. Reviews highlight that travelers appreciated “the quiet and peaceful environment,” especially at the cenotes, and enjoyed the crystal-clear waters.

Pricing and Value

At $58.91 per person (plus entrance fees), this tour offers good value, especially considering the hotel pickup and small group format. The main costs are the admission tickets to Chichen Itza and the cenotes, which bring the total closer to $100–$130 per person once all fees are included.

While the price doesn’t include a guided tour at Chichen Itza, you could hire a guide on-site if you want detailed explanations. The self-guided approach works well if you’re comfortable exploring independently and want to keep costs down.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is especially ideal for travelers who prioritize early access and avoiding crowds. It’s perfect if you love natural swimming spots, want a small, intimate group, and appreciate authentic scenery. Those with limited time in Valladolid but eager to see significant highlights will find this a solid choice.

It’s less suited for travelers who want a fully guided archaeological tour or prefer all-inclusive packages. Also, if you’re budget-conscious, remember that admission costs are extra, so budget accordingly.

The Sum Up

In essence, this tour from Valladolid offers a thoughtfully balanced day that combines the ancient majesty of Chichen Itza with the refreshing beauty of cenotes. Its early start, small group size, and focus on authentic experiences make it stand out from more mass-market options. You’ll leave with better photos, fewer crowds, and memories of stunning natural and cultural sights.

For travelers craving a personalized, relaxed, and immersive day, this tour provides excellent value. It’s well-suited for those willing to pay a little extra for the convenience of hotel pickup, the thrill of swimming in natural cenotes, and the chance to avoid the busiest times at Chichen Itza.

If your goal is to enjoy a genuine, crowd-free experience with a dash of adventure, this tour could be your perfect fit. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash for tickets, and a spirit eager for discovery.

FAQs

Are the tickets to Chichen Itza included in the price?
No, the tour price does not include the entry tickets. You will need to purchase them separately either in advance or on-site, with costs varying for foreign and Mexican visitors.

What’s the pickup time?
Pickup is usually offered from 6:45 a.m. or 7:00 a.m., so be ready early to start your adventure at the site’s opening.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, but children should be comfortable with walking, swimming, and the early start.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are there any meal options included?
A buffet lunch is available at Xcajum Cenote, included in the cenote admission fee, providing regional flavors and a chance to relax.

What about guides during the site visits?
The tour does not include a guide at Chichen Itza, so you can explore independently or hire a guide on-site if desired.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, if you select the transportation option, pickup and drop-off at your Valladolid hotel are included, simplifying your day.

This comprehensive, balanced tour offers a wonderful way to combine history, nature, and adventure without the hustle and bustle of larger groups. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet memorable day exploring the highlights of Yucatán.