Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Tequila and Lunch

Discover the Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Tour offered by Amigo Tours for just $29 per person. This full-day adventure lasts approximately 12 hours, starting with hotel pickup from Cancun, Riviera Maya, or Playa del Carmen. The tour includes visits to the famous Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, a refreshing swim in a cenote, and a stroll through the charming town of Valladolid. It also features an authentic Mexican buffet and a lively tequila tasting. With a rating of 4.5 from over 14,400 reviews, this tour remains a popular choice, especially given its affordability and detailed itinerary.

While the tour offers comprehensive sightseeing with guided explanations, it’s important to note the additional Chichen Itza tax of $42, payable in cash or credit card. The group size is capped at 40, promoting a comfortable experience, and bookings are frequent, with the tour being booked more than 5 times in 12 hours. This experience suits those looking for an engaging, well-organized day trip with a mix of history, nature, and local culture.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $29, including multiple attractions, lunch, and tequila tasting
• Full-day tour lasting around 12 hours with hotel pickup options
• Visit Chichen Itza, cenote Chichikan, and the colonial town of Valladolid
• Guided tour with expert bilingual guides providing detailed insights
• Includes a Mexican buffet lunch with vegetarian options and access to cenote facilities
• Additional Chichen Itza tax of $42 payable on-site or by credit card

Visit the Iconic Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza

The tour begins with a visit to Chichen Itza, a World Heritage site that is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Here, you spend about 2 hours and 30 minutes exploring the famous El Castillo pyramid, Temple of the Warriors, and the ball court. The guides walk you through the history and significance of each structure, making it easy to imagine the site’s importance in ancient Mayan civilization.

You’ll have guided explanations of key locations, allowing you to understand the architecture and cultural relevance. To avoid crowds and the midday heat, arriving early at the site is recommended. The tour logistics include timely ticket collection and organized entry, making the most of your time exploring this incredible archaeological site.

The site features numerous vendors, which can be a distraction but also an opportunity for souvenirs. The guides handle the entry process smoothly, especially at the ticket gates, which are well-organized to facilitate quick access.

Swimming and Refreshing at Cenote Chichikan

After the ruins, the tour heads to cenote Chichikan, a stunning natural sinkhole perfect for a cool swim. Access to cenote facilities, including restrooms and dressing rooms, is included in the all-inclusive package. The waters are clear, with a waterfall adding to the picturesque setting.

Swimmers can enjoy the wooden ledge for jumping into the deep end or dip their feet in the refreshing water. Small fish in the cenote may tickle your legs as you relax in the fresh, natural water. This break provides a welcome respite from the heat and a chance to cool off before heading to lunch.

The tequila tasting that follows adds a fun taste of local culture, hosted by the community that guards the cenote, giving you a chance to sample Mexican spirits in a relaxed setting.

Authentic Mexican Buffet Lunch with Vegetarian Options

The tour includes a buffet lunch at the cenote restaurant, featuring delicious Mexican dishes like sopes, empanadas, rice, beans, chilaquiles, eggs, vegetables, and tacos. Tacos can be made to order with vegetarian options available, providing a satisfying meal after a busy morning.

The lunch setup is all-you-can-eat, with drinks available for purchase. The dessert section includes a freshly made coconut ice cream (“Helado de Coco”), highly praised for its sweetness and quality. Locker and life jacket rentals are part of the all-inclusive package, ensuring safety and convenience during the cenote swim.

This meal is well-rated for its flavor and variety, offering a true taste of regional cuisine in a comfortable setting.

Exploring the Colonial Charm of Valladolid

Following lunch, a 30-minute stop in Valladolid offers a glimpse into traditional Mexican life. The town, recently designated a Magic Town of Mexico, features a main square surrounded by colorful buildings and historic architecture.

The tour includes a guided walk around Plaza e Parque Francisco Canton, with the opportunity to take photos and soak in the local atmosphere. The Iglesia de San Servacio, a prominent Catholic church built in 1545 and rebuilt in the 1700s, is also a notable landmark.

This stop provides an authentic experience outside tourist-heavy areas, giving insight into the local culture and architecture. The brief 30-minute visit allows enough time for a quick snack or a leisurely stroll before returning to the bus for the journey back.

Comfortable Transportation and Expert Guides

Transport during this tour is provided by an air-conditioned vehicle and toll roads are used to optimize travel time. All guides are certified and fluent in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations and engaging storytelling.

From the early pickup, guides like Pastor, Rey, Marcella, and Beto are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. Several reviews highlight the professionalism of bus drivers, ensuring safe and smooth rides throughout the long day.

The tour is designed to balance guided explanations with free time, allowing guests to explore and take photos at each stop.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The tour offers hotel pickup options from most hotels in Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Playa del Carmen, with the meeting points conveniently organized. For those not opting for pickup, meeting points are available.

The price includes the Chichen Itza admission fee (tax not included), guided tours, lunch, cenote access, and tequila tasting. An additional Chichen Itza tax of $42 applies, payable in cash or credit card.

The group size is capped at 40, maintaining a comfortable and manageable experience. Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and features multiple language options.

The Experience in Numbers and Reviews

With a 4.5/5 rating from over 14,400 reviews, this tour maintains a strong reputation for value and experience. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning views at Chichen Itza, and the delicious food.

Notably, guides like Manuel, Rodrigo, Paul, and Pastor are frequently mentioned for their engagement and expertise. The early start and limited crowds at Chichen Itza are often highlighted as major advantages.

While some mention long hours, most agree that the activities are well-paced, and the fun atmosphere makes the day enjoyable. The cenote swim and Valladolid stroll are frequently described as high points.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This tour appeals to budget-conscious travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip with history, nature, and local culture. It suits those comfortable with long days and moderate physical activity, such as walking and swimming.

Travelers who value guided insights and organized logistics will find this experience especially satisfying. It’s ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers eager to see some of Mexico’s most iconic sights in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay an entrance fee at Chichen Itza?
Yes, there is an additional tax of $42 per person, payable in cash or credit card, which is not included in the tour price.

What does the buffet lunch include?
The buffet features Mexican dishes like sopes, empanadas, rice, beans, chilaquiles, eggs, vegetables, and tacos, with vegetarian options available.

Is the cenote swim included in all packages?
Access to the cenote Chichikan and locker and life jacket rentals are included in the all-inclusive package.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Guests typically spend about 2 hours and 30 minutes at Chichen Itza, with shorter visits to Valladolid and the cenote, plus some free time for photos and exploration.

What guides will I have?
Guides like Pastor, Rey, Marcella, Beto, and Manuel are known for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor, making the experience engaging and informative.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered from most hotels in Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Playa del Carmen.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, swimsuit, and towel are recommended for swimming in the cenote.

Are drinks included?
Drinks are available for purchase; one alcoholic drink is included in the all-inclusive package.

Can I customize the experience?
Booking options include different packages, with the standard tour not including lunch, while the all-inclusive covers meals, drinks, and equipment.

How do I cancel if needed?
Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance; within 24 hours, no refund is issued.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages participate, but children should be comfortable with long walks and swimming.

This Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Tour combines history, nature, and local culture in a well-organized package. Its affordable price, expert guides, and diverse activities make it a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive day trip from Cancun.