Private Tour Chichen itza and Cenote with lunch included

This Private Tour of Chichen Itza and Cenote with lunch included offers a well-rounded day exploring some of the Yucatan’s best-kept secrets. Priced at $178.28 per person, it provides a personalized experience with a small group, guided by a licensed professional. With an early start at 6:00 am, the tour is designed for those eager to avoid crowds and enjoy authentic encounters. The combination of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and two off-the-beaten-path cenotes, makes this trip ideal for travelers seeking both history and nature, with the bonus of a delicious home-style Yucatec lunch.

While the admission ticket to Chichen Itza costs an additional MX$670 (around $35 USD), all transportation, guide services, cenote fees, bottled water, and lunch are included in the price. The tour spans approximately 6 to 10 hours, making for a full day of exploration, relaxation, and local flavor. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate smaller groups and personalized attention, as the tour is private and limited to your booking group.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Chichen Itza and two secluded cenotes for swimming.
• Small-group experience with personalized guidance from a licensed tour guide.
• All logistics arranged with pickup and drop-off in central Merida.
• Lunch featuring traditional Yucatec dishes, with snacks and bottled water provided.
• Tour duration is approximately 6 to 10 hours, departing early at 6:00 am.
• Admission fee to Chichen Itza is paid separately, approximately MX$670.

How This Tour Combines History and Nature

This private tour from Merida emphasizes a balance between exploring Chichen Itza and enjoying nature in less crowded cenotes. The journey begins early in the morning at Catedral de San Ildefonso in Merida, with a 1.5-hour drive to the archaeological site. The early departure helps skip the biggest crowds, giving your group a more intimate experience. The guide leads you through Chichen Itza, with a focus on making the Mayan history come alive, and you’ll have time for a photo session in a less rushed manner.

After touring the ancient ruins, the adventure continues into the countryside with visits to two off-the-beaten-path cenotes. One of these cenotes was discovered in a family’s backyard, offering a chance to swim in a natural setting away from commercialized tourist spots. The cenote visit includes admission fees, and you’ll enjoy swimming in freshwater formations shaped by nature thousands of years ago. The cenotes are known for their natural beauty and tranquility, making them a highlight for many.

Following the cenote swims, a home-style lunch awaits, featuring traditional Yucatec dishes such as panuchos and salbutes. The buffet offers plenty of options, and the meal is described as both delicious and authentic, providing a genuine taste of local life. Bottled water and snacks are also included throughout the day to keep you refreshed.

Visiting Chichen Itza: Early Entrance and Guided Insight

The tour’s first major stop is Chichen Itza, with an early departure allowing your group to bypass the larger crowds and long lines typical of this popular site. The tour includes around 2 hours 30 minutes at the archaeological complex, a perfect amount of time to appreciate the iconic structures such as the Pyramid of Kukulcán, the Cenote Sagrado, and other Mayan marvels.

Your guide, Hernán, or another licensed professional, makes the history engaging and accessible, focusing on the significance of the site’s monuments and their cultural importance. While the admission fee is not included in the tour price, the ticket costs MX$670 per person, which must be purchased separately. Visitors should plan accordingly, especially if they prefer to avoid last-minute lines.

Exploring the Secluded Cenotes in the Yucatan

The highlight for many is the swim in two less commercialized cenotes, both offering a peaceful escape from popular tourist spots. These freshwater natural formations are shaped by the earth over thousands of years and feature clear, cool water perfect for swimming. One cenote was notably discovered within a family’s backyard, adding an authentic touch that few travelers experience.

The cenote fees are included in the tour, and the guided visits are tailored to ensure ample time for swimming and relaxing. The environment is natural and unspoiled, with fewer visitors than the typical cenote experience found elsewhere. This makes the experience more personal and tranquil, ideal for those seeking serenity and a connection with nature.

The Authentic Yucatec Lunch Experience

After the cenote visits, the tour includes a home-style lunch served in a local setting. The meal features traditional Yucatec specialties, including panuchos and salbutes, which are freshly prepared and representative of the regional cuisine. The buffet-style lunch offers a variety of options and is praised for its authenticity and flavor.

Bottled water and snacks are provided, allowing guests to stay energized throughout the day. The lunch break also offers a chance to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere, away from the crowded tourist areas.

Logistics, Transportation, and Group Size

This private tour features a luxury air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off in central Merida. The operator offers a convenient pickup from your accommodation, making the entire experience smooth and hassle-free. With a minimum of two people required to run the tour, solo travelers should book with an additional person to secure their spot.

The tour departs early at 6:00 am, maximizing time at each location and allowing for a relaxed pace. The entire experience is designed for small groups, usually limited to your booking, which fosters a more personalized atmosphere and direct interaction with the guide.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences and want to explore less crowded sites. It appeals to those interested in Mayan history, natural beauty, and local cuisine. The early start and private setting make it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a tailored, immersive day.

Visitors should be prepared for some walking and swimming in outdoor environments; comfortable footwear and swimwear are recommended. Since the admission fee to Chichen Itza is paid separately, budgeting for that expense is advisable.

The Sum Up: A Genuine Yucatan Adventure

This Private Tour of Chichen Itza and Cenotes offers a well-balanced day of cultural discovery and natural relaxation. The early start optimizes sightseeing time, and the small group size ensures personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of two secluded cenotes and authentic Yucatec lunch provides a unique, genuine experience away from the crowds.

While the separate payment for Chichen Itza’s entrance is a consideration, the overall value shines through in the customized guidance, transport, and intimate visits. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want an off-the-beaten-path adventure with a focus on local culture, history, and nature.

This tour is best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities, early mornings, and paying the site entrance fee separately. It offers a memorable way to explore the Yucatan’s treasures in comfort and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Chichen Itza entrance fee included in the tour?
No, the entrance fee of MX$670 per person is paid separately on-site.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 6 to 10 hours, starting at 6:00 am.

What should I bring for the cenote swim?
Bring swimming attire, a towel, and possibly a change of clothes. The cenotes are freshwater natural pools ideal for swimming.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
A minimum of two people is required to run the tour. Solo travelers should book with an additional person for participation.

What makes this tour different from others?
It emphasizes visits to less commercialized cenotes and includes a home-style Yucatec lunch, with a focus on personalized guiding and off-the-beaten-path locations.