Chichen Itza tour + Cenotes Xkeken & Samula + Zipline and more!

Experience the Best of Playa del Carmen with the Chichen Itza + Cenotes and Zipline Tour

This $79 tour offers a comprehensive day exploring Chichén Itzá, cenotes Xkeken & Samula, a traditional Mayan village, and an exciting zipline ride. With an approximate 12-hour duration, it packs in cultural insights, natural beauty, and adventure, making it a great choice for those looking to experience the Yucatan’s highlights in one day.

The tour starts early with hotel pickup in Playa del Carmen and includes round-trip transportation, a guided visit to Chichén Itzá, and free time for photos at the archaeological site. It also features a regional buffet, a visit to a traditional Mayan village, and cable ziplining through the jungle, culminating with a refreshing dip in stunning cenotes.

While the group size is limited to 35 travelers, the tour offers cost-effective value with many included activities and free bottled water. It’s ideal for those eager to combine cultural exploration with adventure in a single day, though the long travel time means it’s best suited for energetic, curious visitors comfortable with a full schedule.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip from Playa del Carmen covering Chichén Itzá, cenotes, a Mayan village, and ziplining
• Price of $79 per person, with round-trip transportation and guided tours
• Duration of approximately 12 hours, starting early at 7:00 am
• Visit to UNESCO World Heritage site Chichén Itzá with expert guides
• Experience traditional Mayan culture in the village of Tunben Cuxtal
• Swim in the scenic cenotes Xkeken and Samula, known for their natural beauty and minimal human intervention

Starting the Day: Pickup and Long Journey from Playa del Carmen

The tour begins with hotel pickups in Playa del Carmen around 7:00 am, making it easy to start the day without logistics worries. The transportation service is designed for comfort, with bottled water provided during the trip.

Traveling from Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá involves a roughly 3-hour drive, so flexibility and patience are helpful. The long journey is worth it for the chance to explore the iconic archaeological site and the surrounding attractions in one seamless package.

Exploring the Mystique of Chichén Itzá with Certified Guides

Upon arrival at Chichén Itzá, a guided tour led by certified guides introduces visitors to the mysteries of this World Heritage Site. The guides share insights about the ancient Mayan civilization, helping visitors appreciate the significance of structures like El Castillo and the surrounding ruins.

Guests enjoy around 3 hours and 30 minutes to explore the site, with free time for photos and personal exploration. The guided explanation enriches the experience, making the visit more meaningful and educational.

Visiting Tunben Cuxtal: A Traditional Mayan Village

Next, the tour takes participants to Tunben Cuxtal, located just 30 minutes from Chichén Itzá. This Mayan village provides a glimpse into traditional Mayan life, with a brief cultural presentation. Visitors learn about local customs and daily routines of the indigenous community.

The stop lasts about 2 hours and includes a regional buffet meal, offering varied dishes suitable for different dietary needs, including vegetarian options. This authentic meal adds a flavorful touch to the day, with local ingredients and recipes.

Ziplining Adventure: Long Jungle Zip Line Experience

One of the tour’s highlights is the 200-meter-long zipline across the jungle canopy. The zipline launch is a thrilling activity that delivers a rush of excitement while offering bird’s-eye views of the lush surroundings.

Participants receive lifejackets and guidance from certified staff to ensure safety. The zipline experience lasts just long enough to satisfy adventure cravings without feeling rushed, providing a perfect balance between thrill and comfort.

Cooling Off in the Cenotes Xkeken and Samula

The day concludes with a visit to two stunning cenotes—Xkeken and Samula—renowned for their natural, untouched beauty. These cenotes are noted for minimal human intervention, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic natural scenery.

Spending about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, guests can swim, relax, and take photographs in these crystal-clear waters. The cenotes’ cool temperatures provide a refreshing break after a full day of exploring, and the setting makes for memorable photos.

Returning to Playa del Carmen and Final Drop-offs

After a full day of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation, the tour returns to Playa del Carmen around 2 hours later. The drop-off service ensures a convenient end to the day, bringing travelers back to their hotels or designated meeting points with plenty of time to unwind or continue exploring.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes round-trip transportation, bottled water, guided tours at Chichén Itzá, free time at the archaeological site, a buffet meal, certified guides at the cenotes, and lifejackets for the water activities.

However, drinks at the restaurant are not included, and there are mandatory taxes of 765 MXN per person for access to the archaeological zone and cenotes. These additional costs are worth noting beforehand to avoid surprises.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The tour operates with a confirmation upon booking and is suitable for most travelers. The lunch buffet accommodates vegetarian dietary needs. The maximum group size is 35 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

The Experience Provider: J Capital Travel

This tour is offered by J Capital Travel, a reputable provider known for organized day trips in the Playa del Carmen area. Their contact phone number is +529983761341, and email contact is [email protected].

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Day of Culture and Adventure

This tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Yucatan’s highlights, combining cultural insights, natural beauty, and active fun all in one package. The guides’ expertise enhances the experience, and the inclusion of free time allows for personal exploration.

While the long travel time might be a consideration, the value for the price and the variety of activities make this a compelling choice for travelers eager to see Chichén Itzá, enjoy cenotes, and add adventure with ziplining. It suits those who enjoy a full schedule and are prepared for a day-long excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Playa del Carmen?
The total duration is approximately 12 hours, with about 3 hours of travel each way.

Are vegetarian options available during the buffet?
Yes, the buffet meal includes options for vegetarian dietary needs.

What is the cost of access to the archaeological zone and cenotes?
There is a mandatory tax of 765 MXN per traveler for entry to the archaeological site and cenotes, payable on-site.

Is the tour suitable for children or older adults?
Given the full-day schedule and physical activities like ziplining, it is best suited for most able-bodied travelers, but those with specific health concerns should review the activity details.

What should I bring for the cenote swim?
Bring swimsuits, towels, and waterproof cameras if desired. The cenotes are natural and do not require additional gear.

Can I cancel this tour and get a refund?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.