Chichen Itza Plus Tour with Cenote & Valladolid

Discover the Highlights of the Chichen Itza Plus Tour with Cenote & Valladolid

For those seeking a comprehensive day trip from Cancun, the Chichen Itza Plus Tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines iconic archaeological sites, natural swimming in a cenote, and a visit to a charming colonial town. Priced at $119.00 per person and lasting roughly 12 hours, this tour is designed for travelers eager to explore the Yucatan’s cultural and natural treasures comfortably. It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a luxury coach, and expert bilingual guides specializing in Mayan culture.

What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of admission tickets to Chichen Itza, guided exploration of its most famous landmarks, and free time for personal discovery. Plus, the refreshing swim in Cenote Saamal and a regional buffet lunch elevate the experience beyond a simple sightseeing trip. The tour suits those who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local charm, though it involves several hours of travel and walking over uneven surfaces.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price of $119 per person covers transportation, guides, entrance fees, and meals.
• 12-hour day starting at 7:00 am, with hotel pickup in Cancun.
• Visit Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, with a guided tour of its major sites including the Pyramid of Kukulkan, Ball Court, Sacred Cenote, and Observatory.
• Swim at Cenote Saamal, a scenic freshwater sinkhole, with life vests available for rent.
• Explore Valladolid, a vibrant colonial city with historic architecture and a beautiful church.
• Drinks on board include bottled water, sodas, and beer, adding comfort during travel.
• Tour involves walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Life jackets at Cenote Saamal are mandatory and cost $2.00 per person.

Starting the Day with Pickup and Comfortable Transport

The tour begins at 7:00 am with hotel pickup in Cancun, in a shared air-conditioned vehicle. The luxury coach ensures a smooth ride across the roughly 4-hour journey each way. During transit, travelers enjoy bottled water, flavored sodas, and bottled beer, making the long drive more pleasant. This setup is perfect for those who prefer stress-free logistics without the hassle of arranging transport.

Exploring Chichen Itza with a Bilingual Certified Guide

Once at Chichen Itza, the guided tour takes about 2 hours, focusing on the site’s main highlights. The certified guide offers insights into the archaeological significance of the Pyramid of Kukulkan, the Ball Court, the Sacred Cenote, and the Observatory. The admission tickets are included, and visitors have free time afterward to explore at their own pace.

A unique feature of this tour is the Mayans’ healing ceremony, led by a traditional Chaman Maya, adding cultural depth to the visit. The guide’s expertise helps bring the ancient structures to life, making the history accessible and engaging.

Refreshing Swim at Cenote Saamal

After exploring Chichen Itza, the tour moves on to Cenote Saamal, approximately 50 minutes away near Valladolid. This semi-open freshwater sinkhole offers a beautiful setting with rock walls and lush greenery. Visitors can choose to swim and relax, with life jackets required for safety, costing $2.00. The cenote provides a refreshing break from the heat and a chance to enjoy nature’s tranquility.

Discovering Valladolid’s Colonial Charm

The small stop in Valladolid lasts about 30 minutes, offering a glimpse of Mexico’s colonial architecture. Travelers admire its historic church and well-preserved streets, capturing the town’s cultural heritage. It’s a brief visit but perfect for taking photos and soaking up the local atmosphere.

Authentic Regional Buffet Lunch

A highlight of the tour is the buffet lunch, featuring regional dishes. The meal provides a taste of local flavors, offering a satisfying break after the morning’s sightseeing. The lunch is included in the tour price, allowing travelers to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine without extra planning.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. However, it involves walking on uneven surfaces, and it is not recommended for people with limited mobility or serious heart conditions. The long travel time and activity level mean that travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a full day.

The tour is capped at 50 people, ensuring a manageable group size that facilitates an engaging experience with the guide. Tips, photographs, and professional camera fees are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly if they wish to capture memories.

Pricing and Booking Flexibility

The $119.00 price offers good value for a full day of guided sightseeing, meals, and transportation. Advance booking is recommended, with the tour often booked 12 days in advance. Cancellation is flexible, with the possibility of a full refund if canceled 24 hours before.

Final Thoughts on the Chichen Itza Plus Tour

This full-day tour presents a practical way to see Chichen Itza without the hassle of planning individual trips. The combination of archaeological exploration, natural swimming, and cultural stops appeals to those interested in history, nature, and local culture. The inclusion of admission tickets and meals adds convenience and transparency.

While the long travel time might be tiring, the expert guidance and scenic stops make it worthwhile. Travelers who enjoy history and outdoor activities will find the cenote swim and Valladolid visit especially rewarding. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day trip from Cancun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in shared air-conditioned transportation aboard a luxury coach.

How long does the trip to Chichen Itza take?
The travel time to Chichen Itza is approximately 4 hours each way, so expect a long day with plenty of sightseeing.

Can I swim at the cenote?
Yes, swimming is optional at Cenote Saamal, but life jackets are mandatory and cost $2.00 per person.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, admission tickets, guidance, lunch, and swimming at the cenote.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and is not recommended for those with mobility challenges or serious heart conditions.