PreHispanic City of Chichen Itza! Round Transportation from Tulum

Discover the PreHispanic City of Chichen Itza with Round-Trip Transportation from Tulum

This guided tour from Tulum offers a full-day adventure for those eager to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Priced at $87 per person, the tour lasts roughly 12 hours and includes round-trip transfers, lunch, and visits to a cenote and Valladolid.

While the tour promises a comprehensive cultural experience, a recent review expresses some dissatisfaction, citing disorganization and delays. Despite this, the stops at Chichen Itza and Cenote Saamal remain significant highlights. This tour suits travelers who enjoy guided excursions, historical landmarks, and scenic swimming spots. However, those seeking a perfectly smooth ride should be prepared for potential logistical hiccups.

Key Points

• Price of $87 per person includes transportation, lunch, and access to archaeological sites and cenote.
• The tour departs from Tulum at 8:50 am and lasts approximately 12 hours.
• Visit Chichen Itza, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, with a bilingual guide.
• Enjoy a swim in Cenote Saamal, a crystal-clear swimming hole popular among visitors.
• Have free time in Valladolid for about 25 minutes to explore the streets, visit the church, or shop for handicrafts.
• Life vests are mandatory, and travelers should bring swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes.
• An optional preservation tax of $17 USD applies, not included in the price.
• The tour is operated by Open Vacations, with a max group size of 50 travelers.

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Tulum

The tour begins at the Super Aki Market in Tulum, located on Carretera Federal Tulum Ruinas. Travelers should arrive by 8:50 am, as the meeting point is not at individual hotels or Airbnbs. The transportation is air-conditioned, and the round-trip service is included in the cost.

While the pickup time was reported as delayed by about 15 minutes in the review, the official info states a 40-minute delay; travelers should be aware of potential timing issues. The group size is limited to 50, making for a manageable, though possibly crowded, experience.

Visiting Chichen Itza: The Main Attraction

The first stop is Chichen Itza, where the guided tour covers key structures such as the Temple of Kukulcan, the Temple of the Warriors, and the sacred cenote. Visitors learn about the history and significance of these monuments from the bilingual guide.

This site is two hours long, offering ample time to appreciate the iconic pyramid, the ball court, and other structures. The admission is free, but the site can be crowded, especially during peak hours.

The guide’s explanations aim to enrich your understanding, but the overall experience may be affected by the disorganization noted in reviews, including delays and a lack of apologies.

Cooling Off in Cenote Saamal

After exploring the ruins, the tour moves to Cenote Saamal for about an hour of swimming. Known for its crystal-clear waters, this cenote is a favorite among visitors seeking refreshment.

Access to the cenote is included in the tour, and life vests are mandatory for swimming. Travelers should bring swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes. The cenote offers a relaxed environment to cool down and recover energy before heading to Valladolid.

Exploring Valladolid at Your Own Pace

The tour includes 25 minutes of free time in Valladolid, a vibrant town with colonial architecture and charming streets. Visitors can walk to the church of San Servacio, take photos in the main park, or browse local handicraft stalls.

While this short visit might feel brief, it provides a glimpse of the town’s atmosphere and an opportunity to stretch legs before the journey back to Tulum.

Food, Beverages, and Additional Expenses

A regional buffet lunch is included, giving travelers a taste of local flavors. However, beverages in the restaurant are not included, and additional drinks should be paid for separately.

There is also a preservation tax of $17 USD per person, which is not included in the tour price and must be paid on-site. Travelers should prepare for this extra cost.

Physical Requirements and Packing Tips

Participants should bring towels, swimsuits, and a change of clothes for the cenote swim. The life vests are mandatory for safety during swimming, so packing one is advisable if preferred.

The tour involves walking and standing at the archaeological site and around Valladolid, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour is accessible to most travelers, but those with mobility issues may find some sections challenging.

The Realities of the Tour Experience

While the tour offers a comprehensive itinerary at a reasonable price, recent feedback highlights disorganization and delays. The pickup was slightly late, and a stop in Valladolid was seen as less meaningful by some, with the quick visit limiting exploration.

The guide’s explanations are intended to provide cultural and historical context, but the overall experience may be affected by crowd levels and the schedule’s tight nature.

Despite its weak points, the tour remains a practical way to visit Chichen Itza, cenote, and Valladolid in a single day, especially for those who prioritize convenience and guided commentary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting to see Chichen Itza with round-trip transportation from Tulum, a guided experience, and included lunch. It suits those comfortable with potential minor delays and short sightseeing windows.

However, visitors seeking a more relaxed pace or more in-depth exploration might find the short stop in Valladolid and organized logistics less satisfying. The large group size and some logistical hiccups** may not appeal to everyone.

The Sum Up: A Practical but Flawed Day Trip

The PreHispanic City of Chichen Itza tour from Tulum offers a full-day journey into the heart of the Yucatán’s archaeological and natural wonders. Its main attractions—Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid—are compelling, especially for first-time visitors.

The value comes from included transportation, lunch, and entry fees, making it an efficient way to see key sights. However, disorganization and limited free time in Valladolid are notable drawbacks. This tour works best for travelers who don’t mind some logistical imperfections and want a guided overview of the region’s highlights.

For those who prioritize reliable scheduling and more time at each stop, exploring alternative options or private tours might be better. This tour offers a solid introduction to the cultural landscape of Yucatán with practical logistics at a reasonable price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts at the Super Aki Market in Tulum, and there is no hotel pickup included.

What should I bring for the cenote swim?
Travelers should bring swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes. Life vests are provided but must be worn during swimming.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a preservation tax of $17 USD per person applies, which is not included in the price and must be paid on-site.

Is this tour suitable for all ages and mobility levels?
The tour is generally accessible, but those with mobility issues may find some parts challenging due to walking and standing at the archaeological site and town.

How long is the free time in Valladolid?
The free time lasts approximately 25 minutes, which may feel brief but allows for quick exploration and photos.

Can I expect a well-organized experience?
The official itinerary is straightforward, but recent feedback indicates some disorganization and delays. Travelers should be prepared for possible scheduling hiccups.