chichen itza day trip from valladolid

How to Get From Valladolid to Chichen Itza: Prices and Info

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Wondering how to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza? You’ve come to the right place! In this post, I’ll talk about all the different transportation options from Valladolid to Chichen Itza, as well as tips for what to see while you’re there and make the most of your time.

If you are looking for information on how to do a day trip or overnight to Chichen Itza from a different city, I’ve got you covered as well!

Check out my posts on how to get to this UNESCO World Heritage Site from Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Mérida:

► How to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza: Prices and Info ► How to get from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza: Prices and Info ► How to get from Tulum to Chichen Itza: Prices and Info ► How to get from Merida to Chichen Itza: Prices and Info

What is Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza was a sacred Mayan city in the 5th century A.D.

The ruins offer a fascinating insight into an incredibly advanced, ruthless, and fascinating society.

The peoples of Chichen Itza were astronomers, mathematicians, engineers, and devout worshippers of a pantheon of gods.

They discovered the concept of zero, used an accurate solar calendar, and sacrificed to the demons of the underworld.

The pyramids and temples are intricately carved with symbols that tell more of the story behind the stones. Visiting Chichén Itzá will be an adventure into another era.

You’ll learn about jaguars, rain gods, portals to the underworld, and the feathered serpent god Kukulcan. 

No wonder it was voted one of the new seven wonders of the world and receives over two million visitors each year.

➢ Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? Yes, you do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens, I am covered. I have been using   Safety Wing , and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level. Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER . Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase. If you are undecided yet, you can read my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico for more clarity.

How to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

There are several ways to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza. I am sharing them all in the next sections so that you can choose the one that suits you best!

1. Valladolid to Chichen Itza by tour

One of the great things about going to Chichén Itzá from Valladolid is that many of the tours get an early start.

This means you’ll beat the tours coming from the Riviera Maya and have longer to enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Taking a tour is one of the best ways to see Chichen if you don’t have your own transportation.

Be sure to check the itinerary ahead of time, and see whether the entry fees are included, cancellation policies, etc. I wouldn’t want you to have any unpleasant surprises!

Many tours include hotel pickup, an expert guide, a guided tour of the ancient city, and some extra side trips (such as to a nearby mayan cenote)

Top-Rated Tours to Chichen Itza from Valladolid

Check out these great tours of Chichen Itza leaving from Valladolid

► Chichen Itzá, Yokdzonot Cenote & Izamal

This is a wonderful tour of Chichen Itza that also includes a trip to Yokdzonot Cenote and the magical town of Izamal.

The group tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Valladolid (or the main plaza) and transportation to the Mayan ruins.

You’ll spend about one and a half hours touring the city with a multilingual guide. After a fascinating tour, you’ll have about an hour of free time to enjoy the ruins at your own pace. 

Your next stop is to Yokdzonot Cenote for a refreshing swim. You’ll also eat lunch prepared by local Mayan women. Last of all, you’ll visit Izamal.

This enchanting city is painted all yellow. While you’re there, you’ll see more ancient Mayan ruins, and check out the handicraft scene.

This tour includes all entrance fees, lunch, bottled water, certified multilingual guide at Chichen Itza, taxes, and transportation in a vehicle with air conditioning. It’s one of the best deals I’ve found.

► Private Chichen Itzá Tour, Cenote, and Gastronomic Experience

If you’d rather not be part of a group tour, you can opt for a private tour instead. This private Chichen Itza tour leaves from Valladolid.

Just like the option above, it includes a 90-minute guided tour of the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza.

You’ll get about 40-minutes of free time, before traveling on to a cenote of your choice.

Next, you’ll enjoy an incredible buffet lunch of all the best foods from the Yucatán Peninsula, including cochinita pibil, tamales, and creamy flan.

You’ll eat lunch at a Melipona bee sanctuary. These local bees have no stinger, so don’t worry, they can’t harm you. They produce a unique light and citrusy honey. Delicious!

This tour includes lunch, bottled water, transportation, taxes and fees, and the entrance ticket to Chichén Itzá and the Cenote.

► Private Chichen Itza Tour, Cenote, Gastronomic Experience & Ek Balam

This Valladolid tour to Chichen has a very similar itinerary to the previous tour, with one important addition. You’ll get to visit the fascinating ruins of Ek Balam in addition to Chichén Itzá .

This private tour DOES NOT include the entrance fees to Ek Balam and Chichen Itza. It DOES include lunch and entrance to the cenote.

Make sure you figure on that extra cost.

Bottled water, transportation, and taxes are also included in the price of the tour.

Valladolid to Chichen Itza by bus

One of the great things about visiting Chichen Itza from Valladolid is the convenience! To get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid, you may go on a local bus, or an ADO bus.

🚌 Going from Valladolid to Chichen Itza by Local Bus 🚌

There are many local buses, known as “colectivos” that leave from Valladolid to Chichen Itza all day long. This seems to be the best way to get to Chichen Itza early in the morning, and is probably the cheapest option as well.

Some of the earliest colectivo buses leave at 7 a.m. I recommend going on the earliest ones so that you can get to Chichén Itzá and buy tickets well before it opens.

They leave right from the ADO bus station as well, on the road by the main entrance. Just ask drivers which one is going to Chichen-itza.

🚐 Going from Valladolid to Chichen Itza by ADO bus 🚐

Buy Chichen Itza Entrance Ticket in Advance

Avoid the lines and the hassle of carrying extra cash!

If you don’t feel comfortable taking a colectivo, you can also take the respected ADO buses .

These coach buses are a very comfortable and secure option for traveling all over the Yucatán peninsula.

ADO bus tickets from Valladolid to Chichen Itza cost $142 MXN.

The ADO buses only leave Valladolid around 11:30 am, though, which means you won’t get to Chichén Itzá until 12:15 pm.

This is the worst time of day for the heat. It also will probably be more crowded at this late hour.

But if you don’t mind the heat and flocks of people, you’ll still have four hours or so to enjoy a fascinating tour of the Mayan site. (you can hire a tour guide at the entrance for around 40 USD)

Another option is to spend a night or two near Chichen Itza and move around by local taxis.

The first day, you could go swimming in Ik Kil Cenote and watch the night show at Chichen Itza (buy your tickets as soon as you arrive).

Then the next day you could get into the ruins early for a half-day or full-day visit.

Then you can either head back to Valladolid, or check out some of the other cenotes in the area and eat a delicious meal of Yucatan cuisine.

Getting back to Valladolid by Bus

Colectivos to Valladolid leave Chichen Itza approximately every hour. Look for one that says “Cancún” in the window, as they stop in Valladolid on the way.

Alternatively, you can take an ADO bus back to Valladolid

ADO Bus Schedules from Chichen to Valladolid:

Valladolid to Chichen Itza by car rental

It isn’t possible to rent a car in Valladolid, however if you are first coming from the Riviera Maya, Mérida, or another large city, you can choose to rent a car for multiple days.

Read also: Renting a Car in Tulum

That will give you the freedom to explore Valladolid at your leisure, spend as long as you want at Chichen Itza, and not feel rushed or constrained by a tour.

Renting a car is my favorite way to get to Chichen Itza and every where in the Yucatan Peninsula. It gives me the freedom to beat the crowds, escape from the heat, and explore hidden gems. 

Parking is 80 MXN at Chichen Itza, but you can park right in front of the entrance if you get there early.

And I also cover information on renting a car and driving in Mexico in other posts. Check them out!

Discover Cars Mexico Review

Discover Cars is one of the most popular car rental for many reasons, among which:

✔︎ straight forward information ✔︎ full coverage add-on ✔︎ listing of different companies with reviews

Car Rental to Chichen Itza Costs

• A car rental from the Riviera Maya or Cancun costs 60 to 80 USD per day
• Gas costs between 20 to 40 USD per tank 
• Toll fees budget for about 686 MXN (35 USD) return trip – although you could always choose to return to Tulum on local roads. The slower pace can be fun, and you might encounter hidden gems you wouldn’t otherwise notice.

How to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza: FAQ

How much does the chichen itza archaeological site cost.

Entrance tickets to Chichen Itza cost:

• Adults : $533 MXN per person
• Children (3-12) : $80 MXN per person
• Mexican Citizens : $237 MXN per person
• Locals (Yucatan ID) : $80 MXN per person

Hire a tour guide for about 40 USD (totally worth it if you aren’t going with a tour!!!)

Kukulcan Night Experience: $600 MXN (This is a light and sound show projected onto the Pyramid of Kukulcan. You can buy tickets starting at 3 pm every day)

When is the best time to visit Chichen Itza?

The weather is nicest from November to April, in Chichen Itza, though expect it to be hot and muggy year-round.

Can you visit Chichen Itza from Valladolid?

Yes! The Spanish colonial city of Valladolid is a great jumping-off point to visit the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, especially since it’s only 45-minutes away.

It’s worth spending a couple of nights in this lovely city before or after you visit Chichen. But you probably know that already!

There are so many things to do in Valladolid , including incredible hidden cenotes and other Mayan ruins.

Can you climb the pyramids at Chichen Itza?

No! You can’t climb the pyramids at Chichen Itza. This tourist site can get up to 8,000 visitors a day, which amounts to a lot of damage, wear, and tear on the temples.

Can you swim in the cenote at Chichen Itza?

Nope! The Sacred Cenote (Cenote Sagrado) at Chichen Itza is not good for swimming. They are dark algae green color, are full of plant matter, and probably still have some human remains floating in the depths.

Which cenotes should I visit along the way?

There are many of these water-filled sinkholes around Chichén Itzá and Valladolid City.

After an early morning exploring the main tourist site, enjoy nearby Ik Kil, Yokdzonot or Xcajum. If you want a buffet lunch after your swim, Xcajum is the best place to go.

And of course, you should also enjoy the many wonderful cenotes right in Valladolid! Don’t miss Zaci, San Lorenzo Oxman, or Suytun cenotes.

Top buildings to see in Chichen Itza

Whether you are only planning to make a quick stop at Chichen Itza, or plan to spend a full day exploring this ancient city, don’t miss these important monuments.

Kukulcan pyramid

No trip to Chichen Itza would be complete without seeing the Pyramid of Kukulcan, also known as El Castillo. This four-sided temple is a masterpiece of Mayan architecture.

It is one of the tallest structures in the Mayan world. Each side has 91 steps leading to a rectangular temple at the top.

There are 364 steps in total, one for each day of the year. On either side of the stairs are long balustrades carved to resemble the feathered serpent Kukulcan.

During the spring and fall equinox, light falls in a rugged band, highlighting the balustrade and illuminating the body of the snake as it slithers toward the underworld.

Your expert guide can tell you more interesting facts when you’re there in person!

The Observatory

The Observatory also called “El Caracol” or “The Snail” is another of Chichen Itza’s most famous landmarks.

Unlike most buildings constructed by the Maya people, the Observatory is circular. Archaeologists believe that Mayan astronomers used this building to observe the heavens.

They were highly advanced in this science and could predict solar and lunar eclipses and the movement of various planets.

The Temple of the Warriors

This temple is also very impressive. It could even be called the temple of the jaguars because it is covered in carvings of jaguars devouring human hearts.

There are also many warriors carved into the columns, and a sculpted man wearing a helmet. Don’t miss it!

The Great Ball Court

Another fascinating thing to see is the Ball Court. This is the court where the ancient Maya played a ritualistic game that may have represented the battle between day and night.

Although the rules of the game are cloaked in mystery, we do know that the game involved bouncing a pure rubber ball off the hips and thighs.

This ballgame court is the largest in Mesoamerica!

Chichen Itza receives the most visitors in December and January. If you’d prefer to avoid crowds, try to visit in the shoulder seasons of November, February, or March.

What to take when visiting Chichen Itza

The most important thing to prepare for is the heat and sun exposure! Although you can walk on flip-flops I would recommend gym shoes or hiking ones.

Here’s my list of what you should take to the Mayan ruins.

✅ Light wicking clothing

✅ Comfortable walking shoes

✅ Sunscreen

✅ Hat , sunglasses , or even an umbrella

✅ Refillable water bottle

✅ Bathing Suit

✅ Camera /Phone (but no tripods)

✅ Insect repellant (remember to shower it off when you go visit a cenote, before getting in the water)

✅ Mexican Pesos to pay all entrance fees

Note: Professional photographers need special permits to take pictures/use their high-tech equipment in Chichen Itza.

Valladolid to Chichen Itza: final thoughts

Now that you know all the options for how to get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid! Don’t forget to spend some time in this beautiful city before or after spending time at one of the new wonders of the world!

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master w hich is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.

Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico .

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card . It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.

Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.

Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico . If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:

• Is Cancun Safe?
• Is Tulum Safe?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico

🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?

If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards. It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa

💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸

A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:

👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. 👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts 👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals! 👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia . 👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals

Happy travels!!

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

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How to Visit Chichen Itza from Valladolid, Mexico: A Full Guide

• 7 June 2022 5 April 2023

Are you planning to take a day trip to Chichén Itzá from Valladolid, Mexico? Looking for all of the super fun logistical details? Read on!

This day trip guide will go over everything you need to know about visiting Chichén Itzá. It’ll include all the best things to do, places to stay, and tips and tricks to make your visit a success.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. When you purchase through links on my site, I may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you!).

Guided tour

Cenote ik kil, how long do you need at chichén itzá.

What is Chichén Itzá?

Chichén Itzá is a ruined, pre-Hispanic city that was built and inhabited by the Mayan people. Sometime between the 7th and 8th centuries, the city became an important economic hub in the region. Towering pyramids and intricate buildings were built to flaunt the power of the city’s elites.

By the 13th century, though, Chichén Itzá had started to fall into decline. Historians still don’t know exactly why the once-powerful Mayan civilization collapsed.

Over the years, Spanish invaders tried to establish a base at Chichén Itzá, but were stopped by fierce opposition from the Maya people. The site became overgrown by the surrounding jungle, only adding to its mystery and intrigue. In the 19th and 20th centuries, archeological excavation uncovered much of the ancient city and several buildings were restored to their former glory.

The Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and have also been declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World .

Where is Chichén Itzá?

Chichén Itzá (officially known as Zona Arqueológica de Chichén Itzá ) is located in the Mexican state of Yucatán. The nearest town, Pisté, is 2.5 km (1.5 mi) away.

The archeological site is just off of the main highway that runs from Mérida (115 km/71 mi away) to Cancún (200 km/124 mi away).

Where should you stay to visit Chichén Itzá?

Many people that visit Chichén Itzá will stay on the Riviera Maya, a stretch of coastline on the northeastern Yucatán Peninsula. This includes popular tourist destinations like Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Depending on which city you depart from, it takes between 2 and 2.5 hours to get to Chichén Itzá by car or bus.

If you want to visit Chichén Itzá as a day trip, the best option would be to stay in the nearby colonial city of Valladolid . Besides being a wonderful place to visit on its own, Valladolid is only 45 minutes away from Chichén Itzá and can easily be reached by public transportation. There is a lot to do nearby and you can easily spend a few days there.

Another option is to stay in Pisté, the closest town to the ruins (it’s only a 10-minute drive). Hotels here can be a bit more expensive, but they could be worth it if you’re looking to get an early start right when the site opens.

How to get to Chichén Itzá from Valladolid

Taking a colectivo (shared minivan) is a great way to get to Chichén Itzá from Valladolid. Each bus fits around 14 people and often leave completely full. They may not be the most comfortable option, but they are the cheapest — a one-way ticket costs 40 pesos ($2 USD).

You can find the colectivo pickup spot in Valladolid as “ Transporte Colectivo (Chichen Itza Y Piste) ” on Google Maps. The first bus leaves at 7 am, with buses coming about every 30 minutes after that.

On the way back to Valladolid, you can hail a bus at the same spot where it dropped you off. Keep in mind that some drivers don’t work on Sundays, so colectivo service could be less frequent.

ADO is a bus company that operates throughout the Yucatan Peninsula and Quintana Roo regions. Unlike the colectivos, ADO buses are large and spacious (think coach buses).

These buses are comfortable, quick, and relatively inexpensive. The biggest drawback is that the schedule isn’t super convenient for people looking to take a day trip. There aren’t a ton of options which could make your trip a bit limiting.

One-way tickets cost between 90 and 146 pesos ($4.60-7.47 USD) and can be bought on the ADO website in advance.

Renting a car is the fastest and most convenient option. You’re fully in control of your departure times and can make any stops you want along the way!

There are no car rental shops in Valladolid, so you’ll need to get one before you arrive in either Merida, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum.

Discover Cars is one of my favorite car rental booking sites. They compare all of the major dealerships so you get the best deal every time!

Driving to Chichén Itzá from Valladolid takes about 45 minutes. The road is safe, well-paved, and easy to navigate. Once you get there, you’ll need to pay about 30 pesos ($1.50 USD) for parking. Make sure to bring some spare cash because they don’t accept credit cards.

Taxis are one of the quickest and most direct ways of getting to Chichén Itzá from Valladolid. A one-way trip takes about 40 minutes and costs between 500-600 pesos (about $25-30 USD).

You can hail a taxi from the bus station or Valladolid’s main square. Make sure to negotiate the rate before getting in as taxis in Mexico don’t use meters.

On the way back to Valladolid, it’s easy to find a ride from the taxi stand opposite the entrance.

Booking a guided tour is a great option if you don’t want to plan all of the travel logistics yourself.

In addition to visiting Chichén Itzá, many of these tours will include stops at cenotes or additional food/drinks (like this tequila tasting one !).

Best things to see at Chichén Itzá

Temple of kukulcán (el castillo).

This pyramid is the most iconic structure at Chichén Itzá. Dedicated to Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent god, the Temple of Kukulcán is filled with symbolism and detailed references. (For example, on the Spring and Autumn Equinoxes, the shadows cast by the corners of the pyramid look like a snake to represent Quetzalcoatl!)

El Castillo (“the castle” in Spanish) also contains astronomical references to the Mayan calendar. The amount of steps, terraces, and panels all correspond to important numbers of days, months, and years. The attention to detail and precision used to build the pyramid are part of what makes it so special today.

Temple of the Warriors

The Temple of the Warriors is a stepped pyramid with a collection of about 200 stone columns at the front (which are what gives it the nickname “Temple of the Thousand Columns”). It’s one of the most impressive buildings at the archaeological site of Chichén Itzá and might have been a place for the Maya people to hold large gatherings and special events.

Like the step pyramid of Kukulcan, the Temple of the Warriors holds a lot of astronomical and religious symbolism. At the top, there is a Chacmool statue that is believed to be the place where still-beating, sacrificial hearts were offered up to the gods. You’ll also see various depictions of snakes, eagles, and jaguars devouring human hearts.

The Church (La Iglesia)

This detailed one-room building is one of the oldest buildings on site. The stone mosaics around the exterior of the Church depict animals and figures important in Mayan culture.

Above the middle of the door, you’ll find Chaac, the god of rain. Around the four sides, there are carvings of an armadillo, a turtle, a snail, and a crab. These are the four bacabes who correspond to the four cardinal directions and hold up the sky in Mayan mythology.

Grand Ball Court (Gran Juego de Pelota)

The Grand Ball Court (or Great Ball Court) is where thousands of people would gather to watch the traditional ball game. The aim of the game was to hit a rubber ball through the hoops on the court walls. Competition was fierce because the losers would face extreme consequences (up to and including death)!

More than being just a ball game, the entire process was considered a ceremonial ritual. From what we know, it probably represented the mythical combat between night and day.

A cool acoustic phenomenon happens at the ballgame court. If you stand on one end, you can hear someone talking all the way on the other end. This is because their voice reverberates along the North Temple wall!

Temple of the Jaguars (Templo de los Jaguares)

Attached to the Grand Ball Court is the Temple of the Jaguars. Its towering columns are topped with a stone image of a serpent head (clearly a common theme at Chichén Itzá!). The main frieze that gives the temple its name depicts two jaguars around a round shield.

The Temple of the Jaguars and the nearby Temple of the Bearded Man most likely served as vantage spots for important members of society to watch the ball game.

Temple of the Skulls (Tzompantli)

The Tzompantli is a large, rectangular structure with a platform on top. Around the outside walls, you’ll see hundreds of human skulls carved into the stone. There are also scenes of human sacrifice and skeletonized warriors.

The Temple of the Skulls is the clearest testimony to the practice of human sacrifice within Maya civilization.

Sacred Cenote (Cenote Sagrado)

The Sacred Cenote is a naturally formed open well within the Chichén Itzá archeological site. At first, the Maya people made ceremonial offerings into the cenote with precious objects like jewelry. Later on, they began making human sacrifices into the sinkhole. The victims were often children, maidens, or warriors.

Cenote Ik Kil is one of the best places to go for a refreshing swim in the area! Although it’s not actually a part of the Chichén Itzá site, it’s close enough that many people will also visit on the same day. If you’re taking a guided Chichen Itza tour, you’re likely to stop at the cenote as well.

To get to Cenote Ik Kil from Chichén Itzá, you can either walk or drive down the 2.8 km (1.7 mi) road. Entrance fees cost 80 pesos (about $4 USD).

Where to stay in Valladolid

Budget (under $15 USD/night)

• Casa Xtakay
• New Friends Hostel
• Hostal Las Cruces

Mid-range (between $15-40 USD/night)

• Casa Fernery
• Hotel Kinich Ahau
• Casa Flamingo

Bougie (over $40 USD/night)

• Hotel Posada San Juan
• Le Muuch Boutique Hotel
• Mayan Majesty Boutique Hotel

Chichén Itzá FAQ

Do i need a tour guide at chichén itzá.

No, you don’t need to hire a private tour guide to explore Chichén Itzá.

Having a guide is pretty handy, though, because they’re able to explain the cultural and historical significance of the structures you’re looking at. It can be really interesting and insightful to hear the site’s history in the moment. You can hire a guide at the entrance.

Is Chichén Itzá worth it?

Absolutely! They don’t call it one of the new wonders of the world for nothing.

While the Temple of Kukulcán is amazing, there are so many more cool things to see at Chichén Itzá as well. To have the best experience, make sure you arrive early (or later in the day) and give yourself enough time to explore the grounds properly — you won’t be disappointed.

I would allocate between 2 and 4 hours at Chichén Itzá, depending on how quickly you make your way around the site. This gives you enough time to wander around at your own pace and appreciate the ruins that you’re looking at.

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá from Valladolid

• Oftentimes when booking a car online in Mexico, the mandatory taxes and insurance are not included in the price. You might need to pay a bit extra when you pick the car up.
• For the best chance of getting pictures without other people in them, get to Chichén Itzá right when it opens. You’ll likely beat most of the crowds, which tend to trickle in on tour buses a few hours later.
• You can buy skip-the-line entrance tickets online to save time when you get there!
• Brace yourself for all of the vendors that try to sell trinkets and souvenirs — there’s hundreds of them! And every so often, you’ll hear a weird noise that sounds like a dying cat. Don’t be alarmed, it’s just a vendor blowing through a jaguar whistle .
• It can be very hot because certain areas of the site, like El Castillo and the Grand Ball Court, don’t have any shade. Make sure to bring some sunscreen , a hat , and a water bottle !

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Thanks for reading! Hopefully this post has helped you organize your trip from Valladolid to Chichén Itzá.

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Full Day Tour Chichen Itza plus Cenotes From Valladolid

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• access ticket to chichen itza
• access fee to cenote chichikam
• access fee to cenote uayma ha
• Entry/Admission - Cenote X'Keken
• Entry/Admission - Chichen Itza
• vest in cenote chichikam 50 mexican pesos
• vest in cenote uayma has 50 mexican pesos
• C. 41 26, Centro, 97780 Valladolid, Yuc., Mexico church of san servacio, central square valladolid
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 19 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Chichen Itza

Similar experiences

• You'll start at C. 41 26 Or, you can also get picked up See departure details
• 1 Cenote X'Keken Stop: 40 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Mi Lindo Yucatan Stop: 75 minutes See details
• 3 Chichen Itza Stop: 2 hours - Admission included See details
• 4 Xcajum Stop: 50 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Jbro1186 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience. So glad I chose this tour! This tour was great! I took a day trip to Chichen Itzá, Valladolid, the Mayan town of Ebtún, and the X-cajum cenote from Puerto Adventuras. I started the day really early where we got in a small shuttle which picked up some people and brought us to Playa del Carmen where we were transferred on a coach bus which brought us to our first stop in Valladolid to see the lovely church. They gave us breakfast on the bus which consisted of a sandwich, a juice box, and some cookies. Be prepared for the time change since the province of Yucatán is an hour behind Quintana Roo. We didn’t get to Valladolid until 3 and a half hours after we left. We stayed there for 20 minutes, saw the church and then drove another 15 minutes to the small Mayan village of Ebtún where we got to meet a Mayan shaman we explained to us his culture and also spoke in his language which was a very cool experience. We also ate lunch there at a nice Mayan buffet with good traditional food. Next we drove another half hour to Chichen Itzá which was a nightmare to get into. We had to wait on a long line which was very chaotic. We had two hours at Chichen Itzá. 1 hour of a guided tour which the tour guide did a great job on, and 1 hour of free time to explore. I wish I could’ve had more free time, but the experience was great regardless. After another half hour, we made it to the Cenote X-cajum which was a great experience. Once you get there, you need to get life jackets and towels. The you walk down a lot of stairs to get the cenote. The water is very cold but you get used to it. There is a zip line into the water and a diving board. You also have the option of jumping from a platform way higher up. It was a great experience. In total, the guides were great, but I didn’t end up getting to the hotel until 9:45. I 100% recommend this tour. Read more Written 8 March 2024
• carlai988 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles the best tour ever 😎 the tour guide talk about the history of chichen itza, wonderfull day. fully recommended take this tour its amazing 😍 Read more Written 6 March 2024
• Pioneer553342 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Experience Overall Great experience all the activities were well thought and enough time given Staff is very helpful and knowledgeable Read more Written 16 February 2024
• G5259IODevlin 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles DO NOT USE Mayab Travel Tours or book with anyone who sells you on it Horrendous experience. We were promised a big bus with space but instead were shoehorned into an uncomfortable shuttle with rude inconsiderate tour guides who overpriced our tour. Barely spoke english for us. Plus, this shuttle had to detour considerably for hours to accommodate people they picked up in playa del carmen. When I asked for some compensation for the misdelivered goods (i.e. a nice big tour bus that went to the promised destination and back to cancun) they said they had to "ask their boss". I expressed how upsetting all this was and they just laughed at us and shocker, no compensation. Cancun is one big scam Read more Written 14 February 2024
• Happiness579410 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Beware if English speaker I booked an English speaking tour and ended up on a tour bus of 14 people with 13 of them being Spanish speakers = Spanish speaking tour. The tour guide would say some things in English, but there would be paragraphs in Spanish and the odd English word or sentence thrown in. I had no idea what was going on, apart from the <5mins he explained some of the Tulum information at the site, I got nothing else. I would have never picked this tour if I had known it wasn't an English speaking tour. Its quite obvious having 1 person speaking a different language that they won't get the same information/experience as everyone else! I emailed the tour company with my disappointment of the tour, they have not responded! I've waited 2weeks before writing this review, to give time for a response If you're an English speaker, don't waste your money, do it DIY it will be cheaper and you'll get the same experience. Apart from entry fees and transport fees, I would expect a refund as I didn't get anything else I paid for... i would recommend Sat Mexico tours, I got what I paid for with this company, learned more about Mayan culture in 10mins on the bus than I did for the whole of this tour. Read more Written 15 January 2024
• anithaly 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Worth to visit but not with this company. We happened to have a guide whose story telling abilities were horrible, and it went like that: he said half a sentence in English and then the whole content in Spanish (yep, the tour was not for these that learned English at school), I was the only one in our group who could understand bits in Spanish). He could talk for 2 hours non stop not giving any useful information: no facts, nothing about the places where we go, no historical context, nothing about ancient historical sites. He was extraordinary in his act. I really admire him as a human being because he managed to make our whole group angry for a very good morning, and the trip starts early in the morning. Good exercise for us though, to learn how to not loath people for just their being once you paid them money 😅 He is a terrible guide, though. Also, not enough time for the main attractions, but we stopped in a few places on the go “to buy souvenirs from the Mayan people”, which how this trip should be named, where we had plenty of time to do nothing. Read more Written 8 January 2024
• Seaside295696 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Disappointing, long day. Read google reviews before you book! This tour was 15 hours long and frustrating. We got up at 5:30 a.m. to get picked up at 6:40 as required, however the bus was an hour late. There were too many stops for this excursion which left insufficient time to explore with any meaning or depth. In addition, the stops at the Mayan village and Valladolid were focused on encouraging purchases from vendors. The biggest disappointment was Chichen Itza. Two hours were provided but no guide was readily available and we were warned if we waited for a guide, we may not have time to see the entire site. We walked around ourselves and tried to listen to other tour groups’ interpreters at some of the exhibits but felt we missed out. As well, 15? years ago or so, Mexico allowed vendors onto the Chichen site; these folks hawk goods throughout the site and are loud and pushy. It definitely detracts from the experience of visiting a World Heritage Site! 20 years ago, I visited with my husband and we were excited to take our kids. Unfortunately it was a completely different experience. Read more Written 28 December 2023
• stevenP8511QU 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles NO HOTEL PICK UP FOR THE TOUR-REFUND REQUESTED I booked the Tour with The pickup at the Bluebay Grand Ismerala Play De Carmen. The tour operator messaged me the day before that pickup was at 7:25am. My friend and wife were also going. We all met just before 7am at hotel lobby. At 7:25am I messaged tour operator that I was at lobby. No answer. The tour operator was messaging my friend just after 7 was asking him if he was at the lobby. He responded, Yes. At 725 my friend messaged tour operator and asked where he was. Tour operator responded that he was at front gate of hotel. My friend responded we are at lobby it will take us about 15 min to get to front gate. His wife is slow and handicapped. I messaged tour operator at 738 and said we were at gate. No response. Tour operator responded to my friend and said he had to leave. My friend made a complaint to trip advisor and left a negative review. Tour operator replied that he was not responding to messages he sent that morning. My friend said outright on review he was a LIAR! The email I got when I booked said Hotel pickup. At no time before pickup did they say in email or message that pickup was at front gate 6 blocks from lobby. If tour operator responds and says something different, he is a LIAR! I'm a seasoned traveler and been around the world and to tell us he had to leave when we were on the way to front gate is NOT OK. I was on the phone with Trip Advisor/VIATOR at 738 asking them to send tour operator back to pick us up at front gate. Tour operator did not answer calls from VIATOR. I requested a refund and called my Credit card to dispute charges. I ended up renting a car and driving to Chichen Itza which costed me double! Read more Written 18 December 2023
• joannapR1726GA 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Do go to Chichen Itza, but skip this tour I do not recommend this tour. It has 2 hours of good content which is Chichen Itza, the rest is not worthwhile. We were told it would be 12 hours, online it lists 11 hours. It took over 14 hours because they spent an hour picking people up at various stops and 1.5 hours dropping people off, at places that weren’t the same ones they picked them up and were much farther and out of the way. When I asked the tour guide why it was so much longer, they blamed the people who sell the tour and said they give out the incorrect info. The cenote is OK. It’s fun to watch people jump in the cold water for a few minutes. The food at the buffet was not good and waiters said the empanadas were cheese but were actually meat. Valledolid was skippable. All throughout the tour, there were stops to look at the same knickknacks sold throughout the area. At Chichen itza, we had a tour guide for 35 minutes and an hour to walk around on our own. Additionally there was a constant hard sell on the tour to upgrade to the “lux” package that includes drinks, to tip the guide at Chichen, to tip the other guides, etc… I recommend skipping this agency’s trip and getting a private taxi or sharing a taxi with another group. The whole trip could easily be done in 6 hours instead of 14: 2 hours on the road, 2 hours at Chichen Itza. 2 hours back home. Chichen Itza was worthwhile and fantastic. Everything else was not worth the time. Read more Written 17 December 2023
• cathyhB2583BF 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour but not exactly as described Chitchen Itza was fantastic. The guide explained so much. Shame we only had 2 hours could have spent much longer. The cenote swim was lovely and the Mayan ritual more spiritual than I thought it would be. Quite a lot of pressure to buy obsidian figures which were very expensive This tour states drinks inc alcoholic drinks and you don’t get that. We could have had beer but I don’t drink that anything else including drinks at lunch need to be paid for so we didn’t bother The lunch is edible and worth filling up because you don’t get back until about 8.30. It’s a long time on a coach, especially for children but totally worth it in my opinion. Read more Written 3 December 2023
• Inspire481952 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Not happy from the start! Salesmen lied and told us this was the express tour. So we started out a little perturbed. The tour guide at Chichin Itzá was very lax. I did an express tour last year and was with people who were not with last year. The express tour was a 6 hour tour and was very informative. The sales men told us this was an express tour but turned into an almost 16 hour day. The tour guide was very basic in the information given at the ruins, there is so much more information with other companies. Basically they stop where they more than likely get commission for as they push you to buys things at certain stops! Good luck! Read more Written 30 November 2023
• R7272MXnicolab 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Worst trip ever experienced We were told the journey would take approx 80min ! 4 hours later after picking up from every hotel in Mexico and not a clue what was going on, as the tour guide mainly spoke in Spanish and only spoke in English because I had a go at him ! . We were given a dry sandwich and fruit juice box fit for a 2 year old and still not a clue what the day was to entail . The trip to Tulum was stressful and we spent most of the time waiting around , we were running late on all activities so ended up having a rushed lunch at 4pm and unguided in to what was happening next so spent most of the day aimlessly walking around . A delayed long journey back to the hotel and completely unorganised. This is the worst trip I have ever experienced spent most of my day on a coach ! Read more Written 5 November 2023
• Discover02961071599 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles NEVER USE THIS COMPANY!! Terrible experience!! It was a terrible experience. The tour started almost an hour late with no explanation. Then all they tried to do was sell us stuff all the way to Chichen Itza. The bus was extremely hot with the area the guides sat in at the front of the bus being very cool but the rest of the group had to deal with the rest of the bus being like a sauna. I asked if my partner could sit in the seats where they were keeping the umbrellas as she was struggling and they wouldn’t accomodate saying the aircon had been turned on, the temperature did not improve. Shocking experience for what was not a cheap tour. Never use and I actively am advising people to avoid this company. Read more Written 25 October 2023
• H7233NPmarianp 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Worst tour ever My husband and I took the tour, and when we arrived, it took long to wait and was very confused on which bus and which tour guide we were assigned. During the tour there was NO English spoken when the tour guide clearly knew I spoke only English. There was no acknowledgement or good service. There was no water given during the ride and nor did any of the guides offer us anything to drink even if we were willing to pay on this very humid ride. The 1st stop was the cenote and buffet where we only got 1.5hrs to go around and eat. That was not enough time to enjoy anything, instead I felt rushed. The next stop was Vailladod where we only got 20mins to go around which was not ideal. At our last stop chitchen Itza we had 2hrs with was a sufficient amount of time but could have been longer. All around the tour was not a tour and there was no service or kindness involved. Read more Written 15 September 2023
• sanimshafi 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles We enjoyed the way we expected We enjoyed the trip, they took care whatever they promised to us. We were in two trips , Chichen Itzá & Tulúm Coba tour both tour was good & we enjoyed their service. Moreover both buses were luxury. Mizanur Rahman From Orlando, Florida Read more Written 22 August 2023

More to explore in Valladolid

Full Day Tour Chichen Itza plus Cenotes From Valladolid provided by Mayab Travel Tours

Chichen Itza from Valladolid | Tips & 2024 Prices

How to get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid ?

Chichen Itza is one of the best day tours from the charming town of Valladolid and an essential stop on any Yucatan itinerary. 

Chichen Itza is one of the incredible New Seven Wonders of the World, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its huge importance as the most important monument of the Mayan heritage. And there is no better base for visiting it than Valladolid Mexico , which in addition to Chichen Itza, has a plethora of other exciting things to do and places to visit.

More resources | 

Best Things to Do in Valladolid 

Best Hotels in Valladolid 

Best Valladolid Cenotes

Best Chichen Itza Tours from Tulum

This post is a comprehensive guide full of practical advice and tips for getting to Chichen Itza from Valladolid.

Chichen Itza from Valladolid Summary

Where is chichen itza located.

The New World Wonder Chichen Itza is located 44 km east of Valladolid, just off the main road 180 that connects Valladolid with Merida. 

Chichen Itza from Cancun distance | 196 km (2 hours 40 minutes)

Chichen Itza distance from Tulum | 152 km (2 hours 10 minutes)

Chichen Itza from Merida | 119 km (1 hour 30 minutes)

Chichen Itza from Playa del Carmen | 181 km (2 hours 30 minutes)

Chichen Itza from Mexico City | 1,430 km (about 18 hours by car)

Valladolid Chichen Itza Route

If you’re staying in one of the hotels in Valladolid , you can get to Chichen Itza in around 45 minutes. The route from Valladolid Mexico to Chichen Itza is super straightforward, basically following the main road no 180 to Merida. 

Chichen Itza on a Map 

How to Get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid?

How to go to Chichen Itza from Valladolid? Well, there are multiple ways how you can get to Chichen Itza ruins from Valladolid. Read the next sections to discover the pros and cons of each mode of transport. 

#1 Chichen Itza Tour from Valladolid

Best for | Learning history & interesting facts about Chichen Itza.

Book | with Viator

One of the best ways of getting to Chichen Itza from Valladolid is on a private tour. This option is particularly recommended for families or groups of friends. If you don’t want to worry about any of the logistics of getting from Valladolid to Chichen Itza and don’t feel comfortable renting a car in Mexico, book one of the Chichen Itza private tours.

The most important piece of advice for visiting Chichen Itza is to arrive as early as possible to avoid the crowds, and with this private tour with Viator, you can choose the departure time ! You will also be able to select a cenote to swim in after the Chichen Itza tour. 

Another advantage of Chichen Itza tours from Valladolid is that you will get an experienced local guide that will tell you some of the most interesting Chichen Itza facts . Visiting a World Wonder without understanding anything about it is really not a good idea because the story behind Chichen Itza and its significance in the ancient Maya world are what will make your visit special.  

Book this private tour + cenote and lunch here:

If you’re hungry for even more adventure in one day, take a tour that combines Chichen Itza with a visit to Izamal, which is one of the most picturesque Mexican towns! 

Book your trip to Valladolid, Izamal & cenote here:

• Fully refundable up to 24 hours prior
• Worry-free (everything is arranged for you)
• You get to learn the most about Chichen Itza
• You also visit a cenote of your choice
• Get to Chichen Itza very early

Chichen Itza from Riviera Maya

Chichen Itza from Tulum Tour 

Valladolid + Chichen Itza and Cenote Tour

Chichen Itza from Cancun Tour

Private Tour of Chichen Itza + Cenote Saamal + free time in Valladolid

#2 Valladolid to Chichen Itza By Car

Best for | Flexibility & creating your own itinerary 

Book | with Discover Cars to avoid scams & hidden costs

Cost | $20 to $60 per day

How to visit Chichen Itza independently? The best way of making your own way to Chichen Itza from Valladolid is by car. Driving in Mexico may sound a little intimidating at first glance, but really the roads in Yucatan are really good and well-marked, similar to what you’re used to back home. 

The first thing to know is that at the time of writing this post, there were no car rental shops available in Valladolid , so make sure you rent your car in Cancun, Tulum, Merida or Playa del Carmen. Even if there is one shop open in Valladolid, I wouldn’t count on it, especially during the high season months. 

Another thing to be aware of is the common Mexico car rental scams . The most common is the low price advertised online and the hidden costs you get to pay when you show up at the car rental. If you see car rental prices advertised as $5 per day, you should know straight away it’s a scam, and you will end up paying a much higher rate. Another one is when you’re already insured through your credit card or life insurance, but you get asked to purchase another Mexico car insurance. 

The best way of avoiding those car rental scams and hidden costs is to book your car in advance through a reputable car comparison website, such as Discover Cars , which can look after you even if you run into a dispute with the local car rental in Cancun. 

Book your rental car at the best rate here:

Mexico Car Rental Explained 

I normally only advise pre-booking car rental online during the high season, but in the case of Mexico, it is super important that you get your booking through a reputable car rental service such as Discover Cars and opt for full cover.  

What’s the cost to rent a car in Cancun?

Cancun car rental prices can vary a lot and will depend on the following factors:

Cancun car rental cost factors:

Age of the driver (under the 30s, pay more)

Driver’s licence origin

Time of the year (higher prices during high season)

Rental duration (the longer you want to hire the car, the lower the cost per day) 

The car rental price, including full coverage, which I recommend, can vary from $20 to $60 per day , depending on the above factors. I recommend entering your preferred dates on the Discover Cars website to find out the exact cost based on your profile and preferences. 

What’s the age requirement?

If you’re using Discover Cars , the age requirement is 18 years old , but the car rental price for that age is at least three times higher compared to the main driver’s age of 21 years old. Some car rental companies may even charge a little more for drivers aged below 30 years old.  

Deposit 

Most car rentals in Cancun require a deposit even if you opt-in for full insurance. The deposit amount depends on the rental duration, but you can expect around $350 for a week of rental . This money is returned in full when you return the car. 

You can give them your credit card details for the deposit, and they will freeze the deposit amount instead of taking it. But, if you use your debit card, the money will be taken and refunded within 5-7 days after you return the car. Some rental companies require a credit card specifically to be entered into their system. Your credit card is only charged if you decide to extend your car rental period. 

Full cover and why you should get it 

Whenever I rent a car abroad, I always go for full coverage to protect myself from extra costs, and I strongly advise you to do the same. The basic cover only protects you from accidents caused by a third party, which is not much protection at all. 

The full cover protects your deposit from the deduction for any damages to the car that occurs from your fault, theft, or loss of key, towing fees, damages to wheels and windows and any other admin fees that the rental company may want to charge you.   

The full cover costs between $5-$12 extra per day but gives you peace of mind, which is priceless. 

Airport pick-up or delivery to your Cancun hotel

Depending on your plans, you can either pick up your rental car at Cancun Aiport or get it delivered to your Cancun hotel. 

More Tips for Renting a Car in Mexico

Record the condition of the car.

Before you drive away from the rental car shop, take photos of all dents & scratches, and go around the car and record a video. This is a good practice whenever you rent a car abroad, which will protect you from unjust claims against you. Also, make sure you drop off your rented car with plenty of time to spare before your flight in case there is a dispute.   

Be aware of extra charges

Here are some common extra charges that a car rental company will apply.

Drop-off at a different location | this is normally the most costly addition to the base rate.

Empty tank fee | search for a gas station near the car drop-off point, and make sure you fuel up before returning your car.

Additional driver | all car rental companies charge for an extra driver, and the cost is normally relatively high.

Rental duration extension | be aware of the daily cost of the extension; some rentals can charge you double for extending the car rental agreement.  

Print your car rental agreement & full insurance cover certificate

Make sure you’ve got all documents printed with you, including your car rental agreement showing the total price and how much you’ve already paid, a full cover certificate and some important customer service phone numbers . 

You should also carry your passpor t with you when driving in Mexico.

International Driving Licence

US driving licence is valid in Mexico, and if your driver’s licence comes from another country, make sure you have your international driving licence on you at all times when driving. 

• The most flexible option
• Allows you to visit as many places as possible
• Cost-effective for families and groups of friends
• Responsibility
• No car rental shops in Valladolid

#3 Chichen Itza from Valladolid with Colectivo Bus

Best for | saving a few bucks & experiencing the local vibe

Bus Stop Location | Colectivo Valladolid Chichen Itza

Cost | 40 MXN ($2)

Another way of getting to Chichen Itza from Valladolid is taking a colectivo. Colectivos are a form of local transport in Mexico, which is privately owned and typically serves very local, short routes such as the Valladolid Chichen Itza route. 

The colectivo buses or vans are normally small, fitting about 14 people and often a little tired and aged. There is no set time schedule, and usually, the driver waits to get enough passengers before he leaves to make sure the trip is money worthwhile for him. 

I highly recommend going on at least one colectivo, during your Mexico vacation to experience the local vibe! And, if you don’t like it, at least you will appreciate the public transport back home more! 😉 Colectivos are also super cheap, and if you’re on a budget, they are perfect for you!

The Valladolid colectivo to Chichen Itza cost 40 pesos each way, which is just under $2. The trip takes around 45 minutes, and you will get dropped off on the main road, very close to the Chichen Itza entrance. To get a return Chichen Itza to Valladolid colectivo, just come back to the same spot. 

If you also want to visit Cenote Ik Kil, ask the colectivo driver to drop you off there. Expect to pay around 20 pesos ($1), and once you finish swimming and enjoying the cenote, go back to the main road where you got dropped off and wait for a colectivo back to Valladolid. 

Valladolid to Chichen Itza colectivo buses start at 7 am and leave every 30 minutes. If you decide to take one, make sure you’re there just before 7 am! The colectivo Valladolid Chichen Itza bus stop is situated on road 180, two blocks west of the Valladolid main square. There is a big sign, which should make it easier to find the stop and also a shaded waiting area. 

• The cheapest option
• Good for experiencing the local vibe
• No set timetable
• You can only visit Chichen Itza & Cenote Ik Kil
• The least comfortable way

#4 Getting to Chichen Itza from Valladolid by ADO Bus

Best for | afternoon visit to Chichen Itza

ADO Valladolid to Chichen Itza Bus Stop | Location on Goolge

Cost | 140 pesos one way (under $7)

Another way of getting to Chichen Itza is a Chichen Itza ADO bus. ADO buses are modern, reliable and way more comfortable than colectivo buses. They are also very affordable, and I normally would recommend taking the ADO bus, but in this case, not so much.

The reason why ADO bus Valladolid Chichen Itza is not the best is due to its limited timetable on this route. In fact, there is only one time you can take the ADO bus, which is at 11:27 am. 

This may actually not be an entirely bad idea because the Chichen Itza Mayan pyramids close at 4:30 pm, which means the archaeological site will start getting empty after midday. Getting this Chichen Itza ADO bus may be a good alternative for those that struggle to wake up early in the morning during their vacation. 

You can catch the Chichen Itza to Valladolid return bus from the same spot, where you got dropped off at 4:00 pm.  

• Comfortable bus
• Very limited timetable

#5 Chichen Itza Valladolid Route by Motorbike

Best for | single travellers or couples that want some flexibility 

Cost | 500 pesos per day ($24)

If you have experience in riding a scooter, you can also get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid by scooter. The road that connects the city with the Chichen Itza ruin is very straightforward, and if you leave early in the morning, it will also be almost empty. 

On the way back from Chichen Itza to Valladolid, you will have to share the road with many bus tours, so make sure you’re comfortable with that. The road between Valladolid and Chichen Itza is quite wide, and this shouldn’t be an issue for experienced scooter drivers. 

There are many scooter rental shops in Valladolid, located mostly around the city’s main square. I recommend you check the Google reviews before you choose the rental shop. You can also ask for a recommendation at your Valladolid accommodation. We used K’ox Balak , and had a really good experience. 

Scooter Rental Valladolid Price

Expect to pay 500 pesos per day for a small scooter. If you want to rent a motorbike for a few days, it is normal to ask for a small discount. Double check that the scooter is in good condition and that the breaks and lights work well. Also, wear a helmet!  

Also, make sure you are a confident motorbike rider ! Mexico is probably not the best place to ride a scooter for the first time! 

Driving licence

Check if your driving licence allows you to ride a scooter and, if so, what size. This will vary depending on your country. I, for example, owe a full UK driving licence, which gives me the right to ride motorbikes and scooters up to 125cc . 

Insurance  

Another thing to check is your insurance. Make sure your travel insurance covers you when you have an accident on the scooter. Injuring yourself on a scooter is one of the most common reasons for hospital admissions for tourists abroad! Travel insurance typically covers motorbikes up to 125cc, but don’t rely on this information, and verify your own insurance contract. 

• Relatively cheap
• Some flexibility
• Only an option if you have experience in riding a motorbike
• Not the most comfortable (rain, heat, wind)

#6 By Taxi Valladolid to Chichen Itza

Best for | last-minute trip 

Cost | 600 – 800 pesos one way ($30 – $40)

Where to hail a taxi? | location

The last way of getting to Chichen Itza from Valladolid is by taxi. If you want to flag a taxi to get to Chichen Itza, the best place to do it is road number 180, which starts at the western side of the city’s main square, and it’s also where colectivos and regular buses have their terminals. 

Expect to pay anything from $30 to $40 each way, but the price will depend a lot on your negotiation skills and the mood of the taxi driver. 

*Taxi drivers don’t typically use meters, and it’s also a way cheaper to hail a cab from the street in comparison to pre-booking the taxi to get you from your hotel. 

• A good option for a last-minute trip
• Comfortable
• Requires negotiating the price

Chichen Itza from Valladolid FAQ

How much are Chichen Itza Tickets?

Chichen Itza admission price is 571 pesos, which is $29 . This Chichen Itza price consists of two elements – the entrance and a small charge that has to be made in cash , which I think is some kind of governmental fee. 

What are Chichen Itza Opening Hours?

The Chichen Itza hours of operation are 8 am to 4:30 pm 

How Much Time to Visit Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza archaeological site is huge, and there is lots to see and learn about! Set aside at least 2-3 hours to be able to visit the entire site and be prepared for a lot of walking.  

How to Pronounce Chichen Itza? 

So how do you pronounce Chichen Itza, which is an ancient Mayan word? 

Chichen Itza pronunciation: chee – chen – it – suh

What is Chichen Itza, and Why Is It Important?

Chichen Itza was a super important Mayan city back in 600 AD that boasted a robust economy and architectural superiority. Today, the Chichen Itza pyramid and the entire site are one of the most important monuments of the Mayan heritage. 

Chichen Itza is that it takes its name from the nearby cenote – Sacred Cenote, which was used for sacrificial offerings. Chichen means ‘mouth of the wells’, and Itza refers to the name of a Mayan tribe that lived nearby. 

The most famous part of Chichen Itza is the Kulkulan Pyramid (also known as El Castillo), which was a temple devoted to Kulkulan and a giant calendar! The temple has 365 steps representing days in the year and four sides representing four seasons. The pyramid was used to teach things like when to plant seeds and harvest crops. 

How much is the Chichen Itza Parking?

The official Chichen Itza parking cost 80 pesos. There are also some unofficial private car parks just off the main road. They will encourage you to park with them, which is fine, but make sure you ask for the price before committing.  

Is there an ATM at Chichen Itza? 

Although there is an ATM at Chichen Itza, the exchange rate is bad, and you can’t rely on it working 100% of the time. Part of the entrance ticket needs to be paid in cash (pesos only), and that is why I recommend you bring enough cash with you. 

Can You Climb Chichen Itza?

No. While climbing Chichen Itza was allowed in the past, this is no longer the case. As you can imagine, the ban on climbing the Chichen Itza Mexico Pyramids is in place to protect these important monuments so that future generations can still enjoy them. 

Can You Swim in the Cenote at Chichen Itza?

As you can expect from a UNESCO heritage site, you cannot swim in the Chichen Itza Cenote .

The Sacred Cenote is also known as the ‘well of sacrifice’. The Mayans believed that this cenote was the entrance to the underworld and used it for sacrificial ceremonies. 

Archaeologists found gold, pottery, jade and human remains inside the sinkhole and concluded that the Mayans deposited sacrifices in the cenote for the Mayan god of rain – Chaac. 

Is there a car rental Valladolid based?

At the time of writing this post, there were no Valladolid Mexico car rental shops available. If you’re heading to Valladolid, and want a car, make sure you rent it in Cancun. You can browse for the best car rental deals on Discover Cars .  

More Tips For Visiting Chichen Itza From Valladolid

Come early | For the best experience, and to beat the crowds, arrive at Chichen Itza just before the opening time. In the morning, you will also have the best light for photography, and you will enjoy it more when it’s still not too hot.

Bring cash | As I mentioned earlier, you will need to pay some part of the ticket in cash (pesos only). 

Check weather forecast | It may sound obvious, but check the weather forecast for rain before your Chichen Itza day trip! 

Protect yourself from sun & heat | Bring sun cream, a hut and plenty of water to stay hydrated. I also like wearing a light long-sleeve shirt to protect myself from undesired tan lines. 

Drones, tripods and portable loudspeakers are not allowed | If you have on you any of these objects, you will be required to leave them in a locker provided for no extra charge. I perfectly understand why they don’t want drones at the UNESCO site, but I’m still perplexed about the ban on tripods. 

Extra fee for videography | There is an additional fee of 50 pesos ( under $3) for taking videos on professional cameras. This rule is not really enforced, the site is too big, and I actually haven’t seen anyone supervising. 

Mal is a Polish-British travel photographer and writer with over 4 years experience. As the co-owner of multiple travel websites, her work has been featured in places like USA Today and Seattle Times.

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How to Get From Valladolid to Chichen Itza in 2024: Local’s Guide

Wondering how to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza? I’ve got you covered here. 

I am a British Travel Writer who has been living in the Mexican Yucatan for the last few years and has made this journey numerous times. In this post, we will look at the best ways to make the journey, their costs, and transit time so that you can figure out which option is the best for you. 

If at the end you still have questions, you are more than welcome to reach out to me.

Table of Contents

How to Get From Valladolid to Chichen Itza in 2024

Valladolid and Chichen Itza are pretty close to each other. There is only a distance of 45km (28 miles) between the two places and the journey takes about 50 minutes by road. 

For this reason, many travelers choose to spend a night in a hotel or hacienda in Valladolid to break up the longer journey from Cancun or the Riviera Maya. 

From Valladolid, you then have a couple of options available for getting to Chichen Itza: You can opt to take a bus or colectivo, you can try and get a local cab driver or moto-taxi to take you or you can rent a car and drive yourself. 

As of 2024, The Tren Maya train is finally up and running and allows you to get from Cancun and the Riviera Maya to Merida, Campeche, and Palenque in Chiapas in record time. Chichen Itza is only one stop away from Valladolid, but unfortunately, the Chichen Itza stop isn’t currently functioning so for now, that is not a viable option. 

If you are heading to Chichen Itza as part of a wider trip around the Yucatan, renting a car can really give you a lot more freedom and flexibility in your schedule. Even though public transport in the Yucatan is improving year after year, there are still many off-the-beaten-path Mayan ruins in the Yucatan, secluded beaches, and forgotten pueblos that are only really accessible if you have a vehicle. 

If you are not comfortable driving overseas though, the next best option is the colectivo. 

Take the ADO bus 

ADO buses depart twice a day from Valladolid to Chichen Itza. An ADO Connecta minivan departs each morning at 10:00 am, arriving at Chichen Itza at 10:40 am and a standard ADO bus departs at 10:37, arriving at 11:27. 

The Connecta bus costs 139 pesos each way and the standard ADO bus is 158 pesos. 

Return buses run from Chichen Itza to Valladolid at 09:20 am, 11:35 am, 13:25 am, and 16:00pm respectively. Truthfully, arriving at the site at 10:40 or 11:27 and leaving at 16:00 gives you plenty of time to explore, even if you love history and want to be super thorough in exploring with a local guide. 

The only problem is perhaps that the site is at its most crowded at this time and you might have to wait a while to purchase your entrance ticket. Since Chichen Itza opens at 08:00 am, the only way to experience it while it is “quiet” is to be waiting outside before it opens and be one of the first people inside at 08:00 am. 

The crowds don’t really distract from the magic of the site, but it is something worth keeping in mind.  If getting great photos without crowds is important to you, consider staying in one of the hotels near Chichen Itza that have their own private entrance to the site.

The ADO bus station in Valladolid is located in the city’s historic center, at the intersection of Calle 39 and Calle 46. ADO buses are clean, modern, and comfortable and come with air conditioning and reclining seats. 

Buying your ADO bus tickets 

You can buy your ADO bus tickets via the official ADO website and app, in person at the ticket office, or via BusBud. It is a good idea to purchase them online in advance a couple of days before you plan to visit Chichen Itza as it is not unheard of for buses to sell out, especially if you travel during the high season. 

The ADO website and app are available only in Spanish, though they are pretty self-explanatory and simple to use. The only problem is that the site sometimes glitches and will not allow you to use a foreign bank card so you might have difficulty completing your purchase. (Annoyingly this has been a problem for years now!) 

You can also purchase tickets via Busbud, though they do charge a small administrative fee. (It is literally only like $1). Tickets will be sent to your email address with a QR code that you can present for the driver to scan when you board the bus. 

Take the colectivo to Chichen Itza

The cheapest way to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza is to take a colectivo, which can also be a fun local experience! Colectivos are shared minivans that carry up to 15 passengers and depart when full.

The first colectivo departs from Calle. 39 2-215 in central Valladolid at 7.00am. This is a great time to aim for as it means that you will arrive at the ruins at 7:40 am ready for them to open at 08:00 am.

The Chichen Itza colectivos depart at frequent intervals throughout the day, although their schedule is not published online anywhere and is often subject to changes so it is worth checking the times with someone at your hotel in Valladolid. A ticket to Chichen Itza costs just 40 pesos each way (circa $2). You want to make sure that you are waiting at the stop at least ten minutes before the bus. The last return bus from Chichen Itza to Valladolid departs from the ruins at 5:00 p.m. and will leave from the same place you are dropped off. Do note that these buses are usually old, not air-conditioned, and very crowded which can be a bit uncomfortable during the summer months.

Rent a car and drive yourself 

Renting a car in Mexico and driving to Chichen Itza is the fastest and most convenient way to get to the ruins. Driving in Mexico is not as daunting as it sounds , particularly in the touristic Yucatan where the roads are in very good condition and are honestly not that different from roads in the US and Canada.

Driving independently means that you can leave your hotel early and get to Chichen Itza before the crowds, without having to deal with all the stops that colectivos and buses make. It also means that you can make the most of your day’s exploration. From Chichen Itza, you can drive to Pisté and have a late breakfast, before traveling on to Izamal, the Homun Cenotes, or go to stay in the Yucatan capital of Merida. 

You can expect to pay around $25 a day for a car rental in Mexico, including full coverage insurance. Depending on your itinerary, it might be convenient for you to pick up your rental car in Merida , Valladolid, or Cancun.

Several reputable global brands operate across the Yucatan including the likes of Avis, Hertz, and Budget. It is a good idea to use a platform such as Discover Cars to compare and contrast quotes from different rental companies and make sure that you secure the best deal. 

When you arrive at the archeological site, you can park in the large dedicated parking lot in front of it. The parking fee is 200 pesos ($9.80) and this is in addition to the site entrance fee.

Participate in an organized tour 

Opting to participate in an organized Chichen Itza tour takes a lot of the stress out of managing the logistics of how to get from A to B during your Yucatan itinerary . Most tours offer hotel pick-up and drop-off so you don’t need to worry about waiting around at bus stations, etc. Many also visit other notable ruins, towns, and cenotes in the area after heading to Chichen Itza – e.g. you can book a tour that combines Chichen with the ruins at Ek Balam , cenote Ik Kil, or the golden town of Izamal . 

Both private and small-group tours are available and they often don’t work out that much more expensive than public transport.

Recommended Chichen Itza tours from Valladolid  

A number of reputable Valladolid to Chichen Itza tours are detailed below for your consideration. Book your spot online in advance to avoid disappointment as they do sell out. (Especially during the peak season!)

• Guided tour of Chichen Itza, Cenote Yokdzonot, and Izamal with lunch
• Private tour of Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil and Ek Balam

Call a cab 

Ridesharing apps like Didi, Uber, and Indrive are available in major Yucatan cities like Merida and Cancun but unfortunately, they don’t exist in Valladolid. There are also fewer licensed taxi firms in this area as it is far less touristy than the Riviera Maya.

Still, taking a cab or a moto taxi can be a convenient option if you want to arrive early and not compete with crowded buses. It is a good idea to have your hotel/hostel organize a taxi for you and call a driver that they trust. You will need to agree on a price with the driver before getting in the car. This should cost no more than around 500 pesos ($25). Yucatecans are friendly but cab drivers are often a law unto themselves. If you hop into a random street taxi, it really is not unheard of for a cabbie to quote an outlandish price to a tourist because they assume that you do not know what the going rate is.

Yucatan cabs do not have meters either so if you do find yourself having to take a cab from a rank, it is imperative that you confirm it before they set off. Otherwise, you will be at their mercy when you arrive at Chichen Itza and tell you what amount you have to pay. It may be possible to negotiate with a taxi driver and have them wait for you while you are exploring the ruins and then drive you back to Valladolid but since you will probably want to spend a fair few hours here, it may work out easier to just take the bus back

Visiting Chichen Itza in 2024 and beyond

Chichen Itza needs no introduction. Even if you know very little about Mayan history, you are probably familiar with this Ancient city. No matter how many times you have seen Chichen Itza featured in documentaries or photographed on social media, nothing compares to visiting Chichen Itza in person and seeing it for yourself .  The city has been UNESCO-protected since 1988 and in 2007, it was designated as one of the “new” seven wonders of the world. 

You usually only see the main temple ( Temple of Kukulcán) in photographs of Chichen Itza. But the site is far more expansive than you may realize.

Besides the infamous temple, there are a few things to look out for. There is an obscure rectangular stone platform near the main temple with skulls and skeletons carved into the side of it known as the Tzompantli  .

This is where the Ancient Maya would stack the bodies of their enemies to scare off other tribes! A 10-minute walk from the Temple of Kukulcán brings you to a sacred cenote. The Mayans would sacrifice children and young men to Xibalba (the Mayan underworld) here in the hope that in return, the gods would grant the locals with good fortune. You should aim to be in line at Chichen Itza as soon as it opens at 8 a.m. Avoid visiting on Sundays if you can as admission is free for Mexicans on this day and the site becomes busier than ever. 

If you enter at 8, you will have the ruins almost to yourself for a good 30-40 minutes or so before all the tour buses arrive. It’s an early start but it’s worth it!

Final thoughts

Hopefully, this post has helped you to figure out the easiest and most preferable way to get to the Chichen Itza archeological site in 2024. However, if you still have any concerns or general questions about planning a trip to the Mexican Yucatan, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

As I mentioned, I have been living here in the Yucatan capital of Merida for the last couple of years. I am always happy to chat so feel free to ping me an email or drop me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

If you are visiting the Yucatan region for the first time, you might also enjoy this post on the best time to visit the Yucatan or this article on safety in the Yucatan .

Have a wonderful time in Mexico! Buen Viaje! Melissa xo

Melissa Douglas

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A Budget Guide to Chichen Itza from Valladolid

Chichen Itza is a collection of ancient Mayan ruins that are now considered one of the 7 wonders of the world. With the most recognised structure being the El Castillo or the Pyramid of Kukulkan there is plenty more to see over the 4 square miles of this ancient city.

As with much of the Mayan history, historical facts are disputed, but it’s commonly thought Chichen Itza is about 1500 years old. 

A lot of backpackers hadn’t spoken that highly of visiting Chichen Itza, but we felt we couldn’t skip a wonder of the world. I am extremely glad we went, obviously, it’s a massive tourist attraction, not a hidden gem so expect plenty of other people. But there was so much more to the site than snapping a picture in front of El Castillo.

Tour companies charge an arm and a leg for a tour from Valladolid, not too sure why as it seemed so much cheaper if you were in Cancun. But as a backpacker I’m here to provide you with the cheapest possible way, our total cost to visit was just £30.44 per person. 

So if you want to know how to explore Chichen Itza from Valladolid on a budget keep reading.

Did you know?

The iconic Pyramid of Kukulkan has 91 steps on each side each representing a different season. And with 4 sides, meaning there are 365 steps, a step for each day of the year.

How to Get There from Valladolid

As I mentioned before if you are willing to splash the cash and go all out there are plenty of tour companies willing to pick you up at your hotel/hostel and whisk you away for a full tour to Chichen Itza, some include other sites like cenotes and even lunch. 

But this option just wasn’t in our budget, instead, we opted to take a collective from Valladolid to Chichen Itza. It costs 80 (£3.50ish) pesos for a return ticket and the buses run from 7 am till about 5:30 pm, it takes around 45 minutes. The collectivo stop is located just down from the ado bus station, find the exact location on google maps linked here.

It’s worth noting this isn’t the most glamorous way to travel, the collectives our often overcrowded, stop a lot for drop-offs/pickups and also won’t have air-con. That being said our journeys were simple and I even lucked out and got the breezy front seat on the way back all to myself.

The collectivo’s run about every 20/30 minutes so once you’re ready to leave Chichen Itza, head back outside to the front and close to where you were dropped off you will see a massive tree, that’s where you will find the collectivo stop. If you can’t find it one of the lovely tour guides outside will point it out to you or alternatively ask the driver before you get off.

Alternative options to get there on your own are a taxi(expect to pay 500-600 pesos each way), rent a car or the Ado bus, but this doesn’t run very frequently.

Entrance Fees

The ticket for entrance will cost you 571 pesos (£24ish) and you are able to pay this with cash or by card. The ticket office is open from 8 am until 4:30 pm. The fees can change quite regularly so for the most up-to-date information, check the official website. ( Link here )

Tour Guide or No Tour Guide?

This is the debate Josh and I had when deciding whether to visit Chichen Itza, like I mentioned earlier a lot of backpackers had said Chichen wasn’t worth it. But most of those people had gone without any sort of guide, therefore they just walked around looking at all the ruins without much context.

This brings us to another dilemma we already mentioned all the arranged tours(including transportation etc) were way too much and also included things we didn’t need nor want. So after a lot of internet research, we found an audio tour guide for £5.88 for both of us, it worked off-line, so we just popped in our headphones and explored our way around Chichen Itza. ( Link for the audio guide we used here )

For us, this worked really well as we still got to learn about the history of the site and take it all in at our own pace. 

However, there is plenty of tour guides just outside the entrance willing to show you the best-hidden secrets of Chichen Itza. 6 people on our collectivo actually grouped together to pay for a tour guide and it cost them all 200 pesos (£8.55) per person.

I do think getting a local tour guide would be much more informative and interactive and not to mention better for the local people than the audio guide. In our case, it really helped us save some money at an otherwise very expensive tourist site.

To conclude I do believe having a tour guide/audio guide is much better than having no guide at all. It’s such a big sight that you might accidentally skip over a section, not everything is super obvious. And secondly, without the stories behind the structures, it would be a very crowded day out staring at crumbled buildings.

Must See Sights of Chichen Itza

Pyramid of Kukulkan/El Castillo – This is easily the most recognised structure within Chichen Itza, the name El Castillo came from Spanish conquistadors. And it was also discovered that the Mayans dedicated this structure to their serpent-deity Kukulkan.

The Great Ball Court – This is the largest and most well-preserved ball court in all of Mesoamerica, the Mayans used this court for their symbolic game known as Pok-a-Tok, the object of that game was to get a rubber ball through a hoop without the use of hands. Be sure to check out the carvings on the walls of the Great Ball Court.

Temple of the Warriors – As one of the largest structures in Chichen Itza, you for sure won’t miss this. The large stepped pyramid was named after the nearby carved columns showing warriors.

Cenote Sagrado – The Mayans believed that this sacred cenote was home to their rain god named Chaac and it’s believed to have been a point of pilgrimage for the Mayans. Gold, silver, jade, shell, wood, obsidian and also signs of human sacrificial remains were all found within this cenote.

Tzompantli – As one of the more gruesome structures in Chichen Itza, it’s thought to have been a sacrificial platform where the skulls of the decapitated were displayed and carved into the walls.

Caracol – This was one of my personal favourite structures in Chichen Itza, at the top of the temple you will see a slightly crumbled circular building that was believed to be an Observatory. The Mayans succeeded in calculating solar and lunar eclipses, the rising and setting of Venus and the movements of stars and planets, as well as the solar year, with great accuracy.

The Ossuary – This structure is very similar to that of the Pyramid of Kukulkan, with 4 staircases and an upper temple. It was built above a cavern where all sorts of offerings were discovered, this is also known as the High Priest Tomb but from my understanding, there were never any tombs discovered within this structure.

Mayans were so advanced in their findings in terms of astrology, some believed they were visited by aliens!

There is good reason this was chosen as a wonder of the world, the stunning architecture, fascinating history and beautiful atmosphere. It’s most definitely worth a visit when you’re in Valladolid, especially now you know how to see it for less than £31 per person!

Let me know what your favourite Chichen Itza fact was in the comments below!

Chichen Itza used to be a whole lot smellier because the Spanish actually used Chichen Itza as a cattle farm in 1588.

*Disclaimer* This post contains affiliate links, if you purchase through one of these links I would receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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5 Best Ways to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itzá, Mexico

By: Author AnaMarija Mishachkovska

Posted on Published: August 29, 2022  - Last updated: November 22, 2023

You can get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza by ADO bus, on a tour, private transfer, rental car, or taxi.

The cheapest option to travel from Valladolid to Chichen Itzá is by ADO bus , which costs USD 13. The journey takes about 50 minutes.

The most popular option is the Guided Tour , offering transportation to Chichen Itzá, activities, and a day filled with fun and exploration at a very affordable price.

The fastest way to travel to Chichen Itzá from Valladolid is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi , which takes about 30 minutes.

If you are a history enthusiast or are fascinated with ancient ruins, Chichen Itza is the place for you! Having ventured through Mexico’s every nook and cranny, I’ve honed my knowledge of its varied travel routes and methods.

In this guide, I’ll explain how to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itzá, Mexico, efficiently and easily. So, if you’re keen on a hassle-free Mexican adventure, you’re in the right place!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Valladolid to Chichen Itza .

Table of Contents

Transportation Options from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

The following table outlines all transportation options from Valladolid to Chichen Itza :

How far is Chichen Itza from Valladolid?

The distance from Valladolid to Chichen Itza is 26.2 miles or 42.1 kilometers.

Getting to Chichen Itza from Valladolid

1. ado bus from valladolid to chichen itza.

Journey Duration: 50 minutes

Traveling by bus is the easiest and cheapest way to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza !

Valladolid is a town near Chichen Itza, where travelers exploring the site usually stay overnight. 

So, if you’re staying in Valladolid, you can easily get to the Mayan site by simply catching the ADO coach bus that takes only 50 minutes to arrive! 

This is a direct bus operated by ADO, which offers a comfortable and convenient ride!

But remember, there’s only one bus to Chichen Itza departing from Valladolid daily, which departs at 11:25 AM from the Valladolid Center and arrives at the tourist zone in Chichen Itza. 

The bus tickets are very inexpensive and cost only USD 13!

Since this is a popular choice for Chichen Itza, save your seats and buy your tickets online in advance!

Valladolid to Chichen Itza ADO Bus Schedule:

The table below displays the ADO bus timetable for trips from Valladolid to Chichen Itza, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

2. Transport + Tour from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

Another way to explore and get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid is by booking one of the many tours from this nearby town that include transport to the site!

This is a top pick, especially for solo travelers or those who want to gain more knowledge and dive deeper into the history of this Mayan city! 

By joining one of the Chichen Itza tours from Valladolid , you get the transfer to and from the site, a guided tour, and sometimes even additional amenities are included!

Many companies offer tours and transport to Chichen Itza, so it’s up to you to decide which tour you will join!

You can pre-book your transfer+tour from Valladolid to Chichen Itza online now!

3. Private Transfer from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

Journey Duration: 40 minutes

Alternatively, if you want the freedom to explore independently but still need a way to Reach Chichen Itza, you can book private transport from Valladolid! 

This way, you won’t be driving yourself, but you will still get there in the comfort of your vehicle! You will get a private driver to take you to Chichen Itza in about 40 minutes!

Mexican travel agencies provide private transfers for this route, so you can book this service after researching the best deals online or directly in Valladolid.

Usually, this option is recommended only for groups or families because it is more expensive than public transportation.

Do you need help arranging your transportation?

Complete this form and one of our transportation specialists will be in touch!

We specialize in arranging transportation across Guatemala , Costa Rica, Mexico , Peru, Panama, Brazil, Thailand, and Colombia!

4. Driving with a Rental Car from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

If you’re feeling adventurous and want complete independence, you can go to one of the car rental agencies in Valladolid and rent a car to drive to Chichen Itza yourself! 

You can travel and explore independently by renting a car from Valladolid to Chichen Itza!

The various sightseeing destinations around Yucatan are frequently accessible by renting a car, allowing travelers to customize their itinerary.

By driving a car, you can get directly to the ruins in about 40 minutes! And the best part? You don’t have to get tied to a schedule; you can always head back when you want!

The drive to Chichen Itza is easy and smooth, with roads in excellent condition. 

Additionally, to avoid scams, we recommend renting a car online . You can compare prices and get a safer experience by using Rentalcars!

5. Taxi from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

And lastly, since Valladolid is a short distance from Chichen Itza, it is also safe to take a regular taxi.

This option is available anytime, but when choosing a cab, ensure it’s a reliable taxi company or driver.

A taxi ride from Valladolid to Chichen Itza should cost around USD 30-USD 45, depending on the time of day. To avoid being scammed, agree on a price with your driver before departing!

Best day tours in Chichen Itzá, Mexico

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the  best tours in Chichen Itzá, Mexico .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go to chichen itza without a tour.

Yes, getting to Chichen Itza without a tour and exploring alone is possible! Many tourists decide to go this way.

Is the drive to Chichen Itza safe?

Since Chichen Itza is a tourist attraction, the roads from Valladolid to the site are in excellent condition. Therefore, the drive to Chichen Itza is pretty safe!

How much does it cost to see Chichen Itza?

The Chichén Itzá entrance fee is about USD 13.

Does the ADO bus go to Chichen Itza?

The ADO bus company offers service from Valladolid to Chichen Itza . The bus leaves once daily at 11:25 AM.

What is the cheapest way to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza?

The cheapest way to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza is by bus , which costs USD 13.

What is the fastest way to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza?

The fastest way to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza is to travel by car, which takes 40 minutes.

More Routes from Valladolid

Valladolid to Chichen Itzá

Valladolid to Holbox

• About the Author

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Chichén Itzá Full-Day Tour with Mayan Buffet, Cenote & Valladolid

• Round-trip transportation service
• Certified guided tour at Chichén Itzá
• Free time at Chichén Itzá
• Delicious Mayan buffet
• Swim in Xcajum cenote
• Visit to Valladolid
• Drinks at restaurant, and lifejackets at cenote
• Cenotes and Mayan Ruins Tax (765 mexican pesos per person)
• Entry/Admission - Hacienda Oxman Cenote
• We offer round-trip transportation service to all our travelers that are staying in hotels at Cancún (Hotel Zone and Downtown), and Puerto Morelos. For some hotels or lodging centers (located west of Tulum Avenue, or south of Las Torres Avenue.) in the city of Cancun, a meeting point applies. If your hotel is not listed, contact us to arrange your transportation service. NOTE: Pick-up time varies depending on the location of the hotel. Generally it applies from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, for hotels further away from the center of Cancun it is possible that the pick-up time varies between 6:40 AM, or even 9:20 AM. In your confirmation message that we send 24 hours before the start of the experience, we will indicate the exact pickup time.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Chichen Itza Stop: 5 hours See details
• 2 Hacienda Oxman Cenote Stop: 3 hours - Admission excluded See details
• 3 Valladolid Stop: 3 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• chanellw2014 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles It was just ok I'm not one to leave reviews, but this excursion in my opinion was just OK. It was my first time zip lining and going on ATVs. I actually hurt myself and the guy running the tour was very accommodating towards me. I loved that, thanks again. What I did not expect were the hidden fees per person that was due once you arrived. After paying for the entire tour your asked to pay like $40 per person for some unknown reason. That wasn't cool. The free lunch was enough for a toddler and it taste horrible. Overall, it was just OK. Read more Written March 7, 2024
• alicialW7724DA 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun birthday trip to Jungle Park Great time. Went for my solo birthday vacation. Booked this tour last minute but it was worth it. They send a bus to pick you up from your hotel, and take you to the destination. The ride was approximately 1 hour. We did the zip lines, ATVs, swan in the Cenote and had a nice lunch. Staff was very friendly and informative. Would definitely recommend! Read more Written February 5, 2024
• christinarK7110TX 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles This tour was great! This excursion was really cool. Van picked us up for our resort in Playa del Carmen and it was about 40 minutes to the location. Once you get there it is about 10 mins down a dirt road so it was a bit of a bumpy ride. Our guide Eddie was awesome and ended up towing my scared 10 year old daughter in a life preserver for the whole tour. He was a great guide!! Read more Written January 30, 2024
• fallonh772 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Go to jungle kingdom We had a great time atv’s horse back riding and zip lining. Great customer service and great pictures. Read more Written January 4, 2024
• Kevin S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Off the Hook! Booked this trip thru trip advisor at 830 am the same day for 1pm pick up. This was due to our planned trip being canceled thru another booking agency. They sent confirmation via email that would grab us by 130, which they did after picking up other customers. Took 30 min to get there from our hotel which was the closest one Hilton off 307. Got there and they explained everything from start to finish. There was an additional tax charged when we got there for $146.00. Not a big deal and another review mentioned it. They tax you for everything. Our hotel only uses and promoted certain companies, which is why they told us there was no available tours left. I got the last laugh as this place was awesome! I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a fun day (5hrs) of adventure. Read more Written January 1, 2024
• richard m 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience 👏🏽 Most definitely had a good time enjoyed every part, only reason I didn't give5 stars was the communication in beginning was a lil shaky. Also the cenote was a lil different from what i expected but ended up loving it even more and the private guided tour to the myan ruins was a complete surprise as it wasnt in the trip itinerary but im definitely not complaining we loved all of it and i highly recomend it just come prepared for the MOSQUITOES!! 14+ bites and still itching days later lol. Read more Written December 8, 2023
• hungry365247 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Need to provide English speaking guide. Our guide spoke mostly in Spanish. He would only speak English to tell us when to get back on the bus. Read more Written November 25, 2023
• Helpfulhand123 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Thumbs up to Favio! Absolutely loved the speed boat and the snorkelling, Favio was our guide and he have good instruction and explained do’s and don’ts and was very friendly and helpful. We did the Mayan experience at the beginning and although it was good I felt it was a bit prolonged and was more to get photos and videos for you to buy afterwards. You could take your own photos but of course the ones that were taken were very good. All staff were friendly and helpful. Read more Written November 23, 2023
• R4491TMscottj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nice experience! Everyone were amazing but I want to mention the best entertainer in the crew "chucho" he was extremely funny and we had a blast dancing with him, everyone loves Chucho! Read more Written November 20, 2023
• Suzie R 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful, adventurous, fun! Very fun experience. Our guide was “jaguar” and he was very helpful in getting over my fear of the zip line. After that it was smooth sailing. Amazing pictures as well very good quality. Highly recommend. Read more Written November 19, 2023
• 487aziahl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best for extreme adventures We went to Cancun and we found this activity to be quite fun, so we decided to book it when we were there. It was very fun to ride an ATV through the jungle and swing on the zip lines. The truth is that me and my friends are into extreme adventures, so after this We decided to immerse ourselves in the cenote for a while to cool off and in the end we ended up riding a horse which was a little scary so in the end the adventure was somewhere between extreme and terrifying but we had a lot of fun. Read more Written November 18, 2023
• edwardoh474 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great service!! Well and quickly, they gave me my pick up time very soon and the driver arriived very punctual, we arrived at the Airport quickly and he helped us unload the luggage. The driver was talktive and pleasant... Thanks i recommend it Read more Written November 18, 2023
• leilamN1845IM 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Super fun, we will come back We had an incredible time on this speedboat experience, it was super fun, we had an incredible time, we snorkeled, the truth is that the two hours of the tour went by quickly but next time we will return Read more Written November 15, 2023
• I9024NDlisac 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles ATVS It was a good experience, the driver arrived on time, the trip was a little long but it was worth it, the ATV is very fast and the zip lines are high, you really feel the adrenaline, I recommend them. Read more Written November 15, 2023
• dannyjR9528FF 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great adrenaline option in Cancun We had a blast! We highly recommend this excursion if you are visiting Cancún with friends, the Atv experience and the cenote was our favorite part, they charge 700 pesos once we arrived to the park but at the end we released that is cheaper the final cost than other companies. Special mentions for Ismael and George our tour guides Read more Written November 15, 2023

More to explore in Cancun

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Buy it with

Chichén Itzá Full-Day Tour with Mayan Buffet, Cenote & Valladolid provided by Magenta Travel

From Riviera Maya: Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, & Valladolid

Set out on a journey that peels back the layers of time, revealing the ancient secrets of the Yucatan Peninsula’s rich heritage. The tour ‘From Riviera Maya: Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, & Valladolid’ promises a day filled with wonder and exploration.

As visitors step into the footsteps of the Mayan civilization, they will encounter more than just ruins and landscapes; each stop on this itinerary offers a piece of a larger, intricate puzzle waiting to be unraveled. The allure of Chichen Itza, the allure of Ik Kil Cenote, the allure of Valladolid – what mysteries lie in wait, begging to be uncovered?

• Guided tour of Chichen Itza, showcasing its ancient wonders
• Swim in Ik Kil Cenote for a refreshing experience
• Explore Valladolid’s colonial architecture and cultural heritage
• Enjoy a Mayan cooking demonstration and delectable lunch

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Cancun: Nocturnal Marine Life Snorkeling Experience
• From Riviera Maya: Day Tour to Contoy and Isla Mujeres
• From Playa Del Carmen/Tulum: Maya Adrenaline Park Tour
• Cancun & Riviera Maya: Xel-Há All-Inclusive & Transportation

Tour Highlights

Explore the captivating tour highlights of Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Valladolid , enjoying ancient history, natural beauty , and colonial charm all in one unforgettable adventure.

Dive into the heart of Mayan culture with a guided tour of the Chichen Itza archaeological site, where ancient temples and pyramids reveal the mysteries of this fascinating civilization.

For those seeking adventure activities, a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Ik Kil Cenote offers a refreshing break surrounded by lush greenery.

Wander through Valladolid’s old town, admiring its colonial architecture and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Get ready to experience the best of both worlds – an exploration of Mayan heritage and thrilling adventures await on this remarkable journey.

Customer Feedback

Immersing travelers in the tour experience, feedback from previous customers provides valuable insights into the excursion to Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Valladolid . The reviews highlight various aspects of the tour, including:

Improving Communication : Some customers suggested better communication regarding payment requirements and pickup locations.

Pickup Challenges : Several reviewers faced challenges with pickup locations and encountered additional transport costs.

Guide’s Knowledge and Friendliness : Positive feedback was given regarding the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the overall experience for many participants.

These insights offer a glimpse into the tour’s strengths and areas where improvements could be made to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for future travelers.

Booking Information

The booking information for the tour to Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Valladolid offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing travelers to adjust plans if needed. Guests can reserve now and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.

The tour has a duration of 12 hours, providing ample time to explore each destination thoroughly. Starting times vary, so it’s essential to check availability beforehand. Pickup options are available, with a 10-minute wait time in the hotel lobby for those choosing this convenience.

Most hotels have designated tour pickup areas, while other accommodations will be assigned a meeting point. This comprehensive booking approach ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Payment Details

Continuing from the booking flexibility offered, travelers can secure their spot on the tour to Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Valladolid without immediate payment through the convenient reserve now and pay later option. This hassle-free process enhances the online reservation experience, ensuring ease and flexibility for all participants.

The payment details aim to simplify the booking procedure, allowing individuals to confirm their participation without the need for instant financial commitment. The options provided cater to different preferences, making it convenient for travelers to plan their adventure seamlessly.

• Multiple payment options available
• Flexible payment schedules to suit individual needs
• Secure your reservation with ease

Review Recommendations

To enhance the overall customer experience, the tour service should consider implementing clearer communication channels regarding payment requirements and pickup locations based on the feedback received from previous reviews. Some reviewers faced challenges with pickup locations and additional transport costs, indicating a need for improved communication in these areas.

By addressing these concerns proactively, the tour service can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience for all participants. Clear instructions on payment processes and pickup points can alleviate any confusion and enhance customer satisfaction.

Implementing these improvements won’t only streamline the logistics but also demonstrate a commitment to addressing customer feedback promptly. By focusing on improving communication and addressing pickup challenges , the tour service can elevate the overall quality of their offerings.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Riviera Maya: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour
• Coba, Tulum, Cenote & Lunch ECO Full Day From Rivera
• Riviera Maya: Whale Shark Tour
• Turtles and Cenotes Tour
• Cancun: Chichen Itza, Coba, & Tulum Day Trip With Pickup
• Riviera Maya: Xel-Há Park All-Inclusive 1-Day Pass

Common questions

Are Entrance Fees to the Chichen Itza Archaeological Site and Ik Kil Cenote Included in the Tour Price?

Entrance fees to Chichen Itza and Ik Kil Cenote are included in the tour price. The experience offers a comprehensive package with no additional costs for these sites. Visitors can enjoy these iconic locations worry-free, enhancing the overall tour experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants to Swim in the Ik Kil Cenote?

There is no minimum age requirement for participants to swim in the Ik Kil Cenote. All ages can enjoy this refreshing experience. So, whether young or old, everyone can dive into the crystal-clear waters and have a great time!

Are Vegetarian or Vegan Meal Options Available During the Buffet Lunch?

Vegetarian and vegan meal options are available during the buffet lunch. Guests can enjoy a variety of veggie choices and plant-based dishes. These options cater to different dietary preferences, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all participants.

Is There a Restroom on the Transportation Provided for the Tour?

Yes, there is a restroom on the transportation provided for the tour. Travelers can access this facility during the trip, ensuring convenience and comfort throughout the journey. The availability of a restroom adds to the overall positive experience.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed at the Chichen Itza Archaeological Site and Ik Kil Cenote?

Photography is permitted at Chichen Itza, but video recording is restricted to designated areas. At Ik Kil Cenote, visitors can take photos but must abide by rules for video recording. Capture memories responsibly while respecting the sites.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Riviera Maya: Shopping Half Day Trip to Cancun
• Riviera Maya: Tulum Ruins and 2 Cenotes Half-Day Tour
• 5×1 REGULAR: Tulum, Coba, Cenote & Playa Del Carmen
• From Riviera Maya: Chichen Itza Tour With Traditional Buffet
• Riviera Maya: Two-Reef Snorkeling Experience
• Riviera Maya: Rio Secreto Wild Tour With Lunch
• Riviera Maya: WaveRunners & Beach Club Access
• Playa Del Carmen: Cooking Class & Local Markets Tour
• Rivera Maya: Jungle Trip With ATV, Ziplines and Cenote Swim
• From Riviera Maya: Tulum Instagram Tour With Photographer
• Tulum: Sian Ka’an Lagoons and Cenote Escondido Tour

Enjoy the wonders of the Mayan civilization and the beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula on the ‘From Riviera Maya: Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, & Valladolid’ tour.

With the perfect blend of history, culture , culinary delights , and natural beauty , this experience promises an unforgettable journey for travelers.

Book now and get ready to create lasting memories on this enriching excursion.

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Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

How To Get From Valladolid To Chichen Itza – Updated 2024

Last Updated on February 5, 2024 by Soumya

How to go to Chichen Itza from Valladolid? A common question that plagues all our minds when we are in the beautiful city of Valladolid, Mexico .

The magical town of Valladolid is the best place to stay if you have Chichen Itza on your Mexico itinerary.

Valladolid is close to the Chichen Itza ruins (just an hour away) and has many wonderful things to do.

Getting to Chichen Itza from Valladolid is easy but requires some planning.

There are many ways you can go to Chichen Itza from Valladolid – by colectivo, bus, taxi, car, or guided tours.

In this detailed transport guide, you’ll find the 6 best ways to travel from Valladolid to Chichen Itza and vice versa, from Chichen Itza to Valladolid.

And, there’s a surprise at the end – the Valladolid to Chichen Itza train!!

I have analyzed all the Valladolid – Chichen Itza transport options by price, time taken, and comfort levels so you know what to expect. Read through and let me know if you have found your best fit.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Ride the Valladolid to Chichen Itza Colectivo

A good old colectivo is the cheapest way to get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid. And, to be honest, sometimes the most efficient.

If you haven’t booked a Chichen Itza tour or don’t have a car, just show up at the Valladolid colectivo stop. Board a colectivo. And get to Chichen Itza . Yes, it is that simple!

A colectivo is a mini-van that can take 12 – 14 passengers simultaneously. The driver usually waits for the van to fill up (usually takes 20-30 mins), then starts the journey.

Don’t expect colectivos to be super comfy. They are the cheapest means of transport, after all.

Sometimes, air-conditioning may not work. More often, there are no formal queues, and things are a little disorganized.

But they get the job done – getting you to Chichen Itza from Valladolid and back – and that’s important.

Honestly, colectivos make Chichen Itza an easy day trip from Valladolid without much planning.

Valladolid Chichen Itza Colectivo Hours

Colectivos frequently run between Valladolid – Chichen Itza and back.

They start as early as 7:00 am in the morning from Valladolid and run till later in the day. Chichen Itza archeological site closes at 4:00 pm (latest hours on the official website here ), so plan accordingly.

The last colectivo from Chichen Itza to Valladolid leaves around 4:30 pm.

A colectivo ride takes about 45 mins – 1 hour . Earlier, colectivos used to make multiple stops to drop off locals, but nowadays, they are usually full of tourists. So, you get to Chichen Itza faster.

Where is the Chichen Itza collective stop in Valladolid?

The colectivo stop in Valladolid is on Calle 39, between C.46 and C.48.

The address is C. 39 2-215, Centro, 97784 Valladolid Yucatan. Click here to access directions to the Valladolid to Chichen Itza colectivo stop on Google Maps.

What is the Valladolid to Chichen Itza colectivo fare?

The colectivo fare to Chichen Itza from Valladolid is 40 pesos ($2 approx), one way.

You’ll need to pay the driver directly. So, have some cash on you.

For the return trip from Chichen Itza to Valladolid, you can buy your tickets from the colectivo drivers at the point where they drop you.

Take the Ado Bus from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

Taking a bus is a great way to travel between Valladolid and Chichen Itza.

I highly recommend using ADO buses when traveling in Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico .

Two kinds of ADO buses run between Chichen Itza and Valladolid – ADO Bus and ADO Conecta Vans.

ADO buses are comfortable. They have air-conditioning, reclining seats, and usually one toilet at the back.

ADO Conecta is usually a minivan and has AC but no toilet.

Buses leave from the ADO bus stop at the corner of Calle 39 and Calle 46. The address is Calle 39 No. 221 por 46 Centro C.P. 97780 Valladolid Yucatan. Access directions to the ADO bus stop here on Google Maps.

The bus drops you right in front of the archaeological site at Chichen Itza. You can board your return bus from the same place.

ADO Bus – Pros & Cons

ADO bus is definitely more comfortable than a Valladolid colectivo but costs about 3X times or more.

For instance, a bus ticket to Chichen Itza from Valladolid and back each way costs about 170 pesos (approx. $10). The ADO Conecta fare is 155 pesos (approximately $9).

One big issue with taking an ADO bus is the frequency.

• There is just one ADO bus from Valladolid to Chichen Itza every day, which runs at 10:37 am. It arrives in Chichen Itza at 11:27 pm.
• On Sundays, Valladolid – Chichen Itza buses are more frequent – like 2-3 times. Check the schedules here .
• The ADO Conecta leaves at 10:00 am and reaches Chichen Itza at 10:40 am.
• This means you waste your precious morning and arrive in Chichen Itza only when it is full of tourists.

There is just one option for your return journey on the bus from Chichen Itza to Valladolid.

Take the ADO Conecta Van that leaves the archaeological site at 2:05 pm and arrives in Valladolid at 2:45 pm. There are two more vans before that, but it does not make sense to take them.

Honestly, if I had to choose between the Chichen Itza to Valladolid bus and the colectivo, I would take the colectivo any day.

How to book your ADO bus ticket from Valladolid to Chichen Itza?

You can book the ADO bus ticket in 3 ways.

• Get your ticket at the bus ticket counter before you travel. We have traveled extensively on ADO buses in Mexico and booked our tickets at the counter on many occasions. Remember to arrive a little early before the tickets get sold out, especially because there’s just one bus out of Valladolid bound for Chichen Itza.
• Book online on the ADO website or ADO app. You’ll be asked for your personal and payment details, after which you’ll receive the PDF version of the ticket in your inbox. If your non-Mexican credit card does not work while paying, you can pay by Paypal. I find the ADO website too painful to navigate.
• You can also use a third-party aggregator like Busbud to book your journey. This has been my preferred option lately, so I can be assured of a seat.

Get a Taxi from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

Getting a taxi is the most convenient and quickest way to travel from Valladolid to Chichen Itza and back. You’ll get to the ruins in less than 40 minutes.

However, the cost is significantly higher than riding the bus or a colectivo. Expect to pay around $30 – $40 each way.

You can connect with local taxi providers in Valladolid, Mexico, here and here .

Or you can schedule a Valladolid to Chichen Itza pick-up here .

Book a Chichen Itza Tour from Valladolid

One of the best ways to explore the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza is by joining a guided tour led by a local tour guide. I love how guides pepper their stories with local legends and myths, something you won’t find elsewhere.

With its numerous mysteries and intriguing facts , Chichen Itza deserves a guided tour.

Unfortunately, most good Chichen Itza tours start from Cancun or Playa del Carmen . Valladolid only has a few.

The best choice from Valladolid is this full-day tour that includes a guided tour of Chichen Itza ruins, a dip in Cenote Yokdzonot + local lunch, and a visit to the Yellow Town of Izamal.

Guests love this tour (all 5 stars); the guide is professional and knowledgeable. Read more reviews here .

Alternatively, you can book this private tour, which includes Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Ek Balam ruins .

Getting a guided tour from Valladolid makes adding Chichen Itza to your Valladolid travel itinerary super easy.

Rent a Car to Get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid

Can you drive to Chichen Itza? You sure can!

Rent a car and drive to Chichen Itza. The drive takes about 40 minutes.

Parking is available near the archaeological site and costs about 80 pesos ($5).

I don’t drive, so I cannot talk about my experience renting a car in Mexico. Renting a car in Valladolid, Mexico, may not be very easy. But you can easily rent one in Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen .

Click here to check for rates and availability of car rentals from Cancun and Riviera Maya.

Having your car gives you complete flexibility over your journey.

Ride the Valladolid to Chichen Itza Train

The newest and the most exciting option to get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid is by Tren Maya or the Mayan Train.

The new Tren Maya connects over 30 stops in the Mexican states of Yucatan, Quintana Roo, Campeche, Chiapas, and Tabasco. Valladolid and Chichen Itza are two of them.

They have regular and special tickets. You can check all the details on the official website here .

I haven’t ridden the Mayan Train yet, but I am excited to get on it soon. If you have already been on it, let us know your experience in the comments below.

How to get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid – FAQ

How far is chichen itza from valladolid.

Chichen Itza is located about 28 miles (45km) east of Valladolid, Mexico. Driving here takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

How do I get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza?

You can get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid by colectivo, bus, car, taxi, or a guided tour. The cheapest mode of transport between Valladolid and Chichen Itza is a colectivo, while the most convenient option is to drive a car.

How much is a Colectivo from Valladolid to Chichen Itza?

The cost of a colectivo ride from Valladolid to Chichen Itza (and vice versa) is 40 pesos ($2) one way. You can board the colectivo from the colectivo stand at Calle 39, between C.46 and C.48.

How long does it take to get from Chichen Itza to Valladolid?

It takes about an hour to get to Valladolid from Chichen Itza by colectivo or bus. If you are riding a taxi or driving your own car, it may take shorter, about 40 minutes.

What airport is closest to Chichen Itza?

Merida International Airport is the closest to Chichen Itza. But Cancun International Airport, which is a little further away, has more flight options.

Loved this Valladolid to Chichen Itza transport guide? Pin it for later!

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