THE 10 BEST Chichen Itza Tours & Excursions

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excursion chichen itza cancun

1. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour

excursion chichen itza cancun

2. Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour with Tequila and Lunch

excursion chichen itza cancun

3. VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour

excursion chichen itza cancun

4. Early morning Chichen Itza Tour, Cenote and Tequila Tasting

excursion chichen itza cancun

5. Chichen Private Experience

excursion chichen itza cancun

6. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Small Group Day Trip

excursion chichen itza cancun

7. Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins Reduced Group

excursion chichen itza cancun

8. Chichen Itza Full Day Tour

excursion chichen itza cancun

9. Chichen Itza Sunrise

excursion chichen itza cancun

10. Chichén Itzá, Cenote and Valladolid with Lunch and transportation.

excursion chichen itza cancun

11. Chichen Itza Early Access Tour, Cenote Swim, Tequila and Lunch

excursion chichen itza cancun

12. Chichen Itza, Cenote & Buffet Lunch

excursion chichen itza cancun

13. Chichen Itza and Cenote Xcajum All-Inclusive Tour, No Hidden Fees

excursion chichen itza cancun

14. Deluxe adventure! 2 Sacred Cenotes, Chichen Itza and Valladolid from Tulum City

excursion chichen itza cancun

15. Chichen Itza, Private Cenote , Food Experience & the magic Izamal

excursion chichen itza cancun

16. VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour - Luxury Car

excursion chichen itza cancun

17. Chichen Itza Classic Tour and Cenote Saamal Departures from Tulum

excursion chichen itza cancun

18. Chichen Itza Tour Options with Cenote Swim from Playa del Carmen

excursion chichen itza cancun

19. Chichén Itza - Tour Xichén Deluxe by Xcaret

excursion chichen itza cancun

20. Chichén Itzá, Cenote Suytún & Cenote Ik-kil Expedition

excursion chichen itza cancun

21. Skip the Line Chichen Itza Private Tour, Sacred Cenote & Lunch

excursion chichen itza cancun

22. Tour de Dia a Chichén Cenote Ik Kil Cenote Suytun y Valladolid

excursion chichen itza cancun

23. Chichén Itzá Tour with Hubiku Cenote, Valladolid & Lunch

excursion chichen itza cancun

24. Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote From Playa del Carmen

excursion chichen itza cancun

25. Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Hubiku Cenote Reduced Group

excursion chichen itza cancun

26. Chichen Itza Private Tour plus Cenote and Valladolid Visit

excursion chichen itza cancun

27. Chichen Itza Premium

excursion chichen itza cancun

28. Chichén Itzá de Lux Tour No extra charges

excursion chichen itza cancun

29. Tour to Chichen, Izamal & cenote from Merida

excursion chichen itza cancun

30. Ek Balam, Chichen Itza, Cenote & buffet lunch Tour

What travelers are saying.

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  • Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour
  • Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour with Tequila and Lunch
  • Early morning Chichen Itza Tour, Cenote and Tequila Tasting
  • VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour
  • Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins Reduced Group
  • Flavio's Tours
  • Mexico Highlights
  • Carlos Cutiz Tours
  • Chichen Itza Wonder of the world
  • El camino más corto Travel - tu guía en tierras mayas -
  • Xichen by Xcaret
  • Chichen Itza Cenote

Every Steph

12 BEST Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun [2024]

By: Author Virginia Bello

Posted on Last updated: December 13, 2023

Categories Mexico , North America

Looking for the greatest Chichen Itza tours from Cancun? You’re in the right place! Check out these 10 fantastic options to choose the one that best suits your plans. 

Chichen Itza is the most popular pre-Columbian Mayan city in Mexico . It’s especially famous for its main pyramid, El Castillo , and the incredible glimpse it gives of the ancient civilization. It’s very likely, then, that the Chichen Itza ruins are already on your travel itinerary. 

And they should! The archaeological site is impressive, and not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but a New Wonder of the World as well. Not to mention all the cool facts about Chichen Itza you’ll discover when you visit!

Image of the main pyramid at Chichen Itza, inserted in a post about the best Chichen Itza tours from Cancun.

To get the most out of your experience, I highly recommend visiting with an organized tour . But how do you know which is the best option? With the incredible number of tours available, making the choice can feel overwhelming.

Which is why I’ve crafted this list of the ultimate Chichen Itza tours from Cancun. Go through them to figure out which is the perfect match for you! 

I personally use Viator for booking tours around the world, and I recommend it because it offers a great cancellation policy. If your travel plans change, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.

Limited time? These are the best tours 👇

OUR PICK: The BEST Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun

Our top pick is the Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour . This excursion takes you to explore the magnificent archaeological ruins with a certified guide. This way, you’ll get to not only admire the ancient structures but understand their purpose and history.

Spend some time in a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip, and then head to the enchanting city of Valladolid. Oozing colonial charm, this location is a gem in Yucatan, and you’ll have free time to explore it.

Cap off the tour with a delicious buffet lunch, and be dropped off at your hotel in Cancun for the ultimate hassle-free experience.

👉 Why this tour of Chichen Itza? Besides having over 14 THOUSAND 5-star reviews?! It’s a super comprehensive tour that not only takes you to the ruins (with a professional guide to tour it with) but also to explore the major landmarks of the region.

You’ll spend time in Valladolid, Yucatan’s most beautiful colonial city, and swim in a natural cenote. Plus, a tasty Mexican lunch will help you refuel after your adventures, and it’s all included in the tour price!

Read what the reviews say 👇

”Great tour!! I loved learning about the ruins and the Mayan history. My tour guides were awesome. Special thanks to the driver Bryan who drove the bus the whole day and kept us safe. The cenote they took us too was so beautiful!! I had never seen one in person so it was awesome being able to swim in one. Visiting the town of Valladolid was a nice added stop. Loved the tequila tasting; I have never tasted something so yummy. Overall, this tour is definitely worth it. Highly recommend!” Mishell_V – Read more reviews

📝 This Chichen Itza excursion from Cancun includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, a tour around Chichen Itza (entrance fee excluded), visit to a cenote, free time in Valladolid, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Premium Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun

The Visit to Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Valladolid with Lunch from Cancun is a full-day trip that starts with pick up at your hotel. You’ll be taken to the archaeological site for a 2.5-hour tour around the ruins, perfect for understanding the history behind them.

Then it’s time for a refreshing dip in cenote Ik Kil, one of the most beautiful in the area. You’ll have an hour to swim in the natural sinkhole, and then visit the city of Valladolid. Enjoy a traditional lunch, and take the chance to take part in a Temazcal ceremony before going back.

📝 This Chichen Itza from Cancun tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a bilingual guide, lunch, and entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Early Access to Chichen Itza from Cancun

With this Chichen Itza Early Access, Cenote, Tequila & Traditional Lunch you’ll be the first to enter the archaeological site, beating the crowds. I visited Chichen Itza first thing in the morning and can confirm it’s worth the early start!

A professional guide will help you experience Chichen Itza’s history and architecture in-depth, and you’ll then follow them through the jungle to the Yaxunah ruins.

Finally, relax with a refreshing swim in cenote Chichikan and cap off the trip with a scrumptious lunch and tequila tasting.

📝 This Chichen Itza early morning tour also includes : Roundtrip transportation, a tour guide, cenote entrance, lunch, and tequila tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Best Private Tours to Chichen Itza from Cancun

▶️ The VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour is a 10-hour excursion that starts with an early morning visit to Chichen Itza. You’ll beat the crowds and the heat as your guide introduces you to the fascinating history of the site.

Walk around the structures and soak in the unique atmosphere of the ruins. You’ll then head to cenote San Lorenzo Oxman, where you’ll go for a swim. End the tour with a local lunch in Valladolid, and return to your hotel in the Yucatan Peninsula.

📝 This Chichen Itza, Cancun tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, all entrance fees, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Check out the Skip the Line Private Chichen Itza Tour, Sacred Cenote & Lunch . This 7-hour excursion takes you and your tour group of 15 on a trip to the country’s most famous Mayan ruins.

You’ll tour the archaeological site with a private guide, ideal for history buffs eager to know it all. Discover curious facts about the structures and the civilization that lived in them, and then visit a sacred cenote.

You’ll have time to swim and cool off before strolling around the colonial town of Valladolid, and relishing a scrumptious local lunch.

📝 This tour from Cancun to Chichen Itza includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, all entrance fees, snacks, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ How about a Luxury Chichen Itza Tour ? You’ll be picked up at your preferred time in a Suburban vehicle, and driven straight to the archaeological site while enjoying water or beer from a cooler.

Take your time to discover this Wonder of the World, and then the itinerary is up to you! Would you like to visit a cenote? Wander around Valladolid? Stop for lunch in a local restaurant? Your professional driver will be happy to provide recommendations.

The tour accommodates up to 6 people, so it’s cheaper for bigger groups.

📝 This Cancun to Chichen Itza tour includes : A private driver for 10 hours, round-trip transportation from the Mayan Riviera, and a cooler with water and beer. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza Sunrise Tour from Cancun

The Chichen Itza Sunrise and Cenote Ik Kil from Cancun is a private tour for early birds. You’re guaranteed to skip all the crowds by accessing the ruins before the day has even begun! You and up to 14 friends will tour the site with a professional guide as the sun rises above the horizon.

Learn the fascinating details about the Mayan culture, and then pay a visit to Ik Kil cenote for a refreshing swim. The tour allows for a flexible itinerary, so you could add another destination to your trip.

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, bottled water, and breakfast. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza + Other Mayan Ruins

Chichen itza + coba tour from cancun.

The Chichen Itza & Coba Tour with Cenote Swim from Cancun offers a fantastic combo. You’ll start the day with an early visit to Chichen Itza. Explore the ancient ruins with a professional guide, marveling at the size and intricate details of the pyramids.

Enjoy a refreshing break at Cenote Samaal, where you can go for a swim, and then make your way to the stunning Coba Ruins. Climb the tallest pyramid, and take in the spectacular views of lush foliage around it. Finally, refuel with lunch.

📝 This Coba & Chichen Itza tour Cancun includes : Roundtrip transportation, a guide, lunch, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza + Ek Balam Tour

Would rather explore a lesser-known site? This Ek Balam, Chichen Itza, Cenote & buffet lunch Tour might be just what you’re looking for. During a 12-hour excursion you’ll tour the ruins of Chichen Itza, Mexico’s most famous archaeological site, with a guide.

Break the day with a scrumptious lunch and a cenote swim, and then embark on another trip back in time at the site of Ek Balam. An expert archaeologist will introduce you to its history and you’ll have time to wander around the ruins on your own.

📝 This tour includes : Roundtrip transportation, a guide, entrance fees, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum in One Day from Cancun

This Full-Day Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Private Tour with Lunch is perfect if you have limited time and want to focus your trip on visiting Mayan ruins. You’ll check out the three most popular ones in a single day!

Visit Chichen Itza on a guided tour, and refresh in Ik Kil Cenote. You’ll then be treated to a delicious buffet lunch, and head to the ruins of Coba. This spread-out site, surrounded by vegetation, is best explored in a pedicab – and that’s what you’ll do.

Climb up its tallest pyramid, and finally make your way to Tulum. The Tulum ruins stand out for being perched atop a cliff and hold fascinating history. This is one of the most comprehensive Chichen Itza trips you’ll find!

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a private guide, entrance fees, snacks, soft drinks, beer, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza Combo Tour from Cancun

If you have a short time in Cancun, you can benefit from one of the combo Cancun tours to Chichen Itza. These include other attractions in the Riviera Maya, besides the famous ruins.

This Priority Access: Combo Tour: Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor and Chichen Itza is the perfect option to enjoy some of the best attractions Mexico has to offer. Besides the Mayan ruins, you’ll choose one of the adventure parks to spend a thrilling day at.

Xcaret is a natural park, home to several fun and cultural attractions. You can get an adrenaline rush at Xplor, soaring through the jungle on ziplines, or swim in the gorgeous natural aquarium at Xel Ha. Food and drinks are included in all of them.

You can use your admissions on different days, although they have to be experienced within 15 days of each other.

📝 This Cancun Chichen Itza tour includes : Roundtrip transfers, Chichen Itza entrance fees, access to the park of your choice, food and beverages, all equipment, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Go City Cancun Pass with Chichen Itza

A great way of visiting Chichen Itza is by using the Go City Cancun Pass . It allows you to visit over 40 attractions in the city – including the Mayan Ruins – and save up to 45%. It’s especially ideal if you plan on spending a few days in Cancun, as it can help you save a lot of money.

With it, you can enjoy a Chichen Itza day trip from Cancun that includes transfers as well as entrance fee. ➥ GET YOUR GO CITY CANCUN PASS HERE

Go City Cancun Pass to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun

Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun FAQ

There are plenty of fabulous tours from Cancun to Chichen Itza, but in our opinion these are the best options: • Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour • Visit to Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Valladolid with Lunch from Cancun • Chichen Itza Early Access, Cenote, Tequila & Traditional Lunch

Yes, this VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour from Cancun is a fantastic excursion that includes entrance fee, round-trip transportation, and a visit to a sacred cenote.

If you want to visit allll the Mayan ruins in the region in a single tour, these are your best options: • Full-Day Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Private Tour with Lunch • Ek Balam, Chichen Itza, Cenote & lunch Tour • Chichen Itza from Cancun Tour + Coba & Cenote Swim Looking for a Mayan ruins + adventure park combo tour instead? In my opinion, you can’t do better than this Priority Access: Combo Tour: Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor and Chichen Itza .

Virginia Bello

Virginia is a writer originally from Montevideo, Uruguay. She left her career as a TV Producer to gain more freedom and never looked back. She's been traveling the world full-time ever since! Virginia has traveled extensively through Latin America, Europe and Asia. You can currently find her gallivanting through Southeast Asia.

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12 Best Chichen Itza Tours From Cancun

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

Looking for the best Chichen Itza tours from Cancun? 

Taking a day trip to Chichen Itza is not only a chance to witness history but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture. Walking in the footsteps of ancient Mayan people is a truly humbling experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for their remarkable achievements. 

As you wander through the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza, you will feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. The towering pyramid, El Castillo, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Observatory are just a few of the impressive structures that still stand today . The intricate carvings and details on each building tell stories of the fascinating civilisation that thrived thousands of years ago.

We have gathered together the very best tours Chichen Itza from Cancun that are available, including short half-day tours, low-cost tours , action-packed multi-stop tours and the best private tours. 

⭐ In a rush? Book  #1 🛕 Chichen Itza tour from Cancun , including 🤿 swimming in a  cenote . Enjoy a day filled with fun + a tasty lunch ➡️  CHECK RATES HERE .

There is also a section with tips for visiting the unique Mayan ruins, plus information on how to visit independently . 

You are guaranteed to find the perfect tour for you in this article. 

Taking one of the Chichen Itza tours from Cancun is a must-do!

Is Chichen Itza Worth Visiting From Cancun?

The short and emphatic answer is yes, Chichen Itza is definitely worth visiting from Cancun – and from anywhere else in Mexico. As Chichen Itza is only 2.5 hours from Cancun, there is no excuse not to visit what is generally considered one of the Seven Wonders of The World . 

Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. The excavated jungle site is packed with pyramids (El Castillo or Kukulkan is the most famous), several impressive temples (The Temple of the Skulls is a must-see), The Great Ball Court, and so much more. 

You will marvel at the ancient construction techniques, learn about Mayan history and culture and discover how the Mayans lived – and survived – in the jungle hundreds of years ago. 

You will need at least two hours to explore the site, ideally more but can make the most of your trip to Chichen Itza from Cancun by visiting nearby attractions such as a cenote or the colonial city of Valladolid. 

Booking one of the Chichen Itza tours from Cancun is the easiest way to visit the historic site and is an opportunity that should not be missed. 

Chichen Itza Tours From Cancun At A Glance

There are many different Chichen Itza tours from Cancun to choose from.

There are lots of Chichen Itza tours from Cancun to choose from, and each one varies in group size, itinerary and cost. Before you start searching for the best Chichen Itza tour from Cancun for your trip, think about the type of tour you want.

Do you want a direct, no-frills Chichen Itza half-day tour from Cancun, or would you prefer one of the multi-stop Chichen Itza private tours from Cancun? Are you happy to share a large coach with 50 other people, or do you want a small minivan just for your group or family?

All the Chichen Itza tours from Cancun featured in this article offer transportation to and from Cancun, and most of them offer individual hotel pick-ups and drop-offs.

Most of the highly rated tours we feature offer a guided tour of the Chichen Itza, and some include snacks, drinks or a traditional Mexican lunch. All tours include your entrance fees to Chichen Itza. 

The most variation you will find between tours is in the tour itinerary. Some tours provide a direct return trip where your only stop is Chichen Itza, whilst other tours visit places en route to and from Cancun, such as cenotes or Valladolid. 

Whichever day trip to Chichen Itza from Cancun that you choose, we advise booking a tour that offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure . This enables you to keep your trip plans flexible or to claim a refund should you be delayed or fall ill. 

Before completing the booking process, always how long you will actually spend on site in Chichen Itza and exactly what is included – or excluded – on the tour. This will avoid any nasty surprises and disappointments on the day. 

It is also worth checking that the guide speaks your language and what sort of vehicle you will be travelling in. 

A little targeted research could make the difference between a tour which is fabulous or a tour which is a flop. 

TOP PICK Chichen Itza Tour From Cancun

These are our top picks of all the Cancun to Chichen Itza tours that are available. We chose these as our top picks because they fit a lot of attractions into one day, you have a considerable chunk of time at Chichen Itza, plus the tours are good value for money. 

#1 Chichen Itza Cenote + Valladolid 

Chichen Itza tours from Cancun can also include a visit to Valladolid and a stop at a cenote.

WHY BOOK THIS TOUR?

This highly-rated tour Chichen Itza to Cancun packs a lot into one day and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. There is a maximum group size of 45 people. 

Considering all that this tour offers and includes, it is excellent value for money. 

WHAT’S PROVIDED?

The tour starts with a one-hour breakfast stop at the Real Mayab Hotel before arriving at Chichen Itza around midday. 

You will then spend 2.5 hours on-site exploring with a guide and then on your own. From Chichen Itza, you travel to Cenote Chichikan, where you will spend two hours having lunch, swimming, sunbathing and tequila tasting. 

After leaving the cenote, you will drive to Valladolid for a quick 30-minute stop before returning to Cancun. 

Book your trip at the best rate here:

#2 Chichen Itza + Valladolid & Cenote Ik Kil

A tour Chichen Itza from Cancun can also include a visit to Valladolid.

This private Cancun to Chichen Itza tour lasts the whole day (10 – 12 hours), which enables you to spend a lot of time in each fabulous location. 

After an early start from Cancun, the first stop of the day is Chichen Itza, where you will spend three hours. You can enjoy a guided tour plus some free time to explore on your own. 

You will then travel to Cenote Ik Kil, ‘the place of the winds’. This stunning cenote is 48 metres deep and is set in an idyllic jungle setting. You will spend two hours relaxing and swimming at the cenote. 

The tour continues to Valladolid, where you will have three hours to explore its museums, markets, squares and parks. You can enjoy a guided tour plus free time to explore this magical city on your own before returning by your private vehicle to Cancun.  

Book your spot on this tour at the best rate here:

Tours To Chichen Itza From Cancun + Cenote

We always like to pack the most we can into our day trips, so consider the best Chichen Itza tours from Cancun are the tours that also visit other attractions during the day. 

We love visiting the Yucatans’ famous cenotes, so any tour that includes a cenote trip is a good tour!

The following Chichen Itza day trips from Cancun each visit a different cenote, so choose the cenote that fits your preferences and travel style. 

#3 Chichen Itza, Valladolid + Cenote Saamal 

Cenote Saamal Hacienda Selva Maya.

This Chichen Itza and Cenote tour packs a lot into 12 hours, offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and accepts a maximum of 50 guests.

This tour visits Cenote Samaal, one of the most picturesque cenotes in the region. The cenote lies in the Hacienda Selva Maya, which also has zip lines and bike rentals. 

Cenote Saamal is a large open-air cenote with its own picture-perfect waterfall. It is accessed by a long flight of wooden steps and is a perfect cenote for swimming or jumping.

The first stop of the day is Chichen Itza, where you will spend two hours exploring the site with a guide and on your own. 

You will then travel to Cenote Saamal, where you will spend 45 minutes swimming and sunbathing before enjoying a one-hour lunch stop. 

After lunch, you will travel to Valladolid, where you will spend one hour exploring the historic city on your own before returning to Cancun.

#4 Chichen Itza, Valladolid + Cenote Oxman

Valladolid.

This Chichen Itza cenote tour from Cancun has an early 7.30 am departure time in order to get to Chichen Itza before the crowds arrive. It lasts for 12 hours, has a maximum of 60 guests and offers a full refund if you cancel 24 hours before departure. 

The tour visits Cenote Oxman, a popular and scenic semi-open cenote near Valladolid. The cenote is accessed by wooden stairs and is ideal for swimming and jumping; there is even a Tarzan rope if you are feeling brave enough. 

Cenote Oxman also has a swimming pool, sun lounger and hammocks, so it is a fun and relaxing place to visit.  

  WHAT’S PROVIDED?

After your early departure from Cancun, you will visit Chichen Itza for a two-hour guided tour plus free time. 

You will then travel to Cenote Oxman to swim, have lunch and relax for two hours. Once refreshed, you will drive to Valladolid for a quick 30 minutes of free exploring before returning to Cancun. 

#5 Chichen Itza, Valladolid + Cenote Ik kil

Palacio Municipal Valladolid Mexico

This low-cost 11-hour Chichen Itza day trip from Cancun has an early 7 am departure time. It offers a full refund if you cancel 24 hours before departure and accepts a maximum of 50 guests. 

The tour visits Cenote Ik Kil near Chichen Itza as part of its itinerary. Cenote Ik Kil is popular and can get very busy in peak season, but it is so beautiful that it is well worth visiting, despite the crowds.

The open cenote is surrounded by jungle greenery and is draped in lianas hanging down into the water. The water is up to 50 metres deep, so it is perfect for jumping into, and there is a 5-metre-high jumping platform for adventurous visitors.   

The first stop of the tour is a two-hour visit to Chichen Itza, where you can enjoy a guided tour followed by free time to explore on your own. 

You will then make a two-hour stop for a cooking demonstration, after which you will have lunch before journeying on to Cenote Ik Kil. 

After one hour of swimming and enjoying the cenote, you will travel to Valladolid for a very quick 20-minute stop before returning to Cancun. 

Unique Chichen Itza Tours From Cancun 

In addition to direct tours or tours that include cenotes, there are a few trips to Chichen Itza from Cancun that also offer something a little extra special. Both these tours include features that would be hard to do independently. 

#6 Chichen Itza Sunrise Tour 

Chichen Itza tours from Cancun.

This Chichen Itza private tour from Cancun is ideal if you want to avoid daytime crowds. However, you must like early starts as this sunrise tour has a departure time of 3 am!

The tour allows refunds for cancellations up to 24 hours before departure, and, as it is a private tour, there is no limit on maximum or minimum numbers. 

After your early departure time, you will arrive at Chichen Itza to enjoy the spectacular sunrise and the sounds of the jungle walking up. You will spend two hours on a guided tour plus some free time to explore on your own –  and all before the tour buses descend around 10 am. 

Afterwards, you will have two hours at Cenote Ik Kil, where you will also enjoy breakfast before heading back to Cancun. 

This Cancun to Chichen Itza private tour will also allow itinerary tweaks and add-ons to suit your party. 

#7 Chichen Itza Night Show + Valladolid 

Chichen Itza tours from Cancun.

This 13-hour trip to Chichen Itza from Cancun departs at a family-friendly 10 am. It includes several attractions and the chance to see Chichen Itza’s incredible nighttime laser show. 

Note that the show is in Spanish, and your time at Chichen Itza is very short. If you want to fully explore the site, you cannot do it on this tour. 

The first stop after departing Cancun is Cenote Hubiku, where you can enjoy a swim and visit the Mayan village before indulging in a buffet lunch. 

You will then travel to Valladolid, where you will first visit the Don Tadeo Tequila Museum to learn about how tequila is made in this region. The one-hour tour includes tequila tasting.  

After the tour, you will have an additional hour to explore Valladolid on your own before travelling to Chichen Itza for the 45-minute sound, light and laser show. 

Best Private Tours To Chichen Itza From Cancun

If spending part of your precious day trip waiting for other people to board and disembark your bus at multiple stops does not appeal, there are several private Chichen Itza tours from Cancun to choose from. 

Each tour will have its own itinerary, but most tour operators are happy to allow some flexibility in timings and itinerary. However, any changes should be agreed upon in advance of the tour. 

#8 Chichen Itza + Cenote Chukum

Cenote Chukum Valladolid

This 8-hour private tour to Chichen Itza from Cancun has a family-friendly duration and a good variety of stops. It offers a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours before departure and has no minimum or maximum numbers. 

This tour includes a stop at Cenote Chukum, a perfectly circular 130-foot-deep semi-open cenote surrounded by jungle greenery. 

Note that a guide to Chichen Itza is not included on this tour, so if you want a guided tour, you will need to hire a guide when you arrive at the Mayan ruins.  

After being picked up from your hotel or other accommodation, you will travel in comfort to Chichen Itza, where you will spend two hours on site. 

You will then travel to Hacienda Chukum for a 1.5-hour visit to Cenote Chukum, where you can swim, go ziplining or bounce on trampolines before enjoying a buffet lunch with unlimited soft drinks. 

After lunch, you will travel to Valladolid for a quick 30-minute stop before returning to Cancun. 

#9 Chichen Itza, Full Tour Of Valladolid + Ik Kil

Valladolid and Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun.

This 12-hour tour only visits three locations, so you will have sufficient time to fully explore and enjoy each location. This private Chichen Itza excursion from Cancun offers a full refund if you cancel 24 hours before departure and has no minimum or maximum guest requirement.  

After departing from Cancun, the first stop on tour is Chichen Itza, where you will have approximately three hours to explore on your own, or you can hire a guide on site. 

You will then travel to Cenote Ik Kil, where you will spend two hours swimming, relaxing and enjoying a freshly cooked buffet lunch. 

After lunch, you will drive to Valladolid, where you can spend three hours exploring the charming colonial city before returning to your hotel in Cancun. 

#10 Chichen Itza & Cenote Ik Kil

Cenote Ik Kil

This private tour also visits Chichen Itza and Cenote Ik Kil and is ideal for anyone who prefers shorter day trips. The six-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. 

The private tour begins with a guided tour of Chichen Itza, followed by free time to explore on your own. You will have around two hours on site. 

Afterwards, you will drive to Cenote Ik Kil for one hour of swimming and fun before enjoying lunch in a local restaurant. You can try ‘Conchita Pibil, an award-winning traditional Mayan dish made from slow-roasted pork and citrus fruit, plus a range of different flavour tamales. 

You will return directly to Cancun after lunch. 

Combo Chichen Itza Day Tours From Cancun

The following combination tours of Chichen Itza from Cancun showcase some of the best attractions that the Yucatan has to offer. If you want to see and learn a lot in a short space of time, these are the tours for you. 

#11 Chichen Itza, Coba + Cenote Saamal 

Coba Ruins can be combined with visiting Chichen Itza from Cancun.

This highly rated 12-hour tour packs a lot into one day and is a must-do tour for history lovers. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and sets a maximum number of 18 passengers. 

For the small group size and the itinerary on offer, this tour is good value for money. 

The first stop of the day is Chichen Itza, where you will take a guided tour which will show you the highlights of the UNESCO site. You will have approximately 1.5 hours to explore.

You will then drive to Cenote Saamal, one of the most beautiful cenotes in the Yucatan region. Descend the wooden steps to the water at the bottom of the open cenote to enjoy swimming, jumping and diving for one hour. 

In the afternoon, you will visit the Mayan ruins at Coba, much of which remains to be excavated from the jungle. Coba is best known as the home of the 42-metre-high Ixmoja, the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan. 

After a guided tour and some free time to explore on your own, you will be whisked back to your hotel. 

#12 Chichen Itza, Ek Balam + Cenote Saamal 

Ek Balam can be combines with visiting Chichen Itza from Cancun.

This 12-hour tour has an early 5 am start so you can beat the crowds at Chichen Itza. It has a varied and interesting itinerary and allows a good amount of time in each location. 

The tour has a maximum group number of 20 and allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. 

The tour starts at Ek Balam Village, where you will have a guided tour plus free time to explore on your own. You will spend around 1.5 hours on site. 

You will then travel to Chichen Itza for a three-hour visit before travelling to the Hotel Real del Mayab to enjoy a freshly cooked Mexican-style buffet lunch. 

After lunch, you will drive to Cenote Saamal to spend one-hour swimming and relaxing in this popular and picturesque location before returning to your hotel or meeting point. 

Visiting Chichen Itza From Cancun Independently

Chichen Itza tours from Cancun.

If you are wondering how to visit Chichen Itza without taking a tour, there are several options. 

You can catch a public bus run by ADO from the Cancun central bus station to Valladolid , from where you can grab a local colectivo bus to the Chichen Itza site. There are also a few ADO buses per day that offer direct service, but the bus schedule may not be the most convenient. Generally, the ride is cheap, but it will be very hard to make a round trip in one day.

If you prefer opting out of the tour option, we recommend self-driving to Chichen Itza. The driving route is one of Yucatan’s major roads, so the road is in good condition with good signage. The drive to Chichen Itza from Cancun will take around 2.5 hours. 

🚗 We always rent a car with Discover Cars when we travel in Mexico. They have proved reliable with accurate descriptions of the vehicles for rent. Discover Cars are also cost-effective and have no hidden fees or charges. 

It is possible to take a taxi to Chichen Itza from Cancun, but you can expect to pay high prices. 

Can i drive in Mexico with US license?

Renting A Car In Cancun?

In this blog post, we will tell you how easy it is to rent a car in Tulum, covering everything from prices, rental conditions, insurance requirements, tips for driving in Mexico, and so much more.

Tips For Visiting Chichen Itza

chichen itza

Whether you join one of the Chichen Itza tours from Cancun or visit the site independently, there are certain things you do and bring to help make your visit the best it can be. 

✔️Protect from the heat

Chichen Itza is a large exposed site, and there is very little shade or cover from the sun. It is essential to wear loose-fitting cotton clothes and a wide-brim sun hat that gives good head and neck coverage.

Make sure you apply a high-factor sunscreen before visiting and reapply if you are spending a long time on site. Try to get some shade when you can to recharge for more sightseeing. 

✔️Wear comfortable shoes

You will inevitably do a lot of walking at Chichen Itza, so wearing well-fitting, comfortable shoes is a must. The ground can be uneven underfoot, so any shoe with a heel is not a good idea. 

We would also advise wearing closed-toe shoes or good-gripping sandals rather than flip-flops. Flip flops can catch easily and have no grip, so are not safe for walking on slippery stones on the site. 

✔️Bring plenty of water

The sun and exposed site, coupled with lots of walking, means that it is essential to stay hydrated when visiting Chichen Itza. If you are travelling with children, keep an eye on their water intake. 

Make sure you bring plenty of water per person. It is also a good idea to pack a couple of rehydration sachets or something sweet, like concentrated fruit juice, to add to one of your water bottles just in case you need a sugar boost. 

Ideally, bring water in a reusable bottle to avoid adding to the single-use plastic waste at Chichen Itza. 

✔️Take a guided tour

Chichen Itza is an incredible site, but you will only gain so much from an information board or a guidebook. 

To really get the most out of your visit and to learn about the history and culture of the ancient Mayans, you will need to take a guided tour. A tour guide can delve into the stories and myths surrounding Chichen Itza and bring the ruins and the people who once lived there back to life. 

Trust us, you will learn and enjoy Chichen Itza a lot more with the services of a professional guide. If you are not visiting with one of the Chichen Itza tours from Cancun, there will be official guides available for hire just inside the entrance to Chichen Itza. 

✔️Tripods, drones & loudspeakers are not allowed

Photography and video is permitted inside Chichen Itza, but you are not allowed to bring camera tripods without a pre-arranged (and costly) permit. Even small pack-away tripods are forbidden. 

Drones are also not allowed in Chichen Itza, so don’t expect to be able to take Insta-worthy aerial shots of the site. There are a lot of security personnel monitoring photography and drone usage, so leave your drone and tripod at your hotel. If you bring them with you, you quill be required to leave them in a locker.

Chichen Itza Tours From Cancun: FAQ

excursion chichen itza cancun

How much does it cost to go to Chichen Itza from Cancun?

The cost of Chichen Itza tours from Cancun varies according to the tour you choose. Tours start from as little as £45  / $53 per person for short-duration tours with a large group. 

You can expect to pay well over £100 / $125 per person for the best private tours to Chichen Itza from Cancun. 

If you are wondering how to get to Chichen Itza on a budget, it will be cheaper to take the bus to Chichen Itza from Cancun. A round-trip ticket costs around £23 / $28. 

You will then need to pay the Chichen Itza entrance fee, which is currently $614 MXN / £28 / $35. A ticket to the Kukulkan light, sound and laser show which takes place after hours at 7 pm, costs $708 MXN / £32 / $40. 

Is it safe to take a tour from Cancun to Chichen Itza?

Taking a tour is probably one of the safest and easiest ways to travel from Cancun to Chichen Itza ruins. You will not have to tackle public transport or navigate unfamiliar roads by self-driving. 

However, it pays to do your research. Always know what is, and what is not included in the tour, how long you will spend at each site and always, and always read recent reviews to check if the tour is suitable and safe, particularly if you are a solo traveller. 

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

If you are wondering how much of your day will be spent travelling and how far Chichen Itza is from Cancun, the distance between the two locations is approximately 129 miles or 207 kilometres. 

Driving to Chichen Itza from Cancun will take between 2 and 2.5 hours each way. 

Do you need to book in advance for Chichen Itza?

If you want to book one of the Chichen Itza tours Cancun has to offer, you will need to book in advance to secure the tour you want, especially if you are travelling in peak season. 

If you are self-driving or visiting Chichen Itza from Cancun independently, you do not need to book entrance tickets in advance, but you need to be prepared to queue on the day to get your tickets and to enter.

For peace of mind and to avoid long queues, it is also possible to buy tickets online in advance, including ‘skip the line’ tickets with online sellers such as Viator. 

Is Chichen Itza or Tulum better?

Comparing the two sites is difficult as both ancient sites are unique and well worth visiting if you have time to do both. 

Chichen Itza is a larger site with more buildings and structures to explore. However, Tulum, although smaller, has an idyllic and atmospheric coastal setting. 

We would advise making the time to visit both sites, but if you can only choose one, we would choose the UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza over Tulum. 

Can I visit Chichen Itza on my own?

It is possible to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun on your own –  though it is always easier and less stressful to join a tour.

If you are not self-driving, you can catch the Cancun to Chichen Itza bus. This public ADO bus departs from Cancun’s central bus station and drops passengers right outside the entrance to Chichen Itza.  

Departures start around 8 – 9 am, so unfortunately, you will arrive at Chichen Itza at the same time as all the other tour buses. You will also be limited as to how long you can stay on-site as you will have to follow the bus schedule to catch your return bus. 

The bus is easy and cheap, and at around £23 / $30 per person for a return trip, it is a great option for solo travellers or travellers on a budget.

Once inside Chichen Itza, you can keep costs down by exploring on your own with a guide book but to fully appreciate the history and culture you are seeing, we recommend hiring a private, official guide from just inside the entrance to Chichen Itza. 

What is the best day to visit Chichen Itza?

If you are a Mexican resident or a foreigner with Mexican residency, the best day to visit Chichen Itza is on a Sunday, as you will receive free entry. 

For everyone else, any day of the week is a good day to visit Chichen Itza. However, we would recommend avoiding national holidays, school holidays or weekends if you can, as these will be the busiest times at Chichen Itza.

If possible, try to visit during the dry season from November to April, as you will avoid rain or extreme summer heat and humidity. However, try to avoid the peak visitor months of December and January if you don’t like sharing your tourist attraction with huge crowds.  

Whichever day or time of year you choose to visit Chichen Itza, try to visit as early in the day as you can. Chichen Itza’s hours are from 8 am to 5 pm seven days a week, with the last entry at 4 pm. 

If you can, arrive before 8 am and join the already forming queue. Your early start will be rewarded with two hours of a quieter Chichen Itza before the majority of tour buses arrive. 

Can you climb to the top of the Chichen Itza Pyramid?

Chichen Itza’s largest pyramid is the mighty Kukulkan Pyramid which stands at an impressive 91 feet / 28 metres tall. 

Unfortunately, visitors are no longer allowed to climb the pyramid’s impossibly steep stone steps. Millions of people have climbed the steps, which over time, have become worn and smooth, plus increasingly slippery and dangerous. 

After a visitor tragically slipped and died whilst climbing the pyramid in 2006, Mexican authorities prohibited visitors from climbing Kukulkan. This rule is unlikely to change.

How long is the walk in Chichen Itza?

The walk in Chichen Itza is as long or as short as you want it to be but to fully explore the sit, we recommend staying for between 2 – 3 hours (or ideally four hours if you want to see everything at a comfortable pace).

Chichen Itza Tours From Cancun Final Word

Visiting Chichen Itza is a must-do activity if you are visiting Cancun or the Yucatan peninsula. 

It is a unique, fascinating and memorable location which allows you to learn about Mayan history and culture, which in turn, will help you understand modern Mexico. 

How to get to Chichen Itza from Cancun is up to you, but if you want an easy, stress-free trip with the opportunity to learn or visit other amazing locations in the region, book one of the fantastic tours featured in this post. 

You won’t regret visiting Chichen Itza – but we guarantee you will regret not visiting it. 

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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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excursion chichen itza cancun

The 7 Best Chichén Itzá & Cenote Tours in Cancun

Enjoy the history and beauty of chichén itzá and the cenotes with one of these tours.

Chichen Itza is one of the most interesting spots in the world, and it’s no question why it draws so many tourists each year.

Once the most populous city in the whole Yucatan peninsula, in present-day it remains an active archaeological site and home to some of the most famous Mayan ruins in the world.

The Xtoloc cenote nearby played a huge role in how prominent the city was, and is another point of interest for visitors.

We’ve taken more tours than you can imagine to bring you the best Chichen Itza and Cenote Tours in Cancun! Don’t waste your time on sub-par tours; we have those that you’ll want to take over and over again!

Best Chichén Itzá & Cenote Tours in Cancun

Quick answer: the 7 best rated chichen itza & cenote tours in cancun.

  • Cancún Chichén Itzá & Cenote Maya Full-Day Tour
  • Chichen Itza, Coba and Ik-Kil Cenote: Private Tour
  • Cancún Classic Chichen Itza Day Tour with Lunch
  • Chichén Itzá: Hubiku Cenote & Valladolid Tour
  • Chichen Itzá Premium Tour From Playa del Carmen or Cancun
  • Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Private Tour with Lunch
  • Chichen Itza Full-Day Extended Tour from Cancun

Be sure to see our reviews of Cancun Snorkeling Tours and Tulum Mayan Ruins Tours .

Chichen Itza & Cenote Tours Reviews

1. cancún chichén itzá & cenote maya full-day tour.

  • Duration: 12 hours
  • Departure: Hotel pickup included
  • Departure Time:  Between 6 and 7:30 am
  • Includes: Guided tour of Chichen Itza, admission to Chichen Itza and Cenote Maya Native Park, equipment required for activities, lockers, water and continental breakfast on board, buffet lunch, roundtrip transportation

If you really want to get to know Chichen Itza inside and out, we highly recommend going on an all-day tour. The Cancun Chichen Itza & Cenote Maya Full-Day Tour is one of the best adventures out there, covering pretty much everything any tourist would like to do in the area.

Starting off early in the morning, you and your group will arrive before anyone else so you get all the cool spots to yourself!

With a hotel pickup and drop-off, you don’t have to worry about leaving early to meet with your guides. They make it as convenient as possible for you, and the bilingual guides are very personable and entertaining.

Keep in mind that you will have around a 3-hour journey to Chichen Itza if you’re staying in the Riviera Maya or Cancun. Once you arrive at around 9:30am, you’ll kick off the experience with an over 2-hour tour of the archaeological site.

Just seeing it is breathtaking, and it’s hard to wrap your head around so much history. However, the guides do an incredible job of teaching you all about what “El Castillo” was used for, what it was like living there, and why it is a holy site.

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Afterward, you’ll arrive at the Cenote Maya Native Park around 1:30pm and spend 2.5 hours here. The cenote really looks like something from another planet, and you’ll access it by heading underground by tunnel or large, wooden staircase!

As the biggest vaulted cenote in the whole peninsula, there is a slack line and “Tarzan vines” inside to make for a fun time. The jewel-green water and interesting geological formations also mean that there are many beautiful photos to be taken here.

Feel free to swim, dive, rappel, or simply take it all in. You’ll be able to enjoy a traditional menu from the area, complete with handmade tortillas!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. chichen itza, coba and ik-kil cenote: private tour.

  • Departure Time: Early morning

This is yet another full-day tour that offers pickup at all hotels/vacation rentals within the entire Riviera Maya area! Be prepared to wake up early so you can make the most of your adventure! You’ll get to visit all kinds of wonders on the Chichen Itza, Coba, and Ik-Kil Cenote Private Tour !

After a couple hours of traveling, you’ll arrive at Chichen Itza before the crowds start arriving. This holy spot features incredible Mayan ruins, including the Chichen Itza Pyramid or “El Castillo”.

The 98-foot-tall pyramid is grandiose, to the point where it’s almost intimidating. There are many other places around that you’ll learn about, as well.

After, you’ll head over to Ik-Kil Cenote which was once used by the Mayans as a location for human sacrifice to their rain god, Chaac. Measuring 85 feet deep, it’s incredibly profound and perfect for taking a dive in!

This cenote features jumping platforms, ladders to get in and out of easily, and is clearly convenient for visitors. You’ll notice that there is a restaurant nearby as well, where you’ll have a delicious Mexican buffet lunch.

This is a great time to be able to try all kinds of traditional dishes without ordering an entire plate to see what you like.

After you’re refueled, you’ll head onto Coba, which also sports its own impressive archaeological site! In our experience, it was a much quieter place with fewer tourists. You can even climb the massive pyramid and look out over the lush jungle that surrounds the area!

Don’t be surprised if you see some jungle critters like monkeys or tropical birds! As Coba is not quite as developed for tourism yet as say Tulum or Cancun, there’s a lot of walking involved. With this tour however, it includes a pedicab rental so you get around in comfort.

3. Cancún Classic Chichen Itza Day Tour with Lunch

  • Duration: 11 hours
  • Includes: Round-trip transportation, admission to a sacred Mayan cenote, stop at a handcraft shop, buffet lunch at Chichen Itza, certified English-speaking tour guide

Next up is the Cancun Classic Chichen Itza Day Tour with Lunch , which is just slightly shorter than the previous 2 tours, at 11 hours. You’ll travel by comfortable bus there and back, with air conditioning and large windows so you have excellent views the entire time.

The guides are incredibly professional and informative, so you’re bound to see and learn a lot! Founded in 514 AD, Chichen Itza has just recently been considered as one of the new 7 Wonders of the World and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

The tour does include a hotel pickup and drop-off from Cancun, so you don’t have to worry about expensive taxis or anything like that.

After a couple of hours in the bus, you’ll get to the Cenote Ik-Kil, which is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and breathe in some fresh air. You’ll descend down into where the cenote lies through a wide, wooden staircase that we felt was great for most ages.

Once you get down to the deep turquoise waters, you’ll get to decide if you’d like to take a dip or simply relax on the side and take it all in.

Regardless of if you decide to go swimming or not, you’re sure to work up an appetite at this stop. Appropriately, the next stop will be at a Mexican lunch buffet with all kinds of fresh salads, veggies, chicken, fish, and many regional dishes.

As you enjoy the food, you’ll get to be a spectator to a regional dance performance, as well! If you’d like, you can also check out the shop filled with handcrafted art that makes for a perfect gift!

After you’re done with shopping, you and your group will head out to the archaeological site. Spend 1.5 hours with your professional guide who will teach you all about the Mayan people and what happened in this iconic place throughout history. After your educational tour, you’ll have some time on your own to explore around.

4. Chichén Itzá: Hubiku Cenote & Valladolid Tour

  • Duration: 10 hours
  • Departure Time:  8am
  • Includes: Professional bilingual guide, certified guided tour of Chichen Itza, Cenote Hubiku, and Valladolid, lunch and drinks at restaurant in Hubiku, roundtrip bus transportation, service aide on the bus during tour, hotel pickup

The Chichen Itza Hubiku Cenote and Valladolid Tour is a wonderful selection if you’re someone who likes having more freedom when it comes to exploring. Sometimes those locked-in itineraries don’t show you everything you want to see.

This tour will show you around Chichen Itza and the Cenote Hubiku, but you decide how you want to experience it. Your trip includes a hotel pickup and drop-off if you’re staying in Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum.

Your guides will make you feel welcome right away, and you’ll immediately head out to the lush jungles surrounding the Hubiku cenote. This cenote lies about 20 minutes from Chichen Itza and is the perfect way to kick off the tour.

With a perfectly round shape, limestone structures, and light-letting ceiling, it’s surely unlike anything else you’ve ever seen. Meaning “nest of iguanas”, you may just come across some of the scaly creatures, too!

Afterward, you’ll stop for a traditional buffet lunch full of different Mayan dishes! Be prepared to taste various “tipico” dishes full of flavor before driving to Chichen Itza archaeological site where you will learn all about the Mayan people from around 500AD until present-day. This site is home to various ruins and the famous temple, “El Castillo”.

After Chichen Itza, you’ll head over to Valladolid, which is a hidden gem deep in the Yucatan jungle. This colonial city features colorful homes, convents, baroque cathedrals, and much more. This city features incredible food, handcrafted designs, friendly locals, and photogenic spots at every turn.

5. Chichen Itzá Premium Tour From Playa del Carmen or Cancun

  • Departure Time: Between 6-7:30 am
  • Includes:  Hotel pickup and drop-off, local guide, entrance fees, lunchbox, bottled water, beer on board the bus

If you’re ready to pack in as much as possible, check out the Chichen Itza Premium Tour from Playa del Carmen or Cancun ! This day will be full of learning, exploring, and obviously a ton of fun! With an air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup/drop-off, you’ll be experiencing the Caribbean in the most comfortable way possible.

You and the rest of your group will head to Chichen Itza, but before you’ll make a stop at the ecotourism center of Suytun. Here, you’ll see the Cenote Suytun, which once you descend you’ll be shocked by how magnificent it is!

It’s like some kind of Mayan underworld, which was once used for many different sacred ceremonies. You can choose to take a dip in it if you’d like, or simply admire from dry land.

Once you board again, you’ll be offered a tasty lunchbox consisting of a sandwich, fruit, fresh juice, and a dessert. Oh, they also offer bottled water and beer on the bus, which makes it that much better!

Make sure you refuel, because you’ll soon arrive to Chichen Itza, where you’ll be taken on a guided tour from a professional, bilingual guide. Learn all about ancient Maya civilization and then explore on your own. Just make sure you put on some comfy sneakers, because quite a bit of walking is involved here!

Next up, you’ll head over to the colonial town of Valladolid, which is painted with brightly-colored homes and restaurants, Baroque-style cathedrals, and much more. Once again, the guide will offer interesting facts and anecdotes about the area.

6. Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Private Tour with Lunch

  • Includes:  Hotel pick-up and drop off, professional guide, entrance fees, lunch, Pedicab rental in Coba, bottled water in car

If Tulum is also one of the places at the top of your Caribbean vacation list, then you’ll love our next tour. The Chichen Itza, Coba, and Tulum Private Tour with Lunch will give you an in-depth history lesson in the Mayan culture and how they used the unique architecture you’ll come across.

This 12-hour tour is one of the best ways to spend an entire day exploring and learning! You do have a hotel pickup and drop-off included, though with this tour you’ll be traveling by car: usually a Mercedes sedan that we found to be comfortable.

The tour guides are very professional and knowledgeable, not to mention speak both English and Spanish fluently. This tour will start by going to Chichen Itza, where your guide will tell you all about the history of the area and why the city fell.

The main monuments are unreal, and make you wonder how human beings were able to construct such masterpieces.

The Kukulkan pyramid temple and the columns at the Temple of a Thousand Warriors are some of the most popular places for photos, while El Caracol, “ The Snail ”, Observatory is another can’t-miss attraction.

It features a spiral staircase inside the tower which was once used by the Mayas to see the sky above the thick jungles. The Mayan people were very knowledgeable in astronomy, and these structures help them see the cosmos more closely.

You’ll then head to take a refreshing trip to the Ik-Kil cenote. You can choose to dive, dip, or simply observe here. By this time, you’re probably quite hungry, so you’ll head over to a buffet lunch full of “platos tipicos” before visiting the Lost City of Coba.

Once at Coba, you’ll explore all around this authentic city by pedicab, which will take you to the tallest pyramid temple on the Yucatan peninsula. This is one you can actually climb up if you’d like (we highly recommend it!), offering views over the entire rainforest!

After this, you’ll go check out the archaeological site of Tulum. Known for stunning cliffside views over the clear, turquoise waters of the Caribbean, you’ll surely enjoy this city. There are also notable Mayan ruins located here, which your guide will tell you all about.

7. Chichen Itza Full-Day Extended Tour from Cancun

  • Includes:  Entrance to Chichen Itza, entrance to cenote, buffet lunch and 1 alcoholic drink, 5 drinks onboard (bottled water, beer, or soda), panoramic visit to Valladolid, certified guide at Chichen Itza

Starting off with a punctual pickup from your hotel, this tour is one of the most comfortable and convenient ways of seeing the Yucatan.

The Chichen Itza Full-Day Extended Tour from Cancun is a 12-hour tour that covers some of the most historical locations in all of the country. Including soft drinks and beer onboard, they make sure to keep you feeling great and well-hydrated!

Once picked up from your hotel, you’ll head out in an air-conditioned, luxe coach until you get to a delicious restaurant en route to Chichen Itza. This breakfast is a traditional one, that will already give you insight into the local culture! Once you arrive at Chichen Itza, it’ll be like stepping into another world.

You’ll learn all about Mayan culture and history, and will see the Kukulcan Pyramid, “ La Piramide ”, along with the Temple of Warriors. In this plaza, you’ll also come across various other important structures once used for civic and religious purposes.

After the guided tour portion, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own. After learning so much, it’s great to be able to go take a look at what interests you most.

After boarding the coach again, you’ll go over to the Ik-kil cenote and have the chance to swim in the blue underground waters. Here, they’ll also teach you about what they were used for by the Mayas and why they are still considered sacred places.

At walking and swimming around, your stomach will surely start growling again, so you and your group will head to another local restaurant. After trying some local dishes, you’ll head over to a comprehensive tour of the colonial city of Vallodolid.

Travel Guide to Cancun

When to visit cancun, getting around cancun, staying safe in cancun, what to pack for your trip, it’s time to plan your trip.

Going to Cancun, even if you can only go for a long holiday weekend, should be something on everyone’s bucket list. There’s beaches to walk at sunset, attractions to visit, and even if you want to spend a whole day of relaxation at your all-inclusive hotel there will be plenty to do in the form of spa treatments and even a 9am tee time.

Oh, and don’t forget to book your snorkeling tour!

However, there are some things you should know about vacationing in Cancun before you book your trip, such as when to go, what you should be packing, and how you will be getting around the area. Let’s explore a bit of Cancun before you book your trip, shall we?

If you are looking to spend less on your trip to Cancun, you could always plan to go in the off-season. However, you risk the chance of the weather becoming a problem. It’s the off-season for a reason. Mid-December to March typically has the best weather, as well as the highest costs.

If you want to avoid the biggest crowds and the biggest bill, avoid Spring break season when college students flood the area. From May to December, you will run into the highest temps as well as unpredictable rains. Early December and the whole month of April are usually good compromises for both cost and weather.

Public transportation is actually very good in Cancun. It’s clean. It usually runs on time as long as the weather isn’t a problem and the crowds aren’t heavy like during Spring break.

And, you will find that it will usually be able to take you to all of the local area attractions that you will want to visit without any issues. If you are looking to cut costs, this is definitely one place you can do it.

Don’t spend the extra money on a rental car and worry more about packing as much fun into every day you are there as possible.

Like at any beach, currents and undertows can be dangerous. If you don’t know what to watch for with the tides or how to get yourself out of a sticky situation in the water, it’s best to stay out of deeper waters.

Also, you should learn what the flags by the lifeguard towers mean. If you don’t know, be sure to ask a lifeguard to teach you beach safety. Many hotels will also have brochures about how to stay safe on the beaches.

If you go out at night – to restaurants, bars, or especially nightclubs – it is important to keep your wits about you. This is important while traveling to any tourist destination. Keep the flashy jewelry and cameras at the hotel room. Always have identification on you. And don’t drink so much that you can’t safely get back to your hotel.

You will be getting wet quite often, whether at the beach or on your snorkeling tour, and you might end up having to bring back wet clothes. Pack a few plastic bags that can tie or zip closed so that your other clothes or your suitcase doesn’t get wet.

Customs isn’t going to like seeing a suitcase that is leaking! While walking around shopping or going to the beach, you will want a tote bag, either canvas or mesh, to carry sunscreen, sandals, etc. so don’t forget to bring a beach bag.

While walking around Mayan ruins or doing some souvenir shopping, you will want walking shoes and if you aren’t traveling in them, make sure to pack them along with sandals fit for the beach. Also, be sure to pack a carry-on that will make it through both the US airport as well as the Mexican airport in Cancun. You will be going both ways.

If you plan on doing much shopping, you might want to pack an extra duffel for the extras that you will be purchasing to bring home with you. Plus, it’s inevitable that not everything fits back into the suitcase the way you packed it in the first time, so extra space might be handy.

Now that you have the low down on vacationing in Cancun and you know which snorkeling tour you’d like to take with the family, it’s time to book your flights, arrange your snorkeling adventure and start packing!

I hope this guide was helpful for finding the best Cancun Chichén Itzá tours to fit your needs. If you want to comment or recommend a tour I didn’t include, please use my contact form to get in touch.

Remember; be safe, and stay within your limits and most of all enjoy your time in Cancun!

Tour Guides

The Cancún Chichén Itzá & Cenote Maya Full-Day Tour is our Editor's Choice for the best tour.

Robert Baker

Related articles, 🤿 the 5 best cancun snorkel tours [2024 reviews], 🤿 the 5 best cozumel snorkel tours [2024 reviews], 🐋 the 5 best whale watching tours in cabo san lucas [2024 reviews], the 5 best cabo san lucas atv tours [2024 reviews].

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Xichén Tours are the best option to discover the mythical city of Chichén Itzá

The most complete tours to the archaeological sites of the Yucatan Peninsula

Xichén is the best alternative to get to know the cultural and historical greatness of Quintana Roo and Yucatán. Explore Chichén Itzá , Cobá, and Tulum in the company of expert guides who will take you to discover the secrets of one of the most enigmatic cultures.

In the Chichén Itzá Tour , you will be amazed by the majesty of the Pyramid of Kukulcán. You will hear the mythical song of the quetzal at the Castle. During your tour, you will admire the architectural precision of the ancestral culture that once inhabited the region. And, of course, you will capture the most original pictures in this Wonder of the Modern World.

Tulum is the only walled city that overlooks the Caribbean Sea, and it will astonish you with its architectural marvels and paradisiacal surroundings. In Cobá, you'll venture into the Riviera Maya's jungle to discover the Yucatan Peninsula's tallest pyramid.

Xichén Tours offer the comfort and safety of modern panoramic buses, meals, entrance fees to the archaeological sites, and visits to beautiful cenotes near Valladolid. Additionally, they are the only tours where you can combine visits to two archaeological sites or add one of the Xcaret or Xel-Há parks. Are you ready for this expedition?

Choose a great tour to the most famous archaeological zones in the Mexican Caribbean

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Xichén Deluxe Tour

An awesome Chichén Itzá tour with a buffet lunch at the beautiful Casona de Valladolid.

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Xichén Clásico Tour

Enjoy Chichén Itzá on a guided tour and swim in a gorgeous nearby cenote.

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Discover the Tulum archaeological zone and spend the afternoon at Xel-Há park.

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Tulum - Cobá

Two archaeological sites on the same day. Tour astounding places with a certified guide.

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Get into the jungle to enter Cobá and then spend some hours at Xel-Há park.

In package is alwayes better! Improve your Xichén experience

Xichén Deluxe | Parques y Tours en Cancún y Riviera Maya

Xichén Deluxe + Xcaret

The best of Mexico in a package! Visit Chichén Itzá and the best park in the world.

Xichén Deluxe | Parques y Tours en Cancún y Riviera Maya

Xichén Deluxe + Xel-Há

Get delighted in an all-inclusive park and discover Chichén Itzá on a single package.

Xichén Deluxe | Parques y Tours en Cancún y Riviera Maya

Xichén Deluxe + Xoximilco

Live Mexico to its best at a trajinera in Xoximilco and visiting Chichén Itzá.

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Xichén Deluxe + Xenotes

Combine a tour by four astounding cenotes with a Chichén Itzá tour.

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Xichén Deluxe + Cobá-Tulum

Discover the three main archaeological sites in the Riviera Maya on one package.

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Chichen Itza

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Chichen itza tours.

Enjoy the best Chichen Itza Tours to visit this Wonder of the World. Chichen Itza was named one of the 7 Wonders of the World in 2007, but long before that it was pretty well known for travelers visiting Cancun, Riviera Maya and the Yucatan Peninsula.

You can visit Chichen Itza with a whole range of tours that go from the “Classic Chichen Itza Tour” which is really complete, to the Chichen Itza Tour Deluxe that will pamper you with premium drinks along the ride as well as on the buffet meal. But you can also book the Private or Luxury Chichen Itza Tour if you wish to go at your own pace.

Chichen Itza Tour Classic

This is the classic Chichen Itza Tour and it’s perfect for a journey to visit the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza.

Chichen Itza Tour Plus

Enjoy the perks of the regular Chichen Itza Tour, Plus some extra amenities like unlimited drinks onboard the bus.

Chichen Itza Tour Deluxe

This is a great tour for you. The Chichen Itza Deluxe Tour has all the benefits of the Plus tour, but in addition you get a Box lunch, Premium Drinks onboard the bus and an Umbrella at Chichen Itza.

Chichen Itza Tour Diamante

This Chichen Itza Tour will provide you with all the perks of a Chichen Itza Tour Diamante, including drinks and other amenities.

Private Chichen Itza Tour

Visit Chichen Itza at your own pace. With the Private Chichen Itza Tour you can visit the Mayan Ruins whenever you want and how you want to… Go to Chichen Itza earlier than everyone, or later.

Luxury Chichen Itza Tour

Enjoy the perks of traveling in Luxury. If you want to get in style to Chichen Itza, you must book this tour. Get to Chichen Itza from Cancun or the Riviera Maya in a Suburban vehicle with refreshing amenities on the ride.

Premium Chichen Itza Tour

Make your trip to Chichen Itza in style spending a whole day with the people you care about traveling in a premium vehicle.

Exploring Chichen Itza with a certified tour guide.

CHICHEN ITZA TOUR GUIDE

Immerse yourself in the mysteries of Chichen Itza with our expert tour guides. Explore the iconic pyramids, temples, and cenotes of this ancient Maya city.

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Chichen Itza Tours in Cancun

The Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itzá is the most popular tour among visitors to Cancun, that is why we have a large number of tours with different combinations and for all budgets. Do consider that the journey from Cancun to Chichen Itzá is 3 hours, so the tours last approximately 10 to 12 hours. Despite this distance, we guarantee that you will not regret visiting this wonder of the world.

Chichen Itza Sky Luxury Cruiser Tour

Chichen Itza Sky Luxury Cruiser Tour

For those wishing to visit the world wonder of Chichen Itza with the ultimate in comfort and style, this all inclusive tour will meet your expectations.

Departs from: Cancun

Duration: Full day (8:00 am to 7:00 pm)

Chichen Itza Private Tour

Chichen Itza Private Tour

Visit the amazing Chichen Itza Ruins on a personalized private tour from Cancun and Riviera Maya. Discover one of the most amazing places in the world without itineraries.

Departs from: Cancun and Riviera Maya

Duration: 10 hours approx.

Chichen Itza Combos Tour

Chichen Itza Combos

Visit the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza and another top attraction like Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor and Xavage and obtain an additional 20% off.

Duration: All day tours

Chichen Itza Mayan Cuisine Tour

Chichen Itza Mayan Cuisine

On this tour we offer a cultural alternative as much fun to visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World. We will learn about the Mayan culture through its typical food and beverages and we will cool off at one of the most beautiful cenotes in the area.

Duration: 11 hours (approx.)

Xcaret and Chichen Itza Tour

Xcaret and Chichen Itza

This package provides an affordable alternative to visit 2 of the most popular attractions for Cancun and Riviera Maya visitors, Xcaret EcoPark and The Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza.

Duration: 11-12 hrs. approx

Chichen Itza Deluxe Tour

Chichen Itza Deluxe Tour

For those wishing to visit the archaeological site of Chichen Itza with style and comfort this tour is a great option. We will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel in Cancun and Playa del Carmen from 7 AM and 8 AM.

Departs from: Cancun and Playa del Carmen

Duration: 11-12 hrs.

Xichen Clasico Tour

Xichen Clasico Tour

Discover why Chichen Itza is a World Heritage Site and a Wonder of the World. We will take a guided tour of the ruins site and learn about the fascinating world of the Mayas.

Chichen Itza Express Tour

Chichen Itza Express Tour

Perfect for travelers seeking a half-day adventure, our Chichen Itza Express tour offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of this renowned Mayan site without the need for a full-day commitment.

Duration: 9 hours approx.

Chichen Itza Regular Tour

Chichen Itza Regular Tour

Don't miss the opportunity to visit Chichen Itza during your Cancun vacations; the ancient capital of the Mayan Empire and learn why it has been designated one of the modern wonders of the world.

Duration: 11-12 hours approx.

Xichen Deluxe Tour

Xichen Deluxe Tour

A fascinating tour to the sacred city of the Mayan culture. This is an exclusive guided tour to the archaeological site of Chichen Itza and the colonial city of Valladolid.

Duration: Full day (7:30 am to 7:30 pm)

Chichen Itza and Cenote Maya Tour

Chichen Itza and Cenote Maya Tour

Visit in one excursion two spectacular attractions full of culture and magic, Chichen Itza and Cenote Maya will make you live an exciting and fun trip where history and natural beauty come together to surprise you.

Departs from: Temporarily unavailable

Duration: 12 hours approx.

Chichen Itza Time Masters  Tour

Chichen Itza Time Masters

Visit the world famous archaeological zone Chichen itza, discover the mystery of its emblematic temples, refresh yourself swimming in a typical sacred cenotes, you will also know the beautiful colonial city of Valladolid a magical town in Yucatan.

Duration: 10-11 hours approximately

Chichen Itza Light and Sound Tour

Chichen Itza Light and Sound

Get immerse in the Mayan heaven full of moonlight, music, special light effects and mysticism and enjoy Chichen itza at night.

Duration: From 11:00 am to 10:00 pm

How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza: Drive, Tour & Bus

The ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza are one of the most spectacular sights in Mexico, and there are a bunch of easy ways to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza on a day trip. This place was once one of the biggest and most important cities for the Mayan civilization.

You can get from Cancun to Chichen Itza by booking a tour , driving yourself in a rental car , or taking the ADO public bus. In this travel guide, I’ll explain how to use each of these transport options, as well as their pros and cons.

Overall, it’s not very complicated to visit this wonder of the world on a day trip from any of the tourist towns in the Yucatan peninsula, and it’s also pretty budget friendly, so you should definitely add it to your Mexico to do list!

Table of Contents show 1) Where To Stay In Cancun 2) Where is Chichen Itza? 3) How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza 4) • Join A Group Tour 5) • Book A Private Tour 6) • Rent A Car & Drive Yourself 7) • Take The ADO Public Bus 8) Cancun To Chichen Itza FAQ 9) More Cancun Tours 10) Cancun Hotels

Where To Stay In Cancun

Wyndham Alltra

Wyndham Alltra

Royal UNO

Hotel Bonampak

Emporio Cancun

Emporio Cancun

Where is Chichen Itza?

First things first — where is Chichen Itza located in Mexico?

Chichen Itza is located in the middle of the Mexican state of Yucatan, and the distance from Cancun to Chichen Itza is about 200 kilometers (125 miles), so it can be reached in 2 or 3 hours of driving.

The Chichen Itza ruins are located near the 16th century city of Valladolid, as well as many nice cenotes (natural sinkholes) to swim in, so there are lots of other great things to see in the area near the ruins.  

How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza

• join a group tour.

One of the cheapest and easiest ways to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza is by joining a group tour with other travelers, which you can book online or arrange with your Cancun hotel when you arrive in Mexico.

Chichen Itza tours are very popular, so there are many companies offering them every day of the week. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in the morning, driven by van or bus to Chichen Itza, and then given a guided tour of the ruins.

We used one of these tours ourselves and had a great experience. There are even early morning tours where you can beat the crowds and be one of the first people to enter the Chichen Itza ruins at the start of the day.

Oftentimes these group tours from Cancun to Chichen Itza also include other great sights of the Yucatan peninsula, like the Coba ruins, Tulum, Valladolid, and a swim at one or two of the many scenic cenotes in the area. These tours usually include a buffet lunch and hotel pickup / drop-off as well.

The only downside of a group tour is that you have a fixed itinerary, so you usually only get to spend about an hour or less in each location you visit on the tour. Personally, we could have stayed a bit longer, but for most people this is probably plenty of time. We tend to take a lot of photos.

In an arrangement like this, you’re also sharing the tour with a bunch of other travelers, although we didn’t mind that since Chichen Itza is going to be crowded anyway, and the bus ride is a chance to meet other travelers.

Book Now: Chichen Itza Cancun Group Tour

• Book A Private Tour

If you want to visit Chichen Itza with a tour but don’t like the idea of joining a big group, there are also private tours and small group tours from Cancun to Chichen Itza departing every day of the week.

This option is more expensive than a group tour, but if you have the budget then it can be a great way to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza! This way you’ll have a private driver and a multilingual tour guide to transport you to each location and explain the history of the archaeological sites in detail.

Some of these private tours also include the nearby Mayan ruins of Coba and Tulum, with buffet lunch and hotel pickup / drop-off from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, or other locations in the Riviera Maya.

Book Now: Chichen Itza Cancun Private Tour

• Rent A Car & Drive Yourself

Renting a car and driving yourself is another common way to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza, and it’s fairly easy as far as Mexico goes.

This arrangement gives you the most freedom to plan your schedule, and it can be very cost effective if you’re traveling with friends or family, that way you can split the cost.

The journey by car from Cancun to Chichen Itza (or vice versa) takes about 2.5 hours of driving, and the roads are in great condition. The distance is about 200 kilometers (125 miles). You can use this map for navigating to Chichen Itza, although you’ll come to the parking area a little bit before you reach the actual ruins.

You’ll be driving on the 180D highway, which is a toll road. At the time of writing, the toll is about 400 pesos (~$21 USD) each way, and it can only be paid in Mexican pesos (no credit cards or US dollars), so make sure you bring enough cash.

Along the way, you can also stop at other sites like the 16th century city of Valladolid, and the many beautiful cenotes near Chichen Itza.

Remember to book your rental car through a reputable company and take photos of the whole vehicle body to avoid any possible rental damage scams.

For Chichen Itza, keep in mind you will still need entrance tickets to visit, even if you drive yourself. It’s a good idea to book your Chichen Itza entrance tickets online in advance, that way you can skip the line when you get there and spend more time touring the ruins.

Book Now: Rental Cars In Cancun

How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza Drive Tour Bus

Welcome to Chichen Itza! A wonder of the ancient world.

• Take The ADO Public Bus

One of the cheapest ways to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza (especially as a solo traveler) is by taking the ADO bus, which departs daily from downtown Cancun at 8:45 AM and returns to Cancun at 4:30 PM.

This can be a good option if you’re a solo traveler on a budget and don’t mind a bit of extra hassle in arranging your own transportation rather than taking a tour. You can get to the Cancun bus station by taking a quick taxi or Uber.

The bus journey from Cancun to Chichen Itza (or vice versa) takes about 3 hours of driving and costs about 250 pesos ($13 USD) for a one way ticket. You can buy these tickets online at the ADO Bus website , or in person at the bus station in Mexico.

The ADO buses are clean, with air conditioning and bathrooms. Just be careful and keep a good eye on your bags and any valuables, because theft is common in the buses and at the bus terminal. You’ll also want to show up to the bus station early, because the check-in process on a busy day can be tedious and messy.

The main drawback of going to Chichen Itza by bus is that you’ll have 5 hours to walk around at the archaeological site, which may be more time than most people need. One workaround for this is to instead take the bus from Cancun to Valladolid, where more departures are available, and then take a colectivo (shared van) to Chichen Itza.

If you still have extra time left over, you could also hire a local taxi to take you to one of the cenotes near Valladolid while you’re at it! That way you get to see more places in the same amount of time.

For Chichen Itza, keep in mind you will still need entrance tickets to visit, even if you go without a tour. It’s a good idea to book your Chichen Itza entrance tickets online in advance, that way you can skip the line when you get there and spend more time touring the ruins.

Book Now: ADO Bus To Chichen Itza

How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza Drive Tour Bus

The Chichen Itza ruins were a highlight of our trip to Cancun, Mexico

Cancun To Chichen Itza FAQ

  • What is Chichen Itza? From 600 AD to 1200 AD, Chichen Itza was one of the biggest and most important cities for the Mayan civilization. The centerpiece of this archaeological park is the giant pyramid known as the Temple of Kukulcán (El Castillo). Even though you can’t climb it anymore, it’s still a spectacular wonder of the world!
  • Is Chichen Itza worth visiting? Yes! Chichen Itza is definitely worth visiting! It’s a wonder of the ancient world, and the main pyramid is really impressive. This was the highlight of our trip to Mexico.
  • What is the distance from Cancun to Chichen Itza? The road distance from Cancun to Chichen Itza is about 200 kilometers (125 miles).
  • How hard is it to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun? It’s easy to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun, regardless of which kind of transport you use (car, bus, or tour).
  • Can you fly to Chichen Itza? No, there’s not an airport at Chichen Itza. The closest airport is the Cancun International Airport (code: CUN). You can shop for international flights to Mexico at Skyscanner.
  • Is it safe to drive from Cancun to Chichen Itza? Yes, the general consensus is that it is safe to drive from Cancun to Chichen Itza. The roads are in great condition and it’s a fairly easy route. Yucatan is the safest state in the country of Mexico, and many tourists drive from Cancun to Chichen Itza every day without any issues.
  • What are the best things to see on the way from Cancun to Chichen Itza? There are lots of great things to stop and see while driving from Cancun to Chichen Itza. One of the best places to visit nearby is the 16th century city of Valladolid, and there are also many beautiful cenotes where you can go for a swim. Tour packages to Chichen Itza often include some of these sights as well. The tour we used , for example, included a visit to Cenote Saamal, which is a nice open air sinkhole where you can go swimming and take photos.
  • What is the best Chichen Itza tour? Here is a high rated Chichen Itza Cancun full day group tour with pickup from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or Riviera Maya. We used this tour ourselves, and had a great experience!

Valladolid Mexico

The 16th century city of Valladolid is a great place to stop and visit on the way to Chichen Itza

  • How can I go from Tulum or Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza? If you’re starting from Tulum or Playa Del Carmen, you have the same basic options as in Cancun. You can book a tour to Chichen Itza , rent a car and drive yourself, or take the ADO public bus.
  • How many people visit Chichen Itza? Chichen Itza got 2.6 million visitors in 2017, and daily numbers can be as high as 18,000 visitors. Needless to say, it’s a very popular tourist attraction, but there’s a lot of wide open space surrounding the ruins so it doesn’t feel as crowded as you might expect. If you want to beat the crowds, get there early in the morning, and try to avoid weekends and holidays. If you want to see some other epic Mayan ruins in Central America without as many people, check out Tikal Guatemala !
  • What is the entrance fee for Chichen Itza? At the time of writing, the total entrance fee for Chichen Itza is 538 Mexican pesos (~$26 USD) for adults, and kids under age 13 are free. Tour prices usually don’t include the entrance fee, so it’s something you pay yourself. You should be able to pay the fee with credit card, but it’s a good idea to bring enough cash just in case the machines aren’t working. Another thing to note is that there’s also a parking fee of 80 pesos (~$4 USD) if you self drive to Chichen Itza. I think the best thing to do is to book your Chichen Itza entrance tickets online in advance, that way you can skip the line when you get there and spend more time touring the ruins. Happy travels!

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Im also a world traveler. I visited Chichin Itza a few months ago while staying in Merida Mexico. I took a public bus from centro and traveled with the nationals. Very enjoyable and cheap.

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Thanks for sharing!

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Hi. You link to a tour to Chichen itza leads to a list of tours on the website. Which tour and company exactly did you use? I’ll just book with them as well. Thanks.

Hi. Here is the link for the tour we used. The name of the tour we used is ‘Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour.’ For some reason the direct link isn’t working, and instead it brings up a list of tours, but the first one on the list is the exact one we used. Thanks, enjoy!

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IMAGES

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  2. Comment visiter Chichen Itza depuis Cancun

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  3. Chichen Itza: The Ultimate Guide!

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  4. Excursión a Chichén Itzá desde Cancún (Cancún)

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. THE 10 BEST Chichen Itza Tours & Excursions

    10. Chichen Itza Early Access Tour, Cenote Swim, Tequila and Lunch. 1,392. Full-day Tours. 6+ hours. Experience one of the new seven wonders of the World, Chichen Itza before the crowds arrive when you embark on this full…. Free cancellation. from. $44.

  2. 17 Best Chichén Itzá Tours From Cancún

    Chichén Itzá, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid. Get directions. One of the most popular excursion options from Cancún is a Chichén Itzá, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid tour. This full-day group tour will take approximately 12 hours, including travel time to and from Cancún. Your first stop is the incredible Chichén Itzá.

  3. Chichen Itza, Cancun

    Book tours and tickets to experience Chichen Itza. Reserve a ticket for your trip to Cancun today. Free cancellation and payment options - Viator. a Tripadvisor company. Top Cancun activities ... This full-day tour from Cancun packs a sightseeing punch—see Valladolid, a 16th-century colonial city, visit the ancient Maya civilization of ...

  4. Cancun to Chichen Itza Day Trip with Admission and Lunch 2024

    Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Early morning Chichen Itza Tour, Cenote and Tequila Tasting. 2,638. from $49.00. Price varies by group size. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Tulum Day Trip Mayan Ruins With Cenote Swim. 617. from $59.00.

  5. Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun 2024

    Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. from $203.85. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Cancun Boat Tour to Isla Mujeres on Luxury Yacht with Chef -SR55C. 8. from $2,600.00. Per group. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Chichen Itza Early Access Tour, Cenote Swim, Tequila and Lunch.

  6. 13 BEST Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun

    This full-day tour to Chichen Itza from Cancun is great value for money at only $49 USD per person. Which for a 12-hour tour works at just over $4 per hour! Considering you get a guided tour of Chichen Itza, Valladolid, and Cenote Saamal, this is a great option for budget-savvy travelers staying in Cancun.

  7. 12 BEST Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun [2024]

    There are plenty of fabulous tours from Cancun to Chichen Itza, but in our opinion these are the best options: • Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour. • Visit to Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Valladolid with Lunch from Cancun. • Chichen Itza Early Access, Cenote, Tequila & Traditional Lunch.

  8. Cancún: Classic Chichen Itza Day Tour with Lunch

    Visit Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Eat a buffet lunch and watch a performance of traditional song and dance. Stop at an underwater grotto and enjoy a relaxing swim. Full description. Take a day trip from Cancún to Chichen Itza, the capital of the ancient Mayan civilization, with hotel ...

  9. Chichen Itza Tours From Cancun

    FROM 910 USD Book now. With the Luxury Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun, enjoy the perks of traveling in Luxury. If you want to get in style to Chichen Itza, you must book this tour. Get to Chichen Itza from Cancun in a Suburban vehicle with refreshing amenities on the ride.

  10. 12 Best Chichen Itza Tours From Cancun

    The cost of Chichen Itza tours from Cancun varies according to the tour you choose. Tours start from as little as £45 / $53 per person for short-duration tours with a large group. You can expect to pay well over £100 / $125 per person for the best private tours to Chichen Itza from Cancun.

  11. Chichen Itza Sky Luxury Cruiser Tour from Cancun

    An exclusive tour to Chichen Itza with the ultimate in comfort and style that will meet your expectations, this all inclusive excursion departs from Cancun From Mexico: 800-225-8383 USA & Canada: 1-866-387-6678 International: +52 (998) 849-4923 Whatsapp: +52-998-321-1173

  12. The 7 Best Chichén Itzá & Cenote Tours in Cancun

    The Chichen Itza Full-Day Extended Tour from Cancun is a 12-hour tour that covers some of the most historical locations in all of the country. Including soft drinks and beer onboard, they make sure to keep you feeling great and well-hydrated!

  13. 6 Best Chichen Itza Private Tours from Cancun (2023)

    Chichen Itza Sunrise and Cenote Ik Kil Private Tour from Cancun. 4. Private Excursion to Chichen Itza Valladolid Breathtaking Cenote. 5. VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour - Luxury Car. 6. VIP Chichen Itza & Coba Private Tour. What to Bring on Your Chichen Itza Private Tour. Private Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun: FAQs.

  14. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour

    Visit Valladolid, Chichen Itza (own expense), and Cenote on a daylong excursion. Enjoy time for souvenir shopping, photo ops at the sights, and swimming. Get great inclusions—sight entry, buffet lunch, and cuisine demonstration. Hotel pickup provided from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya hotels.

  15. Chichen Itza Tour Express from Cancun

    10:45AM Arrival at Chichen Itza; guests remain 2 hours at the archeological site, of which 1 hour is guided tour and 1 hour is free time. 12:45 PM Departure from Chichen Itza towards the hotel zone to arrive approximately between 3:30 PM and 4:30 PM at the hotel lobby. This tour is only available on Thursdays.

  16. Chichén Itzá Tour| Xichén by Xcaret Official Site

    It does not apply to combinations of two or more parks or tours. 15% OFF by purchasing any archaeological tour at least 21 days in advance. It also applies on the purchase of combinations of two parks or tours. 20% OFF on the purchase of combinations of three or more parks or tours. 25% discount for children from 5 to 11 years old on the adult ...

  17. Express Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun

    Chichen Itza. Destinations. Cancun. Tours. Chichen Itza Express Tour. FROM 88 USD For Adult. FROM 76 USD For Children. 1 855 577 9836 CHAT NOW.

  18. Chichen Itza Tours

    Enjoy from the regular classic Chichen Itza Tour to private or Luxury Tours to Chichen Itza. 1 855 577 9836 [email protected] Mon-Sun: 8 AM - 5 PM +52 (998) 400 8543. TOURS. Chichen Itza Tour Classic ... If you want to get in style to Chichen Itza, you must book this tour. Get to Chichen Itza from Cancun or the Riviera Maya in a Suburban ...

  19. Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun

    Visiting Chichen Itza mayan ruins is a must-do in your vacation in Cancun, considered a world wonder, find a variety of tours combined with other activities From Mexico: 800-225-8383 USA & Canada: 1-866-387-6678 International: +52 (998) 849-4923 Whatsapp: +52-998-321-1173

  20. Chichen Itza Early Access, Cenote & Buffet lunch 2024

    Be the first group of the day at Chichen Itza with this early access tour. Early morning entry to the world wonder means you'll beat the heat and the crowds. Enjoy a mix of guided sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. Recover energy and taste the Mexican food with the buffet lunch included.

  21. Best Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun, Tulum & Playa [2024]

    View on Viator. A highly-rated Chichen Itza and cenote tour from Playa, this Chichen Itza tour takes around 10 - 12 hours and includes hotel pick up, a quick stop in Valladolid, lunch (with vegetarian options), unlimited drinks (and beer! 🍻), plus admission into the Mayan ruins and Suytun Cenote.

  22. How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza: Drive, Tour & Bus

    The bus journey from Cancun to Chichen Itza (or vice versa) takes about 3 hours of driving and costs about 250 pesos ($13 USD) for a one way ticket. You can buy these tickets online at the ADO Bus website, or in person at the bus station in Mexico. The ADO buses are clean, with air conditioning and bathrooms.

  23. Explora Chichen Itza en todo su esplendor y sumérgete en la ...

    "¡Explora Chichen Itza en todo su esplendor y sumérgete en la frescura de los cenotes Ik kil y Suytun! Únete a nuestro emocionante tour con salidas...

  24. Chichen Itza Full day tour with buffet 2024

    ISLA MUJERES tour & TULUM tour, all in 2 days From Cancun. from $125.00. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Chichen Itza, Coba, Cenote & Valladolid with Buffet Lunch. 363. from $54.00. Price varies by group size. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Luxury Tour in Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen.