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Go Tulum Travel

Premium travel in Tulum

Chichen Itza + Cenote Tour

Full day private tour, history + culture.

Yes, you can visit the amazing Chichen Itza Ruins and experience a cenote in one day! We’ll depart early to Mexico’s famous Mayan archeological landmark, also known as one of the “new 7 Wonders of the World” and then visit the beautiful Saamal Cenote. A Mayan-style lunch is included before returning to your Tulum hotel/Airbnb. Pick-up time is 8am and the private tour ends before 4pm.

➕ ➕ Make it a double cenote day and add the breathtaking Suytun Cenote for $25 USD per person (entrance fee included). See the Suytun Cenote Reels here . Please note, this experience will add another hour to the itinerary.

 For a general idea of our private cenote tours, please see our IG Stories highlights here .

 ✅ TULUM YACHTS guests take 10% off below published rates.

To reserve your date , complete our super quick form below. 

PRIVATE tour includes:

• Pick up and drop off at your Tulum hotel/Airbnb
• English-speaking driver and guide
• Ruins and cenote entrance fees
• Parking fee
• Bottled water and healthy snacks
• Lunch at local restaurant (we pay)

By booking this private tour, you are supporting local communities, and we appreciate you. 🫶

Contact us.

Neidy | tours + Transportation manager

WhatsApp: +52 1 983 143 0334

Email: [email protected]

The Chichen Itza and Cenote private tour includes pick up and drop off at your Tulum hotel/Airbnb, English-speaking driver and guide, the ruins and cenote entrance fees, parking fee, bottled water and light snacks onboard, and lunch at a local restaurant (we pay). Adding the Suytun Cenote experience is $25 USD extra per person.

Please bring:

• Comfortable clothes with swimsuit underneath
• Comfortable shoes for trekking and water shoes for the cenote
• Biodegradable insect repellent + sunblock
• Extra money (USD or pesos) or Visa credit card for souvenirs, gratuity, and extra food and beverages

Please complete our booking form  here  and an onsite team member will contact you within 48 hours to confirm availability and deposit. A detailed confirmation is e-mailed upon deposit receipt. Feel free to  contact us  with any questions.

HAPPY CUSTOMERS. 🫶

5 out of 5 stars. Will recommend for future uses. From the beginning Neidy & Crystian were great and communicated & helped every step of the way. All services provided was seamless with no issues. Manuel (Manu) was our driver for 2 of the 5 days we were there and he was the best. Bertos were good as well for the pick up. But hands down Manu was the best. ... See More See Less

I worked with Betty and Cristhyan to set up an amazing wedding celebration. We simply could not have done it without the help of Cristhyan. He made our weekend that much more special by going above and beyond. From helping find my flowers to hiring the photographer to working with the Chef to create a perfect menu; working with Go Tulum Travel was seamless. The chef and his team were ultimate professionals (and made delicious food), the bartenders were so fun and everything went smoothly. I can't recommend them enough! ... See More See Less

I am so grateful to Go Tulum Travel for planning a great trip for me! It was my first Mexico visit and I saw so much beauty: gorgeous beaches, cenotes, amazing restaurants, historical tours. Thanks!!! ... See More See Less

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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

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Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Tour

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Join Today our Chichen Itza Ik Kil tour from Cancun and experience the best of Mexico. Benefit from pick-up at your Hotel in Cancún or the Riviera Maya, and visit one of the most famous new 7 Wonders of the World.

Our program offers you a great experience since you will arrive at Chichen Itza before many tourists, and you will have better contact with the Mayan world.

Visit the pyramid of Kukulcan (El Castillo and discover the ceremonial centre of the Mayan Civilization.

Swim in the ancient Cenote of Ik Kil and experience one of the sinkholes that form part of the world’s largest networks of underground rivers.

Enjoy a delicious buffet meal and complete the experience by visiting one of the most beautiful towns in Mexico, Valladolid.

Not so sure about this tour? Check out our Top Tour Award Winner to Chichen Itza.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation 24 hours before activity

• Explore the pyramid temples and other monuments of Chichen Itza
• Experience the Mayan underground and refresh in Cenote at Ik Kil
• Discover the majesty of Valladolid, its temples and the ancestry

Hotel pickup from Cancun and Riviera Maya hotels.

Playa del Carmen and Tulum pickup will be at a meeting point.

What to Expect

The Chichen Itza and  Ik Kil tour start in the lobby of your Hotel. One of our friendly staff will meet you there according to the pick-up schedule previously sent to you. 

Upon arrival at Chichén Itzá, one of our expert guides will guide you to the wonders of this marvellous archaeological zone. Skip the lines and visit Chichen Itza , one of the largest Maya cities. 

Nowadays, Chichen Itza is undoubtedly the best-preserved Maya site on the Yucatan peninsula, and it was recently declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Different architectural styles are seen in Chichen Itza. 

The most famous landmarks are the Temple of Kukulkan (“El Castillo”), the Ballgame Court, the Platform of the Skulls, the Temple of the Jaguar, the Observatory, the One Thousand Columns, and the Sacred Cenote.

Then forget about the heat and jump into the refreshing waters of Cenote Ik Kil. This sinkhole is near the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, on the highway to Valladolid.

The Cenote is open to the sky, with the water level about 26 meters (85 ft) below ground level. There is a carved stairway down to a swimming platform. The Cenote is about 60 meters (200 ft) in diameter and about 40 meters (130 ft) deep. 

Cenotes are sacred to the Maya People, and the Maya Civilization used this Cenote for both relaxation and ritual services. 

After refreshing in the Cenote, we will have a buffet lunch and then continue to Valladolid to glimpse contemporary Mexico. 

Valladolid is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico due to its temples’ majesty and the ancestry of its old neighbourhoods. We will spend 30 – 40 minutes getting to know the city. 

You will be back at the Hotel before 8 PM. 

What's included

• Round-trip transportation
• Hotel pick-up from Selected Hotels in Cancun and Riviera Maya
• Playa del Carmen and Tulum pick-up will be at a meeting point
• Visit the Cenote (sinkhole), Ik Kil
• Access to the restrooms and dressing rooms at Ik Kil
• Buffet meal
• 30 minute stop at Valladolid main square

What's not included

• Chichen Itza access tax it's 40 usd per adult / 5 usd per child
• Lockers and life jackets 3 usd each
• Beverages in the Buffet
• Personal expenses
• Optional gratuities

Additional Info

• We suggest you to bring Comfortable clothes (beachwear), shoes and towel

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Chichen Itza and Cenote Maya Tour

• Description

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.

The tour Chichen itza and Cenote Maya makes possible to combine two extraordinary sites of the peninsula of Yucatan that represent the essence of the Mayan culture. The archaeological site of Chichen Itza was founded around 525 AC, among the ancient and representative structures that you can admire in the archaeological site is "The Pyramid Kukulcan" or "The Castle" known as one of the seven wonders of the modern world, On this tour you will discover why thousands of visitors come around the world to explore this Mayan jewel. Discover the maya culture, visit an authentic maya house, participate in an authentic blessing ceremony and enjoy traditional buffet prepared with organic vegetables from our own orchard. Photographers of the maya communities will take great pictures of you during the activities! The Cenote Maya is located in Cenote Maya Park, 25 kilometers from Valladolid, Yucatan, is considered the cenote with the largest dome of the Peninsula. Itinerary 06:00 to 07:30 a.m. (Pick-up at hotels in the Riviera Maya or Cancun). 09:30 to 10:00 a.m. Arrival at Chichen Itza. Chichen Itza (2:15 hours guided tour at the archaeological site). Visit the ancient maya city of Chichen Itza, meaning "water well of the Itzan people”. It was the outstanding capital of the maya area and the worship center most revered. Walk through remarkable buildings and get detailed explanations provided by your expert guide during the tour. 01:30 p.m. (Arrival at Cenote Maya Native Park). Cenote Maya Native Park (2:30 hours at the park). • Visit and refresh yourself at Cenote Maya: descend into the region’s most impressive cenote of 60 m (196 feet) diameter and an almost perfect circular shape. Its crystal-clear waters and geological formations make it a great natural jewel. Ascend from the underworld through a tunnel or use the large wooden staircase. • Optional included adventure activities: swimming, diving, trepachanga (ropes), Tarzan vine and rappel down 26 m (85 feet). 120 kgs (265 lbs) is the maximum weight for the rappel activity. • Maya ritual: Delve into the natural wonders and participate in an authentic ceremony of blessings carried out by a maya shaman of the community and scented by copal. • Traditional meal: Enjoy a traditional menu made with organic orchard supplies and handmade tortillas. 06:30 to 07:00 p.m. (Return to hotels in Riviera Maya or Cancun).

• Transportation in small groups
• Entrance fee to Chichen Itza
• Archaeological tour guide
• Traditional lunch
• Equipment required for activities
• Tips for guides
• Alcoholic drinks

Additional information

• Important: the tour only operates on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from hotels located in Costa Mujeres and Puerto Morelos.
• This expedition may represent an over-exertion for people with disabilities and/or moms-to-be.
• Children up to the age of six can enjoy the tour.
• People under the influence of alcohol or toxic substances won’t be allowed to participate.
• For safety reasons, hands should be kept free, the use of cameras and recording devices (including cell phones or tablets) is not allowed, except for action cam style, only if it is assembled on a chest or head mount during the excursion. This tour may have some restrictions on weather conditions.

What to bring

• Set of dry clothes
• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Cash or credit card

Pick-up Information:

• Pick up is available in most of hotels in Cancun and the Riviera Maya. Exact time of your pick-up will be sent by email after booking.
• In case we dont have pick-up for a specific hotel or location will be sent you the nearest meeting point where pick-up is available

Refunds and Cancellations:

• Cancellations made 48 hrs before = 100% refund
• Cancellations made between 36-48 hrs before = 80% refund.
• Cancellations made between 24-36 hrs before = 50% refund.
• Cancellations made less than 24 hrs before = no refund.
• No show = no refund

Overall rating: ( 10 Reviews)

Book this tour

Select a tour option, select participants, select a date, pick me up at:.

The Top 5 Cenotes Near Chichen Itza That You Must Visit

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Wondering about the best cenotes near Chichen Itza ? You’ve come to the right place!

There are so many cenotes near the Chichen Itza archeological site because it’s located in the heart of the Yucatan peninsula, where you will find a major concentration of these sacred sinkholes.

In this post, I will tell you about all the cenotes near Chichen Itza that you can visit during your trip and how to get there, especially if you are renting a car.

Whether you are coming from Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or Merida, a visit to Chichen Itza is a full day trip, and it’s always a good idea to include a visit to one of the spectacular cenotes near Chichen Itza and a visit to Valladolid while you are there.

All the organized tours combine a visit to Chichen Itza with a stop at a cenote and a quick visit to the charming Valladolid historical center, the gateway to the Colonial Yucatan.

GET YOUR CUSTOMIZED GOOGLE MAP OF ALL THE CENOTES OF THE YUCATAN PENINSULA

✔️ 60+ Cenotes to explore in the Yucatan Peninsula ✔️ Descriptions + link to related posts ✔️ Pictures ✔️ Ongoing updates ✔️ All my cenote articles in a map!

The Top 5 Cenotes Near Chichen Itza

1. cenote ik kil.

Cenote IK Kil is one of the most popular cenotes near Valladolid and THE MOST popular. It is included in almost all the Chichen Itza tours. There are two reasons why it’s the most popular.

• It’s the closest to Chichen Itza.
• It’s spectacular

In fact, it’s considered one of the best cenotes near Chichen Itza, although one of the most crowded, unfortunately.

Although it’s a natural cenote the owners have grown an incredible natural landscape around it with lush vegetation and plants cascading down the cenote hole creating some of the most Instaworthy pictures.

You also have fancy facilities that you can enjoy, such as showers, lockers, bathrooms and a restaurant.

Although it’s beautiful, it’s always crowded unless you go first thing in the morning before Chichen Itza.

If you are in the area for a few days and you are visiting on your own, I would visit this cenote, not on the same day you are visiting Chichen Itza, so you can visit them both first thing in the morning and avoid the crowds.

This place really gets packed.

Entry fees – 180 MXN

Opening hours – 9 am to 5 pm

Insider tip – The Cenote Ik Kil is also a hotel. So you can stay there and have access to the cenote outside the opening hours. Rates start from 60 USD. You must book on their website .

2. Cenote Yokdzonot

Cenote Yokdzonot is a spectacular, huge open Cenote about a 30-minute drive from Chichen Itza. It’s usually also considered a great day trip from Merida for its closeness.

The cenote takes its name from the town where it’s located and is managed by a local community well engaged in keeping the cenote clean and worth visiting.

They also offer a zipline, rappelling, and a great restaurant serving simple local dishes

Access to this cenote is very easy with wooden stairs, but for the more adventurous, there are jumping platforms as well.

There is a cord to help you cross the huge cenote; life jackets are mandatory for your safety.

You can also find a small artisan shop where you can purchase some local products as authentic Mexican souvenirs .

Entrance fee 150 MXN

Zip Line – 70 MXN

Rappelling – 70 MXN

3. Tsukán Santuario de Vida

Located only 20 minutes from Chichen Itza, Tsukan is a private cenote that has recently opened. It’s located in a beautiful park with interpretative paths and great facilities.

You can find a restaurant serving local dishes, an ice cream bar, elegant showers and bathrooms, and a shop with some t-shirts and accessories.

The cenote itself is a spectacular cave cenote with incredibly turquoise water. The platform from where you access is quite small, so it’s not suitable for big groups, and when it gets crowded, it could be a problem.

However, I believe the high price keeps many people away.

You have to climb 180 stairs, but they are not steep and very easy to walk.

The cenote is often home to the beautiful Mot Mot bird, which is said to be a sacred bird for the Mayans. It has colorful plumage and a long tail that resembles a pendulum.

I saw three of them while there, but they were too far for my camera to catch them.

Entrance fee: 230 MXN

Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm

Life Jacket is mandatory and included in the price for safety reasons because the cenote is deep, and you must sign a responsibility release form when you enter.

4. Cenote Kax Ek

Cenote Kax Ek is quite a detour from the usual Chichen Itza route, 40 minutes from the archeological site and 30 minutes from Valladolid.

It’s less popular than the above-mentioned cenotes, probably because of the bad condition of the dirt road in the last 5 km before reaching the cenote. So keep that in mind.

Also, dogs are not allowed if you are traveling with a pet (just like in most cenotes).

The Cenote Kax Ek is huge, and although the water doesn’t seem as transparent as you would expect, it gets quite clear once you are inside, depending on the weather.

Although the cenote is quite isolated, it offers all the necessary facilities, showers, changing rooms, toilets, and a tidy and clean environment.

And, of course, there are guards there, so if you feel uncomfortable driving alone in the middle of nowhere, know that you are not alone in the cenote.

Entrance fee: 150 MX

Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm

Cenote Lol-ha

You can visit another spectacular cenote near Chichen Itza during your day trip. Cenote Lol Ha is located in the town of Yaxuna, where you can appreciate an authentic Mayan community.

It’s another open cenote with easy access to the water but also a couple of platforms for the more adventurous who love to jump into the underworld.

I haven’t been there yet, but I will go soon and will share pictures. I wanted to include them here for the sake of information.

In the cenote, there are toilets but no showers, although I hope they change that soon because. As an important rule, you should always shower when you enter a cenote to rinse off any residual chemicals from body lotions that may pollute the water.

Entrance fee – 100 MXN

Opening hours – 10 am to 5 pm

Life jacket rental available

Chichen Itza Cenotes – Cenote Xcolot and Sacred Cenote

There are two cenotes in the archeological site of Chichen Itza. One is barely visible and almost abandoned, close to the prestigious Mayaland Hotel.

It’s called Cenote Xcolot , and it’s hidden beyond the thick vegetation.

The other more popular one is the Sacred Cenote (cenote Sagrado).

Although you can’t swim in it, it is a beautiful site and fits very well within the majestic complex of the ancient Mayan city.

All the cenotes were sacred to the Mayans and used both for ceremonial purposes and as water wells. It seems that Chichen Itza Cenote was particularly used for human sacrifices.

If you are wrenching now, you may be relieved to know that for the ancient Mayan culture, it was a great honor to be sacrificed for the Gods. Difficult for us to understand.

Anyway, from the Castillo you have to walk for about 1 km to reach the sacred cenote. It’s kind of the walk of shame because your path is lined with many different vendors calling you and trying to sell you stuff.

So, instead of being a spiritual walk to the Sacred Cenote, it becomes a challenge to get to the cenote without buying anything.

Once you arrive, sit in the shade of the secular trees for a few minutes and look for the precious Mot Mot bird .

It was also considered a sacred bird for the Mayans, and there are many around the area.

The previous time I was in Chichen Itza, I was lucky enough to spot some (see picture below). Not this time, though.

More Cenotes Near Valladolid

These above-mentioned cenotes are the ones that are closest to Chichen Itza. However, if you are looking for more cenotes closer to Valladolid, this list of the best Valladolid Cenotes will certainly help you find more.

Visiting the Chichen Itza Cenotes on Your Own by Car

I always suggest renting a car in Mexico if you want to explore the Yucatan Peninsula because it’s one of the safest areas, and you will have the opportunity to discover amazing hidden treasures that local transportation won’t get.

When it comes to renting a car in Mexico , or anywhere, I recommend checking on the Discover Cars site because there you can compare different prices from various international and local car rental companies.

If you get a Mexican SIM card (which I highly recommend), you can download Google Maps to get anywhere you want without getting lost. Find nearby places where to stay and where to eat, and you are going to have a blast.

Discover Cars Mexico Review

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

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

Find a Tour That Includes Cenotes Near Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza tours are some of the most popular in the Yucatan Peninsula, and they all include a visit to one of the cenotes near Chichen Itza.

Below, I am listing the ones that are more highly rated from each major city.

👉The Best Chichen Itza + Cenote Tour from Merida

5 ⭐ 174 Reviews

This full-day Yucatan tour from Mérida offers stopovers to the Chichen Itza and the Izamal, filled with architectural wonders. If you book a schedule earlier, you can stroll the UNESCO World Heritage Site with fewer people.

Finally, cool off in a local cenote owned by a local family. It also comes with air-conditioned transportation.

Delio was a terrific guide, please ask for him! He was very professional, attentive, and informative. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Don_M, Jul 2023

👉 The Best Chichen Itza + Cenote Tour from Cancun

Take this full-day tour for an incredible journey beginning at Chichen Itza while guides explain its deep history. The next stop is a break in Valladolid to take photos and walk around the town.

The final destination is the Mayan Cenote in the lush Mayan jungle. Take a swim in the crystal clear and fresh water!

👉 The Best Chichen Itza + Cenote Tour from Playa Del Carmen

5 ⭐ 89 Reviews

The private tour to Chichén Itzá and a Mayan cenote was a true gem! Our guide was incredibly personable and clearly had a deep love for his homeland, which made the tour even more enjoyable.

Plus, the delicious meals like mole and comfy transportation added to the experience.

Our guide, Limbert, was very knowledgeable of Chichen Itza… He explained what the stone carvings and iconography were, what they meant, and why they were import to the Mayans… ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Steve_S, Apr 2023

👉The Best Chichen Itza+ Cenote Tour from Tulum

3.5 ⭐ 3 Reviews

This small-group Yucatán tour was an absolute delight! The guide was excellent in adding knowledge to every stop.

Exploring Chichén Itzá’s magnificent ruins, taking a dip in the cenote, and strolling through charming Valladolid make this tour an excellent experience. It also comes with a delicious buffet lunch and hassle-free transportation.

We had a guide called Viktor. He was amazing and has been doing it for 35 years. He literally made the whole experience… Viktor was out of this world and I would highly recommend to anyone. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Emma_T, Feb 2022

More Chichen Itza + Cenote Tours

➡️ Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Small Group Day Trip

➡️ Chichen Itza All-Inclusive, Buffet Lunch, Cenote,Tequila tasting & Valladolid

How to Get To Chichen Itza

I am working on detailed articles on the different ways to get to Chichen Itza from the most popular cities and towns in the Yucatan Peninsula .

✔️ How to Get to Chichen Itza from Cancun in 2023 (info and prices)

✔️ How to Get to Chichen Itza from Tulum in 2023

✔️ How to Get to Chichen Itza from Playa del Carmen in 2023

✔️ How to Get to Chichen Itza from Merida in 2023

Is It Safe to Visit the Chichen Itza Cenote on Your Own?

Yes, it is totally safe to visit Chichen Itza, just like all the major tourist sites in Mexico.

You will find a lot of people around you, all visitors like you.

The only issue may be the pickpocketers, although it’s rare to find them on the site. Just ensure you keep your personal belongings on you or lock them in the lockers at the entrance.

My Mexico packing list will help you pick up what you really need for your trip and leave the unnecessary items behind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cenotes Near Chichen Itza

Which cenote is best near chichen itza.

Cenote Ik Kil is the most famous cenote near Chichen Itza and is mostly included in tours. It has incredible facilities like bathrooms, restaurants, hotels, and more!

But it’s often crowded due to its popularity so I suggest visiting in the morning.

How Far are the Cenotes Near Chichen Itza from the Archaeological Site?

The cenotes are located between a 20-minute to nearly an hour’s drive from Chichen Itza. The closest option is Tsukán Santuario de Vida, a private cenote boasting modern amenities and a restaurant.

It’s a peaceful choice with fewer crowds, but the higher cost might not be suitable for travelers on a budget.

How Do I Get to the Cenotes Near Chichen Itza from the Archaeological Site?

If you have a specific cenote near Chichen Itza in mind, renting a car is a great option for getting there.

Alternatively, consider guided tours for a stress-free experience that often includes extra special stops to enhance your adventure.

Can You Swim in All the Cenotes Near Chichen Itza?

You can swim in most cenotes near Chichen Itza, especially the ones I recommended, while others are for diving only. So always check, read the signs, and ask your guide.

Mayan families also own some cenotes for religious ceremonies, such as Cenote Xcolot and the Sacred Cenote.

The Basic Cenote Rules

There are simple rules to follow when visiting a cenote.

✅ Always shower before entering a cenote, and if there is no shower on the premises, make sure you know it in advance and avoid using any body lotions or repellent that may damage the environment.

✅ Do not hold on to tree roots or stalactites, and stalagmites.

✅ Do not take away anything from the natural environment.

✅ Do not trash. Take your trash with you.

✅ Do not shout or be loud. Respect your surroundings and fellow travelers’ space.

✅ Let’s respect the precious and fragile natural environment.

✅ Ask permission from the Aluxes. You can do it in your mind, of course. The Aluxes are tiny creatures and guardians of nature, especially cenotes and caves. They are quite mischievous and can hurt you if you don’t behave correctly. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. 🙂

Before You Go…

Here are some useful posts that you may be interested in!

• The 20 Best Cenotes Near Tulum That You Must Visit
• The 15 Best Cenote Tours from Tulum
• Cancun Cenotes: The Most Spectacular Cenotes Near Cancun
• The 25 Best Merida Cenotes That You Must See
• 17 Most Beautiful Mexican Cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

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

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

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

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

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

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

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

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

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

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

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

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

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

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy travels!!

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

Chichen Itza ruins and Swim in Cenote

PRIVATE TOUR: Discover the Wonders of the Yucatan: private guided visit of Chichen Itza ruins and swim in a cenote (Xkeken, Samula or Oxman). With a lunch at a Gourmet restaurant in Valladolid.

• Pick up and drop off at your hotel with private air-conditioned transportation
• Experienced certified private guide
• Toll road when pick up from Playa del Carmen and Cancun
• All entrance fees
• Life vests at the cenote
• Coffee, snacks & cool drinks in the van (waters, soda)
• Lunch with one main course a la carte

Scroll down for all information & itinerary.

Seamless Booking & Free Cancellation

Book your tour now and if your plans happen to change, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours prior to the tour!

• Number of adults 2 adults (282 USD per person) 3 adults (220 USD per person) 4 adults (205 USD per person) 5 adults (201 USD per person) 6 adults (195 USD per person) 7 adults (185 USD per person) 8 adults (175 USD per person) 9 adults (175 USD per person) 10 adults (175 USD per person) 11 adults (169 USD per person) 12 adults (169 USD per person) 13 adults (169 USD per person) 14 adults (169 USD per person) 15 adults (169 USD per person) 16 adults (169 USD per person) 17 adults (169 USD per person) 18 adults (169 USD per person) 19 adults (169 USD per person) 20 adults (169 USD per person) Total for adults USD

For larger groups, contact us.

• 0 1 kid (169 USD per kid) 2 kids (169 USD per kid) 3 kids (169 USD per kid) 4 kids (169 USD per kid) 5 kids (169 USD per kid) 6 kids (169 USD per kid) 7 kids (169 USD per kid) 8 kids (169 USD per kid) 9 kids (169 USD per kid) 10 kids (169 USD per kid) Total for kids USD
• 0 1 kid (50 USD per kid) 2 kids (50 USD per kid) 3 kids (50 USD per kid) 4 kids (50 USD per kid) 5 kids (50 USD per kid) 6 kids (50 USD per kid) Total for kids USD
• 0 1 infant 2 infants 3 infants 4 infants 5 infants 6 infants Total for kids USD
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PLAYACAR RIU TEQUILA RIU YUCATAN ROSA DEL VIENTO ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA ROYAL HIDEAWAY ROYAL SOLARIS ROYAL SUNSET ROYAL UNO CANCUN ROYALTON CHIC ROYALTON RIVIERA CANCUN ROYALTON SUITES CANCUN SANARA TULUM SANDOS CANCUN SANDOS CARACOL SANDOS PLAYACAR SECRETS AKUMAL SECRETS CAPRI SECRETS MAROMA BEACH SECRETS MOXCHE SECRETS SILVERSANDS RIVIERA CANCUN SECRETS THE VINE CANCUN SENSES RIVIERA MAYA BY ARTISAN SENSIRA RESORTS & SPA RIVIERA MAYA SHAMBALA PETIT HOTEL SIAN KAAN AT GRAND TULUM SOHO HOTEL SOLYMAR SUENOS TULUM SUN PALACE SUNSCAPE AKUMAL BEACH RESORT TEMPTATION CANCUN RESORT THE BLISS AT VIDANTA RIVIERA MAYA THE BRIC HOTEL THE FISHERMENS VILLAGE THE FIVES DOWNTOWN BY HILTON THE FIVES OCEAN FRONT PUERTO MORELOS THE FIVES RESIDENCES PLAYA DEL CARMEN THE GRAND MAYAN VIDANTA THE PALMS THE REEF 28 THE REEF COCO BEACH THE REEF MARINA PLAYACAR THE RITZ CARLTON THE ROYAL CANCUN THE ROYAL CARIBBEAN THE ROYAL HACIENDAS THE ROYAL ISLANDER THE ROYAL PLAYA THE ROYAL SANDS THOMPSON PLAYA DEL CARMEN TROPICALITO TULUM TRS YUCATAN TULUM VILLAS TUNICH UNA VIDA TULUM UNICO 20N 87W VALENTIN IMPERIAL MAYA VENTUS HA AT MARINA EL CID VENTUS MARINA EL CID VICEROY RIVIERA MAYA VIDANTA VILLA PESCADORES VILLAS AKUMAL VIVA WYNDHAM AZTECA VIVA WYNDHAM MAYA WESTIN LAGUNAMAR WESTIN REGINA WESTIN RESORT & SPA CANCUN WYNDHAM ALLTRA CANCUN WYNDHAM ALLTRA PLAYA DEL CARMEN XCARET ARTE XCARET MEXICO XCARET OCCIDENTAL XSCAPE TULUM ZAMAS HOTEL ZAZIL KIN ZOETRY PARAISO DE LA BONITA ZULUM Additional fee for this hotel:
• Select the closest area of your hotel/airbnb/condo Cancun Hotel Zone Boulevard Kukulkan or Cancun Centro Puerto Morelos Playa del Carmen Puerto Aventuras – Akumal Tulum Additional fee for this location: USD

Enter name and address of the place.

Recommended pick up time from your hotel to avoid heat & crowds:

• 06:00 06:15 06:30 06:45 07:00 07:30 07:15 07:45 08:00
• 06:15 06:30 06:45 07:00 07:15 07:30 07:45 08:00
• 06:00 06:15 06:30 06:45 07:00 07:15 07:30 07:45 08:00

We advise 5:30 summer time / 6:30 winter time from your hotel.

(12oz cans e.g. Corona, Modelo, Tecate upon availability)

• No 2 Beers 4 Beers 6 Beers 8 Beers 10 Beers 12 Beers 14 Beers 16 Beers 18 Beers 20 Beers 22 Beers 24 Beers 26 Beers 28 Beers 30 Beers 32 Beers 34 Beers 36 Beers 38 Beers 40 Beers USD

If your date is not available, register on our waiting list.

• Description

General info

Price includes, what to bring.

• Reviews (123)

Chichen Itza ruins and Swim in Cenote Private Tour

Have you always wanted to visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World? If so, and you love both history and nature, then our all-inclusive tour that combines a Chichen Itza private tour with the amazing experience of swimming in a cenote is sure to be a perfect fit for your group’s day trip to the Riviera Maya.

Skip the crowds

Our Chichen Itza private tour is designed to ensure that you get the most for your money by avoiding the crowds at Chichen Itza ruins, whose main pyramid earned it the honor of being named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

When you reach this popular archaeological site that was once one of the largest cities of the ancient Maya, your private tour guide will show you around all of its most famous attractions. In addition to marveling at El Castillo, its impressive step pyramid, you’ll also be able to see features like the Great Ball Court, which was used to play a popular Maya sport, and many other temples, pyramids and notable archaeological ruins.

The best way to cool off after spending the entire morning exploring Chichen Itza in the hot Mexican weather is to have a swim in a cenote!

So, we’ll head to the cenote, you can choose one cenote to visit between Cenote Oxman , Xkeken and Samula , 2 beautiful underground caverns formed by rainwater eroding limestone. We provide all of the equipment you need to go swimming. Your certified guide will show you the cenote’s natural features and lead you through the cool refreshing water.

Once you’ve finished exploring the many fascinating areas of Chichen Itza and cenote, we’ll head to the nearby city of Valladolid, where you can rest for a bit and enjoy an authentic Mexican lunch at a gourmet restaurant, with the delicious cuisine from the Yucatan. After lunch you will have some time to walk around the colonial city and to shop!

• Private Tour: Only you, the guide and the driver, nobody else!
• Duration:  11/12 hours
• Physicality:  Easy
• Age:  All ages
• Snorkeling:  Basic swimming skills required. This excursion suits everyone from novices to experts.
• Cenote:  You can choose one cenote between Cenote Oxman , Xkeken and Samula . Cenote Ik Kil is not included (read our article about it).
• What’s on the menu? Selection of best specialities from Yucatan Cuisime… with vegetarian, fish, chicken & meat options. With corn or flour tortillas. We can accommodate special diets and allergies, just let us know!
• Mobility:  We can adapt this tour for people with disability.
• Pick up and drop off at your hotel with private air-conditioned transportation (Booster car seat and baby car seat available on request)
• Life jackets
• Coffee and cookies
• Snacks & Cool drinks in the van (waters, soda)
• Lunch in a restaurant with one main course a la carte

Price excludes

• Drinks at the restaurant
• Ruins: In case you bring a go pro camera, a video camera or a phone with a selfie stick, there is a 50 pesos (less than 3USD) per device charged at the entrance of each archeological site, to be paid in pesos (INAH tax) – Drones and Tripods for video/cameras are forbidden.

Our tours are scheduled at the best hours to avoid high traffic and heat on the sites. Discover the 3 benefits of an early departure to visit Chichen Itza

06:15am: Private transportation from your hotel to Chichen Itza (a little bit less than 3hours driving, we have one hour difference time between Cancun/Playa del Carmen/Tulum and Chichen Itza) 08:00am – 11:30am: Visit of Chichen Itza + free time 11:30am – 12:15pm: Transportation 12:15pm – 01:15pm: Swim in cenote Xkeken or Samula or Oxman 01:15pm – 01:30pm: Transportation 01:30pm – 03:00pm: Lunch in Valladolid + free time 03:00pm – 06:00pm: Transportation to your hotel

Pick up time is recommended time to avoid the crowds. We can leave later if you want to.

• Beach Towels
• Swimsuit (We recommend wearing it in the morning and feel free to change after snorkeling activities)
• Comfortable shoes for the ruins (We recommend tennis shoes)
• Flip flops or sandals for water activities (Water shoes are optional but can be worn for added comfort)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen and we recommend wearing a rash-guard/UV-Shirt for water activities*
• Mosquito repellent*
• Cash (for tour payment, tips, souvenirs…)
• Camera/Underwater camera/Waterproof case for your phone

  * It is forbidden to apply sunblock and repellent before swimming or snorkeling activities to prevent water pollution in the cenotes, even if they are biodegradable products. Compliance with this rule is essential for the protection of the environment.   You can bring personal belongings you require during the tour (phone, camera, extra set of clothes…). While you are visiting or snorkeling you can leave the things you don’t need in the van. Our driver will always be in the van, so keeping your things safe!

123 reviews for Chichen Itza ruins and Swim in Cenote

QT – April 23, 2024

Tour of Chichén Itzá was super cool. Joshua was an awesome tour guide he was super knowledgeable and funny. Cenote was refreshing and lunch was super good.

Quinton – April 21, 2024

Trip to Chichén Itzá and a Cenote, Joshua was a great tour guide very friendly and knowledgeable. Rodrigo the driver was great. Lunch was awesome.

Jamburl – April 18, 2024

Fantastic Day! A big thank you to Juan and Enrique for such an enjoyable day. We visited Cancun for the first time in mid-March and were looking for a safe, educational and fun way to spend a day off the resort with our teenage son. After much research, we booked the Chichen Itza tour. It was one of the best tours we’ve ever been on. Juan and Enrique picked us up promptly at 6:15am and we reached Chichen Itza before the crowds. Everything was well organized with tickets pre-purchased for us and we were ushered through the gates. We really felt like VIPs. Juan guided us through the ruins and shared his extensive knowledge of the Mayans. It was incredible and we have some great pictures in front of El Castillo without another person in sight. We really appreciated the private tour, especially when we were leaving Chichen Itza and saw dozens of buses and hundreds of people lined up to get in. We then traveled a short distance to a ceynote. Again, it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves with only 4-5 other people there at the same time. It was a spiritual and invigorating experience. After that we enjoyed a delicious lunch at a very nice restaurant in Valladolid. It was a stress-free day. Enrique skillfully and safely drove the entire trip. Juan was a wealth of knowledge and able to share so much about the culture. Both were very friendly and professional. We would highly recommend Absolute and will definitely spend another day with them on our next trip to Mexico.

Charles – April 17, 2024

Website had all the dates as full. They engaged through chat function and Claire helped find a date they could rearrange staff to accomodate our trip. 1st class service. Juan (our guide) reached out and strongly encouraged an earlier start (we wanted coffee) and arranged a stop for that life giving elixir for us. Great decision, cooler at Chican Itza and much less crowded. By the time we left it was much busier and a lot hotter. We had the Cenote swim as an add-on and had the out of the way location almost entirely to ourselves. Never had more than two other swimmers with us. Fantastic. Now, back to Juan. I have never had a better guide and interpreter. His knowledge of the Maya and their customs was excellent and accurate. He engaged our children (10,10 & 7) in the details and really excited their imagination. Lunch was in some hidden away local gem and has been our best meal of the trip.

Justin – April 7, 2024

The cenote swim made the entire trip. I mean I’ve always wanted to see Chichen Itza, so item checked, it was so hot our day one of the kids couldn’t do much more, absolutely no one’s fault and with this private tour we got there before opening. I can’t imagine arriving when we left and there were plenty of busses waiting to get in at that point. A/C and cold water revived everyone and then the cenote got us all the way back. The lunch was fantastic. Chris our guide gave good recommendations. I would highly recommend this tour just on the timeframe of getting there, the cenote, and lunch. Our driver Omar was super patient, and was fantastic in watching over whatever we left in the vehicle and was opening the trunk to the cooler as soon as he saw us after ever stop.

Michael – April 3, 2024

Great tour with Arturo. Very knowledgeable. It’s an early tour but it allows you to beat the crowds. By the time we were done at Chichen Itza, it was getting crowded. Same with the Cenote. Lunch in Valladolid was great. Highly recommend this tour. Thanks Arturo!

Scott – April 2, 2024

100% Worth the Money Went on the Chichen Itza private tour with another couple. Our guide was Alex and our driver was Omar. If you’re lucky, you’ll get these guys. They were total pros and we never had any worries at all during the day! Our pickup was early at the hotel and on time. Alex gave us an outline of what the day would entail while Omar drove in a safe yet efficient manner. Made a gas station stop on the way and any time we were away from the van, Omar was standing with it and it was a great feeling knowing our belongings were safe. At Chichen Itza Omar dropped us off at the entrance like rock stars and Alex led us through the already developing long line. We walked right into the site and I was blown away. Alex was an excellent guide and was fascinating to listen to. We learned so much about the Mayans and the buildings we were lucky enough to get to see. We all felt incredible appreciation for the history and respect for the area and the people who lived there. We were toured in a very efficient and enthusiastic way by Alex and we were out of there by 11 ish. By then there were literally thousands of people entering the site and an incredible amount of vans and tour buses. Omar had us hooked up near the exit and we were tail lights thankfully. It’s a pretty big crowd by noon. We then went to the Cenote and it was unlike anything we’d ever seen before. We had a refreshing swim in there and then headed to lunch. We had a wonderful lunch at the restaurant in town and it was really nice to have Alex join us. We weren’t really into the idea of going to a market since we’re not really into that kind of thing and we’d already gotten anything we wanted at the Chichen Itza site, so one of the benefits of this private tour was we had the ability to skip it. On the way back we had a few beers and then learned there was a protest on our route back. No problem-o. Omar knew a route we could take to get us back without getting jammed up in a protest. We got back to our hotel, got a group photo and we all talked the next day about what an absolutely fantastic experience this was. Make it happen folks. This is the way to do it. Zero regrets, and we’ll be sure to be taking the same route for any future tours if we’re in the area again. Thanks again Omar & Alex! You guys made it such a fantastic day! We’ll always remember it with nothing but positive memories!

Geraldine – March 19, 2024

Do not let the price of the private tour scare you away. Well worth the price even for family of 3. It is far and above worth the price-quality of tour, one on one interaction, ease of booking, travel accommodations, communication from company, or ANY special requests (departure time , breakfast choices, staying longer at Chichén Itzá or cenote). Joshua our guide and Omar our driver were wonderful. Joshua is knowledgable and informative. Clearly enjoys his work! The day starts early to avoid the long wait time to get into the park -on leaving the park saw a very long line of buses and cars. Then plenty of time for a very refreshing swim at a cenote and lunch in Valladolid. Breakfast , water , soda and snacks provided. Returned early evening to our hotel in Cancun for dinner. Highly recommend! Had NO safety concerns.

Ayesha – March 16, 2024

I read the amazing reviews before booking with this company and they definitely did not disappoint! I can definitely say that they deserve their 5 star rating! They picked us up from our hotel right at 6am, and started our way to Chichen Itza (we stopped in they way for some coffee and breads as a light breakfast), then Joshua gave us an amazing very knowledgeable tour in Chichen Itza, constantly changing between Spanish and English to accommodate all my family. After Chichen Itza we went to swim at the Cenote and then to have a delicious lunch at a wonderful restaurant in Valladolid. We had an amazing day and would recommend them to everyone!

Michelle C – March 9, 2024

Wow! I’m so exited and happy to be able to write this message. Being a tourist from another country and not knowing what you might be getting into, is hard. I told myself that if I liked this tour I would write a review and let others know that this is the real deal. First off, we were picked up on time, grabbed some juice or coffee. They had drinks (soda, waters), and snacks (chips) for us throughout the trip. We would stop for the restroom if needed. Our, first stop was Chichen itzá, and we were among the first people there, (Alex had our tickets, so we walked right in) which makes for really good pictures when no one in the background. It also makes for great weather as it gets hotter as a day goes by. We headed over to the Cenote. We were given the choice of two, and we picked the open air, one which usually is very busy, and we got really lucky that nobody was there yet, except for maybe one group of 10 which I hear is all to us considering that they get really busy. We ended up at Valladoldid for a stroll and lunch. They order ahead so we don’t wait long. This tour may be a little pricey, but I’ll tell you it’s really worth it. All the entrances are included and so is lunch (drinks not included). I would 1000 times recommend this, and if going back I will use them again for another tour to another place that they may offer. Thank you Alex, and to our driver for the great tour, you are a great tour guide and very informative. It was me and my husband and another couple friends and we all agreed that this was so fun and so worth it.

John – March 3, 2024

Alex (Alejandro) was a fantastic guide, attentive to our every need and very knowledgeable. His experience and enthusiasm were evident and he really helped us to imagine the lives of these ancient peoples in a compelling and interesting way. Rodrigo was a safe and careful driver who made the long trek easy. Together, they were a wonderful team that we would recommend very highly.

Jeffery – February 29, 2024

We embarked on a private tour of the Chichen Itza ruins, coupled with a visit to Cenote Oxman and a delightful lunch at a restaurant in Valladolid. Our guide, Alex, was punctually waiting downtown at 6:15, demonstrating their commitment to excellent service by arriving early. Accompanied by a skilled driver, we boarded a comfortable 5-passenger bus, fitting our group of 4 perfectly. The tour began with a brief stop for coffee and traditional Mexican bread before continuing towards the Chichen Itza ruins. Along the way, we made a convenient restroom break, ensuring a comfortable journey. Arriving at the ruins ahead of the crowds was a remarkable experience, made possible by Alex’s meticulous planning and organization. With our tickets in hand, courtesy of Alex, we bypassed any waiting lines, allowing us to delve straight into the historical wonders of Chichen Itza. Alex’s extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling brought the ruins to life, enriching our experience with captivating insights into their history. Overall, this tour exceeded our expectations, offering exceptional value for money and the added convenience of avoiding crowds. Alex’s enthusiasm and expertise truly made this trip enjoyable and memorable I would definitely recommend this company

Lorraine – February 29, 2024

Thank you to Arturo and Omar for a wonderful day today. Arturo was an outstanding guide. He was so knowledgeable and engaging. Omar was a safe driver and drove us down many back roads so we saw the culture of the places we visited. We are so grateful that we booked this tour. Way to go guys!

Catherine – February 28, 2024

Best experience ever! Alex and Omar were so kind and patient. Alex was incredibly informative about chichen and Mayan history. Every thing was seamless and very organized. Got to chichen early so it was cool and less crowded. Also was able to get some amazing photos. Had the best meal we had this trip in Vallodolid. Definitely a must and worth the price. Thank you Alex and Omar!

Anita – February 24, 2024

A trip we will always remember! Our sons (8) and (10) can’t stop talking about our trip to Chichen Itza. Our tour guide, Joshua, answered all of their questions and made the tour interesting for all of us! The entire day was seamless and well planned out! We would definitely recommend!!!! Especially with Joshua!

tbust-moves1 – February 23, 2024

My family cannot be more pleased with our experience with Absolute Adventures. Booking was easy and the information provided on their website was very accurate. They kept in touch as our scheduled tour approached. Our guide Alex and driver Omar were great. Alex was awesome! He was very welcoming and he made sure my family was included in the experience. What impressed me was his knowledge of Chichen Itza and the passion he has for what he does! We were very impressed with his attention to the history of the site, the culture of the people, and making sure my family was good! It is refreshing to experience someone who truly loves what they do! Thank you to Alex, Omar, and Absolute Adventure.

Travel61912345 – February 17, 2024

Wonderful private tour of Chichen Itza We really enjoyed our visit to Chichen Itza. Our guide Alex and driver Omar put us at ease right away. We learned so much on the drive there which made seeing the ruins much more meaningful and interesting. The Cenote swim was lovely and lunch was fun. It was great to get there early ahead of the crowds and the heat. All round a great day!

Julie F – February 7, 2024

We had a wonderful experience to Chichen Itza with Juan! He was extremely knowledgeable and kept our two teenage sons interested the entire time. We had to make an unexpected stop and Juan and our driver were very flexible and accommodating. I highly recommend this company!

Vacation305967 – January 28, 2024

Amazing tour and tour guide! Our tour guide was Arturo! He was absolutely amazing! Arturo was very knowledgeable, patient and kind. He also took amazing pics of me and my group I’m so glad we booked this tour it was an amazing experience! We learned a lot about the Mayan culture and the history of Chichen Itza! Since we left so early in the morning we were able to avoid all the crowds! I highly recommend this tour!

Vy – January 28, 2024

If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable way to explore the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, I highly recommend booking a private tour with this company. The tour was well-organised, informative, and fun! Our guide Juan was very knowledgeable and passionate about the history and culture of the site, and he answered all our questions with enthusiasm. He also took us to some hidden spots that were not crowded with tourists, and we got to see some amazing views and details that we would have missed otherwise. The private tour also included a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, and a refreshing swim at a nearby cenote. The whole experience was worth every penny, and we learned so much about the fascinating civilisation that once thrived there. This was definitely the highlight of our trip, and we are so glad we chose this option.

Craig – January 20, 2024

Great experience! Great gude! We visited Chichen Izta 22 years ago and decided to revisit. Such a remarkable place. Our guide and driver were very professional and very knowledgeable. Joshua and Enrique took very good care of us. My wife has limited mobility and they made sure we had enough time to enjoy all our activities. We went to a cenote and then to a nice lunch at a local restaurant in Valladolid. After that we had free time to shop and look around the main plaza. But what sold us on this particular guide service is that they are a small local business that does it right. They will customize a tour to fit whatever you want to do. We highly recommend this company. Thanks again to Joshua and Enrique.

David – January 11, 2024

You can’t go wrong choosing this company! Honestly, it was an absolutely fabulous day out. Joshua (tour guide) and Enrique (driver) were great. We had the best time ever! Thank you guys

Robert – January 5, 2024

Great family experience Joshua was so patient with our family and provided great information on all the spots we visited but especially Chichen Itza. And our driver Rodrigo got us around safely and on time! I highly recommend starting EARLY. We left Playa del Carmen at 6:15 and arrived at Chichen Itza just before the gates opened at 8am. No lines! On our way out, a couple of hours later the line of vans and buses was sooo long. And the site was very crowded. And we got back to our hotel in time to shower and get ready for our dinner reservation. I also like that we could adjust our day as we went. We opted for more time at Chichen Itza and the Cenote (also very few people and GORGEOUS) and less time at Valladolid. I would highly recommend this tour!

Cathie – January 2, 2024

Wonderful experience! Juan was the best guide we have experienced! Efficient, Informative, great personality, just an overall perfect tour. My whole family was taken care of down to every little detail! I will definitely be booking another tour and will be requesting Juan! Thank you for a wonderful day!

Dylan – January 2, 2024

Using Absolute Adventure for a Chichen Itza tour is a no-brainer. They get you there early and have a plan of attack that avoids lines and crowds as much as possible. We were appalled at the sea of humanity that was in line to get in as we were done for the day and leaving. Plus, we gained so much more knowledge than if we had been on our own.

Sanjay – December 30, 2023

Just like they promised! This was an incredible, personal, and educational experience. Enrique got us from place to place safely and Alex is an excellent guide. Knowledgeable and friendly. One can tell he really cares about the material and the beauty and wonder that the Mayan civilization represents. This also was NOT a tour that puts you in a position to visit stores or tequila tastings. Just exactly what they promise. The cenote is an amazing geological destination. Will definitely use Absolute Adventures again and highly recommend!

Anitha – December 28, 2023

Private tour of Chichen Itza with Josh We had a private tour of Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid with Joshua. Incredibly nice tour guide. Very knowledgeable. In the morning, coffee and bread was included. Lunch was included, not too bad but small portions so beware of that. Snacks and beverages were included on bus. Our tour started at 6:30 am, recommend going early before the crowds. Definitely recommend Josh.

Brady – December 26, 2023

Juan was an amazing tour guide. He was considerate, knowledgeable, friendly, and very fun! He helped us beat the crowds of ppl and provided us an easy and awesome experience. Would 100% book with him again.

Bonnie – December 25, 2023

Amazing and Memorable tour of Chichen Itza My husband and I booked a private tour to Chichen Itza and what an amazing experience it was! We had the pleasure of having Alex as our guide, who is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also very interesting with a wonderful personality. We learned so much from him! The tour itself is timed perfectly, allowing for sufficient time at all of our destinations. Additionally, our driver Omar is amazing and made us feel safe the entire trip. Lastly, I’d like to thank Claire for being super timely and responsive to all the questions I had prior to booking. We will definitely be scheduling all future tours with Absolute Adventure!

Jake – December 20, 2023

Great tour of Chichen Itza, local cenote and restaurant/town. Tour guide and driver were incredible, would definitely recommend!

Bryon – November 24, 2023

Incredible experiences! We had Alex (Alejandro) as our tour guide for two days and Omar as our driver. Alex knew exactly how to get us to all the sites when no one else was there and was able to work with us to pick the best cenotes to visit. The food at both the Valladolid restaruant (for Chichen) and the jungle (for Tulum/Akumal/cenotes) was AMAZING! Seriously cannot say enough about how attentive Claire was with needs like a booster seat/drinks, etc.. and how amazing our experiences were. Getting up early and having your own private van (so we could stop for snacks, etc..) and the RIGHT GUIDE is everything.

Doug – November 23, 2023

Great trip beautifully orchestrated We had a superb experience. We were staying at a lovely resort in Riviera Maya. We booked this trip via TripAdvisor because of the superb reviews. I had some concerns in advance because we were devoting a full day to this and needed it to be worthwhile. It was great. The tour operator (and this was run by owners, not just a broker) did a great job communicating with us in advance. We were picked up at their recommendation at 6:45 which was a great idea because we stayed just ahead of throngs of tourists on Thanksgiving Day – they were pouring in as we were leaving both Chichén Itza and the Cenote. Our guide, Carlos, was a joy. He was super knowledgeable and a great communicator (impeccable English in our case). He’d been to CI thousands of times but there was nothing rote about how he guided us during the day. CI was about 2.5 hours from our resort, so it was a long day, but it was worth it. CI is breathtaking and the Cenote experience was easy and a lot of fun. The lunch was quite good. The whole day was paced just right. Great value, great guide, great day.

Wendy – November 22, 2023

Do things that take your breath away…. The tour from the start was great … Pick up was on time … No language barrier !…. The drive was great, nice roads… JAYJAY (Juan) was great… My family loves history and he answered all questions … I hope he enjoyed us as much as we did him! Alexander loved his job on the tour! 😉 When we come back we will not hesitate and book with them again…

Annie H – October 25, 2023

Glad we booked you! Great day out learning about Mayan culture. Artura our guide and Carlos our driver were fabulous. Artura’s tour of Chichen Itza was informative and combined stories, questions and many interesting pieces of information including some basic Mayan words which were met with joy from the many stall sellers. The whole day was seamless with entry to all sites smooth and pleasant. The connote was spectacular and we had the whole experience to ourselves with one other couple… Amazing. You get what you pay for, a personalised experience with fabulous and talented staff. We are so glad we chose to visit with you.. thank you

Emily – October 9, 2023

One of a kind private tour This was our second time using Absolute Adventure Mexico. We were so impressed the first time we toured with them in Tulum, we wanted to book with them for our tour to Chichen Itza. We are so happy we did! We arrived first thing in the morning, before any of the other tours, so we had Chichen Itza all to ourselves with the exception of a local dog! Our guide Arturo was great! Very knowledgeable and told us about the historical and cultural aspects of the sacred grounds, all while keeping us as hydrated and shaded as possible. Once our tour conclude, we passed thousands of other folks pouring in from the larger tours as we were exiting. Our driver Carlos stayed with the van and our belongings the entirety of our trip, while was awesome and helps ease any concerns you may have about storing your belongings. We then made our way to X’keken cenote which was underground in what would typically be considered a cave, but was actually a cenote due to the small opening at the center of the cavern. It was a bit dark and mysterious, but still a delightful swim. After we change into dry clothes, we stopped at Valladolid where we learned about the cultural significance of the city and enjoyed a delicious authentic lunch with a view of the majestic church. We walked around the city and then had free time to explore the shopping square. Once we were ready, we headed back to our hotel. It was an amazing adventure and I highly recommend Absolute Adventure Mexico if you’re considering a tour. You will not be disappointed that you chose a private tour where you beat all the crowds!

Stacy – September 7, 2023

Alex and Omar – Fantastic Day in Chichen Itza! We can’t say enough about how much we enjoyed our day trip with Alex and Omar! Alex’s knowledge of the Mayan culture and Chichen Itza was amazing. He made the 2 plus hour van ride from Puerto Juarez to Chichen Itza fly by. CI was pretty busy on the day of our visit, but Alex kept us moving and knew how to avoid the crowds, without missing any of the things we wanted to see up close. Our visit to the cenote after was just what we had hoped for, with plenty of time to swim and appreciate the beauty of the place. We stopped for a delicious lunch in a quaint restaurant followed by the ride back to the ferry landing. Alex and Omar were the utmost professionals. We are a mother and young adult daughter traveling together and we felt completely safe on this tour. It was a special day and given the opportunity we would take another tour with Absolute Adventure without hesitation! Thank you Alex and Omar!

C.W. – August 23, 2023

Amazing tour, amazing guide, skilled driver. I can’t remember taking a better tour than our tour today with Juan as our guide. He was engaging and knowledgeable, funny and encouraged all of our questions. Chichen Itza was magical first thing in the morning before the heat and crowds. The cenote was quite and uncrowded, and Valladolid was lovely, although we were rained out before we could really enjoy everything it had to offer. We did wander into a lovely little shop that ended up as a tequila tasting. Pineapple tequila might be my new favorite! But the chocolate tequila is in the running. Our driver navigated the wet, almost flooded roads with confidence and skill. We were back to our hotel in time for a swim before dinner.

Carrie W – August 22, 2023

The Best tour we’ve taken here! We went to Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid today. It was spectacular. Our guide, Juan, was fun and engaging as well as extremely knowledgeable. My husband, grandson, and I agree that the tour today was fun as well as informative. Juan was able to guide us through Chichen Itza in a way that ensured we were often the only visitors in any given area- it was amazing. The cenote was secluded and far from crowded. Lunch was a very good choice, and we appreciated the recommendations . We ate al fresco, in a courtyard next to the Cathedral. We got caught in a rainstorm Valladolid, but it was still very beautiful. Our drive home was very wet, but our driver, I believe his name was Carlos, handled the sometimes flooded roads with ease and confidence. I cannot recommend this tour highly enough, and would definitely use them again. Thanks so much!

Andrew – August 10, 2023

Amazing guided trip done by JJ! Our trip included Chichen-Itza, a dip into a beautiful cenote, and lunch at a delicious restaurant. JJ’s guided walk around Chichen-Itza was amazing. He is so full of knowledge and had an answer to literally every question that we asked him. We learned a lot about not only the area, but the culture as well. He picked a cenote for us that was gorgeous but not too crowded so we could truly enjoy it. The restaurant he brought us to at the end of the trip was delicious and wonderful. It even had two turtles in a little fountain! Go with JJ if you want to book a tour and learn the history of the area and be with a super fun and friendly guide!

V A – July 14, 2023

We visited Mexico for the first time early July 2023. We knew we wanted to visit some ruins but couldn’t decide on a tour company. To say I am beyond happy we decided to go private with Absolute Adventure Mexico is an under statement! Alex was the best tour guide. He enjoys what he does and he is super personable . He made us feel comfortable and some how some way we felt we were the only ones in Chichén Itzá and at the cenote we visited. He truly made our trip! thank you so much and when we return I will surely contact AAM!

Corbin – July 7, 2023

Altogether, the tour was awesome. Juan was really great guiding, catering, and had an abundance of knowledge about Mayan/Mexican culture, and Carlos did a great job of getting is to our destinations safe. Chichen Itza exceed all expectations and the cenote was beautiful! To top it off, the lunch at El Atrio in Tulum was *chefs kiss*. I would highly recommend anyone wanting to visit Chichen Itza to book this tour! Thanks again Juan and Carlos!

Aurora – June 21, 2023

Me and my family visited Playa Del Carmen and took two tours with an amazing guide Alex. During the ride our guide Alex, gave us unique information on mayan culture and history regarding the ruins. We went to swim in the cenote Samula and ate lunch in Valladolid. Our guide was amazing and did great with keeping 20 of us together and entertained for both adventures!!!

Maura – June 18, 2023

Great experience with excellent guide. Pick up was smooth and on time. A convenience store stop after our 6 am pick up was perfect for our needs. Our guide, Arturo, was knowledgeable, friendly, easy going, great with kids, and very informative. He guided us through Chichenitza in just the way we needed. We chose our cenote swim based upon his recommendations and enjoyed it tremendously. He helped us avoid the crowds and was flexible in regards to our kids needs. The lunch was excellent… we shopped a little at the end in town all based upon what we wanted to do. The return back to our hotel was smooth. The company Absoute Adventure Mexico is outstanding in their customer service. Great company.

Pilar – April 25, 2023

We did two excursions with Absolute Adventure and they were great. We were lucky to have the same guide, Alex, for both excursions and we were delighted with him. We chose to do the excursions first thing in the morning, being able to avoid the crowds at all times and enjoying the places practically by ourselves, something that was very important to us. The Chichen Itza excursion has a very long transfer part, but with Alex’s explanations it becomes very enjoyable. The visit itself is spectacular, and you enjoy it much more when you understand what you are seeing thanks to his explanations. For the cenote we were lucky to be able to enjoy it practically alone, which makes the experience even better. The food in the Valladolid restaurant was very good, both in terms of taste and quality, they treated us very well and we enjoyed true regional food. Both drivers, Omar and Carlos, were very nice all the time, always making sure that we didn’t lack for anything. In short, I recommend 100% Absolute Adventure.

Grettel – April 24, 2023

Juan José was our tour guide and Carlos was our driver and let me tell you how amazing they made our experience! They were punctual on coming to get us, so knowledgeable on the Chichén Itzá and even tought us a few words. After he took us to the Cenotes(spring water cave) and it was absolutely breathtaking! After we went to have lunch in the cutest little town near by and the food was amazing, we walked around and seen the little town before taking us back to our hotel. It was so nice to spend the day with them and I will be recommending him to EVERYONE I know! Juan José is such a nice genuine person who you can tell is so passionate about his job and loves to teach people the history of the Mayan people!

Adam – March 28, 2023

These guys did a great job! They were punctual, friendly and extremely knowledgeable. Juan was our guide and was great with our kids, funny, smart, and a lot of fun. Would highly recommend it. Some might be scared off by the early start, but don’t be! To get to Chichén Itzá early without the crowds of tourists and vendors was totally worth it. We also loved the cenote and the place we ate in Valladolid. It was a great day and worth every penny.

Jen – February 28, 2023

Wonderful tour!! We did a day long to Citizen Itza and swim at a cenote. Every detail was looked after, including a few unexpected ones that came up during the tour. Alejandro (our guide) and Rodriguez (our driver) were super knowledgeable, polite, considerate, and took excellent care of us, including my 80 year old parents. Highly recommend!

Sarah – February 14, 2023

We booked 4 private tours with Absolute Adventure Mexico and all of them were fantastic! I would highly recommend! We had a group of 14 adults and 3 kids under 3 years old for the Tulum and Cenote tour and everything went wonderfully. We also did the Three Cenote Tour, Reef Snorkeling in Puerto Morelos and ChiChen Itza tour. We had Juan as our guide on all 4 tours and he is AMAZING! He had so much fun with him as our guide.

Katel – February 10, 2023

Perfect day of exploration & tradition. Perfectly planned day. Beat the crowds at Chichen Itza. Beat the heat in the cenote. Followed by a delicious, traditional lunch in Valladolid and some city shopping. Dulce was so knowledgeable and gracious as our companion and guide for the day. Highly recommend 💫💗

Lynda – February 5, 2023

Incredible experience – Tour Guide makes it special. The private tour was absolutely incredible, mainly because of our excellent tour guide Alex & Omar. Alex was extremely knowledgeable about the Mayan culture and took his time showing us all aspects. He was patient in letting us look around. On the van trip he told stories of the culture to prepare us and made sure we had drinks and snacks on the long trip. Highly recommend.

Janine – January 2, 2023

Best Chichen Itza Tour! Our group of five had a wonderful, informative visit to Chichen Itza, a fun swim in a cenote, and a delicious lunch. We highly recommend booking. Our guide, Dulce, was excellent. She and Rodrigo, our trusty driver, shepherded us through the entire day so smoothly, from hotel pickup to drop-off. They handled all the details so we could just soak up the experiences. We learned a lot about the archeological site, and Dulce handled all our questions deftly. (Plus she was just fun to talk with 🙂 Reserving online and communication with company prior to tour was seamless. Don’t hesitate to book!

Lance – December 31, 2022

the only way to see Chichen Itzá. Hundred percent the best option to see the ruins, swim, and lunch. The private tour allowed us to beat all the crowds and we had the ruins and cenote basically to ourselves. On the way out, the busses and people were pouring in. Juan, our guide was fantastic and his knowledge and humor was awesome. Omar was a great driver and we felt safe at all times. My wife and I and our 3 teenage children had am amazing experiences with a fabulous lunch. Could not recommend more.

Cherylyn – December 27, 2022

Superb experience! Our driver, Omar and our guide, Juan J, treated us to such a delightful day. Juan J was so informative and really showed us what the ruin was used for and helped us understand that time in history. The cenote experience was magical. Don’t leave the area without experiencing one! We had the MOST delicious lunch in the colonial town of Valladolid and enjoyed wandering around the square. The van was comfy and we had a very special day to remember. They did all the work, accommodated our wants and we had all the fun! I would highly recommend Absolute Adventures!

Maria – December 24, 2022

Great accessible tour. Alex G was a kind and knowledgeable tour guide. He was very attendant to the needs of my mother who was in a wheelchair. He answered all of my kids questions with enthusiasm and care. He spoke both English and Spanish which was very helpful for my kids who are still learning Spanish. Rodrigo was a great and safe driver. He was polite and helped my mom get in and out of van and onto her wheelchair. You can tell that both Alex and Rodrigo get along well and are a great team. Highly recommend this tour and guides/driver. Lunch was great too! And the whole trip went smoothly.

Arlin – October 26, 2022

This was an excellent tour and I would highly recommend it. Our tour guide Juan was the best and made this adventure a memorable one. I was with a group of 19 people and Juan not only kept the group together all the time, he was able to keep us on time to each of the destinations we needed to get to. Juan was very knowledgable about each location’s history. He kept the talks short and fun and answered any questions we had. Our group had two shuttle vans equipped with snacks and drinks. The shuttle picked our group up from our AirBnb early in the morning to make it to our first stop the Chichen Itza Ruins. Juan knew how to time everything so we would beat the crowds! After the ruins we went to a Cenote. We stayed there until everyone got hungry and it started getting busy. After the Cenote we had lunch at a nice restaurant in Valladolid. Following lunch we had time to explore the city of Valladolid by foot. This was our last destination before heading back to our Airbnb. Again thanks to Juan, the shuttle drivers and the Absolute Adventure Mexico Group for making this trip amazing. It was very organized and fun!

Ashley – October 15, 2022

Amazing!! Jose was such a great tour guide. We were a large group of 19 and we all agreed that he had the experience that much more memorable

Iris – October 3, 2022

Dulce and Carlos made this one of the most memorable vacations. Dulce made our experience one of the best with her knowledge of Chichén Itza and the Oxman Cenote. The two made us feel like VIP’s. Carlos was the perfect driver! We will definitely book again!!

Juan A – August 29, 2022

We did and excursion to the Chichen Itzá and Cenote.Are driver Carlos and the tour person Alex they take good care of us we are very happy with the services and most definitely will used them again for the future.Thank you again Carlos and Alex great job.

Donald – August 22, 2022

This was one of our best tour experiences ever and our guide Juan was fantastic and very knowledgeable. It felt like we spent the day with a great friend.

Boranya – August 22, 2022

We had absolutely wonderful time during our private tour – Chichen-Itza & Cenote. Comfortable transportation, friendly stuff and excellent customer service. Our driver and tour guide – Rodrigo and Alex were amazing. Highly recommend 🔝

Hillary – August 4, 2022

We loved our tour of Chichen Itza and our visit to the cenote. Juan was our tour guide and he made the day wonderful. He was attentive, flexible, knowledgeable, and very helpful. We enjoyed the history and information in Chichen Itza before coming off in the gorgeous cenote. Lunch was delicious, especially when following Juan’s recommendation. Would highly recommend this tour and Juan!

Tasmin – July 11, 2022

We had a great tour with Alex, Claire and Omar. We had a very early start but it was worth it to get to Chichen Itza before the crowds. Alex and Claire were really knowledgable and great to talk to about the history of the Mayans. The tour is relaxed and you’re able to spend as much time as you want on the different parts of the tour. Would really recommend this to anyone who wants a more personalised experience!

Luca I. – July 10, 2022

Our two families of adults and teens enjoyed a this amazing tour. We chose to leave our Cancun resort at 5:30 am, and it was definitely the right call, as we arrived at Chichen Itza before the heat and the crowds. Our friendly and knowledgeable tour guide, Alex, and driver Rodrigo were an excellent team, as we learned a ton and kept us all engaged. The cenote swim exceeded any expectations, and is something we will never forget. Awe-inspiring and beautiful, we are so glad we did this. The lunch at Vallodolid was a great choice. We SO appreciated the delicious food in such a beautiful town. This was an unforgettable adventure, and we cannot recommend this enough. Thank you, Alex, and Absolute Adventures!

Heidi – July 3, 2022

Excellent tour and highly recommended! Juan, our tour guide and Omar, our driver, were absolutely amazing! They provided a private tour of Chichen Itza, the Cenote and Valladolid. We enjoyed a delicious traditional Mexican lunch at Atrio. Juan was very knowledgeable and will definitely request them on any future travels to Cancun. We highly recommend them.

Dana – June 28, 2022

Perfect excursion We had an absolutely amazing adventure from start to finish with our private tour to Chichen Itza, swimming in a cenote and lunch and walking around Vallodolid! Claire was an incredible guide- She gave us so much info and patiently let us explore and ask questions about everything that we saw. They were punctual and friendly and we really enjoyed the 12 hours of the tour. I had a few questions before I booked and Claire answered them quickly. She was good about reaching out prior to the tour and was very easy to communicate with. The arrival at one minute until opening was perfectly timed so that we could get the best pictures of Chichen Itza and explore before it was too hot. She suggested the pick up time from our hotel so that we could get this accomplished and the day went perfectly. We almost had the cenote to ourselves and she took awesome pictures of our whole family. The lunch was delicious and it was great to be in authentic Mexican culture. We had our three children with us and they thoroughly enjoyed the entire day. We will absolutely use this company again on our future visits to explore other ruins, cenotes, and animal adventures. We have already recommended this to a few people and will continue to tell people about our excursion! Thank you for a fabulous day!

Dan – June 10, 2022

Wow – what an incredible day. Alex and Omar took incredible care of us and showed us all the sights of Chichen Itza, followed by an unforgettable swim in a gorgeous cenote (the kids loved jumping off the platform) and then a delicious lunch in picturesque Valladolid.

Vicky – May 25, 2022

Absolutely amazing! Waking up early on vacation isn’t always the first thing you wanna do. But it is definitely worth it to beat the crowds, heat and able to have certain sites practically all to yourself! Juan was friendly, professional and very knowledgeable about the Mayan Ruins and cenotes. Loved lunch in town with delicious food! Will definitely recommend this to others and excited to see another soon with them!

Sophie – May 18, 2022

We had Juan as our guide and Carlos as our driver, and it was such a amazing experience. Our guide had so many wonderful facts and was very personable, easy to talk too. Carlos will get you where you need to be safe and swiftly.

Ben W – April 20, 2022

Second time using Absolute Adventure Mexico and my decision to be a repeat customer was absolutely the correct one. Last time we did Tulum, cenote and swimming with the turtles. Fantastic time. This time Chichen Itza, cenote and lunch. Day started early at 530 from PDC. Take their advice and make it an early morning. Juan (guide) and Carlos (driver) were waiting when we got the front our hotel. We stopped to get coffee and a snack on the long drive inland. Juan was very personable throughout the day and made sure we were comfortable at every step. We arrived at Chichen Itza just as they were opening at 8AM. Juan gave us a very thorough tour while also allowing us to “guide” the tour based on what we were interested in. It truly is a fantastic place. We learned so much more having a private guide than we would have trying to do it as part of a large group. Juan’s expertise made sure to maximize the time we spent there which was just enough. The crowds were really piling in as we were leaving. We were able to get many pictures where we were the only people in them. Can’t do that if you arrive even mid morning. From there we went to a cenote for a quick swim. I can’t recall the name but there were only three other people in the cenote the same time we were. Juan took care of my camera and my fiance’s phone while we were in the water. We stayed there for about 30 minutes. We were the ones that decided how long and I’m sure we could have stayed longer but we had to get back to our hotel for our covid test. From there we went to Valladolid for a wonderful lunch. The restaurant was beautiful and food was very good. We walked around town a bit but wanted to make sure we got back timely. Overall another top notch experience. I was hesitant the first time we used Absolute Adventures just because the cost for 2 people is a little high. But, you pay for what you get. And I think we had two wonderful experiences. After our first experience, I didn’t hesitate using them again. Juan was very personable and eager to accommodate our few requests. You can tell he is well known and that helps with lines, etc. Carlos our driver was very nice and safe throughout the long day. We never felt at risk. Overall, we couldn’t have had a better time and am very thankful to Juan and Carlos for helping make this a trip we will never forget!!

T & D – April 18, 2022

5 stars just cant possibly represent how amazing and how unique of an experience you get with them . They have been the best , very helpful from start to finish (from when we were in Canada till the end of our Tours) .They were Very informative and very respectful. We highly recommend them as this has truly been the best Tour experience we have ever had . We will definitely be seeing them again when we are back. Juan and Clare did a fantastic Job and I cannot thank them enough for the absolutely amazing adventures and experience that we had. Thank you again and we will definitely see you again soon!

Russels Family – April 14, 2022

Omar (the driver) and Jose Manuel were great! First we went to Chichen Itza and stayed there for about 2 hours. It was amazing! But, we made sure to leave our hotel at 5:30 AM. This was very important because we got there before the crowd and the heat hit. Also, Juan new all the special info about this place and took amazing photos! Next, we went to Cenote! It was absolutely beautiful! Omar and Juan also gave us water and chips! Yumm! There was hardly anyone there! Last, we went to one of Jose’s favorite places for lunch. It was yummy and a gorgeous setting. They also let us walk around down town if we wanted. But it was a bit to hit by then. Thank you Jose and Omar!

Ericka – April 5, 2022

The guide (JJ) was amazing! Super personable and knowledgeable about the Mayan culture. Rodrigo was a fantastic driver. The two made a great combo and our group thoroughly enjoyed the day. Highly recommend using them to tour ruins and cenotes as they made the day super easy and fun.

Tom – April 4, 2022

Our group of 10 had a wonderful time. Rodrigo was an expert driver with a comfortable vehicle and we can’t say enough praise for Juan “JJ”. He was so fun, informative and made our experience visiting the Tulum and Cota ruins, followed by 2 cenotes even better!

MavEryck69 – March 26, 2022

A group of 12 of us went to Chichén Itzá with Juan and Rodrigo. We had a blast! It was awesome to have such a knowledgeable tour guide! Having a private tour van on standby helped the experience also 👍🏾 You absolutely have to go for a swim in a Cenote!!!

Elissa – January 16, 2022

An unforgettable experience! Unbelievable and memorable day with Juan and Omar. Omar is an excellent driver and Juan is an exceptional tour guide. They spent a very long day with us and their attention and enthusiasm never waned. We especially appreciated the private tour during Covid and felt safe the entire time. Juan gives the perfect amount of information and history. Couldn’t have had a better day with @absoluteadventure.

Paul B – January 3, 2022

Magical tour of Chichen Itsa with Juan, a very knowledgeable guide who was a great guy. Very professional and made sure we had food and drink on our journey also. Juan will not bore you or your children with too much information but will always have an answer and expand on facts if you are inquisitive. The Cenotes was also an amazing experience and again we were well looked after. The meal in Valladolid was excellent and the restaurant was very charming as were the streets of the town we walked around after, real Mexico. Highly recommend this company and these sites are a must see.

Nancy – December 8, 2021

Amazing Day! I can’t thank Manuel and Omar enough for our tour yesterday! We arrived in Chichen Itza early and before crowds. Manuel is extremely knowledgeable of Mayan history and shared his expertise with enthusiasm. He answered all of our questions with ease. A very enjoyable individual! Swimming in the cenotes is a can’t miss experience! Manuel took photos for us throughout the day. The lunch in Valladolid was excellent! Omar is a driver with top notch safety standards. I highly recommend this company for any tour!

Robert – December 3, 2021

Amazing day trip! Our guide, Juan, was fantastic! Highly recommend!

Kayla – November 24, 2021

Seriously the highlight of our trip! Both our driver and guide went above and beyond expectations! Chris was our guide and was such a pleasure to talk to and get to know during the drive and throughout the entire tour. We did the Chitzen Itza tour and a swim in a cenote, both were amazing once in a lifetime experiences! Chris was so knowledgeable with all of the history about where we went and even the areas we drove through. He took FLAWLESS photos of us everywhere we went, he knew just the right spot and angle for everything we did to make the pictures looks great.They also go out of their way to get the tickets for the places you will visit in advance so there is virtually no waiting! This experience was worth every penny and gave us amazing memories. Our only regret is that we did not take a selfie with Chris to remember him by. We cannot wait to come back and book these guys for our next adventure, we will absolutely be using them whenever we are in the area!

Jason – November 21, 2021

On 17 Nov 2021 we had a wonderful day with Rodrigo and Juan from our hotel in Cancun. They were fabulous guides. The transportation was a comfortable, large air conditioned van. The took us to Chichen Itza and then to a beautiful, breathtaking, swim in a cavernous cenote. Later we were treated to a wonderful lunch and shopping in a beautiful small town along our route. What a great day it was. Ask for these two guys by name. You won’t be disappointed. I highly recommend them. Jason and family from Alaska

Eli – November 14, 2021

Good tour company – we had fun on our Chichen Itza trip with them.

Andrea – November 6, 2021

First we would like to thank Omar for driving, waiting for us while we toured. He is an extremely safe and careful driver and greatly appreciated. Secondly, Manuel is the best guide we have ever had. He is knowledgeable, funny and doesn’t rush you through the sites. We love the restaurant in Valladolid, El Atrio. This meal was the best meal we’ve had so far on our trip. Manuel gave us suggestions on what to order and food that is native to the Mayan culture. We throughly enjoyed the meal and chatting with Manuel. We started early and visited Chichén Itzá prior to the large crowd and heat. Manuel educated us on the history and preservation of the ruins. We cannot thank Manuel and Omar enough for this amazing tour! Manuel is a true gem! Thank you again! Andrea & Darlene

Julia – September 12, 2021

Thanks a lot for an amazing tour! We will be back, Julia & Fred

Sabby – August 11, 2021

Juan and Pasquale were amazing and made the trip for my family. Juan gives such a personal and informative tour of Chichen Itza that really makes you feel like you’re learning something you didn’t know before and you wouldn’t have known without someone like him. Chichen Itza is absolutely beautiful and rightfully one of the great wonders of the world (the Cenotes are the only thing that could possibly give the ancient ruins a run for their money). The food at Valladolid is also something I will NEVER forget and I will be chasing that level of deliciousness for the rest of my life! Thank you Juan and Pasquale!!

Kenda – April 26, 2021

I cannot recommend this day tour or these people enough! Chris was our guide and made the whole experience fun, entertaining & comfortable. All we did was show up in the lobby of our hotel and he took care of the rest. We never wanted for anything…coffee & danish for the ride there; snacks & beverages throughout the day. We started at the ruins, which were incredible. Chris was extremely knowledgeable of the history & answered all our questions. Next stop, a refreshing swim in the beautifuI Cenotes. We ended our day with a fabulous lunch & shopping in Valladolid. Shout out to Juan as well – our faithful driver who kept all our belongings safe & secure while we were off adventuring. Thank you for an unforgettable experience. I would 100% book another tour with them.

Aja – December 2, 2020

My wife and I did both the Chichen Itza, Valladolid, and cenote tour as well as the Tulum and swimming with the sea turtles tour last week on our honeymoon in Cancun. Everything about both tours was absolutely amazing. Our driver was wonderful and safe and our guide was friendly, helpful, and very insightful. We thoroughly enjoyed our time and would definitely use Absolute Adventure Mexico again. Thank you so much for an unforgettable time!

Megan – October 29, 2020

This tour was the highlight of our trip! Highly recommend, ask for Claire!

James – December 21, 2019

A group of four adults took the private tour of Chichen Itza through Absolute Adventure and had a great time. They promptly picked us up directly from our hotel and Chris was a fantastic tour guide the whole time. Very knowledgeable, and great conversation just getting to know the area. Absolutely follow their advice to leave EARLY. They’re not kidding when it goes from busy to packed later morning when dozens (if not hundreds) of tour buses arrive. Lunch was a very delicious, authentic Mayan food. The Cenotes were also really neat to see, and while they aren’t the best known ones, it means that it’s also much quieter and not super crowded.

I really appreciated that throughout the whole tour it really went at our pace. If we wanted to stay somewhere longer/shorter we did. Chris was very accommodating and did a great job throughout.

I would absolutely take another tour with Chris or Absolute Adventure again. And while it is more expensive than many of the other options, you get so much more out of it by having a private, personal guide the whole time.

Sun – November 26, 2019

First of all having a private tour is a must if you want to be at Chichen-Itza without the crowds AND if you want to learn the most about the Toltec/Mayan structures and civilization. Our guide, Hector was incredibly knowledgeable and even shared some of his own personal theories. He seemed more excited than we were to share and leave us with not only an unforgettable experience but with a much greater sense and history of the Mayan people.

Kristen – September 11, 2019

We loved Hector!! Best tour guide! We went to Chichen Itza & 2 Cenotes..Hector was so friendly and talkative. The private tours are the way to go..Clean van, early pick up at our resort, bathroom breaks, delicious mayan food, lots of knowledge, and photos! Thank you for the wonderful experience!

Laura HART – June 17, 2019

Amazing experience! This was the highlight of our vacation!

We were blessed to have Juan as our guide and Rodrigo as our driver on two amazing tours with Absolute Adventures May 21st and 23rd! We booked the two tours over their website-Tulum/Coba one day and Chichen Itza/2 Cenotes the next. The Cenotes were a last minute add on for the second tour and Claire made that happen with no issues. We corresponded via email before the trip and that made things simple. Pick-up from our RIU resort in Playacar was right on time and Juan was absolutely right to “gently” nudge us to move up our pick up time for Chichen Itza. It’s a long drive (2-2.5 hrs)and it was very, very hot; an early start from our location was a must. Pickup at 5:30 am got us back to resort just after 5:00 pm. Both tours were loads of fun and Juan shared the extremely interesting History of the Maya civilization. On both tours we had a great driver, Rodrigo. We always felt safe and he was very courteous while getting us where we needed to go. On both tours they had drinks (water, pop, beer) and some snacks but feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks. Also on both tours we had an amazing lunch at a local restaurant-best food we had on the entire vacation! Juan was very nice and extremely helpful; we really felt taken care of on the tours. The 2 Cenotes were a wonderful way to cool off after a hot day, so glad we added them! Shopping in Valladolid was great with lots of shops if you like that kind of thing. We felt safe during this “free-time” to explore and shop. Lots of vendors at Chichen Itza too. I’m not a shopping nut on vacation, so that was a bit annoying to me. If you like to shop-bring pesos! You get a better deal than with dollars. Both days we returned to the resort in plenty of time for dinner. They will go at your pace-if you would like to speed it up or slow it down, just tell your guide. Overall, these three American ladies had an amazing time with Juan as our guide. If we ever return, we will definitely request Juan. These tours cost more than others but having a private van and your very own, hands on guide made it well worth it! We saw bus after bus coming into the sites and we were always happy to be in our own van getting there early before the rush. Thank you to Chris and Claire for making the booking process so easy and to Juan and Rodrigo for making our “Mother/Daughter” trip a vacation to remember. Book with these folks, request Juan and Rodrigo and you will not regret it!

Mc from Alaska – June 16, 2019

BEST PRIVATE TOUR EVER!!!! Juan is AMAZING! We had such a wonderful time, well worth it every penny. We were running a little late but we still got to our destination before it got overly crowded. One of the best experiences we had. Thank you Absolute adventure for offering great options for tours. Juan took the best pictures of us, hands down the best tour guide in Mexico!!

RELAX – June 14, 2019

Leah – May 27, 2019

We are so glad we choose Absolute Adventure Mexico! Our guide, Juan, was so knowledgeable and so friendly . He went above and beyond to make sure we had the best experience possible! if you want a great experience with a personal guide who will make sure you get it then spend a little more and book your tours with this company. You won’t regret it!

Henrietta P – April 12, 2019

Excellent tour “We had a wonderful tour with Claire to Chichen Itza. She was personally lovely, very punctual (6.30am sharp at the hotel), hugely knowledgeable about the site and the Mayan people (very helpful colourful booklet which helped us to visualise how it originally looked) and sensitive to the needs of our whole family (ages 3, 12 and 15; navigating with a buggy, who needs suncream, water and needs a rest). We could not recommend her company more highly. Thank you again for a wonderful day, we could not recommend this company more highly.”

Judd Ekdahl – April 4, 2019

Chichen Itza and Cenote tour We had a great tour. Pascual and Manuel picked us up at our resort and drove us to Chichen Itza. We had an excellent tour with a seasoned Maya guide, we followed this up with lunch and a cenote swim. The restaurant in Valladolid was excellent. We had a great Mayan meal in a beautiful garden courtyard opposite a 16th century church. We swam in a covered cenote and were returned home. The drive stayed with the van and our extra belongs while we were on excursion and eating. Drinks and snacks were provided. Our guide was enthusiastic and knowledgable. The duration of stay at each place was tailored to our needs at the time. We are a family of 4 with two older children (16 and 20). I highly recommend Absolute Adventure and would go on another of their tours when next in the Playa del Carmen area.

TRAVELING F – March 10, 2019

We thoroughly enjoyed our private tour to Chichen Itza! The driver and guide were on time and picked us up at the hotel. It was just over a two hour drive, but we were one of the first inside. The guide was very knowledgeable and customized the information back to what interested us. We visited two cenotes, both absolutely beautiful! Neither of us swim so we didn’t stay long but you’re allotted time to swim. Afterward, we went to lunch, which was also included in the cost. The food was delicious Mexican with handmade corn tortillas. It was expensive, but it was just me and my boyfriend and taylor made to what we wanted. Perfect. I would highly recommend!

Jeremiah – December 26, 2018

We had a great trip to Chichen Itza that included door-to-door service, lunch, private tour, and 2 cenotes. Well worth it and I would hire Absolute again.

Dan – October 24, 2018

An early start proved to be worthwhile to avoid the crowds and heat of the day. The vehicle was comfortable with plenty of space for the 3 of us. Our excellent driver was considerate and looked after our rucksacks whilst visiting the various sites. Juan was an informative guide, bringing the culture to life, with his knowledge of the ancient peoples and structures. His flexible approach matched our needs, giving us the oppportunity to decide on timings at each location. Lunch was tasty, plentiful and in a very relaxing environment. Overall a worthwhile activity for the discerning visitor offering good value for money.

Ambassador – September 2, 2018

Very well organized and informative tour. Would highly recommend this tour company. As I had a knee injury I very much appreciated the thoughtfulness in arranging a wheelchair for my comfort and Ervin patiently pushing me around all day Juan and Ervin were super tour guides very knowledgeable and fun to be around making our tour fun a well as educational.

Ron – July 28, 2018

Great family trip! I would definitely recommend Absolute Adventures to anyone wanting a guided Mexican adventure. We got to see the country and everything went very smoothly, from pickup to drop off and everything in between. It met and exceeded all of our expectations. Arturo (our guide) was friendly and personable and his english was excellent. He was really knowledgable about Chichen Itza and any other general questions we had during our ride out there and time in the city for lunch. An added bonus that comes with the tour was the pictures Arturo took while we toured Chichen Itza and swam in 2 cenotes and had lunch. Just received them in an email after we arrived back home. What a wonderful reminder of a great trip and would highly recommend Absolute Adventures to anyone and everyone.

Linda – May 20, 2018

Group of 4 adults for day trip to Chichen itza, Cenotes swim and lunch and shopping at Valladolid. Arturo and MIsael took great care of us and their insight gave the trip a more authentic feel than we would have had on our own! Very professional and knowledgeable. Starting so early was well worth it to beat the heat and the crowds. Not only did we learn about the Mayan culture but more about Mexico in general. Swimming in the cenotes was a refreshing experience and a beautiful show of nature. The authentic lunch at a local restaurant was delicious and we really appreciated Arturo’s recommendations and explanations about the drink options and cuisine. Cool drinks, beer and snacks provided on the van were greatly appreciated. Van was very nice and clean. They even took pictures of us throughout the trip – candid and posed, so it was one less thing we needed to worry about. We would definitely book wtih this company again. Highly recommend.

Nancy L – May 17, 2018

My fiance and I had so much fun on our private tour with Juan as our guide, and Nicholas our driver. We were picked up ontime, were provided breakfast and plenty of cold water and snacks throughout the day. We visited Chichen Itza bright and early before the huge crowds rolled in, then swam in two breathtaking cenotes (Xkeken and Samula) before sitting down to a delicious lunch in Valladolid. We did not have to worry about photography for the day because Juan took care of that! We enjoyed every moment of our tour, we learnt a lot and shared many laughs. I even picked up a few new Spanish slangs! We had a blast and highly recommend Absolute Adventure Mexico, especially with Juan as a tour guide 🙂

Daniel K – February 23, 2018

This is the second time my friends and I did an adventure tour with Absolute Adventure Mexico. Not only were they were flexible with personal requests, but it was evident that this company goes out of their way to provide authentic and personable experiences for their guests. Always impressed with their stellar service and wealth of knowledge of Mexican culture and history. My friends and I did a trip that consisted of a trip to Chichen Itza and ended the day exploring some remarkable cenote. Not only was our guide, Arturo, knowledgeable, but also willing to go out of his way to ensure that we were comfortable and at ease traveling to unknown places. If you are currently debating which private tour company to book for your adventure in Mexico…look no further and go with Absolute Adventure! I would rate higher than 5 stars if I could!

Anka – January 6, 2018

Wonderful tour! “We spent the day with Juan visiting Chichen Itzá, two cenotes and Villadoid. We had fun, learned a lot and overall enjoyed personal attention. Thank you!”

Richard – December 1, 2017

Chichen Itza Incredible site with unbelievable history. Truly one of the great wonders of the world. This trip was made even more special by our guide, Juan. His knowledge and gifted personality made an amazing day even more remarkable.

Rima K – October 5, 2017

Worth every penny!! Me and 3 of my friends had a private tour to Chichen Itza with Arturo as our tour guide and Ervin as our driver on October 8, 2017. It was awesome! First off, I thought that the drive to Chichen Itza would be too far but it was totally worth the drive and our tour guides made it worth it. First off, you are picked up very early from your resort, stop off to get a quick pastry/coffee and then you’re on your way. All of us napped in the van on our way to Chichen Itza which helped because it is a pretty long day that you are gearing up for. Ervin was a great and safe driver throughout the entire trip! Arturo had a lot of knowledge to share and also took pictures of our group to share at the end of our tour for free. Chichen Itza is amazing – you can really see what incredible astronomers and mathematicians the Mayans were. There are also a lot of vendors there – Arturo even helped us bargain and we came home with some great souveniers. After Chichen Itza, we headed to 2 Cenotes to go swimming which was so refreshing on a hot day. Arturo was so great giving us the history behind the centotes and also swimming along with us! Last, we went to the town of Vallodolid where we had lunch at a local restaurant and ordered the local Yucatan combination platters and they were declicious! It was so great getting to know Arturo and his own experiences. We had the option of touring the city and doing a little shopping but opted to go back because it was a pretty long day – one of the many benefits of the private tour is being able to manage how long you spend at various places and both Arturo and Ervin were very flexible. A couple of other things to note: – Absolute Adventure is a very small company run by people who are committed to giving back to the community. They intentionally chose a local restaurant and local owner for us to eat at. They are in the process of working with the community to help displaced and homeless dogs as well. We were so impressed with this and were so happy we chose a company who has these core values. – When we first got to Valladolid, there was a woman with a baby in the street who came up to Arturo and asked for water which of course he gave her. One of the things that we all appreciated about Arturo is that you can tell he also cares very much for his country and his community

I would happily recommend this tour and our tour guides to anyone!!

Sean – September 3, 2017

Amazing tour and Guides!! Our private tour with Absolute Adventures and our tour guides Juan-José and Ervin to Chichen Itza, incredible lunch in town, and swimming in 2 Cenotes was one of the best tours I have ever taken and my wife and I have been coming here for 30 years! Juan was very informative and took some amazing photos for us. Jaun and Ervin went out of their way to make our tour truly spectacular and never once rushed us or told us we had to leave. Juan even carried our bags for us through out the different parks so we were free to take pictures of our own. You can leave everything in the van which was very clean and comfortable when you tour and Ervin stays with the van. Not only did they have all of the equipment we needed for the tour they also had cold beer, soda, and water for us in the van for the ride. I will highly recommend Absolute Adventure tour company and especially our guides Juan-José and Ervin to all of my friends and family and anyone else who reads this review. I promise you wont be disappointed, the price and tip is well worth the experience!

James – September 2, 2017

Had a great time walking around this fascinating place. Van was clean and comfortable. Would highly recommend this tour as it was organized well, and full of lots of information and humor.

Brittany – July 17, 2017

Couldn’t have been better! My husband and I booked Absolute Adventure to take a tour of Chichen Itza and swim in cenotes with a stop in Valladolid for lunch. Claire was extremely quick to respond to our booking request and answer any questions we had.

The day of the tour was absolutely wonderful. Our guide for the day was Arturo and he couldn’t have been better. He was extremely knowledgeable, easy to talk to and made the day smooth and fun. He also took great pictures for us! Our driver was also wonderful and very nice. Absolute Adventure provided a tour guide at Chichen Itza who did an excellent job and made the visit very thorough and informative. It was so worth getting there early before the heat and crowds! We got wonderful pictures with no one in the background and were able to leave before it go too hot.

Throughout the day, we never felt rushed and had plenty of time to enjoy all aspects of the tour, including a delicious lunch.

We would HIGHLY recommend Absolute Adventure and will use them again on future trips.

Jason – April 29, 2017

The most overwhelming aspect of this site was when and how it was built. We had an excellent guide, Luis, who really knew his stuff. He made it very interesting for everyone. We were glad we went early in the morning (5:30am start) as by the time we were leaving, the site was absolutely packed.

Michael – April 14, 2017

Juan was amazing! Funny and very knowledgeable! we had a great trip! I loved all the stops we did!! I would definitely recommend this team!! The cenotes were amazing and not crowded!!

Araceli – March 29, 2017

Our first (original) tour consisted of Chichen Itza Valladolid Cenote Our guide, Claire, was awesome. Not only did she hire the perfect guide for the Chichen but she also added more information that she knew. She made sure we had all the details and background info on the areas we visited. We were so impress with her that we booked a last minute tour with her on the same trip. We decided to do Tulum/Snorkeling in cenotes and with turtles.

Steve – August 29, 2016

Doing Chichen Itza with Absolute Adventure was a great choice ! Our guide was incredibly nice and knowledgable and took tons of pictures for us! There were very few tourists in Chichen Itza, it was amazing! Having it be a private tour is a major plus!

Sue – August 28, 2016

We chose the day at Chitzen Itza. Arturo was our guide and he was so much fun and super knowledgable. We were just our group so we spent how much time we wanted to take picture and ask questions. Be sure to book your tour with Absolute Adventure !

Brittany – August 7, 2016

My husband and I booked Absolute Adventure to take a tour of Chichen Itza and swim in cenotes with a stop in Valladolid for lunch. The day of the tour was absolutely wonderful. Our guide for the day was Arturo and he couldn’t have been better. He was extremely knowledgeable, easy to talk to and made the day smooth and fun. He also took great pictures for us! Our driver was also wonderful and very nice. Absolute Adventure provided a tour guide at Chichen Itza who did an excellent job and made the visit very thorough and informative. It was so worth getting there early before the heat and crowds! We got wonderful pictures with no one in the background and were able to leave before it go too hot. Throughout the day, we never felt rushed and had plenty of time to enjoy all aspects of the tour, including a delicious lunch. We would HIGHLY recommend Absolute Adventure and will use them again on future trips.

Bose – July 16, 2016

Our extended family of seven had an unforgettable private tour with an extremely knowledgeable guide, Chris and excellent driver Allan. We spent a full day exploring Chichen Itza. We highly recommend this private tour with Absolute Adventure Mexico.

Frederic – June 30, 2016

My family and I went to Chichen Itza and a cenote. Our guide made sure everything was ok. He shared his culture and knowledge about the ruins. I would recommend Absolute Adventure Mexico to anyone looking for a private tour in the area of Cancun, your won’t regret it!

Daniel – June 27, 2016

Chichen Itza was absolutely amazing. Early morning pick up was the best choice we skipped all lines and crowds of people. We had a delicious lunch in a local mexican restaurant, it was perfect!

Lidy – June 27, 2016

Our guide Arturo was very knowledgeable about the Mayan culture and history. It was a long day but we visited the city of Valladolid, had a excellent lunch and we stopped at 2 cenotes where we could swim. Totally worth it!

Patricia – June 4, 2016

We had a wonderful day with Arturo. Loved visiting the ruins, cenotes and lunch.

Kevin – September 11, 2015

Toured chichen itza, cenotes x 2, restaurant in valladolid. All day affair that was awesome. Ruins amazing cenotes very cool, meal excellent. Absolutely worth it. Comfortable van. No big douchey tour bus. Jose at chichen extremely knowledgeable. Arturo also super smart, friendly and fun. Ervin drove and was great. Booking etc all a breeze. All in all worth it.

Tracy – July 1, 2015

Had a very good tour of the ruins, knowledgeable helpful staff with excellent English and lots of historic knowledge. Juan was the guide & Misael the driver. They were great! Tour included a delicious lunch in Valladolid & a trip to a gorgeous cenote.

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THE SACRED CENOTE

Chichen itza cenote.

The Cenote is a naturally formed open well whose diameter from north to south is 165 feet, and from east to west, 200 feet. As part of the cult offered to the water god the pre-Hispanic Maya made ceremonial offerings, throwing into the well many precious objects. Later, they introduced the practice of making human sacrifices. The victims were warriors, children and maidens thrown to the bottom of the cenote.

To one side of the south bank of the well they built some platforms on two levels, which perhaps were used as seats for those who witnessed the ceremonies. Beside this one can see the ruins of a building that was adapted into a steam bath or temazcal, where it is supposed that the victims were purified. Placed against this building is another platform that hangs over the edge of the cenote, from which the offerings would have been made.

Compared to other cenotes in the route of the cenotes, this one is not suit for swimming. It is characterized by having a lot of vegetation underwater.

The Sacred Cenote still holds unbelievable stories; in 1998 it became a Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO . And even if the Pyramid of Kukulkan is the most famous building in the site, it is connected by a 300 m (0.18 mi) road.

The Sacred Cenote has been through different restorations throughout the years. The first interventions were led by Edward H. Thompson, then the U.S. consul in Progreso, who was financed by Harvard University’s Peabody Museum and private collectors from the Boston area. As a result, in 1904, the US took many jade and gold pieces from the site and took them out of the country illegally. It wasn’t until 1914, when the violence of the Mexican Revolution unintentionally put an end to the looting of Chichén Itzá.

To this day, over 200 bodies, jewels, ceramics and gold pieces have been found as part of the archaeological findings in the cenote. The Sacred Cenote is one of the cenotes that has held the most tributes and sacrifices.

What do you wear to Chichen Itza and Cenote tour?

1. comfortable clothing, 2. hat and sunglasses, 3. swimwear and towel, 4. comfortable walking shoes, 5. sunscreen and bug repellent, 6. a light jacket or sarong, 7. sufficient water and snacks, 8. backpack or daypack, frequently asked questions:, q: can i wear sandals or flip-flops to chichen itza and the cenotes, q: can i wear jewelry or accessories, q: is there a dress code for visiting chichen itza, q: are there any clothing restrictions for swimming in the cenotes, q: can i bring a camera or smartphone, q: should i bring cash or credit card, q: can i bring my own food and drinks, q: can i rent swimwear or towels at the cenotes, q: are there any specific cultural considerations i should be aware of, q: should i bring a change of clothes, q: is there anywhere to store my belongings during the tour.

When visiting Chichen Itza and the cenotes, it is important to dress appropriately to ensure comfort and enjoyment throughout the tour. The Yucatan Peninsula’s climate can be quite hot and humid, so it is advisable to wear lightweight and breathable clothing. Here are some recommendations on what to wear for your Chichen Itza and cenote tour:

Opt for loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. This will help you stay cool and comfortable, especially during hot summer months. Avoid wearing heavy or tight clothing that may restrict your movement or make you feel uneasy.

Protect yourself from the intense sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. These will not only shield your face from the sun’s rays but also provide some relief from the heat. Make sure your sunglasses have UV protection to safeguard your eyes.

As you will be visiting cenotes, it is a wonderful opportunity to swim and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Remember to wear your swimwear underneath your clothes and bring a towel. Most cenotes provide changing facilities, so you can comfortably change into your swimwear when the time comes.

Be prepared for a fair amount of walking during your visit to Chichen Itza. Choose closed-toe shoes that offer good support and comfort. Sneakers or walking shoes are recommended, as some areas might be uneven or slippery.

To protect your skin from the harsh sun, apply sunscreen with a high SPF before and during the tour. Additionally, bring bug repellent to guard against mosquitoes and other insects that may be present in the jungle surroundings.

Although it can be hot during the day, the temperature might drop a bit in the evening. Carry a light jacket or sarong to keep yourself warm if needed. It can also come in handy as a cover-up or for modesty when visiting religious sites within Chichen Itza.

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the Yucatan’s heat. Carry a refillable water bottle and pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up. It is recommended to bring easy-to-eat and non-perishable snacks like granola bars or nuts.

A small backpack or daypack is essential for carrying your personal belongings and any items you might need throughout the day. It should be comfortable to wear and have enough room to accommodate your essentials.

Yes, you can wear sandals or flip-flops to the cenotes. However, they might not be the most practical choice for exploring the archaeological site of Chichen Itza, where more extensive walking is required. It is advisable to have closed-toe shoes that provide better stability and protection.

While it is possible to wear jewelry or accessories, it is recommended to keep them minimal. Choose simple and lightweight pieces that won’t become a hindrance or get easily damaged during your tour.

There isn’t a specific dress code for visiting Chichen Itza. However, it is important to dress modestly out of respect for the cultural and historical significance of the site. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing.

There are no specific clothing restrictions for swimming in the cenotes. However, it is advisable to wear appropriate swimwear that allows freedom of movement and comfort. Avoid wearing clothing with excessive buttons, zippers, or other elements that may get caught or become uncomfortable when wet.

Yes, you are encouraged to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the beauty of Chichen Itza and the cenotes. There are many wonderful photo opportunities throughout the tour. Just make sure to handle your belongings with care and be mindful of the surroundings.

It is recommended to bring a combination of both cash and a credit card. While some places may accept card payments, there may be instances where cash is the preferred option. Having both will ensure you have flexibility in making payments and purchasing souvenirs or refreshments.

While some tours provide food and drinks, it is always a good idea to have some snacks and water with you. This will help keep you fueled throughout the tour, especially if you have specific dietary requirements. Just be mindful of any rules or regulations regarding outside food and drink at the specific sites you visit.

Many cenotes offer rental services, including swimwear and towels. If you prefer not to bring your own, you can inquire about rental availability at the respective cenote. Keep in mind that availability and cleanliness may vary, so it is advisable to bring your own if possible.

Respect for the local culture is crucial when visiting Chichen Itza and the cenotes. It is important to be mindful of the sites’ rules and regulations, such as not touching or climbing on structures, and being aware of any specific customs or traditions observed by the local guides or staff.

Bringing a change of clothes is recommended, especially if you plan to swim in the cenotes. It allows you to comfortably change out of wet swimwear and into dry clothing before continuing with the rest of the tour.

Most tour operators provide lockers or secure storage facilities for your belongings during the tour. If you have any valuable items or larger bags that you prefer not to carry with you, inquire about storage options when booking your tour.

These frequently asked questions cover some of the essential aspects related to what to wear for a Chichen Itza and cenote tour. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring these magnificent destinations. Remember to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly to make the most out of your visit.

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15 Facts About Chichen Itza, One Of The 7 Wonders Of The World

• Chichen Itza is a top cruise attraction, with many tourists visiting from nearby ports on organized tours.
• Local vendors sell goods near Chichen Itza, although tourists should be prepared for potential persistence.
• Chichen Itza was discovered twice and was used as an observatory by the Mayans. It is being restored and may have been used for sacrifices.

Chichen Itza is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and is a historic site situated in Yucatán, Mexico. While most people realize that Chichen Itza was built by the Mayans thousands of years ago, there are many things tourists don't realize about this marvelous attraction. There are many interesting facts about Chichen Itza that everyone should know before visiting.

Chichen Itza refers to an archeological site, not the pyramid within it, which is the site's most popular tourist attraction. The pyramid itself was built to serve as a temple and a castle and is known as El Castillo - there are a lot more facts about Chichen Itza that you may want to know about both the site and the pyramid before you visit.

UPDATE: 2023/10/26 16:37 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Is Much More To Understand When Coming To See Chichen Itza

This article has been updated with new information regarding Chichen Itza, as well as two lesser-known facts about this world-famous monument. Whether someone is coming from their cruise, shopping with locals, or wanting to learn more about this iconic structure, Mexico is filled to the brim with history and Mayan culture!

Chichen Itza Is One Of The Most Visited Cruise Attractions

• Cruise passengers account for much of the tourism at Chichen Itza.

Something to know about Chichen Itza in Mexico is that it brings most of its tourists from cruise ships porting in nearby areas. Cozumel is a landing point for many cruisers, with them hopping on a bus to witness the ancient Mayan structure in real-time. For this reason, people will almost always have the option of booking a tour of the site via their cruise company, as it's continuously one of the most in-demand choices among people coming to the country. From water to Chichen Itza!

Guachimontones is another prehistoric site in Mexico worth checking out for anyone with time to spare on the mainland.

Related: The Longest Bike Trail In The World Spans All The Way From Canada To Mexico

There Are Locals Selling Goods Near The Famous Monument

• Local vendors line the streets entering Chichen Itza.

Although this sometimes doesn't sit well with tourists, there are hoards of vendors selling goods just hundreds of feet from Chichen Itza. Most people are fairly calm about selling to tourists, although it has been reported vendors bombarding buses filled with guests in the area, as well as flagging them down at the monument. It's best to say no thanks and move on from the area if this persists. Or, if you want a handcrafted gift, then supporting vendors is a great idea: whatever makes everyone feel most comfortable.

It Was Discovered Twice

• Chichen Itza underwent two major discoveries, one in 514 AD and another in 1841.

One thing most people do not know about Chichen Itza is that it was discovered twice. In 514 AD, a priest by the name of Lakin Chan discovered the site that is known as Chichen Itza. It is believed that Chan was also referred to as Itzamna. Chichen Itza translates as “at the mouth of the well of the Itza.” Over the years following its abandonment, Chichen Itza was lost, and Mexico fell into turmoil and was ravaged by a series of wars. In 1841, American Explorer John Lloyd Stephens stumbled upon this site once again and turned it over to Mexico.

Related: Mayapan: Visit One Of The Yucatan's Most Stunning But Rarely Visited Mayan Sites

It Was Used As An Observatory

• At one point, Chichen Itza was used as an observatory.

The Chichen Itza is a marvelous site due to its rich architecture and historical value, but it also houses evidence that the Mayans were definitely ahead of their time. For starters, the Chichen Itza housed craftspeople, artisans, and scholars and was by no means a civilization of simple people. The Mayans were people of science and math and especially excelled in the field of astronomy. For this reason, tourists can visit the Mayan observatory known as El Caracol, which once was used by the Mayans to gaze into the heavens and study the motions of Venus.

It's Built With Diverse Materials

• The pyramids of Chichen Itza have been made with local materials, such as mica.

The pyramids of Chichen Itza have been a popular attraction for ages, but now they are being questioned, or rather, the method in which they were built. Historians have analyzed the buildings and structures located within this site and have found a variety of diverse materials that do not originate locally in Yucatan, Mexico . One of these materials is mica, which was used by the Mayans during construction to insulate their buildings, but there is one problem. Mica is found 2,000 miles away from the pyramids in Brazil, and scientists are baffled as to how it was transported without vehicles.

It Was Built Near Sinkholes

• This structure was built near sinkholes, often believed to be used for human sacrifice.

Another thing most people do not know about Chichen Itza is that it was built near sinkholes. While your first reaction to reading that might be confusion or worry, there was a very good reason for the Mayans establishing their community near two sinkholes. The area is generally spotted with numerous sinkholes in the limestone earth and is stable. They actually provided the only source of freshwater to the people of the area as there are no rivers or lakes nearby. Therefore, Chichen Itza was built near two massive sinkholes to ensure water availability year-round. These sinkholes are called cenotes and have clean water in them ( cenotes are also one of the top tourist attractions of the Yucatán Peninsula ).

It Is Being Restored

• Many restoration projects have kept Chichen Itza looking beautiful after all these years.

One thing most people find surprising about the buildings in Chichen Itza, particularly El Castillo, is the incredible condition it is in after all these centuries. This is due to the restoration projects headed by the Mexican government and some universities to ensure these structures stand the test of time.

Restoration efforts began in 1923 when Sylvanus Morley, an archaeologist, headed an expedition to the pyramid and realized it had suffered a great deal of decay. After gaining entrance to the pyramid, restoration efforts were started and continue to this day; due to this, El Castillo is stronger than ever.

It May Have Been Used For Sacrifices

• Many believe that sinkholes surrounding Chichen Itza were used for sacrifices during times of heartache.

Next up on this list is a morbid fact about Chichen Itza, which is not entirely butterflies and rainbows. The Mayans were peaceful and smart people but also believed in curses and sacrifice to the gods they worshiped. The sinkholes mentioned above were frequently used for sacrifices during times of adversity, such as a drought or famine. The Mayans would choose a person to be sacrificed to the gods in hopes that this would bring them luck. In addition to sacrifices, the Mayans were also big fans of death penalties, which were gruesome and publicized to maintain order and spread fear.

It Isn't Entirely Mayan

• The Chichen Itza was built in two stages: the pre-Classic and the latter period.

Next up is a fact that startles most people when they hear it, and it truly is shocking. Historians suggest that this famous Mayan community may not have been entirely Mayan, and that is true. The Chechen Itza was built in two stages, the pre-Classic and the latter period. The pre-Classic period was greatly influenced by the Mayans, but following an invasion of Toltecs in the 10th century, this all changed. As a matter of fact, the most iconic buildings of Chichen Itza, such as the Temple Pyramid El Castillo, may have been built by the Toltecs and not the Mayans.

There Are Smaller Pyramids Within

• There is a smaller pyramid cluster hiding below the El Castillo.

Another fact to know about Chichen Itza is that while the huge pyramid of El Castillo looms at a whopping 98 feet , it is, in fact, hiding something beneath it. Within the pyramid are two smaller pyramids that stand at 65.5 feet and 33 feet. The smallest of the three pyramids is believed to have been built by the Mayans, as it features a unique Colombian-style architecture style. In contrast, the other pyramids have Mexican influences in them. Scientists are studying the smaller pyramid to learn more about the ways of the Mayans, as the ways of the Toltecs are shown on El Castillo with its carvings and sculptures.

Related: This Forgotten City Has The Tallest Mayan Pyramid (& Its Not Chichen Itza)

There Was A Death At The Itza

• Tourists in modern times are not permitted to climb or even touch Chichen Itza.

Tourists at the Chichen Itza are frequently disappointed to know that they cannot climb to the top of the pyramid, and here is why. Until 2006 , tourists were allowed to climb to the top of El Castillo to gaze upon the sculptures at the top. That was until an American tourist stumbled on her way down and fell to her death. These accidents are increasingly common, and for this reason, the steps of El Castillo are restricted. In addition to providing an added layer of safety to tourists, this ensures the structure will not be damaged by the feet of hundreds of thousands of tourists climbing the steps.

That said, this Mayan pyramid in Mexico DOES allow climbing , so that's something to think about.

Chichen Itza's Glory Declined Mysteriously

• The Mayans are said to have vanished sometime around the 14th century.

This once great empire met its sudden doom when the Mayans who once inhabited this land mysteriously left in the 14th century and never returned to it once again. The Chichen Itza was a symbol of perseverance and power to the Mayans, who had moved around, ravaged by warfare until settling in the Itza. Their civilization was one of the most advanced of its time. Still, it met its sudden end due to a series of issues, such as drought and famine. After the fall of Chichen Itza, the Mayans persevered in the North till the 16th century.

Chichen Itza Has The Largest Mayan Ballcourt

• Chichen Itza is home to the largest Ballcourt known in Mesoamerica.

Much is not known about the Mayan Ballgame, but it would seem that for the Mayans, the game was more ritual in nature. The game was associated with human sacrifice, and the exact rules remain unknown (except it would seem players could only use their hips and thighs. Chichen Itza is home to the largest Ballcourt known in Mesoamerica .

Chichen Itza Has A Sacrificial Cenote

• There is a sacred cenote at Chichen Itza, where sacrifices occur.

At Chichen Itza, visitors can find the Sacred Cenote . It is an ancient sinkhole that the Mayans believed was sacred. Numerous artifacts have been discovered at the bottom of this cenote, including things associated with sacrifice, like gold, jade, incense, and human bones. The human skeletons include warriors, children, and maidens. Also, at Chichen Itza, visitors can see the Mayan baths where sacrificial victims were ritually cleaned before their sacrifice.

Chichen Itza Is One Of The Most Touristic Mayan Sites

• Chichen Itza remains one of the most popular Mayan sites in the world.

Chichen Itza is not only one of the most popular archeological sites in Mexico, but it is also likely the most popular Mayan archeological site in all of the ancient Mayan world. It is far from the only ancient Mayan city to have impressive ruins. Still, it is one of the most accessible and best known, and it benefits from being in Mexico (Tikal is remote in the jungle in Guatemala). Chichen Itza attracts around 2 million tourists every year.