Chichen Itza Tour Plus with Cenote Swim from Cancun & Playa Del Carmen

Planning a trip to the Yucatán Peninsula? There are plenty of excursions to choose from, but one that consistently catches travelers’ interest is the Chichen Itza Tour Plus with Cenote Swim. This full-day adventure offers a blend of history, nature, and local culture, making it a popular pick for those wanting to see iconic Mayan sites without breaking the bank.

We really appreciate how this tour combines the awe-inspiring Chichen Itza archaeological site with a relaxing dip in a cenote and some time exploring the charming town of Valladolid. It’s a good way to experience different facets of the region without multiple separate bookings.

That said, this tour isn’t without its quirks. Some travelers find the schedule a bit rushed, especially at the cenote, and the sales pitches in souvenir shops can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you’re someone who values a relaxed pace with plenty of time at each stop, this may not be your ideal. However, if you’re after an efficient way to tick off major sights and enjoy authentic regional food, it’s worth considering.

This experience suits travelers who want a full day out with guided insights, enjoy cultural stops, and don’t mind a busy itinerary. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate a mix of history, nature, and local flavor.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of history, nature, and local culture in one day
• Guided tours provide insights and enhance understanding of Mayan heritage
• Comfortable transportation with amenities like air conditioning and bathrooms
• Value for money includes entrance fees, lunch, and activities
• Time constraints at certain stops may feel rushed for some visitors
• The tour’s pace and structure are best suited for travelers wanting a rundown

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Comfort and Convenience

This tour kicks off early at 7:00 am, which means you’ll want to set your alarm, especially since you’ll be picked up from your hotel, whether in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. The transportation is modern and comfortable, featuring reclining seats, air conditioning, and bathrooms onboard. This is a big plus for a 12-hour trip, as it makes the long drive more bearable.

The bus ride itself is a stretch of the legs and a chance to get into the zone for the day. Most travelers find the journey smooth, and the guide typically shares some introductory info about the region, setting expectations for what’s ahead.

Exploring Chichen Itza: The Heart of the Tour

The main event is, of course, Chichen Itza, one of the seven wonders of the world. With admission included, you’ll get about two hours to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. The guided aspect is a real bonus here—not just wandering on your own, but actually learning about the Kukulkan pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, the Observatory, the Sacred Cenote, and the Ball Game courts.

Our favorite part? The guide’s knowledge. As one reviewer said, “Our tour guide, Julio, was truly an expert on the Mayan culture and the places we visited. He was very knowledgeable and shared a ton of information.” Knowing the background of these structures adds a lot to the experience, transforming it from just a photo opportunity to a meaningful visit.

However, some people have expressed that the time at Chichen Itza can feel a bit hurried, especially if you’re trying to get photos or absorb details. Most agree, though, that the site is truly stunning and worth the visit, even if the crowds can be intense during peak times.

Cooling Off in the Cenote Saamal

After the archaeological tour, you’ll head to Cenote Saamal for a refreshing swim. The crystal-clear waters are a highlight, offering a natural break from the heat. The cenote’s beauty is often praised, and many find it to be the most memorable part of the day.

Timing here is tight—about 45 minutes—which some reviews note can feel rushed, especially if you’re not a quick swimmer or want to take your time changing and photographing the surroundings. Still, the experience of swimming in a cenote is undeniably special and a must-do in Yucatán.

Exploring Valladolid: The Colorful Town

The last major stop is Valladolid, a charming “magical town” with vibrant streets, a historic church, and lively markets. You’ll have around 30 minutes for a quick stroll, photo ops, or souvenir shopping. Many visitors appreciate the chance to see a real town with local flavor, and it’s a nice way to wind down the day.

One reviewer shared, “The town was very nice. I liked the lunch in Valladolid and the town was very nice.” It’s a relaxed way to soak in some local culture without a heavy schedule.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included features make this tour a good value: round-trip transportation, comfortable bus amenities, a box lunch, drinks onboard, access to both the archaeological site and cenote, a regional buffet lunch, and a bilingual guide.

The not included costs are mainly a $21 USD preservation tax per adult and $17 USD per child, payable on-site, as well as drinks at the restaurant if you want anything beyond the essentials. Also, travelers should bring essentials like a swimsuit, change of clothes, and towel to enjoy the cenote.

Pricing and Value

At $82 per person, considering the entrance fees, lunch, and guided insights, this is a reasonable deal. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but it balances cost with a comprehensive experience. The tour’s reviews suggest that many find the value justified, especially with the knowledgeable guides and included activities.

The Downside: Rushed Schedule and Sales Pitches

Some reviews highlight disappointment with the schedule—notably, that the order of stops varied from expectations, with some feeling the cenote swim was too early or too rushed. Also, there’s mention of sales pitches in souvenir shops that can detract from the experience for some.

Another note of caution: the long bus ride and the early start might not suit travelers who prefer a slower pace or more time at each destination. The touring style is quite structured, so flexibility may be limited.

The Reviews: What Travelers Say

The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 indicates most people are satisfied. Many praise the guides, like “Galo,” for their enthusiasm and knowledge. The cenote swim is often highlighted as a “best part,” with travelers loving the chance to cool off in natural waters.

On the flip side, a handful of travelers mention disappointment with the schedule or sales experiences. As one reviewer pointed out, “the stops at the shops are for the travelers to walk around and stretch their legs,” which might feel like a sales pitch to some. Another had concerns about time management, feeling they only had about 15-20 minutes to enjoy the cenote swim.

It’s worth noting that some travelers rave about the lunch, describing it as delicious regional cuisine. The bilingual guides are also frequently praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want to pack a lot into one day without fuss. If you’re interested in Mayan history, love natural swimming spots, and enjoy local towns like Valladolid, you’ll likely find this a rewarding experience.

However, if you prefer more leisurely exploring or more time at each stop, you might find it too rushed. Also, if sales pitches bother you, be prepared to navigate those moments.

Final thoughts:

This tour offers a solid value with expert guides, included entrance fees, and a variety of experiences all wrapped into one day. It’s a good option for those who are wanting a rundown of the highlights in Yucatán, especially if you’re short on time but want to see the major sites.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel is provided in a comfortable bus with amenities like air conditioning and bathrooms.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and hat. You might also want a camera or smartphone for photos.

How long do we spend at Chichen Itza?
Approximately two hours, guided. You’ll have time to see the main structures and hear about their significance.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there are stops at shops, which are included in the schedule. Keep in mind some reviews mention these stops are partly sales pitches.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the schedule and walking involved make it more suitable for older children or teenagers.

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins around 7:00 am, so be ready early. It’s a full 12-hour day, so plan accordingly.

What’s included in the price?
Entrance fees to Chichen Itza and the cenote, lunch, drinks onboard, and guided tours are all included.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a $21 USD preservation tax per adult and a $17 USD tax per child are payable on-site, plus any drinks at the restaurant if desired.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full-day adventure packed with history, nature, and local flavor, this tour hits many marks. You’ll get a chance to walk among the ancient ruins, cool off in a gorgeous cenote, and stroll through a charming Yucatán town—all with guided insights that enrich the experience.

While it’s not perfect—some might find the schedule tight or the souvenir stops a bit sales-heavy—it offers a satisfying balance of highlights for most travelers. It’s particularly suited for those who like to see a lot in one day and are comfortable with a structured itinerary.

For anyone eager to tick off one of the world’s most iconic sites while enjoying authentic regional experiences, this tour could be a memorable part of your trip to Mexico.