Chichen Itza tour from Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya

Planning a trip to Cancun or the Riviera Maya and considering a day trip to Chichen Itza? If so, you’re probably eyeing a tour that covers the main sights efficiently while fitting into your busy schedule. This particular experience, offered by Open Vacations, promises an all-in-one day that includes Chichen Itza, Valladolid, and a swim in one of the Yucatan’s stunning cenotes.

What I really like about this tour is how it bundles these iconic spots into a single day — perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time without sacrificing the highlights. The inclusion of a regional buffet lunch and a guided tour of Chichen Itza are definite pluses. On the flip side, a 12-hour day can be quite packed, and the short stops mean you’ll want to be prepared for a fast-paced experience.

This tour is best suited for those with limited time in Cancun or the Riviera Maya who want to tick off Chichen Itza and nearby attractions without fuss. If you’re more of a leisurely traveler or crave in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re after a practical, well-organized day with some memorable sights, it could be just right.

Key Points

• Efficient full-day experience covering Chichen Itza, Valladolid, and a cenote swim.
• Includes transport from Cancun and Riviera Maya, easing travel worries.
• Regional buffet lunch offers a taste of local flavors without extra planning.
• Short stops mean you’ll see the highlights but won’t get deep into any one site.
• Guided and independent exploration at Chichen Itza balances education with personal discovery.
• Cenote Saamal is praised for its beauty, perfect for cooling off after sightseeing.

What to Expect from This Chichen Itza Tour

Getting on board early, around 7:00 am, means an early start, but it also sets the tone for a full, rewarding day. The first stop is the iconic Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Here, you’ll join a guided tour that covers the main structures—the Temple of Kukulcan, the Temple of the Warriors, and the sacred cenote—while leaving plenty of space for some free exploration.

We loved the way the guide adds context but also leaves room for your own discoveries. Expect to spend around two hours here, giving you enough time to take photos, soak in the atmosphere, and learn some intriguing facts about this ancient city. The site can be quite crowded, so arriving early helps avoid the biggest crowds.

After Chichen Itza, you’ll head to Valladolid, a picture-perfect colonial town. The main highlight is walking through its charming streets, with visits to the San Servacio church and the main park, all within about 30 minutes of free time. The reviews mention that just wandering around Valladolid is a pleasant way to get a taste of local life in the Yucatan, but be aware that the stop is brief. You might find it enough to snap some photos and grab a quick souvenir or snack.

Next, a refreshing stop at Cenote Saamal offers a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters that many describe as among the most beautiful in the region. You’ll want to bring your towel, swimwear, and change of clothes as you get a dip in this natural wonder, which is included in the tour. The experience of swimming in a cenote is often a highlight, with reviews praising the stunning views and peaceful ambiance.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a buffet lunch, offering regional dishes that give you a taste of local flavors without the hassle of finding a place on your own. Your day ends with the return trip back to Cancun or the Riviera Maya, generally around 7:00 pm or so, depending on traffic.

The Practicalities and What You’re Paying For

For $89 per person, this tour offers a lot. The price includes round-trip transportation, guided and self-guided exploration at Chichen Itza, access to the cenote, and a buffet meal. That’s quite a package compared to booking individual elements, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

However, there’s a $17 preservation tax per person that’s not included in the initial price, which you’ll need to pay on-site. Also, remember to bring essentials like a towel, swimsuit, and change of clothes, since you’ll be swimming. The tour provides access to the archaeological zone and cenote, but not beverages at the restaurant or life vests, so plan accordingly.

The tour often attracts travelers who prefer a structured day rather than organizing their own transport and tickets. It’s capped at 60 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded but still lively enough to feel social.

The Experience and Group Dynamics

Most reviews highlight the smooth organization, with punctual pickups and friendly bilingual guides. The small group size fosters a more personal experience, especially at Chichen Itza, where guides can share detailed insights. Some reviewers mention that the tour moves quickly, which is great if you’re eager to see everything but might feel rushed if you’re a slow explorer.

One aspect that stood out is the quality of the lunch — many mention the regional buffet as a definite highlight, with tasty, filling dishes that help sustain you through the long day. The stops in Valladolid and at the cenote are well-paced, leaving enough time to enjoy each without feeling hurried.

On the downside, some travelers found the 12-hour schedule quite long, especially after a full day of walking and swimming. The quick visits mean you won’t get deep into the history or spend hours at each site, but that’s a fair trade for a day trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re in Cancun or the Riviera Maya, short on time but craving a taste of the Yucatan’s ancient and natural wonders, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who want a curated experience without the hassle of planning each detail — especially those who don’t mind a long day. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with friends or a group who enjoy guided outings with set itineraries.

Not the best choice if you prefer a slower pace, want to explore more in-depth, or are traveling with children who might find the long hours challenging. However, the short stops and included activities make it manageable for most adults.

Final Thoughts

This Chichen Itza day trip from Cancun and Riviera Maya offers an efficient way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights without overextending yourself. The combination of ancient ruins, a scenic town, and a cenote swim makes for a well-rounded experience, especially with the included regional lunch and transport.

While the schedule is quite packed, it’s perfect for those wanting a snapshot of Yucatan highlights. The guided tour adds value with insights, but you’ll also enjoy some free time to soak up the atmosphere and refresh in the cenote.

For travelers eager to check a major archaeological site off their list and enjoy some natural beauty along the way, this is a solid option, especially considering the price. Just come prepared for a full day and bring your sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cancun and the Riviera Maya is included, making travel easy and stress-free.

What is the meeting time?
The tour starts early at 7:00 am, so be ready for pickup around that time.

How long do I get at each site?
You’ll have about 2 hours at Chichen Itza, an hour in Valladolid, and an hour at the cenote, with the buffet lunch included.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Yes, bring towels, swimsuits, and change of clothes since swimming in the cenote is part of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a long day with lots of walking and standing.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, a preservation tax of $17 USD per person needs to be paid on-site. Beverages and life vests are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Are the sites crowded?
Crowds can vary, but arriving early at Chichen Itza helps avoid the busiest times.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically aimed at children, the activities are generally suitable for most ages if they can handle a full day of sightseeing and swimming.

In sum, this tour balances convenience, iconic sights, and some natural beauty, making it worth considering if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive Yucatan experience.