Chichen Itza Deluxe Valladolid and 2 Cenotes

If you’re eyeing a full-day adventure that combines history, nature, and a bit of local culture, this tour might pique your interest. Offered from Cancun, it promises a visit to the iconic Chichen Itza, a refreshing dip in two different cenotes, and a quick peek into the charming colonial town of Valladolid. As someone who’s seen quite a few excursions, I’ll give you an honest breakdown of what to expect — with its highlights and some things to consider before booking.

First off, a couple of things we really like about this tour: it’s well-rounded, offering a blend of cultural and natural experiences, and the guides tend to be knowledgeable and friendly, making the long day feel a bit easier. Plus, the inclusion of buffet lunch, bottled water, and hotel pickup means less hassle planning and more time enjoying the sights.

On the flip side, some travelers have pointed out that the travel time can eat up a significant portion of the day — with reports of 10 to even 15 hours from start to finish. If you’re not a fan of long bus rides, this might be a tough one. That said, for those eager to see all these highlights in one trip, it can still be a solid option.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that covers major Mayan ruins, cool cenote swims, and a taste of local town life without too much planning on their part. Keep in mind, it’s quite full-on, so if you prefer more time at a single site or a more leisurely pace, it might not be ideal.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines Chichen Itza, two cenotes, and Valladolid in one day for convenience.
• Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, providing context and making the long day more engaging.
• Hassle-Free Transport: Air-conditioned bus and hotel pickup/drop-off remove logistical stress.
• Value for Money: Price includes lunch, entrance fees, drinks, and transfers, making it a reasonable package.
• Long Travel Time: Expect a full day on the bus, with some reviews mentioning up to 15 hours total.
• Mixed Reviews on Pace: Some find the schedule rushed, especially at cenotes and Valladolid, so be prepared for a quick visit to each spot.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stop 1: Chichen Itza — 3 Hours

Your day begins with an early pickup around 7:30 am, heading to one of the New7Wonders of the World. The tour includes an expert guide who will take you through the ruins, sharing insights into the iconic pyramid, temples, and ball courts. Most reviews commend the guides, like Everson_A, who mentions, “The Guide was Very good (Carlos). The food as well.” However, some feel that three hours might be a bit long, especially if you’re eager to explore at your own pace or want more time for photos.

Stop 2: Valladolid — 20 Minutes

After Chichen Itza, you’ll briefly visit the colonial town of Valladolid. This is a quick walk around the main square, where you can admire the architecture and perhaps grab a quick snack from street vendors. The stop is quite short, with reviews like Mai_M appreciating the chance to “get to know more of the culture” but noting that only 15 minutes in Valladolid feels a bit rushed.

Stop 3: Cenote Ik Kil — 1 Hour

Next, it’s time for a refreshing swim in Cenote Ik Kil—a popular spot near Chichen Itza. The cenote is historically significant, once used for Mayan ceremonies, and now offers a stunning, natural swimming hole with lush greenery surrounding it. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch here too. Reviewers like Daniel_H mention, “The swim in the cenote was wonderful,” and praise the facilities, like clean changing rooms and the experience of swimming in crystal-clear waters.

Stop 4: Cenote Hubiku — 30 Minutes

The second cenote, Hubiku, is described as “deep, fresh, and crystal clear.” It involves descending 115 steps into an underground marvel. This spot is a bit younger and less crowded, which many find appealing. Some reviews note the importance of paying a small fee ($1) for a life jacket, which is mandatory. The access here is a highlight for those wanting a more intimate cenote experience.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses air-conditioned coaches, which are necessary given the long hours on the road. The group size varies but generally hovers around 50 travelers, making it a lively, yet manageable, experience. Some reviews mention that bus comfort can vary — for instance, Jessica_O notes that the bus was “tight,” and seats recline, so if you’re tall or have long legs, prepare for some legroom challenges.

The Guides and Service

Most travelers seem to agree that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often making the day more enjoyable. People like Lucia_V and Sonali_K point out how guides like Julio and Alan kept refreshments flowing and made everyone feel safe and well-taken care of. There are some mentions of guides pushing for tips, which can be a bit off-putting if you’re used to a more relaxed approach.

Food and Drinks

Included is a buffet lunch, generally well-received for its variety and taste, with some reviewers calling it “delicious.” The tour also provides bottled water and two drinks, which is appreciated during the hot day. Be aware, though, that additional drinks or alcohol are not included, and some reviews mention upselling efforts, like towels or lockers, for extra money.

Timing and Pacing

Several reviews highlight that the schedule can feel rushed. For example, Jessica_O suggests that more time at the cenotes and less at Chichen Itza might improve the experience. Others mention that waiting or changing time eats into the time at each stop. Some travelers feel the tour pushes you to buy souvenirs or spend money at the gift shop near the ruins, which can add to the feeling of being hurried.

Overall Value

$169 per person covers most costs — entrance fees, lunch, drinks, and transportation. For a full day packed with diverse sights, many find this to be good value. Still, some feel the long travel times diminish the experience, especially if you’re not a fan of hours-long bus rides.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits those who want an all-inclusive, hassle-free way to see key highlights of the Yucatán without much planning. It’s especially good if you’re eager to tick off Chichen Itza, enjoy swimming in cenotes, and get a glimpse of Valladolid, all in one go. However, be prepared for a long day—some reviews mention 14-15 hours from pickup to drop-off—and quick visits to each site.

If you’re after more relaxed pacing or dedicated time at specific locations, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re okay with a full schedule and want the convenience of included meals, transport, and guided commentary, it’s a solid pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early around 7:30 am and returning late in the evening. Some travelers report it going up to 15 hours, depending on traffic and logistics.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics easier. Just check with your hotel if they’re in the pickup area.

Are entrance fees to Chichen Itza and cenotes included?
Absolutely. The tour covers all entrance fees, so you won’t need extra cash for that.

What should I bring for the cenote swims?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, and possibly a change of clothes. Towels and lockers are available for an extra fee, but some reviews mention the facilities are clean and well-maintained.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
While children can participate, remember it’s a full-day, bus-heavy experience. Kids should be okay with long rides and quick stops, and they must be accompanied by an adult.

How’s the food?
Most reviews find the buffet lunch tasty and plentiful, with a good variety. Drinks are included, but alcoholic beverages are extra and not included in the package.

What if I’m unhappy with the experience?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can adjust your plans if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Chichen Itza Deluxe Valladolid and 2 Cenotes tour offers a compact way to soak in some of Yucatán’s top sights. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive day that covers history, nature, and local culture without much fuss. The guides generally receive praise for their knowledge, and the included meals and transport make logistics straightforward.

However, be prepared for a long day on the bus — some reviews mention fatigue and quick visits. If you’re someone who prefers more relaxed pacing or more time at each site, consider whether the schedule suits your style.

All in all, if you’re after a cost-effective, convenient way to explore these highlights and don’t mind the busy schedule, this tour offers a lot of value. Just keep your expectations balanced, and you’ll likely enjoy a memorable day discovering some of the most iconic parts of Mexico’s cultural and natural heritage.

Happy travels!