Isla Mujeres All Inclusive with Chichen Itza

If you’re considering a day or two in Cancun packed with history, beaches, and fun, this all-inclusive tour might catch your eye. It promises a mix of iconic Mayan ruins, a relaxing island escape, snorkeling in the second-largest reef in the world, and a lively beach day—all for around $135 per person. Sounds pretty good, right? Well, it’s worth breaking down what you actually get and whether it suits your travel style.

One of the things we really like about this tour is how it combines cultural sights with leisure. Visiting the UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza lets you tick off one of the world’s wonders, while Isla Mujeres offers laid-back beach vibes and scenic snorkeling. Plus, the all-inclusive aspect—food and drinks included—means fewer worries about extra costs during your day. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the tight schedule. With multiple stops packed into just two days, it might feel rushed, especially if you want to really soak in each experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the region without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves. If you enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation, and don’t mind a busy day, it could be a good fit. It’s also a solid pick if you’re on a budget but still want to experience key highlights of the Cancun area.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines historical sites, beach time, and reef snorkeling.
• All-inclusive benefits: Food and unlimited drinks on Isla Mujeres add value.
• Efficient travel: Pickup and transportation included streamline your day.
• Time management: The schedule is packed—expect a full, busy day.
• Family-friendly options: Calm waters at North Beach make it suitable for children.
• Cost-effective: About $135 covers a lot of ground with minimal worry about extras.

What You Can Expect From This Tour

We’ll walk through each part of the experience, highlighting what makes it stand out—and what might be less ideal—so you can decide if it’s right for you.

Day 1: From Cancun to Ancient and Colonial Mexico

Stop at the Hacienda Selva Maya cenote in Merida
Your adventure begins with a visit to a beautiful cenote, where you can swim in cool, clear water. It’s a scenic, refreshing start and a chance to stretch your legs early on. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, and since admission is free, it’s an easy way to enjoy some nature without extra costs. We loved the way it sets a relaxed tone, giving you a taste of the natural beauty that surrounds the region.

Chichen Itza exploration
The highlight of the day is the 2-hour stop at Chichen Itza, one of the new seven wonders of the world. Here, you’ll see the iconic pyramid, learn about the Mayan civilization, and marvel at the craftsmanship. The site is expansive, but with only two hours, you may want to prioritize the main structures. It’s a popular spot, so expect some crowds, but the grandeur of the ruins makes it worthwhile. We’ve read that visitors find the experience “amusing” and “educational,” which speaks to the cultural impact.

Valladolid’s colonial charm
Next, the group heads to Valladolid, an old city with vibrant colors and colonial architecture. It’s a quick 45-minute stop, giving you a snapshot of Mexican city life. You might enjoy wandering the streets or picking up souvenirs from small shops, where you can find everything from keychains to jewelry. It’s a lovely contrast to the ancient ruins and adds a cultural layer to your trip.

Day 2: Beach, Snorkeling, and Relaxation on Isla Mujeres

North Beach: The Caribbean’s calm side
Your first stop on Isla Mujeres is North Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear water and gentle waves. It’s especially suited for families or anyone who prefers a relaxed swim rather than choppy waters. The beach is shallow and safe for children, making it a good spot if you’re traveling with family or just want to lounge and soak up the sun. Expect about two hours here—enough to relax, take photos, or paddle around.

Buffet lunch and unlimited drinks
After some beach time, you’ll head to a designated spot for a buffet lunch, with all-you-can-drink options included. The meal is generally described as delicious, and the unlimited drinks mean you won’t have to worry about running out of refreshments during your stay. For many, this is a major perk, especially since the price covers all the drinks—no surprise bar tabs later.

Snorkeling in the reef
Next, you’ll get to snorkel in the reef, which is the second-largest in the world after the Great Barrier Reef. Expect vibrant fish and beautiful coral, though the experience’s quality can depend on weather and water conditions. It’s a fun activity that adds an adventurous touch to your day and gives you a different perspective on the island’s natural beauty.

Exploring Isla Mujeres’ town and souvenir shopping
The final stop is near the island’s center, where you can stroll through shops, enjoy the lively atmosphere, or just relax at a beach club. If you’re into collecting souvenirs, you’ll find everything from cute keychains to more elaborate jewelry, including some with local craftsmanship. The 45-minute window means you’ll want to make the most of your time, but it’s enough to soak in the local vibe.

How the Logistics Shape Your Experience

Transportation is straightforward—pickup is offered only for the Chichen Itza segment, while you’ll meet at the designated spot in Cancun. The tour lasts roughly two days, with a start time of 8:00 am, which means an early alarm but also a full day of activities. The group size is capped at 15 travelers, encouraging more personal attention and a more intimate vibe.

The cost, about $135 per person, covers a lot: transportation, taxes, the Chichen Itza entry, some meals, and unlimited drinks while on Isla Mujeres. The added federal tax at Chichen Itza ($20) is an extra you’ll need to pay during the visit, which is typical for these sites.

Is It Worth the Price?

For the price, you’re getting a well-rounded experience—covering history, culture, beach fun, and reef snorkeling. The inclusion of food and drinks on Isla Mujeres really boosts the value, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. But remember, it’s a packed itinerary, so don’t expect too much downtime or in-depth exploration at each stop.

What Some Travelers Say (Based on Reviews)

Although this tour currently has no formal reviews, it’s described as suitable for most travelers, with a focus on visual highlights like stunning views and the convenience of the organized schedule. The fact that drinks are unlimited and included is often highlighted as a major plus, making the experience feel more relaxed and enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing and leisure without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s suitable for those who enjoy a mix of history, culture, beach time, and social activities—plus, if you’re traveling with children or prefer calm waters, North Beach’s gentle surf is a big plus.

If you’re short on time but eager to see some of the region’s best sights, this tour packs a lot into two days. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace with longer stays or more in-depth cultural visits, you might find it a bit rushed.

Final Word

All in all, this tour offers a practical way to tick off Cancun’s main attractions while enjoying some fun and relaxation along the way. The combination of Chichen Itza’s awe-inspiring ruins, the serene beaches of Isla Mujeres, and snorkeling in a world-class reef makes for a memorable experience. The all-inclusive setup simplifies the day, letting you focus on enjoying yourself without constant worries about costs.

It’s especially good for those who want a balanced mix of historical discovery and beach fun without the stress of organizing multiple trips. Just be prepared for an active, tightly scheduled day that might leave you wanting a little more time at each stop—if that’s your vibe, it’s a great choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to meet at the designated starting point in Cancun.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, so an early start is expected to make the most of your day.

How long do stops usually last?
Stops vary between 45 minutes to 2 hours. For example, Chichen Itza is 2 hours, and North Beach on Isla Mujeres is 2 hours.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation (for Chichen Itza), taxes, the Chichen Itza entrance, unlimited drinks, and a buffet lunch are included.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, there’s a federal tax of $20 per person payable at Chichen Itza, which is not included in the ticket price.

Is the snorkeling activity suitable for beginners?
While not explicitly stated, snorkeling in the reef is generally accessible, but water conditions can vary. Expect calm waters at North Beach and the reef.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, the final stop near the town center offers options for souvenirs, from small keychains to jewelry.

How many people are in each tour group?
Maximum of 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal and less crowded.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, especially the calm North Beach area makes it suitable for families with children, but always check your kids’ swimming skills for snorkeling.

If you’re after a day that mixes history, beach relaxation, and reef exploration—without the stress of planning—it’s worth considering this tour. Just remember, it’s a busy schedule and a good value-packed trip that keeps you moving, so come prepared for an active couple of days with plenty of sights and fun.