Private Tour Chichen itza and Cenote with lunch included

Exploring Yucatán’s Hidden Gems: A Deep Dive into the Private Chichen Itza and Cenote Tour

If you’re considering a trip to Mérida and want to get a sense of the Yucatán beyond the usual tourist spots, a private tour combining Chichen Itza and secret cenotes might be just what you need. This particular experience has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 11 reviews, and it’s easy to see why. It promises an intimate, well-rounded day, with personalized guidance, authentic local food, and a chance to see two less commercialized cenotes that are often overlooked.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances the awe of visiting one of the New Seven Wonders with the serenity of swimming in natural, quiet cenotes. Plus, the small group setting makes it easier to connect with your guide and ask questions—rather than feeling like just another face in a crowd. Another highlight is the included lunch of traditional Yucatec dishes, which elevates the experience from just sightseeing to a more genuine culture.

A potential challenge? The price might seem steep for some, especially since the Chichen Itza entrance fee isn’t included in the listed cost. But considering the personalized service, transportation, guide expertise, and access to exclusive cenotes, many say it’s worth it. This tour suits travelers who want an authentic, relaxed day with a touch of history and nature, and who prefer avoiding the large crowds and commercialized spots.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private format ensures tailored attention and a flexible itinerary.
• Unique Cenote Visits: Swim in two off-the-beaten-path cenotes, including one discovered in a family’s backyard—an authentic treat.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides like Hernán or Fernando bring the sites alive with stories, making history engaging.
• Cultural Cuisine: Enjoy a hearty, home-style lunch featuring local Yucatec specialties such as panuchos and salbutes.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup and drop-off at your Mérida accommodation make the day seamless.
• Clear Cost Breakdown: While the tour costs $178.28, remember the Chichen Itza ticket (~MXN 670) isn’t included, and you’ll want to budget accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Chichen Itza

The tour kicks off early at 6:00 am from the central Mérida meeting point, Catedral de San Ildefonso. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll head toward Chichen Itza in about an hour and a half. The early start has a big advantage: you’ll beat the crowds, allowing for more relaxed sightseeing and better photo opportunities. The guide will take you through the site, sharing insights and making the history of the Mayans come alive—something that often elevates this experience above just walking around ruins.

One of the reviews mentions Hernán as an “excellent guide who made the psyche of the Mayans come alive,” highlighting how a good guide can turn a standard visit into something memorable. Since the entrance fee (~MXN 670 or about $35 USD) isn’t included, it’s worth planning ahead to avoid surprises.

Swimming in the Cenotes

After about 2.5 hours at Chichen Itza, the next stop is Cenote Ik Kil. This is the most well-known of the cenotes you’ll visit, famous for its dramatic vertical walls covered in lush greenery and its crystal-clear water. The cenote’s natural beauty makes it a favorite, and it’s a perfect place to cool off and enjoy a swim. The fee here is included in your tour price, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs.

Following the swim, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local Yucatec specialties. The reviews rave about the food, describing it as both delicious and authentic. One traveler mentioned it was a “very delicious and an authentic experience of life,” which suggests you’ll get a taste of real Yucatán flavor beyond just sightseeing.

An Off-the-Beaten-Path Cenote

The tour’s real highlight is the visit to a second cenote that’s not commercialized—some are even family backyard discoveries. This means fewer crowds, more tranquility, and a chance for genuine connection with Yucatán’s natural beauty. As one reviewer notes, “the cenote we chose to visit was not commercialised,” making this a truly special experience. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, take in the views, and perhaps feel more connected to the environment than in tourist-heavy spots.

Return to Mérida

After a relaxed swim and lunch, the group heads back to Mérida, with the tour wrapping up at your hotel or designated drop-off point. The overall duration is approximately 6 to 10 hours, flexible depending on your pace and interests.

Why This Tour Works

The small group size makes all the difference. You’re not just a face in a crowd — your guide can tailor explanations and ensure you get the most out of each stop. Multiple reviews mention how guides like Fernando or Hernán are knowledgeable and friendly, making history engaging and the day more enjoyable.

The combination of ancient ruins, natural beauty, and authentic cuisine offers a well-rounded experience. Unlike larger, more commercial tours, this one emphasizes intimacy, authenticity, and comfort—attributes that many travelers find valuable.

The price of $178.28 per person reflects not just access to sites, but the personalized service, transportation, and curated experiences. Remember, the Chichen Itza entrance fee is extra, so plan accordingly if you want to visit the famous pyramids.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value authenticity and smaller crowds. If you’re interested in history but prefer your ruins without throngs of travelers, this early-morning tour offers a peaceful visit. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to swim in two different cenotes, especially one that feels more private and untouched.

It’s also perfect if you want a taste of local Yucatec cuisine—the included lunch is a genuine highlight. Families, couples, or solo travelers alike will find this tour accessible and enriching, especially if they enjoy a mix of culture and outdoor adventure.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or seeking a quick visit just to tick the box of seeing Chichen Itza, you might find the full-day commitment a bit long. Keep in mind the cost of entrance fees, and factor in how much time you want to spend at each spot.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Mérida accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the tour last?
It generally spans about 6 to 10 hours, depending on pace and group needs.

Are the cenotes crowded?
Not at all. You’ll visit two cenotes, including one that’s not commercialized, meaning fewer visitors and a more peaceful experience.

Do I need to pay the Chichen Itza entrance fee separately?
Yes, the ticket (~MXN 670) is not included in the tour price, so plan to buy it separately.

Can I join if I’m traveling alone?
The tour runs with a minimum of two people, so solo travelers should book with an extra person to ensure the trip goes ahead.

What kind of food is served?
A traditional Yucatec buffet featuring regional dishes like panuchos and salbutes. Many reviews highlight how tasty and authentic the meal is.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace and outdoor activities could suit older children. Always check with the provider if you’re traveling with younger kids.

In The Sum Up

This private tour from Mérida offers a rare chance to see Chichen Itza with fewer crowds, swim in beautiful, less-commercialized cenotes, and enjoy authentic Yucatec cuisine in a small-group setting. The knowledgeable guides and personalized service ensure you get a meaningful experience, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking to connect more deeply with Yucatán’s culture and natural beauty.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate a more intimate, authentic adventure—those who want to avoid the hustle of big tourist buses and crowded spots. While the cost might add up once you include entrance fees, many find the quality and depth of the experience justify the price. If you’re after a peaceful, engaging, and genuinely local day out, this tour is definitely worth considering.

This tour strikes a nice balance between history, nature, and local flavor, delivered in a way that feels personal and genuine. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends who love exploring off the beaten path, it promises a memorable day in the Yucatán.