Chichen Itza and Valladolid are two of the Yucatan Peninsula’s most captivating destinations. This immersive tour from Cancun and Playa del Carmen promises an unforgettable journey through the region’s rich history and culture. Visitors will explore the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Chichen Itza, discover the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Saamal, and stroll through the charming colonial town of Valladolid. With a regional lunch, round-trip transportation, and knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. But what truly awaits those who embark on this adventure goes far beyond the typical sightseeing excursion.
Key Points
- This 12-hour tour offers an immersive experience at the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and the colonial town of Valladolid, starting from Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
- The tour includes a guided exploration of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as a swim at the Cenote Saamal and a stroll in Valladolid.
- Priced from $77.78 per person, the tour provides round-trip transportation, a regional lunch buffet, and the Chichen Itza preservation tax.
- The itinerary features a 2-hour guided tour of Chichen Itza, a 1-hour swim at Cenote Saamal, and 20 minutes to explore Valladolid’s historic architecture.
- The tour highlights include in-depth historical insights from a certified guide, the natural wonder of Cenote Saamal, and the colonial charm of Valladolid.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary and Attractions
- Tour Highlights
- Included Services
- Important Information
- Pickup Locations
- Guided Tour of Chichen Itza
- Exploring Cenote Saamal and Valladolid
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Book This Tour for a Solo Traveler?
- Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
- Are the Tour Guides Fluent in Multiple Languages?
- Can I Add Additional Stops or Customizations to the Itinerary?
- What Is the Policy for Young Children or Infants on the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cancun
- More Tour Reviews in Cancun
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cancun we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour offers an immersive experience exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and the charming colonial town of Valladolid.
Priced from $77.78 per person, the 12-hour tour departs from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It includes a guided tour of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with free time to explore.
Visitors can also swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Saamal and stroll through the historic streets of Valladolid.
The tour features round-trip transportation, a regional lunch buffet, and the Chichen Itza preservation tax.
Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is allowed for a full refund, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cancun.
Itinerary and Attractions
The tour begins with pickup locations in Cancun and Playa del Carmen, with Cocobongo serving as the meeting point. From there, the journey unfolds with a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Chichen Itza, where visitors can explore for 2 hours. The next stop is Cenote Saamal, where travelers can swim in the crystal-clear waters for an hour. The final destination is Valladolid, where visitors can enjoy 20 minutes of shopping and walking through the colonial charm of the historic architecture.
| Attraction | Duration |
|---|---|
| Chichen Itza | 2 hours |
| Cenote Saamal | 1 hour |
| Valladolid | 20 minutes |
The total travel time by bus or coach is 3 hours, and the itineraries are subject to change.
Tour Highlights
Explore Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a certified guide who’ll bring the ancient Mayan ruins to life.
After, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Saamal, a natural wonder.
Wander through the colonial charm of Valladolid, marveling at its historic architecture.
This combo tour includes multiple top attractions, offering a comprehensive experience of Yucatan’s cultural and natural highlights.
Whether you’re seeking archaeological wonders, natural beauty, or culture, this tour has it all, making it a must-do activity during your Cancun or Playa del Carmen vacation.
Included Services
This tour includes a full-day guided exploration of Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and the colonial city of Valladolid. The package provides a regional lunch buffet with drinks, and round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen and Cancun. Plus, the necessary Preservation Tax for Chichen Itza is included, with adult admission costing $22 and minors paying $19.
| Included Services |
|---|
| Guided tour of Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid |
| Regional lunch buffet with drinks |
| Round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen and Cancun |
| Preservation Tax for Chichen Itza |
This comprehensive tour ensures visitors can experience the highlights of the region without worrying about additional costs or logistics.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Certain travelers may find this tour unsuitable, including individuals over 95 years old, those with back problems, pregnant women, and those with serious medical conditions.
The tour group is limited to a maximum of 50 travelers. Visitors should bring a change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, and cash. Nudity isn’t allowed.
Confirmation is received at booking, and travelers should wear comfortable clothes and use sunscreen and sunglasses. Swimsuits, towels, and extra clothes for a change are recommended.
Pickup Locations
The tour offers pickup locations in Cancun and Playa del Carmen, with Cocobongo serving as the meeting point. This provides convenient access for travelers from both destinations. The pickup locations and schedules are as follows:
| Location | Pickup Time |
|---|---|
| Cancun | 7:00 AM |
| Playa del Carmen | 8:00 AM |
| Cocobongo | 8:30 AM |
| Cancun | 5:00 PM |
| Playa del Carmen | 6:00 PM |
The tour ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure, allowing participants to focus on the exciting Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid experiences.
Guided Tour of Chichen Itza
Travelers embark on a guided tour of Chichen Itza, the renowned Mayan archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage destination.
A certified guide leads them through the impressive ruins, offering insights into the site’s rich history and cultural significance. They’ll explore the iconic El Castillo pyramid, the Temple of Warriors, and the Great Ball Court, learning about the advanced engineering and astronomical knowledge of the ancient Mayans.
With free time to wander and take photos, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking architecture and imagine the vibrant civilization that once thrived here.
This in-depth tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the past.
Exploring Cenote Saamal and Valladolid
After exploring the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza, the tour takes visitors to the captivating natural wonder of Cenote Saamal, a serene, crystal-clear sinkhole where they can swim and refresh. This underground lake offers a unique opportunity to escape the heat and take in the natural beauty of the Yucatan.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Cenote Saamal is located near the colonial city of Valladolid. |
| Activities | Visitors can swim, snorkel, and explore the cenote’s depths. |
| Swim Time | Guests are allotted approximately 1 hour to enjoy the cenote. |
| Ambiance | The cenote’s clear waters and lush, natural surroundings create a peaceful, rejuvenating atmosphere. |
| Accessibility | The cenote is wheelchair-accessible, making it suitable for travelers of all abilities. |
After the refreshing swim, the tour continues to the charming colonial city of Valladolid, where guests have the opportunity to stroll through the historic streets and browse local shops and markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Solo Traveler?
Yes, solo travelers can book this tour. The tour is available for individual bookings, and there’s no requirement for a minimum group size. Solo travelers can enjoy the provided transportation, guided tours, and attractions as part of the tour package.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, the tour operator offers a private tour option for solo travelers or small groups. This provides a more personalized experience with a private vehicle and guide rather than joining a larger group tour.
Are the Tour Guides Fluent in Multiple Languages?
The tour guides are fluent in multiple languages, usually including English and Spanish, to accommodate the diverse nationalities of the group. They can provide informative commentary in the languages needed by the participants.
Can I Add Additional Stops or Customizations to the Itinerary?
Customers can’t add additional stops or customizations to the pre-set itinerary. The tour package has a fixed schedule and attractions. However, some flexibility may be available for group bookings or special requests made in advance.
What Is the Policy for Young Children or Infants on the Tour?
The tour accommodates children and infants. Travelers under 12 receive discounted pricing, and infants under 2 can join the tour for free. However, the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the length and activities.
Chichen Itza & Valladolid: From Cancun & Playa Del Carmen
Recap
This immersive day tour from Cancun and Playa del Carmen provides an in-depth exploration of the Yucatan’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will marvel at the impressive ruins of Chichen Itza, cool off in the serene waters of Cenote Saamal, and stroll through the colonial charm of Valladolid. With round-trip transportation, a regional lunch, and an expert guide, this tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the best of the Yucatan Peninsula.
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