Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins Small Group

The Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico is home to a remarkable collection of ancient Mayan ruins, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. Among these standout sites are Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins – a trio that draws visitors from around the world. Through a carefully curated small group tour, travelers can enjoy the architectural wonders and cultural legacies of these iconic destinations, uncovering the captivating stories that have endured for centuries. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and all-inclusive amenities, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression on anyone seeking to unravel the mysteries of the Mayan civilization.

Key Points

• This small group tour offers a rundown of the notable Mayan sites in the Yucatan Peninsula, including Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba ruins.
• Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, showcases the Mayan architectural and historical significance.
• Cenote Ik Kil provides a refreshing swim in a serene, natural sinkhole surrounded by lush vegetation, offering a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation.
• Coba ruins, a less-restored Mayan site, offers an immersive experience with well-preserved structures and the option to explore by bicycle or traditional Mayan transport.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, breakfast, buffet lunch, and entrance fees, providing a seamless and unforgettable day for travelers.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour offers visitors a comprehensive look at some of the most notable Mayan sites in the Yucatan Peninsula, including the iconic Chichen Itza, the serene Cenote Ik Kil, and the less-restored ruins of Coba.

Traveling in a small group of no more than 15 people, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience with ample time to explore each location.

The tour includes breakfast, a buffet lunch, and entrance fees to Cenote Ik Kil and Coba. You’ll also have the opportunity to swim in the refreshing waters of Cenote Ik Kil and choose between biking or being wheeled around the Coba ruins.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour makes for a seamless and unforgettable day.

Chichen Itza Highlights

At the heart of the tour lies Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Visitors can’t help but be awed by the majestic Kukulkan pyramid, the striking El Caracol observatory, and the impressive Temple of the Warriors, all of which are part of the guided tour.

Kukulkan Pyramid: The iconic stepped pyramid, also known as El Castillo, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient Mayans.

El Caracol: This well-preserved observatory showcases the Mayans’ advanced knowledge of astronomy and their ability to track celestial events.

Temple of the Warriors: This grand temple complex features intricate carvings and the remnants of thousands of carved warrior columns.

Exploring Cenote Ik Kil

After exploring the ancient wonders of Chichen Itza, the tour takes visitors to the captivating Cenote Ik Kil, a natural sinkhole that offers a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear waters.

Descending 85 feet below the surface, the cenote is surrounded by lush vegetation and towering limestone walls that create a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Visitors are provided with life jackets and can take a dip in the cool, revitalizing waters, which are fed by underground springs. The cenote also features a small waterfall cascading into the pool, adding to the natural beauty of this unique geological formation.

With its stunning setting and rejuvenating swim, Cenote Ik Kil is a highlight of the tour.

Discovering Coba Ruins

From the tranquil waters of Cenote Ik Kil, the tour ventures to the less-restored Mayan ruins of Coba, offering a more exciting and immersive experience for visitors.

The ancient city’s sprawling layout and well-preserved structures provide a glimpse into the sophisticated civilization that once thrived in this region. Guests can choose to explore the site by rented bicycle or be wheeled around in traditional Mayan transport.

The guided tour highlights the site’s most impressive features, including:

1. Ancient stelae, or carved stone slabs, that reveal the history and beliefs of the Coba people.
2. The Nohoch Mul pyramid, one of the tallest Mayan structures in the Yucatan Peninsula.
3. The interconnected network of causeways that connected Coba to other Mayan cities.

Transportation and Pickup

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya, with an additional charge for pickup from the Cancun area ($15-$20 per person). This convenient transportation service ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s adventures.

Guests will be picked up from their hotels or designated meeting points in the Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya areas. For those staying in the Cancun region, a small additional fee applies for the pickup service.

This allows the tour to accommodate travelers from various locations across the Yucatan Peninsula. The drop-off at the end of the day returns guests to their original pickup points, providing a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Included Amenities

This small group tour includes several amenities to enhance the overall experience. Travelers will enjoy a complimentary breakfast to start the day, as well as a hearty buffet lunch during the midday break. Entrance fees for both the Cenote Ik Kil and the Coba Mayan Ruins are also covered, allowing guests to fully explore these remarkable sites without additional out-of-pocket costs.

The tour also provides the following inclusions:

1. Life jackets and lockers at the Cenote Ik Kil, ensuring a safe and convenient swimming experience.
2. The option to hire bikes or be wheeled around the Coba Mayan Ruins site, offering flexibility and ease of exploration.
3. Guided tours at both the Chichen Itza and Coba Mayan Ruins, providing valuable insights and context to enhance the historical and cultural understanding.

Site Entrance Fees

Entrance fees for the sites visited on this tour are not included in the overall package price. Adults must pay $40 to access Chichen Itza, while children’s admission is $5. These fees are collected at the time of pickup, prior to the start of the tour.

Site	Adult Entrance Fee	Child Entrance Fee
Chichen Itza	$40	$5
Cenote Ik Kil	Included	Included
Coba Mayan Ruins	Included	Included

The entrance fees for Cenote Ik Kil and Coba Mayan Ruins are included in the tour package price. Guests can expect a smooth and hassle-free experience, as all necessary admission costs are handled by the tour operator.

Tour Duration and Group Size

A full-day itinerary allows travelers ample time to explore Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and the Coba Mayan Ruins in depth.

The small group size, capped at 12-15 participants, ensures a more personalized and intimate experience during the tour.

Key benefits of the tour’s duration and group size include:

1. Flexibility to spend quality time at each site without feeling rushed.

2. Opportunities for in-depth discussions with the knowledgeable guide and deeper engagement with the historical and cultural aspects of the attractions.

3. A more comfortable and enjoyable group dynamic, allowing for better interaction and sharing of experiences among fellow travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a buffet lunch is included in the tour price, so bringing additional snacks and drinks is optional. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any restrictions.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Site Visit?

The tour allocates approximately 2-3 hours at each site, allowing visitors ample time to explore the main highlights and features. The schedule provides a balanced experience across the different locations on the full-day excursion.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

Photography is generally permitted during the tour, but visitors should be mindful of any site-specific restrictions. Some locations may prohibit flash photography or limit access to certain areas for photography. Travelers should follow the guidance of the tour guide.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if the tour is cancelled at least 24-48 hours in advance. However, there may be penalties for last-minute cancellations. Customers should check the specific policy before booking.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour operator doesn’t offer customization options. The itinerary is pre-set to cover the key highlights of Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins. Travelers must follow the scheduled activities and stops during the full-day tour.

Recap

This small group tour to Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins provides a comprehensive exploration of Mayan wonders.

Visitors will be captivated by the iconic Kukulkan pyramid, the serene Cenote Ik Kil, and the less-restored Coba ruins.

With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, breakfast, buffet lunch, and all entrance fees included, this tour offers an unforgettable day filled with insights into the architectural and historical significance of these Mayan sites.