Chichen Itza, Private Cenote/ Food Experience and Izamal

Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination for those seeking to enjoy the captivating history of the ancient Mayan civilization. The iconic El Castillo and the expansive Great Ball Court stand as testament to the architectural prowess of this remarkable site. After exploring these impressive ruins, visitors can indulge in a refreshing swim in a private cenote, surrounded by the lush Yucatan landscape, followed by a tantalizing culinary experience showcasing the region’s traditional flavors. The journey then continues to the vibrant town of Izamal, where the rich Mayan heritage is woven into the very fabric of the community. What secrets and insights await those who choose to uncover the treasures of this remarkable cultural tapestry?

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Dining Experiences In Piste Mexico.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Merida explores the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chichen Itza, a private cenote for swimming and regional cuisine, and the historic town of Izamal.
• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a licensed guide, admission fees, and a 9-hour immersive cultural experience for $73.25 per person.
• Highlights include a guided tour of Chichen Itza, a refreshing swim in a private cenote, and the opportunity to taste traditional Yucatan cuisine.
• The tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option for convenience.
• The tour starts from the downtown area of Merida, offering easy access and comfortable transportation with reclinable seats throughout the day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day tour from Merida offers visitors the chance to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, swim in a private cenote, and visit the historic town of Izamal.

Priced from $73.25 per person, the 9-hour tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, and all admission fees.

Highlights include a guided tour of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a refreshing swim in a private cenote, and a chance to experience traditional Yucatan cuisine.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option, this tour provides a convenient and immersive cultural experience.

Itinerary Details

The tour departs from C. 60 61 in Merida, with a 1.5-hour van ride to the iconic Chichen Itza site.

Upon arrival, guests will embark on a guided tour and have free time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site for approximately 2.33 hours.

Next, the tour heads to a private cenote, a natural swimming hole, for a 45-minute van ride.

Here, guests can enjoy swimming and a regional food experience for 2.5 hours.

The final stop is Izamal, the "yellow town," where a 45-minute van ride is followed by a guided tour and free time for sightseeing, lasting 75 minutes.

The tour then returns to the starting point in Merida.

The key stops include:

1. Chichen Itza: Guided tour and free time
2. Private Cenote: Swimming and regional food experience
3. Izamal: Guided tour and sightseeing

Inclusions

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation with reclinable seats to transport guests from the starting point in Merida’s centro area (zip code 97000).

A professional licensed tour guide accompanies the group, providing guided tours at Chichen Itza and Izamal.

The tour fee covers the Chichen Itza ticket, which costs $650 MXN, as well as access to a private cenote and a regional food experience.

Purified bottled water is provided throughout the day. Gratuities for the guide and driver are optional.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent.

Highlights

Explore Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a licensed guide and discover its rich history and architectural marvels. This tour offers a unique opportunity to:

1. Swim in a private cenote, a natural swimming hole with Mayan heritage, and learn about the region’s cultural traditions.

2. Experience the traditional Yucatan cuisine, prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, for a true taste of the local flavors.

3. Visit Izamal, the "yellow town," and explore its Mayan pyramid foundations, providing a glimpse into the area’s ancient past.

This comprehensive tour combines the must-see highlights of the Yucatan, offering an unforgettable cultural and experiential journey.

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Customer Reviews

According to the reviews, travelers have praised this tour for its small group size, personalized attention from the guide, and unique cultural experiences.

The tour received an overall rating of 5/5 based on 4 reviews. Travelers particularly enjoyed exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Chichen Itza with a licensed guide, swimming in a private cenote, and experiencing traditional Yucatan cuisine.

However, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Recommended items to bring include comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent.

Starting Location

The tour’s starting point is located at C. 60 61 in the bustling city of Merida.

This central location in the downtown area (zip code 97000) provides a convenient meeting point for participants. From here, the tour embarks on its journey to the renowned Chichen Itza archaeological site, a private cenote, and the charming town of Izamal.

The starting location offers several advantages:

1. Easy access for pickup in the centro area of Merida.
2. Proximity to major landmarks and attractions in the city center.
3. Comfortable air-conditioned transportation with reclinable seats awaits guests at the starting point.

Chichen Itza

A 1.5-hour van ride takes guests from the starting point in Merida to the iconic Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There, a licensed guide leads a 2.33-hour tour through the ancient Mayan ruins, sharing insights into the site’s history and cultural significance.

Visitors have free time to explore the well-preserved structures, including the famous El Castillo pyramid, the Great Ball Court, and the Temple of Warriors.

The guided tour and independent exploration offer a comprehensive experience, allowing guests to enjoy the grandeur and mysteries of this remarkable archaeological wonder.

Private Cenote and Izamal

After exploring the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza, the tour takes guests on a 45-minute van ride to a private cenote.

At the cenote, visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush vegetation and Mayan heritage. The experience also includes a regional food experience, allowing travelers to taste traditional Yucatan cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

The tour then continues to the town of Izamal, known for its distinctive yellow buildings and Mayan pyramid foundations.

Guests will have the opportunity to take a guided tour, explore the town’s vibrant streets, and enjoy free time for sightseeing.

1. Swim in a private cenote
2. Enjoy a regional food experience
3. Explore the historic town of Izamal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit the customer’s preferences. The tour provider offers a flexible itinerary and can accommodate requests to adjust the duration, activities, or focus areas of the tour.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The price quoted includes all major costs, such as transportation, entrance fees, and food experiences. However, travelers should be aware that optional gratuities for the guide aren’t included and are at the discretion of the customer.

Can I Book the Tour for a Larger Group or a Private Tour?

The tour can accommodate larger groups or be booked as a private tour. Customers should contact the tour operator to inquire about availability and pricing for group size adjustments.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a small group size, though a private tour option is available. The maximum group size is not specified, but the tour emphasizes personalized attention from the guide.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks for the Tour?

The tour includes purified bottled water, so bringing your own snacks and drinks is not strictly necessary. However, you may want to pack some extra snacks or drinks if you have specific dietary needs or preferences.

Recap

This tour offers a comprehensive experience in the Yucatan, immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization. From the awe-inspiring ruins of Chichen Itza to the serene swim in a private cenote and the charming streets of Izamal, this journey showcases the diverse natural and historical wonders of the region. A must-visit for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable exploration of Mayan legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: