About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, if you’ve been in this industry as long as I have, you know that the "Chichen run" is the absolute bread and butter of Cancun’s inventory. It’s the kind of high-volume product that keeps the ground operators busy and the occupancy levels healthy. But honestly? cynicism aside, it stays popular for a reason. While I usually tell people to avoid the heavy-traffic spots, this itinerary is actually efficient. It bundles the logistics of three distinct locations—which would be a nightmare to coordinate on your own—into one seamless day. We rarely see this level of value retention in a single package. Just a quick tip: the lead time on this can be short during peak season, so don't sit on it. It’s a classic for a reason, even if the industry likes to upsell the "VIP" options a bit too aggressively.
About the Tour
This tour is designed to be the ultimate Yucatán sampler, giving you a heavy dose of history, a bit of nature, and a touch of colonial culture without the stress of planning it yourself.
The day kicks off with the main event: Chichen Itza. As a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders, it’s the heavy hitter of the itinerary. You aren't just dropped off at the gate; you follow an expert guide who actually knows their stuff. They’ll walk you through the significance of the Kukulcán Pyramid and the Great Ball Court, breaking down the astronomical genius of the Mayans. It’s fascinating to hear about the rituals that took place right where you're standing.
After the heat of the ruins, the logistics shift to something cooler. The tour moves to a hidden cenote. If you haven't swum in one of these limestone sinkholes yet, you're in for a treat. The water is crystal-clear and refreshingly cold—a perfect reset after the humidity of the archaeological site.
Here is where the options split a bit. There is a lunch stop featuring traditional Yucatecan dishes. If you grab the VIP option, this includes a buffet and a tequila tasting, which is a nice touch if you want the full experience. Finally, the bus heads to Valladolid. It’s a charming colonial city with colorful streets that look great on camera. It’s a quieter, more relaxed end to a day that is otherwise packed with adventure. Not often do you find a day trip that balances the pacing this well.
Highlights
- Explore the ancient city of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Learn about the Mayan civilization and the significance of the Kukulcán Pyramid
- Take a refreshing swim in a cenote and enjoy a delicious buffet of local dishes
- Discover the colonial city of Valladolid and its colorful streets and history
- Enjoy a tequila tasting and learn about the production of this iconic drink
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect from the sun.
- Swimming in the cenote is optional, so bring swimwear if you plan to swim.
- The tour involves walking, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
- The Chichen Itza tax is 39 USD per adult and 6 USD per child. It must be paid by credit card only on the day of the tour or the day before.
- Mexicans, children, students, and teachers (residents in Mexico) have a discount on the Chichen Itza tax upon presentation of their ID on the day of the tour. The discount will not be applicable without the official identification.
- The Standard Tour does not include the buffet lunch.
What to bring
Not allowed
Includes / Excluded
Itinerary
4 pickup location options:
InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort, Hotel Zone, MP1 Amigotoiurs, Smart Cancun by Oasis See more
Bus/coach
(75 minutes)
Chichén Itzá
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Free time, Sightseeing (2.5 hours)
Bus/coach
(30 minutes)
Cenote Chichikan, Valladolid
Lunch, Free time, Swimming (2.5 hours)
Bus/coach
(40 minutes)
Valladolid, Mexico
Free time, Shopping, Sightseeing, Walk (30 minutes)
Bus/coach
(1 hour)
4 drop-off locations:
MP1 Amigotoiurs, Hotel Zone, Smart Cancun by Oasis, InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort See more