Chichén Itzá Day Trip with Cenote Swim
Overview
Chichén Itzá is the best-known Maya city in Mexico and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's the day trip most people take from this coast. After an early pickup from your hotel, travel inland across the flat, jungle-covered Yucatán to the site.
With a licensed guide, stand in front of El Castillo, the Temple of Kukulcán, a stepped pyramid about 30 metres high. Its four staircases and nine terraces were laid out with the calendar in mind, and around the spring and autumn equinoxes the afternoon sun throws a shadow down its steps that looks like a snake. You'll also see the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors with its rows of carved columns, and the round Caracol observatory. Then there's free time to explore on your own.
After a buffet lunch, cool off with a swim in a cenote, a deep natural sinkhole filled with fresh water. Many tours use Ik Kil, where tree roots hang down to the water. Most routes also stop in the colonial town of Valladolid before the drive back.
It's a long day, but it's the easiest way to see Chichén Itzá from the coast. Climbing the pyramid isn't allowed.
Highlights
- El Castillo, the 30-metre Temple of Kukulcán
- Great Ball Court and Temple of the Warriors
- Guided tour, then free time on the site
- Swim in a cenote such as Ik Kil
- Stop in colonial Valladolid on most routes
What's included
- Return transport from Cancún and Riviera Maya hotels
- Licensed guide
- Chichén Itzá entrance
- Buffet lunch
- Cenote entrance
- Drinks with lunch (depending on the supplier)
- Life jacket and locker hire at the cenote, if charged
- Tips
Request this tour
Send us your dates and a SkyRay advisor will confirm availability and price.
Itinerary
Frequently asked questions
No. Climbing El Castillo isn't allowed, but you can walk all around it and the other main buildings.
Swimwear and a towel for the cenote, a hat, water, comfortable shoes and some pesos for extras. There's little shade on the site.
Yes, but it's a long day with a lot of time on the coach. Tell us your children's ages and we'll suggest the best option.
