Premium Chichén Itzá Tour + Private Cenote and Valladolid
- 12-13h
Description
Join us on our tour to Chichén Itzá and the Noolha private cenote, two must-see treasures on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. On this adventure, you'll explore Chichén Itzá, an astonishing complex of Mayan ruins that holds the title of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the ancient Maya as you explore this fascinating archaeological site.
But that's not all. Our trip also takes you to the charming colonial city of Valladolid, where you can enjoy traditional architecture and the authentic atmosphere of Mexico. Plus, you'll get to cool off and recharge your spirit at Noolha, a sacred cenote with crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush jungle, where we'll have time reserved just for our group.
Premium Chichén Itzá tour + private cenote and Valladolid: your adventure begins
This tour is especially recommended if you're starting out from Cancún or Puerto Morelos, since we'll pick you up at your hotel and travel comfortably by road to Chichen Itzá—though, of course, it's just as highly recommended from any other destination.
Once we're on the road, no matter where you were picked up, you'll dive into the rich Mayan culture alongside an expert guide in Mayan history as you explore the impressive archaeological site of Chichén Itzá. There you can admire the majesty of the ruins and uncover the secrets of this ancient civilization.
After touring Chichén Itzá, a buffet lunch with traditional regional dishes awaits you. Here you'll have the chance to watch a unique culinary demonstration in the village of Kaua, experiencing the tradition and innovation in the use of plants, vegetables and wild game that transcends borders and reflects the area's rich culinary diversity, while also visiting a picturesque artisan village to discover local treasures.
The adventure continues with a visit to the renowned Noolha private cenote, where you can cool off in its crystal-clear waters surrounded by natural beauty. To wrap up the tour, we'll make a short stop of about 30 minutes in the colonial city of Valladolid, where you can try the famous marquesitas, a Yucatecan treat that puts the finishing touch on an unforgettable experience.
This tour gives you the chance to explore, learn, enjoy and savor the best of Mayan and Yucatecan culture in a single day!
During the fall equinox (September 21–23) and the spring equinox (March 21–23), the itinerary may change. Viewing the equinox phenomenon during the tour is not guaranteed.
Details
- 12-13h
- Tour duration may vary depending on your hotel's location and daily operations.
- Hotel pickup.
- Exceptions and meeting points:
- Tulum (Downtown and Hotel Zone): The meeting point is Super Akí Tulum.
- Centrally located accommodations in Cancún and Playa del Carmen (Airbnbs, boutique hotels, or private rentals): Please ask for the meeting point.
- Puerto Morelos, Cancún and Costa Mujeres areas:
- Spanish and English: Monday to Friday.
- Portuguese: Monday and Wednesday
- Playa del Carmen to Tulum area:
- Spanish and English: Monday to Friday.
- French: Monday and Thursday.
- Portuguese: Tuesday.
- Italian: Wednesday.
- Hotel transportation
- Entrance fees and federal taxes
- Guided tour of Chichén Itzá
- Bilingual cultural guide
- Buffet lunch (drinks not included)
- Entrance to Noolha cenote (life jacket included)
- Food demonstration and visit to an artisan village
- Visit to Valladolid (30 min)
- 2 bottles of water during the tour
- If you also choose the PLUS Option:
- Snack on board the transportation
- 1 drink with lunch
- Lockers
- Drinks (regular option)
- Lockers (regular option)
- Tips (optional)
- Comfortable shoes
- Change of clothes
- Flip-flops
- Sunscreen
- Towel
- Swimsuit
- Hat
- Cash
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Backpacks are not allowed inside Chichén Itzá
- Depending on the day's operations, hotel pickup may be done with connecting vehicles to speed up the process, and the longest leg of the trip may be made by bus or van depending on the day's operations
- If your hotel is located between Cancún (including Costa Mujeres) and Puerto Morelos and you're looking to visit the Chichén Itzá archaeological zone, this is the best option, since you can go straight by highway from Cancún without having to travel down the whole Riviera Maya
Frequently asked questions
When should I book?
We recommend booking this tour in advance, as it is in high demand, spots are limited, and they are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Simply complete the booking process with the required information, including your preferred date and the number of participants.
Is a tour to Chichén Itzá worth it?
Chichén Itzá is one of the most iconic and famous archaeological destinations in Mexico and a major archaeological site on the Yucatán Peninsula. This fascinating place is an impressive testament to the pre-Columbian Mayan civilization that flourished in the region between the 6th and 13th centuries AD. Beyond its historical importance, Chichén Itzá has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The heart of Chichén Itzá is its most emblematic pyramid, known as “El Castillo” or the “Temple of Kukulcán.” This stepped pyramid is an architectural and astronomical marvel, famous for its alignment with the equinoxes, which creates the illusion of a serpent descending the main staircase during those events. Chichén Itzá is home to a number of other notable buildings and structures, including the Temple of the Warriors, the Ball Court, the Sacred Cenote and the Observatory.
What is the Nool-Ha cenote like?
A cavern-type cenote with crystal-clear blue water that connects you with the very essence of Mayan culture. The cenote is located at the entrance to Valladolid, just 5 minutes from Chichikan.
What will you do on the Chichén Itzá and Noolha cenote tour?
On this exciting tour, you'll enter the ruins of Chichén Itzá guided by an expert in Mayan culture. Then you'll enjoy a buffet lunch with regional dishes and a food demonstration. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Noolha cenote, one of the most famous in Yucatán. The adventure wraps up with a stop in the colonial city of Valladolid before returning to your hotel.
How long does it take to get from Cancún or Puerto Morelos to Chichén Itzá?
The trip from Cancún to Chichén Itzá takes approximately two to two and a half hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. From Puerto Morelos to Chichén Itzá, the travel time is similar, since both destinations are on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, relatively close to Chichén Itzá. Keep in mind that the road trip also gives you the chance to enjoy the region's scenery.
Where are Chichén Itzá and the Noolha cenote located?
Chichén Itzá and the Noolha cenote are on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, in the state of Yucatán. Chichén Itzá is located in the municipality of Tinum, while the Noolha cenote is near Valladolid. Both destinations are accessible from Cancún and Puerto Morelos, which are on the east coast of the peninsula.
Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, we recommend booking this tour to Chichén Itzá and the Noolha cenote in advance, especially during the high tourist season in Cancún and Puerto Morelos, to make sure you have a guaranteed spot on the tour.
What should I bring on the tour to Chichén Itzá and Noolha cenote from Cancún and Puerto Morelos?
We recommend bringing light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent and cash for purchases or meals. And don't forget your camera or cell phone to capture the stunning scenery and memories of this unique experience. Please also note that there is an extra charge for bringing DSLR cameras, GoPros or similar, and drones are not allowed.
What other nearby tourist sites can I visit during the tour?
On this tour to Chichén Itzá and the Noolha cenote, you'll also get to make a short stop in the colonial city of Valladolid, a charming destination in its own right, where you can enjoy its unique architecture and food, as well as buy a souvenir.
Is this tour safe?
Your safety is our top priority. We have guides and proper safety equipment, and we follow strict regulations so you can enjoy the tour responsibly. All of our tours include travel insurance, which protects you in case of any unexpected event during the trip or the outdoor and water activities.
Is the Chichén Itzá + Noolha cenote tour from Cancún and Puerto Morelos a good option for kids?
Yes, the Chichén Itzá and Noolha cenote tour from Cancún and Puerto Morelos can be a great option for kids. Our tours are designed to be family-friendly and offer educational and exciting activities for little ones, such as exploring the ruins of Chichén Itzá, swimming in the Noolha cenote and trying delicious local food. However, it's important to consider the length of the trip and your kids' interest in Mayan history and culture before deciding, as it can be a long day.
Do I need to go as a group on the Chichén Itzá and Noolha cenote tour from Puerto Morelos and Cancún?
You don't need to go as a group on the Chichén Itzá and Noolha cenote tour from Puerto Morelos and Cancún. However, if you're looking for a private experience with more flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace, we can create a custom private tour for you. Both options work, depending on your personal preferences.
How long is the Chichén Itzá and Noolha cenote tour from Cancún and Puerto Morelos?
The Chichén Itzá and Noolha cenote tour from Cancún and Puerto Morelos usually lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, including round-trip transportation time from the destinations mentioned.
Can I swim in the Noolha cenote?
Yes, you can swim in the Noolha cenote. The crystal-clear waters of this cenote are perfect for cooling off and enjoying a relaxing swim after exploring Chichén Itzá. Life jackets are provided for added safety.
What kind of food is served at the buffet?
On this tour, you'll enjoy a unique food demonstration showcasing the tradition and innovation in the use of plants, vegetables and wild game that transcends borders and symbolizes the rich culinary diversity of the area.
What services are not included in this tour?
The regular tour option does not include drinks with the buffet lunch. With the plus option, you get one drink included, breakfast on board and drinks during the ride to Chichén Itzá.
Can I buy souvenirs at Chichén Itzá?
Yes, at Chichén Itzá you'll find places to buy souvenirs such as local handicrafts, T-shirts, jewelry and other keepsakes related to Mayan culture and the archaeological site.
Which operator will I take this tour with?
Your provider's name will appear directly on the confirmation voucher after you book. We work hand in hand with local partners for shared experiences, while at Xplora Riviera we operate our private tours directly. Either way, we are your main point of contact: message us on WhatsApp when you arrive at your destination and we'll take care of anything you need.
What is the best time of year to visit Chichén Itzá?
Any time of year is good for this tour; however, the most recommended time is during the dry season, from November to April, since the weather is cooler during these months and there is less chance of rain, letting you fully enjoy your visit to the archaeological site and avoid the crowds of the rainy season, which runs from June to October.
How can I pay for tours with Xplora Riviera?
At Xplora Riviera, we don't want booking and paying for your tours to be a hassle. That's why we offer multiple payment options for our tours: MasterCard, Visa, Maestro. We also accept PayPal or bank transfer. Start planning the trip of your dreams with us today! Shall we talk?
Cancellation
- Free! Cancel at no cost up to 72 hours before the activity. If you cancel later:
- Cancellations less than 72 hours in advance: a 30% penalty of the total amount applies.
- Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance: a 100% penalty of the total amount applies.
- No-shows: 100% penalty, except in case of an accident or a justified medical reason.
- If you need to reschedule your tour, we'll do everything we can to move your booking to the new date you choose, as long as there is real availability on the date you want.