How to plan your Playa del Carmen: Chichen Itzá, Cenote and Valladolid Tour

If you are planning a visit to Quintana Roo, then experiencing the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá is an absolute must. One of the most popular and best-rated tours in the area is the Playa del Carmen: Chichen Itzá, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour. In this post, we will guide you through everything you need to know to plan your visit to this ancient world wonder.

Experience

The Chichen Itzá tour is a full-day trip that takes you from Playa del Carmen to the famed ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá. Besides exploring the ruins, you will have the opportunity of swimming in the sacred waters of a cenote, sampling authentic Yucatán specialties in a buffet, and walking the streets of the colonial town of Valladolid.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of this tour include:

• Exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá
• Swimming in the sacred waters of a cenote
• Learning fascinating facts and folklore from expert guides
• Enjoying a delicious buffet lunch of Yucatán specialties
• Strolling the streets of the charming colonial town of Valladolid

The Tour Itinerary

Here is a detailed itinerary of what to expect on the Chichen Itzá tour:

Hotel pick-up and drop off

The tour picks you up from your hotel in Playa del Carmen at around 7:00 AM. The vehicle used will depend on the number of people, but it will be comfortable and spacious enough for everyone. The journey from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itzá takes approximately 2.5 hours, so relax and enjoy the ride.

Arrival at Chichen Itzá

Once you arrive at Chichen Itzá, your expert guide will lead you through the famous ruins, providing you with fascinating facts and background information as you explore the temples, pyramids, and ball courts.

Swimming in a cenote

You will visit an eco-park near Chichen Itzá, which offers breathtaking swimming opportunities in the crystal-clear waters of a cenote. The natural pool is surrounded by lush vegetation, and you can relax or swim to your heart’s content before heading to your lunch destination.

Buffet Lunch

You will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch of Yucatán specialties at a local restaurant. The menu includes regional food like cochinita pibil, papadzules, and sopa de lima. There will also be vegetarian options available.

Valladolid

After lunch, you will visit the charming colonial town of Valladolid. The town is located in the heart of the Yucatán peninsula and is known for its colonial architecture.

Return to Playa del Carmen

After exploring Valladolid and having some free time, you will head back to Playa del Carmen, arriving in the evening.

What’s Included

The Chichen Itzá tour includes:

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Local guide
• Entrance fees
• Buffet lunch
• State taxes: $35 per adult and $5 per child must be paid via cash or card upon check-in
• Mandatory life jacket rental in the cenote $3 per person

What’s Not Included

These items are not included in the tour cost, and you will need to pay for them out of pocket:

• Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
• Other drinks
• Tips

Important Notes

The following are essential notes for anyone interested in the Chichen Itzá tour:

• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• The minimum age for the tour is four years.
• You should bring comfortable clothes, a hat, and sunscreen.
• You should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking in the ruins.
• You should bring a swimsuit and a light towel for swimming in the cenote.

Booking the Tour

The Chichen Itzá tour is operated by a third-party company, and you can book it by following this link. The website is trusted, and you can read reviews from other travelers before making your purchase.

Conclusion

We hope that this guide has provided you with all the necessary information to plan your trip to Chichen Itzá from Playa del Carmen. The tour is a fantastic opportunity to explore the Mayan culture while enjoying some of the area’s most breathtaking natural wonders. If you are looking for an exciting and informative day out, we highly recommend the Playa del Carmen: Chichen Itzá, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour.

Insider’s Guide to Playa del Carmen: Going Beyond the Tourist Trail

If you’re headed to Playa del Carmen, it’s time to think beyond the mainstream attractions and dive into the hidden gems of the city. As an insider, I’ve got the lowdown on the best-kept secrets that will make your stay unforgettable. Let’s get started:

Local Attractions: The Road Less Traveled

While it’s tempting to head straight to the most popular tourist spots, there are plenty of lesser-known attractions that will give you a unique taste of Playa del Carmen. Visit Xpu-Ha Beach for a quieter stretch of sand with unbeatable views. Head to Punta Laguna Nature Reserve for a chance to see spider monkeys in their natural habitat. Or, for a glimpse into local life, explore Leona Vicario, a small town outside of the city that is known for traditional handicrafts.

Dining Spots: The Foodie Scene

The cuisine of Playa del Carmen is a fusion of traditional Mayan and Spanish flavors, with some Caribbean influence thrown in for good measure. To experience the best of this unique culinary scene, check out the city’s street food markets, where you’ll find delicious grilled meats, fresh seafood, and a variety of snacks and sweets. For a sit-down meal, head to La Bodeguita del Medio, a Cuban restaurant that’s famous for its mojitos and live music.

Cultural Experiences: Vibrant Traditions

Playa del Carmen is a city with deep cultural roots, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience these traditions firsthand. Take in a performance by the Ballet Folklórico de Playa del Carmen, a local dance group that showcases the region’s traditional costumes and music. Or visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, which celebrates the life and work of the iconic Mexican artist. You can also join in the celebrations during the Día de los Muertos festival, when the city comes alive with art, music, and colorful costumes.

Local History: Fascinating Stories

Playa del Carmen has a rich history that goes far beyond the beach resorts and tourist attractions. For a deeper understanding of the city’s past, visit the San Gervasio Ruins, a Mayan archaeological site that was once an important pilgrimage destination. Or head to the Museo de la Ciudad, which tells the story of Playa del Carmen from its early days as a small fishing village to its present-day status as one of Mexico’s top tourist destinations.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Adventures

For those who crave adventure and excitement, Playa del Carmen has plenty to offer beyond the typical activities. Take a Jeep tour into the jungle to swim in hidden cenotes and explore ancient caves. Or, head to Xcaret Park for an eco-friendly adventure that includes snorkeling, zip-lining, and a chance to see exotic wildlife up close. For a truly unique experience, consider a hot air balloon ride over the Yucatan Peninsula, where you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscapes and ancient ruins.

By venturing beyond the standard tourist itinerary and embracing the local culture and experiences that Playa del Carmen has to offer, you’ll return home with unforgettable memories and stories to share.