Riviera Maya: Cobá and Chichén Itzá Tour with Cenote & Lunch in Tulum

Heading to the Riviera Maya on your next trip? Or maybe you’re already here, looking for some exciting things to do? Either way, a Cobá and Chichén Itzá Tour with Cenote & Lunch in Tulum should definitely be on your list! The Riviera Maya is one of the most popular destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula. It has a little something for everyone: incredible beaches, delicious cuisine, rich culture, and a wealth of activities to enjoy. So if you’re planning to visit or are already in the area, take some time to explore two of the Riviera Maya’s most important archaeological sites: Cobá and Chichén Itzá, followed by a cenote swim and lunch in beautiful Tulum.

What You need to Know before Heading to Cobá and Chichén Itzá

Cobá and Chichén Itzá are two of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most important archaeological sites. Built by the Mayan civilization, these two sites offer an up-close look at some of the region’s most treasured history. Here are some things you need to know before you go:

• Getting There: You can get to both sites by car or public transportation. If you choose to go by car, it will take you approximately 90 minutes to get to both sites. If you go by public transportation, it will take approximately 4 hours.
• Opening and Closing Hours: Both Cobá and Chichén Itzá have different opening and closing hours during peak and low seasons. Make sure to check their respective websites before planning your trip.
• Cost of Admissions: The cost of admissions vary from site to site. For example, admission to Cobá is $230 MXN and admission to Chichén Itzá is $164 MXN for visitors from Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. For visitors from North America and Europe, admission is $435 MXN for Chichén Itzá and it’s free for Cobá. You can find more information about admission costs here.
• What to Bring: Make sure to bring the following items with you on your trip: water bottle, sunscreen, hat, walking shoes, extra clothes, camera, cash and snacks.
• Recommended Time: We recommend spending at least 3–4 hours exploring both sites. This way you can have time to explore, take lots of photos, and learn about each site’s history.

An Overview of Cobá and Chichén Itzá

Cobá was one of the most important cities in the Yucatán Peninsula during the Classic Period of the Mayan civilization (250–900 A.D.). It served as a major trade center between Yucatán and strategic areas in Central America. Today, Cobá is an attractive site that offers ancient ruins with ceremonial buildings surrounded by lush vegetation — in fact, there are over 6,500 structures spread over 50 square kilometers. Some of the most visited structures include Nohoch Mul Pyramid (the highest in the Yucatán peninsula) and two sacbes (stone causeways) leading from Cobá to other Mayan cities in the region. Chichén Itzá is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Yucatán state. It is probably Mexico’s most visited archaeological site — it’s definitely one of the most beautiful! Here you’ll find awe-inspiring structures including El Castillo (the main pyramid), the Temple of the Warriors, the Observatory, the Ball Court, and other impressive structures. The architecture of its plazas, archways, and sculptures are said to have influenced many parts of Mexico and Central America.

What’s Included in a Cobá and Chichén Itzá Tour?

Most Cobá and Chichén Itzá tours include three main elements: Guided Tour + Cenote Swim + Lunch in Tulum. Firstly, your day will start with a guided tour of both sites so that you can explore each one with an expert guide who will explain their history and answer all your questions. During your tour you’ll visit both archaeological sites and learn about their importance throughout Mayan history. You’ll also see plenty of other interesting sights like cenotes (sinkholes or natural wells), agaves, haciendas, and other ancient ruins. After your Cobá and Chichén Itzá tour, you’ll stop at a nearby cenote for a refreshing swim and then make your way to Tulum for lunch at La Zebra or Encantada — two of the area’s most popular restaurants. We recommend ordering some delicious tacos or getting one of their special plates (they’re amazing!). Finally, before heading back home, make sure to walk around Tulum’s impressive beachside ruins — they’re equally as impressive as Cobá and Chichén Itzá!

Where To Book a Cobá & Chichen Itzá Tour?

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure that covers two of Mexico’s most impressive archaeological sites, plus a refreshing cenote swim and lunch in one of Tulum’s hippest spots — then it’s time to book a Cobá & Chichen Itzá tour! We recommend this one, which includes round trip transportation, private tour guide and entrance fees to both Cobá and Chichén Itzá — plus lunch in Tulum! Overall, a guided tour of Cobá & Chichen Itzá with cenote swim & lunch in Tulum is an incredible way to explore some of Mexico’s most incredible archaeological sites while also enjoying some delicious local cuisine – what’s not to love?! So, if you’re planning on visiting the Riviera Maya anytime soon, make sure to add this tour to your list — you won’t regret it!