Chichen Itza + Cenote + Izamal – From Merida

Explore the ancient wonders of Chichen Itza, cool off in the crystal-clear waters of a cenote, and stroll through the charming colonial town of Izamal – all in a single day trip from Merida. This small-group excursion offers an immersive experience, with a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed ruins, a refreshing swim, and the opportunity to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of a picturesque Mexican town. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking an adventure, this well-curated itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories. What’s in store for your unforgettable day?

Good To Know

• This 10-hour excursion from Merida visits Chichen Itza, a nearby cenote, and the colonial town of Izamal, providing a well-rounded cultural and natural experience.
• Guided tours at each location, including a 2-hour exploration of Chichen Itza’s Mayan ruins, offer in-depth insights into the region’s history and architecture.
• Refreshing 2-hour swim at Cenote Xcajum provides a respite from the heat and an opportunity to immerse in the area’s natural beauty.
• Sightseeing in Izamal’s picturesque yellow-hued colonial town allows for culture and unique photography opportunities.
• The small-group format of up to 12 participants ensures an intimate, flexible, and personalized experience for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Destinations and Duration

The tour takes visitors to three main destinations – Chichén Itzá, a cenote, and the colonial town of Izamal.

At Chichén Itzá, you’ll embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the impressive Mayan ruins.

Then, it’s off to a nearby cenote for 2 hours of refreshing swimming.

The final stop is Izamal, where you’ll have 2 hours to explore the colorful, yellow-hued colonial architecture and visit a photo-worthy convent.

The entire excursion lasts 10 hours, with transportation provided in an air-conditioned van.

With an early 6:00 AM start, you’ll beat the crowds and the heat for an immersive cultural experience.

Pricing and Group Size

The tour is priced from €70.78 per person, making it an affordable option for those seeking an immersive cultural experience in the Yucatán.

The group size is capped at a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate exploration of the region’s highlights. This small-group approach allows for more flexibility, closer interaction with the knowledgeable guides, and a better opportunity to capture unique photographs without large crowds.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, this tour offers an exceptional value that caters to your needs and preferences.

Languages and Accessibility

The tour accommodates participants of diverse linguistic backgrounds, offering guided commentary in both English and Spanish.

This inclusive approach ensures that all travelers can fully enjoy the cultural and historical richness of the destinations.

Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

This thoughtful consideration demonstrates the tour operator’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience for all.

With these inclusive features, the tour caters to a wide range of travelers, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the wonders of Chichen Itza, the Cenote, and Izamal at their own pace and comfort level.

Itinerary Details

Starting from Parque de los Hidalgos, the tour whisks participants away on a 1.5-hour van ride to the legendary Chichen Itza site.

Once there, a 2-hour guided tour immerses visitors in the rich history and architectural wonders of this ancient Mayan city.

The next stop is the scenic Xcajum Cenote, just 20 minutes away by van. After a refreshing 2-hour swim, the group travels to the vibrant town of Izamal for a 2-hour photo stop and sightseeing.

The journey concludes with a 1-hour return to Parque de los Hidalgos, leaving guests with unforgettable memories of Yucatan’s captivating highlights.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Chichen Itza Guided Tour

Upon arrival at Chichen Itza, an expert guide leads the group on a captivating 2-hour exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travelers marvel at the iconic El Castillo pyramid, the impressive Temple of Warriors, and the enigmatic El Caracol observatory.

The guide brings the ancient Mayan civilization to life, sharing fascinating insights into the site’s history, architecture, and cultural significance.

Participants have ample opportunities to take breathtaking photos without the crowds, capturing the grandeur of this archaeological wonder.

The guided tour provides a comprehensive understanding of Chichen Itza, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the site’s historical importance and the enduring legacy of the Maya people.

Cenote Swimming Experience

After exploring the captivating ruins of Chichen Itza, the tour continues to the nearby Cenote Xcajum, a remarkable natural sinkhole.

Visitors are given around 2 hours to swim and relax in the crystalline waters of this underground oasis. The cenote’s cool, refreshing temperature provides a welcome respite from the Yucatan heat.

Descending into the cenote, guests are treated to stunning rock formations and lush, verdant vegetation. It’s an opportunity to take in the region’s natural beauty and serene tranquility.

Equipped with towels and swimwear, travelers can fully enjoy this idyllic setting before moving on to the charming colonial town of Izamal.

Izamal Sightseeing

The tour then proceeds to the charming colonial town of Izamal, where visitors are treated to a delightful sightseeing experience.

The group will have the opportunity to explore the town’s picturesque streets, admiring the vibrant yellow buildings that earned Izamal the nickname "The Yellow City."

Highlights include a photo stop at the iconic Convent of San Antonio de Padua, a 16th-century Franciscan monastery, and time to wander the town’s bustling markets and shops.

With 2 hours allotted, travelers can enjoy the town’s rich history and unique cultural heritage, making for a truly memorable experience.

What to Bring and Restrictions

Packing the right gear is crucial for an enjoyable and comfortable Chichen Itza and cenote tour. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect against the tropical sun. Don’t forget a change of clothes, a towel, and water sandals for swimming in the cenote. A small daypack will come in handy for carrying essentials. Remember to bring cash for entrance fees and any souvenirs. Certain items are prohibited, including:

Prohibited Items	Reason
Weapons	Safety
Drones	Restricted access
Tripods	Prohibited by sites
Alcohol	Site regulations
Drugs	Illegal in Mexico

Following these packing tips and restrictions will ensure an unforgettable Yucatan experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation to and From the Starting Point Included?

Yes, the transportation to and from the starting point at Parque de los Hidalgos is included in the tour price. The tour provides air-conditioned van transportation for the full-day excursion.

What Time Does the Tour End?

The tour ends around 5:00 PM, with the return to the starting point at Parque de los Hidalgos taking approximately 1 hour. This provides a full day of exploration and activities, allowing ample time to experience the highlights of the tour.

Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, this tour can be booked by solo travelers. The maximum group size is 12 participants, so solo travelers will have a personalized experience exploring the sites with knowledgeable guides.

Are Refreshments Provided During the Tour?

Yes, the tour provides refreshments throughout the day. It includes a buffet lunch as well as bottled water, keeping travelers energized and hydrated during the 10-hour excursion to the Mayan ruins, cenote, and historic town.

Can I Extend the Time Spent at Any of the Sites?

The tour’s itinerary and schedule are fixed, but travelers can inquire about extending their time at the sites if they’d like more time to explore. However, this may incur additional costs or require arranging separate transportation.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture of the Yucatán peninsula on this unforgettable day trip from Merida. Explore the ancient wonders of Chichén Itzá, cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Xcajum, and stroll through the charming streets of Izamal, all while enjoying personalized attention and cultural insights in a small-group setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: