Ride the Mayan Train to the New Great Museum and Z.A. from Chichen Itza

Ride the Mayan Train to the New Great Museum and Z.A. from Chichen Itza

Travel enthusiasts, rejoice—there’s a new way to explore the iconic ruins of Chichen Itza combined with a modern train journey through the Yucatán Peninsula. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and carefully curated experiences suggest it’s a well-thought-out adventure that balances history, modernity, and gastronomy.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to see Chichen Itza with expert guides who bring the ruins to life. Second, the opportunity to visit the New Great Museum of the Mayan World, which houses over 400 archaeological pieces—an absolute treasure trove for history buffs. Third, the scenic train ride on the Mayan Train, offering a smooth, comfortable journey through stunning landscapes. However, a key consideration is that some of the attractions, like Kukulcán pyramid and the museum, do not include admission tickets in the price, so additional costs are worth factoring in.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, culturally rich day without the hassle of logistics, especially those interested in combining history with modern travel. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided commentary, regional cuisine, and a mix of archaeological sites and contemporary Yucatán experiences.

Good To Know

• Well-structured itinerary with a blend of history, culture, and scenic train travel
• Expert guides providing insights into Mayan civilization and modern discoveries
• Delicious regional cuisine included at the buffet lunch in Chichen Itza
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and a smooth 2-hour train ride
• Admission tickets to key sites are included; however, some attractions are pay-on-arrival
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours before start

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The journey begins early, with a pickup from your Cancun hotel around 6:30 am. This generous start time means you’ll avoid the biggest crowds and get to enjoy the sites with a bit more tranquility. The transfer to the train station takes about 30 minutes, and from there, you’re on a 120-minute train ride aboard the Mayan Train, which is praised for its cleanliness, smoothness, and modern facilities. According to reviews, the train can reach speeds of around 70-75 MPH, making the journey both comfortable and efficient—a definite plus for travelers who dislike long bus rides.

The Chichen Itza Site and Its Wonders

Once at the Chichen Itza station, your first stop is El Castillo, the pyramid of Kukulcán. Recognized as one of the new wonders of the world, this pyramid is an incredible feat of architectural precision. The guide will explain how the structure works as a giant calendar and astronomical tool, which is fascinating to hear firsthand. While you won’t have access to the interior, standing at its base, you’ll get a sense of the ingenuity of the Mayan builders.

Next, there’s a visit to Hotel Puerta Chichen for a buffet lunch. The food is regional, with a variety of Yucatecan dishes, salads, and desserts—all included. Reviewers mention the quality of the food and the hospitality of the staff, adding a relaxing break to your busy day.

The afternoon is dedicated to the archaeological sites—the Temple of a Thousand Columns, the Observatory, the Platform of Venus, and the Platforms of Eagles and Jaguars. These sites showcase the Mayans’ scientific and ceremonial prowess. Our source reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about the scientific and technological advancements of the civilization, making each site not just a photo stop but an informative experience.

The Gran Museo de Chichén Itzá

Next, you’ll explore the Gran Museo de Chichen Itza, which houses around 500 archaeological pieces. This museum is a highlight for those interested in the broader context of Mayan culture, especially since it features works painstakingly assembled over nearly a century. Visitors report that the museum is well-curated, with archaeologists and researchers involved in its collection, giving it an authentic and scholarly feel.

Returning to Cancun with Ease

After about 2 hours at the museum, the tour transitions back to Cancun. The train ride continues, and upon arrival, you’re driven back to your hotel. The entire experience wraps up roughly 8.5 hours after departure, making it a full but manageable day for most travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers mention guides who are well-versed in Mayan history and science, making the experience educational and engaging. They share interesting facts about structures like the pyramid of Kukulcán and the observatory, adding depth beyond standard tourist commentary.

Seamless Logistics: The combination of hotel pickup, train travel, and site visits is smooth. The train’s modern facilities make the journey comfortable, and the strategic timing allows visitors to beat crowds and enjoy the sites with more serenity.

Cultural and Modern Fusion: Visiting the New Great Museum offers a fresh perspective on Mayan artifacts, emphasizing ongoing discoveries and the importance of conservation efforts. Coupled with the ruins, it gives a comprehensive look at the civilization’s achievements and ongoing research.

Regional Gastronomy: The buffet lunch provides a taste of local Yucatecan flavors in a relaxed setting, which many reviews appreciate—adding flavor to the day beyond just sightseeing.

Price and Value Analysis

At $721.25 per person, this tour might seem steep at first glance, but considering the inclusion of train transportation, guided tours, museum access, and lunch, it offers a full-day, all-in-one experience. The price covers not just entry fees but also the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance, hence adding significant value.

However, it’s important to note that admission tickets to some sites, like El Castillo and other archaeological sites, are not included in the price. Travelers should budget for these additional expenses if they wish to access interior areas or special exhibitions.

From the reviews, the quality of the train and guides stands out as a notable highlight, bolstering the value proposition. Plus, the free cancellation policy adds flexibility, making it easier to plan without the fear of losing your investment if plans change.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book at least three days in advance to ensure all arrangements are set, especially the train tickets.
• Send a photo of your ID via WhatsApp after booking for the train ticket process—this adds an extra step but is straightforward.
• Prepare for walking—the site visits involve some amount of walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Bring cash or cards for optional site entrance fees or souvenirs.
• Be mindful of the weather; the Yucatán can be quite hot or rainy depending on the season, so pack sunscreen, water, and a hat.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Maya civilization, with the added bonus of a scenic train journey. It’s perfect for travelers who want a structured day that combines culture, modern comforts, and regional cuisine, all in one package. The guides’ expertise and the quality of the train make it stand out as an experience that’s both educational and enjoyable.

While some of the attractions require extra tickets, the overall itinerary provides a comprehensive understanding of the archaeological and cultural landscape of Yucatán. The flexibility, combined with the high praise from other travelers, suggests it’s a reliable choice for those looking to maximize their time and learn more about the fascinating Maya legacy.

If you’re keen on exploring Chichen Itza with a modern twist and a knowledgeable guide, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups available? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from your Cancun accommodation.

How long is the train ride? The train ride lasts approximately 2 hours from Cancun to Chichen Itza, offering a smooth and comfortable journey.

Do I need to buy separate tickets for the archaeological sites? Yes, some attractions like Kukulcán pyramid are not included in the tour price and must be purchased on arrival.

Is food included in the tour? Yes, a regional buffet lunch with salads and desserts is included at Hotel Puerta Chichen.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What is the tour’s overall duration? The entire experience takes about 8.5 hours, from hotel pickup to returning to your accommodation.

Whether you’re a history buff, a culture seeker, or simply eager to experience the Yucatán in comfort, this tour combines the best of both worlds—ancient wonders and modern travel—delivered seamlessly through expert guidance and scenic transportation.