Chichen Itza needs no introduction (I hope!) This ancient Mayan city, once a thriving civilization, is arguably the attraction everyone knows about, even if they haven’t heard anything else about Mexico. And its fame is well deserved!
The site is not only the most popular Mayan ruins in Mexico but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the most iconic photo backdrop! If you don’t believe me, scroll down to the pictures 😉
One of the reasons it’s become world-famous is because of its pyramid El Castillo, where every equinox the shadow of a feathered serpent slithers down the stairs, attracting visitors from all over and blowing a few minds, I’m sure. And there are so many other incredible fun facts about Chichen Itza to discover!
But you’ll learn them soon enough when you visit, so let’s not get ahead of ourselves. In this post, I selected the best Chichen Itza tours from Tulum, so you can plan the most memorable, hassle-free experience to the iconic ruins.
Chichen Itza is located 94 miles (151 km) from Tulum, and while it’s an easy drive, the best way to visit, in my opinion, is with a tour. You’ll have all transfers covered, entrance fees included in most cases, and some excursions will even offer extra trips to nearby attractions, like cenotes or Valladolid, and a tasty Yucatecan lunch. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!
➥ Why can you trust my suggestions? I spent 6 months traveling around Mexico, and I’ve visited Chichen Itza twice, which is double the time as most visitors!
Besides, I’ve been in the travel industry for well over a decade, curating travel guides and tours all over the world, so you could say I’m pretty much an expert at identifying the most extraordinary activities. I used my special talent to hand-pick these excursions, ensuring they’re high-quality and led by experts.
I usually use and recommend Viator for booking tours around the world. I especially like its cancellation policy. If your plans change for any reason, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are you in a rush? These are the ultimate tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid |
| PRIVATE TOUR | VIP Private Chichen Itza Tour |
| CHICHEN ITZA AND COBA | Chichen Itza & Coba Tour with Cenote |
OUR PICK: The BEST Chichen Itza Tour from Tulum
The Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Small Group Day Trip offers a fantastic day out. This is the same program of the tour I joined, which unfortunately isn’t available anymore.
You’ll depart Tulum early in the morning, and tour the ruins of Chichen Itza with a professional guide.
Marvel at the intricate carvings on the pyramids, and learn about the Mayan history and traditions. It’s truly a fascinating location to explore, and its main pyramid is impressive!
Your trip continues in Valladolid, a gorgeous colonial city. You’ll have time to wander around its charming streets and admire its striking architecture. You’ll also get to enjoy a traditional lunch in a local restaurant.
Finally, relax by cooling off in Cenote Xux Ha, a spectacular cave cenote. This is not as famous as other ones in the area, but it’s equally stunning. You might very well have it all for yourself and your group.
➤ Why is this the best tour? With over 1500 5-star reviews, this is an all-inclusive excursion that includes all entrance fees to the attractions (most tours don’t), as well as lunch and a guided tour around the ruins. I believe this is the best way to explore them!
But besides a visit to Chichen Itza, this tour includes two other Yucatan gems in the itinerary: a cenote, and Valladolid. It’s the most comprehensive option available from Tulum. Plus, it’s a small-group tour with maximum 10 travelers (so much better than a huge bus tour).
It’s not just me saying it! Read what the reviews say:
”I highly recommend the small group experience. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about teaching us all about the history of Chihen Itza, the Mayan culture and the Yucatan peninsula. The town was lovely and the restaurant we ate at was the best food of our entire trip. The Cenote we swam in was enormous and very magical to witness. This trio is 100% worth it.”
Stephanie_L – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, a guide, snacks, drinks, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other GREAT Tours to Chichen Itza from Tulum
▶️ The Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour is a 12-hour expedition. You’ll first head to the Mayan ruins, where your guide will introduce you to their history and archaeology.
The next stop is a stunning cenote, where you’ll get to swim and relax in the refreshing waters, followed by a visit to Valladolid. The colonial city oozes charm, and after a bit of exploring you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch buffet.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, cenote entry, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Early Morning Chichen Itza Tour: Cenote and Tequila Tasting is a packed, cultural day. You’ll leave first thing in the morning, beating the crowds and the heat to explore Chichen Itza more comfortably.
Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the history of the ruins and the Mayans’ traditions. Then, you’ll have an hour to explore the site on your own before heading to a cenote. Cool off with a swim in its fresh waters, and relish a delectable buffet lunch.
Finally, wander around the streets of Valladolid before making the journey back to Tulum.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, cenote entry, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Best Chichen Itza Tour from Tulum on a Budget
A great tour for travelers on a budget is this Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Tequila and Lunch. It’s a full-day tour that allows you to explore the most famous Mayan ruins with a local guide.
After your Chichen Itza visit, you’ll head to a nearby cenote, and then explore the town of Valladolid. A delicious Mexican lunch and tequila tasting are included in the trip. You’ll need to refuel from all those activities, after all!
This tour includes: Transfers from a meeting point, a guide, cenote entry, a buffet lunch, and tequila tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Chichen Itza Private Tours from Tulum
If you would rather enjoy the benefits of a private tour to Chichen Itza, check out the following options.
▶️ The Skip the Line Chichen Itza Private Tour, Sacred Cenote & Lunch offers a full-day excursion for 15 people. After bypassing the lines, you’ll learn all about the archaeological site and the civilization that inhabited it with an expert guide.
Enjoy a refreshing swim in a sacred cenote afterward, and finish the day with a tour around Valladolid and lunch at a local eatery.
This tour includes: Private transfers, entrance fees, a guide, snacks, lunch, and alcoholic drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Looking for something different? Check out this VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour. It accommodates groups of up to 15 people and offers a flexible itinerary.
You’ll visit Chichen Itza with a professional guide, and then swim in the refreshing waters of Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman. When you’re ready, head to a local restaurant in Valladolid where you’ll enjoy lunch à la carte.
If desired, spend some time exploring the colonial town before returning to your hotel.
This tour includes: Hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, a tour guide, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Chichen Itza + Coba Tours from Tulum
If you want to take your archaeological visits to another level, check out the following tours. They include access to the Coba Ruins, ensuring an incredibly cultural day.
▶️ The Chichen Itza & Coba Tour combines a visit to two Mayan cities and a sacred sinkhole. After exploring the popular ruins of Chichen Itza, you’ll make your way to Cenote Saamal to cool off for a bit.
Recharge your energies with lunch, and then head to the Coba Mayan Ruins. You’ll get to climb its main pyramid, and marvel at the dense jungle that completely surrounds the structures (and hides the ones that remain uncovered!)
The tour departs from Playa del Carmen but includes pick-up from selected hotels in Tulum.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, bottled water, breakfast, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ If you’d rather experience the attractions with your own group, choose the VIP Chichen Itza & Coba Private Tour. You’ll be taken to Chichen Itza early in the morning, and enjoy an informative tour around it.
Then, wander at your leisure before heading to Valladolid for a delicious lunch stop. Cool off in Chukum cenote, where you’ll have time to snorkel, and finally visit the Coba ruins, getting to cycle around the massive site.
This tour includes: Private transfers, entrance fees, lunch, use of bicycle, and snorkel gear. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
