Chichén Itzá is one of Mexico’s most famous Mayan ruins, located in the Yucatán Peninsula. Known for its striking pyramid, El Castillo, and deep historical significance, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit for history lovers, cultural explorers, and anyone eager to experience an iconic landmark. The tour wasn’t direct to and from the site however. Like many tour buses do, we made a stop at Ik-Kil Cenote, Kaua Village, and Valladolid as well. The addition of these stops may change your mind about choosing a bus tour. Here’s what you need to know before you visit Chichén Itzá.
What to Know About Booking a Tour
We booked a Chichén Itzá tour through the hotel, Live Aqua, for $120, which included transportation, an upgraded experience, and some extras. While the convenience was great, not every upgrade was worth the cost. The day started early with a simple breakfast of a packaged sandwich, a granola bar, and a sugary juice drink. While it was nice to have something on hand, I wouldn’t recommend paying extra for it if given the choice. The package also included a beer at lunch and another for the bus ride back—small perks that were a nice touch.
What to Know About Cenote Ik-Kil: A Refreshing Stop
One of the highlights of the trip was Cenote Ik-Kil, a beautiful, deep sinkhole perfect for swimming. We had just enough time to change, put on the mandatory life vest, and take a dip in the cool water. The facilities were clean and well-maintained, with changing rooms, lockers, and a small restaurant. Though the stop was brief, it was a refreshing break before continuing the tour.
What to Know About Kaua: A Tourist-Oriented “Village”
Our next stop was Kaua, which was presented as a typical Mayan village but felt more like a curated tourist experience. While some parts were interesting—such as the tortilla-making demonstration, Mayan artisans at work, and a blessing from a shaman—it became clear that this was more of a performance than a genuine glimpse into daily life. A buffet lunch was included, featuring live performers and after eating, we were directed into a shop where we could only enter with our guide. Security was present, making the experience feel more like a sales pitch than an authentic cultural stop. If you plan to visit, bring cash for tipping, as it’s expected at multiple points.
What to Know About Valladolid: A Charming and Authentic Stop
The final stop before returning to the resort was Valladolid, a picturesque colonial town with a beautiful central plaza. This was the most authentic experience of the day, and we sat on a bench and watched some street performers while we enjoyed a chocobanana and churros. It was a great place to take a break and soak in the surroundings before heading back and we would have even liked a bit more time to explore. Check out this Lonely Planet article to learn more about this Pueblo Mágico!
Visiting Chichén Itzá: Why a Tour Bus is Worth It
Arriving at Chichén Itzá, I was relieved to be on a tour bus rather than navigating the parking area, which seemed confusing. The entrance was lined with vendors selling souvenirs, and while haggling is encouraged, it can feel overwhelming. However, this is one of the best places to find affordable souvenirs, often at half the price compared to resort gift shops. That is perhaps one of the most important things to know before you visit Chichén Itzá. Our tour guide led us through the site, sharing insights about the Mayan ball court, the pyramid’s precise astronomical design, and the secrets hidden within El Castillo. Climbing is no longer allowed, but standing before the pyramid is an awe-inspiring experience.The weather was mild during my visit, with brief rain showers that didn’t disrupt our plans. However, during the hotter months, the Yucatán heat can be intense, so bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat is essential.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Visiting Chichén Itzá?
Absolutely! While some aspects of the tour were more commercialized than I expected, the overall experience of visiting Chichén Itzá was incredible. If I were to go again, I might opt for a smaller group or private tour for a more personalized experience, but I still recommend booking a tour rather than going independently. Despite the crowds, vendors, and tourist-focused stops, Chichén Itzá remains one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world, and it was a highlight of my trip. If you’re visiting the Yucatán Peninsula, it’s well worth adding to your itinerary.
Planning Your Visit: Tips & Essential Info
Best Time to Visit Chichén Itzá
- November to February: Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds.
- Spring Equinox (March 20-21): The famous serpent shadow appears on El Castillo, but expect heavy crowds. I visited during this event once, and it was more festive, but much more crowded as well.
- Avoid Summer (May-August): Heat and humidity can be overwhelming.
Getting to Chichén Itzá
- From Cancún or Playa del Carmen: 2.5-3 hours by car or bus.
- From Mérida: About 1.5 hours by car or ADO bus (~$10 USD one-way).
- Guided tours: Many hotels and agencies offer full-day trips, which include transportation and skip-the-line entry.
Entrance Fees, Hours, & Other Info: What to know before you visit Chichén Itzá
- Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily.
- Entry fee: 533 MXN (~$30 USD) for foreign visitors, often included in tour packages.
- Parking: Can be chaotic—taking a tour bus or hiring a private driver is recommended.
- Vendors: Numerous stalls selling souvenirs at bargain prices if you haggle. I don’t like haggling personally, but it seemed expected and I was able to get some pretty decent prices on a t-shirt and other souvenirs.
- Facilities: Restrooms and food vendors are available near the entrance.
What you Need to Know About Other Tour Stops
Cenote Ik-Kil
- Included: Part of most tour packages. Efficiently run and has what you need.
- Amenities: Lockers, changing rooms, and required life vest rental.
- Duration: 30-45 minutes for a quick, refreshing swim.
- Cost: ~$6 USD for independent visitors.
Kaua (Tourist Village)
- Description: A tourist-oriented stop rather than a genuine village experience.
- Activities: Tortilla-making, artisan demonstrations, Mayan blessing ritual.
- Considerations: Frequent tipping requests, higher-priced souvenirs.
Valladolid
- Authenticity: A real colonial town with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Best for: Enjoying local snacks like churros and ice cream.
- Duration: ~30-minute stop, but a nice cultural contrast to the rest of the tour.
Final Travel Tips to know before you visit Chichén Itzá
- Pack: Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, hat, change of clothes and cash for tips.
- Expect crowds: Arriving early can improve your experience and allow for a more relaxing pace.
- Budget: Tours range from $60-$200 on Viator. Independent travelers should plan for transportation, entrance fees, meals, and souvenirs ($60-$100 USD per person).
Even though a visit to this New Seven Wonders of the World takes a full day, it’s an experience worth having. The pyramid, rich history, and cultural significance make Chichén Itzá a must-see destination for any traveler exploring the Yucatán Peninsula. If you visit during the warmer months, a stop at Ik-Kil or another cenote will be a welcome way to cool off. Before booking your tour, consider if the additional stops and full day will enhance your experience. If not, consider taking the bus or renting a car. However you choose to get there, the experience will be worth it!
