Deluxe adventure! 2 Sacred Cenotes, Chichen Itza and Valladolid from Tulum City

Introduction

If you’re planning a day trip from Tulum to explore some of the most iconic sites in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, this Deluxe adventure offers a well-rounded experience. It promises to take you through history, nature, and local culture—everything you need for a memorable day.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the awe of Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, with the soothing beauty of two sacred cenotes and a stroll through the charming town of Valladolid. The inclusion of a regional buffet and opportunities for swimming in crystal-clear waters make it feel like a true all-in-one experience.

A possible consideration? The tour packs a lot into one day, which might mean some hurried moments at each stop, especially Valladolid. It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of planning each part independently.

This tour is ideal for those who want to maximize their time and see a variety of highlights, especially if you’re interested in seeing both ancient ruins and natural wonders in one go.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Chichen Itza, two cenotes, and Valladolid.
• Guided tour with knowledgeable and engaging guides.
• Value for price includes transportation, entrance fees, buffet, and drinks.
• Long day, approximately 13 hours, so good for active travelers.
• Swim in crystal waters at cenotes Ikkil and Hubiku for a refreshing break.
• Limited time at Valladolid, so expect a quick visit.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins early at 7:00 am from the Super Aki Market in Tulum. Transportation is provided, with round-trip transfers in a comfortable vehicle. This setup is ideal for travelers who prefer to avoid the hassle of arranging their own transport, and the fact that it departs from a central location makes it accessible.

Given the 13-hour duration, expect a fair amount of time on the road, though the bus journey is generally smooth and includes drinks, making the long hours more comfortable. It’s worth noting that the tour caps at around 50 participants, so it’s a relatively intimate group, but still large enough to feel social.

Chichen Itza: The Star of the Day

This UNESCO World Heritage site is the main highlight. You’ll spend about 2 hours exploring with a guide who will share insights into its monumental architecture, like the Temple of Kukulcan, the Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors. The Sacred Cenote is also part of the visit, allowing you to understand its spiritual significance.

From reviews, we see that guides make a real difference; one traveler praised Hector, aka Foca, for being “so fun and hilarious.” But if you’re a history buff, keep in mind that the tour’s time might feel a bit rushed, and a longer, more detailed visit would require a private tour costing over $600.

Sacred Cenotes: Ikkil and Hubiku

The inclusion of two cenotes offers a chance to cool off and enjoy nature. Cenote Ikkil is praised for its stunning crystal waters and beautiful setting, while Cenote Hubiku is described as mystical, with sunlight streaming through its depths—perfect for photos and relaxing swims.

The reviews highlight these as favorites, with visitors noting how beautiful and refreshing they are after a hot morning at Chichen Itza. You’ll have about an hour at each cenote, enough time for a quick swim or to just soak in the surroundings.

Regional Buffet and Local Flavors

A buffet of regional dishes is included, which is a welcome touch after hours of exploring. Travelers mention that the food is delicious, providing a genuine taste of local cuisine. The tour also includes a box lunch—a sandwich and juice—convenient for the busy schedule.

While drinks are available on the bus, beverages at the cenotes or restaurant are not included in the price, so you might want to bring your own water or additional snacks.

Valladolid: The Final Stop

The last stop is the historic town of Valladolid. You’ll have around 20-30 minutes to walk around, buy some souvenirs, and enjoy the town’s charming streets. Reviewers note that this quick visit doesn’t allow for a deep exploration but still offers a taste of local architecture and street food.

One reviewer observed that “you only see a little” of Valladolid, but appreciated the opportunity to get a quick feel for this “magic town.” If you’re into exploring towns more thoroughly, you might find this stop a bit brief.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

Cost and Value

At $121 per person, this tour covers a lot: guided visits, entrance fees, transportation, two cenote swims, and a regional buffet. Compared to private tours, which can cost over $600, this offers significant value for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without breaking the bank.

However, the tour does add a $15 USD preservation tax for adults and $10 for children, which is paid onsite. It’s something to budget for in advance.

Timing and Pacing

Remember, this is a long day—about 13 hours. The start at 7:00 am means an early wake-up, but it also maximizes your time at each site. Be prepared for a full day of walking, standing, and possibly hot weather, especially at Chichen Itza.

What to Bring

Travelers are advised to bring swimsuits, towels, comfortable clothes, shoes, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent. The tour’s emphasis on eco-friendly products is a plus. If you want to enjoy the cenotes fully, packing a dry change of clothes is a good idea.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 50 travelers, the group is manageable, and guides can offer a more personal experience. The reviews suggest that guides like Hector add humor and enthusiasm, making the day more enjoyable.

What We Think: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Well-organized, with transportation and entrance fees covered
– The combination of history, nature, and culture is ideal for first-timers
– The cenote swims provide a refreshing break
– Guides are generally knowledgeable and engaging
– The tour offers good value, especially for those wanting a hassle-free day

Cons:
– The schedule is tight; limited time at Valladolid
– Some travelers might prefer more in-depth exploration of each site
– The day can feel rushed, especially on hot days
– Not suitable for those seeking a very relaxed or private experience

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for travelers who want a rundown of the Yucatán’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It suits those who enjoy guided tours, historical sites, and outdoor swimming. If you’re on a budget but still want to see the major attractions, this offers good value.

However, if you prefer more time at each spot or are interested in detailed historical narratives, a private or longer tour might be better. For families, the mix of walking, swimming, and sightseeing makes it a solid choice, but keep in mind the long hours.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid, well-rounded day of exploring Mexico’s cultural and natural treasures. With knowledgeable guides and the chance to swim in cenotes, it’s a good pick for those who want to see a lot without the complexity of arranging logistics themselves.

The inclusion of Chichen Itza, two cenotes, and Valladolid in one trip means you’ll walk away with a broad understanding of the region’s history, geology, and local life. While the pace might be a bit brisk, the value and variety make it a worthwhile adventure for first-time visitors.

If you’re looking for an active, engaging day that hits the main sights and offers some relaxing swims, this tour ticks many boxes. Just pack your sense of adventure—and plenty of water!

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Súper Akí Tulum is provided, making it easy to get to and from the sites without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 13 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning to the meeting point later in the evening.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour includes entrance tickets to Chichen Itza, Cenote Hubiku, and Ikkil, as well as the guided tour of the ruins.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent. Snacks and drinks are available on the bus, but extra water is recommended.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour caps at about 50 travelers, offering a somewhat intimate group experience.

Can kids join?
Yes, children are welcome, but be mindful of the long day and outdoor elements like heat and swimming.

What is the value of the tour?
For $121, you get transportation, guided visits, entrance fees, two cenote swims, and a regional buffet—making it a good deal for a full day of exploration.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While not specified, the tour requires good weather; check local conditions, as high season or rainy periods could affect your experience.

To sum it up, this tour is a strong choice for travelers eager to see the highlights of the Yucatán in one day—balancing history, nature, and culture. It’s especially suitable for those who want a guided, hassle-free experience with opportunities to cool off in stunning cenotes and sample regional cuisine. Just remember, it’s a long, active day—so come prepared and ready for adventure.