Chichen, Cenote Chichikan & Valladolidbal Tour From Tulum

If you’re heading to the Yucatán Peninsula and want an experience that combines ancient ruins, refreshing swimming spots, and charming colonial towns, this full-day tour from Tulum might be just what you need. It’s designed for those who love learning about history but also crave a splash of nature and local flavor—all in one manageable day.

What we love about this tour is its balanced itinerary—you get a guided tour of Chichen Itza with a knowledgeable guide, plus plenty of free time to explore at your own pace. The inclusion of a cenote swim adds a memorable element of cool relaxation, while the visit to Valladolid offers a glimpse into traditional Yucatán life.

One thing to consider is the long day’s duration—11 to 12 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full schedule and want to see a lot without rushing. This tour is perfect for history buffs, families, and first-time visitors eager to experience key highlights of the region without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips.

Key Points

Balanced mix of guided and free time lets travelers absorb history and explore at their own pace.
Guaranteed entry to Chichen Itza with a certified guide ensures an informative experience.
Includes a refreshing cenote swim—a must-do activity in the Yucatán.
Affordable price point at $50 per person, considering transport, guides, and entrance fees.
Suitable for most travelers, including those using some mobility aids with assistance.
Visit to a colonial town adds a cultural touch to the day’s adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Chichen Itza – The Majestic Ruins

Our day begins early—pick-up is at 8:30 am from Tulum’s Super Aki. The highlight of the trip, of course, is the visit to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. With a certified guide, you’ll walk through the sprawling site and hear stories about the pyramid, the ball courts, and the observatory, bringing the stones and structures to life.

The tour provides about two hours at the archaeological site, which is enough time to see the main structures and get some decent photos. The tour includes admission with a bottle of water, helping you stay comfortable as you explore the sun-drenched ruins.

A common comment from travelers is the quality of the guide’s storytelling: “Our guide really brought the site to life, sharing stories I’d never read in a book.” Since the site can get crowded, having a guide helps you focus on the most significant parts without feeling overwhelmed.

Stop in Kaua for Lunch

Next, the tour takes you to the “Real Mayab” restaurant in Kaua, a small town in Yucatán. Here, you’ll enjoy a buffet of traditional regional dishes—a great way to fuel up for the rest of the day. The meal is included in the price, providing good value, especially considering the high quality and regional authenticity.

This stop is about an hour long and offers a chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers while tasting local flavors. It’s a reminder that part of the experience is about soaking in the local culture, not just ticking off sights.

Cenote Chichikan – Natural Refreshment

After lunch, the adventure continues with a dip in Cenote Chichikan, a beautiful open cenote surrounded by lush vegetation and natural stone walls. The cenote features a gentle waterfall—a perfect spot to cool off after a morning of exploring.

Admission is included, and you’ll have about an hour here. Travelers frequently mention how stunning the views are: “The scenery was breathtaking, and the water was so clear I could see straight down.” The cenote’s natural beauty and refreshing waters make it a highlight, especially on a hot day.

While the visit is subject to availability (sometimes only one cenote is visited), the experience remains a refreshing break from the heat and the crowds.

Valladolid – Colonial Charm

The final stop is the colorful colonial town of Valladolid, where you’ll have about 30 minutes of free time. The town’s San Servacio Church and the vibrant main square are worth a quick visit for anyone interested in colonial architecture and local life.

Many travelers enjoy wandering the streets, browsing shops for handmade crafts, or simply relaxing in the town square. It’s a peaceful, authentic way to end the day and reflect on what you’ve seen.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price is $50 per person, which covers most of the essentials: pick-up in Tulum, guided tour of Chichen Itza, access to the cenote, regional buffet lunch, and a delightful boxed lunch. It’s a good value considering the transportation, guide, and entrance fees.

However, there are additional government fees—$40 for the archaeological site and $35 for the cenote—that you’ll need to pay on the day. This is typical for tours in the region but worth noting to budget accordingly.

The tour also emphasizes environmental consciousness: use biodegradable sunscreen and bring essentials like sunglasses, insect repellent, swimsuits, towels, and extra clothes.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel by bus, which is comfortable and includes a bathroom, although only the front toilet can be used (the second is vented and cannot be used). Stops are made at the visited sites for bathroom breaks, so plan accordingly.

Group sizes are capped at 65 travelers, which helps keep things manageable but still lively. The tour is designed to be inclusive, mentioning that most travelers can participate, including some with foldable manual wheelchairs with assistance.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour caters well to those who want a comprehensive day of exploration without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s suited for families, first-timers, and culture lovers. The guide’s storytelling can really enhance the visit, especially for those new to Maya history.

It’s also a good choice for travelers seeking an active but not overly strenuous day, as most activities involve walking and swimming. The optional swimming at the cenote adds a fun, memorable element, but is not mandatory.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This is a solid, well-rounded day trip that balances guided education with free exploration, making it ideal for travelers who want to see key highlights efficiently. If you’re interested in Mayan history, stunning natural scenery, and authentic local towns, this tour delivers.

The price is reasonable, especially given the included meals and access fees, and the logistics are well-organized. Just be prepared for a long day, and bring snacks or extra water if needed.

This tour offers good value and a chance to experience the best of Yucatán’s cultural and natural treasures in one day. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re eager to check off significant sights, it’s a journey worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:30 am from Súper Akí in Tulum, so plan your morning accordingly to arrive on time.

Is the price inclusive of all fees?
No, the $50 covers transportation, guide, and some site access, but government fees ($40 for Chichen Itza and $35 for the cenote) are paid separately on-site.

Can I participate if I use a wheelchair?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with foldable manual wheelchairs, as long as assistance is provided for stairs and uneven surfaces. Motorized wheelchairs or scooters are not accommodated.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes and shoes, swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, sunscreen (biodegradable), sunglasses, and insect repellent. Snacks are recommended since the tour is long.

Are there bathroom facilities on the bus?
Yes, but only the front toilet is usable; the second is vented and cannot be used. Stops are made at each visited site for bathroom breaks.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours. Expect a full day of sightseeing, so plan accordingly.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This full-day tour from Tulum balances adventure, education, and relaxation, giving you a meaningful taste of the Yucatán’s treasures. Whether you’re after history, scenery, or authentic town experiences, it’s a good option to consider.