How to Plan Your Chichen Itza Traditions Small Groups Incredible Cenote Lunch Drinks Valladolid Tour

If you’re looking for the ultimate Mexican experience, then a tour to Chichen Itza is a must-do. This small group tour from Merida takes in the most famous Mayan archaeological site in Mexico along with a ceote swim and a visit to the beautiful colonial city of Valladolid. Here is a step-by-step guide to plan your Chichen Itza tour experience.

Step 1: Book Your Tour Online

The first step in planning your Chichen Itza tour is to book it online. Click on the following link to book the tour: book the tour here. You can select either a small-group tour or a private tour upgrade. Choosing the small-group tour means you’ll be able to join up to 15 other people, but if you want a more private experience, choose the private tour upgrade.

Step 2: Confirm Your Tour Start Time and Pickup Details

Once you book the tour, you’ll receive a confirmation email from the local provider. Make sure to confirm the start time and pickup location before you leave for Mexico. The local provider will wait for you in front of the “Súper Akí Tulum.”

Step 3: Explore Chichen Itza and Learn About Mayan Culture

The tour begins with a visit to the magnificent Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, one of Mexico’s most celebrated archaeological sites. Explore the site with an expert guide who will show you around and provide commentary on the history and culture of the Mayans. You’ll have the chance to see famous landmarks such as the Temple of Kukulcan and the Great Ball Court.

Step 4: Take a Refreshing Dip at a Cenote

After exploring Chichen Itza, cool off with a swim in a cenote, a natural sinkhole filled with crystal clear water. Selva Maya cenote is an incredible underground cenote surrounded by lush jungle vegetation. You can jump off a diving board, swim, or just relax on the wooden sun deck and take in the beautiful surroundings.

Step 5: Enjoy Lunch and Drinks

The tour includes a buffet lunch, bottled water, soda/pop, and alcoholic beverages. You’ll enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine for lunch, including tacos, tamales, rice, beans, and fresh fruit. You can also enjoy a refreshing beer, tequila or cocktail to cool off from the heat.

Step 6: Visit the Picturesque City of Valladolid

The last stop on the tour is the colonial city of Valladolid, known for its beautiful churches, plazas, and colorful buildings. Take a stroll through the city’s narrow streets and discover its rich history and culture. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the beautiful San Bernardino Convent and learn about the Mayan history of the city.

Book Your Tour Now

Booking a tour to Chichen Itza with Viator is the perfect way to experience Mexico’s famous sites, cenotes, and cities. Follow these steps to plan your tour, confirm your start time, and enjoy an unforgettable day out in Mexico. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as it can get hot at the ruins. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

FAQ About Chichen Itza – The Ultimate Guide

Are you planning a visit to Chichen Itza? This Mayan archaeological site is a must-visit destination in Mexico. In this FAQ guide, we will answer your most frequently asked questions about Chichen Itza, including its history, transportation, entrance fees, tours, and much more.

1. What is Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza is an archaeological site located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It was once part of the Maya civilization and is now a popular tourist destination which receives over 1 million visitors each year. This site has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

2. What is the history of Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza was built by the Mayan civilization around 600 AD and was once a thriving city with a population of over 50,000 people. The city was a center of power, politics, and economy in the region. The settlement was eventually abandoned by the Mayans and rediscovered in the 19th century by explorers.

3. How do I get to Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza is located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. The nearest major city is Merida, and the closest international airport is Cancun. There are various ways to get to Chichen Itza, including renting a car, taking a bus, or joining a tour.

4. What are the entrance fees?

The entrance fee for Chichen Itza is $481 Mexican pesos for foreigners and $80 Mexican pesos for Mexicans. If you arrive after 4 pm, the entrance fee is reduced to $350 Mexican pesos. Children under the age of 13 can enter for free.

5. What should I wear when I visit Chichen Itza?

It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing, such as loose-fitting breathable clothes and comfortable shoes. Avoid wearing high heels or flip flops as the terrain is uneven and rocky. It is also essential to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle.

6. What is the best time of the year to visit Chichen Itza?

The best time to visit Chichen Itza is during the winter months (December to February) when the weather is cooler and less humid. The busiest months are March and April when the site is very crowded, and the temperatures are high.

7. Are there any guided tours of Chichen Itza?

Yes, there are many guided tours available. You can choose from group tours, private tours, or self-guided tours. Guided tours are highly recommended as they provide a wealth of information about the history and significance of the site.

8. What are the main attractions in Chichen Itza?

The main attractions in Chichen Itza include the iconic El Castillo (also known as the Temple of Kukulcan), the Great Ball Court, the Temple of Warriors, the Group of the Thousand Columns, and the Sacred Cenote.

9. Can I climb the pyramid at Chichen Itza?

No, climbing the pyramid, El Castillo, is forbidden since 2006 for safety reasons. However, you can walk around the base of the pyramid and admire the complex architecture and the intricate carvings on the walls.

10. Are there any special events or festivals held at Chichen Itza?

Yes, there are annual events and festivals held at Chichen Itza. The most popular festival is held during the spring equinox, where the sun aligns with the pyramid and creates a shadow on the stairs of the pyramid resembling a serpent descending. It is said to represent the descent of the god Kukulkan. In conclusion, Chichen Itza is a fascinating destination that is rich in history and culture. It provides an excellent opportunity for travelers to learn more about the Mayan civilization and experience the beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula. We hope this FAQ guide has provided you with useful information to plan your visit to Chichen Itza.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is one of the most popular archaeological sites in Mexico and a must-see for anyone who loves history and culture. It is located on the Yucatan Peninsula and features some of the most impressive Mayan ruins, including the famous El Castillo pyramid. If you’re planning a trip to Chichen Itza, here is a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist.

1. Early Arrival

Plan to arrive early at Chichen Itza to avoid the crowds and the heat. The site opens at 8:00 am and it is recommended to arrive as close to opening time as possible. This will give you the opportunity to explore the site before the crowds arrive and the sun becomes too hot. You can also take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures for a better experience.

2. El Castillo Pyramid

El Castillo pyramid is the most iconic monument of Chichen Itza and a must-see for all visitors. It is a four-sided pyramid with steps on each side, leading up to a temple at the top. The pyramid is over 30 meters high and has 365 steps, one for each day of the year. Visitors can climb up to the top to enjoy amazing views of the entire site.

3. Ball Court

The Ball Court is another popular site in Chichen Itza. It was used by the Mayans for a traditional ball game that was played with a rubber ball. The goal of the game was to get the ball through a stone ring attached to the wall of the court. The court is over 160 meters long and has high walls decorated with intricate carvings.

4. Temple of the Warriors

The Temple of the Warriors is a large complex that includes multiple columns, altars, and impressive sculptures. It was initially used for religious ceremonies but then served as a home for the priests and nobles. There is also a large statue of Chac Mool, a Mayan deity, in this area.

5. Cenote Sagrado

Cenote Sagrado is a natural sinkhole that was considered sacred by the Mayans. Visitors can swim or snorkel in the crystal clear waters and relax in a beautiful environment. The Cenote Sagrado is an ideal spot to cool off after a long day of exploring.

6. Observatorio

The Observatorio is a unique structure in Chichen Itza that was used for astronomical purposes. Its design is based on the planet Venus, and it was used to track the movements of this planet. Visitors can climb up to the top of the observatory to see the surrounding areas and appreciate the unique design of the structure.

7. Guided Tour

If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Chichen Itza, consider taking a guided tour. There are many licensed tour guides available who can provide you with detailed information about the site and its significance to Mayan culture. A tour guide can also ensure you do not miss any important areas or structures, even the hidden ones.

8. Marketplace

The Marketplace is a unique area in Chichen Itza where visitors can purchase souvenirs and local handicrafts. This is the perfect place to buy a unique gift for friends or family back home. Be sure to negotiate with the vendors for the best price while holding onto your purchases closely.

9. Traditional Food and Drink

If you’re a food lover, don’t forget to try some traditional Mexican food and drink while visiting Chichen Itza. You can try typical Mexican dishes, such as enchiladas, quesadillas, tamales, and tacos, which are all available in the restaurants around the site. You can also choose from a variety of refreshing drinks like Horchata, Jamaica, and Agua de Limon.

10. Sunset

Finally, plan to stay until sunset since it is a unique experience at Chichen Itza. As the sun sets, the light changes, and the structures become illuminated, creating a magical ambiance. You may want to be sure you stay till the final closing of the site to give yourselves ample time for watching the sunset and finish exploring the site while there may be fewer people.

Book Your Tour Now

Chichen Itza is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Mexico, and a must-visit for anyone who loves history and culture. Follow this guide, and you can experience the best that Chichen Itza has to offer. Remember to take plenty of water and sunscreen during your visit, and always leave the site and its structures untouched for the next visitors to see.