Chichén Itzá archaeological site, cenote and Izamal
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Chichén Itzá archaeological site, cenote and Izamal

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(1 reviews)
10h
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About this experience

Tour in shared service. Duration of tour 11 hr.
The operator will pick you up at your hotel at 7:00 am in downtown Merida.
First visit the archaeological site of Chichen Itza.
Admire the Kukulkan Castle, where the equinox is presented and marvels you every year with its spectacular snake that descends in the form of a shadow; also, visit the Sacred Cenote and the Ball Game.
We will also visit the Ik Kil cenote located next to the archaeological site of Chichen Itza.
Afterwards we will go to the magical town of Izamal where we will have time to get to know this city painted yellow and white by the will of authorities and neighbors, it maintains an image of elegance and charm of past times that distinguish and define it with a stately air in the regional context.
At the end we return to the city of Merida.

Available options

Chichén Itzá archaeological site, cenote and Izamal

Pickup included

What's included

Travel insurance
Lunch
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Etymologically, Chi-ch'en Itzá means "the city on the edge of the Well of the Itzáes". It is located 115 kilometers from the city of Mérida, Yucatán, taking highway No. 180 towards the town of Piste, which is 2 kilometers the archaeological site. The Chichen Itza archaeological site is famous worldwide for the play of light and shadow that occurs at each equinox on the steps of the pyramidal base known as El Castillo. In this, the sun, as it rises above the horizon, illuminates the western alfarda of the plinth, creating triangles of light and shadow that seem to descend to the serpent's head in the parade of the alfarda.

2
Stop 2

The Kukulkan temple, known as El Castillo, is a pre-Hispanic building located in the Yucatan peninsula. The current temple was built in the 12th century AD. C. by the Itza Mayans in their capital, the city of Chichén Itzá, originally founded in the sixth century AD. C. Its design has a pyramidal geometric shape; It has nine levels or plinths, four main facades, each with a central staircase, and an upper platform, topped by a temple. In this construction, the Mayan entity Kukulkan (feathered serpent) was worshiped. On the other hand, it also has symbolisms that allude to the most important numbers used in the agricultural solar calendar, the Tzolkin calendar (sacred calendar) and the calendar wheel. The alignment of the pyramid construction allows you to observe various phenomena of light and shadow, which occur in your own body during the equinoxes and solstices each year.

3
Stop 3

The Sacred Cenote is an open type cenote that appears as a circular depression filled with water,
The cenote is 60 m in diameter and the mirror of water is 22 m away; The maximum depth of the cenote is 13.50 meters. A large number of archaeological objects and human remains have been recovered in it. The use of the cenote for rituals and sacrifice

4

Izamal is a beautiful colonial city founded in the mid-sixteenth century on the remains of an ancient Mayan city.
Today, all painted yellow and white by the will of authorities and neighbors, it maintains an image of elegance and charm of bygone times that distinguish and define it with a stately air in the regional context. In its neatly stamped streets, horse-drawn carriages take visitors on a charming tour of its squares and parks and its historic suburbs. At night, the city offers a singular experience, contemplating a starry celestial vault cut out by the profiles of its pyramids, temples and colonial mansions; shadows that seem to awaken from a centuries-old dream.

What's not included

Beverages
Entrance to Chichen Itza archaeological site
Entrance to Cenote
Entrance to archaeological sites in Izamal

Available languages

Guide guide
ES

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan

Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan offer a rich blend of ancient Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and vibrant colonial cities. This region is a paradise for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation in tropical settings.

Top Attractions

Chichen Itza

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city features the iconic El Castillo pyramid.

Historical Half to full day Moderate (around 500 MXN for entrance)

Uxmal

A stunning example of Puuc architecture, Uxmal is another significant Mayan archaeological site.

Historical Half day Moderate (around 350 MXN for entrance)

Celestún

A beautiful coastal village known for its flamingo-filled lagoons and pristine beaches.

Nature Full day Budget to moderate (boat tours around 500 MXN)

Riviera Maya

A stretch of Caribbean coastline known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Beach Overnight or multi-day trip Variable (budget to luxury options available)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and sour orange, wrapped in banana leaves.

Main Dish Contains pork

Panuchos

Fried tortillas filled with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and avocado.

Appetizer Vegetarian options available

Sopa de Lima

A tangy and comforting soup made with lime, chicken, and tortilla strips.

Soup Contains chicken

Popular Activities

Cenote diving Jungle trekking Zip-lining Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga retreats Visiting archaeological sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring archaeological sites.

22-28°C 72-82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Merida and the Yucatan are generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates compared to other parts of Mexico. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
  • • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air
  • Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport • 10 km from Merida city center
  • Cancún International Airport • 300 km from Merida
By bus

Terminal de Autobuses de Mérida

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and efficient, combís are small vans that follow fixed routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Histórico Colonia García Ginerés Altabrisa

Day trips

Valladolid
150 km from Merida • Full day

A charming colonial town with a rich history and beautiful architecture.

Izamal
70 km from Merida • Half day

A picturesque town known for its yellow buildings and significant archaeological sites.

Cenotes Route
Varies, typically 30-60 km from Merida • Full day

A series of stunning cenotes (natural sinkholes) perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Festivals

Festival de la Ciudad • January Hanal Pixán • November 1-2

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
  • Visit cenotes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures
  • Explore the region's lesser-known archaeological sites for a more authentic experience
  • Try local street food for an affordable and delicious culinary adventure
  • Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season (November to April)
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-80
1
Childs
Age 3-17
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
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