Private Tulum Day Trip to Mayan Temples & Ruins

Chichen Itza, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan , Mexico

Private Tulum Day Trip to Mayan Temples & Ruins

Active

10h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Yucatán on a Private Day Trip from Tulum with comfortable private transportation and flexible timing. This journey combines the grandeur of ancient Maya sites with the charm of colonial Mexico all at your own pace and with a dedicated driver.
Your adventure begins with a visit to Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore its towering pyramids, sacred cenote, and the iconic Temple of Kukulcán as you uncover the mysteries of Maya civilization during a two-hour guided experience.
Continue to Ek Balam Village, a hidden archaeological treasure surrounded by jungle. Here, you’ll have time to climb the Acropolis, admire detailed stone carvings, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this lesser-known Maya site.Your final stop is Valladolid, a colorful colonial town where pastel facades, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks like San Gervasio Cathedral offer the perfect place to relax and enjoy local Yucatecan flavors before returning comfortably to Tulum.

Available options

Tulum to Mayan Temples & Ruin

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Entrance fee

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

You'll be welcomed in the van with drinks and snacks to keep you comfy along the way!

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Chichén Itzá is a complex of Mayan ruins on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. A massive step pyramid, known as El Castillo or Temple of Kukulcan, dominates the ancient city, which thrived from around 600 A.D. to the 1200s. Graphic stone carvings survive at structures like the ball court, Temple of the Warriors and the Wall of the Skulls.

Ekʼ Balam is a Yucatec-Maya archaeological site within the municipality of Temozón, Yucatán, Mexico. It lies in the Northern Maya lowlands, 25 kilometres (16 mi) north of Valladolid and 56 kilometres (35 mi) northeast of Chichen Itza. From the Preclassic until the Postclassic period, it was the seat of a Mayan kingdom. The site is noted for the preservation of the plaster on the tomb of Ukit Kan Lek Tokʼ, a king buried in the side of the largest pyramid.

Valladolid is a charming city on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, known for its pastel-colored colonial architecture and authentic local atmosphere. Highlights include the 16th-century Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, featuring an ornate wooden altarpiece, and the San Gervasio Cathedral, a beautiful baroque-style church overlooking the main square. Visitors can also explore Casa de los Venados, a private home-turned-museum that showcases an impressive collection of Mexican folk art and handcrafted furnishings

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT ES

Important information

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Chichen Itza, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan

Chichen Itza, Riviera Maya, and the Yucatan offer a captivating blend of ancient Mayan history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. This region is home to some of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, alongside crystal-clear cenotes and lush jungles.

Top Attractions

Chichen Itza

One of the most famous Mayan ruins in the world, Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring iconic structures like El Castillo (the Great Pyramid) and the Great Ball Court.

Historical Half to full day Moderate ($25-$50 including guides and transportation)

Tulum

A stunning coastal Mayan ruin perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Tulum offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Historical Half to full day Moderate ($20-$40 including transportation)

Cenote Ik Kil

A breathtaking natural sinkhole near Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil offers crystal-clear waters for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Nature 1-2 hours Budget ($5-$10)

Riviera Maya

A stretch of Caribbean coastline known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife, the Riviera Maya is a popular destination for relaxation and adventure.

Beach Multiple days Varies (budget to luxury options available)

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected natural area, the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is home to diverse wildlife, mangrove forests, and pristine lagoons.

Nature Full day Moderate ($50-$100 for guided tours)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and citrus, traditionally cooked in an underground pit.

Main Dish Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Panuchos

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

Appetizer Contains chicken, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Sopa de Lima

A tangy and refreshing soup made with lime, chicken broth, and shredded chicken, often served with tortilla strips and avocado.

Soup Contains chicken, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pescado a la Tikin Xic

Grilled fish marinated in achiote and citrus, wrapped in banana leaves.

Main Dish Contains fish, suitable for vegetarians if fish is omitted, but not for vegans.

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Cenote exploration Zip-lining ATV tours Beach lounging Yoga and wellness retreats Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. It's the most popular time to visit, with vibrant festivals and ideal conditions for exploring ruins and beaches.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English, Mayan languages
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

The Yucatan is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation. Exercise caution when using ATMs, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or isolated areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs

Getting there

By air

Cancún International Airport • 200 km from Chichen Itza
Mérida Rejón International Airport • 60 km from Chichen Itza

By bus

Cancún Bus Station, Mérida Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

ADO buses are comfortable, reliable, and affordable, with frequent services between major towns and cities.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Playa del Carmen Tulum Mérida Valladolid

Day trips

Isla Mujeres

13 km from Cancún • Full day

A small island known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

Cozumel

64 km from Playa del Carmen • Full day

A popular island destination known for its world-class scuba diving and snorkeling.

Rio Lagartos

150 km from Mérida • Full day

A small coastal town known for its pink lakes, flamingos, and traditional fishing villages.

Festivals

Carnaval de Mérida • February or March (dates vary) Festival de las Calaveras • October Cervantino de Yucatán • October

Pro tips

Visit Chichen Itza early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
Explore the region's cenotes for a unique and refreshing swimming experience
Try local Yucatecan cuisine, including cochinita pibil, panuchos, and sopa de lima
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals
Be mindful of the region's climate and pack appropriate clothing and sun protection