Chichen Itza: Day Trips and Tours from Cancún

Steeped in history and extravagant in design, Chichen Itza earns its stripes as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Standing at over 30 meters tall amidst tropical jungles, the El Castillo pyramid is an awe-inspiring site to behold—but the iconic pyramid is just the tip of the iceberg; other stunning structures including the Temple of Warriors and The Observatory make a day trip from Cancún to Chichen Itza from Cancún absolutely quintessential.

Located just a few hours from the bustling city, Chichen Itza is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico. With its intricate stone structures and fascinating history, this ancient wonder regularly leaves travelers in awe.

Here's all you need to know about Chichen Itza, one of the most exciting day trips from Cancún.

How to get to Chichen Itza From Cancún?

Chichen Itza is a famous archaeological site located in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, about 200 kilometers inland from Cancún and Playa Del Carmen. It's about a 2.5-hour drive from the city of Cancún.

From Cancún to Chichen Itza by car

Getting from Cancun to Chichen Itza by car is a popular option for those who want the freedom to explore the area at their own pace. The drive to Chichen Itza is about 2.5 hours, so it's important to plan for enough time to get there and back.

From Cancún, you'll head west on the highway toward Merida and along the 200-kilometer drive, popular stops include the Cenote Sac ha, Avión X'can and Valladolid. When you arrive at Chichen Itza, you can park near the archaeological site.

From Cancún to Chichen Itza by public transport

Getting from Cancun to Chichen Itza by public transport is also a popular and affordable option. First, you take a bus from the Cancún bus station to the town of Valladolid, which is about two hours away. Buses run regularly throughout the day and the journey is comfortable and usually air-conditioned.

Once you arrive in Valladolid, you can take a colectivo, which is a shared minivan, to Chichen Itza. Colectivos leave from the town's central square frequently throughout the day, with the journey taking about 30 minutes.

Guided tour to Chichen Itza from Cancún

As the most hassle-free and popular option, taking a guided tour to Chichen Itza from Cancún has many benefits. First, you'll have an expert guide who can provide historical and cultural context to the site. Additionally, you'll typically have access to skip-the-line entry and special viewing areas, which can save time and provide the best views.

Guided tours also include round-trip transportation from Cancún, which means you won't have to worry about navigating the roads or finding parking. Finally, depending on which day tour you choose, you might also have the opportunity to see several other nearby attractions at the same time!

How much does the entrance ticket to Chichen Itza cost?

The entrance ticket to Chichen Itza varies depending on your nationality and age.

• For Mexican residents, the entrance fee is MXN$272 (about US$15).
• For locals residing in the Yucatán, it's MXN$90 (about US$5). Mexican citizens and residents are granted free admission on Sundays.
• For foreign visitors, the fee is MXN$614 (about US$34).
• For non-residents, access to the Kukulkan Nights light show costs MXN$708 from Tuesday to Saturday and MXN$450 on Sundays.

What is the typical itinerary?

A typical itinerary for a tour to Chichen Itza from Cancún usually starts with a morning pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point. From there, you'll travel by air-conditioned bus or van to the archaeological site, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Along the way, you might also make extra stops at Valladolid — a charming town near Chichen Itza — or Ek Balam, another spectacular archaeological site. Once you arrive at Chichen Itza, your guide will provide you with an introduction to the site and the Mayan culture. You'll then have the opportunity to explore the site at your own pace or join a guided tour. Highlights of the site include the Pyramid of Kukulkan (El Castillo), the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court and the Observatory.

After visiting the archaeological site, the tour usually includes a stop for lunch. You'll have the chance to try traditional Yucatecan cuisine, which typically includes dishes such as cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and papadzules (tortillas filled with boiled eggs).

After lunch, the tour may include a visit to a nearby cenote — such as Ik Kil or Hubiku — a natural sinkhole filled with crystal-clear water. Here, you can take a refreshing swim, explore the underwater caves, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Finally, the tour will make its way back to Cancun, with drop-offs at your hotel or a designated location in the late afternoon or early evening.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Chichen Itza?

Small group day tour to Chichen Itza and Valladolid

A comprehensive experience of the area, this style of tour is a full-day adventure that includes a visit to the famous archaeological site, as well as stops at a traditional Mexican town and a beautiful cenote.

The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who will provide information about the history and culture of the area, as well as a delicious traditional meal. Since you'll be with other travelers, this tour is perfect for those who want a budget-friendly and social tour as you explore the local culture and natural beauty of the region.

Sunrise tour to Chichen Itza plus Cenote Ik Kil

This tour provides an early morning visit to the site before it opens to the public, allowing you to enjoy the serenity and beauty of the ancient ruins in peace. The tour also includes a visit to the stunning Cenote Ik Kil, where you can swim and relax in crystal clear waters — in arguably Mexico's most picturesque cenote.

This tour is perfect for those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful morning at one of Mexico's most iconic sites.

Small group tour to Chichen Itza and the Coba ruins

Combining two of the Yucatán's most famous Maya sites, this tour is perfect for history buffs looking to explore more archaeological landmarks. Dating back to the pre-Columbian era, both sites offer an incredible insight into Maya history and culture.

With a knowledgeable guide alongside, the tour includes a guided visit to Chichen Itza and Coba, as well as a stop at a cenote near Coba for a refreshing swim.

Chichen Itza and Yaxunah early access tour

This tour includes an early morning visit to Chichen Itza before the crowds arrive, as well as a visit to the lesser-known Yaxunah archaeological site. Visitors can learn about the ancient Maya civilization and the history of the region from an expert guide.

Typically, the tour also includes a traditional Maya lunch, making it a well-rounded cultural experience.

LDS tour to Chichen Itza and Cenote

The LDS (Latter Day Saints) tour to Chichen Itza and Cenote is a unique and specialized tour that caters specifically to members of the LDS church. The tour includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza site, as well as a stop at a beautiful cenote (usually Cenote Ik Kil) for a refreshing swim.

The tour provides a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights and information about the LDS history and beliefs in the context of the region's rich history and culture. This tour is perfect for those who want to deepen their spiritual connection, while experiencing the beauty and history of the area.

Private tour to Chichen Itza plus Valladolid

Suited to small groups, families and couples wanting a private and personalized experience, this tour includes all the highlights of the area — including a buffet lunch, cenote swims and visits to nearby archaeological sites — with the comfort of a private vehicle and driver.

This tour gives travelers the flexibility to explore at their own pace, with plenty of time for swimming in cenotes, shopping at local markets or exploring the World Wonder.

2-day tour to Chichen Itza and Tulum

For anyone wanting to see more of the Yucatán Peninsula, this two-day tour is perfect. You'll get to sleep in your own Cancun bed, getting picked up on both mornings. Usually, day one features the Hubiku Cenote, Chichén Itzá and Valladolid, while day 2 heads to Tulum and the Cenote Casa Tortuga.

How much does a day trip to Chichen Itza from Cancún cost?

The cost of a guided Chichen Itza tour starts at around US$50 per person and varies depending on the type of tour you choose. Small group day tours from Cancún to Chichen Itza and its surroundings (such as Coba or Yaxunah) range between US$50 and US$150 per person.

An LDS tour costs around US$165 each, while a sunrise tour can cost up to US$360 per person. The 2-day Chichen Itza and Tulum combo tour is priced at just US$70 per person, but some meals may not be included.

Private tours are most expensive, ranging between US$300 and US$400. However, these are usually per vehicle, so it’s not as expensive if traveling as a group.

What will you see and do?

On a guided tour to Chichen Itza, visitors can expect to see and experience the rich history and culture of the ancient Maya civilization. Chichen Itza features the iconic pyramid (El Castillo), temple ruins, a ball court (one of the largest and best-preserved examples of its kind) and other fascinating structures.

A knowledgeable guide will provide insights and information about the history, architecture, and symbolism of the site. In addition to the site itself, visitors can also expect to explore the local area, which may include a visit to a handful of the following places.

Valladolid

A colorful town dating back to the Spanish conquest, Valladolid is renowned for its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. The 16th-century San Bernardino de Siena Church and the Convent of San Bernardino are two of the town’s most iconic landmarks.

Cenote Ik Kil

One of the area's natural wonders, Cenote Ik Kil is a stunning sinkhole filled with crystal-clear blue waters and hanging Tarzan-like vines that provide an exciting swimming opportunity — and make for some great photo ops.

Cenote Hubiku

The Hubiku cenote is also well worth a visit. Its unique circular shape and daily light beams provide an unforgettable experience for those who seek to explore the area's natural beauty.

Coba

Covering more than 80 square kilometers, Coba is an ancient city with a sprawling network of interconnected roads. The highlight here is the Nohoch Mul pyramid, which you can climb to get incredible views of the surrounding rainforest.

Ek Balam

Sitting 56 kilometers northeast of Chichen Itza, Ek Balam is a small Mayan ruin. It is home to the impressive structure known as El Torre (The Tower), which stands over 30 meters tall!

What are the opening times?

The opening times for Chichen Itza are from 8 AM to 5 PM daily, with last entries at 4 PM.

When is the best time to visit Chichen Itza?

The best time to visit Chichen Itza is during the shoulder seasons of late fall and early spring. The weather is milder, and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer season. Also, visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can provide a quieter and more pleasant experience.

Chichen Itza is open year-round, so you can plan your trip according to your preferences and schedule. As for time of day, it’s recommended to start early in the morning so that you can make the most of your day trip!

Are there any tours to Chichen Itza from other cities in Mexico?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Mexico:

• Day trips to Chichen Itza from Playa del Carmen
• Day trips to Chichen Itza from Merida
• Day trips to Chichen Itza from Tulum

Travel tips

• Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and heat.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the site requires a lot of walking and uneven terrain.
• Book a guided tour online and in advance to learn more about the site and the Maya civilization from a knowledgeable guide.