Chichén Itzá before the crowds cenote and lunch

Experience one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites, a crystal-clear cenote with a full regional meal, and the timeless charm of a Yucatán colonial town; all in a single unforgettable day from Playa del Carmen.

What's included:

✅ Round transportation (Air-conditioned vehicle)
✅ All entrance fees (Chichen Itza archaeological zone; Selva Maya cenote with meal)
✅ Federal certified archaeological guide (bilingual Spanish/English)
✅ Complete regional meal with fresh local flavors (included at Selva Maya cenote)
✅ One drink of choice (water, soft drinks, fresh juice, or beer)
✅ Swimming and snorkeling at the pristine cenote
✅ Guided walking tour of Valladolid's historic colonial center

Meeting and pickup:

📍 Meeting point

 

Lara y Luca Restaurant.

Diag. Aeropuerto MZ 29-LT 4, fase II, Playacar, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.

(Hotel/Airbnb pickup and drop-off can also be arranged upon request for an additional fee.)

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🏁 End point

 

Lara y Luca Restaurant.

Diag. Aeropuerto MZ 29-LT 4, fase II, Playacar, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.

(Hotel/Airbnb pickup and drop-off can also be arranged upon request for an additional fee.)

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🕖 Operating hours:

07:30 am - 05:30 pm

approximate; duration ~10 hours depending on traffic and local conditions

(As with all experiences in the Riviera Maya, timings are approximate and may vary slightly depending on local traffic and road conditions. We appreciate your flexibility and will always do our best to provide a seamless experience.)

🚐 Pickup Available:

Hotel/Airbnb pickup and drop-off available; please request with your location

Itinerary:

 

1️⃣ CHICHEN ITZA ARCHAEOLOGICAL ZONE

Early morning departure from Playa del Carmen gives us the advantage of arriving at Chichen Itza before the massive tour groups, allowing for a more intimate and meaningful experience at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your federal certified guide will lead you through the archaeological zone, explaining the mysteries and history of this remarkable Mayan city. From the breathtaking Sacred Cenote, to the iconic Pyramid of Kukulkan (El Castillo), the Great Ball Court, the Temple of Warriors; every structure tells a story of an advanced civilization that flourished centuries ago.

The new entrance path first leads to the Sacred Cenote before the main plaza, creating a unique perspective on how the Mayans viewed this sacred space. The guided tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photographs and absorb the spiritual energy of this ancient place.

2️⃣ SELVA MAYA CENOTE (SAAMAL) & LUNCH

After the archaeological tour, we head to the peaceful Selva Maya cenote (also known as Saamal), a hidden gem surrounded by lush jungle just outside Valladolid. This open cenote offers a serene contrast to the grandeur of Chichen Itza.

Swimming and snorkeling in the clean waters of this cenote is a refreshing experience. The cenote's natural beauty, with towering jungle canopy overhead and ancient rock formations framing the pristine waters, creates an almost magical setting.

A complete regional meal is included at a genuine local restaurant where you'll enjoy an exquisite buffet of traditional Yucatecan dishes, with flavorful options to suit all tastes and preferences. Choose from fresh local dishes prepared with traditional recipes and seasonal ingredients. A refreshing drink completes the dining experience: select from bottled water, soft drinks, freshly made juice, or an ice-cold beer.

2️⃣ VALLADOLID COLONIAL TOWN

After cenote swimming and a great lunch, we explore the charming colonial heart of Valladolid. The focal point is the town's beautiful central plaza, surrounded by colorful colonial architecture and the impressive Cathedral, which your guide will explain in detail.

As you stroll through this lively gathering place, you may encounter local dancers performing traditional Yucatecan or pre-Hispanic dances; a vibrant expression of the region's living culture. There's time to browse local crafts at nearby stalls, or simply relax with a refreshing local ice cream from traditional vendors.

This is authentic Yucatan away from mass tourism; a chance to experience how locals truly live in this charming 16th-century town. The combination of ancient Mayan heritage, natural cenote beauty, and colonial character creates a comprehensive journey through Yucatan's diverse cultural layers.

 

 

What to bring:

    • A towel
    • Comfortable walking shoes suitable for archaeological zones and town exploration
    • Dry clothes to change into after cenote swimming (for the ride back)
    • Swimsuit
    • Long, lightweight clothing or cover-ups (recommended for sun protection at the archaeological site; helps you stay comfortable and protected during the 2-hour tour)
    • Hat or cap
    • Reusable water bottle (plastic water bottles are not permitted; we provide complimentary filtered water to refill your bottle throughout the day)
    • Cash (optional, for tips, souvenirs, or additional purchases in Valladolid)

You may also want to bring some cash, in case you wish to purchase useful items such as:

    • (Optional) A rash guard or light wetsuit for extra sun protection in the cenote
    • Eco-friendly bug spray (insect repellent)
    • Waterproof phone case or GoPro cover

Important Notes:

🌍 Sustainable Tourism: Soul Experiences is committed to responsible tourism. We respect Chichen Itza as a sacred archaeological site and follow all preservation guidelines.

🐢 Sunscreen Policy: Sunscreen is not permitted in the cenote to protect the delicate ecosystem. Instead, we recommend wearing lightweight, long-sleeved clothing or cover-ups—this provides excellent sun protection, safeguards against insect bites, and helps preserve the cenote environment.

🦟 Insect Repellent: If you plan to use bug spray, choose eco-friendly options to help preserve the cenote and jungle ecosystems.

Additional info:

    • Maximum group size: 13 participants on shared tours (ensuring an intimate, personalized experience)
    • Minimum requirement: 6 participants
    • The guide is a Federal Certified Archaeologist, bilingual (Spanish/English)
    • A Mayan heritage guide can be arranged upon request for an additional fee (not included in standard tour)
    • Early morning start ensures arrival at Chichen Itza before large tour groups, providing a more intimate experience
    • Optional hotel/Airbnb pickup and drop-off available for an additional fee (inquire for pricing)
    • This tour covers two different states: Quintana Roo (starting point) and Yucatan (Chichen Itza and Valladolid are in Yucatan, one hour behind local time)
    • Available: Monday - Saturday (Note: Sundays not recommended due to higher local visitor traffic and larger crowds at archaeological sites)
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