Chichen Itza Day Trip: Exploring Mayan Ruins, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid

If you’re planning a trip to Cancun or Riviera Maya, a visit to Chichen Itza is an absolute must. It’s an iconic archaeological site that shouldn’t be missed. During our trip, we stayed at the Hard Rock Riviera Maya (check out our review here) and embarked on an exciting excursion that took us to Chichen Itza, a cenote, and the charming town of Valladolid.

However, keep in mind that due to time constraints, you won’t have an extensive stay in each place. We spent roughly an hour exploring the ancient wonders, but with changing weather conditions and the heat, swimming time is limited.

The Journey Begins

Our day started from the hotel lobby. The drive to Chichen Itza took a little over 2 hours, but the scenic route made it worthwhile. Along the way, we made a pit stop at a local restaurant and shop. Here, we learned about black obsidian stone and the fascinating history of the village. Our buffet lunch was decent, although the drinks were a bit pricey compared to the local cost of living.

Chichen Itza: Ancient Wonders

Upon arriving at Chichen Itza, we were greeted by the impressive step pyramid of Kukulcan. Our knowledgeable guide shared captivating stories about its history, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the Mayan culture. Remember to pack sunscreen, stay hydrated, and consider bringing a hat or umbrella—the open space can get scorching hot.

Souvenirs and Bargains

As we left Chichen Itza, we encountered numerous street vendors peddling souvenirs. Their favourite phrase? “Only one dollar!” (in US currency). With over 100 stalls selling similar items, be prepared to browse and haggle for the best prices.

Cenote Saamal: A Refreshing Oasis

Next on our itinerary was Cenote Saamal, one of the many cenotes in the region. These natural sinkholes are part of an underground river network sacred to the Maya people. While there’s an entrance fee to swim in the cenote, it’s absolutely worth it. The view is breathtaking! For the adventurous, there’s a platform for jumping into the crystal-clear water. If you’re not feeling quite as brave, take the walk down to enter the refreshing pool.

Valladolid: Colonial Charm

After a satisfying stop, we continued to Valladolid, a picturesque colonial city. We had about an hour here to explore the town, admire colourful facades, and soak in the local history. Don’t forget to grab a souvenir to remember this charming place.

Heading Back to the Hotel

After a long day of exploration, we headed back to our hotel, reflecting on the rich experiences and memories we’d made.

In Summary

Our Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid tour was a perfect blend of ancient wonders, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to experience Mexico’s rich heritage, this excursion has it all.

Booking Tips

As we booked the excursion directly from the hotel, we weren’t sure which operator was providing the tour. However, there are other day trip tours with similar itineraries. Just be mindful of where the tour starts – some operators offer hotel pick-up from Cancun, while others start from Riviera Maya.

Here are some similar day trip you can explore:

Safe travels!

Explore our additional blog about our trip to Riviera Maya below