Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 8 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience worth booking?
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience is a 5.5-hour experience in Costa Maya, Mexico, from $111 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 8 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 60 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (8)
- Duration
- 5.5 hours
- From
- $111 per person
As your adventure begins from Costa Maya Port, travel through history on a guided visit to the ancient Maya city of Chacchoben, followed by an encounter with Maya descendants in the village of the same name. Witness the daily life of the heirs of this great culture as you interact with your hosts and a local family who will make this experience unforgettable. Discover everything from traditional tortilla ingredients to home remedies and traditions passed down through generations. A family visit would not be complete without sharing a meal. Enjoy traditional dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients, regional spices and family recipes, offering an authentic taste of Yucatecan cuisine. This experience connects the ancient Maya world with the living culture of their descendants today. For those seeking a deeper understanding of our local culture and history, this tour is an absolute must. Join us on this adventure and let the Maya legacy unfold before your eyes.
What you get
About this experience
As your adventure begins from Costa Maya Port, travel through history on a guided visit to the ancient Maya city of Chacchoben, followed by an encounter with Maya descendants in the village of the same name. Witness the daily life of the heirs of this great culture as you interact with your hosts and a local family who will make this experience unforgettable. Discover everything from traditional tortilla ingredients to home remedies and traditions passed down through generations. A family visit would not be complete without sharing a meal. Enjoy traditional dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients, regional spices and family recipes, offering an authentic taste of Yucatecan cuisine. This experience connects the ancient Maya world with the living culture of their descendants today. For those seeking a deeper understanding of our local culture and history, this tour is an absolute must. Join us on this adventure and let the Maya legacy unfold before your eyes.
What's included
Included
- Carbonated beverages
- Bottled water
- Visit with a local Maya family in Chacchoben Village
- Roundtrip transportation from Costa Maya
- Chacchoben archaeological site admission & entrance fees
- Authentic Yucatecan lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients & traditional family recipes
- Guided tour of Chacchoben Mayan Ruins with a certified tour guide
- Interactive Maya cultural experience: tortilla making, local ingredients & traditional home remedies
Not included
- $5.00 USD copyright fee for the use of cameras at Chacchoben. This is paid directly at the site.
- Souvenirs
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Zona Arqueologica De Chacchoben
Your adventure begins one hour after your cruise ship arrives at Costa Maya Port. From the meeting point just outside the port, travel approximately 50 minutes to Chacchoben, watching the scenery change as you make your way into the lush Maya jungle. Explore Chacchoben, an ancient Maya city with origins dating back to around 200 BC. Follow your guide along jungle trails to discover impressive temples, ceremonial structures and partially excavated mounds still hidden beneath the vegetation. Learn about the people who once lived here and the fascinating history, flora and fauna surrounding the site. After exploring the ruins, continue approximately 15 minutes to Chacchoben Village, where your journey takes you from the world of the ancient Maya to Maya culture as it is lived today.
150 minutes here · Admission included
Chacchoben
Visit Chacchoben Village, home to descendants of the ancient Maya, where a local family welcomes you into their community. Experience daily life as you interact with your hosts and discover traditions passed down through generations. Learn about local ingredients and home remedies, and even try making a tortilla the traditional way. A family visit would not be complete without sharing a meal. Enjoy an authentic Yucatecan lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients, regional spices and family recipes. Your hosts will share the ingredients and techniques behind the dishes, giving you a true taste of Maya culture. More than a village visit, this is a chance to share stories, make new friends and experience Maya culture through the people keeping its traditions alive today. After saying goodbye to your hosts, relax on the 50-minute drive back to Costa Maya, taking with you new memories and a deeper appreciation for Maya culture — past and present.
180 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Costa Maya
Your tour departs one hour after your cruise arrives at Costa Maya Port. Meet at Plaza Las Fuentes, just outside the port area. Allow 15 minutes to walk from your ship. Provide your full cruise ship name when booking. Detailed directions and a map will follow confirmation.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Your tour departs one hour after your cruise arrives at Costa Maya Port. Meet at Plaza Las Fuentes, just outside the port area. Allow 15 minutes to walk from your ship. Provide your full cruise ship name when booking. Detailed directions and a map will follow confirmation.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Cruise Port Adventures
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour will depart one hour after your cruise arrives to port from Plaza Las Fuentes, conveniently located just a few steps away from the main access of Costa Maya Port.
- Please note that the total walking time from your cruise ship to the meeting point is about 15 minutes.
- Cruise guests arriving after 12 PM. Make the most of your limited time in port by booking our Chacchoben Mayan City Tour or our beach break options
- No port, no pay! Guaranteed full refund if your cruise ship does not call port in Costa Maya at all
- Chacchoben Site Rules: Visitors may not climb the archaeological monuments. The use of tripods and drones are prohibited at the Mayan City
- Video Recording Permit: A $5 USD fee applies to dedicated personal video cameras such as GoPros and camcorders and is paid directly at the archaeological site. Standard personal photography does not require this permit.
- Children: Children of all ages may participate, although the historical content and jungle walk are generally best enjoyed by children ages 6 and older.
- What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen and extra cash for optional purchases. Cards are not accepted at Chacchoben.
- Rain or Shine: This tour operates rain or shine. Please check the forecast and dress appropriately for the day’s weather.
- Late Arrivals / No-Shows: Guests who arrive late or fail to show up for their scheduled activity are not eligible for a refund.
- This is a walking tour suitable for guests with a basic level of fitness. Participants should be comfortable walking outdoors on jungle trails with some uneven terrain, rocks and roots.
- Transportation vehicles can accommodate foldable/collapsible wheelchairs only. Non-folding wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Please advise us in advance if assistance is required.
- Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are available upon request. Please provide any dietary requirements in advance so the host family can prepare accordingly.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 8 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
7 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
8 verified traveler reviews for Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great tour, but nonexistent tour company name given and getting to meeting point took a long time
The tour was WONDERFUL, once we found the company that had our reservation! You have quite a long walk to get to the port, and then have to find your way out of the port and walk up a road. When we got there, the company viator told us to look for was nowhere to be found. I thought we may have missed it, as it took so long to get there on foot, and none of the taxi drivers knew the address or company. Finally went to a place with another name that we HADN'T been given and they had our reservation. I was SO happy to find it but so mad at viator it took me a while to calm down. After that, everything was perfect: wonderful guides, walk at Chachoben was flat, so my friend made it ok, the ruins were breathtaking, saw a bunch of spider monkeys, too, which was great, and the lunch hosted by Mayan natives was exceptional (and so were they!)
via Viator
We loved this tour!!!
Diego was an amazing guide! We loved all of the information & cultural knowledge. And the lunch was “ki” (“delicious” in Mayan t’aan). You will be wishing others "ma'alob k'iin" (good day) and forever have a higher standard of what “Mexican” food can taste like - learning how to form our own fresh corn tortillas then eat them fresh off the grill? Amazing! Chacchoben was so cool and we even got to see spider monkeys playing in the wild!! Native Tours put together a lovely day. Education, a comfortable ride, water, and kindness. My whole family was engaged - including all 3 kids, aged 14, 11, and 5! Sincere thanks for this tour which was the highlight of our cruise!!!
Response from the operator: Hi Sarah, What a beautiful review, thank you! "Ma'alob k'iin" to you too! Diego will be so happy to read that you loved his information and cultural knowledge, and we're thrilled you got to make your own fresh tortillas, enjoy the lunch and see spider monkeys at Chacchoben. Thank you for choosing Cruise Port Adventures in Costa Maya while on board Liberty of the Seas, and special thanks to your whole family, from the 14-year-old to the 5-year-old, for being so engaged. Hope to see you on your next cruise! Warm regards, The Cruise Port Adventures Team
via Viator
Wonderful tour
Highly recommend!! Maria was friendly and knowledgeable. Our tour guide at the archeological site was informative. We didn’t feel rushed and the group wasn’t too big. We could ask questions and hear well. It was warm, but they handed out plenty of water if needed. The village site was very nice, everyone got to make and eat their tortilla and then they explained some about the lunch dishes which were very tasty. Had time to walk around the garden. Virginia at the village was wonderful with my talkative son. Returned back to the port in plenty of time to do a little shopping. We were supposed to do this tour last year and our ship didn’t port due to winds, so glad we got to do it this year!
Response from the operator: Hi Hillary, What a lovely review, thank you! We'll tell Maria and our guide at the archaeological site that you found them friendly, knowledgeable and informative, and Virginia will love hearing she was wonderful with your talkative son. Thank you for choosing Cruise Port Adventures in Costa Maya while on board MSC World America, and we're so glad the tour finally happened after your ship couldn't port last year, with plenty of time back at the port for some shopping. Hope to see you on your next cruise! Warm regards, The Cruise Port Adventures Team
via Viator
Best Mayan experience
Truly authentic Mayan experience with incredibly knowledgeable tour guides Yoshi and Alan. Our favorite tour so far! Highly recommend! Lunch provided was very good and authentic Mayan cuisine! Don't miss it!!
Response from the operator: Hi Beatriz, Thank you for choosing Cruise Port Adventures in Costa Maya while on board MSC Grandiosa! We'll tell Yoshi and Alan that you found them incredibly knowledgeable, and we're delighted that this was your favorite tour so far and that you loved the authentic Mayan lunch. Hope to see you on your next cruise! Warm regards, The Cruise Port Adventures Team
via Viator
Had a good time
Instead of overpaying for a tour from Icon of the Seas, we went with this local company and had zero regrets. Carlos took his time at Chacchoben, answered questions, and never rushed us. After that, the cultural stop with Mayan food and traditions was really interesting. We even had time to walk around the port before all-aboard.
Response from the operator: Hi there, Thank you for choosing Cruise Port Adventures in Costa Maya while on board Icon of the Seas! We'll tell Carlos he took his time, answered all your questions and never rushed you, and we're glad the Mayan food and traditions were interesting and that you had time to walk around the port before all-aboard. Hope to see you on your next cruise! Warm regards, The Cruise Port Adventures Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 5.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $111 to $121
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 3
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Cruise Port Adventures, who run 19 experiences we rank across 4 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.4.
See everything Cruise Port Adventures runsWhy this scores 60
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Costa Maya.
How much does Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience cost?
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Prices start at $111 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Costa Maya usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience take?
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Plan for about 5.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Costa Maya is not rushed.
Is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 8 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Costa Maya, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience?
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Around 3 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Costa Maya can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Costa Maya and add a light layer if any part of the 5.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Costa Maya within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Costa Maya?
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On Outty we rank every Costa Maya experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Chacchoben & Bacalar Combo Excursion Costa Maya, Costa Maya Shore Excursion Chacchoben Day Trip, Chacchoben Mayan Ruins from Costa Maya. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Costa Maya?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Costa Maya?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience?
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Included: Carbonated beverages; Bottled water; Visit with a local Maya family in Chacchoben Village; Roundtrip transportation from Costa Maya; and Chacchoben archaeological site admission & entrance fees. Not included: $5.00 USD copyright fee for the use of cameras at Chacchoben. This is paid directly at the; Souvenirs; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience?
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Your tour departs one hour after your cruise arrives at Costa Maya Port. Meet at Plaza Las Fuentes, just outside the port area. Allow 15 minutes to walk from your ship. Provide your full cruise ship name when booking. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Transportation vehicles can accommodate foldable/collapsible wheelchairs only. Non-folding. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Costa Maya. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Authentic Maya Experience?
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Across 8 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, the guide, knowledge and storytelling. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
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