Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya
Costa Maya, Mexico

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya

Outty Ranking 69 4.8 · 26 traveler reviews4 hoursFrom $89
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Outty Ranking

69/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 26 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya worth booking?

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya is a 4-hour experience in Costa Maya, Mexico, from $89 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 26 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
69 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (26)
Duration
4 hours
From
$89 per person

Travel through history and discover the ancient Maya city of Chacchoben, where impressive monuments rise among the tropical jungle. Walk through ancient plazas and ceremonial grounds as your certified guide reveals the history, secrets and legends of a civilization that flourished here centuries ago. Follow the same paths once walked by Maya priests, nobles and rulers, and imagine the ceremonies that once filled this ancient city. Walk beneath the jungle canopy as ancient temples and ceremonial structures emerge among the trees, while mysterious mounds hidden beneath vegetation hint at the secrets Chacchoben has yet to reveal. Along the way, discover native plants, tropical birds and keep your eyes on the trees for spider monkeys in their natural habitat. More than a visit to ancient ruins, this is your chance to walk through Maya history where it happened, surrounded by the monuments, stories and jungle that have guarded Chacchoben for centuries.

What you get

    About this experience

    Travel through history and discover the ancient Maya city of Chacchoben, where impressive monuments rise among the tropical jungle. Walk through ancient plazas and ceremonial grounds as your certified guide reveals the history, secrets and legends of a civilization that flourished here centuries ago. Follow the same paths once walked by Maya priests, nobles and rulers, and imagine the ceremonies that once filled this ancient city. Walk beneath the jungle canopy as ancient temples and ceremonial structures emerge among the trees, while mysterious mounds hidden beneath vegetation hint at the secrets Chacchoben has yet to reveal. Along the way, discover native plants, tropical birds and keep your eyes on the trees for spider monkeys in their natural habitat. More than a visit to ancient ruins, this is your chance to walk through Maya history where it happened, surrounded by the monuments, stories and jungle that have guarded Chacchoben for centuries.

    What's included

    Included

    • Bottled water
    • Approximately 2-hour guided tour of the Mayan ruins
    • Certified Tour Guide
    • Entrance fees to Chacchoben Archaeological Site
    • Roundtrip transportation from Costa Maya in an air-conditioned vehicle

    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

    1. Zona Arqueologica De Chacchoben

      Your adventure begins one hour after your cruise arrives at Costa Maya Port. Enjoy the scenic 50-minute drive to Chacchoben, an ancient Maya site dating back to around 200 BC. Follow your certified guide into the ceremonial heart of Chacchoben, a Maya city that reached its peak around 300 AD. Explore impressive temples and plazas while discovering the stories, beliefs and traditions of the civilization that once flourished here. Walk beneath the jungle canopy as restored structures rise alongside mysterious mounds still covered by vegetation. Discover native plants, tropical birds and, with a little luck, spider monkeys in the trees. Continue to the Gran Basamento, the ritual heart of Chacchoben, for spectacular views of Temple One and the surrounding jungle as your guide brings the ancient city to life. After your visit, enjoy time to browse local crafts and souvenirs before relaxing on the 50-minute drive back to Costa Maya, filled with memories of the ancient Maya world.

      240 minutes here · Admission included

    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 14 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Next Experience Travel

    Know before you go

    • 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.
    • No port, no pay! Guaranteed full refund if your cruise ship does not call port in Costa Maya at all
    • IMPORTANT: Travelers coming by cruise ship must provide the full name of the ship and docking time
    • Temple Access: For preservation purposes, climbing the temples is not permitted.
    • Children: The historical content and jungle walk are best appreciated by children ages 6 and older. Younger children are welcome.
    • Weather: This tour operates rain or shine. Please check the forecast and dress appropriately for the day’s weather.
    • What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen. We recommend carrying some cash for souvenirs or small purchases, as cards are not accepted at Chacchoben.
    • Cameras: A fee of $5 USD applies to dedicated video cameras and GoPros and is paid directly at the archaeological site. Tripods and drones are prohibited inside the archaeological zone.
    • Wildlife: Chacchoben is surrounded by a natural jungle environment. Wildlife sightings, including spider monkeys and tropical birds, cannot be guaranteed.
    • 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. Guests should be comfortable walking along outdoor trails with occasional rocks, roots and uneven terrain.
    • Transportation vehicles can accommodate foldable/collapsible wheelchairs only. Non-folding wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.

    Photos

    Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya, photo 2Discover the past of an incredible culture, Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa MayaChacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya, photo 4Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya, photo 5Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya, photo 6Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 26 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    26 verified traveler reviews for Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    23
    4 star
    2
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    Krissy_H · November 2025

    Mayan village

    Hard to get out of the port shopping area, ask others for directions, once out, hard to find travel guide, not well marked. Once we did find them, took about :40 to get there. We had plenty of time 1:30 to tour the village. Was worth the trek. Not very well suited for handicap access. Climbing to top of ruins was slippery and treacherous.

    Response from the operator: Hi Krissy_H, So happy to hear you enjoyed your Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with a Certified Guide during your cruise vacation onboard the Allure of the Seas! We truly appreciate you choosing to spend your day with us at Costa Maya – Perfect Day Mexico, right here in the beautiful Mexican Caribbean. Thank you for sharing your honest experience and helpful tips for future travelers. Chacchoben is an incredible ancient Mayan archaeological site, and we’re glad you felt the journey was worth it and that you had plenty of time to explore and learn about the ruins. We also appreciate you noting the physical aspects of the site, as preserving these historic ruins means access can be challenging in some areas. Thanks again for exploring Costa Maya, Mexico with us! Feel free to share your travel stories and tag us on Instagram and Facebook @NextExperienceTravel so other cruise travelers can discover this amazing destination too. Hope to welcome you on another adventure soon! Warm regards, The Next Experience Travel Team 🌴

    via Viator

    James_B · June 2025

    Really neat tour with 3 Mayan pyramids

    We did this tour from a cruise ship early June 2025, weather was great, very few mosquitoes. An easy 1 hour bus ride, air conditioning worked well. There are 3 pyramids there, one at ground level, but the other two are up a hill with some steps to climb maybe 30 feet high that could be tough for someone either limited mobility. It is worth it though, very interesting, and the pyramids are in good condition. We liked this tour and would recommend it.

    Response from the operator: Hi James, We’re thrilled you enjoyed your visit to the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins with us during your cruise on Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady! It sounds like you had a great day exploring this incredible site—thanks for pointing out those helpful tips for fellow travelers too. We’re so glad you chose to spend your day in Costa Maya with us in the beautiful Mexican Caribbean! Don’t forget to share your stories and tag us on Instagram or Facebook at @NextExperienceTravel—we’d love to see your photos and inspire other adventurers out there! Hope to welcome you again soon! Tropical regards, The Next Experience Travel Team 🌴

    via Viator

    Francis_R · April 2025

    Booking Cancelled by Tour Operator without Notice

    This was a terrible experience. The tour operator canceled our reservation without notice. I received a confirmation email and my credit card was charged three days before the scheduled tour only to be told on the day of that it was cancelled. When speaking to them via phone they attempted to blame me and offered no option other than refunding my money. It’s now two days later and no refund has been processed. The Viator app indicates that we took the tour as they show rewards added to my account. This tour of the Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya Mexico was to be the first time back in Mexico for family members with deep Mexican roots. They of course were very disappointed.

    Response from the operator: Hi Francis, Thank you for choosing us during your vacation in the beautiful Costa Maya, in the heart of the Mexican Caribbean. We’re truly sorry to hear about your experience. Shortly after your booking, we informed you via email that the tour was already sold out due to high demand during peak season. We also sent follow-up reminders but didn’t receive a response before the tour date. Please know we’re not placing blame—just explaining what happened. Since the booking was made through our trusted partner Viator, your refund was processed through them. Refunds typically take 5–7 business days to appear on your original payment method. We understand how important this visit was for your family and regret that we couldn’t be part of that special moment. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you again in the future for a much better experience. Warm regards, Next Experience Travel Team

    via Viator

    rosemarylipman · March 2025

    Fun visiting the past.

    The guide was very knowledgeable and graciously answered all our questions. The price was significantly less than the cruise excursion.

    Response from the operator: Hi Rosemary, We’re thrilled you enjoyed your visit to the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins with us during your MSC World America cruise! It’s great to hear our certified guide made your day extra special with knowledge and care—and we’re glad you found it a great value too! Thanks for choosing to explore Costa Maya with us in the beautiful Mexican Caribbean. Don’t forget to tag us @NextExperienceTravel on Instagram or Facebook—we’d love to see your adventure and help future travelers discover this incredible destination! Looking forward to seeing you again on your next journey! Tropical regards, The Next Experience Travel Team

    via Tripadvisor

    Roger_T · March 2025

    Long walk from ship

    The guide and driver were awesome. The walk from the cruise ship to kiosk was way to long. The company that provide the excursion should allow the use of a scooter from ship to kiosk and store in their new office.

    Response from the operator: Hi Roger_T, We’re so glad you had a great time visiting the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins with us during your cruise on Carnival Jubilee! It's awesome to hear our guide and driver helped make your day special. We understand the walk through the cruise terminal can feel long—thanks for pointing that out! Our meeting point is just outside the port area, and while the distance is beyond our control, we’re always happy to assist however we can. Thanks again for spending your day in beautiful Costa Maya with us! Feel free to share your photos and tag us on Instagram or Facebook at @NextExperienceTravel—we’d love to see your adventure and inspire fellow travelers! Tropical regards, The Next Experience Travel Team 🌴

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    4 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    9
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Next Experience Travel, who run 79 experiences we rank across 16 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 50.4.

    See everything Next Experience Travel runs

    Why this scores 69

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)77
    Review evidence (18% weight)54
    Booking momentum (14% weight)45
    Value for money (12% weight)66
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)69
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Costa Maya.

    How much does Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya cost?

    +

    Prices start at $89 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 Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya take?

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    Plan for about 4 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 Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 26 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 Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya?

    +

    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 Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya?

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    Around 9 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 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya?

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    Included: Bottled water; Approximately 2-hour guided tour of the Mayan ruins; Certified Tour Guide; Entrance fees to Chacchoben Archaeological Site; and Roundtrip transportation from Costa Maya in an air-conditioned vehicle. 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 Tour with Certified Guide from 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. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya 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 Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya?

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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 Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: 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 Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya 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 Tour with Certified Guide from Costa Maya?

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    Across 26 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, value for money. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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