
Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera
Traveler rating
3.4/5
Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera worth booking?
Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera is a 12-hour experience in Punta Sam, Mexico, from $20 per person. It scores 49 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.4/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 49 / 100
- Rating
- 3.4/5 (5)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $20 per person
This is an excellent way to discover the great city of Chichen Itza, imagine being in an ancient Mayan city, you will discover all the secrets that the Mayans used to grow and how they became one of the most important cultures in the world. Our adventure will continue with the visit to a breathtaking cenote, either Chichikan or Noolha. Both are remarkable for their size and crystal-clear waters, offering an unforgettable experience. After that we will go to one of the last colonial towns, the beautiful Valladolid, here you will be able to buy a regional and folkloric dress or shirt, to taste the real Mexican ice cream and why not to buy a lot of souvenirs for your family. We offer no long lines, direct access to Chichen Itza. We recommend bringing a towel with you and comfortable close shoes, you must use biodegradable sunblock if you want to swim in the cenote. Book now and live this ancient adventure with us!
What you get
About this experience
This is an excellent way to discover the great city of Chichen Itza, imagine being in an ancient Mayan city, you will discover all the secrets that the Mayans used to grow and how they became one of the most important cultures in the world. Our adventure will continue with the visit to a breathtaking cenote, either Chichikan or Noolha. Both are remarkable for their size and crystal-clear waters, offering an unforgettable experience. After that we will go to one of the last colonial towns, the beautiful Valladolid, here you will be able to buy a regional and folkloric dress or shirt, to taste the real Mexican ice cream and why not to buy a lot of souvenirs for your family. We offer no long lines, direct access to Chichen Itza. We recommend bringing a towel with you and comfortable close shoes, you must use biodegradable sunblock if you want to swim in the cenote. Book now and live this ancient adventure with us!
What's included
Included
- Lunch
- Admission to Mayan Cenote (Noolha or Chichikan)
- Quick visit to Valladolid
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Guided visit at Chichen Itza and free time to explore
Not included
- Drinks and Box Lunch (upgrade to Plus tour to include them)
- Taxes for professional or GoPro cameras in Chichén Itzá
- Life Jacket at Cenote required extra cash at entry
- Government fees
What you'll see and do
Yucatan
After one of our air-conditioned vehicles picks you up at your hotel or meeting point in Cancun or Riviera Maya, you will be transferred to the starting point to begin our excursion to Chichen Itza. There, you will board your transportation where, during the course of the day, our certified guide will provide you with more information about the tour, the activities to be done and the destinations we will visit. Our first stop will be at the restaurant, where you will enjoy a delicious regional lunch and taste authentic Yucatecan dishes. Next to the restaurant you will find handicrafts made by the artisans of the region, as well as souvenir stores at the best prices.
60 minutes here
Chichen Itza
Meet and enjoy the enigmatic Chichen Itza archeological site, fabulous ceremonial center of the Mayan civilization, named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and its renowned Temple of Kukulcán, considered one of the 7 New Wonders of the Modern World. Make this magical journey through time, discovering the secrets stored in the buildings of this ancient city of the Mayan civilization, one of the most advanced in the pre-Hispanic world. Admire and contemplate several buildings such as the Market of the Thousand Columns, the Temple of the Warriors with the statue of Chacmool, the Game Ball, the Temple of the Jaguar, the astronomical observatory and the wonderful Temple of Kukulcán, one of the most emblematic monuments of the Mayan civilization. The tour includes a professional and certified guide who will tell you the real history of this magical place. After the guided visit, you will have free time so you can explore on your own and you can take marvelous pictures.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Chichikan
You will visit either Chichikan Cenote or Noolha Cenote, depending on the day’s logistics. Both cenotes are located in the middle of the enigmatic jungle of the Yucatan peninsula where you can enter to visit and refresh yourself with a purifying bath in the crystalline and underground waters. According to the Mayan belief cenotes are protected by a mythological figure, guardian of the forest, called alux.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Valladolid
Back to the Riviera Maya or Cancun, we visit the city center of Valladolid, located in the heart of Yucatan, you´ll see the Church of San Gervacio, and you can admire this beautiful place full of history. Don´t miss the opportunity to buy a typical Mayan shirt or if you prefer a complete dress called "hipil". Here you will have the opportunity of taste classic Mexican ice cream.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
PLUS TOUR FROM CANCUN
BUFFET, BOX LUNCH AND DRINKS: You will have a morning snack and on the bus you will have sodas, water and beer. At the restaurant, you will have 2 drinks. CANCUN & PTO MORELOS HOTELS: Select if your hotel is located in Cancun Hotel Zone, Cancun Downtown or Puerto Morelos. SANITIZED BUS: The buses are disinfected daily to offer you security in your transfer. Pickup included
CLASSIC TOUR FROM RIVIERA MAYA
BUFFET LUNCH RIVIERA MAYA HOTELS: Select this option if your hotel is between Nickelodeon's hotel and Super Aki Tulum. SANITIZED BUS: The buses are disinfected daily to offer you security in your transfer Pickup included
PLUS TOUR FROM RIVIERA MAYA
BUFFET, BOX LUNCH AND DRINKS: You will have a morning snack and on the bus you will have: sodas, water and beer. At the restaurant, you will have 2 drinks. RIVIERA MAYA HOTELS: Select this option if your hotel is located between Nickelodeon's hotel and Super Aki Tulum. SANITIZED BUS: The buses are disinfected daily to offer you security in your transfer. Pickup included
CLASSIC TOUR FROM CANCUN
BUFFET LUNCH CANCUN & PTO MORELOS HOTELS: Select if your hotel is located in Cancun Hotel Zone, Cancun Downtown or Puerto Morelos. SANITIZED BUS: The buses are disinfected daily to offer you security in your transfer Pickup included
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 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Top Travel Connection
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Backpacks are strictly prohibited inside the archaeological site.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Value for money
1 mentionTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Organization
1 mentionPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Good for families
1 mentionReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
5 verified traveler reviews for Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
I knew we were in for a...
I knew we were in for a long day, but we were in for an even longer day than we thought. Every activity was in a different location so we were constantly on the move. It was really beautiful and authentic experience, the cenote we went to was incredible. The food at buffet depends on your taste, I liked it, my husband didn't. Chichen Itza is incredible however if there's countless vendors . I don't understand why the vendors are allowed within the ruin site. It would be one thing to deal with them on the way in and out, but while we're trying to take in the sights and history they are trying to sell things. Elias is very knowledgeable and we enjoyed learning from him. Our driver was very hospitable. The van we were in was very uncomfortable but at least the air conditioner worked good. Unfortunately we got a flat on the way back back to hotels. The driver and their team worked hard to get us back on the road to the best they could. We were told no back packs could be brought in but there were people everywhere with them. There are restrooms and drinks available at the site inside and out. Theres alot of conflicting info about what is allowed or not. They ran out of umbrellas right when we decided we were going to, definitely would be worth the $5. So, bring water shoes for cenote, theres lots of steps to get down there. Hats and or umbrella for ruins. I really enjoyed seeing Valladolid short visit there but enjoyed the sights and coconut sorbet 🫶 So in conclusion, we had an amazing day, but its alot of moving due to logistics. All the guides and drivers were fantastic. Overall great day🙌
via Viator
Chichen Itza
I got exactly what I booked. No more, but no less. Probably not again. The trip was booked in English, was also done as far as Chichén Itza, but then there was a guide who admitted after about 30 minutes the English language was not so powerful. No matter how , standing in the blazing sun for 40 minutes was a challenge. The whole lap kept pulling out. The plan was one hour of free time, but unfortunately the hour was only 30 minutes. Of course, this is not much time to visit the whole area, so man runs around the pyramid in walking distance to see all 4 sides. The sun does the rest.
Response from the operator: Hallo Manfred, Vielen Dank, dass Sie Ihre Erfahrung geteilt haben. Es tut uns leid, dass die Zeit in Chichén Itzá und die Sprachbarriere Ihren Ausflug beeinträchtigt haben. Wir nehmen Ihr Feedback sehr ernst und werden mit unserem Team daran arbeiten, die Zeitplanung und die englischsprachige Betreuung der Guides zu verbessern. Wir hoffen, Sie geben uns in Zukunft eine weitere Chance, Ihnen ein angenehmeres und vollständigeres Erlebnis zu bieten.
via Viator (translated)
Could Have Been Much Better
The trip started well, on time. About an hour into our 3 hour drive the back of the bus got very warm. Turns out the air conditioning broke during our drive. We continued the drive, then they ordered a new bus. The bus did not arrive in time for us to leave so we had to drive another half hour in the bus. Everyone was sweating and getting dehydrated even before we got to the Chichen Itza which was 110 degrees. Someone asked the guide if they had water and she said no which was not true as we saw a cooler filled with water under the bus. One of our family members got sick that night from dehydration. I truly believe that would not have happened if the bus would have had air. We brought 10 bottles of water and bought an additional 3. Had the air not broke, the excursion would have been much better. I wish the company would have tried to make it better by giving us water or refunding part of the cost.
via Viator
Chitchen Itza
Our tour guide Simon was really welcoming and friendly. He explained everything we needed to know and more. I recommend this tour for anyone that wants to know about the history of the Miyans and take a few swims in Cenotes and eat authentic Mexican food. Great Job Simon!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your recommendation, we are glad to know that you enjoyed your activities with Simon your guide (we will send him your comments), but above all it is nice to see that you enjoyed the Mayan culture. Thank you very much for your preference
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $20 to $35
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Top Travel Connection, who run 8 experiences we rank across 4 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 47.7.
See everything Top Travel Connection runsWhy this scores 49
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Punta Sam.
How much does Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera cost?
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Prices start at $20 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Punta Sam usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera take?
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Plan for about 12 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 Punta Sam is not rushed.
Is Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 49 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.4/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Punta Sam, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera?
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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 Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera?
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Around 2 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 Punta Sam 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 Punta Sam and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera 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 Punta Sam 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 Punta Sam?
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On Outty we rank every Punta Sam experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Discover Mayan Magic: Chichén Itzá, Cenote, and Valladolid, Family Snorkeling Cancun with transportation, Hidden Cenote Swim & ATV Jungle Adventure with Transportation. 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 Punta Sam?
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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 Punta Sam?
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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 Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera?
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Included: Lunch; Admission to Mayan Cenote (Noolha or Chichikan); Quick visit to Valladolid; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Guided visit at Chichen Itza and free time to explore. Not included: Drinks and Box Lunch (upgrade to Plus tour to include them); Taxes for professional or GoPro cameras in Chichén Itzá; Life Jacket at Cenote required extra cash at entry; and Government fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 311 listed pickup locations in and around Punta Sam. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera 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 Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera?
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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 Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera?
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Across 5 reviews averaging 3.4 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Discover Chichen Itza from Cancun or Maya Riviera?
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There are 4 options to choose from, including PLUS TOUR FROM CANCUN, CLASSIC TOUR FROM RIVIERA MAYA, PLUS TOUR FROM RIVIERA MAYA, CLASSIC TOUR FROM CANCUN. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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