Chichen Itza, Cenote & Izamal: Early Access Small Group Day

Summary

Early Chichen Itza entry swim in cenote explore Izamal’s yellow town

You’ll start your day beating the crowds at Chichen Itza with a local guide who brings ancient stories to life. Cool off in a crystal-clear cenote before sharing Yucatecan dishes over lunch. Wander through Izamal’s golden streets and climb ancient steps—all with small group energy and plenty of time for your own discoveries.

What’s the experience like?

It started with a sleepy “buenos días” from our driver at 6am—honestly, I barely remember getting into the van. But by the time we rolled up to Chichen Itza, the sun was just starting to warm the stone and there were hardly any other groups around. Our guide, Jorge (who said his grandma still speaks Yucatec Maya), pointed out the shadow on El Castillo and told us about the serpent illusion—he even showed us where to clap for that weird echo. I tried it and felt a bit silly but also kind of awed? You could actually hear birds instead of just people chattering. Didn’t expect it to feel so quiet.

After wandering off for photos (and yes, I bought a carved jaguar whistle—couldn’t resist), we drove out to this cenote called Xcajum. The air changed as soon as we got close—cooler, with that earthy wet smell you get in caves. Slipping into the water was…well, shockingly cold at first, but after a minute it felt good on my skin after all that sun at Chichen Itza. There were some older locals swimming laps like it was nothing; meanwhile I was just floating and staring up at vines hanging down. Lunch after was buffet-style—lots of cochinita pibil, which Jorge said is a Yucatán classic. I may have gone back for seconds (don’t judge).

The last stop was Izamal—the “yellow town.” I’d seen photos but didn’t realize how much yellow there really is until you’re there and it’s everywhere: walls, doors, even some bikes leaning against stoops. We climbed up Kinich Kak Mo pyramid (not as tough as I thought) and looked out over rooftops while some kids below played soccer in the plaza. At the convent nearby, an old lady sold me a marquesita—a crispy crepe thing with cheese inside—and laughed when I tried to say thank you in Maya. Still not sure if I got it right.

I’m still thinking about that hush at Chichen Itza before everyone else arrived. If you want to see these places without feeling rushed or crowded—and maybe eat too many marquesitas—this day trip from Mérida is worth waking up early for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Chichen Itza, cenote, and Izamal visit

• Meet at the designated meeting points
• Travel to Chichen Itza archaeological zone
• Guided tour of Chichen Itza site
• Free time for photos and shopping
• Transfer to Xcajum cenote
• Swim in the cenote
• Enjoy buffet meal with regional dishes
• Travel to the town of Izamal
• Climb Kinich Kak Mo temple
• Visit Convent of San Antonio de Padua
• Return to Merida city
• Conclude tour at original meeting points

Top questions

How long does this Chichen Itza day trip from Mérida take?

The tour lasts a full day with early morning pickup and evening return to Mérida.

Is lunch included on this Chichen Itza & cenote tour?

Yes, lunch is included—a buffet featuring regional dishes plus one drink.

Do you get free time at Chichen Itza?

You’ll have about 40 minutes of free time after your guided tour to explore or take photos.

Are entrance fees included in the price?

No, entrance fees for Chichen Itza and the cenote are paid separately on site.

Is hotel pickup available?

The tour includes pickup from designated meeting points in Mérida.

Can vegetarians find food options during lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available at the buffet lunch.

How much walking or climbing is involved?

You’ll walk around archaeological sites and can climb Kinich Kak Mo pyramid if you wish; moderate fitness is helpful.

What’s included

Your day includes early morning pickup from Mérida meeting points, guided exploration of Chichen Itza with a certified local guide (plus free time), swimming access at Xcajum cenote (entry fee not included), an all-you-can-eat regional buffet lunch with one drink, and time to wander Izamal’s colorful streets before heading back in air-conditioned comfort.