Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid: Day Trip with Lunch & Pickup

Summary

From ancient Chichen Itza to cenote swims and Valladolid flavors

You’ll start your day with hotel pickup and a Yucatecan breakfast before exploring Chichen Itza at your own pace. Cool off swimming in Cenote Saamal’s clear waters, then wander Valladolid’s lively plaza for street food and colonial sights. Expect moments that linger—a taste here, a story there—even after you’ve left Yucatán behind.

What’s the experience like?

You know that weird quiet when the bus doors close and everyone’s still waking up? That’s how our day trip to Chichen Itza from Cancun started. I watched the sunrise flicker through palm trees as we rolled out of town—our guide, Ana, cracked a sleepy joke about “Mayan coffee” (turns out it’s just strong). The air smelled like wet earth after last night’s rain. We stopped at Yaaxkin restaurant first; I tried cochinita pibil for breakfast, which is… not what I usually eat before 9am, but it worked. The tortillas were warm and someone at the next table was laughing in Spanish—I wish I’d caught the joke.

Chichen Itza itself kind of sneaks up on you. One minute you’re buying your entrance ticket (not included—don’t forget cash), next thing you’re staring at El Castillo rising out of the grass. Ana pointed out some carvings on the ball court that I’d have missed—she said they tell stories of old games and sacrifices. There were crowds, sure, but if you walk a bit further it gets quieter. I touched one of the stone walls—cool and rough—and tried to imagine how loud it must’ve been centuries ago. Honestly, my photos don’t do it justice.

After sweating through the ruins, swimming in Cenote Saamal was a relief. The water’s colder than you expect—like a slap awake—and there’s this echoey sound when people jump in. Some local kids were showing off dives; I stuck to floating and watching sunlight move across the rocks above. My skin still smelled faintly of limestone hours later.

Last stop: Valladolid. The plaza was busy with families and vendors selling marquesitas (kind of like crispy crepes filled with cheese or Nutella). I bought one because Ana insisted—they’re messy but good. A group of dancers spun by in bright dresses while church bells rang somewhere behind us. We didn’t stay long enough for me to figure out what half the snacks were, but maybe that’s an excuse to come back someday.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Chichen Itza and Valladolid tour

• Pickup from hotel or meeting point
• Stop at Yaaxkin restaurant for lunch
• Visit Chichen Itza and buy entrance ticket
• Explore Chichen Itza at your own pace
• Swim and relax at Cenote Saamal
• Stop in Valladolid historic center
• Explore town and enjoy local treats

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included on this Chichen Itza tour?

Yes, round-trip transportation with hotel pickup is included.

Do I need to buy my own entrance ticket for Chichen Itza?

Yes, entrance tickets are not included; bring cash for purchase at the site.

Is lunch provided during this day trip?

A meal stop is included at Yaaxkin restaurant where you can enjoy traditional regional dishes.

Can we swim at Cenote Saamal during the tour?

Yes, there is time to swim and relax at Cenote Saamal as part of the itinerary.

How long do we spend in Valladolid?

You’ll have a break to explore Valladolid’s historic center and try local snacks or shop for crafts.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are allowed and service animals too.

What should I bring for this tour?

Bring cash for entrance fees, swimwear for the cenote, comfortable shoes, and sun protection.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation aboard panoramic buses with hotel pickup or meeting point options, a stop at Yaaxkin restaurant for regional dishes (meal included), time to explore Chichen Itza (entrance ticket not included), swimming at Cenote Saamal, and free time in Valladolid’s historic center before heading back home.