Chichen Itza, Coba & Ik Kil: Small Group Ruins Day Trip

Summary

Chichen Itza’s legends, Coba’s jungle climb & Ik Kil swim day

You’ll walk ancient stones at Chichen Itza with a local guide, cool off in Ik Kil cenote’s deep blue water, climb Coba’s pyramid for wild jungle views, and share a buffet lunch—all with hotel pickup included. Expect honest stories, real flavors, and moments that linger long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

“You can still see the old ball court marks,” our guide Luis said, and I leaned in closer to the stone. Chichen Itza is bigger than you think—hot air shimmering over Kukulcan’s pyramid, kids darting between columns. We’d barely finished our juice and cookies on the bus when we arrived (I forgot how early mornings smell like sunscreen and coffee). Luis explained how the sun lines up exactly on the steps during the equinox. I tried to picture it but mostly just felt small, you know?

The cenote at Ik Kil was next—honestly, I was nervous about jumping in. The water looked almost black from above, but once you’re down there it’s cool and blue and echoes with laughter. There were vines hanging down like something out of a movie. Lunch after swimming tasted extra good—maybe because I was starving or maybe because Yucatecan food always hits different. Someone at our table tried to pronounce “cochinita pibil” right; Li laughed when I butchered it.

Coba surprised me most. The climb up Nohoch Mul pyramid is no joke—my legs still remember it—but that view over the jungle? Misty green as far as you can see, birds calling somewhere below. We had time to wander alone for a bit; I ended up sitting on a stone just listening to the wind in the trees. On the way back, everyone was quiet or napping except Luis who told us stories about his grandmother’s village. That part stuck with me more than any photo.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Coba Ruins

• Tour main buildings at Chichen Itza
• Swim at Cenote Ik Kil
• Enjoy buffet lunch at restaurant
• Climb pyramid at Coba Ruins

Top questions

How long does this day trip to Chichen Itza and Coba take?

The tour lasts a full day including travel from your hotel, guided visits at both sites, swimming at Ik Kil cenote, lunch, and return transport.

Is hotel pickup included for this Chichen Itza & Coba tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Can you climb the pyramid at Coba ruins?

Yes, climbing Nohoch Mul pyramid at Coba is allowed on this tour.

Is swimming at Cenote Ik Kil part of the itinerary?

Yes, there is time to swim at Cenote Ik Kil during the tour.

Are entrance fees included for Chichen Itza and Coba?

Coba entrance fee is included; Chichen Itza requires an additional payment at pickup (USD 40 per adult).

What food is provided on this day trip?

A buffet lunch is included after swimming at Ik Kil; drinks are extra except one included beverage.

How big are the groups on this tour?

This is a small group tour for a more relaxed experience.

Are life jackets provided for swimming in Ik Kil cenote?

Yes, life jackets and lockers are included for guests swimming in Cenote Ik Kil.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by comfortable transport, guided tours of both Chichen Itza and Coba with time to explore solo too, entry fees (except Chichen Itza which is paid separately), breakfast snacks onboard, swimming at Cenote Ik Kil with life jacket and locker use covered, plus a buffet lunch with one drink before heading back in the evening.