Chichen Itza, Suytun & Ik-Kil Cenotes Day Trip from Valladolid

Summary

Swim in Yucatan cenotes after Chichen Itza’s ancient wonders

You’ll walk ancient Mayan grounds at Chichen Itza with a local guide, swim in two very different cenotes—Suytun’s quiet magic and Ik-Kil’s wild energy—and end your day wandering colorful streets in Valladolid. Expect moments of awe, laughter with strangers, and cool water after hot stone paths.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the bus ride from Valladolid to feel so easy—maybe it was the sandwich (ham and cheese, nothing fancy) or maybe just the way our guide, Ana, kept pointing out little things you’d miss if you weren’t local. She handed out umbrellas before we even got to Chichen Itza. I thought that was overkill until I stepped off and felt the sun hit like a wall. The stones around El Castillo almost shimmered in the heat. Ana told us about the shadow snake during equinox—she made it sound like something her grandma would tell her as a kid. I tried to picture it but mostly just squinted at the steps and wondered how anyone could climb those back then.

After wandering through the ruins (and yes, taking too many photos), we drove out to Cenote Suytun. The air changed as soon as we got close—cooler, damp, that earthy mineral smell that sticks to your skin after swimming. There’s this stone platform right in the middle where everyone lines up for photos with that one shaft of light coming down. I felt a bit silly standing there but also kind of awed? The water was cold enough to make me gasp but in a good way. Some kids were laughing and splashing nearby; their dad kept trying to get them to look at the camera but they just wanted to float.

Ik-Kil came next—more crowded, more dramatic somehow with vines hanging down and voices echoing off the walls. Life jackets were mandatory (probably for good reason; it’s deep), and I remember feeling tiny floating under all that green. I lost track of time there—just drifting and watching sunlight flicker on the surface above me. Afterward, we dried off on warm stones and swapped stories with another couple from Mérida who swore by some taco place in town (still regret not writing down the name).

The last stop was Valladolid—a quick stroll really, but enough time to peek into a few shops and watch locals chatting outside pastel-painted houses. The day felt both long and weirdly short; I still think about that moment stepping into Suytun’s cold water after all that heat at Chichen Itza. If you’re looking for a day trip from Valladolid or Cusco (wait—not Cusco! Still mixing up my trips), this one packs in history, swimming, food, and those little surprises you don’t plan for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Chichen Itza and swim cenotes

• Guided tour of Chichen Itza ruins
• Free time to explore Chichen Itza
• Swim in Cenote Suytun
• Swim in Cenote Ik-Kil
• Visit Valladolid colonial city

Top questions

How long is the day trip to Chichen Itza from Valladolid?

The tour lasts a full day including stops at Chichen Itza, Suytun Cenote, Ik-Kil Cenote, and Valladolid.

Is lunch included on this tour?

A sandwich is provided on board along with drinks like water, soft drinks or beer.

Are entrance fees for Chichen Itza included?

Yes, admission fees and taxes for Chichen Itza are included in your booking.

Can I swim at both cenotes during the tour?

Yes, swimming is included at both Suytun Cenote and Ik-Kil Cenote.

Is transportation air-conditioned?

Yes, roundtrip transport is by air-conditioned vehicle.

Do I need to bring my own life jacket for Ik-Kil?

No, life jackets are provided at Ik-Kil Cenote.

Will there be a guide during the tour?

A bilingual local guide accompanies you throughout the trip.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

The tour includes pickup; check details when booking for exact locations covered.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip air-conditioned transport with pickup service, admission fees for Chichen Itza plus both Suytun and Ik-Kil cenotes (with life jackets), an umbrella for sun protection at the ruins, a sandwich lunch with drinks on board—water, soda or beer—and guidance from a bilingual local expert before returning via vibrant Valladolid.