Costa Maya: Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Day Trip with Port Pickup

Summary

Ancient temples, jungle sounds and stories at Chacchoben

You’ll step straight from your cruise into a small-group day trip to Chacchoben’s Mayan ruins, led by a local guide who brings old stones and jungle paths to life. Expect cool drinks in hand, stories you’ll remember later, and enough time to really look — or just listen to the quiet — before heading back to Costa Maya port.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to stand where the jungle almost swallowed a whole city? That’s what hit me first when we got off the van near Chacchoben — just this thick, green quiet, broken up by birds I couldn’t name. Our guide, Luis, waved us over with a grin and handed out cold bottles of water (needed that — it was sticky even before noon). He started pointing out trees with names I’d never heard. Some kind of citrus scent hung in the air, sharp and sweet. I tried to repeat the Mayan word for one plant — Li laughed at my accent and said I’d just called it “old chicken” instead. Not my best moment.

The walk through Chacchoben isn’t long but you do feel small under those big stone steps and the canopy above. Luis told us about the families who lived here centuries ago, how they’d climb these same stairs for ceremonies or shade. There were moments where we just stood listening — not much wind, only the sound of something moving in the brush (Luis joked about jaguars but I’m pretty sure he was teasing). The main pyramid looked almost soft in the late morning light; moss growing between stones, sunlight flickering through leaves. I touched one wall — cool and rough — and tried to imagine this place before anyone “found” it again. Weirdly moving.

On the way back to Costa Maya port, everyone was quieter than on the drive out. Maybe tired or maybe just thinking about what we’d seen. It’s not every day you get to wander ruins that sat hidden for so long, right? Anyway, we made it back in plenty of time for our ship (I double-checked my watch more than once). Still think about that smell of earth and citrus sometimes when things get too noisy at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Chacchoben Mayan ruins

• Arrive at Costa Maya port
• Travel by air-conditioned vehicle
• Explore ancient Mayan city ruins
• Learn about Mayan history and wildlife
• Return to Costa Maya port

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Costa Maya to Chacchoben?

The shore excursion lasts around 3.5 hours including transport from Costa Maya port.

Is pickup from Costa Maya cruise port included?

Yes, round-trip pickup and drop-off at Costa Maya port are included.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Bottled water and soda are included during your visit.

Is this Chacchoben tour suitable for kids or strollers?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Will there be an English-speaking guide at Chacchoben?

Yes, tours are led by local guides who speak both English and Spanish.

What should I bring on the Chacchoben day trip?

Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and your cruise details for booking.

Are entry fees for Chacchoben included?

All entrance fees and taxes are included in your booking price.

Is lunch provided on this excursion?

No lunch is included; drinks like water and soda are provided instead.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip pickup from Costa Maya port, all entrance fees to Chacchoben ruins, bottled water and soda throughout the tour, plus guidance from an English- or Spanish-speaking local guide before returning comfortably to your ship.