How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza: Drive, Tour & Bus

The ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza are one of the most spectacular sights in Mexico, and there are a bunch of easy ways to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza on a day trip. This place was once one of the biggest and most important cities for the Mayan civilization.

You can get from Cancun to Chichen Itza by booking a tour , driving yourself in a rental car , or taking the ADO public bus. In this travel guide, I’ll explain how to use each of these transport options, as well as their pros and cons.

Overall, it’s not very complicated to visit this wonder of the world on a day trip from any of the tourist towns in the Yucatan peninsula, and it’s also pretty budget friendly, so you should definitely add it to your Mexico to do list!

Contents hide 1) Where To Stay In Cancun 2) Where is Chichen Itza? 3) How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza 4) • Join A Group Tour 5) • Book A Private Tour 6) • Rent A Car & Drive Yourself 7) • Take The ADO Public Bus 8) Cancun To Chichen Itza FAQ 9) More Cancun Tours 10) Cancun Hotels

Where To Stay In Cancun

Wyndham Alltra

Wyndham Alltra

Royal UNO

Hotel Bonampak

Emporio Cancun

Emporio Cancun

Where is Chichen Itza?

First things first — where is Chichen Itza located in Mexico?

Chichen Itza is located in the middle of the Mexican state of Yucatan, and the distance from Cancun to Chichen Itza is about 200 kilometers (125 miles), so it can be reached in 2 or 3 hours of driving.

The Chichen Itza ruins are located near the 16th century city of Valladolid, as well as many nice cenotes (natural sinkholes) to swim in, so there are lots of other great things to see in the area near the ruins.  

How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza

• join a group tour.

One of the cheapest and easiest ways to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza is by joining a group tour with other travelers, which you can book online or arrange with your Cancun hotel when you arrive in Mexico.

Chichen Itza tours are very popular, so there are many companies offering them every day of the week. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in the morning, driven by van or bus to Chichen Itza, and then given a guided tour of the ruins.

We used one of these tours ourselves and had a great experience. There are even early morning tours where you can beat the crowds and be one of the first people to enter the Chichen Itza ruins at the start of the day.

Oftentimes these group tours from Cancun to Chichen Itza also include other great sights of the Yucatan peninsula, like the Coba ruins, Tulum, Valladolid, and a swim at one or two of the many scenic cenotes in the area. These tours usually include a buffet lunch and hotel pickup / drop-off as well.

The only downside of a group tour is that you have a fixed itinerary, so you usually only get to spend about an hour or less in each location you visit on the tour. Personally, we could have stayed a bit longer, but for most people this is probably plenty of time. We tend to take a lot of photos.

In an arrangement like this, you’re also sharing the tour with a bunch of other travelers, although we didn’t mind that since Chichen Itza is going to be crowded anyway, and the bus ride is a chance to meet other travelers.

Book Now: Chichen Itza Cancun Group Tour

• Book A Private Tour

If you want to visit Chichen Itza with a tour but don’t like the idea of joining a big group, there are also private tours and small group tours from Cancun to Chichen Itza departing every day of the week.

This option is more expensive than a group tour, but if you have the budget then it can be a great way to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza! This way you’ll have a private driver and a multilingual tour guide to transport you to each location and explain the history of the archaeological sites in detail.

Some of these private tours also include the nearby Mayan ruins of Coba and Tulum, with buffet lunch and hotel pickup / drop-off from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, or other locations in the Riviera Maya.

Book Now: Chichen Itza Cancun Private Tour

• Rent A Car & Drive Yourself

Renting a car and driving yourself is another common way to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza, and it’s fairly easy as far as Mexico goes.

This arrangement gives you the most freedom to plan your schedule, and it can be very cost effective if you’re traveling with friends or family, that way you can split the cost.

The journey by car from Cancun to Chichen Itza (or vice versa) takes about 2.5 hours of driving, and the roads are in great condition. The distance is about 200 kilometers (125 miles). You can use this map for navigating to Chichen Itza, although you’ll come to the parking area a little bit before you reach the actual ruins.

You’ll be driving on the 180D highway, which is a toll road. At the time of writing, the toll is about 400 pesos (~$21 USD) each way, and it can only be paid in Mexican pesos (no credit cards or US dollars), so make sure you bring enough cash.

Along the way, you can also stop at other sites like the 16th century city of Valladolid, and the many beautiful cenotes near Chichen Itza.

Remember to book your rental car through a reputable company and take photos of the whole vehicle body to avoid any possible rental damage scams.

For Chichen Itza, keep in mind you will still need entrance tickets to visit, even if you drive yourself. It’s a good idea to book your Chichen Itza entrance tickets online in advance, that way you can skip the line when you get there and spend more time touring the ruins.

Book Now: Rental Cars In Cancun

How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza Drive Tour Bus

Welcome to Chichen Itza! A wonder of the ancient world.

• Take The ADO Public Bus

One of the cheapest ways to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza (especially as a solo traveler) is by taking the ADO bus, which departs daily from downtown Cancun at 8:45 AM and returns to Cancun at 4:30 PM.

This can be a good option if you’re a solo traveler on a budget and don’t mind a bit of extra hassle in arranging your own transportation rather than taking a tour. You can get to the Cancun bus station by taking a quick taxi or Uber.

The bus journey from Cancun to Chichen Itza (or vice versa) takes about 3 hours of driving and costs about 250 pesos ($13 USD) for a one way ticket. You can buy these tickets online at the ADO Bus website , or in person at the bus station in Mexico.

The ADO buses are clean, with air conditioning and bathrooms. Just be careful and keep a good eye on your bags and any valuables, because theft is common in the buses and at the bus terminal. You’ll also want to show up to the bus station early, because the check-in process on a busy day can be tedious and messy.

The main drawback of going to Chichen Itza by bus is that you’ll have 5 hours to walk around at the archaeological site, which may be more time than most people need. One workaround for this is to instead take the bus from Cancun to Valladolid, where more departures are available, and then take a colectivo (shared van) to Chichen Itza.

If you still have extra time left over, you could also hire a local taxi to take you to one of the cenotes near Valladolid while you’re at it! That way you get to see more places in the same amount of time.

For Chichen Itza, keep in mind you will still need entrance tickets to visit, even if you go without a tour. It’s a good idea to book your Chichen Itza entrance tickets online in advance, that way you can skip the line when you get there and spend more time touring the ruins.

Book Now: ADO Bus To Chichen Itza

How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza Drive Tour Bus

The Chichen Itza ruins were a highlight of our trip to Cancun, Mexico

Cancun To Chichen Itza FAQ

  • What is Chichen Itza? From 600 AD to 1200 AD, Chichen Itza was one of the biggest and most important cities for the Mayan civilization. The centerpiece of this archaeological park is the giant pyramid known as the Temple of Kukulcán (El Castillo). Even though you can’t climb it anymore, it’s still a spectacular wonder of the world!
  • Is Chichen Itza worth visiting? Yes! Chichen Itza is definitely worth visiting! It’s a wonder of the ancient world, and the main pyramid is really impressive. This was the highlight of our trip to Mexico.
  • What is the distance from Cancun to Chichen Itza? The road distance from Cancun to Chichen Itza is about 200 kilometers (125 miles).
  • How hard is it to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun? It’s easy to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun, regardless of which kind of transport you use (car, bus, or tour).
  • Can you fly to Chichen Itza? No, there’s not an airport at Chichen Itza. The closest airport is the Cancun International Airport (code: CUN). You can shop for international flights to Mexico at Skyscanner.
  • Is it safe to drive from Cancun to Chichen Itza? Yes, the general consensus is that it is safe to drive from Cancun to Chichen Itza. The roads are in great condition and it’s a fairly easy route. Yucatan is the safest state in the country of Mexico, and many tourists drive from Cancun to Chichen Itza every day without any issues.
  • What are the best things to see on the way from Cancun to Chichen Itza? There are lots of great things to stop and see while driving from Cancun to Chichen Itza. One of the best places to visit nearby is the 16th century city of Valladolid, and there are also many beautiful cenotes where you can go for a swim. Tour packages to Chichen Itza often include some of these sights as well. The tour we used , for example, included a visit to Cenote Saamal, which is a nice open air sinkhole where you can go swimming and take photos.
  • What is the best Chichen Itza tour? Here is a high rated Chichen Itza Cancun full day group tour with pickup from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or Riviera Maya. We used this tour ourselves, and had a great experience!

Valladolid Mexico

The 16th century city of Valladolid is a great place to stop and visit on the way to Chichen Itza

  • How can I go from Tulum or Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza? If you’re starting from Tulum or Playa Del Carmen, you have the same basic options as in Cancun. You can book a tour to Chichen Itza , rent a car and drive yourself, or take the ADO public bus.
  • How many people visit Chichen Itza? Chichen Itza got 2.6 million visitors in 2017, and daily numbers can be as high as 18,000 visitors. Needless to say, it’s a very popular tourist attraction, but there’s a lot of wide open space surrounding the ruins so it doesn’t feel as crowded as you might expect. If you want to beat the crowds, get there early in the morning, and try to avoid weekends and holidays. If you want to see some other epic Mayan ruins in Central America without as many people, check out Tikal Guatemala !
  • What is the entrance fee for Chichen Itza? At the time of writing, the total entrance fee for Chichen Itza is 538 Mexican pesos (~$26 USD) for adults, and kids under age 13 are free. Tour prices usually don’t include the entrance fee, so it’s something you pay yourself. You should be able to pay the fee with credit card, but it’s a good idea to bring enough cash just in case the machines aren’t working. Another thing to note is that there’s also a parking fee of 80 pesos (~$4 USD) if you self drive to Chichen Itza. I think the best thing to do is to book your Chichen Itza entrance tickets online in advance, that way you can skip the line when you get there and spend more time touring the ruins. Happy travels!

More Cancun Tours

Cancun hotels.

  • How To Get From Tulum To Chichen Itza (Mexico)

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Im also a world traveler. I visited Chichin Itza a few months ago while staying in Merida Mexico. I took a public bus from centro and traveled with the nationals. Very enjoyable and cheap.

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Thanks for sharing!

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Hi. You link to a tour to Chichen itza leads to a list of tours on the website. Which tour and company exactly did you use? I’ll just book with them as well. Thanks.

Hi. Here is the link for the tour we used. The name of the tour we used is ‘Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour.’ For some reason the direct link isn’t working, and instead it brings up a list of tours, but the first one on the list is the exact one we used. Thanks, enjoy!

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5 Ways To Get From Cancún to Chichén Itzá

cancun trip to chichen itza

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Chichén Itzá is one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico , and many travelers like to visit the site as a day trip from Cancún . This amazing Maya site is located in the state of Yucatan, about 120 miles west of Cancún, which is in the state of Quintana Roo. The amount of time it takes to get there depends on the method of travel you choose. Each option has advantages and disadvantages; the best one for you will depend on your budget and how important it is to you to have a say in the timing of your visit. Here are the five best ways to get from Cancun to Chichen Itzá. 

Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is fairly easy in comparison to some other places in Mexico, so renting a car can be a good and convenient option for independent travelers. The highway from Cancún to Chichén Itzá is quite flat and straight, it's in decent shape, and has good signage, and the drive typically takes about two hours. The advantage to this option is that you can make your own schedule and decide when and where to stop. Once at the site, if you like, you can hire a licensed guide to take you around and explain the history and background of the site and the Maya civilization . Guides are available for hire at the entrance where you purchase admission tickets for a fixed price. When looking for a car rental, keep in mind that the price quoted usually doesn't include insurance and the inclusion of this in the fee will raise the cost considerably. 

Join a Group Tour

The easiest way to get to Chichén Itzá from Cancún is by joining an organized group tour. You can easily book one of these tours online before your trip or at your hotel once you've arrived. A van or bus will pick you up at your hotel in the morning, and you'll travel the distance to Chichén Itzá along with your group and have a guided tour of the site. Most tours include a visit to a nearby cenote for a quick dip either before or after visiting the archaeological site, as well as a buffet lunch somewhere along the way. This is an easy and convenient way to get to Chichén Itzá, but you may be squeezed into a vehicle at its maximum capacity for the hours long drive, which may be made longer as the vehicle goes around to various hotels to pick up people in the morning and drop them off at the end of the day. You'll also arrive at the archaeological site at the time when it's most crowded.

Hire a Private Guide

Another option is to hire a private guide or driver to take you to Chichén Itzá. This is more costly than a group tour, but will allow you to set your own timetable and cut out the wait times involved with group travel. You can arrange for an early departure time to arrive at the archaeological site before the crowds, travel more comfortably, and visit other spots as you desire. If you get a good guide, he or she should provide information and background during transit times as well as giving you a tour of the site. Check Tripadvisor for recommendations for private guides.

Take the Bus

Independent travelers on a budget may prefer to get to Chichén Itzá by bus. The ADO bus company offers service from the ADO station in downtown Cancún to Chichén Itzá daily at 8:45 a.m. with a return bus departing at 4:30 p.m. from the archaeological site. According to the ADO website, the journey takes a little more than three hours. If those times don't work for you, another option is to first take the bus to the town of Valladolid , since there are many more departures throughout the day, and get another bus from there to Chichén Itzá. Bus tickets are available for purchase online through the ADO website , or in person at any ADO bus station in Mexico. 

Want to see amazing aerial views of Chichén Itzá and the surroundings as well as avoid long driving times? Possibly the most glamorous way to get to Chichén Itzá from Cancún is to fly. There's a small airport near Chichén Itzá and a few companies offer transportation by plane or helicopter. The flight takes a little under an hour each way, and you'll get to enjoy amazing views as you go.

Fly Tours Cancun has a fleet of three small airplanes and offers private and shared flights to Chichén Itza and a few other locations in the region. 

Cancun Helicopter offers a similar service with transportation in a Bell 206 helicopter.

You can travel to Chichén Itzá by renting a car, joining a tour group, hiring a private guide, flying, or taking a bus.

Chichén Itzá is located in the state of Yucatan, about 120 miles west of Cancún. The amount of time it takes to get there depends on the method of travel you choose.

Yes, the ADO bus company offers daily service from downtown Cancún to Chichén Itzá. The bus departs Cancun at 8:45 a.m., and the return bus leaves from Chichén Itzá at 4:30 p.m. The journey is about three hours each way.

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Chichen Itza Tour

$ 189 USD -30%

Google: 4.5 - 17,870 reviews

Min 8 years old

Best Price Guarantee

Small Groups

Visit the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Walk among the giant pyramid El Castillo, visit the sacred cenote, and explore the ancient Mayan city led by an expert bilingual tour guide. 

Explore one of the most mysterious and intriguing archaeological sites in the Mayan Riviera on a small-group tour. 

On the ride back, delight yourself with superb and specially prepared Traditional Yucatan food. 

Tour the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza

On this day trip to Chichen Itza the epic stories and the mysterious history will come to life as you listen to our bilingual tour guide weave an enticing narrative. Embark on a journey of exploration at the awe-inspiring ancient city of Chichen Itza - once the center of the Mayan empire in Central America.

Listen as our tour guides illuminate the rich history of the Mayans at the very location where it all happened. Walk among the giant pyramids and ancient ruins that dominate the grounds of Chichen Itza, and uncover the secrets of the ancient Mayan people through a guided tour of the archaeological sites.

At the end of the day, return to Cancun or Playa del Carmen with enough time to enjoy your evening's festivities. 

Out of the many tours to Chichen Itza offered in the region, none bring the expertise and awesome amenities provided by our very own day trips here at Cancun Adventures.

Enjoy this exclusive, Mayan ruins tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide. Travel in the comfort of a modern, air-conditioned van. Relax on the journey back to your hotel with a delicious lunch and friendly discussion of the day’s discoveries.

If you are looking for a comprehensive excursion to Chichen Itza that fits into a single day with time to spare, this is the perfect choice for you!

What Is Chichen Itza?

The ancient city of Chichen Itza was the most important capital city of the Mayans during the Classic Period (AD 600 - 750). Many of the city's ancient ruins still stand to this day - including the famed El Castillo or Temple of Kukulcán, a massive step pyramid that dominates the city's center.

The stunning Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza are located deep in the Yucatan jungle and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. In 2001, Chichen Itza was also named one of the "New 7 Wonders of the World."

Chichen Itza is one of the largest and most visited archaeological sites in Mexico and a trip to Chichen Itza should not be missed when visiting the Mayan Riviera!

Why Choose the Express Chichen Itza Tour From Cancun Adventures?

Here at Cancun Adventures, we are committed to helping travelers get the most out of all that Cancun has to offer. As Chichen Itza is by far one of the region's most breathtaking and culturally significant historical landmarks, we are proud to offer a comprehensive tour to help travelers like you experience this ancient city firsthand and learn about its rich history along the way. 

During the tour of Chichen Itza, you'll get the opportunity to take advantage of free time to stroll along the grounds to see the Ceremonial Walkway that leads to the Sacred Cenote. Marvel at the ancient pyramid, El Castillo, and explore the Temple of Warriors. Spend the day discovering the complexes of this rich archaeological site including the Great North Platform, the Osario Group and the Central Group.

The Great North Platform includes: 

  • The monuments of the Temple of Kukulcán (El Castillo)
  • Temple of Warriors 
  • The Great Ball Court

The Osario Group includes: 

  • The Osario Pyramid 
  • Temple of Xtoloc

The Central Group includes: 

  • The Caracol
  • Las Monjas 

What's great about our Chichen Itza excursion is that it packs a full trip to Chichen Itza into one day, all while giving you more than enough time to return home to your hotel or condo and enjoy the evening on your own. Transportation is provided both ways.

For the region's best tours to Chichen Itza from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, partner with our team at Cancun Adventures and book your Chichen Itza Tour today!

What's included in this experience

  • Round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned van from most hotels in Cancun and Playa del Carmen
  • Professional bilingual guides
  • Traditional lunch
  • Light snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Entrance to Chichen Itza

What do you need to know before you book

  • Minimum Age: 8 years. Child pricing applies to ages 8 to 11 years.
  • Not recommended for guests with limited mobility
  • Round-trip transportation is included from select hotels exclusively for our guests who book their tours at least 24 hours in advance
  • Please consider 2 to 5 hours of transportation for this tour. The actual time depends on your hotel's location.

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Biodegradable sunscreen and repellent
  • Extra money for souvenirs

Chichen Itza

  • Chichen Itza Tour Classic

Chichen Itza Tour Plus

  • Chichen Itza Tour Deluxe
  • Chichen Itza Tour Diamante

Private Chichen Itza Tour

Luxury chichen itza tour.

  • Premium Chichen Itza Tour
  • Chichen Itza Tickets
  • Chichen Itza Maps
  • Chichen Itza Ruins
  • Chichen Itza History
  • Chichen Itza Hotel
  • Mayan Calendar
  • Mayan Predictions

Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun

CHICHEN ITZA TOURS FROM CANCUN

Chichen itza tours.

Two friends girls walking in direction to Chichen Itza pyramid while sun shines behind the building

Chichen Itza Classic Tour

Take the Classic Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun . This Tour is perfect for a journey to visit the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza.

Chichen Itza Tour Express

Chichen Itza Express Tour

Take the Express Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun . This tour is for those who want to visit exclusively the archaeological site and return to their hotel early.

Chichen Itza Tour Plus

Enjoy the Chichen Itza Tour Plus from Cancun with some extra amenities like unlimited drinks onboard the bus.

Woman standing in front of Chichen Itza pyramid stairs looking up to the top

Chichen Itza Deluxe Tour

Get the Chichen Itza Deluxe Tour from Cancun ... it has all the benefits of the Plus tour, but in addition you get a Box lunch, extra drinks and more.

Chichen Itza Tour Diamante

Chichen Itza Diamante Tour

Get the Chichen Itza Diamante Tour from Cancun ... will provide you with all the perks of a Chichen Itza Tour Diamante, including drinks and other amenities.

Kukulkan head sculpture in front of Chichen Itza pyramid

With the Private Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun , enjoy Chichen Itza at your own pace. With this tour you can visit the Mayan Ruins whenever you want and how you want to… Go to Chichen Itza earlier than everyone, or later.

Chichen Itza pyramid free of tourists

With the Luxury Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun , enjoy the perks of traveling in Luxury. If you want to get in style to Chichen Itza, you must book this tour. Get to Chichen Itza from Cancun in a Suburban vehicle with refreshing amenities on the ride.

LET'S TRAVEL TO CANCUN

How to Get from Cancun to Chichen Itza: 6 Great Options

Chichen Itza Castillo

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Are you wondering how to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza? If so, this post is for you!

Learn all the different ways to reach one of the new seven wonders of the world from Cancun, including by public transportation, private shuttle, group or private tour, and more.

Ancient temples, sacred cenotes, and masks carved from stone await visitors to Chichén Itzá. This Mayan city dates back to the pre-Columbian era and offers intriguing insights into the life, beliefs, sciences, and culture of bygone peoples.

The Maya of old were master astronomers, mathematicians, engineers, and artists. They also played interesting athletic games on the great ball court.

CHICHEN ITZA

No trip to the Yucatán Peninsula would be complete without spending at least a few hours exploring this UNESCO world heritage site!

But how do you get there?

Let’s dive in!

In a rush? Check out the top-rated tour from Cancun to Chichen Itza!

Chichen Itza Castillo Mayan Ruins tours from Cancun

Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour

10.000 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews This full-day tou r is the top-rated tour on VIATOR with excellent reviews. It’s very cheap and includes a delicious local lunch, entrance to the cenote, a bilingual guide and hotel pick up and drop off. It doesn’t include the entrance to Chichen Itza which is 32 US

Where is Chichen Itza Located?

Chichen Itza is located in the state of Yucatan in eastern Mexico. It is roughly halfway between Mérida, Yucatan, and Cancún, Quintana Roo. In general, it takes 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Chichen Itza from Cancun and the rest of the Riviera Maya.

How to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza

You can get from Cancun to Chichen Itza by tour, rental car, private transportation, and ADO bus. Keep reading to learn about each option in depth and choose the one that suits you best.

1. Cancun To Chichen Itza by Tour

One of the most popular ways to get to Cancun from Chichen Itza is to go on a day tour of the ancient Mayan city. Tour options can vary from large group tours with jam-packed itineraries to private customizable tours which give you the freedom to choose your own schedule.

Top Chichen Itza tours from Cancun

➡️ chichen itza, cenote and valladolid all-inclusive tour.

  • 5 ⭐️ rating – over 10000 reviews
  • Duration: 12 hours

If you’re in the market for Chichen Itza tours from Cancun, this all-inclusive excursion to the ancient city could be a great choice.

See all the stops on this full-day tour, including visiting the Temple of Kukulkan at Chichen Itza, swimming in the cool waters of Saamal Cenote, and eating a mouth-watering Mexican buffet lunch. Next, you’ll visit Valladolid where you can learn some Spanish colonial history and wander scenic streets.

This tour includes hotel pickup and dropoff, transportation, a certified guide who speaks English and Spanish, entrance fees to the cenote, and a buffet meal. Beverages, the Chichen Itza entrance fee, lockers, life jackets, and tips are not included.

Tip: Don’t forget to pack your bathing suit and a water bottle!

What other clients say :

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Excellent day trip This is a long day trip of around twelve hours but well worth it. We had Osvaldo as our driver and Martin as our guide (Group 13) both were excellent. We started at Chichen Itza where Martin gave us a tour of the site with a lot on information about the history of the site and the Mayan people. We then visited Cenote with swimming and lunch. Then a short visit to Valladolid town square. Martin gave excellent information on the history and practical information for the day. Thoroughly recommend this tour. Andrew_S, Jan 2023

Chichen Itza Temple detail

➡️ Chichen Itza English Tour, Buffet Lunch, Cenote,Tequila tasting & Valladolid

  • 4.5 stars rating – Over 6,310 Reviews – Badge of Excellence
  • Duration 12 hours

Another wonderful tour to Chichen Itza from Cancun is this tour of Chichen Itza, Valladolid, and a cenote. It includes a buffet lunch and tequila tasting. Oh yeah!

Start your day off with hotel pickup followed by comfortable transportation to Chichen Itza, the most important city of the Mayan culture. Once you’re there, you’ll see all the most interesting structures such as El Castillo, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Sacred Cenote.

By then, the weather will have warmed up and you’ll be ready for a refreshing swim at a cenote. Enjoy a yummy lunch, tequila tasting, and a quick stop in the colonial city of Valladolid .

Finish the day with transport back to your hotel. Talk about a wonderful day trip!

What other clients say:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Wonderful Experience Wonderful experience for the family. We planned this trip over a year ago and knew that Chichen Itza must be a stop on our trip to Cancun. We were not disappointed. Chris_J, Jan 2023

➡️ Chichen Itza Express

Duration: Approx 8 hours

Let’s face it, adding all those extra stops can get exhausting, especially when you have the heat and the crowds to contend with. That’s where the Chichen Itza Express tour comes in! On this simple and straightforward tour, you’ll be transported from your hotel directly to the capital of the Mayan world.

During the drive, you’ll learn lots of interesting facts about Chichen Itza and the people who lived there.

Spend two hours exploring the ruins, first with a tour guide and then on your own. Eat your included box lunch whenever you get hungry.

Once your time is finished, you’ll hop back into the air-conditioned vehicle for the return trip to your hotel. You should be back in Cancún by 3 pm with time to relax and recharge. This is one of the best top-rated Chichen Itza tours available

➡️ Private Chichen Itza Tour

Duration: 10 hours

If you would like to visit Chichen Itza and have complete freedom over your itinerary, this tour may be just the thing.

Start the day with an early pickup from your hotel so you can beat the crowds with an 8 am arrival, well before standard group tours start pouring in. (Of course, you can also choose to go later in the day if you hate mornings).

Explore the ruins at your leisure and at your own pace. You can choose when you want to leave and what you want to do next. Want to eat lunch at a specific restaurant? You can do that! Visit an off-the-beaten-track cenote? Head to Cenote Ik Kil like most tourists? It’s up to you!

This tour includes an English-speaking driver, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a cooler with ice, water, and beer.

➡️ Luxury Private Chichen Itza Tour

If you want to travel to Chichen Itza in style, this Luxury Private Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun will do the job nicely. This tour is exactly like the private tour listed above, but with an added benefit: you’ll be transported in a comfy Suburban.

Suburbans may be gas-guzzlers, but man are they comfortable for long trips! Cushy seats, plenty of legroom, and great air conditioning await!

This private tour includes an English-speaking driver, water and beer, and a fully customizable itinerary. You have ten hours to spend as you will!

Pros and Cons of Chichen Itza tours from Cancun

Pros of chichen itza tours.

The advantage of going on a Chichen Itza tour is that you don’t have to worry about transportation. Many tours include pickup and drop-off from the hotel zone, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guided tour of the ancient Mayan civilization, and extra stops. 

Another benefit of going on a tour is that the price often includes entrance fees, bottled water, a buffet lunch, and a bilingual guide. An organized tour is undoubtedly the most convenient option for getting from Cancun to Chichen Itza.

Cons of Chichen Itza tour

One of the cons of going on a tour is that most of them are not customizable, unless you go private, of course. That means that you are herded along from one activity to another on a strict schedule.

While you’ll get to see the main structures at Chichen Itza (such as the iconic pyramid of El Castillo), you won’t be able to explore the complex fully or travel around at your own pace.

Some travelers also find the jam-packed itinerary exhausting. Many tours to Chichen Itza last 12 hours. If you prefer to take your time doing things, you may be better off skipping a tour or going with a private customizable tour option.

Now that you know the pros and cons of these kinds of excursions, here are the five top tours to the archaeological site of Chichen Itza.

Chichen Itza observatorio

2. Cancun to Chichen Itza by car rental

If you don’t like the idea of going on any of the available Chichen Itza tours from Cancun, you could choose to rent a car instead to visit the ancient ruins.

Although renting a car might sound scary or difficult to some travelers, it could be a great option. Read the pros and cons listed below to find out if a rental car would be a good choice for you.

Personally, this is my top favorite way to travel around Cancun and the entire Yucatan Peninsula, besides other parts of Mexico.

Pros and cons of a car rental

The main advantage of going to Chichen Itza by car rental is that you will have complete freedom over your time and itinerary.

It also gives you the freedom to spend several days in the region. If you are a history buff, you won’t be limited to a mere couple of hours at Chichen Itza.

You can hit off-the-beaten-track and less-touristy destinations, explore more in-depth, spend the night in Valladolid, and travel on quieter local roads if you choose. You can even find all the best cenotes.

The con of a car rental is that there are a few scams and pitfalls to be aware of before signing on the dotted line.

Although the roads to Chichen Itza from Cancun are in good shape, you’ll still need to drive in Mexico. Some travelers find that daunting, especially if they don’t speak the language.

Fortunately, all of these cons are manageable with the right information. Read on to find out everything you need to know to rent a car like a pro and drive in Mexico without incident.

colorful colonial town of Valladolid

Car Rental to Chichen Itza costs

A car rental to Chichen Itza can cost anywhere from $30 to $70 per day. The total price will vary depending on how many days you rent the car, the time of year, how old you are, and the make and model of the car you rent.

In case you don’t have your favorite car rental company, recommend booking with Discover Cars because it allows you to compare different rates from many companies so that you can decide which one is best for you.

Also, Discover Cars has more than 80.000 Reviews on Trust Pilot with an average of 4.5/5 ⭐️

cancun trip to chichen itza

They also offer insurance, it’s cheaper than car rentals but, of course, it has its faults as well. Make sure you read their policy before purchasing it.

Renting a car in Cancun

Discover Cars

Discover Cars is a great Car rental search platform to compare different car rental companies and choose the one that fits your needs. With more than 70000 Reviews and an average of 4.5/5 Score , Discover Cars helps you find the best Car Rental company in Cancun.

Car rental tips 

✔️ One of the most common problems people encounter when renting a car is hidden costs.

If you find what looks like a too-good-to-be-true daily rate, it IS too good-to be true. The price you see is likely the base rate minus mandatory liability insurance, taxes, etc.

✔️ Make sure you have enough of a credit limit on your credit cards in order to cover the security deposit.

✔️ Rent through Discover Cars to find the cheapest rates, and opt to pay a little more for full coverage insurance.

✔️ Take photos of the entire car–both inside and out–and make note of any damages, the fuel level, etc. Repeat the process when you return the car.

✔️ Re-fuel before returning the car to avoid extra charges.

Ik Kil Cenote

Driving tips

 ► Drive Defensively – Expect the unexpected when driving in Mexico. Keep a careful eye on other drivers and don’t expect them to follow traffic laws. Be alert to obstacles in the road such as large speed bumps, deep potholes, animals, children, and vendors.

 ► Be wary of bus drivers and taxis – bus and taxi drivers tend to be the most aggressive of all the drivers on the road. Keep your cool and let them pass you.

 ► Avoid driving at night –Drunk driving, poor lighting, and cars without headlights are common at night. Most accidents occur after dark.

 ► Be prepared –Have a working cell phone with an off-line maps program enabled, extra cash for emergencies, and emergency phone numbers handy.

 ► Prevent theft –Pay to leave your car in a secure parking lot rather than in the street.

Mot Mot Birds in Chichen Itza

3. From Cancun to Chichen Itza by private transportation

Another one of the best options for getting from Cancun to Chichén Itzá is by private transportation.

My favorite choice for a private transfer is Cancun Airport Transportation , which offers a wonderful trip to the most important city of the Mayan culture.

Much like an organized tour, this private option will give you access to an English-speaking driver and an air-conditioned vehicle during your journey to and from Chichen Itza.

You’ll also have the freedom to change the departure times and itinerary so you can get to the ruins first thing.

You can choose to add a trip to one or more of the natural sinkholes in the area and eat a delicious buffet lunch at a top-rated restaurant.

Pros of private transportation to Chichen Itza from Cancun

The pro of private transportation is that you won’t have to drive yourself or go through the hassle of renting a car. Your driver can fill you in on the rich history of the ruins, and facts about Mexico during the drive. You can also take pit stops whenever you wish.

This is probably the easiest way to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza! Save yourself the exhaustion of a long drive. Instead, you can enjoy the scenery or nap along the way!

Private transportation puts you in charge of the day, all the stops, and how long you spend at each beautiful place.

Cons of taking private transportation to Chichen Itza

The cons of taking private transportation are that it is one of the more expensive travel methods (though cheaper than the luxury option of traveling in a private plane!).

Chichen Itza Vendors

Take the ADO Bus to Chichen Itza

If you are on a budget or enjoy traveling local style, taking a public bus will get you to Chichén Itzá for the best price. I recommend traveling on an ADO bus.

ADO bus tickets are available online. You can choose which ADO bus station to leave from in Cancún, and travel backpacker style. 

Pros and cons of traveling by ADO buses

One of the main pros of traveling to Chichen Itza by bus is the price. This method can cost as little as 13 USD per person one way. The buses are safe, clean, reliable, and equipped with air-conditioning and bathrooms.

One of the cons is that the travel time will be longer. Because of the bus schedules, you won’t arrive at Chichen Itza until the afternoon. If you plan to return the same day, you won’t have much time to spend at the ruins. (Although spending the night nearby could be a nice option).

You will also need to factor in the extra costs of the entry fee and a local guide (if you choose to hire one) and hiring a guide on-site is more expensive than joining a guided tour with everything included.

Factor in plenty of time to check in at the bus station, as things can be a little bit disorganized.

Chichen Itza grand Cenote - Cancun to Chichen itza

Cancun to Chichen Itza FAQ

Is it safe to go to chichen itza from cancun.

It is considered relatively safe to go to the Chichen Itza ruins. Since they are one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations, security is usually quite good.

The local roads are usually in pretty good condition and are well-marked (especially if you take the toll roads). Toll roads are guarded by the federal police.

One thing to note once you reach “the heart of the Maya world” is that there are many many aggressive vendors on site. This can detract from your feelings of safety, but just be firm in your “no.”

Is visiting Chichen Itza worth it?

Yes! If you have any interest in Mayan history and culture, it is absolutely worth it to visit this famous archeological site.

Although you’ll have to contend with masses of people, sometimes aggressive vendors, and extreme heat, visiting Chichen Itza is an experience unlike any other.

If you find an expert and enthusiastic guide, the experience will be even more worth it. Some guides do an incredible job of explaining the history and beliefs of the ancients in an engaging manner.

This “city of the water sorcerers” covered 4 square miles, so there is plenty to discover and explore!

Chichen Itza Serpent

Can you go to Chichen Itza without a tour?

Absolutely! You can visit the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza without a tour. Some travelers prefer this method.

Although it requires a little more logistics on your end, the experience can end up being a lot more pleasant. You’ll have more freedom to decide how to spend your day.

First, choose your favorite method of getting from the Riviera Maya or Cancun to Chichen Itza on your own.

Pay your entrance fees online in advance so you don’t have to wait in line. Book a guide if you wish. Remember to pack sunscreen, plenty of water, snacks, and pesos.

Is Chichen Itza cash only?

Many blogs claim that the only way to pay at Chichen Itza is by cash. 

Technically, Chichen Itza is not cash only. However, there is no guarantee that you can pay the entrance fee with a foreign credit card. The card readers don’t always work, and the ATMs can be unreliable.

It is a good idea to go prepared to pay in cash if you need to. After all, you wouldn’t want to go all that way to see the Maya civilization of Chichen Itza and then have trouble getting in.

One of the best things to do is to pay for your entrance tickets online in advance.

How to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza: Final thoughts

As you can see, there are many great ways to visit the Chichen Itza ruins.

You can opt for one of the many excellent Chichen Itza tours from Cancun, rent a car, book private transportation, or travel by bus. All of these options have different advantages and disadvantages.

The important thing is that you are happy with your choice and have an awesome time at the ruins.

So what do you think? Which method will you choose to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza?

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Hey there! This is Isabella, the founder and author of this site. I have been living in Cancun for the past 13 years and although I have been roaming around Mexico, Cancun's spectacular turquoise waters and pristine beach draw me back to this popular Mexican beach destination. That is why I decided to start this blog, to show you all the beauty you can find in Cancun and share helpful travel tips to help you plan a fabulous vacation in Cancun!

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How to Get from Cancun to Chichen Itza 2024

  • by Nellie Huang

What’s the best way to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza? As a local expat, I will share the details on how to get to Chichen Itza.

If there’s one place you need to visit in the Yucatan Peninsula , it’s Chichen Itza. Immaculately preserved and perfectly restored, Chichen Itza is arguably the most famous archaeological site in Mexico. The pre-Hispanic city was one of the most important cities of its kind — and it’s easy to see why, from its impressive pyramids and intricate carvings.

To get to Chichen Itza, most people fly to Cancun Airport as it has regular flights from the US and other parts of the world. Cancun has the best beaches in Mexico and it’s got world-class resorts and archaeological sites in its proximity. [Read my Cancun travel guide here.]

In this post, I will explain the various ways on how to get to Chichen Itza, whether you’re planning to drive, catch a bus or join a tour.

how to get from cancun to chichen itza

Table of Contents

Where is Chichen Itza?

How far from cancun to chichen itza, mexico travel requirements, pros and cons of booking a day tour, pros and cons of renting a car from cancun, tips for renting a car from cancun airport, is it safe to drive from cancun to chichen itza, driving tips in mexico, 3. cancun to chichen itza, pros and cons of a cancun private transfer, 4. how to get from cancun to chichen itza, cancun to valladolid : ado bus schedule, is the ado bus safe, 6. cancun to valladolid by colectivo, by colectivo, is there uber around chichen itza, where to stay near chichen itza, things to know before visiting chichen itza, more info on mexico travel.

About a 2.5-hour drive west of Cancun , Chichen Itza is located inland in the state of Yucatan. The massive archaeological site is surrounded by thick jungle, without any hotels or towns nearby. Around 2.5 million people visit it each year, mostly on day tours from Cancun .

The nearest city to Chichen Itza is Valladolid, which is around a 40-minute drive away. It’s a small town, but I absolutely loved my time there. It feels like a Mayan town, with many locals dressed in huipil (embroidered blouses), despite its proximity to such a major attraction. There are plenty of things to do in Valladolid and around it: some of my favorite cenotes and archaeological sites are in the area.

To explore Chichen Itza without the crowds, I highly recommend staying overnight in Valladolid and heading to the archaeological site first thing in the morning. If you get there as it opens, you’ll be able to see it in its full glory — before the tour buses descend upon it.

map from cancun to chichen itza

Cancun is relatively big and spread out, so the amount of time it takes to get there depends on where in Cancun you’re coming from. Besides, current roadworks is causing a lot of traffic congestion on the Federal Highway so expect delays.

Here are the general driving distances and time from various parts of Cancun.

Driving distances and time from Cancun

  • Cancun Airport to Chichen Itza – 126 miles (200 km); 2.5 hours of driving.
  • Cancun Downtown to Chichen Itza – 119 miles (190 km); 2 hrs of driving.
  • Cancun Hotel Zone (beach) to Chichen Itza – 135 miles (217 km); 3 hours of drive time. 

how to get to chichen itza

How to Get to Chichen Itza

Cancun airport is the main gateway to Chichen Itza and it’s about a 2.5-hour drive away (or 126 miles/ 200 km away).

But the closest airport to Chichen Itza is in fact in Merida, about 140km away. I recommend visiting the charming colonial city of Merida if you’re interested in Mexican culture and history [Read my list of things to do in Merida .] Its airport however is smaller than Cancun Airport and mainly serves other airports in Mexico.

There are many ways to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza. Since I live near Cancun, I’ve traveled the route many times and recommended various options to friends who are visiting. In this article, I’ll share the pros and cons of each of them.

chichen itza how to get there

  • Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.
  • However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. These days, it is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Read my travel insurance guide.
  • Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

1. Cancun to Chichen Itza by Day Tour

Going on a day tour is perhaps the most popular way to visit Chichen Itza, as it’s easy and convenient. It’s a good option if you’re short on time, but I always recommend people to spend some time in Valladolid and visit Chichen Itza from there (so you can spend all day there and take your time).

Here are some recommended day tours from Cancun to Chichen Itza:

  • Chichen Itza & Yaxunah Early-Access Tour: This tour allows you to be the first at Chichen Itza and see it before others enter. It also includes a visit of an unexplored exclusive archeological site just for the group. Meet a local guide from the Mayan community and see the secrets of Yaxunah.
  • Chichen Itza Early Tour with Cenote Swim : This tour also offers an early visit to Chichen Itza, with a swim in a nearby cenote, and a buffet lunch. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cancun and a knowledgeable guide.
  • Chichen Itza, Cenote Suytun and Valladolid Tour : This tour offers a visit to Chichen Itza, a swim in the Insta-famous Cenote Suytun , and a stop in the charming town of Valladolid . This is the most complete tour but be prepared for a long and tiring day.
  • Chichen Itza Light and Sound Show Tour : This tour offers a visit to Chichen Itza during the day, followed by dinner and a light and sound show in the evening that illuminates the ruins with colorful lights and tells the story of the Mayan civilization.

chichen itza day tour

Visiting Chichen Itza on a day tour can save a lot of time and headaches. The tour company takes care of all the logistics and you just need to show up. But keep in mind you’ll be traveling with a big group and that can always be tricky.

Pros – Saves time and trouble planning. You’ll also get a guide; a good guide can make the ancient site truly come alive.

Cons – You’ll be herded around the historical site like kids and there’s little time to explore on your own. You won’t get the chance to explore Valladolid and the cenotes nearby.

2. Cancun to Chichen Itza by Car Rental

In my opinion, renting a car is the best way to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza, especially if you’re going to do a Yucatan road trip . It’s an easy and straightforward drive (on Hwy 180, with no deviations). Hiring a car in Mexico is relatively affordable; the average price ranges from 600-800 MXN (US$30-40) per day, including insurance and taxes.

I always use  DiscoverCars.com  to for car rentals worldwide. The search engine compares rental-prices from all the major companies and has consistently given me the cheaper rates and best services. Search for car rentals in Cancun here !

⚠️ Many bloggers accuse car rental companies in Mexico of scamming innocent travelers into buying insurance, as it’s not mandatory. It’s NOT true; you do need to have insurance when you rent a car in Mexico! It will cost more than what you were quoted online, but at least you’ll be covered in case of any accidents.

renting a car from cancun to chichen itza

If you can drive, I would definitely recommend renting a car as it’s the easiest way to get around the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s generally easy to drive in Mexico, and most signs are in Spanish and English. Just watch out for portholes and crazy drivers! Most rental companies accept drivers’ license from anywhere in the world, so you don’t need an international drivers’ license to drive in Cancun .

Pros – Allows you to travel at your leisure, make as many stops on the way as you want, and even make small detours to nearby areas.

Cons – Drivers in Mexico can be rather wreckless, just be aware of them. Parking at the archaeological site is limited, but just go early and you should have a spot.

  • Purchase a Personal Liability Insurance and a Car Insurance without fail Many bloggers tell you it's not mandatory to buy insurance, but that's no longer true.
  • Inspect and take good photos and videos of the car's interior and exterior. Focus on any visible dents, scratches, stain marks, rips in seat fabric, etc.
  • Keep a copy of all the rental agreements, booking information, and car papers.
  • In Mexico, a common scam among car rental companies is that they charge you with exorbitant fees on damages on the vehicle. The first time we rented a car here, we were told a safety device was missing from the car, which we didn't even remember having it in the first place (but sadly had no proof) and had to pay a fine of $50.
  • Always stay within the speed limit, even if you notice that nobody sticks to it! Tourists are often targeted by the police. We haven't encountered this ourselves, but several friends have been asked for bribes by the police because they were not following certain traffic rules.

Yes! Highway 180 is a 2-lane road that’s smooth and well maintained. It’s a toll road (toll fees are not expensive, around US$10 each way) and it rarely gets congested. Unlike the Federal Highway, there are no speed bumps or police checkpoints along the way. We have never had any issues driving this road.

  • In Mexico, you drive on the right side of the road.
  • Always keep your driving license, car rental papers, and proof of insurance handy.
  • The main road hazards are reckless drivers; they tend to go very fast, changing lanes as and when they like without signaling. Be wary of these drivers and keep calm!
  • When you see the signpost “ TOPE “, slow down and prepare for the bumps.
  • Avoid driving at night as you won’t be able to see the speed bumps and drivers go even faster than usual.

how far from cancun to chichen itza

by Private Transfer

If you can’t or don’t want to drive, the second best option is booking a private transfer from Cancun to Valladolid. I always book with Cancun Airport Transportations , as they are reliable, responsive, and provide door-to-door service from Cancun Airport to Valladolid.

Booking a private transfer  from Cancun to Valladolid not only saves you time, it’s also convenient and you won’t have to haggle with the drivers. It is expensive though, usually costing around US$300 one-way or US$555 round-trip . But if you’re traveling as a family or with a group of friends, you can split the cost!

You’ll have a bilingual driver who speaks English (and actually drives safely!), waits for you for arrivals even if your flight is delayed, and drives you in an air-conditioned car straight to your hotel in Valladolid. That said, a private transfer will only bring you to Valladolid and not Chichen Itza.

cancun to valladolid transportation

Pros –This is the fastest way to get from Cancun to Itza; you won’t need to waste time waiting for other passengers and your driver; you get picked up by a bilingual driver and in a nice vehicle.

Cons – It’s the most expensive transport option AND it only gets you to Valladolid. You will still need to find transport from Valladolid to Chichen Itza.

streets of tulum - how to get to tulum

Taking a bus is the cheapest option to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza. All major cities in Mexico are well-connected with an extensive bus network. These buses are clean, safe, comfortable, and air-conditioned.

ADO is Mexico’s largest bus company that has regular departures from Cancun to Valladolid and then onwards to Chichen Itza throughout the day. I’ve traveled in ADO buses many times and can safely say the bus company is top notch. They always leave on time and boarding is pretty well organized.

Pre-book your bus tickets here before arriving to Cancun to ensure availability or visit the ADO counter at the airport to get tickets for the next bus. Prices for bus tickets from Cancun to Valladolid range from 190 MXN (US$9.5) to 322 MXN (US$16) each way, and tickets from Valladolid to Chichen Itza cost around 150 MXN ($7.5) each way.

The first ADO bus from Cancun to Valladolid departs at 04:00 AM, and the last bus leaves at 9.30 PM. It takes around 1.5 hours. There’s only one bus from Valladolid to Chichen Itza at 10.27am each day.

*NOTE: There are  no direct buses from Cancun Airport to Valladolid . You must first get to the main ADO Cancun bus station in downtown, then head to Valladolid.

chichen itza how to get there

Yes! ADO Bus is generally very safe and secure. I’ve never heard of any theft, robbery, or crime taking place in the bus. Drivers also abide traffic rules (mostly).

You’ll be surprised by how well run and organized the bus company is. Just show your bus ticket on the phone before boarding. The driver scans your QR code, then you leave your baggage underneath the bus, and you can board! ADO buses are always air-conditioned and comfortable, with reclining seats and WiFi onboard.

The bus is definitely a cheap, safe, and comfortable way of traveling from Cancun to Chichen Itza. It’s really popular among locals and travelers.

ADO bus from cancun to valladolid

Colectivos are shared minibus/minivan-like vehicles that run on set routes in Mexico. They are a cheap transport, without any fixed schedules. For those on a shoestring budget, this would be the cheapest way to go. A colectivo ride from Cancun to Valladolid costs only about 40-60 MXN (US$2-3) per person.

This trip takes much longer than the ADO bus thou (up to 4 hours sometimes), as colectivos stop many times along the way to pick up/drop off passengers. Colectivos do not service Cancun Airport. To catch one, you either have to walk from your terminal to the Highway 307 roadside and flag one down.

I personally wouldn’t recommend catching a colectivo for such a long distance. Firstly, it is not a comfortable ride, and secondly, there’s little to no luggage space. The colectivos also make many stops in between, taking way too long to get there.

colectivo from cancun to valladolid

H ow to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

Once you get to Valladolid, Chichen Itza is just an easy 40-minute drive away. For those without a rental car, the fastest and most convenient way is to take a taxi. Official taxis usually charge around 500-600 pesos  ($25-30 USD) each way, which is pricey considering how near it is.

I suggest asking your hotel to arrange a taxi for you or pre-arrange it yourself through this link. You’ll need to arrange a time for the driver to come and pick you up for the way back.

taxi from cancun to chichen itza

Colectivos are a cheap and easy way to get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza. They start as early as 7:00am in the morning from Valladolid and run till later in evening – past 5:00pm. The last colectivo from Chichen Itza leaves around 5:30pm.

Just show up at the Valladolid colectivo stop and wait for the mini-van to get full, and you’re on your way! A colectivo ride takes about an hour. The vehicle will make multiple stops to drop locals, so that takes up some time.

The colectivo stop in Valladolid is on Calle 39, between Calle 46 and Calle 48. Here’s the exact address: C. 39 2-215, Centro, 97784 Valladolid Yucatan. Click  here  to find it on Google Maps.

The colectivo fare to Chichen Itza from Valladolid is 40 MXN ($2 approx) each way.  Bring some cash and pay the driver directly.

Uber works in Valladolid, and it is possible to find Uber drivers to get you from Valladolid to Chichen Itza, but it’s not easy. It’s best to use Uber a few times in Valladolid and get to know a driver then arrange it directly with him.

Uber does work in Cancun, but not at Cancun Airport. That said, it is possible to hail an Uber using the app from downtown Cancun. However, Uber drivers still face a lot of issues from the local taxi companies.

There are several hotels in the jungles surrounding Chichen Itza with a peaceful and magical setting. But remember if you stay here, you’ll be far from restaurants and conveniences. If you don’t have your own transport, I suggest staying in Valladolid to have easy access to the town attractions. Check out my Valladolid travel guide for hotel recommendations.

Meanwhile, here are the nearest hotels to Chichen Itza :

Mid Range: Hotel Okaan  

Set amid the lush jungle, this laidback hotel is 5 km from chichen Itza. With a gorgeous pool featuring a sunken sofa, the rustic yet chic hotel has spacious rooms with balconies with jungle views. Check the rates here.

Mid Range: Hotel Chichen Itza

This beautiful colonial hotel off Highway 180 is the nearest hotel from Chichen Itza. While slightly dated, the hotel has suites with pyramid views and thatch-roofed bungalows with mosquito nets and carved wood accents. Check rates here.

Luxury: Hacienda Chichen Resort

This eco-friendly resort is located about 5 minutes from Chichen Itza and offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The resort has a spa, yoga classes, and an organic restaurant. Check rates here.

cancun to chichen itza - hotel okaan

  • Opening times: The ruins are open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, but the busiest time to visit is usually between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
  • Beat the crowds: Try to arrive at the site as early as possible, ideally before it opens at 8:00 am. This way, you can explore the ruins before the crowds arrive, and the temperature is cooler.
  • Tour guides: You can choose to explore the ruins on your own, but hiring a tour guide can enhance your experience and provide valuable historical and cultural context.
  • Bring bug spray: Mosquitoes and other insects are common in the Yucatan Peninsula, so be sure to bring insect repellent to protect yourself.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: The site is quite large, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that can handle uneven surfaces and stairs.
  • Visit nearby cenotes: There are several cenotes (natural swimming holes) located near Chichen Itza, Ik Kil is the most popular, and just 3km away. Theyt are a great way to cool off and relax after exploring the ruins. Bring your swimsuit and snorkeling mask!
  • Stay for the evening light show: Chichen Itza hosts a nightly light show that illuminates the ruins with colorful lights and tells the story of the Mayan civilization. It’s a unique and memorable experience that is worth staying for. Tickets are available from the booth from 3 to 8pm.

cancun to chichen itza - night show

I hope this article has helped you decide on how you’re getting from Cancun to Tulum. Let me know if you have any questions in the comment section below.

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

  • Cenote Suytun: My Complete Guide
  • Palenque Ruins: My Guide to Chiapas’ Pyramids
  • 15 Things to Do in Cozumel
  • How to Get from Cancun to Cozumel
  • How to Get from Cancun to Tulum
  • How to Get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres
  • Tulum Travel Guide
  • 30 Cool Things to Do in Tulum
  • Where to Stay in Tulum
  • 30 Fun Things to Do in Cancun

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

Related Posts:

Pueblos Mágicos: 30 Magic Towns in Mexico Worth Visiting 2024

4 thoughts on “How to Get from Cancun to Chichen Itza 2024”

cancun trip to chichen itza

Hi! All the info you provided is really useful! Thank you. I do have a question though: is there a bus that goes straight from Cancun to Chichen ItzA? because I read above that you mentioned buses from Cancun to Valladolid, and then you need to take a different transport to connect with Chichen Itza…so, aren´t there any buses that go straight from Cancun to Chichen Itza?

cancun trip to chichen itza

hi Marlene, thanks for your question! No, there are no buses that go straight from Cancun to Chichen Itza. Chichen Itza is located in the jungle, the nearest town to it is Valladolid. There are many plenty of tours that will bring you straight there, you’ll see all the options in my article above. Hope this helps! 🙂

cancun trip to chichen itza

Hi Nellie, wondering if the prices you’ve listed for car rental and the toll road are updated? I’m finding cars are way more expensive to rent and the toll road is now MXN $500-600 one way? Thanks

hi Riane, the prices are from 2023. We have our own car in Playa del Carmen, and have also rented cars a few times in different parts of Mexico. Keep in mind that you often have to pay more when you pick up your car rental, for insurance and other extras. The toll prices were from the last time we went in early 2023, they may have gone up already.

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THE BEST Day Trips from Cancun to Chichen Itza

Day trips from cancun to chichen itza.

  • Cancun to Isla Mujeres
  • Cancun to Chichen Itza
  • Cancun to Tulum
  • Cancun to Coba
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

cancun trip to chichen itza

1. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour

cancun trip to chichen itza

2. Chichen Itza, Cenote, Valladolid, Tequila & Lunch

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3. Chichen Itza Early Access, Cenote, Tequila & Lunch

cancun trip to chichen itza

4. Chichen Itza DLux Tour Cenote Xcajum All-inclusive No hidden fees

cancun trip to chichen itza

5. Chichén Itzá Tour with Hubiku Cenote, Valladolid & Lunch

cancun trip to chichen itza

6. Chichen Itza Private Tour plus Cenote and Valladolid Visit

cancun trip to chichen itza

7. Full-Day Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Private Tour with Lunch

cancun trip to chichen itza

8. Chichén Itzá Marvels Day Trip:Cenote Oxman & Valladolid Adventure

cancun trip to chichen itza

9. Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote From Cancun

cancun trip to chichen itza

10. Chichen Itza Private Tour from Cancun

cancun trip to chichen itza

11. Private Chichen Itza Tour

cancun trip to chichen itza

12. Chichén Itzá de Lux Tour No extra charges

cancun trip to chichen itza

13. Visit to Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote and Valladolid with Lunch from Cancun

cancun trip to chichen itza

14. Chichen Itza Deluxe, 2 Cenotes, Lunch, Beverages and Valladolid tour.

cancun trip to chichen itza

15. Chichen Itza Classic Tour

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16. Chichen Itza LDS tour all inclusive from Cancun (Private)

cancun trip to chichen itza

17. Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote Swim, Lunch & Valladolid Visit

cancun trip to chichen itza

18. Chichen Itza VIP + Valladolid +Cenote (Full Day Experience)

cancun trip to chichen itza

19. Chichen Itza with Cenote and Valladolid

cancun trip to chichen itza

20. Full Day Tour to Chichen Itza and Mayan Cenotes from Cancun

cancun trip to chichen itza

21. CHICHEN ITZA PLUS TOUR, Cenote, Buffet Valladolid(No hidden fees)

cancun trip to chichen itza

22. Chichen Itza Sunrise and Cenote Ik Kil from Cancun

cancun trip to chichen itza

23. Chichen Itza Tour with Cenote Food and Transfer from Cancun

cancun trip to chichen itza

24. Chichen Itza and Cenote tours (all inclusive package)

cancun trip to chichen itza

25. Chichen Itza, Cenote Sagrado and Valladolid from Cancun

cancun trip to chichen itza

26. Chichen-Itza, Ik-Kil cenote, Valladolid All Day Tour with Lunch

cancun trip to chichen itza

27. LDS Tour to Chichen Itza + Cenote

cancun trip to chichen itza

28. CHICHEN ITZA REGULAR, Cenote, Buffet, Valladolid (No hidden fees)

cancun trip to chichen itza

29. Chichen Itza & EkBalam Ruins with Cenote Swimming from Cancun

cancun trip to chichen itza

30. Chichén Itzá Premier Tour with Hubiku Cenote & Valladolid

What travelers are saying.

  • Daniel A 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Thank you George the bus driver 2026 and Miriam the tour guide The whole trip was great!! Worth it thank you!! Bus seats recline and it's cold which was very nice. The history of the Mayan culture was great. Food was good at the cenote the swimming the in cenote was so refreshing! Read more Review of: Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour Written March 11, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

kristin112018

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The Internet Says These Are The Best Family-Friendly Things To Do In Cancun

F amily vacations are the stuff dreams are made of, literally. After all, a great trip can cement memories in your kids' minds for years, if not decades. That's why choosing the best destination for your next holiday is essential — no wonder you've decided on a trip to Cancun. This popular destination is packed with family-friendly things to do. Whether your brood wants to whoosh down a water slide, soar above trees on a zipline, or soak up some rays on a soft beach, they'll do just that and so much more in Cancun. You won't hear the dreaded "I'm bored" mantras while on vacation here. 

The fact that Cancun is home to some of the area's best all-inclusive resorts only adds to its allure for families with kids of all ages. Many of these accommodations are filled with attractions like water parks, lazy rivers, and entertainment, with the kid-approved bonus of access to all the food and drinks they can handle. Don't have much time off work? No worries, Cancun is an easy place to get to for a weekend trip, and you'll have plenty to keep you occupied. We studied multiple articles written by family travel experts, researched each attraction, and sifted through online reviews to ensure the places on this list are the best family-friendly things to do in Cancun. All you have to do is have fun.

Read more: 15 Most Breathtaking Destinations To Swim With Turtles, According To Travelers

Is It Safe To Visit Cancun?

While the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Mexico due to crime, which recommends tourists "exercise increased caution," tourists should be safe while visiting Cancun. The caveat? Travelers must always be aware of their surroundings while on holiday in Quintana Roo, the state that contains this popular tourist haven. According to the Department of State, "criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations." They recommend staying away from downtown Cancun at night, limiting walks to well-lit pedestrian and tourist areas, and avoiding potentially dangerous areas.

That said, Cancun is generally considered to be one of the safer places to visit in the country. Cancun is safer than four of the largest cities in the U.S. – Baltimore, New Orleans, St. Louis, and Detroit. This site also claims that violence tends to occur outside the resorts. Ensure your family's safety in Cancun by staying on the resort grounds, taking guided trips to tourist attractions, and avoiding travel at night.

Take A Day Trip To Isla Mujeres

It's not hard to see the allure of Isla Mujeres. A quick 35-minute ferry ride from Cancun, this idyllic isle is home to beautiful beaches, Mayan ruins, a turtle farm, and the MUSA Underwater Sculpture Museum (more on that later). Another bonus for families traveling with young children: The beaches are fronted by calm, shallow waters, which make for safe swimming.

Be sure to visit Playa Norte during your day trip to Isla Mujeres. One of the best beaches in the Caribbean , you'll find this pristine spot on the north end of the island.  It lies a mere 0.4 miles from the ferry. That means your kids won't have to complain about their little legs getting tired on the walk to the sand. Plus, it's close to the downtown area's restaurants, bars, and shops. If your kids are confident swimmers, book a snorkeling tour. Tip: Ferries depart from Puerto Juarez every half hour from 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and every hour after.

Snorkel With Rays At Xcaret Park

If you're vying for a parent of the year award, take your kids to Xcaret Park. Pronounced esh-car-et, this is one of the Riviera Maya's most popular attractions for good reason — it's packed with family-friendly things to do. Part eco-archeological park, part theme park, part water park, there are so many activities on offer that you'll want to arrive early and leave late for your best chance at trying them all. From swimming in underground rivers and exploring Mayan ruins to watching cultural performances, there are over 50 activities to choose from. 

Add on an Adventure Kids package for even more excitement. Children can feed sting rays and snorkel with them in a natural lagoon. Don't worry, it's safe! This half-hour program is designed for kids between 4 and 10 years of age. Over 48,000 people have reviewed this impressive park on Tripadvisor , giving it a 4.5-star rating for its fun children's zone, interesting shows, underwater river, and butterfly area. They do mention the high prices, which can be well over $120 per person for those over 12 and over and around $90 for kids between 5 and 11, depending on which package you choose. Kids 4 and under get in free.

Explore The History At El Rey Ruins

Unlike Chichen Itza, which takes over two hours to reach (more on that later), the El Rey ruins are super easy to get to. They're located right in Cancun's Hotel Zone. In other words, you won't have to drag the kids away from the beach for an entire day — just half an hour should be enough to explore the historic ruins and the attraction's namesake, a sculpture that likely depicts a king.

Dating to the Post Classic era (between 1200 and 1450 A.D.), the ruins are intriguing. While you might be wowed by the history that lurks within these ancient walls, your kids may be more interested in the ruins' quick-footed residents, iguanas. The grounds are small, and there's no shade, so be sure your family members wear sunblock and hats. If the kids still have energy to spare, visit the nearby Mayan Museum of Cancun to learn more about the Mayan past and culture.

Board A Captain Hook Dinner Cruise

Ahoy matey, is your crew hungry? Book a journey on the Captain Hook Dinner Cruise and set sail on the high seas for a tasty meal and show that your kids arrr (sorry, we had to) bound to enjoy. Be on board 45 minutes before the ship departs, which is 6:30 p.m. every day, for an unforgettable evening of fun. Cannon fire signals your departure, while a full-on "battle" will erupt later in the evening. When the captain says, "Enemy ship aside," prepare to see "pirates" jumping from one ship to another in an attempt to protect their vessel and its passengers. 

They're armed with swords and guns to make things feel even more realistic. Dinner, dancing, games, and contests take place throughout the evening, with plenty of seafaring excitement for pirate lovers. Your kids are sure to be amazed. Are you worried it will feel too hokey? It could, but Tripadvisor  reviewers claim this cruise is "hilarious fun," "a great overall experience," and they think the "engagement from the performers was great." 

Take A Guided Tour To Chichén Itzá

Though technically not in the city (it lies 122 miles west), touring Mayan ruins like Chichén Itzá tops many lists of the best things to do in Cancun . This iconic place to visit is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Expect crowds during your trip, as this top tourist attraction receives more than 2.5 million visitors annually. Since this isn't the quickest place to get to (the ride will take about two hours and 15 minutes), we suggest booking a guided tour and bringing snacks and water to keep kids placated on the long drive. 

Many resorts will offer tour packages, but there are plenty of organized trips to choose from if you're hoping to book an excursion on your own. Some even include lunch and a swim in a nearby cenote. Be warned, these tours last all day, so if your kids aren't up for a lengthy adventure, you might want to save this for a romantic couples' trip in the future. Viator offers an air-conditioned VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour, which will travel there in the morning "so that you can avoid the crowds and heat that come later in the day," the website notes. It stops at a cenote for a swim and in the town of Valladolid for lunch and a wander.

Ride The Lazy River At Xel-Há

To explore the attractions at Xel-Há , you're going to want to carve out a whole day. A 200-acre fun zone, this natural water park bursts with activities the whole family will love. That said, pack lots of sunblock (biodegradable only, please), arrive early, and get ready for a day filled with adventure. From snorkeling to riding an inner tube along a lazy river to ziplining into the water, there's a seemingly endless array of things to do. Trust us, no one's getting bored here. 

The park is massive, which means you won't have time to do everything. Therefore, we suggest looking at a map before you visit to pick and choose your must-try activities. Here, you'll find a cenote to swim in, cliffs to jump from, an overwater ropes course (if you slip, you're getting wet), a rope swing, jungle trails, and so much more.

Children's World is a must-visit for those with little ones in tow (only kids up to 12 are allowed inside). They, too, can enjoy adventurous experiences on water slides, a crocodile tunnel, a playground, and rope climbing. Reviewers on Tripadvisor say Xel-Há is "great for all ages," "as nice as a tourist attraction can get," and "an absolute delight." Another wrote, "This was the best part of our trip to Riviera Maya."

Explore The Underwater World At MUSA

A trip to MUSA , Cancun's underwater museum, is a magical and unforgettable experience perfect for families of older kids (tweens and teens). One of the most popular attractions in the region, it may not be as much fun for younger children, but older ones will surely find this location fascinating. Located off the coast of Isla Mujeres, this unique museum is best enjoyed while snorkeling or scuba diving, although glass-bottom boat tours are also available.

Ultimately a conservation project, MUSA has 12 underwater galleries filled with about 500 statues. Book a tour to explore this majestic spot, but depending on which company you choose, the minimum age for snorkeling participants could be as young as 8. That said, the snorkeling tour at the gallery of Punta Nizuc Departing from Cancun booked on MUSA's site has a minimum age of 4.

Jump Into A Cenote

It's hard to describe the otherworldly feeling you get from jumping into a cenote (i.e., a water-filled natural sinkhole). Also described as "deep water wells," these magical spots are often found at the bottom of underground caves, and swimming in them is both a relaxing and invigorating experience your kids will remember for years. Thousands of cenotes can be found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, meaning there are plenty to choose from if you're hoping to enjoy this memorable experience. The best way to find them is by booking a guided tour. 

However, some cenotes are sacred to the Mayan people, and some are off-limits to tourists. Open cenotes have been around for longer, their vault or cavern having collapsed years before, leaving a pool-like area open to the air. Cancun Adventures  has 3.5-hour cenote and snorkeling tours available for $70 for ages 12 and over and $62 for kids 8-11. You'll get to swim in the calm waters, snorkel amongst interesting sea creatures, and explore caves and caverns. 

Hit The Beach

You can't visit Cancun without spending at least one day at the beach — this is what the area is best known for, after all. With so many to choose from, it can be tough to decide where to sprawl your towel. Playa Tortugas is always a good bet for families. Although it can get crowded (this is where you'll find ferries that depart for Isla Mujeres), the beach is large, which means there is plenty of space for people to stretch out. Plus, the water is calm, and there are ample facilities (like umbrella and chair rentals and restaurants).

Playa Delfine is well-liked by reviewers on Tripadvisor . They praise its ample shaded areas, showers and bathrooms, and free public umbrellas. While beautiful, be warned that the waves here can get quite big. Playa Las Perlas, on the other hand, is a local favorite due to its protected waters, which are great for kids who want to swim. Reviewers also enjoy being able to see coral reefs from shore due to the clear water.

Walk With Crocodiles At Croco Cun Zoo

You'll only need about an hour to explore Croco Cun Zoo , but you'll learn so much about the attraction's residents that you'll feel as if you've been there for days. Set 24 miles southwest of Cancun's Hotel Zone, the drive to Croco Cun Zoo will take about 36 minutes. All tours are guided by experienced staff members who take their job as animal conservationists seriously. The guides lead tourists around the small zoo, teaching them about the animals who call this area home.

While you walk, look up — spider monkeys roam free in this attraction, and you never know when one will jump from tree to tree above your head. Visitors will also have a chance to feed, touch, and even hold some of the animals, with the bravest of tourists being rewarded with a walk through a crocodile enclosure. Reviewers on Tripadvisor rave about the entire experience, noting the zoo's "knowledgeable and friendly" staff. Many recommend visiting early in the morning to experience the zoo with fewer crowds.

Play For Hours At All Ritmo Water Park

The waterpark at All Ritmo Cancun Resort & Waterpark is a must-visit for families with young and energetic kids. The Tree House is where you'll find the classic giant dumping water bucket as well as waterslides and waterfalls. There's also mini golf, a playground, tennis courts, a beach, and a basketball court on the resort's grounds. And if you're so inclined, you could book a room for the night. An ideal place for those under 12, you'll probably want to opt for the more adventurous Ventura Park (which we mention below) if you're traveling with older tweens or teens. 

Reviewers on Tripadvisor commend the ample activities offered, including trivia and other competitions that take place throughout the day. "This is our 3rd time at this resort and our kids had a great time as always. Great family vacation!" one traveler raved. While some said the resort rooms were basic, and the park can get pretty crowded, many liked the ability to be able to sit close to the action, watching their kids from the sidelines while enjoying a cocktail. Tip: Guests of the All Ritmo gain access to the waterpark for free, which otherwise costs $53 for adults and $27 for kids for a day pass.

Enjoy Fun Activities At Ventura Park

Meals and drinks are included in your visit to Ventura Park, which is a good thing since getting the kids to leave this adventure zone is going to be a struggle. With over 30 attractions on offer, there are enough exciting things to do that you'll likely be here for hours. The park is divided into sections based on various activities, which makes it easier to navigate. Wet'n Wild is where you'll find the water park; Aaah! Ventura houses the ziplines and other aerial activities; Grand Prix boasts go-karts; and Fun World is where smaller kids can run wild on the playground.

Day passes are sold based on the sections you'd like to visit, with the Platinum Pass offering unlimited soft ice cream (they had us at unlimited). No matter which pass you choose, bring a bathing suit and towels, as access to Wet'n Wild is included in all. You'll also need to bring cash, as lockers, photos, and inner tube rentals cost extra. The park is located about 30 minutes from the Hotel Zone, so you'll have to arrange a ride for your visit.

Attend A Concert At Parque De Las Palapas

One of the best things to do in Parque de las Palapas is eat street food. This buzzy downtown spot is filled with food vendors of all kinds, making it a haven for lovers of Mexican cuisine. The park, which lies just over 6.5 miles west of the Hotel Zone, is home to free concerts, dance shows, and street performers. There is also a large collection of shops selling everything from sunglasses to T-shirts to touristy kitsch. Friday nights are the best time to visit for live music, which begins at 7:30 p.m.  

Reviewers of this park on Tripadvisor have enjoyed the cheap prices and "great food and entertainment." Many of them also commented on the fantastic churros, so try one (or three) while you're there. While many consider this a safe tourist destination, the U.S. Department of State recommends avoiding downtown Cancun at night. If you do go, be vigilant. Otherwise, the Parque is open 24 hours, making it easy to let the kids run around the playground and grab a bite during the day.

Walk Underwater At Interactive Aquarium Cancun

If your kids love sea creatures (and honestly, what kid doesn't?), take them to the Interactive Aquarium Cancun . Located in the La Isla shopping center, this family-friendly attraction is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Here, kids over 8 and adults can participate in an Aquarium Trek, a 20-minute-long experience where tourists walk underwater in a large aquarium while wearing a helmet to help them breathe. Other popular, family-friendly things to do include "petting" a ray or starfish in a touch tank and watching a dolphin show.

The aquarium received the "Humane Conservation" certification from American Humane, which means the staff takes great care of the welfare of its animals. Maybe skip the part where you can swim with dolphins to ensure you're respecting the animals. Reviewers on Tripadvisor mention that while this is a good aquarium, you won't need to spend much time here due to its small size, especially if you don't sign up for the extra encounters.

Our Methodology

The key to a successful family holiday is happy kids. The key to happy kids is a variety of fun-filled, child-centric attractions. Whether your little ones like to build sandcastles on a quiet beach, eat dinner on a pirate ship, or zip through the trees in a tropical jungle, finding the perfect family-friendly things to do can make or break a vacation. That's why we worked so hard to ensure all the activities on this list are worthy of a visit.

We scoured online reviews, dug through multiple articles written by family travel experts, and took our time investigating each attraction we've included in this roundup to make sure they belong here — this is a list of the "best" family-friendly things to do in Cancun, after all. To keep you and your family safe, we also made sure to investigate travel advisories so you're aware of any potential risks to traveling to Cancun. Luckily, it's a pretty safe place to visit.

Read the original article on Islands .

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+ mayan tours, resorts, xcaret, go to travel guides, designed for iphone.

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Explore Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula with Go To Travel Guides' Pocket Guide To Cancun. Whether you're exploring the city alone, with friends or with family, you can create a personalised bucket list itinerary of all the special things you want to do in Cancun! Our essential information, best things to do, hand-picked restaurants and nightlife suggestions are all available offline! In addition to learning about the rich history of this Mayan wonder, book guided tours of Cancun's most popular attractions and nearby activities, such as Xcaret Park, Chichen Itza, Isla Mujeres and more! Use this free travel guide app to get cheap tickets and skip the lines at the tourist attractions. With our easy-to-use city guide & trip planner, your smartphone becomes your personal tour guide around Cancun. --> Make a Bucket List Itinerary of Things You Want To Do --> Book Discounted Cancun Tours and Beat The Crowds --> Reserve Tables at Cancun's Top Restaurants --> Discover the Best Nightclubs and Bars in Cancun --> Get Discounts on Cancun's Best Hotels & Resorts --> See Cancun's Top Attractions on Detailed Maps For more information about Go To Travel Guides, you can find us on: Our Website – www.gototravelguides.net Our Travel Blog – www.gototravelguides.net/blog Instagram – instagram.com/natandmase Facebook – facebook.com/gototravelguides Pinterest – pinterest.com/natandmase Twitter – twitter.com/natandmase Where Will YOU Explore Next?

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IMAGES

  1. Guide to Visiting Chichén Itzá

    cancun trip to chichen itza

  2. How to Visit Chichén Itzá from Cancun on a Day Trip (2023)

    cancun trip to chichen itza

  3. Trip To Chichen Itza

    cancun trip to chichen itza

  4. 6 Best Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun & Beyond for 2023

    cancun trip to chichen itza

  5. Cancun: Full-Day Chichen Itzá and Holbox Island Tour

    cancun trip to chichen itza

  6. Cancún: Classic Chichen Itza Day Tour with Lunch

    cancun trip to chichen itza

COMMENTS

  1. Cancun to Chichen Itza Day Trip with Admission and Lunch (Feb 2024)

    Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Tulum Day Tour with Archaeological Site Admission. 4. from $59.00. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Chichen itza full day tour. from $70.00. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Tulum Day-Trip Mayan Ruins With Cenote Swim.

  2. How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza: Drive, Tour & Bus

    The bus journey from Cancun to Chichen Itza (or vice versa) takes about 3 hours of driving and costs about 250 pesos ($13 USD) for a one way ticket. You can buy these tickets online at the ADO Bus website, or in person at the bus station in Mexico. The ADO buses are clean, with air conditioning and bathrooms.

  3. 17 Best Chichén Itzá Tours From Cancún (Updated in 2023)

    Chichén Itzá, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid. Get directions. One of the most popular excursion options from Cancún is a Chichén Itzá, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid tour. This full-day group tour will take approximately 12 hours, including travel time to and from Cancún. Your first stop is the incredible Chichén Itzá.

  4. Chichen Itza, Cancun

    Chichen Itza Day Trip from Tulum Including Cenote and Lunch. 243. The ancient archaeological site of Chichen Itza is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enhance your experience of Mexico's iconic landmark on a day trip from Tulum, which includes lunch and a cenote visit.

  5. THE 10 BEST Chichen Itza Tours & Excursions

    2. Chichen Itza, Cenote, Valladolid, Tequila & Lunch. 9,273. Historical Tours. 6+ hours. Chichen Itza is an ancient Maya city in Mexico that was abandoned in the 15th century. Now a UNESCO World Heritage-listed…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 94% of travelers.

  6. Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun 2024

    Arrive at Chichen Itza around midday. You'll have 2-3 hours on site, with a guided tour of the key locations, including El Castillo (the Pyramid of Kukulcan), the Temple of the Warriors, and the ball court, plus free time to explore and take pictures. Return to your hotel or meeting point around 12 hours after you left.

  7. Cancún: Classic Chichen Itza Day Tour with Lunch

    17 Nuevo Vallarta. 18 Las Coloradas. 19 San Jose del Cabo. 20 Puerto Escondido. Travel from Cancún to Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a full-day trip. Take a guided tour of the ancient ruins, visit and swim in the underwater grotto of Cenote Ik Kil, and eat a buffet lunch accompanied by traditional music and dance.

  8. 13 BEST Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun

    This full-day tour to Chichen Itza from Cancun is great value for money at only $49 USD per person. Which for a 12-hour tour works at just over $4 per hour! Considering you get a guided tour of Chichen Itza, Valladolid, and Cenote Saamal, this is a great option for budget-savvy travelers staying in Cancun.

  9. 5 Ways To Get From Cancún to Chichén Itzá

    Independent travelers on a budget may prefer to get to Chichén Itzá by bus. The ADO bus company offers service from the ADO station in downtown Cancún to Chichén Itzá daily at 8:45 a.m. with a return bus departing at 4:30 p.m. from the archaeological site. According to the ADO website, the journey takes a little more than three hours.

  10. Cancún: Chichén Itzá All-Inclusive Guided Tour with Lunch

    Definitely, If you come to Cancun, visiting Chichen Itza is a must! This agency was so attentive and accurate in details. Exactly as it was announced. The guide Jorge is amazing, a very knowledgeable guy about the Mayan culture, he made our trip very digestible, not boring at all. Chichen Itza is not the same without a guided walk; it's very ...

  11. Chichen Itza Tour: Explore Mayan Ruins near Cancun

    Tour the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza. On this day trip to Chichen Itza the epic stories and the mysterious history will come to life as you listen to our bilingual tour guide weave an enticing narrative. Embark on a journey of exploration at the awe-inspiring ancient city of Chichen Itza - once the center of the Mayan empire in Central America.

  12. 12 Best Chichen Itza Tours From Cancun

    You can expect to pay well over £100 / $125 per person for the best private tours to Chichen Itza from Cancun. If you are wondering how to get to Chichen Itza on a budget, it will be cheaper to take the bus to Chichen Itza from Cancun. A round-trip ticket costs around £23 / $28.

  13. Chichen Itza Full day tour with buffet 2024

    Full-Day Tour to Chichén Itzá from Cancun or Riviera. from $65.00. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Luxury Tour in Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen. 5. from $99.90. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Chichen Itza, Coba, Cenote & Valladolid with Buffet Lunch. 340.

  14. Chichen Itza Combo Tour with Cenote Swim and Lunch from Cancun

    Highlights. An in-depth cultural tour of Chichen Itza with cenote swim. Explore the ruins with a guided visit, as well as time to explore on your own. A buffet lunch at a local restaurant and entrance fees included. Round-trip hotel pickup with a refreshing dip in a limestone cavern included.

  15. Chichen Itza Tours From Cancun

    FROM 910 USD Book now. With the Luxury Chichen Itza Tour from Cancun, enjoy the perks of traveling in Luxury. If you want to get in style to Chichen Itza, you must book this tour. Get to Chichen Itza from Cancun in a Suburban vehicle with refreshing amenities on the ride.

  16. How to Get from Cancun to Chichen Itza: 6 Great Options

    3. From Cancun to Chichen Itza by private transportation. Another one of the best options for getting from Cancun to Chichén Itzá is by private transportation. My favorite choice for a private transfer is Cancun Airport Transportation, which offers a wonderful trip to the most important city of the Mayan culture.

  17. Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote Swim, Lunch & Valladolid Visit

    Discover and book Day Trip to Chichen Itza and Valladolid from Cancun with Cenote Swim and Lunch on Tripadvisor. If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we'd be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3206CHI_01. +1 855 275 5071.

  18. Cancun to Chichen Itza Day Trip with Admission and Lunch 2023

    Visit the ball court, El Castillo (the Castle), Pyramid of Kukulkan, and Temple of the Warriors. Then, indulge in a buffet lunch of regional dishes. Your Chichen Itza day trip includes round-trip hotel transport from Cancun. Explore the observatory, a sacred cenote, the ball court, and the castle. Enjoy a delicious buffet-style lunch.

  19. Best Chichen Itza Tours from Cancun, Tulum & Playa [2024]

    View on Viator. A highly-rated Chichen Itza and cenote tour from Playa, this Chichen Itza tour takes around 10 - 12 hours and includes hotel pick up, a quick stop in Valladolid, lunch (with vegetarian options), unlimited drinks (and beer! 🍻), plus admission into the Mayan ruins and Suytun Cenote.

  20. How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza 2024

    Cancun Airport to Chichen Itza - 126 miles (200 km); 2.5 hours of driving. Cancun Downtown to Chichen Itza - 119 miles (190 km); 2 hrs of driving. Cancun Hotel Zone (beach) to Chichen Itza - 135 miles (217 km); 3 hours of drive time.

  21. THE BEST Day Trips from Cancun to Chichen Itza

    2.0 of 5 bubbles. & up. Top day trips from Cancun, Mexico to Chichen Itza: See reviews and photos of Cancun to Chichen Itza day trips on Tripadvisor. Find day trips to take today, this coming weekend, or later in March. Book with confidence with our Low Price Guarantee and 24/7 support.

  22. Full Day Private Tour of Chichen Itza from Cancun

    from$88.00. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Cenote Tamcach-Ha, Tulum, Coba & Playa del Carmen+ Round trip from Cancun. 1. from$88.00. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan. Chichen itza full day tour. from$70.00. Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan.

  23. The Internet Says These Are The Best Family-Friendly Things To Do In Cancun

    Unlike Chichen Itza, which takes over two hours to reach (more on that later), the El Rey ruins are super easy to get to. They're located right in Cancun's Hotel Zone.

  24. Cancun Travel Guide & Planner 4+

    Use this free travel guide app to get cheap tickets and skip the lines at the tourist attractions. With our easy-to-use city guide & trip planner, your smartphone becomes your personal tour guide around Cancun. --> Make a Bucket List Itinerary of Things You Want To Do. --> Book Discounted Cancun Tours and Beat The Crowds.

  25. Day Trips from Cancun to Chichen Itza

    Full-Day Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Private Tour with Lunch. 37. Hit the best of Maya archaeological sites — Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum — on this 12-hour private tour from Cancun. At the UNESCO site of Chichen Itza, learn the cultural import of landmarks like the Kukulcan Pyramid and the Temple of Warriors.