From happy customers

Loved by 44 million+

Janyce

United States

Aug 2025

5/5

Everything was smooth and convenient. Our crew was fantastic! Oli our driver, Ricardo our coordinator, and Jonathan our guide were all top notch! Many thumbs up for this crew! ❤️❤️❤️

Morgan

United States

Aug 2025

5/5

Olegardio, Ricardo, and Jonathan were an amazing team! So kind, efficient, and knowledgeable. The whole experience was quite special. My group had an amazing time and we were very comfortable and well taken care of. Booking process was super smooth. The activities were a great mix and the locals and tour guides were extremely fun and friendly. Would definitely book again and would definitely recommend!

Lina

Sep 2025

5/5

Early access is SO worth it. Our guide made the history come alive. Bus was modern, even had USB ports. Bring extra water.

Rocio

Sep 2025

4/5

Family trip. Guide was friendly, answered all our questions. Early start is a must to avoid the crowds. Bring your own snacks.

Leonie

May 2025

4/5

Family trip with kids (8 and 13). The guide was great with the kids and kept them entertained. Chichen Itza is crowded but a must-see. Cenote swim was the highlight. Bring extra snacks.

Niko

May 2025

4/5

Good tour, but very long day. The guide was knowledgeable but the group was big. Chichen Itza is crowded but impressive. Ek Balam is more peaceful. The cenote was beautiful but busy.

Sabine

Aug 2025

5/5

Amazing tour. Our guide, Raul, was so knowledgeable and friendly. Early access was key, saw everything before the crowds.

Anya

Aug 2025

5/5

Went solo and met cool people. The guide explained everything twice, just in case. Loved the stories about ancient Mayan kings.

Things to know before booking tours from Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá

Located about 194km from Riviera Maya, reaching Chichén Itzá will take you about two and a half hours. Some tours also offer pick-ups from shared meeting points in Playa del Carmen, a city in the Riviera Maya region. Going from Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá will take you about two hours and fifteen minutes.
If you choose a guided tour, such as the Chichén Itzá, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour with Lunch, you’ll also get the benefit of round-trip transfers from a shared meeting point or directly from your hotel, depending on which option you choose.
If you choose the Skip-the-Line ticket, you’ll be able to explore the site at your own pace. This could take anywhere between 1-3 hours, depending on how much you want to learn about the site.
On the other hand, if you choose a guided tour that also includes a visit to other attractions such as the Chichén Itzá, Cenote, and Archaeological Sites Tour with Lunch or the Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam & Cenote Tour with Lunch, you’ll need a minimum of 8 hours from start to finish.
These longer tours also typically include a Mexican buffet-style lunch that includes dishes like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) or lime soup.
The Chichén Itzá Early Access Guided Tour starts early in the morning, giving you early access to the site before the crowds build. This tour, however, ends before noon, and thus doesn't include a meal.

Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá: Choosing the ideal tour

Experiences	Key Features	Book Now
From Riviera Maya: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Lunch	Entry to Chichén Itzá and Valladolid \|Access to a sacred cenote \| Round-trip transfers \| Mexican-style buffet lunch \| English or Spanish-speaking guide	Book Now
Chichén Itzá, Ekʼ Balam & Cenote Tour with Lunch	Entry to Chichén Itzá and Ekʼ Balam \| Access to a sacred cenote \| Round-trip transfers \| Mexican-style buffet lunch \| English or Spanish-speaking guide	Book Now
Chichén Itzá, Cenote and Archaeological Sites Tour with Lunch	Entry to Chichén Itzá & another archaeological site \| Access to a sacred cenote \| Round-trip transfers \| Mexican-style buffet lunch \| English or Spanish-speaking guide	Book Now
Early Access Tour Chichén Itzá	Entry to Chichén Itzá \| Round-trip transfers \| English or Spanish-speaking guide	Book Now
Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Lunch	Entry to Chichén Itzá and Valladolid \| Access to a sacred cenote \| Round-trip transfers \| Mexican-style buffet lunch \| English or Spanish-speaking guide	Book Now

Getting to Chichén Itzá from Playa del Carmen

Going from Riviera Maya or Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá by car is one of the most comfortable options you can choose. You can take toll highway 180D westward to reach the site. However, keep in mind that you will have to pay a toll of about $385 MXN one-way.

Directions to Chichén Itzá

You can also take a bus from Playa del Carmen that takes you directly to Chichén Itzá or includes a transfer in Valladolid. The whole ride will take you about 3-4 hours, including stops, but the air conditioning makes this a comfortable journey.

Tourist guide explaining Chichen Itza temple history to visitors in front of ancient pyramid, Mexico.

The best way to explore Chichén Itzá is to choose a guided tour. These offer transfers in an AC coach from a shared meeting point or from your hotel, and also give you the benefit of a bilingual guide who offers key insights into the site’s history.

Recommended tours:

Chichén Itzá, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour with Lunch
Chichén Itzá, Cenote, and Archaeological Sites Tour with Lunch
Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam & Cenote Tour with Lunch
Chichén Itzá Early Access Guided Tour
From Riviera Maya: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Lunch

The best time to go for your Chichén Itzá tour

Weekdays vs weekends: Chichén Itzá can get incredibly busy, especially over the weekends. Moreover, Mexican citizens and residents also enjoy free entry on Sundays. This makes weekday mornings the best time to book Chichén Itzá tickets when the weather’s at its best and the site is less crowded.
Peak season vs low season: The best time to go from Riviera Maya to Chichén Itzá in terms of weather is during the dry season (November to April), more specifically in winter (December to February). This is when the weather is comfortable, which also makes this a busy period. However, reaching the site early can help you skip the queues and crowds.

Key tips for the perfect visit to Chichén Itzá

Visit the site on a weekday as far as possible, as weekends and Sundays can get extremely busy.
If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of organizing your own transportation to and fro, opt for a guided tour. These include round-trip transfers from shared meeting points or from your hotel.
A visit to Chichén Itzá can involve a lot of walking, so a pair of comfortable shoes and plenty of water are a must.
Make sure to wear respectful attire, as this is a heritage site. Avoid keeping shirts unbuttoned and don’t wear swimsuits. However, you can carry a swimsuit if your tour includes visiting a sacred cenote.
Avoid littering the site and climbing the various structures.
While you’ll find several souvenir shops around the site’s vicinity, the shops near the parking lot offer cheaper options.

Frequently asked questions about Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá tours

What is the best way to reach Chichén Itzá from Riviera Maya or Playa del Carmen?

If you want to go to Chichén Itzá from Riviera Maya or Playa del Carmen, you can choose to travel by car, bus, or opt for a guided tour that includes round-trip transfers.

Are Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen the same?

Playa del Carmen is a city in the larger Riviera Maya region, and thus, they are not exactly the same.

Can I purchase tickets in advance?

Yes, you can book various Chichén Itzá guided tours and skip-the-line tickets in advance. This way, you’ll avoid waiting in the ticket and tax queues, allowing you to spend more time exploring the site.

What are the operating hours of Chichén Itzá?

Chichén Itzá is open daily from 8am to 5pm, with the last entry permitted at 4pm

Is it possible to climb the pyramids at Chichén Itzá?

No, climbing the iconic pyramid, El Castillo, is prohibited to preserve the structure and ensure visitors’ safety.

Are guided tours available?

Absolutely! You can choose from various guided tours on Headout. Some also combine a guided tour of the site along with visits to other archaeological sites such as Coba, Ekʼ Balam, and even cities like Valladolid.

A UNESCO-listed Mayan wonder, Valladolid, and a dip in a sacred cenote, all in one day.

Day out: Enjoy a guided tour of Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO-listed site & one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, free time in the colonial city of Valladolid, and a dip in a sacred cenote.
You’ll get: An expert bilingual guide, a buffet-style lunch, direct round-trip transfers from your hotel in Playa del Carmen, and a delicious lunch.
Chichén Itzá: Tour the ancient Mayan site of Chichén Itzá as you discover its key landmarks, including El Castillo, and learn about its history, culture, and astronomical genius.
Valladolid: Stroll through the serene, cobblestoned streets of Valladolid, a colonial town known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.
Sacred cenote: Beat the sharp Yucatán sun with a dip in a gorgeous cenote, and enjoy a buffet lunch and a local tasting experience to keep you going.

Inclusions

Entry to Chichén Itzá, Valladolid, and a sacred cenote
Bilingual expert guide (English and Spanish)
Round-trip transfers in an AC coach from your hotel in Playa del Carmen
Buffet-style lunch

Exclusions

Local taxes worth US$39 per adult and US$6 per child

Mandatory life vest rental of US$9

What to bring

Carry a valid ID or passport to validate your tickets.
Make sure to carry adequate cash, including smaller denominations of the Mexican Peso, to pay for any food, souvenirs, or tips along the way.
Carry a swimsuit if you plan on taking a dip in the cenote.

What’s not allowed

Drones, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed at Chichén Itzá
Pets and service animals are not allowed at the site.
You’re not allowed to touch or climb any of the monuments at Chichén Itzá.
Carrying large bags inside the site is prohibited.
You’re not allowed to bring food and drinks into Chichén Itzá.

Accessibility

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant women, or visitors with limited mobility.

Additional information

Your ticket price doesn’t include local taxes worth US$39 per adult and US$9 per child. You will need to pay these on-site via credit card.
Renting a life vest is mandatory if you plan on swimming in the cenote. This will cost you US$9.
The pickup time will be confirmed 24 hours before the tour.
Your tour includes travel insurance.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A visit to two Mayan sites, a refreshing cenote swim & a sumptuous meal, all in one ticket.

Day out: Soak in the wonders of two of the most iconic Mayan cities as you discover their history with your professional guide. Swim in a sacred cenote, and enjoy a delicious buffet-style meal with seamless transfers from Playa del Carmen.
You’ll get: A guided tour of Chichén Itzá and Ekʼ Balam, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, a buffet lunch, and air-conditioned transfers for the utmost convenience.
Chichén Itzá: Wander through this UNESCO-listed site, a reminder of the grandeur and genius of the Maya. Explore key highlights like the Great Ball Court, El Castillo, and more.
Ek Balam: Explore this ancient Mayan site, one of the few where you can climb an ancient Mayan structure for panoramic views of the Yucatán landscape.
Upgrades: Select a tour with hotel pick-ups directly from your hotel in Cancún for a seamless experience with all logistics taken care of.

Inclusions

Entry to Chichén Itzá, Ekʼ Balam, and a sacred cenote
Bilingual expert guide (English and Spanish)
Free time to explore Ek Balam
Round-trip transfers in an AC coach
Transfers from a common meeting point in Playa del Carmen (as per option selected)
Transfers from your hotel in Cancún (as per option selected)
Buffet-style lunch

Exclusions

Local taxes worth US$66 per adult and child

Mandatory life vest rental of US$9

What to bring

Have your ID ready for a seamless experience.
Bring along your swimsuit for the cenote experience.
Make sure to carry enough cash, including smaller denominations of the Mexican Peso, for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What's not allowed

Keep in mind that drones are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
Unfortunately, your pets cannot join you on this experience.
You cannot carry food & drinks into Chichén Itzá.
Carrying large bags or luggage isn’t allowed.

Accessibility

This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant women, or visitors with limited mobility.

Additional information

The tax for the archeological sites (Chichén Itzá and Ekʼ Balam) is US$66 in total and must be paid on-site (only via credit card).
Mexican citizens and residents can get a discount, subject to presenting their official ID.
Renting a life vest is mandatory to swim in the cenote. You’ll need to pay US$9 on site for this.
The ticket price includes travel insurance.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A UNESCO-listed Mayan wonder, Valladolid, and a dip in a sacred cenote, all in one day.

Day out: Enjoy a guided tour of Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO-listed site & one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, free time in the colonial city of Valladolid, and a dip in a sacred cenote.
You’ll get: An expert bilingual guide, a buffet-style lunch, direct round-trip transfers from your hotel in Playa del Carmen, and a delicious lunch.
Chichén Itzá: Tour the ancient Mayan site of Chichén Itzá as you discover its key landmarks, including El Castillo, and learn about its history, culture, and astronomical genius.
Valladolid: Stroll through the serene, cobblestoned streets of Valladolid, a colonial town known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.
Sacred cenote: Beat the sharp Yucatán sun with a dip in a gorgeous cenote, and enjoy a buffet lunch and a local tasting experience to keep you going.

Inclusions

Entry to Chichén Itzá, Valladolid, and a sacred cenote
Bilingual expert guide (English and Spanish)
Round-trip transfers in an AC coach from your hotel in Playa del Carmen
Buffet-style lunch

Exclusions

Local taxes worth US$39 per adult and US$6 per child

Mandatory life vest rental of US$9

What to bring

Carry a valid ID or passport to validate your tickets.
Make sure to carry adequate cash, including smaller denominations of the Mexican Peso, to pay for any food, souvenirs, or tips along the way.
Carry a swimsuit if you plan on taking a dip in the cenote.

What’s not allowed

Drones, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed at Chichén Itzá
Pets and service animals are not allowed at the site.
You’re not allowed to touch or climb any of the monuments at Chichén Itzá.
Carrying large bags inside the site is prohibited.
You’re not allowed to bring food and drinks into Chichén Itzá.

Accessibility

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant women, or visitors with limited mobility.

Additional information

Your ticket price doesn’t include local taxes worth US$39 per adult and US$9 per child. You will need to pay these on-site via credit card.
Renting a life vest is mandatory if you plan on swimming in the cenote. This will cost you US$9.
The pickup time will be confirmed 24 hours before the tour.
Your tour includes travel insurance.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A visit to two Mayan sites, a refreshing cenote swim & a sumptuous meal, all in one ticket.

Day out: Soak in the wonders of two of the most iconic Mayan cities as you discover their history with your professional guide. Swim in a sacred cenote, and enjoy a delicious buffet-style meal with seamless transfers from Playa del Carmen.
You’ll get: A guided tour of Chichén Itzá and Ekʼ Balam, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, a buffet lunch, and air-conditioned transfers for the utmost convenience.
Chichén Itzá: Wander through this UNESCO-listed site, a reminder of the grandeur and genius of the Maya. Explore key highlights like the Great Ball Court, El Castillo, and more.
Ek Balam: Explore this ancient Mayan site, one of the few where you can climb an ancient Mayan structure for panoramic views of the Yucatán landscape.
Upgrades: Select a tour with hotel pick-ups directly from your hotel in Cancún for a seamless experience with all logistics taken care of.

Inclusions

Entry to Chichén Itzá, Ekʼ Balam, and a sacred cenote
Bilingual expert guide (English and Spanish)
Free time to explore Ek Balam
Round-trip transfers in an AC coach
Transfers from a common meeting point in Playa del Carmen (as per option selected)
Transfers from your hotel in Cancún (as per option selected)
Buffet-style lunch

Exclusions

Local taxes worth US$66 per adult and child

Mandatory life vest rental of US$9

What to bring

Have your ID ready for a seamless experience.
Bring along your swimsuit for the cenote experience.
Make sure to carry enough cash, including smaller denominations of the Mexican Peso, for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What's not allowed

Keep in mind that drones are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
Unfortunately, your pets cannot join you on this experience.
You cannot carry food & drinks into Chichén Itzá.
Carrying large bags or luggage isn’t allowed.

Accessibility

This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant women, or visitors with limited mobility.

Additional information

The tax for the archeological sites (Chichén Itzá and Ekʼ Balam) is US$66 in total and must be paid on-site (only via credit card).
Mexican citizens and residents can get a discount, subject to presenting their official ID.
Renting a life vest is mandatory to swim in the cenote. You’ll need to pay US$9 on site for this.
The ticket price includes travel insurance.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Guided Tours

NaN

From Playa del Carmen: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Lunch

A UNESCO-listed Mayan wonder, Valladolid, and a dip in a sacred cenote, all in one day.

Day out: Enjoy a guided tour of Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO-listed site & one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, free time in the colonial city of Valladolid, and a dip in a sacred cenote.
You’ll get: An expert bilingual guide, a buffet-style lunch, direct round-trip transfers from your hotel in Playa del Carmen, and a delicious lunch.
Chichén Itzá: Tour the ancient Mayan site of Chichén Itzá as you discover its key landmarks, including El Castillo, and learn about its history, culture, and astronomical genius.
Valladolid: Stroll through the serene, cobblestoned streets of Valladolid, a colonial town known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.
Sacred cenote: Beat the sharp Yucatán sun with a dip in a gorgeous cenote, and enjoy a buffet lunch and a local tasting experience to keep you going.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

12 hr.

Transfers included

Meals included

Guided Tours

NaN

From Playa del Carmen: Chichén Itzá, Ekʼ Balam & Cenote Tour with Lunch

A visit to two Mayan sites, a refreshing cenote swim & a sumptuous meal, all in one ticket.

Day out: Soak in the wonders of two of the most iconic Mayan cities as you discover their history with your professional guide. Swim in a sacred cenote, and enjoy a delicious buffet-style meal with seamless transfers from Playa del Carmen.
You’ll get: A guided tour of Chichén Itzá and Ekʼ Balam, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, a buffet lunch, and air-conditioned transfers for the utmost convenience.
Chichén Itzá: Wander through this UNESCO-listed site, a reminder of the grandeur and genius of the Maya. Explore key highlights like the Great Ball Court, El Castillo, and more.
Ek Balam: Explore this ancient Mayan site, one of the few where you can climb an ancient Mayan structure for panoramic views of the Yucatán landscape.
Upgrades: Select a tour with hotel pick-ups directly from your hotel in Cancún for a seamless experience with all logistics taken care of.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

12 hr.

Transfers included

Meals included

Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá Tours

From happy customers

Top things to do in Cancun

Why choose a Chichén Itzá tour from Playa del Carmen

Visit an iconic Mayan site

Things to know before booking tours from Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá

Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá: Choosing the ideal tour

Getting to Chichén Itzá from Playa del Carmen

The best time to go for your Chichén Itzá tour

Key highlights of Chichén Itzá

El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán)

Key tips for the perfect visit to Chichén Itzá

Frequently asked questions about Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá tours

Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá Tours

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

From Playa del Carmen: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Lunch

From Playa del Carmen: Chichén Itzá, Ekʼ Balam & Cenote Tour with Lunch