Chichen Itza Guide

Chichen Itza Archaeology Tours: Yucatan's Mayan Wonders

Explore the iconic Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza with expert-led archaeology tours on the Yucatan Peninsula.

35+ tours
From $$25
3-5 hours

The Yucatan Peninsula is a treasure trove of ancient Mayan civilization, and nowhere is this more evident than at Chichen Itza. This UNESCO World Heritage site, once a formidable power center of the Maya, draws millions of visitors each year, all eager to witness its grandeur. Yucatan Peninsula archaeology tours focused on Chichen Itza offer an unparalleled opportunity to step back in time. These excursions are designed to illuminate the history, architecture, and astronomical significance of this awe-inspiring archaeological zone. From the imposing El Castillo pyramid to the Great Ball Court, each structure tells a story of a sophisticated society that mastered mathematics, astronomy, and monumental construction. Choosing the right tour is key to unlocking the full potential of your visit. Whether you're interested in a deep dive into Mayan cosmology, the intricacies of their architectural achievements, or simply want to grasp the scale and wonder of this historical marvel, specialized tours cater to a range of interests. These experiences go beyond a simple walk-through; they provide context, share fascinating anecdotes, and often bring the ruins to life through the knowledge of experienced guides. By joining an archaeology tour, visitors gain a richer understanding of the Maya's ingenuity and their profound impact on Mesoamerican history, making your exploration of Chichen Itza truly insightful and memorable.

Featured Yucatan Peninsula Archaeology Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for yucatan peninsula archaeology tours in Chichen Itza

Private Guide Service in the Archaeological Zone of Chichen Itza
From $69.06
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

You will learn from local experts all the mysteries and corners of the archaeological zone of Chichen Itza. We will talk about culture, architecture, history, traditions and customs of the Mayan world. More than a tourist guide, you will find someone who will accompany you during your visit to this majestic place and also who will provide you with the best recommendations so that your stay in this region is the most pleasant and fun. We also help our travelers by avoiding long lines, purchasing their tickets in advance if they wish, so that upon arrival we enter the archaeological zone directly.

5.0(143)
1h
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Chichen Itza Tour
From $45
Free Cancellation

Embark on an exhilarating journey to explore the wonders of the Mayan legacy with our full-day tour to Chichén Itzá, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World! Marvel at the iconic Kukulkán pyramid, the Mayan observatory, and the sacred Cenote as you're guided through the impressive city of Chichén Itzá. Indulge in a delicious buffet lunch featuring regional dishes and enjoy a traditional Mayan dance performance. Dive into the pristine waters of a Cenote within a Hacienda for a refreshing swim. Conclude your adventure in the charming city of Valladolid, where historic sites like the XVI-century Saint Servatius cathedral await. Join us for an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery!

4.8(587)
10h
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Chichén Itzá Deluxe Tour
From $103
Free Cancellation

Conocer una de las 7 Maravillas del mundo moderno en un tour excelente donde te adentraras en la selva YUCATECA de la mano de nuestros guías certificados ,Vivirás la experiencia de conocer uno de los cenotes abiertos mas espectaculares de la Region y si así lo deseas podrás sumergirte en sus aguas cristalinas .

4.7(54)
12h
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Chichen Itza Mayan adventure
From $20
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a complete tour to the Yucatan Peninsula on our tour to Chichen Itza and let our team of professionals take you to live a unique experience visiting one of the wonders of the world (Chichen Itza) where we will explain more about the Mayan culture and about this city that with a big importance for the development of the Mayan culture. We will take you to Valladolid, a town that has the category of magical town for the beauty of its streets, traditions, history and gastronomy, On our tour we offer lunch which is buffet, admission to all places, free transportation from your hotel and the best service. Before finishing you can immerse yourself in a true Mayan cenote of fresh and crystalline waters that will refresh you and you will feel in touch with nature, dare to swim in the cenote and live another unique experience You will pay only a fee of goods and service of 20 usd per person when the transportation pick you up. (fee not included)

11h
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Chichen Itza Premium (We leave DE Merida Yucatan)
From $92.07
Free Cancellation

This tour is designed so that travelers make the most of the day without having to invest in two or three tours.

4.3(20)
10h
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Chichen Itza
From $104
Free Cancellation

Experience the majesty of Chichén Itzá, a world heritage site! Travel by bus from your hotel to one of the seven wonders of the modern world, Chichén Itzá. Take a guided tour of its imposing Mayan vestiges, famous for the mathematical precision with which they were built. The tour includes a visit to the colonial city of Valladolid where you will find a Cathedral built in 1545, the entrance to the Xcajum cenote or Selva Maya (if you choose 1 cenote) or Cenote Hubiku and Suytun (if you choose 2), where you can purify yourself and renew your energies. Delight yourself with exquisite Yucatecan buffet food in a beautiful restaurant with typical dances.

4.4(8)
10h
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Chichen Itza Plus
From $119
Free Cancellation

Beyond your imagination Explore Chichén Itzá and discover the enigmatic archaeological zone, the Mayan ceremonial center (renowned Patrimony of the Humanity for the UNESCO), and the incredible Kukulcán’s Temple (considered one of 7 New Marvels of the Modern World). Another attraction of this amazing tour is the ecoturistic center SUYTUN (in Mayan language: Center of Stone) with a wonderful CENOTE (in Mayan language: Cavern with Water) located in the Caribbean jungle of Yucatan – you will be able to refresh in the crystalline and sacred underground waters – according to the Mayan belief – Protected by a mythological figure, the guardian of the jungle, called ALUX.

4.5(4)
11h
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Chichen Itza Premium
From $129
Free Cancellation

Beyond your imagination Explore Chichén Itzá and discover the enigmatic archaeological zone, the Mayan ceremonial center (renowned Patrimony of the Humanity for the UNESCO), and the incredible Kukulcán’s Temple (considered one of 7 New Marvels of the Modern World). Another attraction of this amazing tour is the ecoturistic center SUYTUN (in Mayan language: Center of Stone) with a wonderful CENOTE (in Mayan language: Cavern with Water) located in the Caribbean jungle of Yucatan – you will be able to refresh in the crystalline and sacred underground waters – according to the Mayan belief – Protected by a mythological figure, the guardian of the jungle, called ALUX.

4.5(12)
11h
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Chichen Itza Regular
From $107
Free Cancellation

The first stop is the Real del Mayab Tourist Parador, in Yucatan, there you tour its shops, stroll through its beautiful green areas and have lunch at the “Real Mayab” Buffet Restaurant. It is Yucatecan food, delicious for its flavors. Then you go to the Archaeological Zone of Chichen Itza. It is a guided tour where you will be surprised by the greatness and beauty of its main attraction, the Templo Mayor, the Pyramid of Ku kul kan, considered within the 7 wonders of the modern world. As the exercise has made you warm and sweat, the next stop is at one of the most beautiful cenotes in the area called Selva Maya, it is an open-air cenote. On the way back to your hotel, you will make a final stop in the magical town of Valladolid with its 17th and 18th century houses, its beautiful colonial architecture, its flowery park and imposing church. You have more than 20 minutes of time to capture the images of your taste in that environment where time seems to have stopped.

4.9(23)
11h
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Chichen Itza Tour with Cenote and Food from Valladolid Yucatan
From $115.03
Free CancellationNew🔥Likely to Sell Out

We pick you up from your accommodation from the magical village Valladolid, you will join a tour to explore the great Mayan city "Chichen Itza", know a wonder of the world "Temple of Kukulcan" , Temple of the Warriors and the great ball game court, on the tour a native and certified guide will share the mysteries that keeps this majestic pre-Hispanic city. You will be one of the first to enter as soon as the archaeological zone opens to avoid heat and crowding. To cool off, soak in the crystal clear waters of the ikkil cenote, nestled in the rainforest surrounded by nature and bird sledding. You can not miss the delight with regional food, in a local cuisine you can enjoy a delicious typical dish with its freshly handmade tortillas. Finally, connect your energy with Mother Earth by exploring two cave-like cenotes where the Mayans had contacts with their underworld gods, sacred places for their offerings.

8h
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Full Day Tour of Chichen Itza and Magical Towns of Yucatan
From $120.85
Free Cancellation

The Archaeological Zone of Chichen Itza is part of the 7 modern wonders because it was and still is an important Mayan city. To know the magical town of Izamal with the history that represents our state as founder of the first convent in Yucatan, its uniformity in the color yellow throughout the town. We will visit one of the open cenotes of the state of Yucatan, where you can have some fun, it is already one of the most beautiful outdoors and you can see its natural beauty. You can enjoy food on the tour

9h
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Chichen Itza Tour
From $495
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Visit Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, an UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience the magnificent archaeological site and its history. Learn about the Maya culture and traditions. Admire the temple of Kukulcan, known as El Castillo and take some beautiful pictures of the site.

5.0(12)
9h
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Chichen Itza PREMIER
From $157.68
Free CancellationNew

Be one of the first to arrive at Chichen Itza archeological zone, avoid long lines, enjoy around 2 hours sharing knowledge with our certified guide. Our guides are 100% professional, speak perfect English, and love sharing information with our visitors. During the tour, you will see stone carvings, structures such as the Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Wall of Skulls. Then, visit the iconic Cenote CHICHIKAN, you can coool off in an uncovered cenote, rest in the hammock area nad enjoy a delicius buffet meal

5.0(4)
6h
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Chichen Itza Discovery
From $137
Free Cancellation

Come and enjoy of one of the new 7 wonders of the world with this amazing excursion where we will be part of the first groups arriving to the ruins and take advantage of the place. There an expert guide will provide all.the details and information you need to know about this culture. After that it's time to go and refresh in a marvelous cenote and admire the natural formations Not enough we will make a little stop at Valladolid, a colonial town with nice style and history about Mexico.

12h
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Chichen Itza Max
From $200
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

High quality tours with experienced guides. Private tours up to 9 people. CHICHEN ITZA The morning stroll in the ancient Mayan city which is on the list of the Seven New Wonders of the World as well UNESCO World Heritage Site from 1988. CENOTE Bath and relaxation in a natural limestone pool. TEQUILA FACTORY How does real tequila taste like? What is the difference between Tequila Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, Extra Añejo and Antigua? After visiting the distillery, you can buy Mexican liquors. MERCADO LOCAL will allow us to get to know the authentic flavors of Yucatan. You will see exotic, unknown fruits and vegetables. VALLADOLID visit in this magic town, which is on the Pueblo Magico list. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico.

4.9(65)
12h
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Ready to Explore Chichen Itza?

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Why Choose Yucatan Peninsula Archaeology Tours in Chichen Itza?

Expert Local Guides

Learn from passionate, knowledgeable guides who bring Mayan history and culture to life.

In-depth Historical Context

Gain a deeper understanding of Mayan civilization, their beliefs, and their architectural genius.

Prime Photo Opportunities

Guides often know the best times and spots for iconic photographs of the ruins.

Efficient Exploration

Tours are often structured to maximize your time and ensure you see the most significant structures.

Diverse Itineraries

Options range from quick visits to comprehensive explorations, often combined with other Yucatan attractions.

Hassle-Free Planning

Booking through aggregation platforms simplifies comparing options and finding tours that fit your schedule.

Types of Yucatan Peninsula Archaeology Tours in Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza Classic Tours

These are the most common tours, focusing on the main archaeological site. Expect to see El Castillo, the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court, and the Observatory. Guides will provide historical context and explain the significance of each structure.

Visit El CastilloExplore the Great Ball CourtLearn Mayan historyGuided by local expertsTypically 3-4 hours

Chichen Itza & Cenote Combos

Combine your archaeological exploration with a refreshing dip in one of the Yucatan's famous cenotes. Many tours include transportation and time to swim and cool off after walking the ruins.

Includes Chichen Itza visitSwim in a natural cenoteOften includes lunchFull-day excursionTransportation included

Sunrise/Sunset Tours

Experience Chichen Itza during the magical hours of dawn or dusk. These tours often offer a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds and unique lighting for photography.

Visit during optimal lightFewer crowdsUnique photo opportunitiesFocus on ambianceVaries in duration

In-depth Archaeological Deep Dives

For history buffs, these tours go beyond the basics, delving into Mayan astronomy, mathematics, social structures, and the latest archaeological findings. Guides are often highly specialized.

Detailed historical analysisFocus on astronomy/mathExpert archeologist guidesExtended site explorationRequires more time

What to Expect on Chichen Itza Archaeology Tours

Duration

Tours typically range from 3 to 5 hours for the site visit itself, not including travel time from your accommodation.

Weather

The Yucatan Peninsula is hot and humid year-round. Expect intense sun; hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential.

Group Size

Group sizes vary from intimate small groups (under 10) to larger bus tours (20+ people). Private tours are also available.

What's Included

Most tours include entry fees to the archaeological site, guided tour, and transportation. Lunch, drinks, and cenote access are common inclusions on combo tours.

Meeting Point

Tours usually offer hotel pick-up and drop-off from popular areas like Cancun, Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, and Merida. Some may have a central meeting point.

Additional Costs

While many tours include entry fees, consider potential extra costs for personal expenses, souvenirs, tips for guides and drivers, and potentially extra drinks or snacks.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Arrive early or opt for a tour that visits early in the morning to avoid the peak crowds and the hottest part of the day.

2

Wear comfortable walking shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.

3

Bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. The sun is very strong, and shade is limited.

4

Stay hydrated! Carry a reusable water bottle; many tours provide water, but it's good to have your own.

5

Consider a tour that includes transportation from your accommodation. Navigating to Chichen Itza can be time-consuming otherwise.

6

Listen carefully to your guide. They possess invaluable knowledge that will significantly enhance your appreciation of the site.

7

Don't touch the ancient structures. They are delicate and protected for future generations.

8

Check if the tour includes entry fees. Sometimes, these are listed separately and can add to the overall cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is the best time of day to visit Chichen Itza?

A: The best times are early morning (shortly after opening) or late afternoon. This helps you avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds. Many tours are timed to take advantage of these periods.

Q:How long should I spend at Chichen Itza?

A: A typical guided tour of the main archaeological zone lasts about 2-3 hours. If you're combining it with a cenote or other activities, expect a full-day excursion, potentially 8-10 hours including travel.

Q:Do I need to book Chichen Itza tours in advance?

A: Yes, it's highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking in advance ensures you secure your preferred date and time, and often allows you to compare prices and inclusions from multiple operators.

Q:What should I bring with me to Chichen Itza?

A: Essentials include comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a camera. A small backpack is useful for carrying these items.

Q:Are there places to eat at Chichen Itza?

A: Yes, there are restaurants and souvenir shops just outside the main entrance to the archaeological site. Many tours also include lunch or stop at local restaurants.

Q:Can I swim at Chichen Itza?

A: You cannot swim within the main archaeological site itself. However, many popular tours combine a visit to Chichen Itza with swimming at nearby cenotes, which are natural sinkholes filled with fresh water.

Q:What is the significance of El Castillo?

A: El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcan, is the most iconic pyramid at Chichen Itza. It's a masterpiece of Mayan architecture and astronomy, designed to align with astronomical events like the equinoxes, creating a serpent shadow effect on its staircase.

Q:How do I get to Chichen Itza from Cancun or Playa del Carmen?

A: Most visitors opt for organized tours that include round-trip transportation. You can also rent a car or take a public bus, but tours offer convenience and guided commentary.

Don't Miss the Perfect Chichen Itza Experience

Book your yucatan peninsula archaeology tours today - 35+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Chichen Itza?

Witness the awe-inspiring Mayan civilization's architectural genius at the iconic Chichen Itza archaeological site.

Explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history.

Experience the fascinating astronomical alignments and understanding of the ancient Maya at this significant location.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and profound historical legacy of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Discover the magic of the Sacred Cenote and its spiritual significance to the Mayan people.

Uncover the mysteries of a lost civilization that shaped Mesoamerican history at Chichen Itza.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Chichen Itza experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Expect hot and humid conditions year-round, with temperatures often soaring into the high 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. The rainy season brings afternoon showers, while the dry season is generally sunnier and slightly less humid.

Best Months

The best months to visit Chichen Itza are typically from November to March, during the dry season, offering pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, ideal for exploring the vast ruins without intense heat.

Peak Season

Peak season in Chichen Itza usually falls between December and April, coinciding with drier weather and North American winter holidays, meaning larger crowds and potentially higher accommodation prices.

Off Season

The off-season, from May to October, can be hotter and more humid with a higher chance of rain, but you'll encounter fewer tourists and potentially better deals on accommodations.

Plan Your Chichen Itza Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Chichen Itza itself is straightforward; the archaeological site is expansive but walkable. You'll primarily be on foot exploring the main structures. For reaching Chichen Itza from nearby cities like Cancun or Merida, ADO buses are a popular and affordable option. Many visitors opt for guided tours which often include transportation, simplifying logistics. Taxis are available but can be more expensive. Renting a car offers the most flexibility if you plan to explore other Yucatan attractions before or after your visit to this incredible Mayan city.

Car Rental Deals in Chichen Itza

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Chichen Itza adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Chichen Itza

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

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Discover the best tours and activities in Chichen Itza with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.