sunrise tour chichen itza

Early Morning Chichen Itza Tour in small group

Chichen itza sunrise discovery.

From $134.10

"Best way to explore Chichen Itza and avoid the masses. Ask for R2D2 !"

chichen itza express tour - just wanted to see the site & beat the crowds. I wanted a tour that went only to Chichen Itza. This was perfect. Got back to the resort in plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the afternoon. Highly recommend if you want to see chichen itza.

General Info

What to Bring

Why With Us

Family Friendly

Ruin exploring, about this tour:.

Experience the Chichen Itza Sunrise Discovery, a no-nonsense tour that offers you the opportunity to explore one of the modern marvels of the world like never before. Our primary goal is to provide you with an immersive and informative experience, ensuring you witness the magic of Chichen Itza in all its glory, and still have you back at the hotel before 4pm.

• Early Morning Exploration: We kick off your adventure bright and early, ensuring you’re among the first to step into the mystical world of Chichén Itzá. Revel in the crisp morning air and capture stunning photos devoid of large crowds in the background.
• Intimate Groups: We maintain small tour groups to guarantee a personalized and comfortable experience for all participants. This allows for meaningful interactions with our knowledgeable guides, providing you the opportunity to inquire and uncover the mesmerizing secrets of this Maya wonder.
• Seamless Exploration: Our tour is designed to be a seamless exploration of Chichen Itza, with no detours or interruptions (No Shopping Stops). We are dedicated to making the most of every moment at this remarkable site.
• Return to Leisure: After an enlightening exploration, you’ll be back at your hotel early, leaving you ample time to unwind, relax, or engage in other exciting activities. Explore Chichén Itzá in a way that ensures you won’t encounter the usual crowds.

Join us on the Chichen Itza Sunrise Discovery for an unforgettable journey into the heart of ancient Mexico. Embrace the magic, the mystery, and the history of this iconic site, all while ensuring you return to your hotel with cherished memories by 4pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the wonders of Chichen Itza like never before!

Tour Time Table

* Times can vary depending the conditions.

05:30 AM - 06:30 AM

06:00 am - 07:00 am, 09:15 am - 12:00 pm, 03:30 pm - 04:30 pm, cancel up to 24 hs before your tour for a full refund..

100% refund will apply in the following cases:

• If the service is canceled by the supplier. For example in case of bad weather and rescheduling is not possible. Due to illness, presenting a doctor's report.
• If the cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the day of the tour.
• If a date change is requested at least 24 hours prior to the date of the tour and a new date cannot be agreed upon.

50% refund will apply:

• If the cancellation is made after 5pm (local time) the day before the tour.
• If a date change is requested after 5pm (local time) on the day before the tour, and a new date cannot be agreed upon.

No refunds will apply:

• If the client does not show on the date and time of the tour.

Photo Gallery

About Chichen Itza Sunrise Discovery

General tour questions, reservations, is food included in the tour package.

Yes, we include a convenient lunch package in the tour. It typically consists of a delicious sandwich and fresh fruit, allowing you to refuel quickly and continue your exploration of Chichen Itza without delays.

Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?

Yes, the Chichen Itza Sunrise Express tour is suitable for all age groups. However, please keep in mind that the tour involves some walking, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

How long does the tour last?

Depending on the location of your hotel he tour typically begins early in the morning between 05:00 am and 07:00 am and returns you to your hotel by 03:00 pm and 5:00 pm. This allows you to have the afternoon for relaxation or other activities. It will take us about 3 hours to get you to Chichen Itza.

Are there any shopping stops during the tour?

No, our Chichen Itza Sunrise Express tour is designed to be uninterrupted. We do not make any shopping stops, ensuring you have a focused and immersive experience at the archaeological site and be back as early as possible in your hotel.

Why is early access important?

Early access allows you to experience Chichen Itza before the crowds arrive, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the site in a peaceful and serene atmosphere. You can witness the mesmerizing sunrise and capture stunning photos without the distraction of large crowds.

What is the Chichen Itza Sunrise Express tour?

The Chichen Itza Sunrise Express is a guided tour that provides you with early access to the Chichen Itza archaeological site. Our goal is to offer a comprehensive and educational exploration of this ancient Maya wonder.

Why is Chichén Itzá a must see during your stay in Cancun?

Chichén Itza is considered one of the 7 wonders of the world. It was declared World Heritage by Unesco in 1988. It’s one of the main attractions of México, in his area you will see different buildings like the Mil columns temple, Astronomic observatory, ball game courts, and the famous Piramide of Kukulcan.

Chichén Itzá allows us to learn about the customs, traditions, religion, and other aspects of the Maya culture.

Do you pick me up from my Airbnb or Private residence?

Yes, we will happily schedule your pickup from your Airbnb or Private Excursion. As soon as you arrive at your destination let us know your exact location. For some locations, we have special nearby meeting points.

Can I be dropped off at another hotel or location?

Please ask our Ocean Tours Team before booking if you want to be dropped off at another location. We will try our best to accommodate your request. We cannot take luggage like suitcases and backpacks on our coach excursion. We can accommodate you on our Private Excursion.

How safe are my belongings whilst on the trip?

We take all the precautions we can to make sure your belongings are safe; our guides will recommend the places where you can leave your belongings safely. Please take in mind that we can only take small bags with personal items you need on the excursion. In our coach, we cannot take suitcases or backpacks.  If you need to move from one hotel to the other on the day of your excursion a Private Trip will be perfect for you.

I have special dietary requirements – will they be catered for?

Please let us know at the time of booking of any food requirements or allergies and we’ll pass the information to our provider. We offer vegetarian and gluten-free options without any cost, but please let us know, as we need to know this at least 24 hours before the excursion starts.

Which language does my guide speak?

All our guides speak English and Spanish. 

We also have international staff, and we can offer our excursions on specific days with other languages like German, French, Italian Dutch, Polish, and Russian. If you want another language guide, please contact our customer service.  Spanish and English language is always available.

Can I skip the transportation and take my own car?

Although we recommend our hassle-free transportation from your hotel or Airbnb you can take your car and leave the car at a meeting point. In between the activities, we will take you with our transportation and after the excursion, we bring you back to the car. Please take note that parking fees are not included. Please contact our customer service if you want to bring your own car.

How many people can sign up for an excursion?

In our excursions, we create small groups so that you can enjoy the freedom of movement and be able to interact closely with your surroundings, as well as so that you can receive more personalized attention from our guides. This small size ensures that your group will not encroach on your personal experience. Most of our transportations fits 12 persons but some of our excursions involve boat trips, which may have specific capacity limitations.

May I tip the driver and guide? Is it obligatory?

Although not obligatory, it's standard practice in Mexico, and for many of our visitors is a form of thanks on finishing the excursion, always when the service and attention of these professionals have been as expected or has surpassed your expectations.

But we repeat, this is NOT OBLIGATORY.

Can people with disabilities participate in the excursion?

Our existing itineraries are not specifically designed for travelers with disabilities, but that doesn’t mean you will not be able to enjoy one of our small group excursions – it’s largely dependent on your specific needs and the location you wish to visit.

Some destinations are better suited for travelers with disabilities than others. Many destinations we visit lack accessible public infrastructure or facilities designed to accommodate travelers with disabilities, but we will do our best to arrange suitable alternatives where possible.  

You may also prefer to speak to our Customer Service and arrange a customized itinerary to suit your needs.

Do you offer photos from the snorkeling excursion?

Of course! On most of our tours, professional photographer will do their best to make your day with Ocean Excursions as memorable as possible. They carry top-quality (underwater) cameras and take high-resolution photos of both participants and their surroundings. You can view the pictures after your excursion and decide if you want to purchase them. The images are sold as a package, where you receive access to all the photos taken by your guide and our "Best Ocean Tours Excursions" collection folder, all of which will be made available to you via a link . The price for the photo package depends on the group size of your booking. For 2 persons the package is $66 USD and for 6 persons the package is $106 USD. Private Tours have different pricing depending on your group size  and tour. 

Can I take my (underwater) camera to the excursion?

You are free to take your own photos or video on tour with us, but we ask, while snorkeling, that your equipment is attached to your body in one way or another, for example with a wrist band. We do however not advise that you take your phone in a waterproof case, because it is generally not possible to operate it whilst doing the activities. At all archeological sites non-professional cameras are permitted at no cost. Video cameras GoPro tablets and selfie sticks have a charge which is paid directly at the box office upon entry. The use of professional photography equipment is strictly prohibited - including tripods. 

We do not take any responsibility of lost or damage photography gear that may happen on tour with us.

Can I pay for a reservation in someone else’s name?

Yes. For your protection and security, we will request a copy of your identification and a copy of the credit card with which you made the payment. You can send this by email to [email protected] or we will ask for it when you board our tour.

I think I made the payment, but I do not receive your confirmation. What should I do?

Usually, if confirmation does not arrive, first: Look first in your UNWANTED email folder (SPAM), if you do not find our confirmation in that folder, you probably have misplaced/misspelled your email. In this case, contact us and we will help you solve it.  

What if the trip I have my heart set on is sold out?

Sometimes, it happens that our tours are sold out. Especially during high seasons and holidays. Just because a tour is sold out doesn’t mean you are out of options for taking the trip of your dreams. If we can make it happen, we will. Please call our Customer Service at +52 984 206 1444. They will try to accommodate your request or let you know about newly added departure dates that might work with your schedule.

What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that plans change. That’s why, when you book with us, you have the flexibility to change your travels and re-book when it suits you. Change or cancel your travel plans up to 24 hours before departure, with no fees.  Cancellation requests made within 24 hours of the departure date/time may not receive a refund.

Why should I book now?

We advise you to book our tours now as we have many requests! The number of participants in each excursion is limited. Discounts will only be available for early bookings.

Can I take a tour with a larger group than the website allows me to book at once?

All of our tours have their own limits when it comes to the number of people they can accommodate. If your group is larger than the allowed number on our website for a specific tour, please contact our customer service team to find a suitable option for your group. They will be able to help you arrange the perfect trip for your group, regardless of size.

Can I make a telephone reservation?

You can always phone us on any of the numbers given on our website to make a reservation; however, to guarantee your seats, you should pay 20% of the total cost of the reservation.

How can I pay?

We have various payment options:

You can pay for the service completely by Credit or debit card or

PayPal (This is very simple and only takes a minute).

You can also pay us only a 20% deposit to confirm your reservation. The balance due can be paid directly to our guide in cash (USD, MXN, EURO) or with a credit card. 

None of these forms of payment will increase the total price, excepting possible charges by your own bank.

How do I know you are a legitimate company?

We have been in the business for more than 16 years. Thousands of people have now taken our excursions.

You can read the thousands of verified traveler reviews on our website, and on other 3rd party sites, like TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook. You can also just call us anytime and speak to one of our friendly members of staff!

We also invite you to have a look at and engage with our Social Media pages:

What to Bring:

If your pickup is early, it is a good idea to bring some bars and snacks especially when traveling with kids.

Comfortable shoes

This can be (sport) sandals or tennis

Official identification with photograph of the holder of the credit card with which the payment was made

or a readable copy of both sides

Wear lightweight, light-colored, comfortable clothing

Comfortable, lightweight clothes, and long-sleeved-cotton shirt

What’s Included:

Certified bilingual guide, potable water, round-trip transportation.

Round-Trip Transportation with AC

Lunch package

Enjoy a satisfying sandwich, snacks and fruit during the drive.

Why With Us:

Our first concern is the total satisfaction of our clients, we are dedicated.

We are dedicated to make your tour a memorable one. Our customer-centric approach aims to exceed your expectations.

We are Experienced

We have over 15 years of experience in operating tours as Ocean Tours started in year 2005.

We are Professional

Our guides are enthusiastic, experienced, and knowledgeable. The whole team will make your tour unforgettable.

We are Safe

Our professional guides are certified in First-Aid. Our transportation is very safe and comfortable, and our drivers are very experienced.

We are the Tour Operator

Every service and every part of the tour is directly operated by Ocean Tours. This is why we’re able to guarantee excellent and high-quality service. Most of the web pages you see are simply selling tours as a middle-man, providing little to no guarantee of quality, safety, or assurance. Here, you buy directly from the tour operator.

We strive to be the Best

We are rated excellent on Tripadvisor, Google, and other rating platforms thanks to our commitment to excellence.

All inclusive

Our packages often include essentials like transportation, entrance fees, guided tours, and refreshments, making your planning hassle-free.

Early Access

Be among the first to enter Chichen Itza. Our early morning tours let you experience the magic of sunrise and explore the site in the tranquil morning light, free from crowds.

No Interruptions

Unlike other tours, we prioritize your exploration. With us, there are no shopping stops, delays, or distractions. You get a seamless, uninterrupted journey through Chichen Itza.

Small Groups

We keep our tour groups small to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience for all participants. This allows for meaningful interactions with our guides and a chance to ask questions.

Our Guides:

Cesar (salad), make it a trip.

Combine this tour with other activities and save time during checkout!

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Chichén Itzá: Our Sunrise Tour to a World Wonder

One of the Seven World Wonders. A World Heritage Site. A Landmark of the region. The fact that the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá are a unique magnet for visitors goes without saying. The good news though: There is a secret tip to escape the mass crowds – and that’s called sunrise.

Whilst during the day, people are climbing up each other’s feet – you have one of the World Wonders almost exclusively to yourself at sunrise . We are still speechless when we look at the photos of our sunrise tour. Not in a hundred years would we have expected this experience to be so magical .

However, since the area officially opens its doors only at 8am, it takes a little preparation to see Chichén Itzá before everyone else. In this blog article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about visiting Chichén Itzá at sunrise.

Important note: Currently (as of April 2022) it is not possible to book sunrise tours! We are in contact with our guide and will let you know as soon as this changes again. The Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows are also currently being renovated and are closed.

1. Mayan Ruins Chichén Itzá: Info & Overview

2. sunrise at chichén itzá: our secret tip to beat the crowds, 3. around chichén itzá: cenote ik kil, 4. our hotel tip: mayaland hotel & bungalows.

Chichén Itzá is one of the Seven New Wonders of the World and is also one of the most important Mayan sites of all times. The photos are a bit deceptive: The highlight of the staircase pyramid called El Castillo , is just one of many attractions that awaits you in Chichén Itzá.

Unfortunately, the pyramid (like all other ruins in Chichén Itzá) can not be entered anymore . The climb of the pyramid was still allowed many years ago, but is now strictly prohibited.

By the way: if you don’t speak much Spanish (like us) and wonder how “Chichén Itzá” is actually pronounced, it basically sounds like “Chit Itzá” – with an emphasis on the “a”.

Where is Chichén Itzá and where should I stay?

Chichén Itzá is located in the interior of the Yucatán peninsula, near the tiny town of Pisté. It takes about two hours by car from Tulum or Playa del Carmen, 1.5 hours from Mérida and 45 minutes from Valladolid (the next largest city). So theoretically, you can easily stay overnight in one of the above listed cities and visit Chichén Itzá as a day trip.

You notice: we say “theoretically”. In our opinion, we think that it is definitely worth staying overnight near the ruins .

There are some hotels located between Pisté (the nearest town) and the archaeological site. Some are so close to the entrance of Chichén Itzá that you can even walk to it.

We chose Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows – the closest hotel to Chichén Itzá. Best decision ever! The hotel even has a separate entrance to Chichén Itzá. We were able to look out from our room (#301) to a view of the observatory (El Caracol). You can find more information about the hotel at the end of this article.

How much time should I plan for Chichén Itzá?

We recommend you to plan about three hours on site for your visit to Chichén Itzá. Of course you can also do it in less time, but there are some other buildings to see aside from the main pyramid (El Castillo). Three hours is rather generous, so two hours would also be fine.

What are the main attractions in Chichén Itzá?

The most important and most photographed building in Chichén Itzá is the Pyramid of Kukulcán , also called El Castillo . The pyramid is also the first ruin you pass during your tour. It is 30 metres high, has 365 steps and was used by the Mayans as a calendar according to current knowledge. Crazy, right? If you find someone who claps his hands in front of the ruin site, there is a reason for this: Those who clap loudly with their hands, creates the sound of a bird with the echo.

Twice a year at El Castillo, there is a special spectacle for the visitors: in spring and autumn, on a particular day and night, the sun shines on the pyramid at a special angle. This creates a shadow figure, reminiscent of a crawling snake. Warning: On these two days, you have to prepare for the fact that Chichén Itzá is going to be crazy busy.

Northwest of the Kukulcán Pyramid lies the Gran Juego de Pelota , the former sports ground of the Mayas. Apparently, they played their very own ball sport here. On the walls of the square are some temples and the most well-known one is the Templo de los Jaguares (Jaguar Temple).

The grand Templo de los Guerreros (warrior temple) is another highlight, with the Grupo de las Mil Columnas (hall of the 1000 columns) right next to it. There are some very impressive structures to admire.

And then of course there’s El Caracol (the observatory), which you can see in the photo below. We were lucky enough to have a view of the observatory directly from our room.

When is the best time to visit?

The absolute worst time you could visit, is during lunch time hours. By 10 am latest, it starts to become crazy hectic. This is when the the buses of the cruise-guests, as well as the visitors of the Riviera Maya reach the area and the sightseeing becomes a park of tour groups and souvenir stands.

We did not have lunch here ourselves, as we had seen Insta Stories of Chichén Itzá during this time and were pretty shocked – to put it nicely. Kathi’s dad was also there around lunchtime last year and advised us from the beginning, not to make the same mistake.

One way to avoid the big crowds is to visit at 8am , which is when the area is officially open and you can experience Chichén Itzá before the big crowds – which tend to fill up the area relatively quickly.

That’s why we started looking for alternative times to visit and found what we were looking for: supposedly at sunrise , you can have the archaeological zone to yourself. We researched, decided, and booked. So, that you can also experience Chichén Itzá at sunrise, we’ll share with you our experience in the next section below.

About one year ago, they opened up the Chichén Itzá for visitors at sunrise. However, this new tour is (still) not heavily advertised. Every website that we researched in advance, stated only that the official opening hours were from 8 am to 5 pm. Only when you read in a little more detail, do you realise that some talked about a sunrise visit.

We also get the feeling that the sunrise tours are not entirely ‘official’ for some reason. Why? First of all, only a few select tour guides pass through the area and our own guide even confirmed that just a few have this special permission. Whether it’s true, we can not say – but our guide was very familiar with the guards. When asked if he knows all the people here, he replied “I know everybody here.” We assume that the guards get a certain “tip” for allowing tourists into the area so early.

A sunrise tour is an expensive venture. We researched for a long time and still found no way to get the tour to less than 1,500 Pesos per person (almost 70 Euros).

Important Information & Tips for Sunrise Tour at Chichén Itzá

Where can i book a sunrise tour and how much does it cost.

Option 1: Through the Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows . This was the place we stayed at and upon check-in, we were asked if we might be interested in a sunrise tour. The price for this was 1,500 Pesos per person.  

Note: we had previously contacted the hotel via email and enquired about doing this tour. Somehow, we received a ridiculously high quote of $384 USD per person. No idea which (drunk?) staff member was behind this response – or perhaps there was a typo? The fact remains, that we were offered the same tour at the hotel for 1,500 Pesos each (roughly $78 USD)

Option 2: About our guide “Abel”.  We did some research on the internet and found the contact number of a guide named Abel in one of the forums. Then we simply wrote to him via WhatsApp and he responded within a few minutes. His price: 1,500 Pesos per person. Only later did we realise that he is also the guide for the hotel we were at – so we would have gotten the same person anyway.

Abel has worked for decades as a guide in Chichén Itzá. He was very friendly and extremely experienced. There was really nothing he did not know. However, we can not leave a certain aspect unmentioned: we got the feeling that he really knows how to “sell things” well. For example, we contacted him via WhatsApp, requesting a private tour (and were promised it would just be the two of us). We had specifically requested for this, because from our experience, we know that we need much more time for photos and videos than other people do. On the morning of our tour, we were suddenly four people, but the price remained the same. Unfortunately that left a negative impression. Nonetheless, we would still recommend him. He is very trustworthy and have no doubt that he will show up and deliver what he promises.

Option 3: About GetYourGuide  –   Sunrise at Chichén Itzá of Cancún or Sunrise at Chichén Itzá of Mérida

Can I go to the area without a guide?

No – at least not to our knowledge. You can of course try your luck at the entrance, but we are unsure that the security guards will let you through.

How long does the sunrise tour take?

The tour start at about 4:45 am and goes until roughly 8 am, so in total about three hours. At the beginning of the tour it is still pitch black and with luck you can see a beautiful starry sky. Then it starts to dim down quite quickly, before gradually becoming brighter. The exact timing of the sunrise varies slightly. During our visit (December) the sun rose at around 6:15 am.

You can definitely stay longer in this area if you like, it’s no problem. But we felt that after three hours, we had seen and captured what we had come for – and it certainly didn’t disappoint!

Besides Chichén Itzá, the other attraction , which gets a lot of attention from visitors in this region is: the Cenote Ik Kil. And when we say “a lot of attention,” we really mean it. It is true that most tour operators combine the visit of Chichén Itzá and the Cenote in their itinerary. Therefore, the Cenote is completely overflowed by 11am at the latest.

So our masterplan was to drive with the rental car to the Cenote Ik Kil, right after our sunrise tour at Chichén Itzá. The Cenote opens its doors at 9 am. We were the very first guests along with two other boys, so we basically had the Cenote for ourselves!

We have often read reviews of people being very disappointed in the Cenote Ik Kil. Granted, that’s totally understandable given the size of the crowds that come here in the afternoon. Nor does it help that the area of the Cenote is reminiscent of some sort of amusement park . As we had the luxury of enjoying the Cenote in peace, we found this place very impressive. With the lianas hanging down, the mood here is simply magic.

Information about the Cenote Ik Kil

Admission: 150 Pesos per person Hours: 9am to 5pm (our tip: come at 9am!) Arrival: approx. 5 minutes by car from Chichén Itzá

We stayed one night at the Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows , which we can highly recommend. You can’t find a place closer to Chichén Itzá than this. The hotel is located almost directly on the area of ​​Chichén Itzá . More specifically, it only takes you about 5 minutes to walk from the hotel entrance to Chichén Itzá. By the way, this is a separate entrance for hotel guests only , which means you do not have to queue at the main gate because you can easily reach the World Wonder via this side entrance.

Our room was on the third floor in the main building (no elevator, room number 301). The decor is not exactly of modern standards, but still of very high quality. In any case, we felt very comfortable . The best part was our balcony, from which we had a direct view across to the observatory (El Caracol), located on the same site as the ruins.

The hotel area is expansive, well maintained, had a tropical garden with several pools, bungalows and other buildings. Breakfast is served à la carte in one of the outdoor restaurants. We also dined here the evening before and found that the staff was very friendly and accommodating on both occasions.

Conclusion: We would definitely come back here again and this place comes highly recommended, especially if you want to see Chichén Itzá at sunrise or visit early in the morning.

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we will receive a small commission. For you, this does not change the price at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Have you also visited Chichén Itzá? What was your impression? We look forward to your comments on this article, below. Thank you so much!

You might also be interested in this

The Most Beautiful Cenotes of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

Playa del Carmen: Travel Guide & Our Honest Experience

Road Trip through Yucatán in Mexico: Our 3 Week Travel Itinerary

78 responses.

Could you please share Abel’s WhatsApp with me? Thank you so much!

Hello Echo, sorry there are currently no sunrise tours. :( All he best, Kathi & Romeo

Hello! Would you be so kind as to share Abel’s contact info as well on WhatsApp? Thank you!

Hello Christine, unfortunately there are still no sunrise tours, sorry! :( We wish you a great trip! Kathi & Romeo

Hola, I will be at Chichen Itza soon and I’m really interested to the sunrise visit. Looking for Abel numbers, please if you can give it to me I will appreciate a lot. And btw thanks for your dettailed blog, I’m following your suggestions on my upcoming Yucatan tour …

Stefano, Italy

Dear Stefano, we spoke to our guide today. We’re sorry but there are no sunrise tours at the moment. Nevertheless we wish you a great trip! Best regards, Kathi & Romeo

Also looking for Abel’s WhatsApp number / contact details please. The email I found for him bounced. Thanks

Hi James, sorry for our late reply. We just wrote you an e-mail. Hope it’s not too late. Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

Hi please could you send me able’s number thanks

Hi Chloe, We sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

Hi, thanks for sharing this useful info! Love your blog! As everyone else, Do you mind sharing Abel’s phone number? My husband and I will going in August. Thanks so much!

Hi, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

Thank you so much for all the helpful information! Would you mind sharing Abel’s contact information? Would really appreciate it :)

Hi Julia, We sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

Hi Kathi, Thanks for sharing your info. Would it be possible to get Abel’s info? Thanks again, Lorin

Hi Lorin, We sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

Hi, thanks for the useful info! Do you mind sharing Abel’s phone number? Thanks so much!

Hi Söl, We sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

Thanks for all the info about chichen Itza!! This article is super useful :) Would you mind sharing Abels’ WhatsApp number? Thank you

Hi Leen, We sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hi thanks for sharing your trip. Could you please send me Abels number too? Thanks!

Hi Natalie! We Sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

Hello Kathi and Romeo — What a wonderful blog! Thanks for sharing. I’m giving myself a few days in Playa del Carmen this week and I’m trying to see if I can check out the sunrise tour one of the days. Can you email me Abel’s contact info? Thanks!

Hi Viraj, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hello! I loved your pictures, do you mind sharing Abel’s info? Thanks in advance

Hi, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Loved reading your blog.Please share ables contact details.Thank you.

We sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hi! Thank you so much for sharing your sunrise tour with us! Could I please get Abel’s contact info?

Hi Andrea, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

This looks amazing! My husband and I are leaving for Tulum in 5 days, and Chichen Itza is at the top of our list. Would you mind sending Abels contact info? Sunrise tour looks perfect!

Hi Rebecca, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

Hi Kathi! I love your photos! They really look so great! And your text is so helpful. I would also go for the sunrise tour in February. Could you also send me the Abels WhatsApp number? Thank you sooo much! :) Keven

we sent you an e-mail :)

Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Beautiful blog! Planning a trip there soon. Would love to get Abel’s contact if you can!

Hi Adrian, sorry for our late reply. We sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Love your blog! Thank you for sharing your Yucatan experience. I’m going to be going next week! Can I get Abel’s contact info as well? Thanks a lot.

we sent you an e-mail. :)

I’ve been to Chichen Itza twice in the past and yes, it can getvbisy like a zoo! My family and I are planning to visit Chitchen Itza in November. I would like to do it your way. May I have Abel’s contact number and e-mail?

Hi Maria, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hi Kathi & Romeo,

Loved your blog about Chichén Itzá !! My Girlfriend and I are planning a trip there mid November and would love to experience the tour you did with Abel, it sounds absolutely amazing. Was wondering if by any chance we could get Abel email & Whatsapp to contact him to see if it would be possible to do the same. Thanks so much for your help & advice Sincerely, Nico & Sveta

Hi Nico & Sveta, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hello, thank you for your blog and the sunrise information. We will be a group of 4 in mid December n I would like to have Abel whatsapp info for a sunrise tour please

Hi Elon, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hello We are heading to Chichen Itza in August , would you be able to pass Abels info to me. Thank you

Hi Wendy, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

I would love to get Abel’s email too. Thank you.

Hi Chris, we sent you an email. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hi, Great article. I’m looking for the same thing everyone else is Abel’s Number. Thanks

Hi, we sent you an e-mail! Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Thanks for the inside scoop. I was wondering about the sunrise tours seeing as it doesn’t officially open until 8am. Could you send us Abel’s contact info? Thanks!

Hi Jessica, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hello, wonderful article! I’m glad I came across this and thank you! We are in Cancun now and would love to do the sunrise tour with Abdel. Could you please send us his number?

Hello, Sorry I didn’t receive the email, could you please send it again?

We just sent it again. :)

Hi Sarah, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hello, I am hoping to visit Chichen Itza this weekend and would love Abel’s number as well!

Hi Kelsey, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

We are visiting Chichen Itza this April and I’m so happy that I found your blog! I was doubting between entering at 8 or the sunrise, but no I’m sure to book the sunrise tour. But the tour with the hotel and with Abel are both 1500 pesos? Or is Abel private? Of yes can you provide me with his details? Many thanks in advance.

Hi Léonie, you will basically end up with the same tour. A tour with Abel isn’t a private one. (Though you can ask him if he offers a private one.) :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hi, Thank you for the information above, it sounds amazing :) We will be visiting Mexico in April this year and would like to do the sunrise Chichen Itza tour. Could you share with us as well the number of Abel ?

Thanks and Regards, Catalin

Hi Catalin, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hey ihr beiden, cooler Blog und super hilfreiche Infos! Könntet ihr mir bitte auch die Nummer von Abel schicken? LG nach Wien :)

Hi, wir haben dir eine E-Mail geschickt. :) Liebe Grüße, Kathi & Romeo

Hi Kathi & Romeo, Thanks for this article, Ive been desperately searching for info on a sunrise visit to Chichen itza. Would really appreciate your guides number. Cheers! -Neha

Hi Neha, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hi guys, awesome review. Could I have Abel’s contact info too? Thanks!

Hi Foxie, we just sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hi. Great info! We would also like to do the sunrise tour. Could you please send us Abel’s number?

Hi, we sent you an e-mail with his number. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Hi Kathi and Romeo,

Thank you for the information above, it sounds amazing! My boyfriend and I loved to read about it. Could you maybe share with us the number of Abel So that we could contact him?

Kind regards, Pien.

Hi, we’ve sent you an e-mail. :) Have a great trip! Kathi & Romeo

hey thanks for all the information about chichen Itza! it was great my girlfriend and I were wondering if you would share Abels WhatsApp number so that we could message him for our own sunrise tour when we go. If you could that would be great! Thank you!

Hi, we’ve sent you an e-mail. :) Have a great trip! Kathi & Romeo

I was wondering if you would mind sharing Abel’s what’s app number with me as well. That would be super helpful. Thank you!

Hi Anne, we sent you an e-mail. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

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Private Early Access Guided Tour of Chichen Itza with Lunch Buffet

Quick Details

• Globe Region: Mexico
• Map Marker Location: Cancún
• Hour Glass Duration: 10 hours
• Tag Tour Type: Private Tour

Private Sunrise Chichen Itza Tour – Experience the Majesty of the Maya Civilization

With this magnificent and complete tour, avoid the crowds and get the most knowledge of the archaeological site of Chichen Itza . Arriving at the site, a specialized guide will give you a detailed and in-depth tour so you can enjoy the tranquility of your morning visit before most of the crowds arrive.

Throughout the tour, your guide will provide the essential archaeological background so you better understand the history of Chichen Itza . Discover how this large pre-Columbian city played an important role in the Maya civilization around 600 AD to 1200 and remained a center of worship and pilgrimage until the arrival of the Spaniards.

Even today, it is still considered sacred by the Maya people of the Yucatan site. Like many of the cities of ancient Mexico, the site was abandoned, and its ruins were hidden in the jungle.

This archaeological site has earned the protection of UNESCO and today it’s considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This early morning access to Chichen Itza helps you avoid the crowds and the heat!

Note: By government order, in case you want to enter the archaeological site with mobile devices (GoPro, professional camera, selfie stick, and drones) you must pay an additional fee per device at the ticket office.

Discover the Secrets of Chichen Itza Before the Crowds Arrive

Highlights:

• Early access with a certified archaeologist
• Avoid crowds of visitors in Chichen Itza
• Avoid hot weather
• Exclusive and primary information provided by a professional

Inclusions:

• Roundtrip transportation from your hotel
• Proffesional and private guide
• Entrance fee to the site
• Lunch Buffet with delicious mexican food
• Optional gratuities
• Chichen Itza CULTUR tax (39 USD adults, 6 USD children)
• Locker and life vest (mandatory) at cenote

Related Tours

• Exclusive Access
• Tag Shared Tour
• Hour Glass 12 hours
• Map Marker Cancún

Chichen Itza Early Access Tour with Lunch Buffet & Tequila Tasting

Avoid the crowds and heat on this Chichén Itzá sunrise tour! Learn about this amazing archeological site that’s considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Chichen Itza Tour: Cenote, Valladolid, Tequila Tasting & Buffet lunch

Learn about the history of Chichen Itza and the Maya civilization on this Cancun tour. Your experience includes a swim in a sacred cenote, a visit to Valladolid, a Tequila Tasting and a delicious buffet lunch

Home » Travel Guides » Mexico » 15 Best Chichén Itzá Tours

15 Best Chichén Itzá Tours

Chichén Itzá is an important archeological site located on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It is a great spot for discovering the history, culture, and traditions of ancient Mayan civilization.

There are many guided tours available around the vast site, as well as around other important attractions in the area. These are a great option to gain a more in-depth understanding of the area, and allow you to conveniently get from most major tourist resorts to the site without having to rely on public transportation.

These are the 15 best tours you can take to Chichén Itzá.

1. Chichén Itzá, Ik Kil Cenote and Valladolid Full Day Tour

This tour gives you a great cultural experience of the region that Chichén Itzá is in. Start off with a trip to the Mayan monument and a guided tour around the ruins. You will then be taken to the Ik Kil Cenote.

Cenotes are sinkholes filled with water and have amazing natural beauty as well as interesting geological formations. You will be provided a buffet meal at the nearby village and given a demonstration on how some Mayan cuisine was produced.

You will also have a short stopover in Valladolid to take in some of the local Mexican culture.

2. Chichén Itzá Sunrise Tour

Sunrise is probably the most rewarding time to visit Chichén Itzá, but getting there on your own in time can be difficult.

This tour will pick you up nice and early from Cancún before continuing to the archeological site just in time to watch the sunrise behind the main pyramid. This is excellent for photo opportunities and a truly beautiful sight to behold.

The dedicated guide – who can speak both Spanish and English – will then show you around the rest of the attraction. A box lunch is provided on board so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.

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3. Chichen Itzá, Ik Kil and Coba Small Group Tour

This tour takes you to Chichen Itzá and Ik Kil sinkhole, as well as on a short trip to Coba. Coba is filled with other interesting archeological sites from the Mayan empire, including high pyramids that you can climb and take photos from.

Your local guide will help you uncover the history and culture surrounding all the attractions, and all your entrance fees are included.

The tour also includes breakfast and a lunch provided at a typical Mexican restaurant.

4. Chichén Itzá All Inclusive with Hubiku Cenote and Valladolid

The first stop on this tour is the Hubiku Cenote. Here you will be able to explore the unique geological formations of the cenote, as well as enjoy a quick swim in the clear waters.

The tour then continues on to Chichén Itzá where your skilled tour guide will discuss ancient Mayan culture and the significance of the monuments in the area.

You will also be able to enjoy a longer trip to Valladolid, where you can admire the colorful pastel buildings, boutique shops, and traditional restaurants.

5. Chichén Itzá Entrance Ticket with Hospitality Suite

If you are planning to make your own way to Chichén Itzá and want somewhere to relax after exploring the site, this entrance ticket gives you additional access to the facilities of the neighboring hotel.

The Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows is a gorgeous place to enjoy a stroll through the grounds; you can access the swimming pool and recreational areas as well as the hospitality suite.

This is a great way to add a touch of luxury to your trip to Chichén Itzá.

6. Chichen Itza, Hubiku and Ek Balam Tour

This tour takes a much more extensive dive into the culture of the ancient Mayan civilization.

Chichen Itza itself is the first stop; the guide is a specialist in the culture of the ancient civilization, giving you a great insight into their traditions and beliefs. You will be taken for a swim at Hubiku Cenote, and get to hear about the significance of the sinkhole to the Mayan people.

The tour finishes at Ek Balam, where you can admire the Acropolis style buildings and beautiful carvings made by the Talol Kingdom.

7. Chichén Itza Tour with Hotel Transfers

Stay in bed a little longer with this dedicated tour that will pick you up from your hotel in the area.

Chichén Itza is the main focus of this tour, with most of the time spent helping you gain a deep understanding of the monument and what it represents. You will also be taken to Suytun, where you can enjoy a swim in a sinkhole managed by an ecotourism agency. You will enjoy a complimentary buffet lunch at the site.

For the final stop of your tour, you will spend some time in Valladolid exploring the town at your own pace before being dropped off at your hotel.

8. Classic Chichén Itzá Day Tour from Cancún with Lunch

For those based in Cancún, this day tour is a tried and tested itinerary that is popular with many guests from across the world.

You will be given a fully guided tour of the ruins with in-depth explanations of what they all mean, before continuing on to Ik Kil Cenote to learn about the religious importance of the sinkholes to the Mayan people. Afterward, you will enjoy a traditional, Mayan-style lunch at Chichén Itzá.

Unlike other tours, this one includes a traditional song and dance performance for you to engage even more with Mayan culture.

9. Chichén Itzá Private Tour

If you want something more bespoke and private, this option allows you to arrange your own guide and customize your itinerary for your visit to Chichén Itzá.

The nine-hour tour can be conducted in six different languages, and you will be the only group shown around the area by your dedicated tour guide.

This guide is a professionally accredited expert on local archaeology and can provide some very in-depth insights into the importance of the area.

A buffet lunch is included, as well as snorkeling equipment for visits to the nearby Cenote.

10. Early Access Chichen Itza and Tulum 2-Day Tour

If you have more time on your hands, this tour takes you around the archeological site at a much more relaxed pace, as well as providing you with an additional trip to Tulum.

You will be given early access to Chichen Itza so you can admire the site before the majority of other tourists arrive; however, you will have the full day to explore the area at your own pace.

The second day is dedicated to Tulum – a walled city that has many interesting archaeological sites as well as fantastic views over the Caribbean.

11. Open the Gate to Chichen Itza with Mayan Planetarium

Astronomy was an important aspect of Mayan life, and this tour allows you to explore the way the stars shaped the lives within the ancient civilization.

You will have early access to the main site via a dedicated Mayaland Resort entrance, allowing you to check out the park before the rest of the tourists. Once you have finished exploring, you will be taken to a planetarium nearby to check out the Maya Skies exhibit.

This exhibit talks about the Mayan traditions that revolved around the night sky, as well as how the stars shaped their dating system.

12. Chichen Itza Full-Day Extended Tour from Cancún

If you are planning to visit from Cancún or Playa del Carmen, this bumper tour takes you on a much more extensive adventure around the main attractions in the area.

Aside from Chichén Itzá itself, you will visit the Ik-kil Cenote, where you can take a swim in the clear waters and learn about its significance to the Mayan civilization.

Your licensed guide will impart extensive knowledge about the main attractions in the site, including the Temple of One Thousand Columns. Your tour will finish up with a fully guided look at Valladolid.

13. Chichen Itza Tour Light and Sound Show with Cenote Ik Kil

At night, the Chichen Itza site lights up in a beautiful display that highlights the magnificence of the main attractions in the area.

This tour will begin with a fully guided daytime tour of the UNESCO site, before continuing on to a tour of the Ik Kil Cenote, where you can also go for a swim.

In between the tour and the light and sound show, you will have full access to the Mayaland Resort facilities, allowing you to unwind and relax ahead of the exciting show.

14. Chichen Itza, Xcaret, and Xel-Ha 3 Tours Combo Package

The Maya Riviera region has a lot more to offer and this package allows you to take three tours to Chichén Itzá, Xcaret and Xel-Ha.

The Chichén Itzá tour includes visits to Valladolid. Xcaret has an exclusive underground cenote that you can swim in at your leisure and enjoy a more eco-conscious tour.

At Xel-Ha, you will enjoy one of the most unique theme parks in the world that focuses on the local ecosystem. Meals and transportation are included for each tour.

15. Yucatan Overview: Chichén Itza and Uxmal 2-Day Tour

This is another great option if you are looking for a slower paced tour; it focuses on the major attractions of the Yucatan Peninsula.

The first day consists mostly of a tour of Chichén Itza, with plenty of time provided to listen to a knowledgeable tour guide as well as explore at your own pace.

Overnight accommodation is provided in Uxmal, and the second day is dedicated to the natural beauty of the town as well as other nearby towns on the Riviera Maya.

Meals are provided, as well as the use of the Mayaland Facilities whilst you are at Chichen Itzá.

15 Best Chichén Itzá Tours:

• Chichén Itzá, Ik Kil Cenote and Valladolid Full Day Tour
• Chichén Itzá Sunrise Tour
• Chichen Itzá, Ik Kil and Coba Small Group Tour
• Chichén Itzá All Inclusive with Hubiku Cenote and Valladolid
• Chichén Itzá Entrance Ticket with Hospitality Suite
• Chichen Itza, Hubiku and Ek Balam Tour
• Chichén Itza Tour with Hotel Transfers
• Classic Chichén Itzá Day Tour from Cancún with Lunch
• Chichén Itzá Private Tour
• Early Access Chichen Itza and Tulum 2-Day Tour
• Open the Gate to Chichen Itza with Mayan Planetarium
• Chichen Itza Full-Day Extended Tour from Cancún
• Chichen Itza Tour Light and Sound Show with Cenote Ik Kil
• Chichen Itza, Xcaret, and Xel-Ha 3 Tours Combo Package
• Yucatan Overview: Chichén Itza and Uxmal 2-Day Tour

Tour details

• What to bring

Chichen Itza Early Tour

Visit the Mayan ruins before anyone else

Chichen Itza is a must-see for anyone traveling to Mexico. With this Chichen Itza Early Tour , you will arrive before anyone else and avoid the crowds. This will allow you to enjoy the visit in peace and quiet, and you will also be able to contemplate the beautiful sight of the first rays of sunlight over the pyramid of Kukulkan.

You will discover the legends that this place hides thanks to an expert guide in archeology. In Chichen Itza itself, you will find a sacred cenote where the Mayas performed sacrifices and where human skeletons were found. 

Want to know more? This will be your day:

• Transfer in and out from the meeting points
• Professional bilingual guide
• Ticket to the archaeological zone of Chichen Itza
• Lunch Buffet with delicious mexican food
• Cenote entrance

Not included

• Government tax of 486 MXN per person (27 US$ approximately). It must be paid by credit card

Important information

Pick-up will take place at the indicated times at the following meeting points.

5:00 A.M. Bus stop at the Go Mart Villas del Rey supermarket, in front of the Crown Paradise Club Cancun Hotel 5:15 A.M. Bus stop at Beach Palace ® All Inclusive Resort Hotel 5:40 A.M. Bus stop at Presidente Intercontinental Hotel 5:50 A.M. Bus stop by Hotel Holiday Inn Las Perlas 6:10 A.M. Bus stop by Oasis Smart Hotel.

RIVIERA MAYA

5:00 A.M. Oxxo store, located next to the Pemex gas station in front of the Pentempich Bay 5:00 A.M. Entrance to Plaza Antigua Shopping Center 5:00 A.M. Circle K Supermarket, in front of Catalonia Royal Tulum Hotel 5:15 A.M. Tienda 7-Eleven in Puerto Morelos, next to the bridge 5:40 A.M. Oxxo store, located next to the Pemex gas station in front of the Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun hotel 5:40 A.M. Go Mart Supermarket in Puerto Aventuras 6:00 A.M. Entrance of Hotel HM Playa del Carmen

Remember to indicate the meeting point of your choice in the Notes section of the booking form.

Cancellation policy

Tour itinerary.

Departure: Every day

Total duration: 10 hours

Group size: maximum 9 travelers in the visit to Chichen Itza

Pick up at the meeting points

At 5:00 AM, the pickup of passengers will start. Be there 10 minutes before at the pick-up point of your choice. Once the whole group is gathered, we will depart to the archaeological site of Chichén Itza . Start one of the best days of your vacation!

Arrival at Chichén Itza

After a 200 km drive, we will arrive at Chichén Itza. Don't worry, the drive is entertaining and will fly by. You won't regret the early start when you see the pyramid of Chichén Itza , known as the pyramid of Kukulkán or El Castillo , illuminated by the first rays of sunlight.

The area will be clear of other travelers who visit much later, and the tour of the Mayan culture will be more peaceful. 

Discovering the archaeological zone

Together with an expert guide in archaeology, you will visit the ruins of Chichén Itza . He will reveal the great secrets hidden in this place and tell you about the Mayan history and culture. You will discover unimaginable curiosities.

Observatory, Temple of the Warriors and Wall of Skulls

Did you know that the Mayas played ball games that sometimes included human sacrifice? Yes, they were competitive in the game! During this first part of 90 minutes, the guide will take you through the observatory, the Temple of the Warriors and the Wall of Skulls among other places of this Mayan city.

Free time in Chichen Itza

After the guide's explanations, you will be able to enjoy the entire area on your own and take pictures. In addition, inside the same Mayan city, there is a hidden cenote that you can also visit.

Sacred Cenote of Chichén Itzá

It is a 60-meter diameter well that was considered by the Maya as a door to the underworld and the home of the gods. For this reason, gems, precious stones and even human bones were found in the sacrifices made in this place. Impressive, isn't it?

Transfer to Real Mayab

We will travel by road to the Real Mayab hotel, an authentic Mayan refuge. Here, you will be able to enjoy the buffet menu included in the tour. To finish our Chichen Itza Early Tour and with a full stomach, we will return to Cancun and Riviera Maya. You will still have free time in the afternoon since we will arrive between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. You have to make the most of your vacation time!

What to bring to Chichen Itza Early Tour

• Comfortable footwear
• Sunscreen and lipbalm
• Cash for possible additional expenses (Mexican pesos or US dollars)
• Mosquito repellent

Where does the tour Chichen Itza Early Tour start

Choose the pickup in the city of your choice, and don't forget to tell us the bus stop. We pick you up and bring you back, so you don't have to worry about anything.

Questions & Answers

What is the difference between visiting the ruins of tulum and chichen itza, can i swim in the sacred cenote of chichen itza, i'm still not sure where i want to meet. can i tell you later, chichen itza early tour tour reviews with howlanders, other tours that might interest you from mexico.

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