Jess at Sea

If you’re heading to Mexico’s Riviera Maya, a day trip to Chichén Itzá is an absolute must. This ancient Mayan city is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and trust me – it’s every bit as awe-inspiring as the photos. From the towering pyramid of El Castillo to the fascinating ball courts and sacred cenotes, a visit here is like stepping straight back in time.

I recently joined a full-day guided tour from Playa del Carmen that also included a refreshing swim at Chichikan Cenote – and it ended up being one of the highlights of my trip! Whether you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or just want those iconic “I was here” photos, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Chichén Itzá from Playa del Carmen or from Cancun.

Getting to Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is about 3 hours from Playa del Carmen or Cancun, making it totally doable as a day trip. You’ve got a few options:

• Guided Tour (Most Popular): The easiest and most stress-free way. You’ll usually get hotel pick-up, an expert guide, entrance tickets, and often extra stops (like cenotes or Valladolid). Perfect if you don’t want to deal with logistics. Check out this day tour from Playa del Carmen or this tour from Cancun.
• Rental Car: If you like the freedom to go at your own pace, renting a car is a good option. The roads are straightforward, and you can add stops like Valladolid or cenotes along the way. Just note that parking at Chichén Itzá can fill up fast.
• Public Transport: You can catch an ADO bus from Playa del Carmen to Valladolid and then transfer to a colectivo or taxi to Chichén Itzá. It’s budget-friendly but definitely takes longer and requires more planning.

I opted for a guided tour, which meant all I had to do was show up and enjoy the day!

Stop 1: Chichikan Cenote

Before arriving at Chichén Itzá, our tour made a stop at Chichikan Cenote, a hidden gem in the Yucatán jungle. If you’re not familiar, cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear groundwater – and swimming in one is one of the most magical experiences you can have in Mexico (especially to cool down from the heat!).

At Chichikan, you can climb down the stairs into a cavern-like pool surrounded by hanging vines and limestone walls. The water is cool, refreshing, and the perfect way to prepare for a hot day exploring the ruins. Don’t forget your swimsuit, towel, and water shoes (the steps can be slippery).

Stop 2: Exploring Chichén Itzá

Finally, the main event! Walking into Chichén Itzá and seeing El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán) in person gave me chills. This pyramid is the most iconic structure of the ancient Mayan city and was once used for astronomical, ceremonial, and religious purposes.

Here are a few highlights you shouldn’t miss:

• El Castillo: The famous step pyramid that dominates the site. During the spring and fall equinox, the shadow of a serpent appears slithering down the staircase – proof of the Mayans’ genius in astronomy.
• The Great Ball Court: The largest in Mesoamerica. Imagine ancient athletes playing an intense ballgame where, according to some theories, losers may have faced sacrifices.
• Temple of the Warriors: Rows of stone columns that once supported a massive roof, creating a dramatic space that shows the power of the Mayan civilization.
• Sacred Cenote: A large natural sinkhole where offerings (and sacrifices) were made to the gods.

Having a guide made the visit so much richer – I learned so much about Mayan history, architecture, and mythology that I would have completely missed on my own.

Tips for Visiting Chichén Itzá

• Go early or late if possible: Tours and crowds build up quickly. Morning or afternoon light also makes for the best photos. Our tour visited right before closing and it was perfect as most of the tour groups had already left!
• Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat: It gets very hot and there’s little shade on site.
• Cash is useful: For souvenirs, snacks, or if you want to tip your guide.
• Wear comfy shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
• Don’t skip Valladolid (if your tour includes it): This colorful colonial town is a great stop for lunch and wandering cobblestone streets.

Is a Day Trip from Playa del Carmen Worth It?

Absolutely! While it’s a long day, visiting Chichén Itzá and a cenote in one trip packs in history, culture, and adventure. By the time I returned to Playa del Carmen, I was exhausted – but in the best way.

Chichén Itzá is one of those once-in-a-lifetime destinations that deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list. Whether you choose a guided tour, drive yourself, or go the budget route, standing in front of El Castillo will be a memory you’ll never forget. Pair it with a cenote swim, and you’ve got the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

If you’re visiting the Riviera Maya area, don’t miss the chance to make this day trip – it’s one of the best things you can do in the Yucatán Peninsula.

Check out my full 1-Week Playa del Carmen Itinerary here!

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