Explore Chichen Itza from Cancun: Top Travel Options

Located a mere 120 miles from Cancun, Chichen Itza stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Maya civilization and is a must-see day trip for visitors. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it's a major draw for tourists and a significant archaeological site.

Connecting Cancun to Chichen Itza is a straightforward highway, offering several travel options, including self-drive, tours, buses, and even flights. Here's a concise guide to each method.

1. From Cancun to Chichen Itza by Tour

Organized tours offer a hassle-free way to visit Chichen Itza, often including additional experiences like a swim in the Ik Kil cenote, a visit to Valladolid, lunch, and round-trip hotel transfers. These full-day excursions typically last about 12 hours, starting around 8am.

2. From Cancun to Chichen Itza by Car

Driving yourself is the most flexible option, taking about two hours each way. You can explore additional sights, like the colonial town of Valladolid or the region's famous cenotes. Car rentals in Mexico can be affordable, but watch out for additional insurance fees. Expect to pay around $30 to $50 a day. Remember to carry cash for tolls on highway 180.

3. From Cancun to Chichen Itza by Bus

The base of the feathered serpent pyramid at Chichen Itza

For budget travelers, the ADO bus service is safe and comfortable, costing about 50 MXN for a three-hour trip. Buses leave daily at 8:45am and return at 4:30pm, giving you around five hours at the site. Alternatively, buses to Valladolid offer more flexibility with connecting buses to Chichen Itza.

4. From Cancun to Chichen Itza by Air

Aerial view of the Temple of the Warriors, Chichen Itza

For a luxurious experience, consider flying to Chichen Itza. Private and shared flights offer an exclusive and time-efficient journey, with stunning aerial views of the landscape. Fly Tours Cancun is one of the companies offering such services.

5. From Cancun to Chichen Itza with a Private Guide

Ik-Kil Cenote, a popular stop on a Chichen Itza tour with a private guide

Private guides combine the convenience of a tour with the flexibility of self-travel. You can tailor the itinerary to your interests, avoid crowds, and have a more intimate experience. Private tours can range from eight to 11 hours and include comfortable, air-conditioned transportation, a cenote swim, and a buffet lunch.