Chichen itza, cenote and magic Izamal

This early-start tour from Mérida is built around Chichen Itza, a cenote run by a Mayan community and a visit to Izamal. Its main pitch is timing: the departure is at 5:50 am, which the operator says puts your group first inside Chichen Itza, before the crowds and the heat, with photo opportunities of the pyramid without people. Transportation is included.

At Chichen Itza you spend about 2 hours and 30 minutes with a specialized, licensed guide who explains the history and importance of this ancient Mayan city. Free time is part of that block, so you can wander and take pictures once the guided portion is over.

Next is a cenote that belongs to a Mayan community. The operator says it has not been modified like many others and is very natural for swimming. The cenote entrance fee is included, and the itinerary allots about 120 minutes for the swim and for lunch at the community's restaurant, where the menu focuses on Yucatecan cuisine.

The itinerary then gives about 60 minutes to walk the streets of Izamal, the yellow town, and climb a Mayan pyramid. After that the group returns to Mérida, a drive of about one hour on average, and is dropped off at the meeting point between 4 and 5 pm.

The tour is limited to 10 people maximum, which suits visitors who prefer a small group. It is listed as suitable for all physical fitness levels, but it is not recommended for pregnant travelers, and infants are required to sit on an adult's lap. Public transportation options are available nearby.

On board you get air conditioning, bottled water, tea and coffee, and the lunch mentioned above. Chichen Itza admission is not included and costs 697 MXN, so bring pesos for it. With a very early start and a long day, wear comfortable shoes and clothes for both heat and swimming.