Live the Chichen Itza and cool off in a Sacred Cenote

This guided day trip from Mérida goes to Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and adds a swim in a cenote and a stop in Valladolid. It lasts about 480 minutes and is led by a certified guide.

The guide waits for travelers at 8:00 a.m. at the meeting point at the end of Paseo de Montejo in Mérida, or picks you up at your hotel if requested. At Chichén Itzá you take a guided tour of the main structures, such as the Temple of Kukulkán, the Ball Game, the Temple of the Warriors and the Observatory. The guide explains the history and culture of the site, with free time for photos. The itinerary allots about 120 minutes for this stop.

Next the group goes to Saamal Cenote, a semi-open cenote surrounded by tropical vegetation, where you can swim in clear water. The guide gives safety recommendations and is available during the visit. Dressing rooms, bathrooms and life jackets are available on site, and the stay lasts about 2 hours.

The last stop is Valladolid, a colonial Magic Town. You can stroll through the historic center, see the Church of San Gervasio and the Francisco Cantón Rosado Main Park, sample a typical ice cream or buy local crafts. The stop lasts about 1 hour before returning to Mérida.

The tour suits couples, families and curious travelers who want to connect with Maya culture. It is not recommended for pregnant travelers or for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, and travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness. Infants are required to sit on an adult's lap.

Bottled water and air conditioning in the vehicle are included. Meals and admission fees are not, so budget for them. The description mentions regional food, but meals are listed as not included, so confirm this when you book. The operator contacts you one day before to confirm the pickup time; be ready at least 10 minutes early. If the meeting point is Paseo de Montejo, the guide waits in front of the restaurant Tropico 56 with a sign showing the tour information.