Private Tour: Chichen Itza, Cenote & Izamal Magic Town by Yucatan Concierge

This private day tour from Mérida, run by Yucatan Concierge, goes to the Chichén Itzá archaeological site with an expert guide and continues to the colonial town of Izamal, one of Mexico’s Magic Towns. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and the group travels in its own vehicle.

At Chichén Itzá, about 240 minutes are scheduled. You visit the Castle or Pyramid of Kukulcán, named one of the seven wonders of the modern world, and see the Feathered Serpent, the largest ball court in Mesoamerica and the Observatory known as the Snail, where the ancient Maya made astronomical calculations. The visit also takes in the Sacred Cenote, where, according to the legend told on the tour, maidens were sacrificed to Chaac, the rain god, and the Temple of the Thousand Columns, a notable heritage of the Itzáes.

The itinerary then lists about 120 minutes at a park surrounded by exotic plants and trees, described as an ideal habitat for wild birds such as toucans, parrots, cenzontles, flycatchers, turquoise-browed motmots and cardinals. The source does not name the park; the listing’s title mentions a cenote, so confirm with the operator what this stop includes.

The last block, also about 120 minutes, is in Izamal. You see the Franciscan Convent of San Antonio de Padua, built over an ancient Maya pyramid and described as having the largest atrium in Latin America. Other archaeological structures are viewed during a carriage tour, including the pyramid of Kinich Kak Mo, which stands out for its height and its view of the city.

The operator recommends at least a moderate level of physical fitness and does not recommend the tour for pregnant travelers, people with spinal injuries or people with poor cardiovascular health. The price is per group for a maximum of 5 people, and you should tell the operator when booking if you need a special meal plan. Included are entry fees to Chichén Itzá, the cenote and the convent, bottled water, personalized pickup and a bilingual INAH-certified guide in English or Spanish. Gratuities, lunch and beverages are not. Bring comfortable clothes and walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, a camera and cash.