A cenote is a natural pool or well that is formed when limestone bedrock collapses, revealing groundwater underneath. These geological formations are unique to the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico and are deeply connected to the region’s cultural and ecological history. Cenotes were considered sacred by the ancient Mayans, often used for religious ceremonies and as a source of fresh water.
There are two main types of cenotes: open cenotes, which are large, open pools surrounded by lush vegetation, and cave cenotes, which are underground pools located in caves, offering a mystical experience with stalactites and stalagmites.
Cenotes are known for their crystal-clear waters, which are fed by underground rivers. They vary in size and depth, with some being ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or even diving. The water’s striking blue or turquoise colour is a result of the mineral-rich limestone that filters the water, making it incredibly clear.
Beyond their natural beauty, cenotes play a crucial ecological role, helping maintain the water table in the Yucatán Peninsula. Many cenotes are now part of eco-tourism activities, where visitors can explore, swim, or simply enjoy the surrounding environment. Popular cenotes like Ik Kil, Cenote Sagrado, and Cenote Dos Ojos have become must-visit attractions for travellers seeking adventure and a deep connection to the region’s natural history.
See the sunrise over the glorious ancient city of Chichen Itza, and enjoy a private tour of these magnificent archaeological ruins without the crowds on this day trip from Cancun - including roundtrip transport, an expert private guide and a delicious Mexican buffet lunch.
On your private tour, you will:
Considered one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza in the Yucatan Peninsula, was one of the major cities of the Mayan people in the 7th and 8th centuries. Today it is a complex of ancient ruins including temples, public and residential buildings, and the famous El Castillo Pyramid, which reflect the greatness, wealth, knowledge, and power of a great civilisation.
Its temples indicate a devotion to mysteries and other realms, celestial observations that would dictate religious ceremony and ritual, and the agricultural calendar. It was invaded and sacked many times, and finally conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century.
Chichen Itza is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a highly visited ancient city. This exclusive, private sunrise tour enables you to see this incredible place without the crowds and in the cool of the early morning before the heat and tourists descend. Begin your unforgettable journey from Cancun with a comfortable private transfer, taking you just 2.5 hours away to the legendary Chichén Itzá. Immerse yourself in the spine-tingling atmosphere of a long-dead ancient civilisation as you walk the paths, temples and residences of this once-powerful city.
Your exploration begins at the Great North Platform, the Osario Group, and the Central Group, home to the site’s most iconic structures. Marvel at El Castillo, the famed pyramid dedicated to the feathered serpent deity Kukulcán. Rising 98 feet into the sky, this pyramid is particularly spectacular during the equinox, when shadows form the appearance of a descending serpent. Nearby, explore the Great Ball Court, an impressive 95-foot-long arena with towering stone platforms where ancient Maya athletes once competed. Visit the awe-inspiring Temple of the Warriors, a grand stepped pyramid surrounded by the Group of a Thousand Columns, each intricately carved with depictions of warriors.
As you wander further, you’ll encounter the Osario Pyramid and the Temple of Xtoloc next to the Sacred Cenote, a water-filled sinkhole that was a popular pilgrimage site for the Maya and thought to connect different realms. The ancient observatory known as El Caracol, with its unique circular structure, reveals the Maya's astronomical expertise; it was designed to track celestial events and played a role in setting dates for rituals and agricultural cycles. Nearby, Las Monjas showcases a blend of Maya-Toltec and Puuc architectural styles, likely serving as a palace or government complex, while the Akab Dzib, dating back to 869 AD, offers insight into ancient Maya craftsmanship with its vaulted chambers.
You’ll also visit the Market Place and other fascinating sites that reveal Chichén Itzá’s former status as a powerful economic centre for the Yucatán Peninsula. Throughout your tour, your guide will share the rich history of the Maya civilization, illuminating their culture, politics, agricultural methods, and spiritual practices that shaped this once-thriving city over 1,500 years ago.
After a morning of exploring, enjoy a delicious buffet-style Mexican lunch. The adventure continues with a refreshing visit to a nearby cenote, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters that have been considered sacred for centuries. To end this incredible day, savour a taste of tequila before your scenic drive back to Cancun, a perfect way to toast an unforgettable experience.
The Yucatán Peninsula was once the heart of the Maya civilisation. It is dotted with remarkable ruins and archaeological sites that draw visitors from around the world. Two of the most important ruins can be found in the stunning coastal enclave of Tulum, once a pivotal port on the Caribbean Sea for the Maya, and the ancient city of Cobá, nestled deep within the Yucatan jungle. Our full-day excursion from Cancún allows you to explore these fascinating sites in the company of a private driver-guide, as well as enjoy an invigorating swim in a famous cenote and a delectable introduction to Mexican gastronomy where you’ll taste local chocolate, tequila and a variety of regional delicacies.
On this private full-day trip, you will:
On this comprehensive private tour, carefully crafted for travellers seeking a deep connection with Mexico’s history, culture, cuisine and natural wonders, your passionate local expert will take you on a captivating voyage into the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula.
Your day will begin bright and early at your hotel in Cancún, where you will get acquainted with your guide and hop aboard your private transportation. Soon you will embark upon a scenic drive along the stunning Caribbean coastline to the charming city of Tulum. You will visit the ruins at the Tulum Archaeological Zone and marvel at the iconic clifftop views and remarkably well-preserved temples. You will listen to your knowledgeable local guide bring the city’s fascinating past to life and discover how Tulum once served as a vital trading centre for the Maya. Before leaving Tulum, you will also enjoy an artisanal chocolate tasting, experiencing the same rich flavours that the Maya cherished as a sacred gift from the gods.
Then it’s time to journey deeper into the jungle to the ancient city of Cobá, one of the Yucatán’s largest and most intriguing archaeological sites. While you wander through Cobá’s ancient paths, you will uncover monumental ruins and hidden histories far from the typical tourist trails. You can also climb the towering Nohoch Mul Pyramid for panoramic views that stretch over the lush landscape, giving a privileged perspective from the region’s tallest pyramid. While in Cobá you will have the chance to do a Tequila tasting and sample a local blend of one of Mexico’s most celebrated exports.
By now you will surely have worked up an appetite, so your next stop will be at a nearby restaurant for a Mexican buffet lunch where you’ll be able to try a range of tasty Mexican dishes. Last but certainly not least, you will make your way to one of Yucatán’s most famous natural phenomena - a crystal clear natural pool called a cenote. As you cool off with a refreshing swim, you will soon see why these striking limestone formations were considered sacred by the Maya.
As your expedition across the Yucatán draws to a close, your driver-guide will bring you back to your hotel in Cancún having enjoyed a truly memorable day and immersing yourself in the best the Yucatán has to offer.
The Yucatán Peninsula offers a remarkable combination of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of Mexico’s most sought-after destinations. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, enjoying a tranquil swim in one of the region’s characteristic cenotes, or immersing yourself in Maya traditions, the Yucatán has something unique for every traveller. Make the most of your time on the Yucatán Peninsula with this comprehensive full-day itinerary departing direct from your hotel in Cancun, where you’ll discover Valladolid, Chichen Itza and a sacred Cenote in the company of a private driver-guide and sample world-famous Mexican cuisine with a buffet lunch and tequila tasting.
On this private full-day trip, you will:
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the cultural and natural highlights of the Yucatán Peninsula on this private full-day tour. This experience is ideal for those seeking a more intimate and in-depth experience offering the convenience of private transportation, allowing you to relax and focus entirely on enjoying the day. From ancient Mayan ruins to refreshing cenotes and the flavours of traditional Mexican gastronomy, every detail has been crafted to create an enriching and enjoyable experience.
Your Yucatán adventure will begin at your hotel in Cancun where your friendly driver-guide will pick you up. You’ll enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable local expert driver guide by your side to ensure you don’t miss a thing. As you travel across the peninsula, you will soak up the changing landscapes and learn fascinating insights about the region’s history and culture.
The first stop of the day will be the picturesque colonial city of Valladolid, where time seems to stand still. Known for its pastel-coloured buildings, cobblestoned streets, and rich cultural heritage, Valladolid was founded by Spanish settlers in 1543 and offers a window into Yucatán’s colonial past. On your guided walking tour through the town’s charming squares and streets, you’ll pass historic landmarks, local artisan shops, and bustling markets. This captivating ‘pueblo mágico’ will enchant you with its vibrant colours, unique history, and friendly locals.
From Valladolid, your driver will take you on a delightful detour to a nearby Cenote. These natural basins filled with clear, cool water are abundant in the Yucatán and were created by the erosion of limestone caverns uncovering the pockets of water that have formed below. Revered by the Maya as sacred, cenotes remain of great importance to local communities to this day and offer a perfect spot to unwind, swim, and connect with nature. The peaceful setting and crystal-clear waters will create a magical experience, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and reinvigorated.
After your cenote swim, you will be treated to a delicious buffet lunch where you’ll get to sample the diverse flavours of Mexican cuisine. From traditional dishes like cochinita pibil and sopa de lima to a variety of other regional specialities, this feast will provide you with an authentic taste of the local culinary traditions. You will also have the chance to complete your culinary experience with a Tequila tasting where you’ll learn about Mexico’s most famous beverage. Discovering the art and tradition behind Tequila production, including the different types and unique flavours, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for this iconic Mexican spirit and perhaps a favourite style to bring home with you.
Then it will be time to step into the ancient world of the Maya at Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your guide will lead you on an in-depth exploration of this awe-inspiring archaeological site, where you’ll uncover the mysteries and marvels of structures like the towering Pyramid of Kukulcan and the elaborate Temple of the Jaguars. You’ll gain insight into the Maya’s astronomical knowledge, architectural prowess, and the cultural significance of this once-thriving city. Following the guided tour, you’ll have free time to wander the ruins at your own pace, capturing photos and taking in the atmosphere of one of the world’s most celebrated historical sites.
Once your free time at the ruins comes to an end, your driver-guide will be on hand to return you to Cancun, having enjoyed an exhilarating expedition across the Yucatán Peninsula that will no doubt prove one of the highlights of your visit to Mexico.
When travelling to Mexico’s Riviera Maya, it is well worth taking the time to go beyond the beautiful beaches and explore the area’s incredibly rich history and culture. There are a whole host of amazing Mayan archaeological sites within easy reach of Cancún which allow visitors to get a closer look at one of the most advanced and influential civilizations in pre-Columbian America, from the world-famous Chichen Itza to the lesser known but just as fascinating Yaxunah. On our immersive day trip, you will have the chance to compare and contrast both sites, get unique insights about Mayan culture and engage with the local community dedicated to preserving their ancient traditions to this day.
On this private full-day trip , you will:
Our fascinating full-day tour blends history, gastronomy and a unique opportunity to engage with local Maya culture while exploring two extraordinary archaeological sites. With the comfort of private transportation, hotel pick-up, and a professional driver-guide, you’ll enjoy a seamless and engaging expedition into the monumental and cultural heart of the Yucatán peninsula.
Your tour begins at your hotel in Cancún, where you will meet your guide bright and early and set out on a scenic drive inland to Chichen Itza. One of the largest Pre-Columbian archaeological cities in the Yucatán, it was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1988 and more recently selected as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. On a guided tour of this remarkable site, you will marvel at the iconic Pyramid of Kukulkan, and find out about the fascinating “shadow of the serpent” phenomenon that appears during the equinoxes. You’ll step into the mystical past of the Maya as you visit structures like the Great Ball Court, once home to ceremonial games, and the Temple of the Warriors, famous for its intricate stone carvings that reveal the artistry and power of this ancient civilization.
Your journey will continue to the lesser-known but equally enchanting village of Yaxunah. Once there, you will be connected with a local Maya guide from the Yaxunah community who will introduce you to the site’s fascinating history and architecture. As you wander these unspoiled ruins that are still being excavated, you will learn about Mayan constructions such as the sacbeob, ancient stone causeways that connected Maya cities like Yaxunah and Cobá, and gain insight into the daily life and traditions of the Maya.
Following your deep dive into the past and present of Yaxunah, it will be time to enjoy a rich Mexican buffet lunch featuring a range of local Yucatecan dishes. You will also have the chance to partake in Tequila tasting to further luxuriate in the vibrant flavours of Mexico. Your day continues with a refreshing stop at a nearby cenote for a swim in the crystal-clear waters. These picturesque limestone pools are an emblematic feature of the Yucatán landscape and have been considered sacred by the Maya people for centuries.
After your serene cenote swim, your driver-guide will be on hand to take you back to Cancún no doubt enriched with unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to the Yucatán’s Maya heritage.
Join the fastest growing community of professional tour guides.
Use our easy to integrate toolset to include Tours & Attractions in your customer journey.