Exploring the Route from Tulum to Chichen Itza

Tulum, a charming seaside town, showcases captivating Mayan ruins; however, for a grander experience, embarking on a day trip from Tulum to Chichen Itza proves to be an excellent choice.

Discovering Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza stands as a renowned tourist destination in Mexico, once thriving as a paramount Mayan city. Its origins trace back to 600 AD, with the striking colossal pyramid at its core leaving visitors in awe.

Transport Options

When traveling from Tulum to Chichen Itza, you have various transportation alternatives, including booking a tour, self-driving with a rental car, or opting for the ADO public bus. This guide delineates the nuances of each option, enumerating their advantages and drawbacks.

Seamless Exploration

Embarking on a journey to this world wonder from any touristic hub in the Yucatan peninsula is relatively straightforward. Moreover, it proves to be cost-efficient, making it a must-add to your itinerary when in Mexico!

Where To Stay In Tulum

For accommodations in Tulum, some recommended options are Tago Tulum, Villas Akalan, Los Amigos, and Wakax Hacienda. Each offers unique experiences that cater to different preferences and budgets.

Location of Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is situated in the heart of the Mexican state of Yucatan.

The distance between Tulum and Chichen Itza is approximately 150 kilometers (90 miles), making it reachable in just over a 2-hour drive.

How To Travel From Tulum to Chichen Itza

• Join A Group Tour

Opting for a group tour is a budget-friendly and convenient way to travel from Tulum to Chichen Itza. You can easily book a tour online or through your Tulum hotel upon arrival in Mexico.

Chichen Itza tours are in high demand, with numerous companies offering them daily. The tour typically includes hotel pickup in the morning, transportation by van or bus to Chichen Itza, and a guided exploration of the ruins.

We personally took advantage of one of these tours and had a fantastic experience. Many of these group tours from Tulum to Chichen Itza also incorporate other prominent attractions in the Yucatan peninsula, such as the Coba ruins, Valladolid, and visits to picturesque cenotes (natural sinkholes) in the region. These tours often provide a buffet lunch and arrange for hotel drop-off/pickup as well.

The main drawback of a group tour is the fixed schedule, allowing only about an hour or less at each stop along the route. While we wished for more time, many travelers find this duration sufficient, especially for capturing photos. It’s worth noting that you’ll be sharing the experience with fellow travelers, but considering the crowds at Chichen Itza, it can be a good opportunity to interact with others. Alternatively, there are small group tours available for a more personalized touch.

Book Your Chichen Itza Tulum Group Tour Now

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Chichen Itza Tulum Group Tour. Explore the wonders of these ancient Mayan ruins while enjoying a refreshing dip in a cenote and savoring a delicious lunch.

• Book A Private Tour

If you prefer a more intimate experience when visiting Chichen Itza and avoid large tour groups, consider booking a private tour or a small group tour from Tulum to Chichen Itza available daily.

Although private tours are pricier than group tours, they offer the advantage of personalized service with a private driver and a knowledgeable guide who can provide detailed insights into the historical sites along the way.

Many of these private tours also include amenities such as a buffet lunch and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from various locations in the Riviera Maya like Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, Cancun, and more.

Book Now: Chichen Itza Tulum Private Tour

• Rent A Car & Drive Yourself

If you want to travel from Tulum to Chichen Itza, renting a car and driving yourself is a popular option that offers flexibility and affordability, especially for group travel.

The drive typically takes just over 2 hours covering a distance of around 150 kilometers (90 miles) on well-maintained roads along the 180 highway without any tolls.

Using a map for navigation, you’ll arrive at the parking area near Chichen Itza before reaching the ruins, allowing stops at places like Valladolid and nearby cenotes.

Ensure you rent from a reputable company, document the vehicle’s condition thoroughly to prevent any potential rental scams, and remember to have entrance tickets for Chichen Itza even if you drive yourself.

It’s advisable to purchase Chichen Itza entrance tickets online in advance to skip the queue and maximize your time exploring the archaeological site.

Welcome to Chichen Itza: A Wonder of the Ancient World

Chichen Itza is truly a marvel of the ancient world, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Maya civilization. This archaeological site in Mexico is renowned for its impressive pyramid, known as El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulcan, which showcases advanced architectural and astronomical knowledge.

Exploring Chichen Itza allows travelers to immerse themselves in the mystical past of the Maya people, witnessing intricate stone carvings, ball courts, and other fascinating structures. The site’s significance as a center for religious ceremonies and astronomical observations adds to its allure and makes it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Visitors can also marvel at the sacred Cenote Sagrado, a natural sinkhole connected to ancient rituals and sacrifices, providing insight into the spiritual beliefs of the Maya. Additionally, the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court, and the Observatory further highlight the architectural and cultural achievements of this ancient civilization.

Booking a rental car in Tulum offers the flexibility to explore Chichen Itza and other nearby archaeological sites at your own pace, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience. Witness the wonders of the past come to life at Chichen Itza, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable journey through time.

• Take The ADO Public Bus

Opting for the ADO bus is a cost-effective way to travel from Tulum to Chichen Itza. The bus leaves Tulum around 9:37 AM daily and returns at 4:00 PM.

This method is ideal for solo travelers on a budget who are comfortable arranging their own transportation. You can reach the Tulum bus station quickly by taxi or Uber.

The journey from Tulum to Chichen Itza lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes and costs about 300 pesos (around $15 USD) for a one-way ticket. Tickets can be purchased online through the ADO Bus website or at the Mexican bus station.

ADO buses offer cleanliness, air conditioning, and restroom facilities. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant of your belongings as theft occurrences are not uncommon on the buses and at the terminal. Arriving early at the bus station is recommended, especially on busy days when the check-in process can be chaotic.

If you choose to visit Chichen Itza by bus, you will have approximately 3 to 3.5 hours to explore the archaeological site, which is typically sufficient for most visitors.

When visiting Chichen Itza independently, remember to secure entrance tickets beforehand, even without a tour. It is advisable to purchase your Chichen Itza entrance tickets online in advance to skip the line and maximize your time exploring the ruins.

Explore Chichen Itza with ADO Bus Services

Visiting the renowned Chichen Itza ruins in Mexico was a memorable experience during our trip. To make the journey convenient and hassle-free, consider booking a ride with ADO Bus.

Tulum To Chichen Itza Frequently Asked Questions

Valladolid, a 16th-century city, is an excellent stopover on the journey to Chichen Itza.

Additional Tulum Excursions

Tulum Hotels

Explore a range of exquisite accommodations in Tulum that offer a blend of luxury and comfort:

Tago Tulum

Experience the serene beauty of Tago Tulum’s beachfront location and top-notch facilities.

Villas Akalan

Immerse yourself in the charm of Villas Akalan’s unique architecture and personalized service.

Los Amigos

Indulge in the laid-back ambiance and hospitality of Los Amigos for a relaxing getaway.

Wakax Hacienda

Discover the historical allure and modern comforts of Wakax Hacienda for an unforgettable stay.