Day Trips & Excursions: Chichen Itza

Nearby Destinations from Chichen Itza/Valladolid

Explore Ek Balam, approximately 30 minutes from Valladolid, known for its well-preserved stucco sculptures and climbable pyramid. A less crowded Mayan site for a more intimate visit.

Discover Izamal, "The Yellow City," an hour from Valladolid, featuring a Franciscan monastery built atop a Mayan pyramid. A picturesque colonial town offering a different historical view.

Transportation Options

Ek Balam: Collectivo from Valladolid, taxi, or rental car.
Izamal: ADO buses from Valladolid or Mérida, taxi, rental car.
Mérida: Frequent ADO buses from Valladolid and Cancun, rental cars.
Uxmal/Ruta Puuc: Rental car for flexibility. Organized tours from Mérida.

Further Explorations

Venture further to uncover more of the Yucatan's cultural and natural wonders.

Mérida, the Capital

About 1.5 hours west of Chichen Itza, Mérida offers rich colonial history, architecture, museums, and lively cultural events.

What to See

Historic center and impressive architecture.
Numerous museums and galleries.
cultural performances, especially on weekends.

Uxmal & Ruta Puuc

Located southwest of Chichen Itza, Uxmal is an impressive Mayan ruin with unique Puuc architectural style, distinct stone mosaics and patterns.

Other Sites on Ruta Puuc

Kabah, Sayil, and Labna.
Generally less crowded than Chichen Itza.
Dive into varied Mayan architectural styles.

Organized Tour vs. Independent Travel

Organized Tour

Convenient with included transportation and guides.
Good for first-time visitors who prefer ease.
Less flexibility in timing.
Potentially higher cost.

Independent Travel

Maximum flexibility for exploration.
Potential for cost savings.
More planning and self-navigation needed.
A rental car can be useful.

Suggested Day Trip Times

Ek Balam:Half-day (2-3 hours at site)
Izamal:Half to full-day
Mérida:Full-day
Uxmal/Ruta Puuc:Full-day (start early)

Rio Lagartos/Las Coloradas:Full-day
Combine Ek Balam:With Cenote X'canche
Combine Chichen Itza:With Cenote Ik Kil
Book tours:GetYourGuide Day Trips

Travel Tip:

When planning day trips, group geographically close sites together to minimize travel time.

Natural Escapes

Beyond the ancient ruins, the Yucatan offers unique natural landscapes, mainly its coastal areas and specific ecological reserves.

Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve

A wetland area north of Valladolid, known for its large flamingo population (November to May), crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Boat tours explore mangroves.

Sian Ka'a Biosphere Reserve

An UNESCO World Heritage site south of Tulum, with diverse ecosystems including mangroves, wetlands, and coral reefs. Ideal for ecotours and birdwatching. Best for an overnight stay.

Las Coloradas

Near Rio Lagartos, discover the striking pink lakes. The color comes from microorganisms and high salt content. A unique natural spectacle.

Geological Wonders

The Yucatan is famous for its cenotes, natural sinkholes offering unique swimming experiences.

Cenotes: Jungle Gems

Lush jungle provides a beautiful natural backdrop.
Crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
Opportunities for exploration in unique geological formations.

Regional Landscapes

Understand the natural lay of the land in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Yucatan's Terrain

Beaches: Nearest are on the Caribbean (Tulum, Playa del Carmen) or Gulf Coast.
Mountains: The peninsula is generally flat, no significant mountains.
Rural Areas: Flat, forested interior offering glimpses into Mayan village life.

Seasonal Natural Phenomena

Flamingo Migration (Rio Lagartos):November to May (dry season)

Peak Flamingo Numbers:During nesting season

Equinox at Chichen Itza:March 20-21 & Sept 22-23 (serpent shadow)

Chichen Itza Viewing:A historical light effect

Best Time for Wildlife:Dry season for many species

Cenote Refreshment:Great during hot months

Preserving Nature:

When swimming in cenotes, rinse off all sunscreen and insect repellent.
These chemicals can harm the delicate underground water system.
Many cenotes provide showers for this purpose.
Use reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen if swimming in coastal areas.
Your small action protects Yucatan's freshwater sources.

Cultural Excursions

Deepen your exploration of Mayan culture and colonial history with these targeted excursions.

Historical Mayan Sites

Discover a broader range of Mayan civilization beyond Chichen Itza's borders.

Explore Varied Mayan Architecture

Ek Balam: Unique stucco sculptures.
Uxmal & Ruta Puuc: Distinct Puuc architectural style.
Mayapan: Insight into a later Mayan capital.

Rural Villages & Agriculture

Gain insights into contemporary Mayan life by exploring smaller, traditional villages.

Engage with Local Culture

Approach with respect for local privacy and customs.
Observe traditional agriculture or craft production.
Seek out community-based tourism projects for direct support.

Pilgrimage Sites

Explore locations with deep spiritual and historical significance.

Convent of San Antonio de Padua in Izamal

Built atop a Mayan pyramid.
Significant pilgrimage site for Catholics.
Historical layers and spiritual meaning for a compelling visit.

Rio Lagartos & Las Coloradas

Discover wildlife and unique natural phenomena north of Valladolid.

Coastal Exploration

Rio Lagartos: Fishing village and biosphere reserve.
Flamingos (seasonal), crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.
Las Coloradas: Iconic pink lakes, a photographer's delight.

These sites collectively broaden one's perspective on Mayan civilization.

Uxmal

A major site featuring the distinctive Puuc architectural style, intricate stone mosaics, and geometric patterns.

Ek Balam

An important site with remarkably well-preserved stucco sculptures on its main pyramid, the Acropolis.

Mayapan

Offers insight into a later Mayan capital, showing a different period of Mayan history.

Planning Ahead:

Consider exploring tours on GetYourGuide for easy booking and diverse options.

Day Trips & Excursions