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18 BEST Chichen Itza Private Tours (from anywhere)

The magnificent archaeological site of Chichen Itza, recognized as a UNESCO site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is an unmissable attraction in Mexico. And (hopefully) you’re about to visit it!

I highly recommend visiting the Mayan ruins on a tour, because the insights you’ll gain on the constructions and its ancient civilization are, in my opinion, half of the experience. And I’m saying it as someone who doesn’t usually love guided tours of historical sites, but loved her guided tour to Chichen Itza,

I’ve previously written a few articles about tours to Chichen Itza from Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum. However, I’ve had a few readers ask me for specific recommendations for private tours, because it’s a fact that Chichen Itza is more and more crowded, so a group tour can be the opposite of a relaxing experience.

Woman with a white and blue dress and a straw hat standing in front of a construction at Chichen Itza.

By opting for a private tour, you can discover the ruins and their secrets in a trip completely customized for you, that includes hassle-free transfers and, most of the time, visits to other nearby attractions. Plus, by joining a private tour, you’ll benefit from your guide’s undivided attention.

I’ve selected the best Chichen Itza private tours that I believe offer great value for money to make your search for an epic trip much easier. So take a look, and choose the best excursion for you!

Why can you trust my suggestions? I have a decade of experience curating tour guides and travel itineraries (plus I lived for over 6 months in Mexico over the years), and I know exactly what to look for to make sure an excursion is worthwhile. You can expect only high-quality, extraordinary tours to make the most of your time in Mexico, and explore Chichen Itza the way it’s meant to.

I usually use Viator and Get Your Guide to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy. If your plans change, you’ll be able to cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. 

In a rush? These are the ultimate tours:

THE BEST TOUR VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour
CHICHEN ITZA, COBA & TULUM COMBOFull-Day Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum
TOUR FROM CANCUNExcursion to Chichen Itza, Valladolid, and Cenote
TOUR FROM RIVIERA MAYA & PLAYA Skip the Line Chichen Itza Private Tour
TOUR FROM TULUMChichen Itza Private Tour VIP
TOUR FROM VALLADOLID Chichen Itza, Lunch and Cenote
TOUR FROM MERIDAChichen Itza Elite Private Tour from Merida
TOUR FROM COZUMELPrivate Chichen Itza from Cozumel

OUR PICK: The BEST Chichen Itza Private Tour 

Discover the wonders of the Mayan civilization with a VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour. Arrive bright and early at the site to avoid the crowds and heat. You might even get lucky and get the whole place to yourself like I did!

You’ll tour the spectacular ruins with an expert which will unveil curious facts about the structures, and pose in front of the main pyramid for photos.

Afterward, dive into the crystal-clear waters of Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman. I love this cenote! It’s as enchanting as other famous ones, minus the crowds.

Your last stop is Valladolid, a picturesque colonial town that’s worth wandering around. Take a leisure stroll through its streets, and indulge in a Mexican lunch at a local restaurant (included).

With pick-up options from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Riviera Maya, this private guided tour is a great fit for most travelers.

Why is this the best tour? This exclusive trip to Chichen Itza takes care of everything for you. From transfers to tickets, lunch, and a carefully planned itinerary, you’ll be presented with the best service.

While other tours require you to pay entrance fees or explore the ruins on your own, this VIP experience caters to your every need. Plus, it showcases the region’s most iconic locations and is guided by an expert. Also, it’s a great fit for most travelers as pickup is included from almost anywhere.

Read what the reviews say:

We spent an excellent day with our guide! He was very knowledgeable of the sights and the history/archaeology aspect of Chcihen Itza. We also had a great lunch in Valladolid and say the historic downtown center. The cenote was also very fun to visit and was a nice refresher after some time walking in the heat. I would definitely recommend this tour to my family and friends.”

Robert_D – Read more reviews

This tour includes: Private transportation, entrance fees, a guide, lunch, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza Private Tours from Cancun

▶️ Beat the crowds with a Chichen Itza Sunrise and Cenote Ik Kil from Cancun. See the colors of dawn light up the ancient structures, and spend 2 hours delving into their secrets. After your tour around the spectacular Mayan city, you’ll pay a visit to Ik Kil cenote. 

Revel in the tranquility of the natural sinkhole as you swim in its clear waters. A tasty breakfast will be served, and you’ll have the chance of taking stunning photos before returning.

Since the tour is catered to your group, you call the shots. Feel like adding a trip to Coba or Ek Balam to the itinerary? Have it your way!

This tour includes: Private transfers, a guide, entrance fees, breakfast, and water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE


▶️ The Private Chichen Itza – No additional stops at other hotels tour is a full-day trip from Cancun. It enables you to discover the ancient realm of the Mayan Civilization with a professional guide.

You’ll arrive at the ruins first thing in the morning, beating the masses and the heat. As you embark on an archaeological exploration, you’ll get to appreciate the pyramids in a new light.

Afterward, go for a refreshing dip in Saamal cenote, and savor a Yucatan-style lunch in Valladolid. Travel in comfort in a private air-conditioned vehicle with up to 14 of your friends. 

This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, Chichen Itza entrance fees, a guide, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE


▶️ Explore the wonders of Mexico’s Mayan heritage on a Full-Day Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Private Tour with Lunch. Visit three phenomenal ancient cities while learning about them from your knowledgeable guide.

Start your trip in Chichen Itza, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site and the country’s most popular ruins. After a comprehensive tour around its structures, you’ll cruise through jungle-clad Coba.

This is one of the most underrated Mayan ruins, and you’ll get to ascend its tallest pyramid for views of the lush surroundings. Take a dip in Cenote Ik-Kil and savor a buffet lunch to refuel. Finally, take in the breathtaking scenery from the Tulum Ruins, a cliff-perched walled city.

This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, all entrance fees, snacks, soft drinks, lunch, and rent of pedicabs in Coba. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Tours of Chichen Itza From Playa del Carmen & Riviera Maya Resorts

▶️ Delve into Mayan history with this Skip the Line Chichen Itza Private Tour, Sacred Cenote & Lunch. You’ll bypass the queues to explore the ancient ruins, and learn plenty of curiosities and history tidbits from your guide.

Continue to Saamal Cenote, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip. And since you’re in the area, you might as well explore Valladolid, right? This gorgeous city still boasts its colonial charm, and you’ll get to appreciate it in full as you wander around.

Lastly, savor a scrumptious Yucatan lunch in a local restaurant before returning to your hotel in the Riviera Maya. 

This tour includes: Hotel transfers, a private guide, entrance fees, bottled water, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE


▶️ Start your day early and beat the crowds with a VIP Chichen Itza & Coba Private Tour. Explore the ancient ruins, and take in the magic that surrounds them with a guide.

You’ll also discover the purpose of the various structures, and the gory details behind the ball court! 

Then, dive into the stunning Hacienda Chukum Cenote for a refreshing swim. In Valladolid, you’ll have time to wander its enchanting streets and enjoy an a la carte lunch.

The last stop on your trip is Coba Archaeological Site, nestled in the lush jungle. You’ll hop on a bicycle to explore this spread-out city, and conquer its tallest pyramid, Nohoch Mul. 

This tour includes: Transfers, a guide, lunch, entrance fees, snorkel gear, and the use of a bicycle at Coba. ➥ BOOK IT HERE


▶️ Beat the crowds with this VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour – Luxury Car. Delve into Mayan history with an expert guide, discovering the purpose of each building and taking in their imposing presence.

Afterward your visit, cool off with a refreshing swim in a cenote, sacred to the Mayan civilization. Cap off the tour with free time in Valladolid, and a delectable lunch at a local restaurant. 

This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, toll road fees, a private guide, entrance fees, water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Tours to Chichen Itza From Tulum

▶️ Get your group ready for a memorable trip with this Chichen Itza Private Tour VIP. You’ll be assigned a driver to come pick you up and take you to one of the wonders of the modern world. 

Explore the archaeological site without rushing, and take in the fascinating facts your guide will share with you. The striking structures do have a story to tell!

After the visit, cool off at Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman, and have lunch in Valladolid. Stroll through the charming streets of this picturesque colonial town before returning to Tulum. 

This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, all visits, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE


▶️ Dodge the crowds with an early start on this VIP Chichen Itza & Coba Private Tour for up to 15 travelers. Explore Chichen Itza on a very informative tour around its structures, which range from impressive pyramids to a ball court and an observatory.

Then, go for a swim in the mesmerizing Chukum cenote before heading to the second archaeological site: Coba Ruins.

Nestled in the heart of the jungle, it’s said that most structures of the ancient city are yet to be discovered. Climb its tallest pyramid, and share lunch with your guide and friends to refuel. 

This tour includes: Private transportation, a guide, entrance fees, use of bikes in Coba, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE


▶️ Join this Private World Wonder Discovery Tour in Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid. You’ll be able to unearth the mysteries of the most famous Mayan city, with your favorite people.

Explore the grandeur of the ancient settlement as you learn interesting facts about its inhabitants and their culture. After the visit, take a dip in the serene Cenote Xux H.

Cap off the tour with a stroll in Valladolid’s colorful colonial streets. You’ll also savor the local cuisine with a scrumptious lunch. It’s a day packed with history, adventure, and delicious flavors!

This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza Private Tours From Valladolid

▶️ Discover the Mayan civilization with this Private transportation (Chichen Itza + 3 Cenotes) from Valladolid

Your driver will pick you up at your accommodation, and take you to the glorious site of Chichen Itza. There you’ll be able to explore the ruins on your own, or with a guide hired at the location (own expense). 

Take your time to wander around the site, and then make a trip to the mystical Ik Kil Cenote for a swim. Continue your cenote-hopping with a visit to Cenotes Xcajum and Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman.

Enjoy Yucatan cuisine, explore the natural wonders of the region, and relax by knowing you’ll be returned to your hotel’s front door at the end of the tour. 

This tour includes: Private roundtrip transportation with a certified driver. ➥ BOOK IT HERE


▶️ Embark on a full-day excursion by joining this Chichen Itza, lunch and Cenote from Valladolid (Private Tour). Start with a 90-minute guided tour around the archaeological site.

Start with a 90-minute guided tour around the archaeological site. You’ll then have free time to explore the site on your own and snap pictures!

Then, dive into the mystical Ik Kil Cenote – or choose one of your preference – for a refreshing plunge before it’s time to sit down for lunch in Tekom.

You’ll get to savor no less than the winning dish of the Best Traditional Food contest, Cochinita Pibil. Plus, meet stingless Melipona Bees on a unique and very enlightening visit. It’s a history and nature-packed adventure!

This tour includes: Private transportation, a guide, entrance fees, all visits, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE


▶️ Check out this Chichen Itza, Cenote, lunch and Ek Balam from Valladolid (Private Tour) to set foot in one of the most magical ancient sites in the region. You’ll tour this modern wonder on your own, discovering the iconic Kukulcan Temple and the ball court.

Take a dip in Cenote Ik Kil for an hour, admission included, or choose one of the quieter cenotes in the area. Ask your driver for recommendations! 

You’ll then visit the municipality of Tekom to taste their award-winning Cochinita Pibil dish.

Enjoy a unique encounter with stingless Melipona Bees, and complete your journey with a trip to Ek Balam. This smaller archaeological site allows you to climb the main temple for stunning jungle views. 

This tour includes: Private transportation, entrance to the cenote, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza Private Tours From Merida

▶️ This Chichen Itza Elite Private Tour from Merida grants your group a unique trip to the archaeological site of Chichen Itza. You’ll explore the ruins with the expert guidance of a bilingual escort, the best way to do it!

Discover fascinating facts about the Mayan city and its inhabitants, and then wander around the pyramids at your leisure. Take a refreshing plunge in Cenote Ik Kil, and enjoy a comfortable transfer with A/C and cold drinks to a local restaurant for lunch. 

You’ll spend three hours delving into Chichen Itza, followed by two hours of Cenote Ik Kil bliss – the perfect morning if you ask me! 

This tour includes: Private transportation, a guide, entrance fees, a guided tour of Chichen Itza, cold drinks, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE


▶️ A fantastic alternative is joining a Mayan trip with a twist with this Wonders of the Mayab: Chichen Itza, Yokdzonot Cenote & Cooking Class.

Start by visiting Chichen Itza, a New Wonder of the World, and gawking at its incredible pyramid. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the site on your own.  

Then, enjoy a refreshing dip at Yokdzonot cenote, a beautiful natural sinkhole in the region. Finally, dive into Yucatecan culture with a hands-on cooking class. You’ll learn to prepare local delicacies such as panuchos and salbutes, and enjoy them for lunch!

This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, life vests at the cenote, a cooking class, and lunch at a restaurant. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza Private Tour From Cozumel

With this Private Chichen Itza Full-Day Tour from Cozumel you’ll discover how the now extinct civilization lived and thrived.

Your driver will whisk you away from the ferry port at Playa del Carmen, and take you to the site’s entrance. You’ll explore the ruins with a professional guide, learning all the secrets behind each structure.

After the tour, check out a beautiful cenote where you can go for a swim. Savor a tasty lunch to refuel before returning to the port.  

This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers from the ferry port, entrance fees, a guide, a cenote visit, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

A Private Tour of Chichen Itza (No Transportation)

Would you rather make your way to Chichen Itza on your own? No problem! Get this Private Guide Service in the Archaeological Zone of Chichen Itza. It enables you to make the most of your visit, without having to pay for unnecessary transfers. 

You’ll meet a professional guide at the site, and enjoy a 2-hour private tour discovering the striking structures that dot the area. Unveil the myths and historical facts of this ancient Mayan city as you take in their spectacular details.

Learn some Mayan language, and all about the architecture, culture, art, and history of Chichen Itza. After the tour, you can stay on the site for as long as you wish!

This tour includes: A guided tour of Chichen Itza. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

  • Stefania Guglielmi

    Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.