There is a lot to see and do at Tulum, but you might think Chichen Itza is far from Tulum and the most convenient way to get there.
An added bonus of visiting Tulum is the chance to experience the newly reopened ruins of Chichen Itza. The archaeological site is located in the Yucatan Peninsula and is one of the best archeological sites in the world.
Want to check out Chichen Itza but don’t know where to begin? We put together all of the information you need to plan the perfect day trip from Tulum, so you can explore this historic Mexican landmark the best way.
You can also be interested in how to go from Cancun and Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza.
Table of contents
The distance between Tulum and Chichen Itza
The distance from Tulum to Chichen Itza between the two cities is around 185 km, and you will need about 2 hours 15 minutes to get there non-stop.
It is possible to visit Chichen Itza from Tulum in one day. Many tours are running daily.
Tulum and Chichen Itza can be combined to make a very unique day trip. You can choose between joining an air-conditioned bus tour, book private transportation, or using commercial bus lines and taxis.
Before you make any reservation, we recommend you check out the reviews of other travelers to see if the option you are thinking of is the most suitable for the type of travel you are.
Here I give you some ideas on how to get from Tulum to Chichen Itza.
Take a bus
Estimated time by bus
- Consider the time you need to from your Hotel to the Bus station
- The first bus leaves at 7:20 am, and you will arrive 1 hour 10 minutes later
- Get a Taxi from the Bus station in Valladolid to Chichen Itza it takes approximately 50 minutes
If you consider the transfer times and waiting times, you will need approx 4 hours to get to Chichen Itza from Tulum.
Estimated cost by bus
- Bus Ticket $10 – $15 USD per person one way
- Taxi from Valladolid bus station to Chichen Itza $20 to $25 USD one way
You might think the most convenient way to get to Chichén-Itzá from Tulum is by commercial bus, but it certainly is not. At least from Tulum.
To get from Tulum to Chichen Itza, the best way will be to first arrive at Valladolid and then take a taxi to Chichen Itza the rest of the way.
The bus station of Tulum is located about 3 kilometers from the town center. You can either walk to the bus station or take a taxi or a private car from any part of Tulum is relatively easy.
Get a ticket to Valladolid from the bus station in Tulum for $10 -15 USD one way, depending on the category and day of travel.
From Valladolid, you can take a Taxi to Chichen Itza for $25 USD ona way.
Important: Arrange the way back at the bus station. Once you are in Tulum, you can arrange a taxi from Chichen Itza to Valladolid, and the price will be the same.
Bus station ADO
Tulum Centro, 77780 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Taxi from Tulum to Chichen Itza
Estimated time by taxi
Depending on the Hotel or location you will like to departure a Taxi will be a little bit faster than a commercial bus line.
The estimated time will be 3 hours from Tulum downtown.
Estimated cost by taxi
Take into consideration the arrangement of the exact cost of the taxi once you negotiate the price.
A taxi could charge between $120 – $150 USD round trip. But might not include the toll roads.
This can be a good substitute for a regular private transportation company. Still, we can tell you the price will not be that different. Since Taxis are not used to price for long distances. We recommend you ask for at least 3 Taxis and negotiate the price.
A Taxi can be found in the town of Tulum, and you can find several at the Taxi stands in town. Be sure to make arrangements with the Taxi driver before you leave Tulum. They will charge an additional fee for bringing a passenger into Chichen Itza, Like toll roads, for example.
Use private transportation from Tulum to Chichen Itza.
Estimated Time 2 hours 15 minutes from Tulum Downtown
The estimated cost for a vehicle of 6-8 passengers is $ 250 USD, including Toll roads.
If you stay in Tulum, make sure that you reserve your private transportation from Tulum to Chichen Itza in advance. Many companies can provide a private transportation service to Chichen Itza Archeological site. They offer two levels of assistance.
The first level of service is to be charged just for transportation only. You might need to consider the parking lot, the number of hours you will like to use the transport and the toll roads.
Another level of service will be to ask for a price all included, which we believe is the most convenient way since the difference will be not too much. You avoid the hassle of managing all the payments.
Rental Car from Tulum to Chichen Itza
Estimated Time 2 hours 15 minutes from Tulum Downtown
Estimated Cost
- Small car $35 USD per day consider at least 2 days of rental
- Fuel $25 USD approx
- Toll roads $ 16 USD approx
- Parking in Chichen $4 USD
One of the most popular ways to get from Tulum to Chichen Itza is with a Rental Car. Drive from Tulum in a rental car to get to Chichen Itza. This way, you will be flexible enough to visit the archeology site at your own phase.
If you visit Chichen Itza with family, this could be convenient since it is pretty safe. You might also consider spending the night in one of the great hotels the area offers.
Check out the recommendations we have for how to plan a visit to Chichen Itza.
Take a tour from Tulum to Chichen Itza
Estimated time by an organized tour
Usually, tours from Tulum have a specific meeting point Downtown. From there, you will need 2 hours and 30 minutes to arrive at Chichen Itza.
Estimated cost by an organized tour
There are different types of tours, but on average, it will be $69 USD, but this will include visiting other interesting points or cenotes, Lunch, a guided visit, and some other components.
This is the most convenient way to visit Chichen Itza from Tulum.
Some companies offer a combination tour of Chichen Itza and Tulum. You can take a tour of Chichen Itza at the cost of $50 – $100 USD per person.
This is probably the easiest way to book a tour from Tulum to Chichen Itza since it includes more attractions and, in many cases, Lunch.
You can book the #1 Tour to Chichen Itza from Tulum with us 🙂
Attractions of Tulum and Chichen Itza
Tulum, situated along the stunning Caribbean coast of Mexico, boasts a plethora of captivating tourist attractions. Its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the well-preserved Tulum Archaeological Site are just a few highlights. The ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the sea provide a unique historical backdrop, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich past.
However, the allure of Tulum extends beyond its natural beauty. The town itself is vibrant, with a bohemian atmosphere, adorned with trendy beach clubs, artisanal shops, and exquisite dining options. Travelers seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration find Tulum to be a truly enchanting destination.
While Tulum charms with its coastal elegance, Chichen Itza stands as a testament to Mexico’s ancient history and cultural heritage. Renowned as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza was a major Mayan archaeological site. The site’s iconic pyramid, El Castillo, showcases advanced astronomical and architectural knowledge of the ancient Mayans. Exploring Chichen Itza offers a profound journey into Mexico’s pre-Columbian past, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Travel using Organized Tours
For those seeking a seamless and enriching journey from Tulum to Chichen Itza, organized tours present an excellent option. Numerous tour operators offer comprehensive packages, providing travelers with a hassle-free experience.
These tours typically include transportation from Tulum to Chichen Itza, eliminating the need for visitors to navigate complex routes. Additionally, guided tours offer valuable insights into the historical and cultural significance of Chichen Itza, enhancing the overall experience.
Costs vary based on the type of tour and additional features. While some may opt for budget-friendly options, others might choose more premium packages with added perks. The convenience of having transportation, guided expertise, and often additional stops at nearby attractions makes organized tours a practical and enjoyable choice for those looking to maximize their time and experience when journeying from Tulum to Chichen Itza.
Recommendations and Practical Tips
When contemplating the journey from Tulum to Chichen Itza, consider these tips to ensure a smooth and satisfying travel experience.
1. Tailor Your Choice to Your Travel Style and Budget:
- If you’re an adventurous solo traveler, consider budget-friendly options like buses or taxis.
- For a more relaxed and informative experience, organized tours might be worth the investment.
- Private transportation suits those valuing comfort and flexibility, especially for families or groups.
2. Prioritize Reviews and Recommendations:
- Before committing to any transportation option or tour, delve into traveler reviews.
- Platforms like TripAdvisor or travel blogs offer valuable insights into the experiences of others.
- Pay attention to aspects such as reliability, comfort, and the overall satisfaction of previous travelers.
3. Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Journey:
- Whether opting for public transportation or private tours, plan your itinerary in advance.
- Check the schedules, availability, and potential challenges of each option.
- Pre-booking, where possible, can secure your spot and prevent last-minute inconveniences.
4. Stay Flexible with Your Itinerary:
- While planning is essential, remain open to spontaneity.
- Some impromptu stops or detours might lead to hidden gems along the route.
- Flexibility allows for a more authentic and personalized travel experience.
By tailoring your choices, considering reviews, planning meticulously, and staying flexible, your journey from Tulum to Chichen Itza can become a memorable adventure tailored to your preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
Chichen Itza is a must-see for travelers visiting Mexico. It’s about 3 hours from Tulum by car or tour bus. The ruins are located in what is now the Mexican state of Yucatan.
Chichen Itza was a major Mayan archaeological site in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and has some of the best archeological sites in the world. Is worth the visit.
The most convenient to get from Tulum to Chichen Itza will be according to the type of traveler you are and your budget.
You can always contact us at your convenience to ask questions, and we will be happy to help.
