How To Get From Merida To Chichen Itza + The Best Tour!

Q: Is it safe to Drive from Merida to Chichen Itza?

Yes , it is safe to drive from Merida to Chichen Itza. The route is well-traveled and the roads are generally in good condition. However, it is always important to exercise caution while driving, obey traffic rules, and be aware of other vehicles on the road.

Q: Can I use Uber in Merida?

Yes , you can use Uber in Merida. Uber is available in Merida, providing convenient and reliable transportation services. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler visiting the city, Uber offers a convenient option for getting around and exploring all that Merida has to offer.

A woman standing in front of a pyramid in chichen itza, mexico.

I took a tour that picked me up from Merida and took me on an unforgettable journey to Chichen Itza, and Izamal, and even included a delicious lunch. But tours aren’t the only way you can get from Merida to Chichen Itza.

If you’re planning a trip from Merida to Chichen Itza and wondering about the best way to get there look no further! I’ll guide you through the options of using public transportation, private transfers, or choosing the best tour, ensuring you make the most of your time and money.

As a traveler, I understand the desire to explore the finest destinations while minimizing both hassle and expenses. Additionally, it is crucial to adequately prepare for the journey ahead and strategically plan the optimal timing for your adventures. I always try to be well-prepared for trips, but even the most careful of us can sometimes face unexpected challenges.

Like when we started the tour, I realized I had forgotten to pack water and snacks for the long day ahead. But, our super awesome driver luckily pulled over at a convenience store and made sure we had everything we needed for the adventure. So if you’re interested in learning how to reach Chichen Itza, join me as I share the details.

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A woman is sitting in front of a colorful sign that says merida.

Transportation Options

Taking The Bus

To get from Merida to Chichen Itza via the ADO bus, follow these steps:

Head to the ADO bus terminal in Merida. Google Maps location here.
Purchase a ticket for the direct ADO bus to Chichen Itza, which takes approximately 2 hours. The price should be around $175 MXN or $10 USD one-way
Note that the buses to Chichen Itza have limited schedules, usually running only two to three times a day.
Arrive at the ADO bus terminal at least 30 minutes before departure to secure your ticket and avoid any inconvenience.
Tickets can also be purchased online in advance for added convenience.
Here is where the bus drops you off at in Chichen Itza and where you will go to get back to Merida.
A travel tip to keep in mind is that public buses in Mexico can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
Be mindful of your surroundings and keep your belongings close while traveling on the public bus.

Traveling from Merida to Chichen Itza via the ADO bus offers an affordable and convenient option to explore this ancient wonder.

Renting A Car

To easily visit Chichen Itza with a car, you can rent one on Rentalcars.com that suits your needs and budget. Keep in mind that most rental cars in Mexico require additional insurance coverage, so don’t forget to check with your chosen rental company.

When driving from Merida to Chichen Itza, follow these directions:

Head East on Highway 180 towards Valladolid.
Right before reaching the town Kantunil turn left to head on Highway 180D (this will shave 15 minutes of drive time not having to drive through the city)
Continue on Highway 180D until you reach the intersection of Highway 75, then turn right at Acceso a Zona Hotelera Chichen Itza.
Drive through the town of Piste following the signs to Chichen Itza
Follow the signs and turn right to enter the archaeological site.

In terms of parking, there is a parking area available at Chichen Itza and the fee for parking is around $60 pesos (3.50 USD). Make sure to have some cash with you to pay for parking upon arrival. The parking area is conveniently located near the entrance of the archaeological site.

Remember, in Mexico, they drive on the right side of the road, and the average speed limit is 70–90 km/h (43–56 mph) on rural two-lane roads.

Private Transfers

If you’re looking for an exclusive and personalized travel experience? Then, you’ll love this recommended Private Tour to Chichen Itza from Merida.

This isn’t your regular group tour. It’s a unique private journey that ensures your comfort and convenience by picking you up directly from your location in Merida. The tour offers not only transportation but also an expert guide who will walk you through the history and significance of Chichen Itza.

The day begins with a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle. As you make your way to the site, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about Mayan culture and history. Once you arrive at Chichen Itza, you’ll be able to explore the ruins at your own pace, taking in incredible sights like El Castillo (the Pyramid of Kukulcan), the Great Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors.

And the best part? This exclusive private tour includes swimming at the scenic Cenote Ik Kil, lunch, and an onboard cooler with beers, sodas, and bottled water. It is stroller accessible with car seats provided, and you can start your day as early as 6 am or as late as 9 am.

You can tailor the itinerary to suit your interests, whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or someone who simply enjoys beautiful landscapes. Because it is a private tour the price is a bit high at $520 USD for two people (or $260 per person) but I think it can be worth it depending on your budget and preferences.

Book Your private journey here!

A pyramid in a grassy field with chichen itza in the background.

The Best Tour for Your Chichen Itza Adventure

If you’re planning a trip to Chichen Itza and staying in the city of Merida, this is one of the best tours I’ve been on! It was an affordable, informative, and fun experience. This full-day tour to Chichen Itza, Izamal, and a cenote from Merida was definitely worth it, especially since we only had 4 days to explore Yucatan on our trip.

Starting at 8 am, my day began with a convenient pick-up from my hotel in Merida. We set off on an adventure that included visiting two stunning historical sites – the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza and the yellow city of Izamal. But first, we made a quick stop at a convenience store for water and snacks!

At Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, I was amazed by the iconic El Castillo (the Pyramid of Kukulcan). In Izamal, I soaked up the vibrant culture of the city known for its stunning yellow-painted buildings.

But the tour wasn’t just about sightseeing, it was about the experience. I had the chance to swim in the beautiful Cenote Ik Kil, a natural sinkhole filled with fresh water. It was a truly unique experience that shouldn’t be missed. The tour does say it stops at Cenote Yokdzonot instead but I believe they pick between the two depending on the crowds for the day. (They are both stunning though)

To top it all off, the tour included a delicious Mexican lunch buffet where I could sample a variety of local dishes. The best part? This tour was limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. And the cancellation policy was flexible, allowing for a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

The only drawback of this tour was that our guide spoke in both Spanish and English, as our group consisted of passengers who needed translation between the two languages. Whenever he explained something, we had to patiently wait for the English version afterward. As someone who is not the most patient, this was a bit challenging for me.

In summary, this tour offered incredible value for money, combining some of Yucatans best bucket list places, it’s culture, and food in one well-planned itinerary. If you’re looking for an affordable way to explore outside of Merida and its surroundings, I highly recommend this tour.

Book The best tour here!

A woman in a red dress standing in front of a pyramid in chichen itza, mexico.

What to Bring and Wear

When visiting Chichen Itza, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s a list of essentials to bring and wear:

Opt for light and breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the heat.
Don’t forget sun protection like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Carry an umbrella and water-resistant shoes in case of rain in the jungle.
Bring cash for shopping with the vendors.
Consider bringing a selfie stick/tripod combo for capturing cool pictures.
Pack a bag with water and snacks to keep you energized throughout the day.
If you plan to swim in nearby Cenotes, don’t forget to bring a swimsuit, water shoes, and a towel.
Keep in mind that if it rains, some parts of the grounds may get muddy.

I wore a light sundress, hat, sunglasses and sandals. I went with a wrap dress and my swimsuit underneath because I knew I would be swimming after this stop. My husband had a backpack that kept our swim shoes and towels inside, along with snacks and water we picked up at the store.

Maximizing Your Experience

When visiting Chichen Itza, there are several tips to keep in mind to make the most of your experience.

•One of my best tips that I discovered is to head to the East and South sides of the pyramid to capture the most stunning photos. The lighting and angles from these locations offer unique perspectives of the ancient ruins.

•In addition to exploring Chichen Itza, I recommend visiting nearby attractions to make the region worth visiting. Valladolid, Izamal, and Cenote Ik Kil are all worth exploring. Valladolid is a charming colonial town with great architecture and historic sites. Izamal is known for its yellow-painted buildings and the people there were so friendly when I stopped by.

Cenote Ik Kil is a breathtaking natural sinkhole that offers an opportunity to cool off and swim in crystal-clear waters. I had a blast jumping off the cliff into the water! Progreso also has great beaches near Merida if you’re looking for something near the city.

•While exploring these areas, it’s important to note that local vendors may try to persuade you to buy their products. Remember that haggling is part of their livelihood, so politely decline if you’re not interested and continue on your way. It’s a good practice to respect their work while still making choices that align with your interests and budget.

Overall, visiting Chichen Itza and its surrounding areas can be a memorable and affordable experience (check out how much I spent on my trip here). By following these practical tips and being open to new experiences, you’ll make the most out of your trip and create unforgettable memories.

About Chichen Itza

Entrance Tickets

Let’s talk about visiting Chichen Itza, one of the must-see ancient cities in Yucatan, Mexico. First things first, you’ll need to get your entrance tickets. The Chichen Itza entry fee is $95 Mexican pesos (around $6 USD), but if you’re a foreign visitor, it’s an additional $548 Mexican pesos (approximately $32 USD). You can grab your tickets at the Archaeological Zone ticket office when you arrive. So, the total entrance fee comes to $643 Mexican Pesos or $38 USD.

Operating Hours

Now, let’s talk about the operating hours. Chichen Itza is open every day from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, with the last entry at 4 pm. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to get there early in the morning.

History

Time for some history! Chichen Itza was built by the Mayan civilization over a thousand years ago. One of the must-see structures is El Castillo, a massive pyramid used for religious ceremonies. It’s pretty impressive, but unfortunately, we can’t climb it anymore since 2008, right after it became a UNESCO Site.

In the past, Chichen Itza had a dark side, involving the practice of human sacrifices. However, it also hosted lively events such as markets and entertaining games.

The city was eventually abandoned due to drought, exhausted soils, and the collapse of the Mayan Civilization. Luckily, it was rediscovered in 1841 by an American explorer named John L. Stephens.

So, while you can’t climb the Pyramid anymore, you can still appreciate its beauty and explore the surrounding areas. Just be ready to immerse yourself in ancient history and have an awesome time!

FAQs

How long do you need at Chichen Itza?

When visiting Chichen Itza, it is recommended to allocate around 2 to 3 hours for your visit. This should give you enough time to explore the main highlights of this ancient Mayan city. From the iconic El Castillo pyramid to the Temple of the Warriors and the Great Ball Court, there is plenty to see and learn about in Chichen Itza.

Is it safe to Drive from Merida to Chichen Itza?

Yes, it is safe to drive from Merida to Chichen Itza. The route is well-traveled and the roads are generally in good condition. However, it is always important to exercise caution while driving, obey traffic rules, and be aware of other vehicles on the road.

Can I use Uber in Merida?

Yes, you can use Uber in Merida. Uber is available in Merida, providing convenient and reliable transportation services. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler visiting the city, Uber offers a convenient option for getting around and exploring all that Merida has to offer.

Final Thoughts-

When planning a trip from Merida to the incredible Chichen Itza, there are several options to consider like taking the bus, renting a car, or opting for a tour to make the most of your visit. As someone who went on one of the best tours, I can personally attest to the knowledge gained and the enjoyment of this excursion.

Chichen Itza itself is a remarkable site, filled with rich history and architectural wonders. When it comes to choosing how to get there, think about what you like and what you’ve done before. Making this smart choice will make your trip to Chichen Itza even more memorable.

Happy exploring!

What Are My Recommended Resources For Planning A Trip?

When planning my trip, I use my trusted trio of CheapOair, Viator, and Booking.com to provide a comprehensive solution for everything I need.

CheapOair is a go-to resource for affordable flight tickets. With its extensive network of over 600 airlines, it offers a wide array of choices, enabling you to easily compare prices and select the best deal that suits your budget and travel schedule.

Viator on the other hand, is an excellent platform for booking tours and activities. It provides access to thousands of sightseeing tours, attractions, and events in over 1,500 locations worldwide. It ensures you don’t miss out on the unique experiences each destination has to offer.

Booking.com is your reliable partner for accommodations. With over 28 million listings including hotels, apartments, and hostels, you can find the perfect place to stay that fits your budget and preference.

Together, these platforms make trip planning convenient, cost-effective, and fun. They ensure you have everything you need, from flights and accommodations to activities – at your fingertips.

Check Out My Resources Page For All My Recommended Travel Tools!

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How To Get From Merida To Chichen Itza + The Best Tour!