Yucatan, Mexique – A Day at Chichen Itza, Cenote Oxman & Valladolid (November 2024)
In November 2024, during a family trip to the Riu Yucatan in Mexico, we took the opportunity to leave the resort and explore a little of what the Yucatan Peninsula has to offer.
While the Playacar beach is wonderful on its own – swimming, snorkeling, long peaceful walks – it was unthinkable for me to come to Mexico without discovering some of the ancient Mayan sites in the region.
The Yucatan is home to stunning archaeological sites, beautiful cenotes perfect for swimming, and charming colonial towns full of character. This region offers a unique blend of Mayan heritage, colonial history, and natural beauty.
When to Go to Yucatan
The best time to visit the Yucatan Peninsula, in terms of weather, is during the dry season, from November to April. During this period, temperatures are more pleasant and there is less rain.
It’s best to avoid the rainy season (from May to October) if you want to minimize the risk of hurricanes, especially between August and October.
If your goal is to avoid crowds, consider traveling in April to June or October to November. However, try to avoid March, as it is “Spring Break”, and the region can be quite busy with partying students.
Excursion : Chichen Itza, Cenote Oxman & Valladolid
I mentioned in my trip planning article how Facebook travel groups can be incredibly helpful when researching a destination. And it was thanks to one of those groups that I was able to get in contact with Tours Del Carmen Francophone.
After a few exchanges on WhatsApp, we chose the combined excursion to Chichén Itzá, Cenote Oxman, and Valladolid, in a small group with a French-speaking guide. However, keep in mind that they offer several different options to suit all preferences, so don’t hesitate to check their website for more details.
For those who prefer the same style of excursion but with an English-speaking guide, you’ll also find excellent small-group options on GetYourGuide. (I’ll link the one that aligns closest to our experience – feel free to take a look).
Fisrt Stop : Chichen Itza
The day began around 7:00 a.m., when we were picked up directly at our hotel. We were a small group of about ten people, accompanied by Jo, a French-speaking guide from the agency. He was truly friendly and made the drive feel much shorter than it actually was.
After a few hours in the minibus, we arrived at the legendary archaeological site of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There, another French-speaking guide – whose Mayan ancestors came from the region – led us through the fascinating history of the Kukulcan Pyramid, the Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and many other structures throughout the site.
Even though Chichen Itza is visited by many tourists, the energy of the place is undeniable. Standing in front of this over 1,000-year-old pyramid, so perfectly aligned with the movements of the sun, is both impressive and deeply moving. It’s the kind of place you should see at least once in your lifetime.
Second Stop : Lunch Break
We then stopped at a small local restaurant for lunch, where a buffet was available so that everyone could choose what they liked. While we were eating, a group of women performed traditional dances for us – balancing bottles of beer and glasses on their heads. It was truly impressive. These women completely captivated me – their aura, their presence, their grace. I found them beautiful, talented, and deeply inspiring to watch.
Third Stop : Cenote Oxman
We continued our day with a visit to Cenote Oxman, an open-air natural sinkhole known for its spectacular beauty – with vines hanging down from the rim and platforms for swimming, including a swing rope, a zipline, and a spot to jump into the water. It’s considered one of the most beautiful cenotes in the area around Chichen Itza.
The cenote is located on a charming hacienda, where you’ll also find a pool with loungers and a small restaurant.
It was a lovely moment – a refreshing swim in turquoise waters, surrounded by a stunning natural setting. It was my first time in a cenote, and it’s definitely something I would love to experience again on a future trip to Mexico.
Good to Know: The access to the water is down a staircase of more than 70 steps, and the cenote is around 40 meters deep. For this reason, lifejackets are mandatory for swimming.
Fourth Stop : Valladolid
To end the day, we visited the colonial town of Valladolid, known for its colorful architecture, lively main square, and authentic charm. We had time to wander freely, admire the buildings, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
We also took the opportunity to stop for an ice cream, which was a sweet little break before heading back. It was a short but very enjoyable visit – one that left us wanting to return and explore more next time.
Budget & Excursion Costs
The cost of this excursion in November 2024 was 2,500 pesos per person (≈ $170 per person) and included: transportation, a French-speaking guide, drinks on the bus, a buffet lunch and entrance fees to all sites visited.
A 500-peso deposit was required at the time of booking (paid via PayPal for 3 people). The remaining balance was paid in cash at the end of the day in Valladolid (both pesos and euros were accepted).
As always, tips for the driver and the guide were not included and are recommended – especially if you enjoyed your day.
In Conclusion
This day was a beautiful blend of history, nature, and gentleness. From the majesty of the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza, to the refreshing swim in Cenote Oxman, and the quiet charm of Valladolid, it’s a day we will remember fondly.
I loved the range of emotions we experienced throughout the day. It’s the kind of experience that reminds us why we travel: to learn, to feel, and to meet the world with open eyes.
If you are staying in the Playa del Carmen or Tulum area, I truly recommend planning this excursion. It’s an accessible and meaningful way to discover the beauty of the Yucatan.
👉 You can also discover our day at Rio Secreto & Tulum here. (Coming soon)
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