Are you a huge fan of ancient cultures? If that’s true, taking a Chichen Itza and Coba tour will give you the chance to visit the most important historical sites of Mexico in one day.
Perhaps, while you’re planning your next trip, you realize that there are many places you can visit here in Mexico, including the most beautiful beaches of the Caribbean Sea but also several astounding ruins.
Then, you start to wonder, will I be able to see the most representative archaeological remains of the Mayans but also enjoy the warm and relaxing atmosphere of the coastal cities during the same holiday?
Of course, the answer is yes. Regardless of whether you stay in Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Tulum, you can easily explore these places and get in contact with the Mayan culture all in a day trip.
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Coba Ruins Guide 2025: Discover the site like a real explorerBut why a Chichen Itza and Coba tour? Now, keep reading and discover what makes these both sites so special and worth visiting.
Chichen Itza: the jewel of the Yucatan Peninsula
Since it was chosen as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza ruins have become the most relevant archaeological site of all Mexico.
This place, full of magic and history, is home to the most impressive architectural constructions of the Mayan culture.
During a Chichen Itza and Coba tour, you’ll appreciate fascinating structures, but also learn first-hand about the most advanced astronomical knowledge of the Mexican ancestors.
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Chichen Itza: 10 things no one will tell you
1. Admire the Kukulkan Pyramid
Also known as “El Castillo”, this four-sided pyramid, which you see in all the photos, is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites of the Mayan culture.
This nearly 100-feet-tall structure hides in its design the worldview of the Mayans and how advanced their knowledge of mathematics and astronomy was.
In total, the Castle has 365 steps, which represent each day of the year. In other words, this building is the physical representation of the Mayan calendar.
Also, during the spring equinox and autumn equinox, the sunlight casts a play of shadows on the northeast side of the pyramid, forming the silhouette of a snake.
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Chichen Itza: The Latest Discoveries
2. Explore the most secret cenote
In the surroundings of the Chichen Itza area, you can find the cenotes, natural sinkholes generally hidden inside caves and that many moons ago were considered by the Mayans as ceremonial sites.
Although Chichen Itza has become a very popular destination, it’s still possible to explore lesser-known cenotes, such as the Oxman cenote. Our local experts have visited more than 300 cenotes to find the most special cenotes, like this one.
Here you can enjoy a relaxing time swimming and snorkeling in the depths of the cenote. This way, you’ll refresh yourself to continue with your Chichen Itza and Coba tour.
Coba Mayan ruins: a mixture of culture and nature
Located in the heart of the Mayan jungle, between the towns of Tulum and Valladolid, the ruins of Coba distinguish themselves because they’ve remained less explored than other archeological sites in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Many of the Mayan constructions that Coba preserves are covered by the growth of greenery, so, as you explore the site, you’ll have a real sense of discovery.
But what are the most important things you can expect from a Coba tour?
1. Climb the Nohoch Mul Pyramid
With a height of almost 140 feet, Nohoch Mul is the tallest pyramid of the Yucatan Peninsula. But this is not the only reason that makes it one of the main attractions of a Chichen Itza and Coba tour.
Unlike other archaeological structures, you can actually climb the pyramid. There are 130 steps to the top, but there is a rope running up the middle of the stairs that you can hold on to for more safety.
At the top you will find a splendid panoramic view of the Mayan jungle that will be worth all the effort.
2. Explore the jungle riding a bike
To reach the Nohoch Mul pyramid, you must travel a distance of 1.2 miles, through paths surrounded by vines, trees and flowers. The journey will take you several hours on foot, which is perfect if you love hiking.
A fun alternative is to rent a bicycle and explore the jungle trails while you feel the breeze on your face and the scent of the vegetation. Actually, this is the only place where you can do this in the Riviera Maya.
Also, you’ll be able to appreciate the different species of animals that live in Coba, such as birds and monkeys, making you feel truly free.
3. Splash into the nearby cenotes
As expected, in the surroundings of Coba you can also find cenotes that you can visit to refresh yourself, swimming and diving in the clear water, and recharge your energy.
The difference with these cenotes is that most of them are hidden in the middle of the jungle, making them less known and less visited by tourists. In other words, a perfect site for a VIP experience.
Get ready to enjoy the best Chichen Itza and Coba tour in one day
As you can see, Chichen Itza and Coba have their own charm and exploring both areas is worthwhile.
Just keep in mind that if you want to see both places on a day trip, your best alternative is booking a private tour. Together with our local experts, you’ll design your own itinerary and visit each spot at your own pace.
Also, whether you are staying in Cancun, Tulum or Playa del Carmen, we’ll pick you up as early as you prefer, to arrive at the ruins before other tourists and enjoy an authentic experience without any tumult.
