Simply a fabulous, unforgettable day!
This trip is an early start (6.30ish from Playacar) but there is a good 2 hours in the AC minivan before a stop off for the free breakfast and an opportunity to buy some much needed caffeine. Chichen itza is then just 30 mins away. Try to avoid a Sunday, as its the day the locals have free access which means it's even busier than normal.
The tour around the site is excellent, our guide Enrique, who was an excellent host all day, stood in an translated with a good level of knowledge for around 45 mins, leaving an hour to explore the grounds and the numerous stalls selling gifts and souvenirs. The site overall is so well preserved and so much to see, so you will need to move at pace, but it is truly exceptional!
Then, an hour or so journey to Maya Cenote, where we repelled down in to the cenote, which was just amazing, even for some of us with fears of heights! We then spent 30-60 mins enjoying the cenote, swimming, diving, jumping and flying off the zip line into the water. Our teenage boys in particular could have stayed all day they were enjoying themselves so much.
Lunch was then served, Chicken, Rice, Beans and a local delicacy, a corn based patty combined with a local plant, which was delicious.
The ritual before the plunge into the cenote, given by the Shamen was also a great experience.
As is the norm, the photos being taken and sold by the venue are an important money maker. 20usd for 1, or 80 for everything they take of you.
The journey back to Coast is just under 2 hours, giving plenty of time for yet another nap!
An incredible, must do day. Thanks Enrique!!
George was our guide and was very informative! The driver was funny too! I was impressed with George's mastery of French, English, and Spanish! George was encouraging with the repelling to the cenote as well!