You can travel from Cancun to Chichen Itza by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, plane, guided tour, or rental car. Check out our guide with all the important information.
A visit to Chichen Itza is one of the most unique and unforgettable experiences you can have in Mexico!
The ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza is the richest archaeological site in Mexico and one of the 7 Wonders of The World. This Mayan city is located on the Yucatan Peninsula near Valladolid in the state of Yucatan.
It was here that the first pyramid was built by ancient Mayans, along with other important structures such as plazas, temples, and ball courts that are still standing today!
Old Chichen Itza of Chichen Itza contains six Mayan ruins, while New Chichen is home to about twenty, which the ancient Mayans used as residences and ritual sites. And, of course, you can’t miss the most significant structure during your visit- El Castillo!
Taking a tour of Chichen Itza is a great way to discover and explore the beautiful ruins of Mayan culture! So, if you’re looking for a fun way to experience this magnificent landmark- we recommend this All-Inclusive Tour of Chichen Itza, the Cenotes, and Valladolid!
Explore a Maya ceremonial center while touring the spectacular archeological ruins of Chichén Itzá. After that, visit a sacred cenote before concluding with a buffet lunch in a restaurant and exploring Valladolid to end the day!
Read all the details and book a spot for this Chichen Itza Tour today!
Check out our guide for all the important information on traveling from Cancun to Chichen Itza.
Distance from Cancun to Chichen Itza
The distance from Cancun to Chichen Itza is about 197 kilometers or 122.4 miles by car. The drive takes around 3 hours.
Transportation Options from Cancun to Chichen Itza
The following table outlines all transportation options from Cancun to Chichen Itza:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| ADO Bus from Cancun to Chichen Itza | 3 hours 50 minutes | USD 36 |
| Shared Shuttle from Cancun to Chichen Itza | 3 hours | USD 24 |
| Private Transfer from Cancun to Chichen Itza | 3 hours | USD 96-USD 127 |
| Flight from Cancun to Chichen Itza | 50 minutes | USD 686-USD 1294 |
| Guided Tour | 10 hours | USD 134 |
| Rental Car from Cancun to Chichen Itza | 2 hours 40 minutes | – |
Getting to Chichen Itza from Cancun
1. ADO Bus from Cancun to Chichen Itza
Travel time: 3 hours 50 minutes
This first choice may be the greatest for you if you’re a budget traveler.
A convenient, budget-friendly, and extraordinarily safe method of transportation from Cancun to Chichen Itza is the ADO Coach Bus!
The ADO bus operator runs one direct daily bus from the Cancun ADO station to Chichen Itza.
The trip takes just under four hours, and a single ticket costs only USD 36!
Since departures aren’t frequent, we recommend booking a seat in advance. You can quickly and safely book your bus tickets online to ensure your trip from Cancun to Chichen Itza!
2. Shared Shuttle from Cancun to Chichen Itza
Travel time: 3 hours
Another inexpensive option to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza is booking a seat on a shared van shuttle!
Some companies provide shared transportation and transfer fewer people than the bus, so you can get to Chichen Itza faster while still saving some money.
It takes 3 hours to reach Chichen Itza by minivan; therefore, you will have a quick and comfortable journey!
However, remember that the shuttle has only one daily departure early in the morning, so make sure you save a spot before the seats are taken!
A single ticket costs USD 24, and you can book yours online now!
3. Private Transfer from Cancun to Chichen Itza
Travel time: 3 hours
If you want maximum comfort and ease, arranging a private transfer from Cancun to Chichen Itza is the best choice!
The ride takes around 3 hours, and you have the freedom to arrange your schedule completely! Choose your pickup and drop-off points, depart whenever you wish, and travel comfortably!
This option is incredibly convenient if you’re traveling with a group since there are different deals on different group sizes.
So, gather your group and travel from Cancun to Chichen Itza with a private transfer for the most enjoyable trip!
Prices for a private transfer from Cancun to Chichen Itza
- Up to 4 passengers (Standard Car): USD 127
- Up to 10 passengers (Comfort Minivan): USD 96
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4. Flight from Cancun to Chichen Itza
Travel time: 50 minutes
Alternatively, there is always the option to go all out and see Chichen Itza from the clouds – by booking a seat on a private plane!
A private or shared flight to Chichen Itza has several advantages, including total exclusivity, an amazing experience, and huge time-saving.
Private flights to Chichen Itza are always available through Flights Cancun! Therefore, you can plan your breathtaking flight whenever you choose and see Chichen Itza from above!
The flight to the ancient site takes less than one hour. Although this option is way more expensive than all the other alternatives, it provides an experience like no other!
So, be ready for some incredibly unique and captivating views along the route.
Book a private flight from Cancun to Chichen Itza right away for the most luxurious journey!
From our experience, Skyscanner usually shows the best deals. Alternatively, you can book a flight from Cancun to Chichen Itza on Bookaway.
Find the cheapest flights on Skyscanner
5. Transfer+Tour on a Day Tour Bus from Cancun to Chichen Itza
Travel time: 10 hours
Taking a guided tour is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun. You can choose from various options, and we can even assist you in organizing them!
We recommend this Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour!
To ensure you have a well-rounded experience, the full-day tour combines various activities!
In addition to a visit to the Chichen Itza ancient site, the itinerary includes a visit to historic Valladolid, a swim in a local sacred cenote, a buffet lunch, and a free round-trip hotel transfer!
The journey takes around 10 hours, making it a fantastic day trip from Cancun!
Book and arrange your tour from Cancun to Chichen Itza here!
6. Driving with Rental Car from Cancun to Chichen Itza
Travel time: 2 hours 40 minutes
And finally, driving with a rental car is another convenient method to travel from Cancun to Chichen Itza!
It is relatively simple to drive between Quintana Roo and Yucatan in this region of Mexico. It is a tourist-heavy and safe area because the roads are generally straight and well-maintained.
The journey takes just under three hours, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and see more things along the way!
The main benefit of renting a car is choosing your own agenda.
Mexico has various inexpensive rental car options, so explore your options and make the best choice!
We recommend you make a reservation in advance!
Best day tours in Chichen Itza, Mexico
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Check out the following widgets for more day tours in Chichen Itza, Mexico!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest option to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza?
The cheapest option to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza is by shared shuttle. A single shared shuttle ticket costs USD 24!
What is the fastest way to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza?
The fastest way to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza is on a private plane. This is the most luxurious and fastest option to get you to Chichen Itza in only 50 minutes!
What is the best way to get to Chichen Itza?
Booking a guided tour or hiring a private transfer is the best way to get to and experience Chichen Itza! Besides getting transport, you will also get a deeper glimpse into the beauty and history of this famous Mexican landmark and get a day filled with activities!
Is the drive from Cancun to Chichen Itza safe?
Yes, it is generally believed to be safe to travel by car from Cancun to Chichen Itza. The route is fairly simple, and the roads are in excellent condition. Since Yucatan is the safest state in Mexico, many visitors make the daily trip from Cancun to Chichen Itza without incident.
Is Chichen Itza worth visiting?
Yes! A visit to Chichen Itza is undoubtedly worthwhile. The main pyramid is particularly stunning, and the place is a historical marvel. It will most likely be the highlight of your trip to Mexico!
What is the entrance fee for Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza’s entrance cost is MXN 538 or USD 26 USD for adults, and children under 13 enter for free. Another thing to remember is that parking in Chichen Itza costs 80 pesos, or about USD 4.
Is it hard to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun?
Regardless of your transportation mode, visiting Chichen Itza from Cancun is simple.
Can you still climb the pyramid at Chichen Itza?
The largest and most well-known pyramid at Chichen Itza, El Castillo, is not accessible, and people aren’t allowed to climb it.
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