Costa Maya's Classic Chacchoben Ruins Premier Tour

Experience an exclusive, small-group adventure to the ancient Mayan city of Chacchoben with The Native Choice, your premier partner for unforgettable Costa Maya excursions. Strictly limited to just ten guests, our Chacchoben Ruins Premier Tour offers an intimate and immersive exploration unlike any other.

Venture into the heart of Chacchoben's Ceremonial Center, led by the region's most experienced and highly-qualified guides. With their advanced degrees and unmatched expertise, they offer a truly exceptional experience. This intimate group setting allows for insightful conversations and personalized interactions, ensuring all of your questions are answered.

We understand that a visit to Chacchoben is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we have meticulously curated this tour to exceed your expectations. From the moment you step into our comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle until your return to the port, our commitment to exceptional service and over two decades of expertise will shine through.

Enjoy complimentary refreshments, inclusive entrance fees, and the freedom to capture your memories with our included video recording permits. We handle every detail so you can focus on the experience of this adventure.

Tour details

Pricing

$90.00 Adults [Participants ages 13 y/o and older]
$90.00 Children [Participants ages 5 to 12 y/o]
Rates are quoted in US Dollars.

Tour duration

4 Hours

Operating days and departure times

This tour operates daily, with limited availability during Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Earliest departure for cruise ship guests is one hour after the ship docks.

Difficulty level

Easy

This is a walking tour and includes walking on trails under the jungle. Climbing at least 13 steps is needed to see the temples on top of Gran Basamento.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone, we recommend contacting us in advance if you require mobility assistance or have specific accessibility needs. This allows us to discuss availability to accommodate your needs and the best tour options for your visit.

Tour meeting point

Meet us at The Native Choice Kiosk, conveniently located just steps from the Costa Maya Port. Detailed directions, contact information, and a map will be included in your confirmation email to kick off your unforgettable adventure!

Costa Maya offers a variety of exciting tours and activities!
While the cruise lines provide their own excursion options, you also have the chance to discover the authentic charm of Costa Maya with local companies like us, always at better rates than onboard options. To meet our friendly representatives and access a wider selection of tours, you'll just need to head conveniently outside the port terminal.

Policies

• A deposit of $15.00 USD per person is required at the time of booking to confirm spaces on this tour.
• Your remaining balance is due in cash (USD or MXN) at check-in. Alternatively, you can pay your full reservation amount when booking.
• Since this tour has a particular focus, it is designed for adults. However, children ages 10 and older are welcome to join.
• This tour operates rain or shine.
• Full refund guaranteed if for any reason your cruise ship doesn't call port in Costa Maya at all.
• Cancellation policy is 2 days before the tour to avoid a cancellation fee of $15.00 USD per person.

Recommendations for your tour

• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• To protect yourself from the sun, especially during the summer months, bring a hat and sunscreen.
• Carry extra cash for any shopping or small purchases, as cards are not accepted at Chacchoben.
• We find this tour is most enjoyable for children aged 10 years and up.

Tour timetable

This tour is completed in 4 Hours.

Chacchoben Ruins gallery

About Chacchoben Ruins Premier Tour

While the exact origins of Chacchoben remain a mystery, archaeological evidence suggests the site was first inhabited around 200 BC. The most significant construction and occupation, however, took place during the Classic Period, between 250 and 900 AD.

During this time, Chacchoben flourished as a major urban center. Its inhabitants engaged in a variety of activities, including agriculture, trade, and religious rituals. The city's strategic location, nestled deep within the dense jungle, provided both natural protection and access to vital resources.

Like many other Mayan cities, Chacchoben experienced a decline around the 9th century AD. The reasons for its eventual abandonment are still debated among scholars, but are believed to be linked to a combination of factors, including environmental changes, social unrest, and economic instability.

Despite its decline, Chacchoben stands today as a powerful testament to the advanced civilization of the ancient Maya. Its well-preserved ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into their complex society, intricate artistic abilities, and deep spiritual beliefs.

This tour departs from The Native Choice Kiosk, conveniently located just steps from the port entrance. For a stress-free start, we include detailed meeting point information on all tour confirmations.

The ride from Costa Maya to Chacchoben Ruins takes 50 minutes, the road is in good condition and passes through two towns offering a glimpse into local life.

Chacchoben is still under investigation, it has a fascinating mix of restored and unrestored structures, offering a unique perspective of the city's past and a glimpse into ongoing archeological efforts.

For preservation purposes, visitors are NOT allowed to climb the temples.
Climbing is permited at Gran Basamento to explore the temples on top of it.

Guests with walking difficulties can still enjoy the beauty of Chacchoben. The leveled paths and trails allow for a slow-paced exploration. To ensure your comfort, please let us know in advance if you require a collapsible chair or umbrella. Our friendly staff is always happy to assist you throughout the tour. Before booking, please review our tour meeting point information.

Tripods and drones aren't allowed into the site.

Chacchoben's service area has a cafeteria selling drinks, water, ice cream, and snacks. Only cash (US Dollas or MX Pesos) is accepted for payments.