You can get from Merida to Chichen Itza by ADO bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, or taxi.
The cheapest and most popular option for traveling from Merida to Chichen Itza is by ADO bus, which costs USD 14 and takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
The fastest way is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi. Traveling by car takes about 1.5 hours.
Traveling across Mexico has been rewarding, and I’ve collected some valuable pointers.
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | ~1.5 hr | $14 |
| Shared Shuttle | ~1.5 hr | – |
| Private Transfer | ~1.5 hr | – |
| Taxi | ~1.5 hr | – |
| Rental Car | ~1.5 hr | – |
Getting to Chichen Itza from Merida
1. ADO Bus
Journey Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
A one-way ticket with the ADO bus costs only USD 14, making them the most popular option among travelers!
All ADO buses have air conditioning, reclinable seats, bathrooms, and TVs. They make the trip to Chichen Itza in only 1 hour and 45 minutes.
The buses depart from the ADO station in Merida and take you directly to the historical site. However, there are only three daily departures, so booking your bus tickets in advance is recommended!
The table below displays the ADO bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:15am | 09:00am | 1h 45m | $14 |  |
| 09:30am | 11:15am | 1h 45m | $14 | |
| 12:00pm | 01:45pm | 1h 45m | $14 | |
2. Shared Van Shuttle
Journey Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Since this is a popular tourist site, many travel agencies and tour operators in Merida offer daily shared van shuttles. Therefore, you should have no trouble finding a reliable agency to take you there!
You can probably also make a reservation for a shuttle at your hotel reception, so it’s best to check for availability in advance!
Shared shuttles are less crowded than the buses, but also slightly more expensive. The service and experience is similar to that of the bus, so it’s up to you to decide on your preferred mode of transport.
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes
A private transfer to Valladolid might be the best option if you prefer more comfort and flexibility but do not want to drive independently.
Your driver will pick you up at your hotel in Merida at your preferred time, and for an additional charge, it is often also possible to make stops on the way.
This is a good choice for groups or families since the price becomes very affordable once the vehicle costs are split among the group.
You can find many reliable travel agencies in Merida that provide this service, and make a reservation in advance!
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Traveling by rental car is an excellent option to visit the famous Mayan on a day trip.
Returning to Merida on the same day is possible with a drive time of under two hours.
Tip: Instead of traveling back to Merida on the same day, we recommend staying at least one night in the nearby town of Valladolid. Valladolid has beautiful, tiny cobblestone streets, cute cafés, and many good restaurants. It is also a good starting point to check out a few more cenotes.
6. Uber or Taxi
Journey Duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes
You can also take a taxi or Uber. This is usually a last-minute option for travelers, and I suggest you keep it as a last choice.
Other alternatives are much more convenient, but if you have no other choice, it’s possible to hail a taxi at an affordable price.
Just make sure to negotiate the price before departure, and ask for a reliable taxi company from a local or your hotel.
Best day tours in Chichen Itzá
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
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