SnRSeattle

Is it a day trip to Chichen Itza? Are there tours leaving from Akumal or Tulum? Is it reasonable to plan to go there for the day? When we were in Cozumel, they had fly in day trips. Is that an option if we were staying in Akumal or not reasonable? Thanks. We're planning our trip for early Dec.
Sally in Seattle

colokid

Hi Sally,

Yes, Chichen Itza is a good day trip from Akumal. I'm not sure about tours as we always drive ourselves so we can get there fairly early but in Dec the weather should be a bit cooler. There is a small airport in Playa del Carmen that has service to Chichen Itza.

SnRSeattle

Thanks for the response! Do you drive via Tulum or via PDC?
Thanks.
Sally in Seattle

colokid

I drive on the Coba Road from Tulum. It's easier and cheaper (free). The other road is the toll road by Cancun. At the light in Tulum turn right and follow to the end. Make a left toward Chichen Itza and Valladolid. Pretty easy drive.

sylvia3

Although the miles are shorter via the Coba--Valladolid road, it will take longer; you go through many small towns and over endless topes. The toll road is much faster (and expensive, ~$20 each way). I suggest getting an early start, taking the highway back to Cancun (directions given by previous poster), then taking the toll road direct to Chichen Itza (turnoff is right at the airport intersection). Then take the diagonal back to Tulum through Coba for a ride that you will enjoy.

SnRSeattle

Thanks, all, for your responses. New plan: go to Cancun a day early and go to Chichen Itza, then come back to Cancun to pick up DD and DGD to go to Akumal. I decided that a trip to Chichen Itza wouldn't appeal to a 2 1/2 yo--neither the drive nor the sights.
Sally

sylvia3

Good move; a tired, hot, bored toddler is no fun at all!