Chacchoben Ruins Premier Tour Indulge in the finest Chacchoben Experience

Chacchoben Ruins Premier Tour Summary

Embark on an exclusive, small-group adventure with The Native Choice, your premier partner for unforgettable Costa Maya excursions. Strictly limited to just ten guests, our Chacchoben Ruins Premier Tour offers a unique exploration of this ancient Mayan city and a deeply immersive experience.

Venture into the heart of Chacchoben's Ceremonial Center, led exclusively by the region's most experienced and highly-qualified guides. With their advanced degrees and unmatched expertise, they offer a truly exceptional experience. In this intimate group setting, you'll have ample opportunities for insightful conversations and personalized interactions.

Recognizing that a visit to Chacchoben may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we have meticulously curated this tour to exceed your expectations. From the moment you step into our air-conditioned vehicle until your return to the port, our commitment to exceptional service and over two decades of expertise delighting cruise ship passengers will shine through.

Enjoy complimentary refreshments, inclusive entrance fees, and the freedom to capture your memories with our complimentary video recording permits.

Chacchoben Ruins Premier Tour Overview

Rates (Through December 31st, 2025)

Due to the nature and focus of this experience, we regret infants are not permitted on this tour. Our Classic Chacchoben Ruins Tour allows infants free or charge.

Tour Meeting Point

Your tour will depart from The Native Choice Kiosk, located just a few easy steps outside the main port gate. Your tour confirmation email includes easy-to-follow directions, a detailed map, and local contact numbers to ensure a stress-free start to your day.

Chacchoben Ruins Tour Itinerary

Tour Duration

4 Hours

Tour Departure Times & Availability

We offer daily departures year-round. For cruise ship guests, the earliest tour departs one hour after your ship docks; later times may be available depending on your vessel's time in port. Please note that availability is limited on Christmas Day and New Year's Day, so advance booking is highly recommended.

Booking and Payment Policy

Deposit

To secure your spot on this popular tour, a minimum deposit of $15.00 USD per person is required. You also have the option to pay the full balance at the time of booking, if you prefer.

Worry-Free Guarantee

All payments (deposits or full amounts) are fully refundable if your cruise ship is unable to dock in Costa Maya for any reason. Your booking is completely safe with us.

Cancellation & No-Show Policy

Cancellations

You may cancel your reservation up to 2 days before your scheduled tour to avoid a $15.00 USD per person cancellation fee.

No-Shows

No-Shows are subject to a $15.00 USD per person fee.

Know Before You Go

Physical Activity Level

This is a walking tour suitable for people with a basic level of fitness and good health. Participants must be comfortable with outdoors and be able to walk on trails under the jungle expecting a few rocks and roots along the way.

Operating Conditions

To ensure you don't miss out, our tour operates rain or shine. Check the day's forecast and prepare accordingly. Bring essentials like a hat and sunscreen for sun or a light jacket and water-resistant shoes for rain.

Important Notes & Site Rules

• We find that children ages 10 and older get the most enjoyment and appreciation out of the historical content of this tour.
• Tripods and drones are strictly prohibited inside the archaeological zone.

Recommendations for Your Tour

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat and sun screen if you visit during the summer.
• Bring extra cash for any shopping or small purchases, as cards are not accepted at Chacchoben.

Chacchoben Ruins Premier Tour Additional Details

While the exact origins of Chacchoben remain somewhat mysterious, archaeological evidence suggests that the site was inhabited as early as 200 BC. However, the most significant period of construction and occupation occurred during the Classic Period (250-900 AD).

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

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

Despite its eventual abandonment, Chacchoben remains a testament to the advanced civilization of the ancient Maya. The well-preserved ruins offer a glimpse into their complex society, artistic abilities, and deep spiritual beliefs.

Your tour departs from The Native Choice Kiosk, located just steps from the port entrance. Detailed, stress-free directions are included in your confirmation.

The trip from Costa Maya to Chacchoben is a 50-minute drive on good roads. We pass through two towns, providing a quick look at local village life en route.

Still under active investigation, Chacchoben presents a dynamic visual experience. You'll see a captivating mix of fully restored temples alongside jungle-covered mounds, showcasing the city's journey from past glory to modern discovery.

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. Our paths and trails are largely leveled, allowing for a relaxed, slow-paced exploration. To maximize your comfort, please inform us in advance if you require a collapsible chair or an umbrella; our friendly staff is always happy to assist you throughout the tour. For the best experience, we encourage you to review our tour meeting point information before booking.