Mariannabanana, Feb 2025
Beyond Expectations
If I could rate 10 stars, I would! This private tour was more than I expected. My husband had arranged this tour, and he could not believe how easy it was. We chose the starlit Chichen Itza tour. I have done a tour of Chichen Itza with a Cenote tour in the past, and it was a giant bus of probably 60-80 people during the day. It was crowded, hot, and not all that enjoyable. This night tour was the complete opposite!We were picked up by our guide. Axel and driver, Marvin. Marvin was a complete gentleman, opening the door for me and handing me the seatbelt. It was such a nice gesture, and I felt like a queen.
Instantly, in the car, we felt like friends.
On our drive, we chatted about everything!
My husband was still getting over a cough from way before our trip, and Axel made a stop on our way to get a healing honey mixture from a local stand that also happened to sell the most delicious treats. I'm not sure where this was, but if you take this tour, mention it to Axel to take you there!!!
We visited a cenote. We were the only ones there. We spent about 45 minutes in complete heaven. So peaceful and beautiful. Once getting in the car there was a basket of fruit, snacks, water and beer!!
From there, we toured the city of Vallidolid. What a beautiful city. We walked all around, experiencing the architecture, the people, the local artisans, and vendors. We visited a park and ate a traditional marquesita. You must eat one on your visit! We went to another market where we sampled all kinds of different candies, cheese, etc. Never once did you feel pressured into buying a thing. All the vendors were very generous at giving samples and showing their offerings but never made you feel uncomfortable in the least.
We had a late lunch at the most exquisite restaurant called Ellaganzza. We sat on the back patio and had a traditional family dinner. Being that I was vegetarian, they prepared my own dish of empanadas. The food was beyond delicious!! Afterward, we decided to move on to the town of Piste just outside of Chichen Itza. We visited a park and ate a traditional marquesita. You must try one! We still had some time before the night show so Axel asked us if we wanted to go for a drink or if there was anything we'd like to do or see and we opted to grab a coffee. Of course, Axel knew the perfect place for us- Luna Cafe. What a gem this cafe was. It's an eclectic space with some cool art and an amazing playlist! The service was on point, and the coffees were so smooth. We got an opportunity to speak with the staff, and again, we felt like friends. On to Chichen Itza. What a way to experience the immenseness of a time and place in history. It should not be missed.
Of course, Axel had explained the history and significance and even had videos and photos to show us explaining further details.
And here is the best part of the tour: Marvin and Axel set up a birthday surprise for my husband! They filled the car with balloons, cupcakes with candles and a gift for him! This was beyond thoughtful and completely unexpected. My husband actually teared up.
Axel and Marvin, you really know how to treat people. Your kindness and generosity have not gone unnoticed. Both of you made us feel so special, and we are honoured to have been able to spend the day with you.
You will never get treatment like this on any other tour, so do yourself a favour and book with Jaguar Journeys.