In the heart of the archaeological park of Chichen Itza, Chichen Itza, Mexico | (618) 248-8274
Lush tropical grounds just outside the Chichen Itza ruins
Historic property with old hacienda feel, has hosted famous guests
Quiet and peaceful setting, convenient for Yucatan day trips
Most rooms and bungalows have large balconies and soaking tubs
Multiple restaurants, bars, and al fresco dining
Three outdoor pools open year-round
Miles of trails for horseback riding and biking (free bikes available)
Spa treatments available
Free Wi-Fi in reception area
Wi-Fi typically only available in reception area
Extra charge for breakfast
Some rooms experience noise and minor maintenance issues
Many stairs, which can pose mobility issues for some guests
Large tour groups can create crowds at meal times
Hotel & Bungalows Mayaland is a value property located in the middle of the Mayan jungle near the Chichen Itza archaeological ruins. Built in 1923, it has an Old Yucatan style and has hosted famous names like Princess Diana and Luciano Pavarotti. The 54 rooms, suites, and bungalows are clean and spacious, with minibars and air-conditioning. Most have soaking tubs and large balconies and some have temple views -- but rooms can pose minor maintenance issues and Wi-Fi is non-existent outside of reception. Features include three outdoor pools, buffet and a la carte restaurants, a spa, and miles of lush trails for biking and horseback riding. Travelers looking for more of a boutique experience could also consider The Lodge at Chichen Itza, but rates are higher.
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Scene
Old Yucatan-style property with hacienda feel
The Hotel & Bungalows Mayaland was one of the first modern properties to be built amidst the Chichen Itza ruins. Constructed in 1923, the hotel was designed to resemble the haciendas of a bygone era. It maintains an elegant feel, especially in the two-level lobby decorated with wood and brown leather furniture and numerous potted plants. Some parts of the property show their age and there are many stairs to navigate. Outside, the tropical jungle surroundings are mostly quiet and calm -- which may help explain why famous guests such as Luciano Pavarotti, President Kennedy, and Princess Diana have chosen to stay here. Mornings can be busy as large tour groups prepare to head out for the day, but all is quiet at night and there's an amazing sky full of stars.
Location
In the jungle amidst Chichen Itza ruins
This property is located only 10 minutes' walk from the Chichen Itza archaeological site. It's surrounded by tropical jungle, and there are a few other hotels nearby. This is an ideal location for tourists who want to be in the heart of the Yucatan and enter the archaeological site early in the morning, before the crowds arrive. This is also a convenient location for large groups planning to take day trips around the Yucatan Peninsula. The small Mayan city of Piste is a 10-minute drive away and has restaurants, bars, and grocery stores. Valladolid, the closest big city, is a 40- to 50-minute drive away, while Tulum is a two-hour drive. Cancun International Airport is about two hours and 15 minutes away by car. Merida International Airport is about an hour- and 45-minute drive.
Rooms
Spacious rooms and bungalows, some with balconies and temple views
Rooms, suites, and bungalows are available and all have a similar decor. The mostly white and light blue color scheme is accented with colorful hanging lamps, rustic wooden furniture, and terra-cotta or checkered tile floors. Ceilings are somewhat low but rooms are spacious and most have large balconies -- some have distant temple views. Bungalows are more charming. These have pitched wooden roofs and beds wrapped in white mosquito netting. Some bathrooms are older and have shower/tub combos, while renovated marble bathrooms have large soaking tubs and separate glass-door rainfall showers. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided.Standard amenities include minibars, coffeemakers, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and safes. There's a decent amount of storage space available. This is an older property, so the wooden louvres can let in hot, humid air and occasional corridor noise. Wi-Fi is free but can be slow or non-existent.
Features
Three outdoor pools, restaurants and bars, and free bikes for exploring lush trails
Features here are convenient and in keeping with the natural aesthetic of the area. The property has a few different dining and bar options to choose from. The main restaurant with an outdoor patio serves Mayan and Mexican cuisine as well as international favorites for all meals -- breakfast is not included with rates. There's also a buffet restaurant with brick archways, and a terrace serving wood-fired pizza and tacos. The cafe serves sweets and coffee, while the main bar occupies a bright and attractive, open-air space. Three outdoor pools are available to guests year-round, and there's a poolside grill. A small spa offers massages, manicures and pedicures, and facials. Miles of trails around the property are great for horseback riding and biking -- bikes are available to borrow for free. Parking is free on-site. There is free Wi-Fi in reception, but it typically does not extend to rooms.
