Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote from Cancun
Description
Our Chichen Itza Saamal Cenote and Ek Balam tour from Cancun brings you on a unique journey of history, culture and stunning natural beauty. An expert guide will lead the way as you explore the two Mayan ruins sites and swim in a sacred cenote, round-trip transportation and lunch included!
Tour Options
Itinerary
Cenotes are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula, natural limestone sinkholes of incredible natural beauty that are perfect for a refreshing swim in a jungle oasis. Immerse yourself in the crystalline waters and admire the spectacular rock formations!
Step into Naayil Kú Maya Village for an immersive cultural encounter guided by the Maya themselves. You’ll be welcomed by a Maya warrior and a shaman before walking a sacred jungle path filled with stories and symbolism. Receive a traditional blessing and cleansing, then browse a small handicrafts shop showcasing locally made pieces. The highlight is a live Mayan Ball Game demonstration performed by authentic warriors, followed by a tequila tasting.
The Mayan ruins of Ek Balam may be less famous than Chichen Itza but they are spectacular! Climb the incredible Acropolis and admire the exceptional carvings and art of the ancient Maya that has been so well preserved and maintained and enjoy the view from the top.
Depart Playa del Carmen and travel by air-conditioned minivan to Chichen Itzá, stopping for a 10-minute break along the way. Arrive at the sacred city of the Itzáes, where the sun ( k’in Ahau in the Mayan language) sets on March 21 and September 21 during the spring and fall equinoxes. Marvel at the great "pyramid" of Kukulkan Castle and discover an icon of astronomical, architectural, mathematical and engineering wisdom. Together with the platforms, the castle tells a story of the past through its many sculptures and representations of feathered serpents. See the masks of Chaac, the god of rain said to live in the sacred cenote (entrance to the underworld). Admire ancient engravings and glyphs established by the gods, according to the sacred book of "Popol Vuj." Explore the Astronomical Observatory (also known as "The Snail") and the area of the church, where masks from the Mayan classic period can be found.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
We offer pick up service in most hotels. In the event that your hotel does not have a pick-up service, we will let you know the closest meeting point the afternoon before the tour by sending a message to your telephone or a notification to the email address indicated in your reservation.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Reviews(2)
Would get 5 stars but logistics are horrible. We paid for the plus, we were told it was a 12 hour tour 7am to 7 pm. We got back at 9:20 and spent at least half of our day in a tiny van. The communications have mixed information. We did not know when or where our pickup was u til very late the night before. I have food allergies and could not get clear communication about it. They generally did not understand food allergies and were not creative in providing an equitable experience. Anyhow- I brought snacks because of my allergies. Our guide Patrick was amazing!! And the driver got the actual tour part Marcela was great too. The sites were great but were were running behind all day. I don’t understand why people from Cancún who are paying more are being taken advantage of and mislead. I am not sure I would have booked a 14+ hour tour. There are highways directly from Chichenitza to Cancun. There is a way to do bus transfers that doesn’t require those going to Cancun to have to travel to Playa del Carmen or Puerto Morales. The drivers to and from Cancun drove like they were playing a video game to win! I put my seatbelt on let’s just say. If the logistics were better this could have been 5 star.
This tour was well organized. Can recommend. Loved being at Chichen Itza earlier in the day before the crowds. Time there felt a little rushed, would have loved a little more time to walk around by myself. Our tour guide, Mynor, was knowledgeable and friendly. The driver was very competent. The cenote was so nice! Lunch was delicious. Also enjoyed the smaller Mayan ruin at Ekbalam where we had time to explore on our own. A delightful day. Thank you!
