Chichen Itza & Ekbalam With Cenote Swim From Playa Del Carmen

Chichen Itza and Ek Balam offer a captivating glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. Travelers can experience the grandeur of these iconic archaeological sites on a 14-hour adventure from Playa del Carmen. The tour includes round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, a delicious lunch, and a refreshing swim in a cenote. With so much to discover, it’s no wonder this excursion has become a popular choice among visitors…

Key Points

• This tour explores the UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza and the lesser-known Ek Balam Mayan archaeological sites from Playa del Carmen.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional guide, a buffet lunch, and a refreshing swim in a cenote.
• Visitors can climb the ancient ruins at Ek Balam for a unique experience and marvel at the iconic El Castillo pyramid at Chichen Itza.
• Additional costs include entrance fees to Chichen Itza ($7 USD) and Ek Balam ($33 USD CULTUR fee), as well as mandatory life jacket rentals ($3 USD).
• The tour lasts approximately 14 hours and has a maximum group size of 18 travelers, with positive reviews highlighting the immersive cultural experiences.

Tour Overview

This tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore two renowned Mayan archaeological sites – Chichen Itza and Ek Balam – all in a single day-long excursion from Playa del Carmen.

Priced at $83 per person, the tour lasts approximately 14 hours from pickup to drop-off, with a maximum group size of 18 travelers.

It includes round-trip transportation, a professional guide, a buffet lunch, and a refreshing swim in a cenote.

While Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage site, the lesser-known Ek Balam site allows visitors to climb its ancient ruins, providing a more immersive experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour itinerary highlights two remarkable Mayan archaeological sites – UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza and the lesser-known Ek Balam.

At Chichen Itza, visitors can marvel at the iconic El Castillo pyramid and learn about the ancient Mayan culture from a professional guide.

At Chichen Itza, visitors can marvel at the iconic El Castillo pyramid and learn about the ancient Mayan culture from a professional guide.

The tour then proceeds to the Ek Balam site, which offers a unique opportunity to climb the ruins and explore this lesser-known gem.

In addition, the tour includes a refreshing swim in a cenote and a delicious buffet lunch, providing a well-rounded cultural and natural experience.

Key highlights:

1. Visit the UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza and Ek Balam archaeological sites.
2. Enjoy a swimming adventure in a cenote.
3. Indulge in a buffet lunch to refuel after exploring the ancient ruins.

Costs and Inclusions

Although the tour is competitively priced, there are additional costs travelers should consider. The round-trip transportation, professional guide, buffet lunch, and cenote admission are included.

However, visitors must pay $7 USD for Chichen Itza admission and $33 USD for the CULTUR fee. Accessing Ek Balam also requires a $26 USD CULTUR fee.

Life jacket rentals are mandatory at $3 USD per person, payable in cash. Travelers should budget for these extra expenses, which can add up quickly.

Transportation and Meeting Points

Pickup service is available from most hotels in the area. If your hotel doesn’t provide pickup, a nearby meeting point will be communicated via message or email the day before the tour.

After the tour, you’ll return to the original meeting point.

The transportation for this tour offers several benefits:

1. Convenient pick-up from your hotel, eliminating the need for you to arrange your own transportation.
2. Air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring a comfortable journey.
3. Return to the starting point, making it easy to get back to your accommodations after the tour.

Traveler Feedback

What do travelers say about this Chichen Itza and Ekbalam tour? Based on 111 reviews, the tour earns an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who provide an immersive experience exploring the ancient Mayan sites. However, some note the long drive times and limited free time at Chichen Itza.

Recommendations include bringing snacks and sun protection, especially during summer months.

Exploring Chichen Itza

As the crown jewel of the Yucatan Peninsula, Chichen Itza stands as one of the most impressive and well-preserved Mayan ruins in the world.

Visitors are captivated by the colossal El Castillo pyramid, the intricate carvings adorning the Temple of Warriors, and the enigmatic Ball Court, where ancient Mayan ballgames were played.

Visitors are captivated by the colossal El Castillo pyramid, the intricate carvings of the Temple of Warriors, and the enigmatic Ball Court.

The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the sophisticated civilization that thrived here centuries ago.

Key highlights of exploring Chichen Itza include:

1. Marveling at the architectural wonders and engineering feats of the Mayans.
2. Uncovering the site’s rich history and cultural significance through the guidance of knowledgeable local experts.
3. Experiencing the serene atmosphere and natural beauty that permeates the ancient ruins.

Discovering Ek Balam

While Chichen Itza stands as the most renowned archaeological site in the Yucatan, the lesser-known Ek Balam offers travelers a chance to explore a captivating Mayan ruin in a more intimate setting.

Situated just a short drive from Chichen Itza, Ek Balam’s well-preserved structures and intricate carvings provide a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can climb the impressive Acropolis, the tallest temple on-site, and wander through the ancient city’s plazas and residential areas.

With fewer crowds than its more famous counterpart, Ek Balam allows visitors to enjoy the Mayan past at a leisurely pace.

Refreshing Cenote Swim

After exploring the ancient Mayan ruins, travelers can cool off with a refreshing swim in a nearby cenote.

These natural sinkholes offer a chance to escape the heat and immerse in the crystal-clear waters.

The cenote visit includes:

1. An opportunity to swim and snorkel in the serene, azure waters, surrounded by lush foliage.
2. A chance to admire the impressive limestone formations and stalactites that adorn the cenote’s interior.
3. An insight into the cultural significance of these sacred water sources for the Mayan people.

The cenote swim provides a rejuvenating break before continuing the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour generally includes a buffet lunch, so bringing your own food and drinks is not necessary. However, you’re welcome to pack snacks or water if you prefer. Just be sure to follow any venue rules about outside food and beverages.

Is There a Bathroom Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are bathrooms available during the tour. The tour includes stops at various sites, and restroom facilities are provided for participants to use as needed throughout the day.

Can I Leave the Group at Any Time During the Tour?

No, participants are generally expected to remain with the group throughout the tour. Leaving the group on your own could be unsafe and may impact the schedule for the rest of the travelers. Adherence to the itinerary is typically required.

Is There an Option to Do the Tour in a Different Language?

The tour company offers the option to do the tour in different languages, though the availability may vary. Travelers should inquire about language options when booking the tour to ensure they can participate in their preferred language.

Can I Take Pictures of the Ruins and Artifacts?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos of the ruins and artifacts at the archaeological sites on this tour. However, there may be some restricted areas where photography is prohibited, so it’s best to follow the guide’s instructions.

The Sum Up

This captivating 14-hour tour from Playa Del Carmen offers a chance to explore the iconic Chichen Itza, the ancient ruins of Ek Balam, and cool off with a refreshing swim in a cenote. With round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and a delicious buffet lunch included, it’s an excellent way to learn about the rich Mayan culture and stunning natural beauty of the region.