This full-day tour from Cancun offers a captivating blend of ancient Maya history, refreshing natural swimming, and charming Mexican town exploration. For $68 per person, travelers spend around 11 to 12 hours visiting the Ek Balam archaeological site, swimming in the Chichikan Cenote, enjoying a local-style lunch, and exploring Uayma town. The tour is designed for those eager to experience authentic Yucatán culture, with guided insights and plenty of opportunities to photograph and relax.

While the price is quite reasonable, the duration and paced itinerary make it suitable for active visitors who enjoy a full day of sightseeing. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide, and life jackets during the cenote swim. It’s a dependable choice for travelers wanting an immersive experience beyond the typical beach day, although some might find the lunch timing a bit late.

Key Points

Explores Ek Balam, one of the largest Maya ruins in the region, featuring a climbable acropolis and stunning architecture.
Swims in Chichikan Cenote, a pristine natural water spot with provided life jackets for comfort and safety.
Includes a traditional Yucatán lunch with more than 20 options, plus a gastronomic demonstration.
Visits the town of Uayma, known for its colonial architecture and local charm.
Guided tour with fully certified bilingual guides offering detailed explanations.
Duration of about 11-12 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off from most central Cancun locations.

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Ek Balam: The Ancient Maya Site with a Unique Climb

The Ek Balam archaeological site is the highlight of this tour, featuring some of the largest structures in Mesoamerica. Visitors are encouraged to climb the acropolis, which offers a spectacular view over the surrounding Mayan jungle. The guide leads you through the ruins, revealing Maya history and architecture, and answering questions about this fascinating civilization.

Unlike more crowded sites, Ek Balam allows for walks on the ruins and photo opportunities in peaceful surroundings. The guided tour lasts about 2 hours, providing enough time to explore the stunning stone carvings and temples at your own pace.

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Swimming at Chichikan Cenote: Nature’s Refreshing Secret

After exploring Ek Balam, the tour moves to the Chichikan Cenote, a natural water formation offering a cold, clear swim. The cenote’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for cooling off and relaxing amid nature. Life jackets are provided, making the swim accessible for a variety of comfort levels.

The cenote visit lasts approximately 2 hours, giving plenty of time to float, relax, and take photos. The setting is peaceful and unspoiled, providing a refreshing break from the archaeological exploration.

Traditional Yucatán Lunch with Over 20 Options

A key part of this tour is the lunch, which showcases local flavors and culinary traditions. With more than 20 dishes to choose from, there is a wide variety of options, catering to different tastes. The meal includes a gastronomic demonstration, giving insight into regional cooking styles.

The lunch break usually lasts around 2 hours, which also features bottled water and the chance to relax after the cenote swim. Although drinks during lunch are not included, the diverse menu is appreciated for its authentic taste.

Exploring Uayma: The Colonial Town’s Architectural Charm

The tour concludes with a visit to the town of Uayma, a hidden gem known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. The picturesque streets and historic buildings provide a chance to experience local life and see charming town details often missed by typical travelers.

This part of the tour offers free time for walking, photography, or simply soaking in the vibe of this peaceful village. It’s a perfect spot to appreciate Mexico’s cultural heritage in a relaxed setting.

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Tour Logistics: Transfers, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour starts with hotel pickup in Cancun, with most centrally located hotels included. The bus ride to Ek Balam takes about 2.5 hours, followed by the guided archaeological tour. Afterward, a short 30-minute bus transfer leads to the cenote and lunch, with the final 2-hour bus ride back to Cancun.

The group size appears manageable, with a bilingual guide providing full explanations in both Spanish and English. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to the walking involved at the archaeological site and in town.

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Cost and Additional Expenses

The included items are hotel pickup and drop-off, the guided tour at Ek Balam, cenote swimming with life jackets, lunch and gastronomic demo, bottled water, and a bilingual guide.

Additional costs may include drinks during lunch, lockers, and admission fees—which are $800 MXN for foreign adults, $300 MXN for children. Mexican residents with ID pay $700 MXN for adults and $100 MXN for children.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This day trip combines cultural exploration and natural relaxation, making it a well-rounded experience for those interested in Maya history and Yucatán scenery. The guides’ knowledge and the peaceful environment at Ek Balam and the cenote enhance the overall experience.

While the timing of lunch may feel a little late for some, the balance of activities—from archaeology to swimming and town exploration—compensates with diversity and authenticity.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour appeals to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and culture seekers. It’s especially suitable for visitors who enjoy walking and climbing on ruins and refreshing swims in natural cenotes. Those seeking a full, immersive day outside the beaches will find this trip satisfying.

However, travelers with mobility challenges should consider alternatives, as some walking and climbing are involved. The pace is well-managed, but the long bus rides mean it’s best for those comfortable with full-day excursions.

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From Cancun: Ek Balam and Cenote Tour with Lunch & Transfer

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from most centrally located Cancun hotels.

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts about 11 to 12 hours, covering transportation, sightseeing, and free time.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, cash for extras, and passport or ID. Luggage or large bags, drones, and tripods are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children pay a reduced fee and must be comfortable with walking and swimming.

How difficult is climbing at Ek Balam?
Climbing the acropolis involves some effort, but life jackets and guidance make it manageable for most visitors.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $68 per person for travelers paying in USD. Additional fees apply for attraction admissions and lockers.

Are drinks included during lunch?
No, drinks during lunch are not included, but bottled water is provided throughout the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the activity proceeds regardless of weather.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is bilingual, with Spanish and English guides available.