Chichen Itza & EkBalam Ruins with Cenote Swimming from Cancun

The Chichen Itza & EkBalam Ruins with Cenote Swimming from Cancun offers a comprehensive day trip designed for those eager to see some of Mexico’s most iconic archaeological sites and enjoy a refreshing swim in a cenote. Priced at $83.00 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded experience with visiting Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of the World, plus exploring the lesser-known Ek Balam ruins. The trip lasts around 12 to 13 hours, making it ideal for first-time visitors or history enthusiasts seeking to maximize their sightseeing in a single day.

Starting early at 6:00 am from Smart Cancun, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation, guided commentary, two meals, and bottled water. While the tour’s length and pace may be intense, most find that the opportunity to witness these remarkable sites and enjoy a scenic cenote stop makes it worthwhile. A key consideration is the moderate physical fitness level required, especially for climbing temples and walking through expansive ruins.

Key Points

• Visits to Chichen Itza and Ek Balam with guided insights into Mayan civilization
• Includes entrance fees, two meals, bottled water, and air-conditioned transport
• Tour duration of approximately 12-13 hours from Cancun, departing at 6:00 am
• Cenote Saamal for swimming and relaxation after exploring Chichen Itza
• Limited group size of up to 18 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Optional life jacket rental available at USD 4.00, and additional Yucatan State Taxes at USD 66.00

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics

The tour begins promptly at Smart Cancun, Av. Tulum 4, Capilla Ecuménica, with pickup offered from this meeting point. Travelers should arrive ready for a full day, as the journey involves a significant amount of driving but is complemented by comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles. The tour concludes back at the starting location, ensuring easy access to nearby accommodations or further exploration.

Discovering Chichen Itza: The UNESCO World Heritage Icon

The first stop features Chichen Itza, a site renowned for its impressive architecture and historical significance. The guided tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, during which you learn the stories behind structures like the El Castillo pyramid and other notable landmarks. The guide shares fascinating facts and folklore about the Mayan civilization, enriching the experience.

Visitors can expect to walk through expansive ruins and appreciate the scale of this ancient city, which played a crucial role in Mayan culture. It’s worth noting that entrance fees are included, but additional Yucatan State Taxes of USD 66.00 per person apply if you wish to skip these, though they are not included in the tour price.

Cooling Off at Cenote Saamal

Following the exploration of Chichen Itza, the tour makes a refreshing stop at Cenote Saamal. This natural sinkhole provides a perfect spot to relax and cool off in its clear waters. The stop lasts about 1 hour, and admission to the cenote is included in the tour cost.

Guests have the opportunity to swim in the cenote’s refreshing waters, which offers a memorable break from the heat, particularly during the hotter months like June when temperatures can reach 100°F. While life jackets are available for rent at USD 4.00, bringing your own may enhance comfort for some.

Exploring Ek Balam: The Lesser-Known Maya Ruins

The afternoon is dedicated to Ek Balam, a less crowded but equally fascinating archaeological site. The tour allocates 1 hour 30 minutes for this stop, where visitors can climb ancient temples and explore frescoes depicting the Maya underworld.

The guide provides insights into the history of Ek Balam, highlighting its unique features and significance. Climbing the temples offers panoramic views of the surrounding jungle, but travelers should be comfortable with some physical activity. This stop provides a wonderful opportunity to appreciate less touristy ruins and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Guided Commentary and Personalities

The guide plays a vital role in enriching the tour experience. Reviews highlight Patricio, who is described as knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring travelers have enough time at each site and that all needs are met. This personalized approach helps make the long day more manageable and memorable despite the considerable driving involved.

The expert guidance ensures that even those unfamiliar with Mayan history come away with meaningful knowledge, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Meals and Refreshments Included

The tour includes two meals, which are designed to keep guests energized throughout the long day. Along with bottled water, these meals help sustain travelers after hours of walking and exploring. Drinks are not included if selecting a basic option, so bringing additional beverages might be beneficial.

The inclusion of meals and water adds value, particularly considering the length and physical effort involved.

Physical Requirements and Comfort Considerations

Guests should have moderate physical fitness to comfortably walk around the ruins and climb temples. The tour involves a fair amount of walking and climbing, especially at Ek Balam. The long hours and hot weather in June require preparation, such as wearing sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing.

While the tour is designed to be as comfortable as possible, travelers should expect a full day with minimal downtime. The large-group size of up to 18 travelers helps maintain a manageable pace and ensures personalized attention from the guide.

Cost Breakdown and Additional Fees

The $83.00 per person fee covers most essentials: transportation, guide, entrance fees, meals, and water. However, travelers should budget for optional expenses, such as life jackets at USD 4.00 and the Yucatan State Taxes of USD 66.00 for access to Chichen Itza and Ek Balam.

These additional costs are important to consider when planning the overall budget for the trip.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for history buffs and first-time visitors eager to tick off two major archaeological sites in one day. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy guided insights and a mix of cultural exploration and natural scenery with the cenote swim.

However, travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility limitations should consider the physical demands of walking and climbing, as well as the long hours involved.

The Sum Up: A Busy but Rewarding Day Trip

The Chichen Itza & EkBalam Ruins with Cenote Swimming tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Maya culture, combining iconic ruins with a scenic cenote stop. The guided commentary, meals, and transportation contribute to a smooth experience, making it a good choice for those wanting a hassle-free, educational day out.

While the tour’s length and physicality might be challenging for some, most appreciate the value of visiting both Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and enjoying the cooling cenote. It’s particularly well-suited for history lovers and first-timers eager to see some of Mexico’s most memorable sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transportation, guided visits, admission to Chichen Itza and Ek Balam, two meals, and bottled water.

What are the main stops on this tour?
You visit Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and Ek Balam archaeological site, with guided commentary at each location.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, starting at 6:00 am and returning to Cancun the same day.

Are there additional costs I should budget for?
Yes, Yucatan State Taxes of USD 66.00 per person apply if you wish to access the sites, and life jackets are available for rent at USD 4.00.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Given the need for walking and climbing, moderate physical fitness is recommended. The tour may be challenging for those with mobility limitations.

What should I bring for this tour?
Light clothing, sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes, and cash or card for optional expenses are advised.

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

Is food included?
Yes, two meals are included to keep you energized throughout the day.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of visiting Chichen Itza and Ek Balam, along with a cenote swim and guided insights, makes it a comprehensive cultural day trip from Cancun.