Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote From Playa del Carmen

Discover the Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote from Playa del Carmen

This full-day tour from Playa del Carmen offers a compelling blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural insight at a reasonable price of $83 per person. Covering approximately 12 to 13 hours, this trip includes visits to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and the less crowded but equally impressive Ek Balam ruins. The tour also includes a refreshing swim in the Cenote Saamal and a lunch, making it a well-rounded day for those eager to explore the Mayan heritage and natural wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula.

The tour departs promptly at 8:00 am from Viva Mexico5 Av. Nte. 38, Playa del Carmen, with round-trip transportation included. It’s perfect for travelers with moderate physical fitness, offering a comfortable yet engaging experience, with a maximum group size of 18 people. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour combines convenience with flexibility.

Key Points

• Includes transportation, entry tickets, and lunch, simplifying planning.
• Visits two major Mayan archaeological sites: Chichen Itza and Ek Balam.
• Enjoys a swim in the Cenote Saamal, where admission is included.
• Guided by an expert guide who leads you through each site.
• The tour lasts about 12 to 13 hours, departing early in the morning.
• Optional add-on: life jacket rental at the cenote for $4.

Starting Point and Daily Schedule

The tour begins at 8:00 am at the designated meeting point in Playa del Carmen. From there, the group travels together to each stop, with round-trip transportation making the logistics hassle-free. The schedule is designed to maximize your time at each site, with clear time allocations allowing approximately 90 minutes at Chichen Itza, one hour at Cenote Saamal, and an hour at Ek Balam.

The end of the tour brings you back to the original meeting point, making it convenient for planning your day afterward.

Exploring Chichen Itza: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Chichen Itza is the first stop and the highlight of the day. As one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, it offers a chance to see iconic structures like the El Castillo pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Ball Court. The site is well-preserved and provides a vivid glimpse into Mayan civilization.

An expert guide leads visitors through the complex, sharing insights into the history and significance of each structure. The admission ticket to Chichen Itza is included in the tour price, and the site’s UNESCO status guarantees a fascinating experience. Expect about 90 minutes here, which is enough to appreciate the major landmarks and take photos.

Swimming in Cenote Saamal: A Natural Oasis

After exploring the ruins, the tour moves to Cenote Saamal, a natural limestone sinkhole unique to the Yucatan Peninsula. The crystalline waters are perfect for a refreshing swim, and the environment offers a peaceful jungle atmosphere.

Admission is included in the tour, and life jackets are available for rent at $4 if desired. The one-hour stop allows enough time to cool off, relax, and take in the natural beauty of this jungle oasis. It’s a highlight for many, especially for those who enjoy scenic natural pools.

Discovering Ek Balam: The Less Crowded Mayan Site

The third stop is Ek Balam, a less crowded but equally impressive archaeological site. The Acropolis at Ek Balam stands out with spectacular carvings and artwork from the Maya civilization. Visitors can climb the Acropolis, gaining panoramic views of the site and surrounding jungle.

The admission ticket is included, and the guided tour offers explanations of the exceptional carvings and the significance of the site. This stop provides a more intimate experience compared to the often-busy Chichen Itza, making it ideal for visitors seeking a deeper connection with Mayan history.

The Food and Beverage Experience

Lunch is included in the tour, with a box lunch consisting of a sandwich, fruit, juice, and a sweet treat. This practical meal helps keep energy levels up throughout the long day. For those who choose the Plus Option, bottled water is provided, enhancing comfort during the excursions.

Drinks are not included in the basic option, so travelers wishing to indulge in beverages should plan accordingly. The meal arrangement offers a simple but satisfying way to refuel after the morning of sightseeing.

Practical Details and Group Size

The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 18 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. The comfortable transport takes you directly between sites, saving you from organizing separate tickets or navigating public transport.

Confirmation of booking is immediate, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to enjoy the walking and climbing involved, particularly at Ek Balam.

Additional Costs and Optional Extras

While most essentials are included, there are some out-of-pocket expenses to keep in mind:

• Life jacket rental at Cenote Saamal costs $4 per person and is mandatory.
• The admission fee for Chichen Itza is $66 per person, payable separately.
• Drinks beyond bottled water are not included in the basic package.

Being aware of these extras helps manage expectations and avoid surprises.

The Experience Provider and Booking Flexibility

This tour is offered by Cancun Tours, an experienced provider known for organizing guided excursions in the region. The availability to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour ensures flexibility in case of weather issues or changing plans.

The meeting point is centrally located in Playa del Carmen, making it easy to reach and convenient for visitors staying nearby.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This full-day experience suits those interested in Mayan history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. It’s particularly good for travelers who want a comprehensive tour that covers major archaeological sites and includes a refreshing cenote swim, all with guidance from experts.

The tour’s physical requirements are moderate, making it accessible to most travelers with reasonable mobility, but those with mobility issues should consider the climbing involved at Ek Balam.

Final Thoughts on the Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour

This guided tour from Playa del Carmen offers a balanced combination of must-see ruins, natural swimming spots, and local cuisine. Its reasonable price of $83 makes it accessible, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, entry fees, and lunch.

While the Chichen Itza visit is the highlight, the less crowded Ek Balam provides a quieter, more intimate experience. The cenote swim adds a fun, natural break during the day’s culture.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a hassle-free day exploring the Yucatan’s treasures with a knowledgeable guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation, guide, bottled water (Plus Option), lunch, and admission to Chichen Itza and Ek Balam are included. Cenote Saamal’s admission fee is included, but life jackets cost $4.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 12 to 13 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at the meeting point in Playa del Carmen.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and Ek Balam.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended. Climbing at Ek Balam may be challenging for some.

Do I need to pay the entrance fee for Chichen Itza separately?
No, the $66 fee is paid separately and is not included in the initial tour price.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, and a towel for the cenote swim.

Are drinks included?
Drinks are not included in the basic package, but bottled water is provided with the Plus Option.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour groups are limited to 18 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Who is the tour provider?
It’s organized by Cancun Tours, known for guided excursions in the region.