LDS tour to Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Ruins with Cenote Hubiku

This LDS tour to Chichen Itza and Ekbalam Ruins with a visit to Cenote Hubiku offers a full-day exploration of Yucatan’s most captivating archaeological sites. Priced at $235 per person, the tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, making it ideal for those eager to combine cultural discovery with natural beauty. Starting from Playa del Carmen, the tour includes hotel pickup, a regional lunch, and a guided experience led by an LDS official guide. A key highlight is the chance to swim in Cenote Hubiku, one of the most impressive underground cenotes in Yucatan.

While the experience involves a full day of activity, it’s suitable for visitors with moderate physical fitness. It’s important to note that admission tickets for Chichen Itza and Ekbalam are not included and must be paid in cash on the day of the tour. This tour offers a well-rounded mix of history, culture, and natural refreshment — perfect for those interested in Mayan ruins with a spiritual or cultural focus.

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting 12-13 hours, ideal for a comprehensive exploration
• Price of $235 per person includes guided visits, lunch, bottled water, and cenote swim
• Visit Chichen Itza with a 2-hour guided tour inside the ruins
• Swim in Cenote Hubiku, a stunning underground cenote with stalactites
• Explore Ek Balam, a lesser-known Maya site with an Acropolis pyramid
• Chichen Itza and Ekbalam taxes are not included, payable in cash on-site

Departure from Playa del Carmen at 6:00am with Hotel Pickup

This tour begins early at 6:00am from Coco Bongo in Playa del Carmen, ensuring you beat the crowds at Chichen Itza. The air-conditioned vehicle transports the group comfortably between sites, with a maximum of 14 travelers for a personalized experience. The tour concludes back at the starting point, making it a convenient full-day outing.

Exploring the Chichen Itza Archaeological Site

The first stop is Zona Arqueologica de Chichen Itza, where the ruins open early for visitors. The 2-hour guided tour covers major buildings such as La Iglesia, Las Monjas, and the Observatory. This site is renowned for its towering structures and intricate carvings, offering insight into Maya civilization.

While admission tickets are not included, the guide provides detailed explanations of the old Chichen Itza layout and significance. Expect to see iconic features and learn about their roles in ancient Maya culture. This stop allows ample time to appreciate the scale and artistry of these monumental ruins.

Cooling Off in Cenote Hubiku

After exploring Chichen Itza, the tour makes a 1.5-hour visit to Cenote Hubiku, a spectacular underground cenote in Yucatan. The admission is included, so visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim beneath hundreds of stalactites. The cenote’s natural beauty provides a peaceful break from the archaeological sites, and the cool water offers a welcome relief in the warm Yucatan climate.

Participants can relax and take photos of the striking formations before continuing the day’s adventure. The cenote’s setting in a lush jungle landscape enhances the natural ambiance and makes it a memorable highlight.

Off-the-Beaten-Path at Ek Balam Ruins

The next stop is Ek Balam, a less crowded Mayan site known for its remarkable carvings and jungle surroundings. The site offers around 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore, with the opportunity to climb the Acropolis pyramid, the tallest structure at this site.

Unlike the more famous ruins, Ek Balam provides a more intimate experience, with fewer travelers and impressive archaeological details. However, admission tickets are not included and must be purchased separately. The climb to the top of the pyramid rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding forest.

The Regional Lunch Experience

The tour includes a freshly prepared regional lunch, giving insight into local Yucatec cuisine. The meal is served as part of the day’s itinerary, providing a satisfying break after the morning’s exploration. This meal adds value to the tour, especially for those interested in authentic regional flavors.

Practical Details: Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, the group moves smoothly from one site to another. The tour maintains a small-group setting with a maximum of 14 travelers, fostering a more personalized experience. The pick-up point at Coco Bongo is easily accessible for most accommodations in Playa del Carmen.

Cost and Additional Fees

The $235 price covers guides, lunch, bottled water, and cenote admission. However, the admission taxes for Chichen Itza and Ek Balam are not included, with a fee of MXN 1,500 (or MXN 1,450 from 2026) payable in cash at the sites. This is an important consideration to budget for alongside the tour cost.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour is designed for individuals with moderate physical fitness. Walking around the ruins and climbing the Acropolis pyramid at Ek Balam require mobility, so participants should be prepared for some physical activity. Comfortable footwear and sun protection are recommended, given the outdoor settings.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Details

Booking is flexible with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the activity. This gives peace of mind for changing plans. The tour must have a minimum of 4 participants to operate and is capped at 14 travelers to ensure a more engaging experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour suits visitors who want an in-depth cultural day with manageable group sizes, guided explanations, and natural refreshment. It’s ideal for those interested in Maya archaeology, spiritual connections to the Book of Mormon, or simply exploring top sites in Yucatan with comfort and convenience.

Final Thoughts on the Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour

The combination of world-famous ruins, a stunning cenote, and an off-the-beaten-path archaeological site makes this tour a compelling choice for many travelers. The early start and full-day itinerary are balanced with guided insight and refreshing breaks.

While the additional site taxes can be an unexpected expense, the tour’s inclusive elements like lunch and cenote swim add to its overall value. It’s well-suited for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and those seeking a meaningful Yucatan experience from Playa del Carmen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes guides, lunch, bottled water, and admission to Cenote Hubiku. Chichen Itza and Ek Balam taxes are extra.

What are the start and end times?
The tour begins at 6:00am from Coco Bongo and ends back at the same meeting point approximately 12 to 13 hours later.

How physically active is the tour?
Participants should have moderate fitness to walk around ruins and climb the Acropolis pyramid at Ek Balam.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, the tour is led by an LDS official guide who provides guided visits at each site.

Are the ruins accessible?
The tour involves walking and climbing, so accessibility may be limited for those with mobility challenges.

Do I need to pre-book?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended. The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants.

How do I pay the site taxes?
The admission taxes for Chichen Itza and Ek Balam are paid cash in Mexican Pesos on the day of the visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The physical activity involved makes it more appropriate for older children with moderate fitness levels.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and cash for site taxes. The tour supplies bottled water and lunch.

This LDS-focused tour of Chichen Itza, Ekbalam, and Cenote Hubiku provides a meaningful and active way to experience Yucatan’s archaeological treasures and natural wonders. With its small-group setting, guided narratives, and included amenities, it offers a balanced, well-organized day for curious travelers.