Explore the captivating wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula on this small-group tour. Witness the grandeur of Chichen Itza‘s iconic Kukulkan pyramid, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before cooling off with a refreshing swim in the stunning Cenote Hubiku. Discover the intricate carvings and structures of the Ek Balam ruins, all while indulging in a delicious buffet lunch. With convenient hotel pickup, entrance fees, and a professional guide, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience. But there’s much more to uncover about this fascinating journey through the region’s archaeological marvels and natural beauty.
Key Points
- This small-group tour combines visits to the UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza, the Ek Balam ruins, and a refreshing swim in the Cenote Hubiku.
- The tour includes breakfast, a buffet lunch, and skip-the-line access to Chichen Itza, providing a convenient and immersive sightseeing experience.
- Professional guides lead the tour, handling all logistics and providing insight into the history and significance of the sites.
- The tour is designed to minimize wait times and maximize sightseeing, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
- Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible, with infants needing to sit on laps.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Key Highlights
- Inclusions
- Exclusions
- Additional Details
- Breakfast and Lunch
- Transportation and Pickup
- Traveler Requirements
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Visit Only One Archaeological Site?
- What Is the Tour Schedule and Duration?
- Are There Any Language Options for the Tour?
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
- Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
- Recap
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Tour Overview
This comprehensive tour combines two renowned archaeological sites: Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the lesser-known Ek Balam.
Travelers will enjoy a breakfast and buffet lunch, as well as a refreshing swim in the Cenote Hubiku. The tour includes professional guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees to both Ek Balam and the Cenote Hubiku.
While the Chichen Itza entrance fee isn’t included, the tour allows for skip-the-line access, ensuring a seamless experience. This small-group tour is perfect for those seeking an immersive exploration of these iconic Mayan ruins and natural wonders, all while enjoying the convenience of an all-inclusive package.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Playa del Carmen.
Key Highlights
Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chichen Itza, visitors marvel at the iconic Kukulkan pyramid, a testament to the architectural prowess of the Mayan civilization.
Complementing this iconic landmark, the tour also whisks guests away to the lesser-known ruins of Ek Balam, where they can uncover the mysteries of this ancient city.
The key highlights of this comprehensive tour include:
- Witnessing the grandeur of the Kukulkan pyramid at Chichen Itza
- Swimming in the stunning Cenote Hubiku, a natural sinkhole teeming with crystal-clear waters
- Discovering the intricate carvings and structures of the Ek Balam ruins
- Savoring a delicious buffet lunch at the Cenote Hubiku site
- Experiencing the convenience of hotel pickup, entrance fees, and a professional guide throughout the day.
Inclusions
The tour package includes an array of convenient amenities, such as beverages, a full breakfast, and a sumptuous buffet lunch.
A professional guide accompanies participants throughout the day, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned van, as well as admission fees to both the Hubiku Cenote and the Ek Balam archaeological site.
No lines or waits at the Chichen Itza ticket office are another advantage.
While tips are optional, the comprehensive nature of the tour provides excellent value for the money. Travelers can relax and enjoy the day’s activities without worrying about additional expenses or logistics.
Exclusions
While the tour package includes a range of convenient amenities, there are a few exclusions travelers should be aware of. The Chichen Itza entrance fee, which costs $40 USD per adult and $5 USD per child, isn’t covered in the tour price. Plus, the tour doesn’t include optional tips for the professional guide.
The key exclusions are:
- Chichen Itza entrance fee ($40 USD per adult, $5 USD per child)
- Optional tips
- Anything not explicitly listed in the ‘Inclusions’ section
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
Travelers should budget accordingly and be prepared to pay these additional costs on the day of the tour.
Additional Details
Confirmation is required for last-minute bookings placed after 6 PM the prior day. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness to participate.
The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers. This small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience. The schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing and minimize wait times, with no lines at the Chichen Itza ticket office.
| Maximum Group Size | Pickup and Drop-off | Accessibility | Fitness Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 travelers | Hotel pickup/drop-off in air-conditioned van | Not wheelchair accessible, infants must sit on laps | Moderate physical fitness required |
Breakfast and Lunch
This comprehensive tour includes a delightful breakfast and a sumptuous buffet lunch as part of the experience. The breakfast is served before the adventure begins, ensuring travelers are fueled for the day’s activities.
Later, a buffet lunch is provided at the scenic Cenote Hubiku, where visitors can savor local flavors after exploring the ancient ruins.
The highlights of the meal offerings include:
- Freshly brewed coffee, juices, and pastries for breakfast
- A variety of regional dishes, including roasted meats, rice, and vegetables
- Vegetarian and gluten-free options to accommodate dietary needs
- Refreshing drinks and desserts to round out the lunch
- Ample seating and shaded areas to enjoy the meal in comfort
Transportation and Pickup
The comprehensive tour package includes convenient round-trip transportation, with hotel pickup and drop-off provided in an air-conditioned van.
Travelers are able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey to the archaeological sites without the hassle of self-driving.
The professional guide handles all the logistics, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
No need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or finding parking – the tour takes care of it all.
This added convenience allows guests to fully enjoy the cultural exploration of Chichen Itza, Cenote Hubiku, and Ek Balam without any logistical concerns.
The transportation service is a valuable component of this comprehensive tour experience.
Traveler Requirements
Travelers on this comprehensive tour should have a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience. The tour involves exploration of two archaeological sites and a swim in a cenote, which requires a certain level of mobility and endurance.
While the transportation is provided in an air-conditioned van, there will be periods of walking and climbing at the sites.
Key considerations for travelers:
- Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps
- Expect to do a moderate amount of walking and climbing at the ruins
- Possess good physical fitness to navigate uneven terrain and steps
- Be prepared for hot and humid weather conditions
- Bring appropriate footwear, sun protection, and hydration
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Visit Only One Archaeological Site?
Yes, you can visit only one archaeological site. The tour operator typically offers the option to visit either Chichen Itza or Ek Balam individually, allowing you to customize your experience based on your interests and preferences.
What Is the Tour Schedule and Duration?
The tour typically runs from approximately 8 AM to 5 PM, including breakfast, a visit to the Chichen Itza ruins, a swim in the Cenote Hubiku, lunch, and an exploration of the Ek Balam archaeological site.
Are There Any Language Options for the Tour?
The tour provides guided commentary in English and Spanish. Multilingual guides give detailed explanations of the archaeological sites and cultural significance. Guests can choose their preferred language for the duration of the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
The tour includes breakfast and lunch, so bringing your own food and drinks is generally not permitted. However, you’re welcome to bring any necessary medications or snacks to accommodate dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
There is no minimum group size requirement for this tour. The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers per group, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.
Chichen Itza, Cenote Hubiku, and Ek Balam – Small Group
“The Guide was highly educated about the Mayan civilization and added to my current knowledge. He had interesting takes on alignments of architectur…”
Recap
This small-group tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Yucatan Peninsula’s iconic archaeological sites and natural wonders.
Visitors will witness the grandeur of Chichen Itza, swim in the stunning Cenote Hubiku, and discover the intricate ruins of Ek Balam, all while enjoying a delicious lunch and the convenience of hotel pickup, entrance fees, and a professional guide.
