Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Ik Kil Cenote Day Trip

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Explore the captivating Mayan legacy of Mexico with the Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Ik Kil Cenote Day Trip. This immersive tour takes travelers on a journey through three remarkable sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. From the imposing grandeur of the Ek Balam ruins to the mesmerizing beauty of the Ik Kil Cenote, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression. However, the true highlight lies in the renowned UNESCO World Heritage site of Chichen Itza, where the iconic Kukulkan pyramid stands as a testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of the Mayan civilization. Prepare to be captivated by the mysteries and wonders that await.

Key Points

Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Ik Kil Cenote Day Trip - Key Points

  • This 12-hour day trip covers visits to Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Ik Kil Cenote, priced at €1,185.20 for a group of up to 1 person.
  • The tour includes entrance fees, bottled water, lunch, and private transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, with a professional historian guide.
  • Key highlights include exploring the Akropolis and Jaguar’s Altar at Ek Balam, swimming in the crystal clear Ik Kil cenote, and visiting the iconic Kukulkan pyramid at Chichen Itza.
  • The tour is designed for comfort and personalization, with wheelchair accessibility and accommodation for special needs upon prior notification.
  • Participants are recommended to bring towels, sunscreen, cash for souvenirs or drinks, and a camera, and the tour is available in multiple languages.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Ik Kil Cenote Day Trip - Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip to Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Ik Kil Cenote is priced at €1,185.20 per group (up to 1 person) and lasts 12 hours.

The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

Visitors will explore the 1,000-year-old city of Ek Balam, swim in the crystal clear Ik Kil cenote, and marvel at the iconic Kukulkan pyramid at Chichen Itza, one of the new 7 wonders of the world.

The tour also includes entrance fees, bottled water, lunch, a professional historian guide, and private transportation in an air-conditioned minivan.

Itinerary Highlights

Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Ik Kil Cenote Day Trip - Itinerary Highlights

Visitors can explore the 1,000-year-old city of Ek Balam, known as the city of the black jaguar, and discover its significant sites like the Akropolis and the Jaguar’s Altar.

They’ll then have the opportunity to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Ik Kil cenote, an underground natural pool.

The tour also includes a visit to the renowned Chichen Itza site, featuring the iconic Kukulkan pyramid, one of the new 7 wonders of the world.

Throughout the day, travelers will learn about the rich Mayan history, mysteries, and legends from a knowledgeable, professional historian guide.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour package includes entrance fees, bottled water, and lunch, ensuring a convenient and all-inclusive experience for participants.

A professional historian guide is provided to enhance the educational aspect of the tour. Plus, the tour offers private transportation with hotel pick-up and drop-off in an air-conditioned minivan, allowing for a comfortable and personalized journey.

The tour also provides the following amenities:

  1. Drinks and tips are available for purchase, allowing participants to customize their experience.

  2. Towels are provided, making it easy for guests to enjoy the refreshing waters of the Ik Kil cenote.

  3. The tour is designed to accommodate guests with special needs, as it’s wheelchair accessible with prior notification.

Group and Accessibility Information

A private group experience, the tour requires a minimum of 2 people per booking. Since a minimum of 2 people per booking is required, guests can enjoy the tour with family or friends.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is wheelchair accessible with prior notification of any assistance needed. The tour is also accessible for guests who use wheelchairs, but they should notify the tour operators in advance so they can provide any necessary assistance.

While the tour involves moderate walking, guests are recommended to wear comfortable shoes.

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Preparation and Recommendations

In an article titled ‘Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Ik Kil Cenote Day Trip’, guests should bring a towel, sunscreen, cash for souvenirs or drinks, and a camera to fully enjoy the day trip.

Checking availability for starting times is recommended, as the tour offers pickup from accommodations in Cancun, Riviera Maya, or Tulum, with a meeting point at the Starbucks in Tulum for some Tulum Hotel Zone hotels.

On top of that, the live tour guide is available in multiple languages, including German, French, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, English, and Spanish.

The tour involves:

  1. Exploring the 1,000-year-old city of Ek Balam, known as the city of the black jaguar.

  2. Swimming in the crystal clear underground cenote of Ik Kil.

  3. Visiting the Kukulkan pyramid, one of the new 7 wonders of the world, at Chichen Itza.

Visiting Ek Balam

According to the overview, visitors on this day trip first explore Ek Balam, the thousand-year-old city known as the ‘city of the black jaguar’. Guests have the opportunity to see significant archaeological sites within Ek Balam, including the Akropolis and the Jaguar’s Altar, which offer insights into the Mayan history and mysteries. The tour guide provides fascinating information about these ancient ruins and the Mayan civilization that once thrived here.

Site Significance Highlights
Akropolis Center of political and religious power Impressive architecture, temples, and palaces
Jaguar’s Altar Ritual and ceremonial site Intricate carvings and sculptures
El Palacio Residential area for the elite Glimpse into Mayan daily life
Nohoch Mul Largest pyramid in Ek Balam Panoramic views of the site
Sacbe Raised stone walkways Connected different parts of the ancient city

Exploring Ik Kil Cenote

After exploring the historic ruins of Ek Balam, the day trip takes visitors to the stunning Ik Kil Cenote.

Situated near Chichen Itza, this crystal clear, 85-foot-deep natural sinkhole is a popular swimming spot that offers a refreshing reprieve from the Yucatan heat.

Visitors can:

  1. Take a daring jump from the stone platforms into the refreshing waters below.

  2. Swim alongside the hanging vines and stalactites that adorn the cenote walls.

  3. Admire the lush foliage and sunbeams that create a magical, otherworldly atmosphere.

With its captivating natural beauty, Ik Kil Cenote is a truly unforgettable highlight of this comprehensive day tour.

Touring Chichen Itza

The crown jewel of the day trip is a guided tour of the majestic Chichen Itza, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visitors marvel at the iconic Kukulkan pyramid, a stunning example of Mayan architectural prowess, as they learn about the ancient city’s rich history and cultural significance.

The tour delves into the intricate carvings, astronomical alignments, and mysterious rituals that permeated this once-thriving Mayan metropolis.

Guests are captivated by the sheer scale and grandeur of the site, which includes the Temple of Warriors, the Great Ball Court, and the sacred Cenote.

With the knowledgeable guide’s insights, the tour offers a profound appreciation for the Mayan civilization’s enduring legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for Just Myself?

Yes, you can book this private tour for just yourself. The tour has a minimum of 2 people per booking, but you can reserve it for a single traveler at the full group price of €1,185.20.

What Languages Does the Tour Guide Speak?

The tour guide speaks multiple languages, including German, French, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, English, and Spanish. This allows them to provide a comprehensive and accommodating experience for guests from various linguistic backgrounds.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum age requirement, but children must be accompanied by an adult. This private group experience is suitable for all ages, though some moderate walking is involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, complimentary bottled water and a provided lunch are already included in the tour package. Checking with the tour operator about any specific policies is recommended.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Site During the Tour?

The tour typically spends around 2-3 hours at each site, allowing ample time for visitors to explore the key attractions, learn about their historical significance, and enjoy activities like swimming in the Ik Kil Cenote.

Recap

This Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Ik Kil Cenote day trip offers an immersive cultural experience, blending ancient Mayan ruins with the natural beauty of cenote swimming.

Travelers will be captivated by the iconic Kukulkan pyramid, explore the well-preserved Ek Balam site, and refresh in the stunning Ik Kil Cenote, creating a truly memorable exploration of Mexico’s rich Mayan heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: