Set out on a captivating journey that blends cultural discovery and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Ek Balam, where you can climb the majestic main pyramid for breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle. Then, venture to a sacred cenote, a natural wonder teeming with vibrant aquatic life, and refresh your spirit by swimming or snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters. This unique experience offers a perfect balance of exploration, climbing, and rejuvenation, immersing you in the rich history and stunning natural beauty of this remarkable region.
Key Points
- Opportunity to visit and climb the last Mayan site where climbing is permitted, offering panoramic jungle views.
- Chance to swim or snorkel in a nearby cenote, immersing in the underwater beauty of the sacred site.
- Guided tour with a certified English and Spanish-speaking guide, providing insights into Mayan history and culture.
- Round-trip transportation and private service ensuring convenience and safety throughout the experience.
- Cancellation policy allows for full refund if plans change, providing flexibility in booking the tour.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour is priced at €275.27 for a group of up to 2 participants and lasts for 10 hours.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a certified guide, a driver, and private service.
Admission fees to Ek Balam archaeological site and a nearby cenote are covered.
However, lunch isn’t included.
The tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, and participants should bring appropriate attire and gear.
Availability should be checked before booking.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Merida.
Itinerary and Experience
On the day of the tour, participants get picked up from their hotel in Merida at 8:00 AM.
They’ll first visit Ek Balam, one of the last Mayan archaeological sites where climbing is allowed. The group explores the well-preserved structures and intricate carvings, then climbs the main pyramid for stunning jungle views.
Next, they head to a nearby cenote, where they can swim, relax, or snorkel to discover the underwater beauty.
Throughout the experience, a certified English and Spanish-speaking guide accompanies the group, providing insights into the Mayan history and culture.
The tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, exploration, and refreshment in the heart of the Yucatan peninsula.
Inclusions
The tour package includes round-trip transportation, ensuring participants’ convenience throughout the journey.
Along with a certified tour guide who’s fluent in English and Spanish, the experience also has a dedicated driver to facilitate smooth transitions between locations.
As a private service, the tour provides trained staff in first aid to prioritize the safety of all guests.
Entrance fees to Ek Balam archaeological site and the nearby cenote are covered, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders without additional costs.
However, lunch isn’t included, providing the flexibility for participants to explore local cuisine during the tour.
Participant Restrictions
This tour isn’t suitable for certain participants due to safety considerations.
The tour operator has specified that individuals with specific medical conditions or physical limitations are restricted from joining the experience. These include wheelchair users, people with epilepsy, those with high blood pressure, babies under 1 year old, and individuals over 95 years of age.
The tour may involve strenuous activities like climbing and swimming, which could pose risks for these groups. To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests, the tour provider has established these participant restrictions.
Potential participants are advised to carefully review the guidelines before booking to determine if this tour is appropriate for their needs and abilities.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyWhat to Bring
Travelers are encouraged to bring a comfortable pair of shoes, a hat to shield from the sun, and a change of clothes for after swimming in the cenote.
A towel, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and bug spray are also recommended. Cash is needed for the cenote entrance fee.
It’s important to wear closed-toe shoes for the archaeological site visit. Alcohol and drugs aren’t permitted on the tour.
Participants should check availability and ensure they meet the requirements before booking.
This guided excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore Ek Balam and cool off in a sacred cenote, making preparation and planning essential for an enjoyable experience.
- Private Tour Cenotes of Mucuyche & Santa Barbara in One Day
- Tour to Las Coloradas and Río Lagartos From Mérida
- Private Tour of Uxmal and Cenote Hacienda Mucuyche 2 Cenotes
- Chichen Itza, Private Cenote, Food Experience & the Magical Izamal
- Uxmal and Kabah Ruins Tour With Chocolate History
- Chichen Itza, the Pink Lagoon and Pink Flamingos
Important Information
Participants must adhere to certain guidelines to ensure a smooth and safe tour experience. No alcohol or drugs are allowed on the tour. Closed-toe shoes are required for the Ek Balam site, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery.
Plus, the following items are highly recommended:
- Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the sun and mosquitoes.
- A change of clothes and a towel for the cenote swim.
- Cash for any additional expenses, such as the entrance fees.
Participants should also check availability for the desired date and number of people before booking the tour.
Following these guidelines will help ensure a memorable and safe experience.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Canceling a tour reservation is easily done up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. This flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind, ensuring travelers can book their spot without worry.
If plans change unexpectedly, they can cancel and receive a complete reimbursement of the €275.27 group rate.
The "Reserve now & pay later" option also allows customers to secure their spot early without an upfront payment. This added convenience and flexibility make the tour an attractive option for those seeking to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Ek Balam and the captivating cenote at their own pace.
Booking and Availability
Booking the tour to explore the sacred cenote and Ek Balam archaeological site is a straightforward process.
Visitors have the option to reserve their spot and pay later, ensuring flexibility.
To check availability, travelers can:
- Visit the tour provider’s website and review the calendar for open slots.
- Contact the tour company directly via phone or email to inquire about specific dates.
- Coordinate with the team to select a suitable day and time that aligns with their schedule.
Once the booking is confirmed, guests can look forward to an immersive cultural experience and the chance to discover the underwater beauty of the sacred cenote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Group Size Larger Than 2?
Yes, the tour can accommodate larger groups. The price per group is €275.27, covering up to 2 participants. For larger groups, additional fees may apply, but the tour can be booked for more than 2 people.
Is This Tour Suitable for People With Physical Disabilities?
The tour is not suitable for people with physical disabilities. The tour involves climbing the Ek Balam pyramid and accessing a cenote, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Alternative accessible tours may be available.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour has specific participant restrictions that do not include bringing pets. Guests should leave their pets at home for this 10-hour excursion to the Ek Balam archaeological site and cenote.
What Languages Does the Tour Guide Speak?
The tour guide speaks both English and Spanish. They are certified guides who can provide explanations and information in either language to ensure all participants can fully understand and enjoy the Ek Balam archaeological site and cenote experience.
Can I Customize the Itinerary for This Tour?
The tour’s itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-set package. However, the tour guide speaks both English and Spanish, so you can discuss your interests and preferences with them during the experience.
Recap
Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Ek Balam and climb the majestic main pyramid for breathtaking views. Refresh your spirit by swimming or snorkeling in a sacred cenote, a natural wonder teeming with vibrant aquatic life. This unique experience combines cultural discovery and outdoor excitement, offering a perfect blend of exploration, climbing, and rejuvenation in a stunning natural setting.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Merida
- Chichen Itza Private Tour North Citadel and Cenote Tsukan
- Discover Magical Towns and Chichen Itza From Merida
- Private Tour: Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Magic Town by Yucatan Concierge
- Private Tour: Chichen Itza, Cenote & Izamal Magic Town by Yucatan Concierge
- Private Transfer From Airport to Hotel in Merida One Way
- Private Tour: Uxmal & Hacienda Sotuta De Peon by Yucatan Concierge
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Merida we have recnetly reviewed
- 3 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Merida
- 3 Best Shopping Tours In Merida
- 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Merida
- 10 Best Food Tours In Merida
- 14 Best Lunch Experiences In Merida
- Tour a Full Day in Uxmal, Kabah and Chocolate Museum
- Chichen Itza, Izamal, Cenote & Lunch
- Private Day Trip:Izamal, Aké & Cenote Yokdzonot From Merida by Yucatan Concierge
- Mayapan and Homun Town Private Tour
- Soul Revitalization: Cacao & Sound Ceremony 3 H. Private Retreat
- Mexico Private Transfer From Merida Airport to Central Merida
- Private Tour: Sotuta De Peon Hacieda Day Trip