From Riviera Maya: Ek Balam & Cenote Tour W/ Lunch & Pickup

Exploring the ancient Mayan site of Ek Balam and the captivating Cenote Chichikan is an unforgettable experience for visitors to the Riviera Maya. This comprehensive tour offers the perfect blend of culture and natural wonder, guiding participants through the impressive ruins and inviting them to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the cenote. With an expert guide, a delicious Yucatecan lunch, and seamless transportation, this highly-rated adventure promises to leave travelers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. What unique discoveries await those who embark on this captivating journey?

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences in Playa Del Carmen.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Ek Balam and swim in the picturesque Cenote Chichikan on this 12-hour tour from Riviera Maya.
• The tour is priced at $54.89 per person and includes pickup from centrally located hotels, guided tours, and a local lunch.
• Climb the impressive Acropolis at Ek Balam for panoramic jungle views and learn about the site’s well-preserved ball courts and palaces.
• Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Chichikan, surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning turquoise hues.
• The tour is highly rated at 4.5/5 and offers an opportunity to immerse in the Yucatecan culture through a gastronomic demonstration.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Mayan site of Ek Balam and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Chichikan.

Priced at $54.89 per person, it’s a great value, providing 12 hours of immersive experiences. Pickup is available from most centrally located Riviera Maya hotels, and the tour is offered in both English and Spanish.

Highlights include a guided tour of Ek Balam, swimming in the Chichikan Cenote, and enjoying a local lunch with over 20 dishes.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, but free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures flexibility.

With an overall rating of 4.5/5, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Itinerary & Locations

The tour begins with pickup locations in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, and Tulum.

From there, the group will travel by bus/coach for 3 hours to the ancient Mayan site of Ek Balam. Visitors will enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the impressive structures, including the opportunity to climb the acropolis for panoramic jungle views.

Next, the tour heads to the cenote Chichikan in Valladolid, where guests can spend 2 hours swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

After the cenote visit, the group will enjoy a local lunch with over 20 dishes and a gastronomic demonstration.

The final leg of the journey returns to the pickup locations, taking 3 hours.

Exploring Ek Balam

Visitors to Ek Balam can explore one of the largest Mesoamerican structures, marveling at the impressive architectural feats of the ancient Maya.

The highlight is the Acropolis, a towering temple-pyramid that offers panoramic jungle views from its summit. Guided tours provide insights into the city’s history and the intricate carvings adorning its monuments.

Explorers can trace the steps of the Maya rulers, climbing the steep staircases to uncover the secrets of this once-thriving urban center.

The site’s well-preserved ball court, palaces, and other structures offer a glimpse into the sophisticated civilization that once flourished in this region of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Swimming in Chichikan Cenote

After exploring the impressive ruins of Ek Balam, visitors can look forward to refreshing themselves in the crystal-clear waters of Chichikan Cenote.

This natural sinkhole, located just a short drive away, offers a serene and picturesque setting for swimming and relaxation. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the cenote’s turquoise hues and rocky formations create a stunning natural backdrop. Guests can take a refreshing dip, enjoying the cool, rejuvenating water.

The tour also includes a local lunch, providing an opportunity to savor authentic Yucatecan flavors. With free time to explore the colonial charm of nearby Valladolid, this excursion offers a well-rounded experience blending ancient history, natural beauty, and culture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gastronomic Demonstration

During the Ek Balam & Cenote Tour, guests can look forward to a gastronomic demonstration that showcases the rich culinary traditions of the Yucatan region.

The demonstration will feature:

1. A skilled local chef preparing a variety of authentic Yucatecan dishes.
2. An explanation of the unique spices, ingredients, and cooking techniques used in the regional cuisine.
3. Samples of the freshly prepared dishes for guests to taste and appreciate the flavors.
4. A Q&A session where the chef answers questions about the Yucatecan food culture and culinary heritage.

This interactive culinary experience allows travelers to enjoy the diverse flavors of the Yucatan, making the tour a truly memorable and enriching cultural encounter.

Transportation and Pickup

The tour provides complimentary pickup from most centrally located Riviera Maya hotels.

Pick-up locations include Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, and Tulum. Depending on your hotel’s location, you may need to meet at a designated meeting point.

The tour then travels by bus/coach, which takes approximately 3 hours to reach Ek Balam and 30 minutes to the Cenote.

After the tour, you’ll be dropped off at your original pick-up locations. The transportation is efficient, allowing you to focus on the cultural and natural highlights without the hassle of driving yourself.

Timely arrivals and departures are ensured, so you can make the most of your 12-hour adventure.

What to Bring

For this tour, visitors should bring a few essential items.

These include:

1. Swimwear – Visitors will have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Chichikan Cenote, so packing a comfortable swimsuit is a must.

2. Towel – After the refreshing dip in the cenote, a towel will be handy for drying off.

3. Cash – While the tour includes all major expenses, visitors may want to have some cash on hand for tips or any personal purchases.

4. Passport or ID – Visitors will need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a passport or government-issued ID, when checking in for the tour.

Tour Rating and Reviews

With the essentials covered, it’s worth examining the overall rating and reviews of this Ek Balam & Cenote Tour.

Based on 49 reviews, the tour has an impressive 4.5 out of 5 rating. Customers praise the knowledgeable guides, the opportunity to explore the ancient ruins of Ek Balam, and the refreshing swim in the Chichikan Cenote.

Many highlight the delicious local lunch as a highlight. A few note the long travel time, but most agree the experience is well worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

According to the tour details, outside food and drinks are not included in the tour. Guests are not permitted to bring their own food or beverages, as the tour provides a local lunch as part of the experience.

Are There Any Medical Requirements for the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. It’s important to disclose any medical conditions to the tour operator prior to booking to ensure the activity is appropriate and accommodations can be made if necessary.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Cenote?

According to the itinerary, visitors have 2 hours scheduled for swimming and lunch at the Cenote Chichikan. While the tour doesn’t offer an option to extend this stay, guests are free to spend additional time at their own discretion.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for this tour. However, it’s not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. The tour is appropriate for a range of ages, from children to seniors, as long as they can participate in the activities.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator does not permit animals to join the group for safety and comfort of all participants. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the tour.

Recap

This captivating tour from Riviera Maya offers a perfect blend of Mayan history and natural wonders. Visitors can explore the impressive Ek Balam ruins, climb the acropolis, and take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear Chichikan Cenote. With a delicious Yucatecan lunch, knowledgeable guides, and convenient hotel pickup, it’s no wonder this highly-rated tour has impressed so many travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: