Tulum: Private Tulum Ruins Tour With Ek Balam Ruins & Lunch

The Yucatan Peninsula is a captivating blend of ancient Mayan history and natural wonder. The Private Tulum Ruins Tour offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the well-preserved Tulum archaeological site and the towering Ek Balam temple. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll uncover the rich cultural heritage of this region, from the trading post of Tulum to the refreshing swim in a natural cenote. But the journey doesn’t end there – the tour also includes a traditional local lunch, promising to delight your senses and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the Mayan legacy.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Tulum.

Key Points

• This private tour combines visits to the Tulum and Ek Balam Mayan ruins, a cenote swim, and a cultural tasting experience, lasting 12 hours.
• The tour is priced at $459 per person and includes roundtrip private transportation and a knowledgeable live guide in English and Spanish.
• Highlights include exploring well-preserved Mayan archaeological sites, swimming in a refreshing cenote, and enjoying a traditional Mexican lunch.
• Flexible cancellation policies and the option to reserve now and pay later make this tour accessible for visitors.
• The tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or young children, as it involves extensive walking and climbing.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Private Tulum Ruins Tour offers a comprehensive 12-hour experience that combines visits to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum and Ek Balam, a refreshing swim in a cenote, and a cultural tasting at a local distillery, all with the convenience of private roundtrip transportation and a knowledgeable live guide.

Priced at $459 per person, the tour provides a unique opportunity to explore these significant archaeological sites, learn about Mayan history and culture, and take in the natural beauty of the region.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive and hassle-free Mayan adventure.

Pricing and Cancellation

Pricing for the Private Tulum Ruins Tour starts at $459.00 per person, offering a full-day excursion with ample opportunities to explore the ancient Mayan sites and cultural experiences.

The tour duration is 12 hours, providing plenty of time to take in the region’s rich history and natural wonders.

For added convenience, the tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing travelers to adjust their plans if needed.

Plus, the tour operator offers a reserve now and pay later option, enabling guests to secure their spot without any upfront costs.

With these flexible booking policies and competitive pricing, the Private Tulum Ruins Tour provides an accessible and rewarding way to discover the Yucatan Peninsula’s captivating Mayan heritage.

Highlights and Experiences

Visitors on the Private Tulum Ruins Tour can explore the well-preserved stucco sculptures and sacred cities of the Mayans, dating back over 1,200 years. They’ll have the chance to wander through the iconic Tulum Ruins, a coastal Mayan trading post with stunning ocean views.

The tour also includes a visit to the awe-inspiring Ek Balam, a nearly 100-foot tall temple that was once considered a sacred city ruled by a living god. In addition, guests can take a refreshing swim in a cenote, the natural sinkholes that the Mayans viewed as entrances to the underworld.

The tour also offers an opportunity to experience local culture through a visit to a distillery for an agave tasting and a traditional Mexican lunch.

Transportation and Guide

Private roundtrip transportation with a driver whisks guests to and from the Tulum and Ek Balam ruins sites.

A live tour guide is available to provide commentary in both Spanish and English, tailoring the group experience for private parties. The guide leads the way, sharing their deep knowledge of the Mayan history and culture as you explore the well-preserved ruins.

They’ll point out the intricate stucco sculptures and explain the significance of the sacred sites.

With a private experience, you’ll have the flexibility to move at your own pace and ask all the questions you want, ensuring you get the most out of your visit to these remarkable archaeological wonders.

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Mobility and Age Restrictions

This tour may not be suitable for individuals with certain mobility impairments or heart problems, as navigating the uneven terrain and high temperatures can be challenging.

Children under the age of 5 must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.

Visitors should be aware that the tour involves extensive walking and climbing, including steep steps and narrow paths.

Those with limited mobility or medical conditions that could be exacerbated by physical exertion should carefully consider their ability to participate fully.

The tour operator reserves the right to refuse participation if they deem a guest’s physical condition unsuitable for the demands of the experience.

Guests are advised to assess their own capabilities before booking this tour.

What to Bring and Not Allowed

Guests should bring biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, cash, and a towel to make the most of the tour’s activities.

However, alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on the experience. This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

The tour includes a cenote swim in crystal clear waters, so having the right gear and protection is crucial.

Plus, guests may want to bring a bit of cash for any local shopping or dining opportunities that arise during the day.

Tulum: Mayan Trading Post

Located along the stunning Caribbean coast of Mexico, Tulum was an important Mayan trading post, serving as a hub for the exchange of goods and ideas between inland communities and coastal settlements.

Boasting breathtaking seaside cliffs and well-preserved ruins, the former city offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization.

Once a thriving commercial center, Tulum’s strategic location allowed its inhabitants to control maritime trade routes and engage in the exchange of valuable commodities such as obsidian, jade, and exotic feathers.

The city’s impressive fortifications and temples, including the iconic El Castillo, stand as a testament to the Mayans’ architectural prowess and their deep connection to the natural world.

Ek Balam and Cenotes

Exploring the ancient Mayan city of Ek Balam, visitors marvel at its nearly 100-foot-tall temple, considered a sacred place ruled by a living god.

Cenotes, the natural sinkholes scattered throughout the region, were viewed by the Mayans as entrances to the underworld, offering unique geological formations and refreshing swimming experiences. Descending into these crystal-clear, otherworldly pools, travelers can discover stalactites, stalagmites, and an array of aquatic life.

The tour includes a visit to a local distillery, where participants can sample various agave-based spirits.

After exploring the ruins and cenotes, guests will enjoy a traditional Mayan lunch, seeing the rich cultural heritage of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, bringing one’s own food and drinks is not allowed on this tour. The tour provider specifies that alcohol and drugs are prohibited, and a local lunch experience is included as part of the tour activities.

Is Gratuity for the Guide and Driver Included in the Price?

Gratuity for the guide and driver is not included in the tour price. Participants are expected to tip the guide and driver at their discretion, based on the quality of the service provided during the tour.

Are Professional Photography Services Available During the Tour?

The tour does not offer professional photography services. However, guests are welcome to take photos throughout the experience using their own cameras or smartphones. Photographing the ruins and natural sites is encouraged to capture memorable moments.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour duration and itinerary can be customized. Guests can extend the tour length or modify the stops to suit their preferences. The tour operator is flexible and willing to accommodate special requests within reason.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges Not Mentioned in the Overview?

The tour overview does not mention any additional fees or charges. However, customers should inquire about potential extra costs for things like transportation upgrades, specialized activities, or customized itineraries beyond the standard package.

Recap

The Private Tulum Ruins Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich history and stunning natural beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula.

From the well-preserved Tulum ruins to the impressive Ek Balam temple and a refreshing swim in a cenote, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through ancient Mayan culture.

Complete with delicious local cuisine, it’s an experience that’s not to be missed.

You can check if your dates are available here: