Cancun: Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, Cenote & Lunch

A Practical and Authentic Day Trip into Mayan Mexico

Choosing a tour that combines the majesty of ancient ruins with a refreshing cenote swim can be a great way to spend a day in the Yucatan Peninsula. This particular excursion to Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Cenote Chichi Kan has been enjoyed by many travelers, earning a solid 4.1-star rating from 36 reviews. Whether you’re into archaeology, stunning landscapes, or simply looking to escape the beach for a day, this tour offers a little bit of everything.

What we especially appreciate about this trip is its focus on early access to Ek Balam, the chance to climb pyramids and enjoy fewer crowds. The inclusion of a Mexican buffet lunch and a swim in a cenote adds a nice balance of culture and relaxation. One possible downside? It’s a long day, with around 12 hours on the road, so comfort and patience are key. This experience is best suited for those eager to explore off-the-beaten-path ruins, history buffs, and travelers who don’t mind an early start and some time on the bus.

Good To Know

• Visit Two Major Mayan Sites: Ek Balam and Chichen Itza, with guided tours at both.
• Enjoy a Cenote Swim: Refresh in Cenote Chichi Kan after exploring ruins.
• Learn from Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviews highlight guides who are both funny and full of information.
• Includes a Tasty Lunch: Savor a traditional Mexican buffet.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Total duration is around 12 hours, suitable for full-day explorers.
• Price Point: At $89 per person, it offers good value considering the transportation, entrance fees, and guided experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Long Journey

The adventure begins early—meet your guide at Plaza Las Perlas at 6:00 am, with optional pickup points at the Crown Paradise Hotel, Presidente InterContinental, or Crazy Hot Coyote. Expect to spend about 2 hours on the bus heading toward Ek Balam, which sets the tone for the day: it’s a full-day commitment, but one packed with anticipation for what’s ahead.

Exploring Ek Balam: The Hidden Gem

We love the way Ek Balam is positioned as an early morning highlight, when fewer travelers are around. As one reviewer pointed out, arriving early means “barely anyone” is on site, allowing for unhurried exploration and the chance to climb pyramids much like the Mayans did. The ruins are well-preserved, and the pyramids offer sweeping views over the jungle.

Guided by a knowledgeable guide—like Omar or Frank—visitors learn about Mayan mythology, architecture, and culture. Multiple reviews praise guides for their humor and depth of knowledge, making it easier to connect with the site’s history. After the guided tour, there’s free time to explore at your own pace, snap photos, and soak in the serenity of this less commercial site.

Chichen Itza: The Iconic Wonder

Next stop is the world-famous Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the 7 wonders of the world. Here, the tour includes a guided walk through the site’s most iconic structures, such as the Kukulcán Pyramid, the Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors. The guide’s insights help you see beyond the impressive stones to understand their purpose, symbolism, and the Mayan worldview.

You’ll have about two hours here, which many say is enough time to absorb the grandeur without feeling rushed. During this period, you can take photos, listen to stories, and imagine what life was like when the city thrived centuries ago. A few reviews mention that the science behind the structures is particularly impressive—like the way the pyramid’s design aligns with astronomical events.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Cenote Chichi Kan: A Refreshing Break

After a morning of exploring ancient ruins, the tour takes you to Cenote Chichi Kan, just outside Valladolid. This is a highlight for many, providing a chance to cool off with a swim in crystal-clear waters, often right next to a waterfall. According to reviews, the cenote is “beautiful,” and swimming here offers a welcome respite from the heat and walking.

Admission to the cenote is included, along with the option to rent lockers and life vests (these are mandatory), but be prepared for an additional cost if you want to use them. Some travelers note that having cash for souvenirs or small extras at the cenote or nearby shops enhances the experience.

Lunch and Free Time in Valladolid

Post-swim, you’ll enjoy a Mexican buffet lunch—a simple but satisfying meal to re-energize before the final leg of the trip. The reviews describe the lunch as “just enough” to fill you up and keep you going. Afterwards, there’s a relaxed 3-hour window to explore the charming town of Valladolid, browse local shops, or continue relaxing at the cenote.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

The bus ride back takes approximately 2 hours, giving you time to rest or reflect on the day’s sights. Drop-offs are available at several locations, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya, making this tour flexible for different travel plans.

The Value of This Tour

At $89 per person, including transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and lunch, this trip offers a lot of value. The early access at Ek Balam stands out as a significant perk, especially for those who dislike large crowds and want to climb pyramids more freely. The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to make history engaging.

Travelers often mention that the tour hits the sweet spot: it covers major highlights without feeling overly rushed. The small group feel—some reviews mention groups of just six—helps foster a more personal and relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the inclusion of a cenote swim adds a fun and refreshing element to the day.

Considerations

The biggest challenge may be the long hours on the bus, which might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer relaxed sightseeing or have mobility issues. Also, the archaeological site tax of approximately $66 USD is not included in the price and must be paid on the day, in cash or credit card. This is a common fee for most sites but worth factoring into your budget.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history buffs and culture lovers eager to see significant Mayan sites with knowledgeable guides. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to visit Ek Balam, which tends to be less crowded, and combine it with the world-famous Chichen Itza. The cenote swim offers a fun break, especially for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and cooling off after sightseeing.

If you’re comfortable with early mornings, long bus rides, and a full day away from the beach, this tour can provide a rich and engaging experience at a reasonable price. It’s also well-suited for small groups seeking a more personalized touch and those looking to maximize their cultural exposure in a single day.

The Sum Up

This tour strikes a good balance between iconic sights, local culture, and fun moments like swimming in a cenote. The inclusion of Ek Balam early in the day offers a less crowded alternative to Chichen Itza, while the guide’s expertise helps make the history come alive. The lunch and cenote stop add value, making it a full, satisfying day out.

While it’s a long day, many travelers find the experience worth the effort, especially given the opportunity to explore two Mayan sites and enjoy some downtime in Valladolid and the cenote. The affordability, guided insights, and small group feel make it an attractive option for those looking to explore Mexico’s ancient past without breaking the bank.

This tour is best for those passionate about archaeology, eager to see lesser-known ruins, and comfortable with a packed schedule. It offers a genuine taste of Mayan culture, combined with the comfort of a guided, organized experience—making it a memorable addition to your Cancun trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is included if you choose that option, with specific meeting points in Cancun.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and some cash for extras or souvenirs.

How long is the total duration of the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 12 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Do we get to climb the pyramids?
Yes, at Ek Balam you can climb the pyramids, which many reviews say is a highlight, especially with fewer crowds early in the day.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you should bring your own or purchase at the sites.

Is there a site entrance fee I need to pay?
Yes, the archaeological site tax of approximately $66 USD is paid on the day of the tour, in cash or credit card.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for those able to walk and climb pyramids; it’s not recommended for wheelchair users.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations for most travelers.

This tour offers a well-rounded day packed with history, culture, and fun. It’s a fantastic way to experience the ancient wonders of the Yucatan without too much hassle or expense.

You can check if your dates are available here: