Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote from Cancun

Introduction:

Taking a tour to see the highlights of the Yucatán’s ancient Maya sites is a must-do for anyone visiting Cancun. The Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote offers a smooth, organized way to experience some of the region’s most iconic ruins along with a refreshing dip in a cenote—all in a single day.

What we really like about this tour? First, the convenient hotel pickup removes the hassle of navigation in a foreign city. Second, the included entry tickets and buffet lunch help keep the experience straightforward and budget-friendly. Lastly, visiting both the well-known Chichen Itza and the lesser-visited Ek Balam offers a nice balance of crowds and quieter exploration.

One thing to consider is the length of travel in the van, which some reviewers mention can feel cramped and lengthy. If you’re sensitive to long bus rides, this might be a little less comfortable.

This tour suits first-time visitors eager to see major Mayan sites, those pressed for time, or families wanting a well-organized day of cultural sights and nature.

Good To Know

• All-inclusive price with entry tickets, lunch, and guided commentary.
• Comfortable round-trip transportation from Cancun hotels.
• Visit two major Maya sites—Chichen Itza and Ek Balam—for diverse experiences.
• Swim in a cenote—a natural highlight unique to the Yucatán Peninsula.
• Time is somewhat structured, so if you love wandering at your own pace, you might find it a bit rushed.
• Good for first-timers and history enthusiasts looking for a hassle-free day trip.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Travel Time

The tour begins early, with a pickup from your Cancun hotel at 7:00 am. This is ideal for avoiding the midday crowds and making the most of your day. You’ll spend roughly 1.5 hours traveling in an air-conditioned minivan, with a brief 10-minute stop along the way to stretch your legs.

This part of the journey is where some guests have raised minor concerns—one review noted that the van felt quite small and that the trip back stretched later than expected (around 9:20 pm instead of the scheduled 7 pm). If you’re prone to car fatigue or dislike long rides, keep in mind this aspect might be a little tiring.

First Stop: Chichen Itza

Arriving at Chichen Itza, you’ll get approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The towering El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán) is the star here, symbolizing Maya astronomy and architecture. The tour includes admission tickets, so no need to queue or worry about extra costs.

Our source reviewer, Marianne, enjoyed being there early to beat the crowds, though she also wished for more time to wander freely. As with most popular sites, the group moves together, so you won’t have hours to explore at your own pace. Still, this time allows for some good photos and a quick overview of key structures.

Second Stop: Cenote Saamal

Next, you’ll visit the Cenote Saamal, a natural limestone sinkhole filled with crystalline waters. It’s a refreshing break from the heat and a chance to experience the Yucatán’s signature geological feature. The tour offers about 1 hour here, giving enough time for a swim and some photos.

One reviewer appreciated the crystal-clear waters and the natural jungle setting—perfect for cooling down and relaxing after the ruins. You’ll be provided with life jackets (costs $4) if needed, as it’s mandatory to wear one in the cenote.

Final Stop: Ek Balam Ruins

The last stop takes you to Ek Balam, a less crowded but equally impressive Maya site. Explore the remarkable carvings and art, and climb the Acropolis for panoramic views. The 1-hour visit offers a deeper dive into Maya architecture and more authentic, less commercialized surroundings.

A review notes that Ek Balam is spectacular and worth the visit, even if it’s less famous than Chichen Itza. The guide’s commentary, like Mynor’s, adds a lot of value—they bring history to life and help you understand the significance of what you see.

Lunch and Additional Options

The tour includes a buffet lunch that’s generally well-received. For those wanting extra, there’s an option to upgrade to include drinks (up to two at the restaurant and some on board). Some reviewers appreciated the variety of food and fruit, while others mentioned the lunch is a basic but decent meal—enough to keep you energized for the afternoon.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up with a return to Cancun, arriving around 9:20 pm. While the long day is packed, many travelers appreciated the organized structure and the ability to visit multiple sites without having to plan individually. However, the extended van ride and the feeling of being rushed were common points for some guests.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price ($83 per person):

• Entry fees for Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and the cenote
• Buffet lunch
• Guided tour with a professional guide
• Drinks on board (if you opt for the Plus package)
• Two drinks at the restaurant (Plus package)

Extras to budget for:

• Life jackets ($4) at the cenote
• State taxes for Chichen Itza ($66 per person)

Note: The Plus option, which includes drinks and a box lunch with sandwich, fruit, juice, and sweets, can enhance the experience but adds to the cost.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable walking shoes; the sites involve some climbing and uneven surfaces.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially for the outdoor parts of the trip.
• Prepare for a long day—some guests mention the ride can be tiring, so pack snacks or extra water if needed.
• Be aware of the timing—the tour is structured, so if you prefer a more leisurely visit, this might feel rushed.
• Book in advance; this tour is popular and generally booked 10 days ahead.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-timers eager to see the highlights of the Maya world without the hassle of planning each site individually. It’s also suited for families or groups looking for a well-organized, all-inclusive day.

If you’re particularly interested in learning detailed history or spending more time exploring, you might find the limited time at each site a bit restrictive. But if your goal is to tick off major landmarks and have a fun, hassle-free experience, this trip fits the bill.

The Sum Up

The Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote from Cancun offers a solid mix of history, nature, and convenience. While the journey can be long and the schedule tight, you’ll come away with a good understanding of Maya sites and some excellent photo opportunities. The inclusive nature of the tour, from entry tickets to a buffet lunch, makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive day out without surprises.

It’s especially valuable for those who prefer guided experiences, are on a tight schedule, or want to avoid the challenge of navigating Yucatán’s roads alone. Keep in mind, the long van ride can be tiring, but the sights and cultural insights make it worthwhile for most.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Cancun hotels, making it easy to start the day without logistical concerns.

How long is the total tour? The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 7 am and returning around 9:20 pm, depending on traffic and group pace.

Are entry fees included? Yes, the admission tickets for Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and the cenote are included in the price.

Can I upgrade the experience? Yes, you can opt for the Plus package, which includes additional drinks and a box lunch, enhancing comfort and refreshment options.

Is this suitable for children? Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. Moderate physical fitness is recommended due to walking and climbing.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hat, water, and possibly a towel for the cenote. The tour provides life jackets for swimming.

What if I want more time at the sites? Since the schedule is structured, you might find the time limited—if longer exploration is your priority, consider a different, more flexible tour.