From Valladolid: Day Trip to Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam & Cenote

Escaping the bustling streets of Valladolid, travelers embark on a captivating day trip to uncover the ancient wonders of the Yucatán. For just $57.23 per person, this 8-hour adventure promises to transport them back in time, from the iconic El Castillo pyramid of Chichén Itzá to the intricate carvings of Ek Balam. But the journey doesn’t end there – a refreshing swim in the sacred waters of Cenote Hubiku awaits, offering a chance to truly take in the region’s rich history and natural beauty. With private transportation, hotel pickup, and travel insurance included, this excursion promises an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery.

Good To Know

• A day trip from Valladolid that visits the UNESCO World Heritage site of Chichén Itzá, the ancient ruins of Ek Balam, and the sacred Cenote Hubiku.
• The tour is priced at $57.23 per person with potential savings of up to 15%, and includes private transportation, certified operator services, and travel insurance.
• Highlights of the tour include exploring the Mayan engineering and astronomy at Chichén Itzá, discovering the impressive ruins and architecture at Ek Balam, and swimming in the Cenote Hubiku.
• The tour lasts 8 hours and includes hotel pickup, with 2.5 hours at Chichén Itzá, 1.5 hours at Ek Balam, and 2 hours for swimming and lunch at Cenote Hubiku.
• Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes, bring a camera, and use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent, as drones and alcoholic beverages are prohibited at the sites.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The day trip from Valladolid to the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, the hidden gem of Ek Balam, and the sacred Cenote Hubiku offers travelers a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Yucatán peninsula.

Priced at just $57.23 per person, this 8-hour adventure promises to be a highlight of any visit, with the option to save up to 15%.

Guests can arrange for convenient hotel pickup and enjoy private transportation, certified operator services, and travel insurance – all before seeing the captivating history and natural beauty of these iconic Mayan sites.

Itinerary Details

Pickup from the hotel, Airbnb, or a designated meeting point in Valladolid happens 10 minutes before the scheduled departure. The journey begins, with the first stop being the iconic Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After a 40-minute drive, visitors explore this ancient Mayan city for 2.5 hours. Next, it’s off to Ek Balam, with its well-preserved acropolis, for a 1.5-hour visit after a 70-minute drive. The final destination is the sacred Cenote Hubiku, where visitors can swim and enjoy a buffet lunch for 2 hours, followed by the 20-minute drive back to Valladolid.

Destination	Drive Time	Visit Duration
Chichén Itzá	40 minutes	2.5 hours
Ek Balam	70 minutes	1.5 hours
Cenote Hubiku	20 minutes	2 hours

Highlights

Visitors embark on an unforgettable journey through Yucatan’s rich cultural tapestry, beginning with the awe-inspiring Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Exploring the well-preserved acropolis of Ek Balam, they uncover the historical significance of this ancient city. The highlight of the day is a refreshing dip in the sacred Cenote Hubiku, where the Mayans once drew their water.

The tour offers a glimpse into the region’s captivating past, with:

1. Chichén Itzá, a testament to Mayan engineering and astronomy
2. Ek Balam’s impressive ruins and architectural wonders
3. Cenote Hubiku, a sacred swimming hole steeped in Mayan history
4. Insights into the Yucatan’s rich cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This day trip includes a private, air-conditioned round-trip transfer from your hotel or meeting point in Valladolid, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

Bottled water and travel insurance are also provided. Visitors will be responsible for the entrance fees to Chichen Itza ($643 MXN general admission), Ek Balam ($556 MXN), and Cenote Hubiku ($350 MXN).

Hiring a tour guide at the archaeological sites is optional. Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent, and cash for any additional expenses.

Drones and alcoholic drinks aren’t permitted in the vehicle. This comprehensive tour offers a seamless and immersive experience exploring Yucatan’s cultural treasures.

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Preparation and Restrictions

Properly prepared, visitors can make the most of this immersive day trip. To ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience, it’s recommended to bring a few essentials:

• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for navigating the ancient ruins and cenote
• A camera to capture the stunning landscapes and architectural wonders
• Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the Yucatan sun and bugs
• Lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool in the tropical climate

Plus, drones and alcoholic beverages aren’t permitted on the tour, as they can disrupt the tranquility of the sacred sites.

With these simple preparations, explorers can fully enjoy the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this remarkable day trip.

Travel to Chichén Itzá

The journey to Chichén Itzá begins with a scenic 40-minute drive from Valladolid, transporting visitors back in time to one of the most impressive and well-preserved Mayan ruins in Mexico. As the ancient city comes into view, the awe-inspiring El Castillo pyramid, towering at 79 feet, dominates the landscape. Visitors can explore the expansive site, marveling at the intricate carvings, the ball court, and the sacred cenote, where the Mayans once performed rituals. The experience is truly captivating, immersing guests in the rich history and culture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Feature	Description
El Castillo	Iconic 79-foot pyramid
Ball Court	Site of ancient Mayan ritual games
Sacred Cenote	Revered Mayan water source
Carvings	Intricate stone artistry
Expansive Site	Vast archaeological complex

Exploring Ek Balam

Journeying from the grandeur of Chichén Itzá, the group eagerly anticipates the next stop on their Yucatecan odyssey – the ancient ruins of Ek Balam.

This once-thriving Maya city boasts a well-preserved acropolis, a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its inhabitants.

Visitors can explore:

1. The impressive Acropolis, a towering structure adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
2. The Tomb of the Ruler, a remarkable discovery that offers insights into the royal lineage of Ek Balam.
3. The Oval Palace, a unique architectural feature that showcases the advanced engineering skills of the Maya.
4. The ball court, where the ritual game of pok-ta-pok was played, adding to the cultural tapestry of this remarkable site.

Cenote Hubiku Swimming

After exploring the ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá and Ek Balam, the group eagerly anticipates their next adventure – a refreshing swim in the captivating Cenote Hubiku.

Descending the steps, they’re greeted by the cenote’s crystalline waters, a sacred oasis where the Mayans once gathered. Plunging into the cool, invigorating depths, the travelers savor the rejuvenating experience, surrounded by the cenote’s natural beauty.

As they float and swim, they learn about the cenote’s significance and the Mayan reverence for these vital water sources.

The buffet lunch that follows provides a satisfying end to this immersive cultural encounter, leaving the group energized and enlightened.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit the Sites Independently Without the Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore the sites independently. They’ll need to arrange their own transportation, purchase tickets, and navigate the areas. This allows for more flexibility but loses the convenience and insights a guided tour provides.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?

Yes, some discounts are available – seniors aged 60+ and students can get reduced admission fees at Chichen Itza and Ek Balam. The savings vary, so it’s best to inquire when booking your visit.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour group size varies, though it’s typically small, allowing for a personalized experience. Travelers can expect to join a cozy group, fostering an intimate and immersive journey through Yucatan’s ancient wonders and natural havens.

Are There Any Additional Costs Beyond the Listed Entrance Fees?

Beyond the listed entrance fees, there are no additional costs for this tour. Travelers simply need to bring cash for any optional tour guides or personal expenses they may wish to incur during the day’s adventures.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Duration of the Tour?

Travelers can’t fully customize the itinerary or duration, but the tour operator offers flexibility within the established schedule. They’ll work with you to make the most of your day exploring these iconic Mayan sites.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of the Yucatán, where ancient Mayan wonders and refreshing natural beauty converge. From the grandeur of Chichén Itzá to the hidden gems of Ek Balam and Cenote Hubiku, this day trip promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you awestruck and rejuvenated. Savor the flavors of a delectable buffet lunch as you reflect on the day’s enchanting discoveries.

You can check if your dates are available here: