Full Day Tour to Ek Balam Maya Ruins and Colonial Valladolid Town

A full day exploring Maya ruins and colonial Valladolid from Playa del Carmen

This full-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of ancient history, colonial charm, and natural beauty, all within approximately 8 hours. Starting from Playa del Carmen, you’ll visit Ek Balam, an archaeological site filled with towering structures and intricate carvings, and stroll through the colonial streets of Valladolid, a town bursting with colorful architecture and lively markets. The tour wraps up with a refreshing swim in a cenote, plus a delicious regional buffet lunch.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to walk through less crowded ruins with impressive architecture like the Acropolis, and to explore Valladolid’s charming town square, which feels authentic and unspoiled. The guided tour is engaging, and the highlight—swimming in a cenote—is both relaxing and visually stunning.

One potential consideration is the $10 USD archaeological site fee, which is not included in the tour price. Also, because the tour involves quite a bit of walking and outdoor exposure, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a full day of activity.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking to combine history, culture, and natural beauty in a manageable day trip, especially if you’re eager to see Maya ruins beyond the more popular sites or want a taste of colonial Yucatán.

Key Points

• Authentic experience combining Maya ruins, colonial town, and cenote swim.
• Small group size (max 14 travelers) for personalized attention.
• Guided tour with a certified archaeologist, offering in-depth insights.
• Affordable price considering transportation, guided service, and meal.
• Timing allows ample time at each stop without rushing.
• Includes lunch and bottled water, adding to the overall value.

Exploring Ek Balam: An underrated Maya site

The highlight of this tour is Ek Balam, a site that often gets overshadowed by Chichen Itza but offers equally spectacular architecture. As we arrive, the first thing that strikes us is the towering Acropolis, which you can climb for a stunning view over the surrounding jungle. The stucco facades and detailed carvings are remarkably well-preserved, giving a real sense of what Maya artistry looked like over a thousand years ago.

Our guide, Daniel, explained that Ek Balam offers a more intimate experience because it’s less crowded. We loved the way he pointed out the hieroglyphics and explained their significance, making the stones come alive. The site also includes ball courts and stelae that provide clues into Maya rituals and governance.

A refreshing swim in the nearby cenote is a perfect way to cool down after exploring. The cenote’s crystal-clear waters are inviting, and it’s a great chance to relax in nature’s own spa. Travelers have shared that swimming in the cenote is a highlight, with one noting, “the waters were so clear and refreshing after the hot walk around the ruins.”

It’s worth noting that admission to the ruins isn’t included in the price ($10 USD), so bring cash if you want to explore fully. The visit to Ek Balam is about five hours long—a comfortable pace that allows you to absorb the sights without feeling rushed.

The charm of Valladolid

Following Ek Balam, we head to Valladolid, an elegant colonial city that feels like stepping back in time. The central square, dominated by the San Servacio Cathedral, is lively with local vendors and street performers. The Colonial architecture, with brightly painted facades and historic buildings, makes wandering the streets a visual delight.

Our guide pointed out that Valladolid is halfway between Playa del Carmen and Mérida, making it a strategic and culturally rich stop. If you’re interested in history, you’ll appreciate visiting the Convent of San Bernardino Siena, built in 1555, which remains one of the most beautiful structures in the region.

The local markets are vibrant and full of local handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce—an authentic taste of Yucatán life. We recommend spending some time browsing, chatting with vendors, and sampling local snacks if time allows.

No entrance fees are required to enjoy the town square and markets, making this part of the tour particularly accessible and budget-friendly. The three hours allocated give you enough time to soak in the city’s atmosphere, snap photos, and perhaps buy a souvenir or two.

The perfect way to end the day: swimming in a cenote

The last stop is a crystal-clear cenote, a natural sinkhole filled with cool, refreshing water. It’s a fantastic way to unwind after the morning’s sightseeing and journey through the jungle. The waters are inviting, and the setting offers great photo moments with lush surroundings.

Travelers who love nature and outdoor activities will particularly enjoy this part of the tour. We loved the way the cenote’s serene waters contrasted perfectly with the day’s archaeological and cultural stops. One reviewer mentioned, “swimming in the cenote was such a peaceful and refreshing end to a busy day.”

A practical look at what this tour offers

The tour covers a lot of ground—Ek Balam, Valladolid, and a cenote—all within a day. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during transfers, which is important since the Yucatán can be quite warm. The small group size (max 14) makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention from the guide, which enhances the experience.

The cost of $159 USD per person includes lunch, bottled water, and a guided archaeological tour, making it a good value considering the transportation and expert guidance. The $10 archaeological fee is separate but straightforward to pay on-site.

The pickup service from Playa del Carmen simplifies logistics, and the flexible cancellation policy (free up to 24 hours before) adds some peace of mind.

Who should consider this tour?

This trip suits travelers who are interested in history, culture, and natural beauty but prefer to keep things manageable in a single day. It’s ideal for those who want a small-group experience with a knowledgeable guide, and who enjoy authentic sites less crowded than the big-name ruins. It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photo-taking and swimming.

However, if you’re looking for a luxurious experience or want to explore more extensive archaeological sites, you might prefer private tours or larger packages.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour to Ek Balam and Valladolid offers a well-rounded experience for travelers eager to explore the Yucatán’s archaeological and colonial heritage without feeling rushed. The chance to climb the Acropolis at Ek Balam, stroll through Valladolid’s lively streets, and unwind in a cenote makes for a memorable, diverse day.

The blend of history, culture, and nature packed into a comfortable itinerary makes this tour stand out for its value and authenticity. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who want to see less touristy ruins and experience everyday life in a colonial town.

If you’re craving a day that balances learning, exploring, and relaxing, this tour provides a genuine taste of the Yucatán that won’t disappoint.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guided archaeological tour, a regional buffet lunch, and bottled water. Admission to the Ek Balam site and the cenote are not included.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, which helps create a more intimate and personalized atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, cash for the site fee, and a swimsuit if you plan to swim in the cenote.

Are meals included?
Yes, a regional Maya buffet lunch is included in the price, along with bottled water.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind.