Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Hubiku Cenote- Small Group

Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Hubiku Cenote – Small Group Tour: A Deep Dive into Mayan Heritage

If you’re looking for an experience that combines iconic ruins, a refreshing swim, and the chance to explore some lesser-known sites, this small-group tour from Playa del Carmen offers just that. For about $185 per person, you’ll spend around 12 hours visiting Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Hubiku Cenote, with the comfort and intimacy of a limited group size. Guided by passionate local experts—like Gabriel, Jesus, or Lilly—you’ll gain insights that turn sightseeing into storytelling.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances well-known highlights with the quieter, less crowded Ek Balam. Plus, the inclusion of a buffet lunch and a swim in a cenote makes the long day feel very well-rounded. That said, be prepared for a fair amount of time on the road, especially if traveling from Cancun, as the route varies daily.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a small, personal experience with knowledgeable guides, especially if you’re eager to avoid the crowds at Chichen Itza or want to climb the impressive pyramid at Ek Balam. It’s perfect for history buffs, adventurous travelers, and families looking for a full-day cultural outing.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Visit both Chichen Itza and Ek Balam, with Ek Balam offering the unique opportunity to climb the pyramid.
• Includes a swim at Hubiku Cenote and a tasty buffet lunch.
• Transport is comfortable and air-conditioned, with hotel pickups from Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya.
• Tickets for Chichen Itza are not included, but you can purchase them easily on-site for $45 USD.
• Long but rewarding day; prepare for extensive travel time, especially from Cancun.

A First Look at the Experience

This tour offers a deep dive into the heart of the Yucatan, blending history, nature, and local culture into one memorable day. Starting early, typically around 5 AM, you’ll be picked up from your hotel—no fuss, with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and a small group of up to 14 travelers. It’s this intimate size that makes all the difference, allowing your guide to tailor stories and answer questions in a relaxed environment.

You’ll spend about three hours at Chichen Itza, the most famous Mayan site, home to the Kukulkan pyramid. Although tickets are at your own expense ($45 USD), the tour’s streamlined process means no long lines for tickets, and you’ll be there early enough to beat the crowds. Many reviews highlight the benefit of arriving before the large tour buses—“We arrived at Chichen Itza even before they open,” notes some travelers, which means more space for photos and appreciating the site’s grandeur quietly.

Next, you’ll head to Hubiku Cenote for a cooling swim. Entrance fees are included, so all you need is your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. Whether you choose to swim or explore the surrounding grounds, this stop offers a refreshing break from the heat and a chance to see the natural beauty of the Yucatan. The grounds are well-maintained and the cenote is a popular but not overly crowded spot, perfect for a bit of downtime.

The highlight for many is Ek Balam, a lesser-visited site that offers the thrill of climbing a pyramid still open to visitors. With as many steps as Chichen Itza’s main pyramid, but fewer travelers, it’s a special opportunity for a more intimate encounter with ancient architecture. The sculptures and carvings here are noted for their clarity and craftsmanship. Visitors often enjoy the ability to explore the site at their own pace, and some reviews mention the “amazing sculptures” and the “challenging climb in the heat”, but everyone agrees it’s worth the effort.

Throughout the day, a buffet lunch provides a hearty meal, often praised for its flavor and variety, including traditional Mayan dishes like pork and spicy sauces. Plus, bottled water, juice, and snacks keep everyone energized.

The guides are a significant part of the experience. Many travelers sing their praises—“Gabriel’s positivity and photo tips,” or “Jesus’s knowledge and patience,”—which really elevates the entire day. They’re not just narrators but storytellers who share insights into Mayan culture, art, and spiritual significance, making the ruins come alive.

The Convenience and Practicalities

The hotel pickup and drop-off are smooth, especially if you’re staying in Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives more comfortable, though some reviews mention the roads can be bumpy, and the vehicle may have some mechanical quirks. It’s worth noting that travel time from Cancun can be longer due to routing, which depends on the number of guests and their hotel locations.

The pricing is reasonable given what’s included: transportation, guides, entrance fees for Cenote and Ek Balam, and a buffet lunch. The Chichen Itza ticket isn’t included but can be purchased easily for $45 USD. Many travelers appreciate the seamless process, noting that there are no lines at the ticket office, thanks to the early start.

A key consideration is the length of the day—approximately 12 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness willing to handle a full day of sightseeing and walking. The tour is designed for those eager to see multiple sites without the hassle of planning their own transportation.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

Travelers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. Their ability to share stories and cultural context transforms a simple sightseeing trip into an educational journey. Many reviews mention guides like Gabriel, Jesus, and Lilly by name, emphasizing their passion and attentiveness.

The sites themselves are stunning and historically significant, not just as photo ops but as places where you can stand in awe of ancient craftsmanship. Ek Balam, in particular, offers the thrill of climbing the pyramid, a feature that sets it apart from the more crowded Chichen Itza.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusion of transport, entrance fees, guided commentary, meals, and a cenote swim, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a comprehensive way to experience the highlights of the Yucatan’s Mayan heritage without the stress of navigating alone or waiting in lines. Several reviews highlight that the experience was worth every penny, especially for the personalized service and small-group atmosphere.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts who want to see both the famous Chichen Itza and the lesser-known Ek Balam. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a small group with knowledgeable guides. If you’re eager to climb ancient pyramids, enjoy swimming in cenotes, and appreciate authentic storytelling, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or dislike long bus rides, you might want to consider the drawbacks some travelers mention, such as the long travel hours and bumpy roads. Also, if you’re traveling from Cancun, be prepared for a longer day due to routing.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Playa del Carmen offers a well-rounded introduction to the ancient Mayan civilization, combining spectacular ruins, natural beauty, and cultural insights. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and inclusion of meals and cenote swimming make it a popular choice for travelers eager for an immersive day.

While the trip is lengthy and involves considerable travel time, many find the value and authenticity well worth the effort. You’ll love the chance to climb Ek Balam, enjoy peaceful moments at Cenote Hubiku, and walk through the iconic structures of Chichen Itza, all with expert guidance that brings history to life.

This experience suits those who prioritize quality over convenience, are eager to learn, and want to see multiple sites in one day with minimal hassle. It’s particularly recommended for travelers who enjoy small groups, cultural storytelling, and active exploration.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya hotels. Cancun and Costa Mujeres are not included.

Do I need to buy tickets for Chichen Itza separately?
The tour does not include tickets, which are purchased at your own expense for about $45 USD per adult. The process at the site is smooth with no lines.

How much walking is involved?
You should have moderate physical fitness to handle walking around the ruins and climbing the pyramid at Ek Balam. Expect some steps and uneven surfaces.

Can I climb the pyramids?
Yes, at Ek Balam you can climb the main pyramid, which many reviews say is a highlight. Chichen Itza’s main pyramid is not climbable.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier interaction with guides.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, a towel if you want to swim, and some cash for souvenirs or optional purchases.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and travel.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they should be able to handle a lengthy day and the physical activity involved, especially climbing the pyramid.

In essence, this tour balances the must-see Mayan sites with unique experiences like climbing Ek Balam and swimming in Cenote Hubiku. For those eager to learn, explore, and avoid large crowds, it offers a personal and enriching journey through the Yucatan’s ancient past.