Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote From Playa del Carmen

Exploring the Ancient Maya: Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour with Cenote from Playa del Carmen

If you’re visiting Playa del Carmen and eager to see some of the Yucatan’s most iconic Mayan ruins, this tour offers a solid introduction. For around $66, you’ll visit both Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and Ek Balam, a lesser-known but equally impressive archaeological site. The day includes a refreshing swim in a cenote and a tasty buffet lunch, all in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.

What we like most about this experience is the chance to explore two distinct Mayan sites with a knowledgeable guide, which deepens the understanding of ancient culture. Plus, the inclusion of a cenote swim adds a fun, natural break amid the historical sightseeing. The small group size, capped at 19 travelers, helps keep the atmosphere intimate and more personal.

However, a word of caution—this tour has seen some mixed reviews. One traveler, Julithza G., had a less-than-ideal experience with the return trip, citing significant delays and logistical issues. So, if punctuality and smooth logistics are critical for you, this is something to consider. Overall, if you’re looking for an enriching day trip that balances culture, nature, and comfort, this tour could be a good fit—especially if you’re curious about less crowded ruins like Ek Balam and enjoy a relaxed, guided experience.

Key Points

• Includes both Chichen Itza and Ek Balam — offering a broader look at Mayan ruins than most tours.
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with small group sizes.
• Guided tour enhances understanding of the sites with expert commentary.
• Cenote swim provides a natural, refreshing break in the middle of the day.
• Includes lunch and bottled water, making it a convenient package.
• Possible delays have been reported, so patience might be required.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and How It Matters

Starting at around 7:00 am from Playa del Carmen, the tour offers a full day of exploration for $66.40 per person, with admission tickets to all sites included. The inclusions are quite thoughtful: guided commentary, transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a buffet lunch. These components add comfort and value, especially when compared to DIY efforts that might leave you scrambling for tickets or meals.

You’ll also get a snack during the day, and optional drinks on board if you choose the Plus option. The small group size (up to 19 participants) makes for a more personal experience, allowing you to ask questions and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Stop 1: Chichen Itza — The highlight for many. As you step into this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll see the iconic El Castillo pyramid and other impressive structures. Your guide will help you appreciate the significance of each monument, providing context that you might miss on your own. Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, which is enough to get a good overview but maybe not enough for a detailed exploration of every corner.

Stop 2: Cenote Saamal — After the archaeological sites, you’ll stop at this natural limestone sinkhole, a hallmark of the Yucatan landscape. The clear, cool waters are perfect for a quick swim. Cenotes are a must-see because they offer a natural contrast to the ancient stone ruins, a refreshing reminder of the land’s geological beauty. The entrance fee ($4) is separate, so be prepared for that. Expect about an hour here.

Stop 3: Ek Balam — Less crowded than Chichen Itza but just as fascinating, Ek Balam features a well-preserved Acropolis with intricate carvings and a chance to climb the structure for aerial views. The guide’s explanations help you understand the site’s history and artistry. You’ll have about an hour to explore, which should be enough to climb the ruins and admire the detailed stonework.

Real Traveler Insights

One recent traveler, Julithza G., shared a less favorable experience, recounting a long, exhausting return journey that extended into the early morning because of logistical issues, notably a tire problem. While most of the tour’s aspects are well-organized, this review underscores the importance of managing expectations regarding timing and reliability.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive between sites much easier, especially in the hot Yucatan sun. The small group size helps foster a friendly, intimate environment, and guides tend to be knowledgeable, adding value through detailed explanations.

The Value for Money

At $66.40, this tour offers a lot: two Mayan ruins, a cenote swim, lunch, and expert guiding. While the entrance fee for Chichen Itza (around $66) is not included in the price, the convenience of having tickets, transportation, and meals bundled makes it an attractive package.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This experience suits travelers who want a guided, relatively relaxed day seeing major Mayan sites without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. It’s ideal if you’re curious about Ek Balam and prefer a natural swim in a cenote. However, those who highly value punctuality or have limited mobility might want to weigh the reported delays and the physical demands of climbing ruins.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for an affordable, guided day trip that covers essential ruins and offers a splash of natural beauty, this tour is a solid choice. The inclusion of Ek Balam offers a less commercialized alternative to Chichen Itza, which many travelers find more manageable and less crowded. The cenote adds a fun, cooling break—something you won’t get from a purely archaeological tour.

That said, it’s worth being aware of potential delays, as one reviewer experienced a very late return. If punctuality is a priority for you, or if you prefer a more flexible, self-guided approach, you might consider other options.

This tour balances value, insight, and comfort, making it a good fit for curious travelers eager to get a broad sense of Mayan heritage without breaking the bank.

FAQ

What sites will I visit on this tour?
You will explore Chichen Itza, known for its iconic pyramid and large archaeological complex, and Ek Balam, a less crowded site with impressive carvings and a climbable Acropolis. You’ll also swim in a cenote called Saamal.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning to Playa del Carmen the same day. Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes at Chichen Itza, 1 hour at the cenote, and 1 hour at Ek Balam.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle suitable for a long day of travel. Small group size (up to 19 people) helps keep the ride comfortable.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included, along with bottled water and a snack. Drinks on board are available if you select the Plus option.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the Chichen Itza entrance fee (around $66) and the cenote life jacket rental ($4) are paid separately. These are not included in the upfront price.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
The tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level because of walking and climbing at Ek Balam. Travelers should be prepared for a full day and potential delays, so patience is helpful.

In the end, this tour offers an engaging way to connect with Yucatan’s ancient past, with the comforts of guided expertise and natural beauty. It’s best suited for those ready for a busy day, keen to learn, and comfortable in group settings.