Chichen Itza & Ekbalam with Cenote Swim from Cancun

A Day of Ancient Mayan Sites and Refreshing Cenote Swims from Cancun

If you’re visiting Cancun and want to step away from the beaches and party scene, this tour offers a great alternative—a full day exploring historic Mayan ruins and natural wonders. For around $83 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 to 13 hours visiting Chichen Itza, Ek’Balam, and the Cenote Hubiku, with a professional guide leading the way. The tour includes hassle-free hotel pickup, a delicious buffet lunch, and a swim in a sacred cenote, making it a well-rounded cultural adventure.

What we love about this experience is the small-group setting—limited to just 15 travelers—which means you get more personal attention and richer conversations with your guide. Plus, the tour’s balance of famous (Chichen Itza) and less crowded sites (Ek’Balam) offers a nuanced look at Mayan civilization that you won’t get in typical tourist traps. One thing to keep in mind: it’s a long day, so be prepared for a bit of physical activity and some sun. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy history, culture, and natural beauty, and who don’t mind a full schedule.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Expert guide provides insightful commentary, enhancing the understanding of Mayan culture.
• Visit to two different archaeological sites offers contrast—Chichen Itza’s fame versus Ek’Balam’s lesser-known charm.
• Swim in a cenote, a natural limestone sinkhole, for a refreshing break in nature.
• Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Includes lunch and snacks, giving you energy for the day’s exploration.

Exploring Chichen Itza: A UNESCO Wonder

Your day begins early at approximately 7:00 am with pickup from your Cancun hotel. The ride to Chichen Itza, about a 2.5-hour drive, gives you a chance to settle in and prepare for the visit. As one review notes, “It’s one of the most important archaeological sites in the world,” and rightly so. Standing before the iconic El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán), you’re struck by the precision and scale of the structure. This pyramid, built to honor the feathered serpent god, is a marvel of Mayan architecture and astronomy.

While admission isn’t included in the tour price ($33 per person), it’s well worth the extra cost. With your guide explaining the purpose of each structure and the myths surrounding them, you’ll come away with more than just a photo—you’ll have a sense of how the ancient Maya lived, worshipped, and celebrated. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, Juan Pastor, “gave a professional and very informative overview,” making the experience both educational and engaging.

Be aware that the site can get crowded, especially in peak season, but visiting early helps avoid some of the crowds. The tour allocates about 1.5 hours here, enough time to see the main structures, take photos, and learn from your guide. Since admission isn’t included, budget accordingly.

Ek’Balam: A Hidden Gem

After the morning at Chichen Itza, the journey continues to Ek’Balam, a less famous but equally impressive Mayan site. You’ll love the chance to climb the Incredible Acropolis, a massive structure offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. The carvings and decorative art here are exceptional, and the site feels more intimate than Chichen Itza, giving a sense of discovery.

One traveler raved, “The contrast between Chichen Itza and Ek Balam was great,” appreciating the way this site isn’t as tourist-heavy, allowing for a more relaxed exploration. Admission is included ($26), and your guide will point out the finer details of the stonework and Maya symbolism, enriching your understanding of the culture.

The 1-hour stop allows ample time to explore, climb, and marvel at the craftsmanship. It’s a highlight for those interested in architecture and art, and a good chance to get some less-crowded photos.

Cenote Hubiku: A Natural Oasis

Midway through the day, you’ll take a break at Cenote Hubiku, a stunning natural sinkhole that offers a refreshing swim. The turquoise waters are perfect for cooling off after walking through the ruins, and many reviewers mention this as a favorite part of the tour. One said, “Finishing the day with a cooling swim at the cenote was perfect,” and it truly offers a perfect balance of cultural exploration and nature.

Admission to the cenote is included, but life jackets cost $4 cash, which is mandatory for safety. The waters are clear and inviting, and the experience of swimming in a sacred Mayan site adds a meaningful touch to your day.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes a buffet lunch, which is a thoughtful addition that keeps you energized for the long day. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the trip comfortable, especially on hot days. Your guide will be with you throughout, sharing insights and answering questions, which makes all the difference in understanding what you’re seeing.

The total cost covers transportation, guided tours, admission to Ek’Balam and the cenote, and lunch, which makes it a good value considering the logistics involved. Keep in mind, the admission fee for Chichen Itza ($33) and Ek Balam ($26) are paid separately at the site, plus taxes of $66 are due at the destination, so budget accordingly.

One noted drawback from some reviews was disorganization initially, with late pickups and some logistical hiccups. However, most find the experience worthwhile once underway, especially thanks to knowledgeable guides and well-chosen sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to explore Mayan ruins beyond the most-famous site, this tour offers a richer, less commercial experience. It’s perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, and those who want a blend of archaeology, natural beauty, and cultural storytelling. The small-group setting makes it ideal for travelers who appreciate personalized attention and deeper insights.

Note that the long day and physical activity—climbing ruins, walking around archaeological sites—make it less suitable for travelers with limited mobility or those not comfortable in the sun.

The Sum Up

This tour from Cancun provides a meaningful glimpse into the ancient Mayan world, combined with the beauty of the Yucatán’s cenotes. The expert guides, well-chosen sites, and natural swim make for a memorable day that balances history, nature, and culture. It’s especially valuable for those wanting an authentic experience away from the crowded tourist spots, with the added comfort of small-group intimacy and included meals.

While some logistical issues were noted, the overall value and quality make it a strong choice for travelers looking to deepen their appreciation of the Mayan civilization and enjoy a refreshing break in nature.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 12 to 13 hours, starting around 7:00 am and returning in the evening.

What is included in the price?
It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided visits to Chichen Itza and Ek’Balam, admission to Ek’Balam and the cenote, a buffet lunch, and snacks.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the admission to Chichen Itza ($33), Ek Balam ($26), and taxes of $66 are paid separately at the sites. Plus, life jackets at the cenote cost $4 cash.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical activity like climbing ruins, so it’s better suited for travelers with good mobility.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, comfortable shoes, and a towel for swimming. The tour provides a lot of shade and water, but extra sun protection is wise.

Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
The included buffet lunch is generally ample, but it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a set tour with fixed stops and timing, but the small-group format allows for some flexibility in questions and engagement.

Is it worth visiting Ek’Balam instead of just Chichen Itza?
Absolutely. Ek’Balam offers a less crowded, more intimate experience with impressive structures and art, adding depth to your understanding of Maya sites.