Chichen Itza And Ek Balam Ruins + Cenote With Lunch Tour

Exploring the rich Mayan heritage of the Yucatan region is an unforgettable experience. This comprehensive tour takes visitors on a journey through the renowned Chichen Itza and the captivating Ek Balam ruins, showcasing the impressive architecture and cultural significance of these ancient sites. Beyond the archaeological wonders, the tour also includes a refreshing swim in the Hubiku Cenote and a savory regional buffet lunch, providing a well-rounded experience that immerses travelers in the natural beauty and culinary delights of the Yucatan. Unraveling the mysteries of these Mayan treasures is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this…

Key Points

Comprehensive tour exploring the renowned Mayan sites of Chichen Itza and Ek Balam, as well as the captivating Hubiku Cenote.
Early arrival at Chichen Itza to avoid crowds and discover the site’s rich history and significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Opportunity to swim in the impressive Hubiku Cenote, a natural sinkhole with stunning limestone formations, after visiting the Ek Balam ruins.
Savoring traditional Yucatecan cuisine on a regional buffet lunch, providing a chance to learn about the local culinary heritage.
Immersive experience into Mayan heritage, with a focus on the architectural feats, cultural significance, and natural wonders of the Yucatan region.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Overview

The tour kicks off with an early arrival at the renowned Mayan site of Chichen Itza, allowing you to explore this architectural marvel before the crowds.

You’ll then continue to the Ek Balam ruins, another significant Mayan site, where you’ll uncover its impressive structures and learn about the fascinating history of the region.

After the guided tours, you’ll have the chance to swim in the impressive Hubiku Cenote, a natural sinkhole with crystal-clear waters.

To cap off the day, you’ll enjoy a regional buffet lunch, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine.

This comprehensive tour offers a immersive experience into the rich Mayan heritage and natural wonders of the Yucatan peninsula.

Chichen Itza Exploration

Typically, the tour begins with an early arrival at the renowned Mayan site of Chichen Itza, allowing visitors to explore this architectural marvel before the crowds descend.

With a knowledgeable guide, travelers will explore the rich history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

They’ll walk among the towering temples, including the iconic El Castillo pyramid, and learn about the intricate carvings and astronomical alignments that showcase the Mayans’ advanced engineering and scientific prowess.

After the guided tour, guests can venture off on their own to further enjoy the ancient city’s wonders, from the dramatic ball court to the mysterious cenote that played a vital role in Mayan rituals.

Ek Balam Ruins

After exploring the renowned ruins of Chichen Itza, the tour continues onward to the lesser-known yet equally captivating site of Ek Balam.

Visitors have the opportunity to uncover the impressive architectural feats and rich cultural significance of this Mayan city, which dates back to the Classic period.

The highlight of Ek Balam is the towering Acropolis, a massive structure that stands over 100 feet tall and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle landscape.

Visitors can also discover:

The intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the palace walls, providing insights into Mayan mythology and beliefs.
The well-preserved ball court, where ancient Mayan sports were played.
The numerous residential structures that give a glimpse into the daily lives of the Mayan people.
The Cenote, a sacred sinkhole that was an important part of the city’s water supply and religious practices.

Hubiku Cenote

Following the impressive exploration of the Ek Balam ruins, the tour guides lead visitors to the captivating Hubiku Cenote, a natural sinkhole that serves as a serene oasis amidst the Yucatan landscape.

Descending into the cenote, guests are greeted by the refreshing turquoise waters and the stunning limestone formations that have been carved out over centuries.

The cenote provides a perfect opportunity to cool off after the morning’s activities, with guests able to swim and relax in the tranquil setting.

With its clear waters and unique geological features, the Hubiku Cenote is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to take in the natural beauty of the region.

Regional Buffet Lunch

After cooling off in the refreshing waters of the Hubiku Cenote, the tour group gathers for a hearty regional buffet lunch, savoring the flavors of traditional Yucatecan cuisine.

The buffet spread includes:

Cochinita pibil – slow-roasted pork in achiote and citrus marinade
Sopa de lima – a tangy lime soup with shredded chicken
Panuchos – fried tortillas topped with refried beans, shredded chicken, and pickled onions
Fresh tropical fruits and assorted regional desserts

The meal provides a perfect opportunity to refuel and learn more about the local culinary heritage before continuing the exploration of the ancient Mayan ruins at Ek Balam.

The regional flavors leave the group energized and eager to discover more of the Yucatan’s rich cultural traditions.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, along with an English-speaking guide to lead the exploration of the Chichen Itza and Ek Balam ruins.

Guests also gain early access to Chichen Itza, allowing them to experience the archaeological site before the crowds arrive.

Plus, the tour provides entry to the impressive Hubiku Cenote, where visitors can cool off with a refreshing swim.

A delightful regional buffet lunch is also included, showcasing the flavorful Yucatecan cuisine.

Bottled water is provided throughout the day, ensuring travelers stay hydrated.

With these comprehensive inclusions, guests can enjoy the Mayan heritage and natural wonders of the region with ease and comfort.

Tour Exclusions

While the tour includes an array of benefits, there are a few additional costs that travelers should be aware of. The Chichen Itza and Ek Balam state taxes, totaling 1200 MXN per person, aren’t covered in the tour price and must be paid in cash on the day of the activity.

Plus, any drinks ordered at the restaurant during the included buffet lunch aren’t part of the tour package and will incur an extra charge.

The key exclusions are:

Chichen Itza and Ek Balam state taxes (1200 MXN per person, paid in cash)
Drinks at the restaurant during the buffet lunch
Tips for the guide and driver (recommended)
Any personal expenses or souvenirs

Meeting Point and Directions

Where will travelers meet the activity providers?

According to the information provided, the staff will meet participants at the door of Super Aki Tulum. This is the designated meeting point for the Chichen Itza and Ek Balam Ruins + Cenote with Lunch Tour.

Travelers should plan to arrive at the Super Aki Tulum store front, located in Tulum, where they’ll be greeted by the tour staff. From there, the group will depart for the day’s activities, which include exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Ek Balam, as well as swimming in the impressive Hubiku Cenote.

With easy-to-find directions and a centralized meeting location, participants can look forward to a seamless start to their exciting tour.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Specific Date and Time?

Yes, you can book this tour for a specific date and time. The tour operator offers scheduled departures and allows customers to select their preferred date and time when making the booking.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour Package?

Yes, there may be options to upgrade the tour package. Travelers can often add on extra activities, private transportation, or extend the duration of the tour for an additional cost. Check with the tour provider for available upgrade options.

How Do I Get to the Meeting Point if I’m Not Staying in Tulum?

If you’re not staying in Tulum, you can make your way to the Super Aki Tulum where the tour staff will meet you. They’ll provide transportation from there to the tour sites. Just be sure to arrive at the meeting point on time.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests generally cannot bring their own food and drinks on this type of tour. The tour typically includes a buffet lunch, and bottled water is provided. Bringing outside items is usually not permitted, as the tour operator arranges the catering.

What Happens if I’m Late to the Meeting Point?

If the traveler is late to the meeting point, they may miss the tour’s departure. The tour company is unlikely to wait for late arrivals, as it needs to keep to the schedule. Arriving on time is essential to ensure participation in the full tour.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby