From Cancun: Ek Balam and Cenote Tour With Lunch & Transfer

Exploring the ruins of Ek Balam and cooling off in the inviting waters of a Yucatecan cenote make for a captivating day trip from Cancun. This guided tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the ancient Mayan site, unveiling its architectural wonders, before treating them to a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear natural swimming hole. Complemented by a delightful local lunch, the experience offers a well-rounded cultural encounter. With convenient hotel pickup and round-trip transportation, this tour provides an opportunity to discover the rich history and natural beauty that lie beyond the bustling resort town.

Key Points

• This tour offers a guided exploration of the Ek Balam archaeological site and a refreshing swim in the Chichikan Cenote, accompanied by a traditional Yucatecan lunch.
• The tour includes pickup from Cancun hotels, a 2.5-hour bus transfer to Ek Balam, and a 2-hour guided tour of the impressive structures and hieroglyphic inscriptions.
• Visitors will enjoy a 30-minute drive to the Chichikan Cenote, where they can swim in the cool, crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush vegetation for up to two hours.
• The tour includes a delightful local lunch with over 20 options to choose from, featuring traditional Yucatecan dishes such as cochinita pibil and sopa de lima.
• After the cenote swim and lunch, the tour will return to Cancun, concluding the day’s adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore Ek Balam, one of the largest archaeological sites in Mesoamerica, and take a refreshing swim in the Chichikan Cenote.

Travelers will embark on a guided tour of Ek Balam, discovering the impressive structures and learning about the site’s rich history.

After the exploration, the group will head to the Chichikan Cenote, where they can take a dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters.

The tour also includes a delightful local lunch with over 20 options to choose from.

Plus, visitors will have the chance to visit the charming town of Uayma, adding to the culture experience.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from guests’ hotels in Cancun, followed by a 2.5-hour bus transfer to the Ek Balam archaeological site.

Upon arrival, visitors embark on a guided tour of the impressive structures and learn about the rich history of this one of the largest Mesoamerican sites, which takes approximately 2 hours.

Next, the group boards the bus for a 30-minute drive to the Chichikan Cenote, where they can swim in the refreshing waters and enjoy a typical local lunch with over 20 options.

After about 2 hours at the cenote, it’s time to head back to Cancun, a 2-hour journey, concluding the day’s adventure.

Site Exploration

After the bus transfer from Cancun, visitors will explore the impressive structures and monuments of the Ek Balam archaeological site on a guided tour. They’ll learn about the rich history and significance of this one of the largest Mesoamerican sites.

The tour guide will provide insights into:

• The imposing limestone pyramids and temples
• The well-preserved stucco carvings and sculptures
• The intricate hieroglyphic inscriptions on the buildings
• The discovery of a remarkably intact royal tomb
• The architectural and engineering feats of the Maya civilization

Visitors will be awed by the scale and complexity of the Ek Balam ruins, gaining a deeper understanding of the ancient Maya world.

Refreshing Swim

Next, visitors will enjoy a refreshing swim in the inviting waters of Chichikan Cenote. This natural swimming hole offers a serene escape from the warm tropical climate, with its cool, crystal-clear waters perfect for cooling off and relaxing. The cenote is surrounded by lush vegetation, providing a picturesque backdrop for the swimming experience.

After exploring the ancient ruins of Ek Balam, guests can take a short transfer to the cenote and dive into the refreshing waters. Life jackets are provided for safety, and visitors can spend up to two hours swimming, relaxing, and taking in the natural beauty of this stunning natural wonder.

The swim is followed by a delicious local lunch, rounding out an unforgettable day of adventure and relaxation.

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Local Cuisine

Visitors can savor a typical local lunch with over 20 options during this tour, providing an authentic culinary experience.

The menu features a wide array of traditional Yucatecan dishes, allowing guests to enjoy the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. The lunch includes:

• Cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish
• Sopa de lima, a tangy lime soup
• Queso relleno, a cheese-stuffed delicacy
• Papadzules, corn tortillas with pumpkin seed sauce
• Panuchos, fried tortillas topped with refried beans

This gastronomic demonstration not only satisfies the palate but also offers an opportunity to learn about the intricacies of Mayan and Mexican cuisine, making the tour a truly immersive cultural experience.

Charming Town

The charming town of Uayma, located near the cenote, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can stroll through the quaint streets and admire the well-preserved colonial architecture. This picturesque town is a delightful addition to the Ek Balam and cenote tour, providing a chance to take in the local way of life.

Visitors can explore the vibrant town square, visit the historic church, and browse the artisanal shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.

The relaxed pace and friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere, making Uayma a charming respite from the more touristic areas. This charming town adds depth and authenticity to the overall tour experience.

Inclusions and Pricing

The tour package includes a range of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Guests can expect hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a guided tour of the Ek Balam archaeological site.

Plus, the tour provides access to the refreshing waters of the Chichikan Cenote, where visitors can swim while wearing provided life jackets.

The tour also includes:

• A typical local lunch with over 20 options
• A guided tour of the Chichikan Cenote
• Bottled water throughout the tour
• A bilingual guide
• Up to 35% savings compared to the regular price

The tour is priced at a discounted rate of €58.88 per person, making it an affordable and value-packed excursion.

Important Considerations

While the tour offers an array of inclusions and a discounted price, there are a few important considerations prospective participants should keep in mind.

Specifically, the tour operates rain or shine, so guests should come prepared for the weather conditions. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the sites may involve uneven terrain and stairs.

To ensure a smooth experience, the specific schedule and meeting point for each reservation will be provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

The tour includes a typical local lunch, so bringing your own food is generally not allowed. However, you may want to check with the tour provider if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences that need to be accommodated.

Is There an Option for Vegetarian or Vegan Lunch?

Yes, the tour offers a vegetarian or vegan lunch option. Guests can select this option when booking the tour, and the guide will ensure the local lunch provided accommodates their dietary preferences.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No special equipment is required for this tour. Life jackets are provided for the cenote swim, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The tour includes all necessary equipment and transportation for the activities.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Persons of all ages can participate, though children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for families and groups.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, you can extend the duration of the tour. Most tour operators offer flexible options to customize the itinerary and duration based on your preferences. Contact them to discuss your specific needs and make arrangements accordingly.

Recap

This tour offers an immersive experience, exploring the ancient ruins of Ek Balam and cooling off in the crystal-clear waters of Chichikan Cenote.

With a delightful local lunch and round-trip transportation from Cancun, it’s a well-rounded adventure that provides an opportunity to discover Yucatecan culture and natural beauty.

The guided tour and included amenities ensure a memorable day for visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here: