Chichen Itza & Ekbalam with Cenote swim from Playa del Carmen

If you’re planning a trip to the Riviera Maya and want to experience some of the most iconic Mayan ruins along with a refreshing swim in a cenote, this tour might catch your eye. It’s a full-day adventure that covers Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and a swim in Cenote Saamal, with a buffet lunch thrown in for good measure. The overall rating is a solid 4.5 out of 5 based on over 160 reviews, and a lot of travelers seem to think it’s worth the price of around $83 per person.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines major archaeological sites with a natural delight—the cenote—giving a well-rounded taste of the region. Plus, the guided commentary helps make the ruins more meaningful, especially if you’re a history enthusiast. Another plus is the round-trip transport from Playa del Carmen, which takes the hassle out of logistics. But, as with most full-day tours, the long hours and tight seating can be a bit tiring, so it’s worth considering if you’re comfortable on buses for several hours.

If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or wants to skip the extra costs like entrance fees or optional extras, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy learning on the go, don’t mind a long day, and want a snapshot of the Maya past combined with a splash of nature. This tour definitely fits those looking for an efficient, guided experience with a good mix of culture and adventure.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines three major stops—Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and a cenote swim—in a single day.
• Guided Insight: Knowledgeable guides help bring the ruins to life, making the history more accessible.
• Convenient Transport: Round-trip air-conditioned transportation from Playa del Carmen simplifies logistics.
• Cost Breakdown: The basic price is $83, but be aware of additional fees like entrance tickets and optional extras.
• Long Day: Expect around 12-13 hours from start to finish, so pack snacks and stay comfortable.
• Family-Friendly? It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but be prepared for a lot of walking and some climbing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Chichen Itza: The Iconic UNESCO Site

Your adventure begins early, with pickup at 7:00 am from Playa del Carmen. Chichen Itza is the star of the show, and rightly so. It’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Walking through this sprawling archaeological site, you’ll see the El Castillo pyramid, the ball court, and the observatory. It’s a place where the grandeur of ancient Maya civilization can still be felt—if you listen carefully with a guide, that is.

However, keep in mind that admission to Chichen Itza is not included in the tour price, which is common for such trips. Expect to pay around USD 40 per person at the gate, and plan for extra if you want a guide at the site itself. Some reviews mention that the tour guide provides good context here, but you might want a little extra cash for a more detailed experience.

Cenote Saamal: A Refreshing Break in Nature

After exploring the ruins, the tour heads to Cenote Saamal, which is included in your ticket price. These natural limestone sinkholes are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula and offer crystal-clear waters perfect for a quick swim. The Cenote’s tranquil waters make it a highlight, especially on a hot day, as many reviews point out. It’s a great chance to cool off and enjoy a bit of a jungle oasis.

The experience is quite straightforward—no need for snorkeling gear unless you rent a life jacket for USD 4. This actually seems like a popular part of the day, with many reviewers mentioning it as a refreshing and fun interlude.

Ek Balam: The Lesser-Known Marvel

Next, you’ll visit Ek Balam, a site that’s less crowded but equally impressive. You’ll have about an hour here to explore the ruins and climb the Acropolis—a highlight for many visitors. The carvings and structures at Ek Balam are exceptional, and the fact that fewer travelers visit means you often get a more relaxed experience.

Entry to Ek Balam is not included in the tour price, with a fee of USD 26 per person. Some reviews praise the site for its exceptional art and carvings, noting that climbing the Acropolis offers fantastic views. Be prepared for some uphill walking and climbing if you decide to explore thoroughly.

Lunch and Additional Time

A buffet lunch is included, which offers a needed break and nourishment after a busy morning. The options vary, and you can choose different food and drink packages to suit your preferences. While the reviews don’t specify the quality, a decent meal during such a long day is usually appreciated.

The Transport and Overall Experience

The tour is operated by Cancun Bay Tours and features air-conditioned buses, which are essential considering how hot the Yucatán can get, especially in summer. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, creating a more intimate environment, and many reviewers highlight the guides’ knowledge—making the history of these sites come alive.

However, the long hours mean you’ll be on the bus for a significant part of the day—some reviews mention the seats are tight, and the drive can be tiring. Bringing snacks or buying some at the pickup point is often recommended. The early start (7 am) means a full day but allows you to see everything without feeling rushed.

Pricing and Value

While the tour costs $83 per person, keep in mind that additional fees for entrance tickets (USD 40 for Chichen Itza and USD 26 for Ek Balam) are extra. The cenote admission is included, but renting a life jacket is not. When you add these costs, the total can be around USD 95–$100, which still offers a good value considering the sights covered and the guided experience.

Reviews show that many travelers felt the tour was worth it, praising the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized itinerary. One reviewer noted that the long day could be tiring, but the experience was enriching.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day trip is ideal for history lovers who want to see both the famous Chichen Itza and the quieter Ek Balam at a reasonable price. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy a mix of cultural exploration and natural beauty, especially if you don’t mind spending most of the day on a bus.

While not specifically tailored for families, travelers with moderate physical fitness will find it manageable, as the sites involve walking and climbing. The guided component makes it suitable for anyone who prefers a structured, informative experience over independent exploring.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Maya civilization within a single day. The combination of major archaeological sites, a cenote swim, and a buffet lunch makes for a well-rounded outing. The guides seem to be a highlight, helping make the history accessible and engaging.

Of course, the length and the additional entrance fees are considerations—if you’re not comfortable with long bus rides or want to avoid extra costs, this might not be the perfect choice. But if you’re eager to maximize sightseeing and enjoy an organized, guided day, this tour delivers good value and memorable moments.

In the end, it’s a solid option for those who want a reliable, informative, and active day exploring the Mayan world beyond Playa del Carmen.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides round-trip, air-conditioned transportation from Playa del Carmen, making it very convenient.

What time does the tour start? The pickup is at 7:00 am from the designated meeting point.

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees for Chichen Itza (USD 40) and Ek Balam (USD 26) are paid separately. Cenote admission is included.

How long is the tour? Expect approximately 12 to 13 hours, depending on traffic and timing at each site.

Can I climb the ruins? Yes, you can climb the Acropolis at Ek Balam and explore the other archaeological features.

Is the tour suitable for families? It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but the long hours and walking might be tiring for very young children.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, hat, water, possibly a towel if you plan to swim, and some cash for extra fees or snacks.

How fit do I need to be? Moderate fitness is recommended because of walking and climbing involved at Ek Balam and Chichen Itza.

Is the tour recommended by others? Yes, approximately 94% of reviewers recommend it, citing knowledgeable guides and good organization as key positives.

If you’re after a well-organized day that hits the highlights and offers some natural refreshment, this trip from Playa del Carmen could be just what you’re looking for. Just be prepared for a full day of exploration and a bit of a long bus ride, and you’ll likely come away with some great memories.