Chichen Itza & EkBalam Ruins with Cenote Swimming from Cancun

If you’re considering a day trip from Cancun to explore some of Mexico’s most iconic archaeological sites and natural wonders, this tour offers a way to see both the famous and lesser-known Mayan ruins in one go. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on what travelers report and the tour’s details, it seems like an efficient, well-organized way to tick off a couple of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Two things we especially like about this experience are its focus on guiding you through key historical sites with knowledgeable guides and the inclusion of a refreshing cenote swim, which adds a nice break from the sightseeing grind. The tour’s price, at $83 per person, also feels reasonable for a full day packed with cultural and natural highlights.

However, a potential consideration is the long duration—about 12 to 13 hours—which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to early mornings or long bus rides. It’s also worth noting that the tour can get quite hot, especially if you go during summer, so packing sun protection is a must.

This trip is best suited for first-time visitors eager to maximize their time and experience both major and minor Maya sites with some downtime in between. If you love history, are okay with a long day, and want streamlined access to the highlights with everything included, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• All-inclusive pricing simplifies the experience with entrance fees and meals.
• Guided tours provide insightful stories that bring the ruins to life.
• Multiple stops allow you to see both the famous Chichen Itza and the lesser-known Ek Balam.
• Cenote swimming offers a fun and cooling break in natural waters.
• Long day but well-paced for those comfortable with early starts and extensive touring.
• Group size capped at 18 enhances the personalized feel.

What’s Included and How It Shapes Your Day

This tour is designed to be quite comprehensive for a day trip. At $83 per person, it covers much of what you’d want—transport, entrance fees (except for some taxes), guides, lunch, and bottled water. The inclusion of meals and water means you won’t need to worry about additional expenses, which helps keep the day smooth.

On the flip side, you’ll need to budget extra for the Chichen Itza and Ek Balam taxes, which amount to about $66 per person, and a small fee for rental life jackets in the cenote if you want one. Drinks aren’t included if you opt for the basic package, so bringing some cash or your own drinks might be wise.

The transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle, which is a definite plus after a long drive in Mexico’s heat. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, making it more intimate than large bus tours, which we think improves the overall experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Chichen Itza

This is the star of the show and definitely a highlight. You’ll spend around 1 hour 30 minutes exploring the site with a guide who shares stories and facts about the Mayan civilization. The guide is a key part of the experience, as we’ve seen from reviews praising Patricio’s knowledge and attentiveness.

What you’ll love is the chance to get up close to the iconic pyramid and other structures, with enough time to wander around, take photos, and appreciate the scale and detail. Keep in mind, it’s a busy, popular site so it can get crowded.

Stop 2: Cenote Saamal

After the culture, you’ll visit Cenote Saamal for a cool-down. It’s about an hour here, which is enough time to relax, swim, and enjoy the natural water. The cenote’s natural beauty and refreshing waters offer a great break from the heat and the walking.

From reviews, we gather that the water can be quite inviting—a well-deserved respite. You might choose to rent a life jacket for about $4, but many find the water plenty safe for swimming, especially if you’re comfortable in natural waters.

Stop 3: Ek Balam

The lesser-known ruins of Ek Balam provide a more intimate, less crowded experience. You’ll spend around 1 hour 30 minutes here, giving you enough time to climb to the top of the temples and see the frescoes, which depict the Maya underworld.

Your guide will tell you stories about the site’s history, and many visitors appreciate the chance to explore a site that’s not overrun with travelers. Climbing the temples is generally allowed and offers fantastic views, but travelers should be comfortable with some physical activity.

What Travelers Say

From reviews we’ve seen, many appreciate the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer specifically mentioning Patricio’s expertise. They say the long day is “definitely worth it”, especially for first-timers or those eager to see the main highlights without multiple trips.

However, some warn about the intensity of the heat, especially in June when one reviewer noted it was “very hot (100°F).” Proper sun protection, hats, and water are a must. Several reviews also highlight how the tour is “long but extremely memorable,” emphasizing the value of experienced guides who keep you engaged and well-cared-for.

The Practicalities

The tour kicks off early, at 6:00 am from the meeting point in Cancun, which means a long day ahead. Expect around 12 to 13 hours of activity, so it’s best suited for those who are physically comfortable and ready for a full day of sightseeing.

Transportation is comfortable thanks to air conditioning, and the small group size makes the experience more personal. The tour ends back at the starting point, which is convenient for those staying close by.

Remember, the tour is weather-dependent—bad weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but refunds or alternative dates are offered.

Who Would This Tour Suit?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a guided, rundown of the major Maya sites without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with early mornings and long days. If you have an interest in history and want to include a refreshing swim in a cenote, you’ll find this trip ticks many boxes.

Not the best choice if you’re looking for a relaxed, leisurely day or traveling with small children who might find the length and physical activity demanding. But for adventurous, curious travelers ready to explore with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers good value and memorable sights.

The Sum Up

If you’re in Cancun and eager to see both Chichen Itza and Ek Balam in one go, this tour offers a practical, guided approach. It packs a lot into a single day: iconic pyramids, lesser-known ruins, a swim in a natural cenote, and included meals and water to keep you energized. The presence of experienced guides, especially those praised for their knowledge, enhances the experience, making it more than just a checklist of sights.

While it’s a long day and can be hot, many visitors find the convenience, value, and comprehensive nature of this trip well worth the effort. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their time, learn about Mayan culture, and enjoy a mix of history and nature. Just prepare for the weather, bring comfortable shoes, and be ready for an adventure packed with history, swimming, and beautiful scenery.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, starting early at 6:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, which helps make the long day more comfortable.

What is included in the cost?
The price covers entrance fees (except taxes), a guide, two meals, bottled water, and transportation. Remember, taxes for Chichen Itza and Ek Balam are about $66 per person, and a small fee applies for cenote life jackets if you choose to rent one.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you should budget extra for the taxes and a possible $4 fee for a life jacket. Drinks aren’t included if you book the basic option, so consider bringing some with you.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour requires moderate physical activity and stamina, so it might be better suited for older children or teens comfortable with long days.

What should I bring?
Sun protection, a hat, swimsuit and towel for swimming, comfortable shoes, and some cash for extras.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Most travelers love the guided visit to Chichen Itza, a true bucket-list site, combined with the lesser-known Ek Balam and the refreshing cenote swim.

This trip offers a nice balance of history, natural beauty, and practical convenience. If you’re okay with a full day on the move and want to see some of the most famous ruins in Mexico, you’d likely find this experience a worthwhile addition to your Cancun itinerary.