Full Day Tour to Chichen Itza and EkBalam with Cenote Swimming

Reviewing the Full Day Tour to Chichen Itza and EkBalam with Cenote Swimming

If you’re planning a trip to Playa del Carmen and want a way to experience some of the most iconic Mayan sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this full-day tour to Chichen Itza and EkBalam might catch your eye. It promises an early start for fewer crowds, guided insights into Mayan culture, and a refreshing dip in a cenote—all wrapped up in around 12 hours of adventure.

From what we can gather, two things stand out about this experience. First, the early access to Chichen Itza means you’ll beat the crowds and get a more intimate look at the ruins. Second, the combination of visiting two different archaeological sites offers a nice variety—one famous and well-trodden, the other more off-the-beaten-path. Of course, one thing to consider is that you’ll need to pay the entrance fees for Chichen Itza and EkBalam separately, which adds to the overall cost.

This tour seems well-suited for history buffs, culture lovers, and those who don’t mind a long day on the road. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity—climbing pyramids, walking around ruins—this experience hits many of the right notes. However, if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility is an issue, it’s worth considering the physical demands of exploring these extensive sites.

Key Points

• Early morning start helps beat the crowds at Chichen Itza, giving you a more relaxed experience.
• Guided tours ensure you learn the significance of structures and gain context about Mayan culture.
• The cenote swim at Hubiku is a refreshing way to break up the day and cool off after walking around ruins.
• The buffet lunch included offers a convenient, sit-down meal without extra expense.
• Transportation is comfortable, air-conditioned, and includes bottled water, making the long day more pleasant.
• Additional site entrance fees are payable on the day, adding to the overall cost.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from Playa del Carmen at a central location—Coco Bongo, to be precise. From there, you’ll be riding in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief given the Yucatán heat. Traveling in a small group of no more than 18 people keeps things manageable and less hectic, fostering a more personal experience with the guide.

The early pickup is a big plus because it allows you to avoid the crowds that tend to gather later in the day. We appreciate that the transport includes bottled water, which is a small but important detail for staying hydrated on a full day of exploring.

Chichen Itza: The Iconic Landmark

Arriving at Chichen Itza early, you’ll have about 2 hours to soak in the sights with a guide. This is plenty of time to visit the main structures such as La Iglesia, Las Monjas, and the Observatory, and to understand their significance. The guide’s role is key here—they’ll fill in the gaps about Mayan history and architecture, making the experience more meaningful.

Keep in mind, admission tickets to Chichen Itza are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay on-site (roughly MX$1,250 per person). This fee covers the site’s preservation and maintenance, but it’s an extra step to keep in mind.

Cenote Hubiku: A Cool Break

After touring the ruins, you’ll head to Cenote Hubiku—an underground cenote that’s renowned for its impressive stalactites. We loved the idea of taking a swim here; it’s a perfect way to refresh after the walking and heat. The inclusion of admission here is a plus, removing the need to worry about extra costs.

Visitors quote it as “one of the most impressive cenotes in Yucatan,” and the experience of swimming beneath the hanging stalactites is genuinely memorable. Expect around 1.5 hours for this stop, which gives you time to relax and enjoy the cool water.

Ek Balam: A Hidden Gem

The second archaeological site, Ek Balam, offers a different flavor of Mayan ruins—less crowded and still remarkably well-preserved. The carvings are said to be incredible, and climbing the Acropolis pyramid provides spectacular views of the jungle surroundings.

This part of the tour is about 1 hour long, and again, the entrance fee is not included. It’s worth noting that Ek Balam isn’t as famous as Chichen Itza, but its less touristy atmosphere allows for a more unhurried experience. We read reviews that travelers appreciated this quieter site as a contrast to the busier Chichen Itza.

Practical Considerations

This tour spans roughly 11 to 12 hours, which makes for a long but fulfilling day. The itinerary is quite packed, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full schedule and are in decent physical shape. Climbing pyramids and walking around expansive sites can be tiring, but the included breaks, swimming, and lunch help balance the day.

Travelers should be prepared for an additional MX$1,250 fee for entrance to the sites—this is paid on the day and not included in the initial price. The lunch buffet is a welcome inclusion, saving the hassle of finding a meal on your own and offering a decent break from the sightseeing.

What We Like

• The early start really does make a difference in avoiding crowds.
• Guided explanations help you connect the dots and understand Mayan culture better.
• The cenote swim is a great way to cool down and add a fun element to the day.
• The comfort of air-conditioned transport and bottled water make the long hours more bearable.

What Could Be Better

• The additional site fees can come as a surprise if not prepared.
• The duration and pace might be a bit exhausting for some, especially if you prefer a more relaxed tour.
• No mention of special accessibility options—might not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to see two distinct Mayan sites in one day. If you’re looking for a balance of culture, adventure, and comfort, you’ll find this a good fit. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours with educational insights and don’t mind a long day on the go.

If you’re traveling with people who want a deeper understanding of Mayan history or enjoy swimming in cenotes, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you’re after a leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider a different option.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to explore some of the Yucatán’s most famous and lesser-known archaeological sites, combined with a refreshing cenote swim and a tasty buffet lunch. The early access at Chichen Itza really makes a difference if avoiding crowds is a priority for you.

The value here is quite good, considering the guided tours, entry to the cenote, transportation, and included meal. But keep in mind the extra fees for the sites themselves. If you’re prepared for a full day and want a structured, educational experience with some fun breaks, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

Are the entrance fees to Chichen Itza and Ek Balam included?
No, the tour price does not include the site entrance fees. You will need to pay MX$1,250 per person on the day of the tour.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 to 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the physical activity involved—walking and climbing pyramids—means it’s best suited for children who are comfortable with that.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 18 travelers, which helps keep things personal and manageable.

What is included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided visits, cenote entry, a buffet lunch, and bottled water are included. The entrance fees for the ruins are extra.

Is early access to Chichen Itza worth it?
Absolutely. Arriving before the crowds makes the experience more relaxed and allows for better photos and a more immersive visit.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel for swimming. Money for the entrance fees and any extra drinks or souvenirs are also personal must-haves.

If you’re craving a full day immersed in Mayan history, with a splash of adventure and comfort, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. Just be ready for a long, active day, and you’ll come away with some great memories.