Ek Balam and Cenote Maya Adventure
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Ek Balam's ancient Mayan ruins
- Climb the Acropolis pyramid for panoramic views
- Swim in the refreshing waters of Cenote Maya
- Experience traditional Mayan rituals
- Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local cuisine
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Round-trip transportation from Cancun
- Guided tour of Ek Balam archaeological site
- Access to Cenote Maya Park with activities
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Arrival at Ek’Balam or Cenote Maya Park -according to logistics
1:45 hours guided tour at the archaeological site This archaeological site which in maya language means black jaguar is one of the most impressive ceremonial centers of the Yucatan Peninsula, you will be witness off the incredible decoration of temples and plazas. Admire the unique sculptures in high relief that have surprised archaeologists and visitors. Walk through remarkable buildings and get detailed explanations provided by your expert guide during the tour.
Once we arrived at Cenote Maya, will be a shaman waiting for us to experience a Mayan ritual to ask for permission to enter into this calm and clear sacred waters.
Dropoff at hotels in Riviera Maya or Cancún approximately time
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in English; Spanish-speaking guides may be available upon request.
- Children under 5 years old can join for free; discounted rates apply for children aged 6-12.
- Not recommended for individuals with mobility issues due to uneven terrain and climbing.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and climbing.
- Bring swimwear, a towel, and biodegradable sunscreen for the cenote swim.
- Carry cash for souvenirs and optional gratuities.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Good to know
- Minimum age is 6 years
- It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes and bring a swimsuit and sunscreen
Traveler reviews
Poor tour guide and not much to explore
I'm giving this tour **2 stars** only because the cenote was beautiful. The scenery was amazing, and swimming there was the highlight of the day. Unfortunately, the rest of the experience was disappointing. There were only two of us, plus the guide and the driver, so we expected a more personal and informative tour. The driver was friendly and professional, but the tour guide seemed tired, sleepy, and lacked enthusiasm. He spent about 15 minutes talking about Mayan traditions in the car, then at the Ek Balam Ruins he gave only a brief explanation before leaving us to explore on our own for about 30 minutes. When it was time to meet, we couldn't even find him and had to make our own way to the exit before spotting him. At the cenote, he simply told us to be back in one hour. He didn't explain where to go, how to get there, or that everyone is required to shower before entering the water. We had to figure everything out ourselves by asking other people. A tour guide should prepare guests with this kind of basic information. Lunch also felt like a sales stop. The restaurant didn't allow outside drinks, so guests were expected to buy drinks there, and we were also taken to a souvenir shop even though we weren't interested in shopping. At the end of the tour, we tipped the guide **200 pesos**, but instead of thanking us, he said, **"Really? Do you have any more?"** That was unprofessional and made us feel pressured. Overall, the cenote and the driver were the only highlights. The guide provided very little information, seemed disengaged throughout the day, and then pressured us for a larger tip. I would not recommend this tour
Amazing tour and experience
The guide and driver were wonderful. Very knowledgable and friendly. Marcos was the best! Had a great time.
A terrible disappointment all around!
Horrible experience! Pickup supposed to be 7:00 a.m. At 8;00 someone showed up to say two other groups had to be picked up first and we would be at 8:15 (no notice earlier). Then he said our tour does not go to Cenote Maya at all (the reason we were willing to pay for this tour instead of taking the free one offered by the resort). So we canceled and were promised a full refund, which we had better receive in short order or we will pursue all alternatives. One star only because that field is required--should be ZERO1
Unique, less crowded and adventurous trip for the whole family!
Amazing tour! The Cenote was our all-time favorite. It was quiet, peaceful, and adventurous for the kids. The whole family was able to repel down into the cenote, zip line, jump from various platforms, relax in tubes and kayak around the cenote. Our family was the only one down in the cenote and it was so great having it to ourselves. The tour guide was informative and friendly. Ek Balam wasn’t crowded at all, and it was fun to be able to climb to the top of the ruins. It was a little off the beaten path with the 2 Hour Dr. each way and a little more driving in between, but I would absolutely recommend it to get away from the crowds and enjoy a unique experience! The whole family gives this five stars!
Would do this your hands down!
The cenote was amazing! Zip lining down into it was breathtaking and the Zipline and jumps made it a blast to stay and take in the beautiful rock formations and crystal clear water. The guide Luis was amazing and we learned so much from him about the Mayan culture. The ruins were just as amazing. The ability to climb on them still and see them up close and personal is why we chose them over the more popular ones. The lunch was decent and the shaman purification was a neat experience. We took our 18 year old daughter and she loved it. She said it was her favorite part of the trip.