Chichen Itza & Ekbalam Tour From Playa del Carmen

If you’re eyeing a day packed with history, spectacular ruins, and a cool dip in a cenote, this Chichen Itza & Ekbalam tour is worth considering. It’s a full-day adventure designed to pack in some of the Yucatán’s most iconic sites—all within roughly 12 hours. We’ve looked into the details, reviews, and what travelers can expect, so you can decide if this experience suits your travel style.

Two things we really like about this tour are the chance to visit both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a lesser-known Maya ruin—the latter offering a more relaxed environment and vivid frescoes—and the inclusion of meals and entrance fees in the price, making it a straightforward day. The main downside? It’s a long day, so if you’re not a fan of early mornings or walking in heat, this might be a challenge.

This tour is ideal for those who want an in-depth archaeological experience with knowledgeable guides, and who appreciate a well-organized day that covers significant sites without the hassle of planning multiple tickets or meals. Families, history buffs, and curious travelers who want a more intimate tour with limited group size will find this particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 12-hour experience exploring two Maya sites plus a cenote
• All entrance fees, meals, and pickup/drop-off are included
• Small group size (limited to 15 people) enhances personal attention and comfort
• Expert guides provide insights into Maya history and culture
• Swim in a cenote for a cooling break after touring ruins
• Authentic meals included, with vegetarian options available

A Well-Balanced Full-Day Tour

This tour offers a solid balance of archaeological marvels, cultural learning, and refreshment. Starting early from Playa del Carmen, it’s a long but rewarding day—so packing a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water is wise. The highlight is visiting Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and a site that practically defines Maya civilization. Our sources indicate that the guide’s explanations—”very informative” and “engaging”—are often a highlight, helping visitors appreciate the complex alignments and stories behind the ruins.

Chichen Itza: The Iconic Ruins

Arriving at Chichen Itza, you’ll notice the site’s immensity. The El Castillo pyramid, with its precise astronomical alignments, is the star attraction. During equinoxes, a shadow of a feathered serpent appears to slither down the steps—a perfect Instagram moment, but also a reminder of the Maya’s impressive astronomical knowledge. The guide will likely point out other must-visit spots like the ball court and the observatory.

One reviewer noted, “No title: loved the tour—Edwin is a star!” and appreciated the “great explanation” of the site’s features. Because the tour includes all entrance fees, there’s no need to worry about extra costs here; just bring your curiosity and a camera.

Cenote Hubikku: A Refreshing Break

After exploring Chichen Itza, the next stop is the cenote, a natural limestone sinkhole where you can cool off. This particular cenote is celebrated as a perfect place for a quick swim, illuminated by sunlight filtering through the opening above. Multiple reviews mention how refreshing this was after the morning’s heat, with one saying, “The swim in the cenote was very refreshing.” It’s a chance to relax, take some photos, and feel connected to the land’s natural beauty.

Ek Balam: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Gem

The final archaeological stop is Ek Balam, which gets less foot traffic than Chichen Itza but offers equally spectacular sights. You can climb the acropolis, marvel at the vivid frescoes, and see scenes depicting the Maya underworld. The site’s jungle setting makes it feel like an adventure, and visitors often comment on how “spectacular” and “well-preserved” the ruins are.

One reviewer pointed out, “Ek Balam is less visited but so well worth it,” describing the experience as akin to exploring a hidden treasure. The site’s re-discovery history adds a layer of curiosity, making this a favorite among those wanting a more authentic encounter with Maya archaeology.

The Logistics and What It Means for You

This tour is priced at $85 per person, which covers transportation, all entrance fees, meals, bottled water, and the guided experience. That’s a pretty competitive deal, considering how much you get in return. Keep in mind that taxes are not included in the price—an additional $66 USD per person—which can seem steep. However, when you consider the convenience of organized transportation, guided insights, and meals, many find it good value.

The group size is capped at 15-18 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and fewer crowds. The transportation is comfortable, and pickup is arranged in Playa del Carmen, starting early at 7:00 am. This early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures in the ruins.

Some travelers have praised the guides for being “very knowledgeable” and “friendly,” enhancing the experience significantly. However, a handful of reviews mention logistical hiccups—late pickups, long waits, or less-than-ideal meal timing—so patience might be necessary.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are meals (breakfast and lunch), admission to Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and the cenote, bottled water, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Drinks are not included if you select the basic option, and there’s an optional life vest fee at the cenote (approximately $5).

Tax is extra, and some reviews mention that the food quality varies—some found it satisfying, others thought it could be better. The lunch typically is served around mid-afternoon, so be prepared for a wait if you’re hungry earlier.

What To Bring

Given the hot weather, packing sports shoes or sandals, swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, biodegradable sunscreen, mosquito repellent, camera, and cash for tips or souvenirs is recommended. The tour is noted to require moderate physical fitness—climbing ruins and walking for several hours.

Authenticity and Traveler Feedback

Reviews paint a picture of a mostly positive experience, especially praising guides like Edwin or Braulio for their knowledge and engaging manner. Many travelers appreciated the small group size and felt it made the experience more intimate.

One traveler summed it up: “The tour guides were very informative and went out of their way. I would highly recommend it.” But not every experience is perfect. A few reviews mention long delays, crowded sites, or feeling rushed. For instance, one reviewer noted that they arrived late and had limited time at Chichen Itza, which can be frustrating when trying to see everything.

Overall, most travelers agree that the value for money is good—especially with meals and transportation covered—and that this tour offers a genuine glimpse into the Maya world, far from the typical tourist crush.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive archaeological day with a knowledgeable guide to help interpret the sites. It’s a good pick for travelers comfortable with long days and walking, and for those who appreciate small group settings over large coach tours. Families with children should be mindful of the physical demands, but the inclusion of swimming in a cenote makes it appealing for kids who enjoy water.

If you’re looking for a less crowded, more authentic experience with the chance to climb pyramids and explore ruins at your own pace, this tour fits the bill. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the included meals and entrance fees, making it straightforward and hassle-free.

Final Thoughts

This Chichen Itza & Ekbalam tour offers a balanced mix of iconic sites, natural beauty, and cultural insights, all wrapped in a well-organized package. The small group size and guided commentary enrich the experience, turning a sightseeing trip into a meaningful connection with Maya history.

It’s especially suitable for those who want to see the highlights without the stress of planning or dealing with large crowds. Keep in mind, it’s a full day—so if you’re a light sleeper or dislike early mornings, prepare accordingly.

In the end, this tour delivers a memorable day that combines history, nature, and good company—a solid choice for travelers eager to make the most of their time in the Yucatán.

FAQs

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Viva Mexico 5 Av. Nte. 38 in Playa del Carmen, with pickup offered from your hotel.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is scheduled for 7:00 am, allowing for an early start to beat crowds and the midday heat.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, from pickup to return.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included, with vegetarian options available upon request. Drinks are not included if you select the basic package.

What is the group size?
Limited to about 15-18 travelers, making it more personalized and less overwhelming than larger tours.

What should I bring?
Sports shoes or sandals, swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, biodegradable sunscreen, mosquito repellent, camera, and cash for tips or souvenirs.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Moderate fitness is recommended; you’ll be walking and climbing ruins, but the sites are accessible for most visitors.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the price, including Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and the cenote.

What if the weather is bad?
Tour cancellations due to poor weather are rare, but if it happens, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour truly offers a rewarding way to connect with the ancient Maya world while enjoying the natural beauty of the Yucatán. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, it provides a well-rounded, memorable experience.