Ek Balam Private Tour with Cenote – All-Inclusive Experience

Playa del Carmen , Mexico

Ek Balam Private Tour with Cenote – All-Inclusive Experience

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(12 reviews)

6h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the fascinating Ek Balam ruins with your private certified archaeological guide. Explore the ancient city at your own pace, avoid the crowds, and even climb the main pyramid for breathtaking jungle views—something you can’t do at most sites in the region.

Afterward, cool off with a refreshing swim in Cenote Xcanche, surrounded by nature and perfect for a relaxing dip.

Your day continues with a delicious à la carte lunch at a local Mexican restaurant before returning in the comfort of your private transportation.

This exclusive all-inclusive private tour is operated by an award-winning company with 10+ years of excellence, ensuring a seamless, safe, and truly memorable experience.

Available options

Private Van 2

Just you, your guide & driver: Pick up from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. We advise 6:30am pick up to avoid crowds and heat.
<br/>Pickup included

Private Van 3

Just you, your guide & driver: Pick up from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. We advise 6:30am pick up to avoid crowds and heat.
<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fees to Ek Balam ruins

Lunch at a local Mexican restaurant with one meal a la carte

Water and sodas provided in the cooler of the van

All taxes and commissions

Cenote entrance fee and life vest. Bike to reach the cenote.

Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or Airbnb by private air-conditioned minivan

Certified, experienced and dedicated private guide

Detailed itinerary

This tour offers an early morning pick-up to avoid the crowds and heat. You'll have a private guide who will take you on a complete visit of the Ek Balam Mayan ruins. You can explore at your own pace and climb all the pyramids, including the main Acropolis temple. Take your time and enjoy the experience. Your guide will be more than happy to help you capture some impressive pictures.

We will pick you up with a private vehicle from your hotel-rental (approx 2 hours driving).

Experience the exhilarating thrill of swimming in the breathtaking Cenote Xcanche! This incredible cenote, nestled amidst nature's beauty, can be easily reached by bike (rental included) or by car. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of this deep open-air cenote, making it the perfect oasis to cool off and relax after exploring the ruins.

For our final destination on this trip, we'll be stopping at a local restaurant in the charming town of Temozon. Here, we'll enjoy a delicious Yucatan cuisine meal, which is included in the tour.

After lunch, we'll take you back to your hotel or rental.

What's not included

Drinks at the restaurant

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

You must provide the tour operator with your hotel room number no later than 4pm the day before the tour, otherwise the tour will be cancelled. Without your room number, they will not be able to pick you up at your hotel. In case of late check in, let us know upfront and we will wait for your room number.

What to bring with you:
- Beach Towels
- Swimsuit
- Hat/sunglasses
- Sunscreen & mosquito repellent
- Cash (tips/souvenirs)
- Ruins: In case you bring a go pro camera, a video camera or a phone with a selfie stick, there is a 60 pesos per device charged at the entrance of each archeological site, to be paid in pesos (INAH tax) - Drones and tripods for video/cameras are forbidden.

No show applies 15 minutes after pick up time

About Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal city in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Mayan heritage. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class resorts to ancient ruins and vibrant nightlife.

Top Attractions

Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue)

A vibrant pedestrian street stretching over 20 blocks, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and street performers. It's the heart of Playa del Carmen's nightlife and shopping scene.

Cultural/Shopping/Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Xcaret Park

An eco-archaeological park offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural performances, and adventure activities. It's one of the most famous attractions in the Riviera Maya.

Nature/Adventure/Cultural Full day Moderate to Expensive (around $100-$150 USD)

Cenote Azul

A stunning natural sinkhole with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the jungle.

Nature/Adventure Half day Budget (around $5-$10 USD for entrance and gear rental)

Tulum Ruins

Ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking blend of history and natural beauty.

Historical/Archaeological Half day to full day Budget (around $10-$15 USD for entrance)

Musa (Museo Subacuático de Arte)

An underwater museum featuring over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged in the waters off Playa del Carmen. It's a unique snorkeling and diving experience.

Art/Nature/Adventure Half day Moderate (around $50-$80 USD for snorkeling tours)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

A traditional Yucatecan dish made with marinated pork, slow-cooked in banana leaves. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with pickled onions and habanero salsa.

Main Course Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination

Ceviche

A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's a refreshing and light dish perfect for the tropical climate.

Appetizer Gluten-free, dairy-free, can be made vegetarian with vegetables

Tacos al Pastor

Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. It's a popular street food dish with a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Street Food Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination

Panuchos

A Yucatecan specialty made with fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and habanero salsa. It's a flavorful and satisfying snack.

Appetizer Contains chicken, gluten-free if no cross-contamination

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Cenote exploration Zip-lining ATV tours Beach relaxation Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the most popular time to visit with perfect weather, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities, exploring ruins, and enjoying outdoor adventures.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution

Playa del Carmen is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Cancun International Airport • 70 km (43 miles)

By bus

ADO Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are frequent and cover most areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown (Centro) Playacar Zona Hotelera Colosio

Day trips

Cozumel

80 km (50 miles) off the coast • Full day

A beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling. It's a popular day trip from Playa del Carmen.

Tulum

60 km (37 miles) south • Half day to full day

A charming town with ancient Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and a bohemian vibe. It's a popular destination for history lovers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts.

Akumal

30 km (19 miles) south • Half day

A small coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, as well as its population of wild sea turtles. It's a great spot for snorkeling and relaxation.

Festivals

Festival of the Mayan Culture • November Playa del Carmen International Film Festival • November Carnaval de Playa del Carmen • February or March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat at popular attractions
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation to avoid scams and ensure safety
Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the authentic culture and beauty of Playa del Carmen