Chichen Itza, Cenote and Ek Balam Tour with Lunch from Valladolid
Active
10h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit with us the New World Wonder Chichen Itza, a refreshing open cenote with lunch and the astonishingly beautiful archaeological site of Ek Balam in one day. Skip the line access to the sites.
Learn more about two of the most important ancient Mayan cities in Yucatan with our local guides in a small, personalized group.
You won't regret it!
Available options
Chichen Itza, Cenote and Ek Balam Tour with Lunch from Valladolid
Pickup included
What's included
Drinks at lunch are not included. Please refill your bottle with purified water we ́ll have available.
Entrance cenote
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Pro Guide EN Chichen Itza and Ek Balam
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After pick-up in Valladolid and a 45min drive we ́ll start the day with a guided visit to the Maya-Toltec site of Chichen Itza. As we leave early, we’ll be at the archaeological site before the crowds arrive, and we ́ll avoid the heat.
A professional certified guide will explain to you this New World Wonder (+ - 1h30min) with the largest ball court in Mesoamerica, the Temple of the Warriors, the Observatory, the nunnery palace, and the Kukulkan temple.
The Mayans are known for their astronomical knowledge. Not a telescope, but the windows in the Caracol point in the cardinal and subcardinal directions and are believed to enable the tracking of the movement of Venus, the Pleiades, the sun, the moon, and other celestial events.
After the guided tour, you ́ll have enough free time to enjoy the place and take some nice pictures.
2
Cenote
A well-deserved refreshing dip in a remote open cenote will be more than satisfying on our next stop. If you want, you can take the swing rope to jump in IT or take a moment to just relax.
Followed by an included lunch.
After lunch there is a 30min drive to Ek Balam
3
Ek Balam, or ‘Black Jaguar’ is very different to Chichen Itza and at least as beautiful.
IT is one of the most important archaeological sites of Yucatan and one you can still climb.
Recently, they founded an 80% intact stucco façade of the mausoleum of Ukit Kan Le’k Tok, the most important Maya ruler of Ek Balam, with more than 7,000 pieces of offerings dating back to the 8th century. Impressive! A professional, certified guide will tell you about its history.
After the visit of the site there is a 30min drive back to Valladolid. Back at about 5:30pm.
What's not included
Tips
Chichen Itza for foreigners
Ek Balam for foreigners
Chichen Itza for Mexicans
Ek Balam for Mexicans
Chichen Itza children DE 3 to 12 years
Ek Balam children DE 3 to 12 years
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
5 reviews
5★
3
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
15 reviews
5★
14
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Valladolid, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan
Valladolid, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan offer a unique blend of rich Mayan history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. From the colonial charm of Valladolid to the turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya and the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza, this region is a treasure trove of experiences for travelers.
Top Attractions
Chichen Itza
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is a stunning Mayan archaeological site featuring the iconic El Castillo pyramid, the Great Ball Court, and the Sacred Cenote.
Historical
Half to full day
Moderate ($25-$30 USD for foreigners, including guide fees)
Cenote Ik Kil
A beautiful open cenote with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The cenote is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a refreshing break from the heat.
Nature
1-2 hours
Moderate ($5-$10 USD)
Valladolid Historic Center
The historic center of Valladolid features colonial architecture, charming streets, and important landmarks such as the Cathedral of San Gervasio and the Casa de los Venados.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore, some museums may have entry fees
Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya is a stretch of Caribbean coastline known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and luxury resorts. Popular destinations include Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun.
Beach
Full day or overnight
Varies widely, from budget-friendly to luxury
Ek Balam
A lesser-known Mayan archaeological site near Valladolid, Ek Balam offers a more intimate and less crowded experience compared to Chichen Itza. The site features the impressive Acropolis and the Oval Palace.
Historical
Half to full day
Moderate ($7-$10 USD for foreigners, including guide fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cochinita Pibil
Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and citrus, wrapped in banana leaves. It's tender, flavorful, and a must-try dish in the Yucatan.
Main Course
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Panuchos
Fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and habanero sauce. A popular street food in the Yucatan.
Snack
Contains chicken, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Salbutes
Similar to panuchos, but the tortilla is not stuffed. Topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, avocado, and habanero sauce.
Snack
Contains chicken, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Marquesitas
A crispy, rolled crepe filled with sweetened condensed milk and often topped with Nutella or other sweet toppings. A popular street snack in the Yucatan.
Dessert
Vegetarian-friendly, but may contain dairy.
Popular Activities
Cenote diving
Jungle trekking
Whale shark snorkeling
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Yoga retreats
Visiting Mayan ruins
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The crowds are higher during this period, especially around holidays.
22-30°C
72-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (especially in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) or GMT-5
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
The Yucatan is generally a safe destination for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise common sense and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Getting there
By air
- Cancun International Airport • 160 km from Valladolid
- Mérida International Airport • 100 km from Valladolid
By bus
Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Mérida
Getting around
Public transport
ADO buses are comfortable and reliable, connecting Valladolid with other destinations in the Yucatan and Riviera Maya.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Valladolid Historic Center
Cenote Zone
Riviera Maya Coastline
Day trips
Río Lagartos
100 km from Valladolid • Full day
A picturesque fishing village known for its flamingo-filled lagoons, pink waters, and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, birdwatching, and mud baths.
Isla Holbox
180 km from Valladolid • Overnight
A car-free island known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and wildlife, including whale sharks and sea turtles. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Tulum
150 km from Valladolid • Full day or overnight
A coastal town known for its stunning Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, relax on the beach, and enjoy the town's bohemian atmosphere.
Festivals
Festival de Valladolid • May
Hanal Pixan • November 1st and 2nd
Pro tips
- Visit Chichen Itza early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
- Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture.
- Explore the cenotes, as they offer a unique and refreshing experience.
- Try local street food, such as panuchos, salbutes, and marquesitas.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
