Discover an off the beaten path adventure: the seat of an ancient Mayan kingdom.
Ek Balam is a compact and very interesting Mayan site that shows some of the most impressive pre-Columbian architecture. It is situated among the arid jungle in the center of the Mexican State of Yucatan. Ek Ek Balam ruins are frequented only by a small fraction of the tourists that visit the other popular archaeological sites, therefore Ek Balam is not so crowded and one of the less commercialized sites around Cancun and the Riviera Maya.
During your private custom tour, your personal tour guide will provide you with a detailed explanation about the Mayan history that surrounds these magnificent buildings. One of the main highlights of Ek Balam is the main structure: The Acropolis, famous for its stone carvings and paintings. You will be able to climb this ancient temple and also other surrounding structures and stone platforms.
There are many rare stucco sculptures and carvings which are protected by thatched roofs also known as palapas. Such stucco figures are hard to find now days as they generally do not last long, as they are made out of plaster and they fade rapidly because of the rough climate and weather conditions. At Ek Balam these sculptures are very well preserved.
My Ek Balam Deluxe is the perfect off the beaten path adventure! Enjoy your time taking photos or listen carefully to the interesting facts about the main buildings. After enjoying your time at the ruins, refresh yourself by swimming in a beautiful Cenote nearby.
Enjoy a delicious Mexican style lunch and visit the Colonial town of Valladolid. You may request extra stops to your personal tour guide, according to your wishes, such as coffee or ice-cream stops or shopping for souvenirs.
We recommend adding a short Tequila Distillery Tour for just 20 USD P.P.
You may add Chichen Itza Ruins for just +75 USD P.P. These two sites are a great match creating a perfect full day tour.
FAQ:
Can you climb Ek Balam Ruins? Yes! Climbing the Mayan temples at Ek Balam is still allowed.
Can you climb Chichen Itza Ruins? No. Climbing the Mayan temples at Chichen Itza is not permitted.
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Add time saving toll roads for just +$45 USD (depending on hotel location). Tolls included with bookings of 5 or more guests.
Rates are per person in US Dollars. All entry fees are included.
Hotel pick-ups in Playa del Carmen Downtown area are included. Additional transportation charges may apply per vehicle, depending on hotel location: Corasol/Mayakoba (+$25) Maroma/Paraiso (+$55), Puerto Morelos/Petempich (+$65), Royalton/Moon Palace (+$75), Cancun (+$95), Playa Mujeres/Puerto Juarez (+$125). Tulum: Hotel Zone, Aldea Zama, Veleta (+$55).
Recommended for hotels located between Tulum and Playa del Carmen.
Tequila tasting included!
Mandatory for hotels located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Tolls are included with bookings of 5 or more participants.
Due to the early start, please check with your hotel if they are able to provide room service breakfast or a takeaway coffee. We always include welcome snacks and bottled water.
*The tour schedule is an example and will be customized according to the location of your hotel and group size. The exact pick-up time will be confirmed by email during the booking process.