Ek Balam and Cenote Off the Beaten Path Experience from Mérida

9 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

This experience is designed for travelers looking to go beyond Yucatán’s most famous archaeological sites and discover a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path side of the region. Explore a lesser-known Maya city and its impressive acropolis, visit a special cenote, and enjoy traditional Yucatecan cuisine along the way.

We operate this experience with the same high standards of quality, service, safety, and attention to detail that characterize Aventura en el Mayab. We believe that the best experiences are not only about the places you visit, but also about how you experience them.

This tour is currently offered primarily in small groups, allowing for a more personal, relaxed, and genuine experience.

We also invite you to explore other experiences in Yucatán, consistently among the top-rated experiences on the platforms where we operate.

What's Included

Round-trip transportation from Mérida
Traditional Yucatecan lunch with lomitos, pibil chicken, chaya & cheese empanadas, rice, beans, salad, spaghetti and dessert. Beverages not included.
Guided tour inside the archaeological site with an official guide
Swimming masks (covering the eyes and nose) and life jackets are provided. Snorkel tubes are not provided.
Admission to the Cenote
Admission to the Ek Balam archaeological site.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Parque de Santa Ana

We usually park on Calle 47, at the corner of Calle 60, by Parque Santa Ana. You’ll be able to see the vans there, and our guides will be waiting and keeping an eye out for you.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 9 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Step off the beaten path and discover Ek Balam, one of Yucatán’s fascinating lesser-visited Mayan archaeological sites. Explore this ancient city with a knowledgeable local guide and learn about its history, architecture, beliefs, and stories. Climb and explore the impressive Acropolis, the heart of the ancient city, and admire its remarkable monumental structures and intricate stucco details. With fewer crowds than Yucatán’s better-known archaeological sites, Ek Balam offers a more relaxed and authentic experience, allowing you to truly appreciate the site and its unique character. This guided visit is perfect for travelers looking to go beyond the usual tourist routes and discover a different side of the ancient Maya and Yucatán. *ENTRANCE TICKET NOT INCLUDED

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Cenote Palomitas

    Explore a Majestic Underground Cenote After exploring Ek Balam, venture into a spectacular underground cenote hidden beneath the Yucatecan jungle. Step inside a vast natural cavern surrounded by impressive mineral formations, towering rock formations, and crystal-clear waters. This cenote is considered by many to be one of the most majestic cenotes in Yucatán, yet it remains relatively little visited compared with the better-known cenotes in th area. Its impressive scale and natural beauty create a truly memorable experience and offer a chance to discover one of the region’s more remarkable underground landscapes away from the usual tourist crowds.

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Cenote Palomitas

    Enjoy a Traditional Yucatecan Lunch Enjoy a delicious lunch at the restaurant located at the same cenote. The meal features traditional Yucatecan flavors and locally inspired dishes prepared with fresh, regional ingredients. A variety of options can be adapted to accommodate different dietary preferences and restrictions, including vegetarian and other special dietary needs.

    40 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Aventura en el Mayab

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Archaeology Tours
Car Tours
Small Group
Additional fees

Cancellation Policy

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

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