Ek-balam and Cenote Private tour

  • Price:

    From: $155 USD per person

  • Duration:

    8 hours

  • Destinations:

    Ek-Balam Archaeological Zone, Natural Cenote

  • Availability:

    Monday to Saturday

  • Languages:

    English, Spanish, French

  • Tansfer:

    Pick up and Transfer included in tour

  • City Served:

    Tulum, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Cancun

Home / Private Tours Tulum / Ek-balam and Cenote Private tour

Description of Ek-balam and Cenote Private tour

The Ek-Balam and Cenote Private Tour combines one of the Yucatan’s most impressive yet lesser-known archaeological sites with refreshing cenote swimming in a single, well-paced day. This Ek-Balam private tour is designed for travelers seeking authentic Maya ruins with fewer crowds than Chichen Itza or Tulum. It combines the natural beauty of jungle cenotes—all with the privacy, flexibility, and personalized attention that only a private tour provides.

Carey Tours is a local agency operating in the Riviera Maya since 1994, and specializes in private experiences with certified guides who provide deep archaeological knowledge and Maya cultural context.

Exploring the ancient ruins surrounded by lush greenery in Tulum on a private tour by Carey Tours.
Ek-Balam Private tour by Carey Tours

This Ek-Balam tour focuses on the remarkably preserved stucco facades and stone carvings that make this site archaeologically unique. Ek-Balam, meaning “Black Jaguar” in Maya language, was a powerful city-state during the classic period. The centerpiece is the Acropolis, which is a massive structure where you can still climb to the summit. There you can encounter panoramic jungle views and see intricate carved angels and mythological figures rarely found at other sites.

After exploring temples, ball courts, defensive walls, and the extraordinary winged figures adorning the Acropolis, the journey continues to a nearby cenote. This cenote is a sacred natural sinkhole where you’ll swim in crystal-clear freshwater surrounded by jungle vegetation.

The tour includes private round-trip transportation, traditional Yucatecan lunch, all entrance fees, and the flexibility to adjust pacing based on your group’s climbing comfort and cenote relaxation preferences. Perfect for archaeology enthusiasts wanting less-crowded ruins, families seeking balanced culture and nature, or photographers pursuing unique Maya carvings. In essence, it´s for anyone wanting an authentic Ek-Balam tour that showcases both monumental architecture and natural beauty.

Discover Hidden Archaeological Treasures

This Ek-Balam tour offers exceptional archaeological value with significantly fewer crowds than major sites like Chichen Itza. The preserved stucco facades, intricate carvings, and climbable Acropolis provide intimate access to Maya artistry and architecture that larger sites can’t match.

Combining ruins with cenote swimming creates a balanced day that appeals to culture seekers, active families, and anyone wanting to experience authentic Maya heritage without tourist masses.

As a family-owned agency with 4,000+ satisfied guests since 1994, we know Ek-Balam’s unique value and design itineraries that maximize time with the extraordinary winged figures . This while maintaining the relaxed pace that private tours allow.

Contact us to check availability, discuss climbing requirements, or customize your Ek-Balam private tour timing and cenote options.

  • 1
    Stop 1: Hotel Pickup (6:00 AM - 6:30 AM) Private pickup from Cancun (6:00 AM), Playa del Carmen (6:30 AM), or Tulum (6:30 AM). Early departure allows arrival at Ek-Balam before heat and crowds. Your certified bilingual guide introduces Ek-Balam's history, significance of the site's stucco carvings, and cenote swimming plans during the scenic drive north through Yucatan countryside.
  • 2
    Stop 2: Ek-Balam Archaeological Zone (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) Arrive at Ek-Balam archaeological site. Begin guided exploration of this compact but impressive complex. Walk through defensive walls, ball court, and ceremonial plazas while your guide explains the city's role as a powerful independent kingdom during 600-900 AD. Learn about the site's unique preservation—many structures retain original stucco facades and detailed carvings protected under modern shelters.The highlight is climbing the Acropolis—one of few major Maya structures still accessible to visitors. Ascend the steep steps to encounter the extraordinary winged figures (often called "angels") flanking the entrance to the royal tomb. These remarkable stucco sculptures show intricate detail rarely preserved at other sites. Continue to the summit for breathtaking 360-degree jungle views. Your guide explains the symbolism, mythology, and craftsmanship that make Ek-Balam archaeologically significant beyond its smaller size.Explore at your own pace with time for photography, questions, and appreciation of the site's intimate scale. Unlike massive sites like Chichen Itza, Ek-Balam offers accessible majesty without overwhelming crowds.
  • 3
    Stop 3: Drive to Cenote (11:00 AM - 11:30 AM) Short scenic drive to nearby cenote. Your guide shares insights about local Maya communities, regional flora and fauna, and cenote significance in Maya cosmology as portals to the underworld.
  • 4
    Stop 4: Cenote Swimming & Relaxation (11:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Descend to a beautiful natural cenote surrounded by lush jungle vegetation. Swim in crystal-clear turquoise water—a refreshing contrast to the morning's archaeological exploration. The cenote features platforms for relaxing, natural light filtering through jungle canopy, and tranquil atmosphere perfect for unwinding after pyramid climbing. Excellent photo opportunities. Life vests available. This peaceful hour allows recovery from morning exertion while experiencing the natural wonders the Yucatan is famous for.
  • 5
    Stop 5: Traditional Yucatecan Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM) Authentic Yucatecan cuisine at a local restaurant. Traditional meals feature regional flavors and preparations honoring local culinary traditions. Purified water and fresh snacks available. Rest before a comfortable return journey.
  • 6
    Stop 6: Return to Hotel (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Relaxed drive back to your accommodation. Arrival times vary by location: Tulum by 3:00 PM, Playa del Carmen by 3:30 PM, Cancun by 4:00 PM.

    • With Carey Tours Riviera Maya, every Tulum private tour and Playa Del Carmen private tour begins with punctual, comfortable, and personalized transportation service.

    • We provide private hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and most areas of the Riviera Maya.
    • Additional fee applies for Cancun and Puerto Morelos pickups due to extended distance to Ek-Balam
    • If preferred, a meeting point can be arranged.

    Your pickup time will be confirmed after booking based on your hotel location and preferred schedule.

    • Private tour guide (bilingual: English/Spanish/French)
    • Private round-trip transportation from hotel
    • Entrance tickets to Ek-Balam archaeological site
    • Entrance to cenote
    • Traditional Yucatecan lunch
    • Snacks provided
    • All-day access to purified water
    • Comfortable walking shoes with good traction for pyramid climbing
    • Swimwear and towels for cenote
    • Sandals or water shoes for cenote access
    • Hat or cap for sun protection
    • Sunglasses
    • Biodegradable sunscreen (required for cenote protection)
    • Biodegradable mosquito repellent
    • Waterproof camera to capture unique stucco carvings and cenote
    • Cash for souvenirs and guide tips
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Small backpack for hands-free climbing
    • Light coverup or shirt
    From $155 USDPer person
    • Max Gests:

      10

    • Ideal for:

      Families, Groups & Friends, Couples, Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties

    Prices (per person):

    • 2 people = $250 usd per person
    • 3 people = $210 usd per person
    • 4 people = $200 usd per person
    • 5 people = $190 usd per person
    • 6 people = $175 usd per person
    • 7 people = $165 usd per person
    • 8 people = $160 usd per person
    • 9 people = $160 usd per person
    • 10 people = $155 usd per person
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    FAQs

  • 1
    Why choose Ek-Balam over Chichen Itza? Ek-Balam offers climbable pyramids (Chichen Itza prohibits climbing), remarkably preserved stucco carvings including unique winged figures, fewer crowds, and more intimate exploration of detailed Maya artistry.
  • 2
    Can we still climb the pyramid at Ek-Balam? Yes. The Acropolis remains open for climbing. Steep steps lead to the summit where you'll encounter extraordinary stucco sculptures and panoramic jungle views.
  • 3
    How does Ek-Balam compare in size to other ruins? Smaller and more compact than Chichen Itza or Coba, but what it lacks in scale it compensates with exceptional preservation, unique carvings, and accessibility without overwhelming crowds.
  • 4
    What makes the carvings special? The winged figures (often called angels) flanking the tomb entrance show intricate detail rarely found at Maya sites. Original stucco and paint survive under protective shelters—extraordinary preservation for 1,400-year-old art.
  • 5
    Is this suitable for children? Yes. The compact site size, climbable pyramid, and cenote swimming appeal to families. Children 6+ with climbing ability typically enjoy it. Climbing is optional—non-climbers can explore ground level.
  • 6
    Is climbing mandatory? No. Climbing is optional. Those not climbing can explore the ball court, defensive walls, and lower structures while others ascend. Your private guide accommodates different preferences.
  • 7
    What type of cenote will we visit? A natural jungle cenote with clear water, platforms for relaxing, and tropical vegetation. The specific cenote varies but is always chosen for beauty, accessibility, and swimming conditions.
  • 8
    How long do we spend at each location? Approximately 2 hours at Ek-Balam (including climbing), 1 hour at cenote for swimming and relaxation. Private tours allow flexibility to adjust based on your group's interests.
  • 9
    s lunch included? IYes. Traditional Yucatecan meal at local restaurants included in tour price, along with snacks and purified water throughout the day.
  • 10
    Can seniors participate? Yes. The tour adapts to comfort levels. Climbing is optional. We provide frequent breaks, shade, and flexible timing for all ages and abilities.