Description

This tour combines a must-see Chichen Itza ruins, with the archaeological site of Ek Balam, as well as a trip to a unique cenote. In combination this gives you the chance to learn about the fascinating heritage and lifestyle of Mayans, admire the incredible decoration of temples and plazas and unique sculptures which have surprised archaeologists and also descend into an impressive cenote to enjoy beautiful rock formations and admire the unique wildlife around you. A truly unforgettable day!

What is a Cenote?

Cenotes are flooded caverns or underground river systems formed by dissolution of rock where you find amazing stalactites, stalagmites, and marine fossils. Cenote water is often very clear, as the water comes from rain water filtered slowly through the ground and therefore contains very little suspended particle matter. Cenotes are unique to Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya as the area has over 3,000 of them! Our tours select the best and take you to these!

• Meaning: Chichen Itza means ¨at the mouth of the well of Itza
• Size: These Mayan ruins covers an area of 6.5 sq km (2.5 sq miles). Chichen Itza was one of the largest Mayan cities and it was likely to have been one of the mythical great cities and the capital of two empires.
• Must see Chichen Itza´s most impressive sights and structures are located in the central zone. Here you´ll find the Juego de Pelota or Ball Court, several platforms, temples, and the spectacular Pyramid of Kukulkan (one of the new Seven Wonders of the Word). It is a massive 25 meter or 80 feet high stone representation of the Maya calendar. Toltec warriors are represented in the carvings around the doorway at the top of El Castillo.
• Visitors: over 1.2 million people per year.

• From the Preclassic until the Postclassic period, it was the seat of a Mayan kingdom
• The site is noted for the preservation of the plaster on the tomb of Ukit-Kan-Lek-Tok, a king buried in the side of the largest pyramid
• At its height from 770 to 840 CE, Ek’ Balam provides a rich resource of information for understanding northern Classic cities, due to the poor preservation of many other notable northern Maya sites (e.g. Coba, Izamal, and Edzna)

• Hotel pick up approx. 7:00 – 7:30 a.m., Tour returns between 8:00 – 8:30 p.m.
• Round trip Transportation in air conditioned van
• Children 3 and under are free for this tour but must be sat in an adults lap
• Entrance to the Chichen Itza ruin
• Entrance to Cenote IK´KIL
• Free time in the ruin
• Certificated guide in English & Spanish
• Lunch buffet (not drinks)
• Entrance to Ek Balam
• You will receive your tour confirmation within 24 hours of purchase

Any questions you have, please send to [email protected] and one of our team will be happy to assist!