Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town in Punta Sam, Mexico
Punta Sam, Mexico

Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town

Outty Ranking 48 5.0 · 3 traveler reviews10 hoursFrom $169
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Outty Ranking

48/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 3 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town worth booking?

Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town is a 10-hour experience in Punta Sam, Mexico, from $169 per person. It scores 48 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 3 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
48 / 100
Rating
5/5 (3)
Duration
10 hours
From
$169 per person

Come and experience the Mayan culture with one of our most comprehensive tours, where you'll explore the Ek Balam archaeological site and even have the opportunity to climb the main pyramid and admire the view of the valley. Next, we'll take you to a cenote that's breathtakingly beautiful. Last but not least, learn about Mexican history in this colonial city.

What you get

    About this experience

    Come and experience the Mayan culture with one of our most comprehensive tours, where you'll explore the Ek Balam archaeological site and even have the opportunity to climb the main pyramid and admire the view of the valley. Next, we'll take you to a cenote that's breathtakingly beautiful. Last but not least, learn about Mexican history in this colonial city.

    What's included

    Included

    • Bottled water
    • Bilingual certified guide
    • Lunch
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Life vest for the cenote

    Not included

    • Tips and souvenirs
    • Drinks at the restaurant
    • Government fees

    What you'll see and do

    1. Ek Balam

      Ek´Balam (Jaguar Star) is a Mayan city that had its maximum development during the Late Classic / Terminal (600-850 / 900 AD) and possibly hosted the "Tlalol" kingdom. The first known king of Ek´Balam is Ukit Kan Le´t Tok (the father of the four flint fronts) who was the builder of most of the sumptuous palace that we now know as Acropolis and many other works. Likewise, he was the promoter of technical and cultural advances, as well as of architectural and decorative wealth, whose best example is Structure 35 Sub, located inside the Acropolis and known as Sak Xok Nahh (white house of reading ), which served as a grave for Ukit Kan Le´t Tok, who was buried with a rich offering made up of more than 7,000 pieces such as ceramic vessels, shell objects, snail and tumbaga.

      120 minutes here

    2. Hacienda Oxman Cenote

      Cenote Oxman is a charming semi-open cenote, famous for its relaxed atmosphere and turquoise waters that invite visitors to enjoy a day of rest and fun. This cenote is ideal for those seeking a more intimate and less crowded experience, away from the tourist bustle of other more popular destinations. Its natural beauty and serene surroundings make it a perfect haven for swimming, taking photographs, and enjoying nature at its finest. Oxman is a place where visitors can connect with their environment, surrounded by lush vegetation and a peaceful atmosphere.

      180 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Valladolid, Yucatan, Mexico

      Valladolid is one of Mexico's "Pueblos Mágicos" (Magical Towns) and also one of the most charming and beautiful cities on the Yucatán Peninsula. Filled with pastel-colored colonial houses, a spectacular main square, several museums to visit, and even cenotes within the city center itself, it's a place well worth exploring.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 120 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, fr, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon, Wed, Fri
    Group size
    Up to 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Viajes Tours Maya

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town in Punta Sam, photo 2Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town in Punta Sam, photo 3Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town in Punta Sam, photo 4Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town in Punta Sam, photo 5Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town in Punta Sam, photo 6Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town in Punta Sam, photo 7

    Traveler reviews

    3 verified traveler reviews for Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    hallm821 · December 2025

    Great tour. Jose did a great job

    Great tour organized by Jose for our group of 10 people. He was great with inquiries and addition. Prompt responses all the time. The guide was very knowledgeable with Mayan culture and history, made the day very memorable.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your comments really appreciate and more than happy that you enjoy this journey with us Your review help us to continue with that line to success Any time you need us we are here for you Kind regards,

    via Tripadvisor

    Cattravels128 · April 2022

    22nd Anniversary

    The tour was small enough we didn't worry about getting separated from our group and the time we arrived at Chichen Itza ( quite early ) let us get in and out before the heat and crowds. The Cenota Maya is an absolute must see!!! It seems that a lot of destinations have caves to tour, but this one is massive and well worth the drive! The Rappelling and ziplining were amazing and the professional photos that were taken for us show just how impressive this location is!!! Our tour guide Israel and driver Gustavo went out of their way to ensure we were safe, comfortable, and that we all had a good time. Israel was very informative both historically and in general and he was also quite funny and entertaining for the entire day. He also engaged several vendors who gave us demonstrations on how they paint masks, negotiate prices, and identify the stones that they were selling. Despite the roads being quite bad, Gustavo managed to get us to Chichen Itza and Cenote Maya safely. They both did a great job and we appreciated them very much!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your comments, I'm so glad to hear that you have a great time and that you love the beauties of our Caribbean.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    10 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Wed, Fri
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Viajes Tours Maya, who run 25 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 45.9.

    See everything Viajes Tours Maya runs

    Why this scores 48

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)55
    Review evidence (18% weight)21
    Booking momentum (14% weight)12
    Value for money (12% weight)51
    Listing quality (10% weight)68
    Local standing (8% weight)62
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Punta Sam.

    How much does Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town cost?

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    Prices start at $169 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Punta Sam usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town take?

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    Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Punta Sam is not rushed.

    Is Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 48 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 3 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Punta Sam, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town?

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    Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Punta Sam can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Punta Sam and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Punta Sam within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Punta Sam?

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    On Outty we rank every Punta Sam experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Discover Mayan Magic: Chichén Itzá, Cenote, and Valladolid, Family Snorkeling Cancun with transportation, Hidden Cenote Swim & ATV Jungle Adventure with Transportation. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Punta Sam?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Punta Sam?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town?

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    Included: Bottled water; Bilingual certified guide; Lunch; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Life vest for the cenote. Not included: Tips and souvenirs; Drinks at the restaurant; and Government fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 132 listed pickup locations in and around Punta Sam. Be ready about 120 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town offered in?

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    It is offered in English, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Punta Sam. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Ek Balam Cenote and Colonial Town.

    Pick your date