Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 101 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid worth booking?
Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid is a 6-hour experience in Cozumel, Mexico, from $139 per person. It scores 80 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 101 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 80 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (101)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $139 per person
Unearth the Secrets of Ek Balam and ascend the Majestic Main Temple at this Extraordinary Archaeological Site. Tucked away in the lush jungles of the Yucatan peninsula, Ek Balam awaits, boasting its status as one of the
What you get
About this experience
Unearth the Secrets of Ek Balam and ascend the Majestic Main Temple at this Extraordinary Archaeological Site. Tucked away in the lush jungles of the Yucatan peninsula, Ek Balam awaits, boasting its status as one of the most stunning and remarkably preserved Mayan cities. Our expert guide will lead the way, unveiling the mysteries of Mayan culture, showcasing the majestic structures, and deciphering the intricate glyphs adorning the ancient walls of this once thriving metropolis. A highlight of the tour is ascending the Acropolis, the tallest temple of the site. Find refreshment in the crystal-clear waters of a charming open-air cenote before indulging in a delectable regional meal. Finally, explore the colonial city of Valladolid, a captivating place where art and architecture harmoniously blend, showcasing pastel-colored buildings and historic churches.
What's included
Included
- Professional, bilingual, attentive guide.
- Round-trip transportation from most hotels in Riviera Maya (available on Thursday and Sunday).
- Delectable lunch featuring iconic delicacies from the region.
- Round-trip transportation from most hotels in Cancun (available on Frida yonly).
- Bottled water, soft drinks, and beer
- Umbrellas.
Not included
- Gratuities
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Travel with us to one of the best-kept secrets of the Mayan world. Hidden in the jungle of the Yucatan peninsula, Ek Balam is considered one of the most beautiful, discovered Mayan cities and definitely one of the best preserved. On this adventure, our expert guide will explain all about the Mayan culture, the various majestic structures, and the impressive glyph that decorate the ancient walls of this once-influential metropolis. A highlight of the visit is climbing the Acropolis from where on a clear day you can see as far as the pyramids of Cobá and Chichén Itzá.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Welcome Shaman ceremony, obsidian workshop, mezcal and tequila tasting. Find refreshment in the crystal-clear waters of a charming open-air cenote before indulging in a delectable regional meal.
150 minutes here
Valladolid
You will visit the colonial city of Valladolid, a charming place where art and architecture are recognized for its beautiful buildings in pastel colors and old historical churches.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 180 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Thu, Fri, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Cancun Adventures
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The pickup time depends on your hotel's location.
- Guests who wish to participate must be relatively fit and able to swim.
- Guests must meet a minimum height requirement of 3.9 feet (1.20 meters).
- GoPro devices, tablets, and selfie sticks are subject to fees payable directly at the box office in the Ek Balam Ruins. Professional photography equipment and drones are strictly prohibited.
- Please note that a $35 USD fee will be charged directly at the entrance to Ek Balam.
- Not recommended for guests with limited mobility.
- Minimum age is 6
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 100 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Value for money
3 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
100 verified traveler reviews for Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Unexpectedly Awesome
Cancun Adventures did an amazing job of keeping our small group entertained, educated and corralled. Ek-Balum was the compromise sinc Chichen Itza was closed, and it was such a treat. Our guide was knowledgeable, funny and patient taking us to the top of the temple and through so many buildings— keeping us ahead of a rain storm that would have cut our visit short. The cenote at Ki’ichpam Xunaan was pure heaven. We paid our respects to the well stocked gift shop, which thankfully took cards. Our last stop at Villadolid offered more shopping and photo ops. We only saw around the main square but found more souvenirs there, too!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We’re thrilled to hear that what started as an unexpected change turned into such an awesome experience for your group. Ek Balam truly is a hidden gem, and we’re so glad you enjoyed exploring the site, climbing the temple, and discovering its fascinating history alongside our guide. It’s wonderful to hear that their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness helped keep the experience both engaging and seamless — even while staying ahead of the rainstorm! We’re also delighted that you loved the cenote at Ki’ichpam Xunaan. There’s something incredibly special about those peaceful crystal-clear waters, and we’re happy it became such a highlight of your day. Ending the adventure with time in Valladolid for shopping and photos sounds like the perfect finish. Thank you again for choosing Cancun Adventures and for sharing such thoughtful feedback. We hope to welcome you back soon for another unforgettable adventure in the Riviera Maya! Cancun Adventures
via Tripadvisor
Great time at Ek Balam
Had a great time, Gato was incredibly knowledgeable!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We’re delighted to hear you had such a great time exploring Ek Balam, the cenote, and Valladolid. Gato will be incredibly happy to know his knowledge and passion helped make your adventure even more memorable. Learning about the rich history and culture of the Mayan world becomes even more special with guides who truly love what they do, and we’re so glad you enjoyed the experience. Thank you again for choosing Cancun Adventures. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back soon for another unforgettable journey through the Riviera Maya! Cancun Adventures
via Tripadvisor
Unforgetable daytrip worth every dime
Great trip to amazing locations. Be aware of the two-hour travel back and forth, but it is definitely worth it. The Ek Balam ruins are in beautiful condition, nothing is crowded, and it is a totally relaxed tour. There are a lot of shady spots all around, so you don't get burnt by the sun all the time. At the cenote, the mandatory life vest is a little annoying for a passionate diver, but understandable for safety reasons, of course. The guide was really gifted and obviously enjoyed his job. I highly recommend this trip!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such an unforgettable day exploring Ek Balam, the cenote, and Valladolid. It’s great to know you enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, beautiful ruins, and the overall experience. We also appreciate your understanding regarding the safety measures at the cenote. Our guide will be very happy to hear your kind words—we’ll be sure to share them with the team. Thank you for your recommendation, and we hope to welcome you back soon for another unforgettable adventure! Warm regards, Cancun Adventures
via Tripadvisor
Awesome tour!
Awesome experience! Gato was our guide and he was fantastic. I highly recommend this tour if you want a little taste of everything: culture, nature, etc.
Response from the operator: Hi there! 😄🌿 Thank you for your awesome review! We’re so happy to hear you had such a great experience and enjoyed the perfect mix of culture and nature Gato will be thrilled to know he made the day so special for you We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back again soon for another adventure!
via Tripadvisor
Amazing Experience
Thank you Gato & Pancheco for the great day!
Response from the operator: Hi there! 😄 Thank you for your great review! We’re so happy to hear you had an amazing experience Gato and Pancheco will be thrilled to know they made your day so special We hope to welcome you back again soon for another adventure!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Thu, Fri, Sun
- Price range
- $139 to $159
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 35
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 80
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cozumel.
How much does Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid cost?
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Prices start at $139 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cozumel 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, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid take?
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Plan for about 6 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 Cozumel is not rushed.
Is Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 80 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 101 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cozumel, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid?
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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, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid?
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Around 35 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 Cozumel 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 Cozumel and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Ek Balam, Mayan Cenote and Valladolid 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 Cozumel 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 Cozumel?
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On Outty we rank every Cozumel experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Jade Caverns and Mayan Village Cozumel ATV TOUR, Buggy, Beach & Snorkel Blast, ATV 4×4+Cenote+Snorkeling+Beach Club+ Lunch+Sabores de Cozumel. 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 Cozumel?
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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 Cozumel?
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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.
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