Mexico · Archaeology

Ek Balam Mayan City, Cenote Oxman Swim and Valladolid Colonial Experience

12 Hours Round trip from Ekbalam Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Guided visit to Ek Balam archaeological site
02 Explore plazas, structures and the acropolis of Ek Balam
03 Cultural stop with stone carving workshop and handmade tortilla tasting
04 Sample Xtabentún and receive a Mayan blessing, subject to availability
05 Regional Yucatecan buffet lunch included
06 Swim in cenote Oxman with life jacket included
07 Free time in Valladolid main square
08 See the San Servacio Cathedral area

Step beyond the beach and discover a different side of the Yucatán on a full-day journey through ancient history, living traditions and colonial charm. Visit Ek Balam with a certified bilingual guide, explore its plazas, structures and acropolis, and learn about the legacy of Ukit Kan Lek Tokʼ in one of the region’s most intriguing Mayan cities.

The experience continues with a cultural stop featuring a stone carving workshop, handmade tortilla tasting, Xtabentún tasting and a Mayan blessing, subject to availability, followed by a regional Yucatecan buffet lunch. Later, cool off with a swim in cenote Oxman, then enjoy time in Valladolid’s historic center to admire San Servacio Cathedral and stroll the main square.

Step beyond the beach and discover a different side of the Yucatán on a full-day journey through ancient history, living traditions and colonial charm.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Valladolid, Ek Balam

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Guided visit at Ek Balam Mayan city

Explore the main plazas, structures and acropolis of Ek Balam, while your certified guide explains its history, architecture and the legacy of Ukit Kan Lek Tokʼ.

Mayan cultural experience and Yucatecan buffet

Visit a cultural parador to see a stone carving workshop, taste handmade tortillas, sample Xtabentún and receive a Mayan blessing (subject to availability), followed by a regional buffet lunch (drinks not included).

Swim in cenote Oxman

Cool off in the clear, fresh waters of cenote Oxman, using life jackets included. Enjoy time to swim, float, relax, take photos and feel the energy of this ancestral water source.

Visit to Valladolid main square and San Servacio Cathedral

Walk through the historic center of Valladolid, admire the San Servacio Cathedral, and take free time in the main square for photos, sweets, ice cream or local snacks.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Ekbalam 2 cities · 12 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Roundtrip transportation in air-conditioned vehicle with traveler insurance.
Certified bilingual guide (Spanish/English), certified by the Mexican heritage authority (INAH).
Bottled water during the excursion.
Guided visit to Ek Balam archaeological site.
Entrance and swim in a cenote (cenote Oxman), with life jacket included.
Cultural stop including stone carving workshop, handmade tortilla tasting, Xtabentún tasting and Mayan blessing (subject to availability).
Regional buffet lunch (food only, drinks not included).
Visit to Valladolid main square and San Servacio Cathedral area.

What's Not Included

Drinks during the buffet lunch.
Additional beverages, snacks or personal purchases.
Lockers, towel rental or other optional services at the cenote.
Photos or video packages, if offered on site.
Gratuities for guide and driver.
Optional child safety seat (20 USD in cash if required for infants, payable on board).

Know before you go

INFANTS MUST SIT ON LAPS
INFANT SEATS AVAILABLE
Not wheelchair accessible
Not stroller accessible
Not suitable for pets
No public transportation nearby
Not recommended for people with back problems
Not recommended for people with heart conditions
Infant Seats are optional with a 20usd cash payment on board
A member of our staff will contact you to set up pick up times and instructions
A member of the staff will contact you around 12 to 24hrs prior the activity date in order to confirm exact pick up time and instructions