Visit Ek Balam to explore the Mesoamerican agricultural system, swim in an amazing cenote, and discover the archaeological site of Ek Balam. Select a private or a shared tour and enjoy the perfect balance of culture and nature with this full-day ecotour.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Private group
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 12.5 hours
- Starting time 6:30 AM
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English, Spanish
- Pickup included
- Your hotel in central Merida.
Experience
Highlights
- Bike to a milpa plantation and learn about local farming
- Marvel at the amazing Cenote Xcanche and swim in its blue waters
- Discover the archaeological site of Ek Balam and enjoy amazing views from the pyramids
Full description
Discover fascinating Mayan culture and history on a full-day ecotour from Mérida. Start with pickup at 6:30 AM and drive to Ek Balam, a village where Mayan is the most-spoken language. Enjoy a delicious breakfast to build your strength, before setting out on a bike ride to explore local farming practices.
Visit a milpa, a Mesoamerican crop growing system, accompanied by a local guide. Taste traditional pozole and sweets made from regional crops, as you learn about the Mesoamerican agricultural system. Enter the k'áax, or jungle, to learn about traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and trees used in the construction of houses.
Afterwards, start the 2-kilometer journey by bicycle or tuk-tuk through the jungle to get to Cenote Xcanche. Refresh yourself in the cool waters and appreciate the biodiversity around the crystal clear cenote. Before leaving, enjoy a traditional Yucatecan lunch at the cooperative’s restaurant.
The final stop on the tour is at the Ek Balam archeological site, famous for its stunning Mayan architecture and its importance in pre-Hispanic times. Admire the incredible views from the top of the pyramids. Return to Merida, where you’ll be dropped off at approximately 7 PM.
Includes
- Full-day tour
- Pickup and drop-off in Mérida
- Guide
- Cenote Xcanche entry
- Ek Balam archaeological site entry
- Breakfast and lunch with natural drinks
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities
Not suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
COVID-19 precautions
Customers must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
- Customers must fill out a travel information form
- Customers will get a mandatory temperature check
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Important information
Know before you go
- This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility