Excursions & day trips

Guided tour of Ek' Balam and Valladolid with cenote and lunch

Free cancellation

Language: Spanish, English

Printed ticket only

Duration: from 4 hours to 8 hours

Entrance fees included

Guided tour

Instant confirmation

Meal included

Why you’ll love this…

You'll head into the jungle to visit what's left of the ancient Mayan city of Ek' Balam
This trip includes a swim stop at a cenote, a kind of natural freshwater pool unique to Mexico
Chocolate-making, obsidian-crafting and mezcal-tasting are all part of the agenda
The tour wraps up in Valladolid, a small, colourful town that's one of the Yucatan's prettiest parts
You'll follow an expert local guide around this patch of Mexico, so they'll give you the lowdown

What to expect

Get a close-up look at Maya history and traditions on this off-the-beaten-track tour. You'll visit the ancient Maya city of Ek' Balam – the most recent to be opened to the public – as well as Yalcoba to swim in the cenote and a stop in Valladolid.

We'll start the adventure with a guided visit of Ek' Balam, which translates as ‘Black Jaguar.' The site has more than 40 structures and its walls formed a maze, while the main pyramid, known as the Acropolis, has a well-preserved entrance surrounded by the open jaws and fangs of a jaguar. It's bigger than even El Castillo at Chichen Itzá. Best of all, you can climb to the top – which few Maya sites allow.

Afterwards, we'll head to Yalcoba where you can try your hand at chocolate-making and learn how to craft obsidian at a workshop. After a tequila and mezcal tasting you'll have time to enjoy the crystalline cenote, then tuck into a tasty buffet lunch of typical regional dishes. Lastly, we'll have a quick stop in central Valladolid, a city known for its art and architecture and a picture-perfect medley of colourful colonial buildings and historic churches.

What's included

Transport
Guide
Admission fees
Buffet
Local delicacy tasting

What to remember

There's a MXN 45.00 fee for using video cameras at the archaeological site
Order of route subject to change
Tour is guided in German
Pickups are available from Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen hotels. If you don't see the option to add a hotel for pickup, please provide the details at the checkout.
Bring biodegradable insect repellent
Bring bathing gear and sunblock
Bring suitable footwear
Not suitable for guests with reduced mobility
Drinks not included

Provider

TUI MEXICANA SA DE CV

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 2 days before the experience begins.

What people say about this experience

Excellent

4.6 /5

Based on 11 reviews from verified customers

Review categories

Safety

4.6/5

Staff

4.6/5

Value for money

4.3/5

Service

4.6/5

M
Miss Truth
Verified booking
4.2
24 November 2025
Travelled with family
Really good day, from a historical perspective with enough time at ek balam, enough drinks were offered. Overall the day is far too long, you spent too long at the cenote and I don't know how you can say a trip to Valloid when we literally spent 30mins there! So much time was wasted waiting for 2 buses to be squeezed into one, which ruined the whole tripped before we even started. Initially there was enough room for everyone to have space, but then we were crammed in like sardines.
E
Elisa
Verified booking
3.8
17 June 2024
Travelled as a couple
Ek Balam is an underrated beautiful gem that is absolutely worth seeing. The guide was kind and knowledgeable, kept us fed and refreshed with drinks and snacks. The bus was small and uncomfortable with little room for the legs for such a long journey. We didn't see the cenote because it was election day, but it was something guides knew in advance, could have planned an alternative instead. Had lunch in a different restaurant as a consequence and food was really poor.
N
Nick
Verified booking
5
27 April 2024
Travelled with family
Fantastic experience. Learnt a lot about the culture and history of the Mayans and Mexicans. The group was a good size, about 10 people plus guide. Good transportation. Very informative guide. Good refreshments and great tour of the Mayan Temple at Ek Balaam and a great swim and meal at the cenote. What an experience. A lot of travel, probably for hours on the coach but such a unique and memorable experience.
E
Emma and Matt
Verified booking
5
22 March 2024
Travelled as a couple
All was good, didn't get to do chocolate making or obsidian workshop as advertised
M
Mike
Verified booking
5
27 February 2024
Travelled as a couple
Ek Balam is a fantastic experience. The early start to the excursion is worth it to be one of the first groups in to the site to climb the pyramid. Beautiful views from the top of Ek Balam. The cenotes swim is good and the surrounding shops, tequila tasting and buffet were good. Overall a great experience if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of Chicinitza
T
The Jays
Verified booking
5
17 January 2024
Travelled as a couple
Am excellent day had by all ! Despite an early start really grateful that we did get there early as we virtually had the place to ourselves! Only when we left the place was itbeginning to fill up..so thank Tui! Loved the cenote venue and meal and the last stop at Valladalod where we got to see,an authentic Mexican town. Our guide Chang was excellent very informative and kept us safe ..thank you Chang! Thoroughly recommend the day to anyone thinking about going. Ps left hotel at 0650 got back 545

Attractions & guided tours

Tour of Chichen Itza’s Maya ruins and Cenote Tsukán with lunch

A duo of Mexican delights await on this full day tour from Cancun. The adventure begins at the break of dawn with a journey to experience the wonder of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO-listed ancient Maya city. Then, wind down with a swim in a natural underground cenote cave. Hugo, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The early start is worth it – we'll arrive first thing in the morning to experience the magic of the ruins in the soft sunlight and beat the heat'.A guided tour of the ruined city reveals the stories of this remarkable site. It's not hard to imagine the daily lives of the community that lived here and built these impressive monuments. After the guided tour, enjoy free time to make the most of exploring this archaeological treasure trove as you wish. Hugo adds, ‘This ancient city isn't just about admiring the grandeur of El Castillo, but also about feeling the pulse of the Maya civilization that thrived here centuries ago. Don't miss the Great Ball Court—imagine the echoes of the past as players competed in this very spot.'Next, you'll be whisked away to Cenote Tsukán. Cenotes are believed by the Maya to be portals to the underworld, and they are revered in traditional culture. Here, you will plunge into the limpid waters, participate in a traditional ceremony and feel your senses awaken in glorious natural surroundings. Afterwards, you'll enjoy a tasty local lunch, savouring the flavours of regional cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

free cancellation

Available in:

de, es, da, en, fi, +4 fr, nl, pl, sv

Activities

Tulum, cenote swim, turtle snorkelling and beach club combo tour

Exploring Mexico just got a whole lot easier. On this full day adventure, you'll tick off no less than four different activities. Start with a guided visit of the archaeological site of Tulum, then head to a cenote for a swim. Next, it's off to Akumal for a spot of snorkelling. Round off your day with lunch at a beach club. Carmen, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The most photographed structure in the archaeological site is the Castillo, which is perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The Castillo might be the most famous, but there are plenty of other ancient Mayan ruins to explore, such as the Temple of the Descending God and the Temple of the Frescoes.'The marvels of the Mayan culture will be revealed on your guided tour around Tulum. You'll learn about it's past as a walled city, and its former role as a trading hub. After the tour you'll have free time to explore at your leisure. Next, prepare to be dazzled by colours at an ancient Mayan cenote, a natural cave with a freshwater pool fed by underground water sources and considered sacred by the Mayans.After a cooling swim, we'll head for the picturesque seaside community of Akumal, known for its laid-back atmosphere, natural beauty, and abundant marine life. With its intriguing underwater world, Akumal offers one of the best snorkelling experiences in the Riviera Maya. Encounter an array of tropical fish, corals, and perhaps even sea turtles. To complete your day, unwind and indulge in a tasty meal at a nearby beach club.

free cancellation

Available in:

es, en

Excursions & day trips

Guided tour of Tulum and visit to a modern Maya community

Exploring ancient ruins and swimming in underground caves make this an action-packed morning of adventure. A guided tour of one of Mexico's most important historical sites is followed by a visit to a traditional Mayan community. What's more, you'll get the chance to take a refreshing dip in a cenote too.

free cancellation

Available in:

de, es, da, en, fi, +5 fr, nl, no, pl, sv

Activities

Isla Mujeres adults-only cruise with shared golf cart tour

Basking in the Caribbean Sea, Isla Mujeres boasts an enviable position on the second longest reef system in the world, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Maria, one of our expert local guides, says, 'It's a brilliant spot for snorkelling amid those dazzling Caribbean colours - white sand and aquamarine sea.' This serene adults-only boat trip will give you a fresh perspective of Mexico while indulging in all the little luxuries that make holidays special. From the moment you step onto our luxury catamaran, you're greeted with a welcome drink to set the tone for this journey of pure bliss.After setting sail, we'll glide over the sparkling waves while you soak up panoramic views of Mexico's coastline as we head towards a secluded cove. All beverages - water, soft drinks, beer & other selected drinks – are included, ensuring your thirst is quenched throughout. If you crave some action, snorkelling equipment is provided for swim stops and at the beach club where you can also relax on Balinese sunbeds.Then it's time to tantalise your taste buds with our premium grill lunch buffet served at the exclusive Beach Club Amazonas. The live DJ sets the mood as you savour mouth-wateringly tasty dishes. After lunch, take a spin with a 50-minute shared golf car ride exploring Isla Mujeres' downtown area. To top off this unforgettable experience, unwind with cocktails at the beach club bar or engage in some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.

free cancellation

Available in:

Excursions & day trips

Catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres with beach club visit and brunch

Set a course for the high life on this luxury catamaran cruise to Cancun's playground, Isla Mujeres. It's VIP all the way on this daytrip. You'll begin with a dedicated TUI check-in to board a brand-new catamaran that'll whisk you away to the island, just off Cancun's coastline. Stretch out and relax in the comfort of this boat, complete with an open bar. En route to Isla Mujeres, your crew will drop anchor at an exclusive snorkelling spot. The corals here are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest of its kind in the world, stretching from Mexico to Honduras – that's over 700 miles. Dive in for a swim or snorkel (equipment is provided) to look for resident sea turtles, rays and tropical fish.Once you've towelled off, you'll dock at the northwestern tip of Isla Mujeres and head to Zama Beach Club. There's an area reserved for your group here, making it feel like your own private Caribbean retreat. Swap the sea for a freshwater dip in the two pools, relax on the sunbeds and feast on fresh Mexican fare at an exclusive brunch. After you've finished splashing, eating or lounging at the club, the crew of the catamaran will sail you back to the mainland.There are two ways to enjoy this trip:Adults-only – available on Tuesdays, if you're after a more laid-back, grown-up vibe. Family-friendly – available on Saturdays, great for families with kids to enjoy the fun together.

free cancellation

Available in:

es, en

Activities

Riviera Maya Day of the Dead Celebrations with dinner

Celebrate like a local on Mexico's biggest and most vibrant holiday with this Day of the Dead outing. You'll dive into ancient traditions, and get a memorable glimpse into one of Mexico's most significant cultural events. Lucas, one of our local expert guides, says, ‘Dià de los Muertos is like a family reunion – but with an otherworldly twist. It's a joyful celebration where families honour loved ones through storytelling, music, dancing and of course, delicious food.' Kick off your journey by plunging into the crystal-clear waters of Mexico's mystical cenote – an underground river that's the perfect refreshing start to your adventure. After your swim, you'll sample traditional festival foods like 'pan de muerto', a sweet bread baked in the shape of skulls or bones, as well as savoury tamales, both believed to comfort the souls of the departed. Throughout the day, you'll also learn about cool traditions like ‘offrendas' – offerings to loved ones – and the significance of bright orange marigold flowers. Next, roll up your sleeves and get hands-on with Mexican culinary magic by making your own guacamole. Sip on local wines while a chef spills the secrets behind regional flavours and cooking techniques. Lucas adds, ‘We whip up all the favourite foods and drinks of our loved ones to show we still care. Plus, we even set out their favourite snacks on the altars – you know, just in case they get hungry!' The tour wraps up with a dinner that captures the essence of the day, offering unforgettable memories and a whole new appreciation for Mexico's rich cultural heritage.

free cancellation

Available in:

Excursions & day trips

Maya Coba ruins tour with pyramid, ceremony and cenote swim

A journey deep into the Yucatán jungle to discover the ancient Maya city of Coba. You'll learn about their enigmatic culture, see the Great Pyramid, meet local villagers and swim in a sacred cenote

free cancellation

Available in:

de, da, en, fi, fr, +4 nl, no, pl, sv

Excursions & day trips

Full-day boat and golf buggy tour of Holbox Island from Chiquila

Holbox Island offers 36km of pristine white beaches washed by emerald-green seas. On this exclusive excursion, you'll discover spots like Isla Pasion on a private boat and enjoy lunch at a five-star eco-resort. There's also a golf buggy tour of the island to look forward to. Ariel, one of our local guides on this tour, says, ‘Holbox is a habitat for more than 300 endemic and migratory species. It's also something of a playground, with activities such as speedboats and beach buggies.'Board your boat at Chiquila – piloted by a local fisherman – and be whisked off on a two-hour coastal tour. Every other company uses the local ferry. Your guide will point out places known for their wildlife and explain what efforts are being made to preserve this habitat. And if you're doing the tour between June and September, you may be lucky enough to catch sight of the island's flamboyant flamingos. Plus, you'll discover the beauty of the secluded beaches of Isla Pasion and Punta Mosquito, before heading to the eco-resort for lunch followed by downtime on the sunloungers.Once your batteries are recharged, you'll hop into a golf buggy for some fun exploring the surrounding area. To round off your visit to the island, we'll make our way to Holbox's laidback main square for some free time – it's a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs or sample local food. You'll then return by ferry to Chiquila and on to Cancun.

free cancellation

Available in:

de, es, en, fr, nl, +2 it, pl

Activities

Isla Mujeres family cruise with snorkelling and lunch with shared golf cart tour

The best of the Mexican Caribbean is calling on this exclusive boat trip to Isla Mujeres – think snorkelling, A-list landscapes, and pampering along the way, all in a family-friendly setting. Maria, one of our expert local guides, says, "Isla Mujeres, or the 'Island of Women,' was once a sacred place for the Maya, who linked it to the goddess Ix Chel. These days, it's a sanctuary for sea turtles and sits right next to the UNESCO-sited Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, making it a prime spot for snorkelling, diving, and eco-adventures."Your day kicks off with a hotel pick-up and check-in at Marina Hacienda del Mar. After hopping aboard the exclusive TUI Collection catamaran, you'll cruise through the Mexican Caribbean waters, making your first stop to snorkel. The coral reefs here are something to shout about, plus, you'll likely spot tropical fish – and if you're lucky, maybe even a sea turtle. Kids aged over eight can join in on the snorkelling fun, too, if they're with an adult, while those a little younger can enjoy a swim as long as an adult stays with them.Next, you'll head to Isla Mujeres' downtown before arriving at our exclusive beach club, where it's relaxation to a T. Think unlimited drinks from the open bar, a delicious grill buffet and sun beds under the palms. If you're in the mood for a little adventure, a guided golf cart tour can take you to the southern tip of the island – perfect for those all-important holiday pics, with rugged coastline views and a lighthouse. After a day of exploring and unwinding, you'll sail back to the marina, soaking in the last views of the coast.

free cancellation

Available in:

es, en

Activities

Cozumel guided snorkelling and island tour from Cancun

Hop aboard a super-speedy boat headed to Cozumel Island, where the turquoise waters of the Caribbean and its marine life are waiting. Soak up the breathtaking landscapes before snorkelling at two of the most famous reefs in the southern part of the island, Palancar and Colombia. They're separated by a couple of metres of open water, so you'll have wall-to-wall reef to explore. Next stop is the shores of El Cielo – which literally means ‘the sky' in English – as it's famous for its peaceful atmosphere and giant starfish population, which you'll find covering much of the ocean floor. You'll also have the chance to see stingrays and other sea creatures during your time here. Afterwards, there'll be some time to relax and check out the views from El Cielito Sandbar, before heading towards the centre of Cozumel.For lunch, you'll get to try some of the region's typical dishes at a vibrant, local restaurant with an ocean view, before rounding off the day with free time to wander around Cozumel Centre. You've the option of a quick tour here – including a visit to the central clock tower at the heart of the island. Then jump back on the boat to sail back to Playa del Carmen, where your transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

free cancellation

Available in:

es, en