Ek Balam Ruins – very different Mayan architecture

The Ek Balam & Valladolid excursion provides insight into a very different style of Mayan architecture unique to Ek Balam. The construction and decoration of Ek Balam’s buildings was completed with stucco and limestone mortar, not the stone carvings found at Chichen Itza, Coba or the Tulum Ruins. In addition to the highly decorated and detailed structures, Ek Balam has unique features within its city limits. Sacbes, which are man-made roads, lead into the center of the city that is protected by an unusual wall. The Mayas took the four cardinal points into great consideration when building their city giving Ek Balam a deeper spiritual significance.

Your day with the Maya and YucaTreks

Like all of our tours, we get an early start to the day to escape large crowds at popular ruin sites. Once we arrive at Ek Balam your guide will describe in detail the significance, history and unique features of this ancient city. Bring your camera to capture the architectural details found in Ek Balam. We always provide enough time at the archaeological site to truly enjoy it – no rush.

Swim it off at Cenote Dzitnup

For the experienced cenote traveler, Cenote Dzitnup will have you yet again mesmorized by these natural wonders. If cenotes are new for you, get ready to experience these incredible limestone sinkholes that are more than just a swimming hole. We will hang out at Cenote Dzitnup so you can take all of this in. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that co-exist with the jungle and tropical fauna. This ecosystem is the only source of fresh water in the Yucatan and are the entrance ways to miles of water-filled underground caves that define the Yucatan. Take time to explore both in the water and on land to see how the cenote and jungle interact and rely on each other for life.

Deepen your understanding of the Yucatan

After walking within the walls of Ek Balam, we further our understanding and appreciation for the Yucatan with a Yucatecan lunch served at a historic hacienda. In the early 1900s, Haciendas were the focal point of agriculture and business in the Yucatan. They have been compared to Plantations and working farms to the north and built the wealth of the Yucatan. The hacienda staff prepare original recipes for this lunch, giving us a true foodie experience in a historical setting. Only local ingredients are used and the flavors are out of this world.

Exploring the colonial city of Valladolid

Our next and final stop is in the main square or “zocalo” in the colonial city of Valladolid, an up and coming artist city that has a long history in the Yucatan state. With so much to see and experience, we provide all of our guests with free time to explore and shop. Local family merchants have hand-made crafts and art typical to Mexico and the region. You will be hard pressed to find some of these items in the Riviera Maya so take a peek. The main square is the location of the oldest church in the area, the Cathedral of San Gervacio, and the Spanish colonial style found throughout the zocalo, very different from beach towns.