Ek Balam self-guided walking audio tour from Cancun
Do this because
- Ek Balam is one of the few Mayan ruins where you can still climb to the top of an ancient pyramid
- Discover the tomb of Ukit Kan Le'k Tok’, an ancient Mayan king
- Unlock the secrets of the ancient hieroglyphics which are found throughout this unique site
- Learn about the ancient Mayan culture, from their art and architecture to their complex religious convictions
What to expect
Your tour of Ek Balam begins near the visitors center. As you head deeper into the site, you will learn of the fascinating history of Mayan civilization before Europeans arrived. This history dates back thousands of years. You’ll also hear about the arrival of the Spanish, and how their conquest forever changed the continent and its people.
After crossing through the remnants of an ancient defensive wall, you’ll arrive at a ball court and learn about how the ancient Mayans played an intense, sometimes dangerous game that was something like a cross between soccer and basketball. The catch? They used a ball that weighed about 20 pounds!
As you make your way to the Circular Steam Bath, you’ll learn about Mayan architecture, and why they built things in the way that they did. The bath was used for religious ceremonies, but also to heal the sick and wounded. You’ll get more familiar with Mayan religion on your way to your next stop.
Next comes the Acropolis, the largest standing structure on the peninsula. This immense building is King Ukit Kan Le'k Tok’s most enduring legacy. What’s more, you can actually climb the stairs to the top!
Along the way, you’ll notice a pair of hieroglyphic serpents, which the tour will help to explain. The Mayans used a great deal of animal imagery in their art, and everything had a specific meaning.
After that comes the tomb of Ukit Kan Le'k Tok’. It is considered the best-preserved tomb of any Mayan king, and it fittingly impressive for such an effective ruler.
Finally, you will reach the top of the pyramid. From here, you can see for miles in every direction. You’ll even be able to see the outline of Chichen Itza on a clear day! The tour concludes there, after detailing the plaza visible below.
Important to know
Know in advance:
- This is a self-guided tour, no guide will accompany you. The local operator's app functions as a guide, an audio tour, and a map all in one
- This tour provides a live GPS map on your smartphone, audio narration, written text explanations, and suggested stops
- After booking the tour you will receive an email from the local operator with the instruction to download the tour, search in your email for the phrase "Set up your self-guided tour now." Follow these instructions to finish setting up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. The tour and maps will work off-line, but you will not be able to download it and set-it up without data
- This tour is valid for an entire year - from the moment of booking. You don't need to change the booking if your travel plans change
- The local operator has an all-day support line available via call, chat, or email. Local operator's contacts can be found in the voucher after booking
What’s included
Self-guided tour taken via the app
Static map on your phone
Audio narration
Written text explanations
Unique password (sent by email) for access to app
What’s not included
Entrance fees to paid attractions
Food or drinks
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 days before the experience begins.
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Location
Provider
ACTION TOUR GUIDE
Need a hand?
Would you like some help making a booking? Or perhaps you just want to ask a few questions. Whatever the reason, don't hesitate to get in touch.
Opening hours: Our team is available from 10.00 to 18.00 CET
Phone number: +44 121 468 3145
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