Ek Balam is an unique, interesting and lesser-known mayan ruins site with impressive structures that are surrounded by dense jungle. In Maya language “Ek Balam” means black jaguar. The city is composed of several temples, two palaces and large pyramid El Torre (the only one in the proximity of Riviera Maya you can still climb). The buildings were designed in the northern Peten architectural style.
Cobá was one of the most important Mayan cities on the Yucatan Peninsula. The city is hidden in the heart of the jungle. Visitors can enjoy shaded walkways that are the original sacbeos (white roads), three settlements that show the architecture of this once large city, 2 ball courts and admire the highest (42m) Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan, Nohoch Mul. The archeological site contains numerous stelae (free-standing carved stone slabs), that document ceremonial life and important events of the city.
The Tour:
We start the tour with a visit to the ancient city of Ek Balam. Sightseeing of the archeological site: Central Square, Stale Platform, Acropolis Pyramid, the Arc, the Twin House and the Ball game Court. This is where our adventure with the Mayan beliefs begins. We get to know the sacred tree La Ceiba, which represents the cycle of life and death, and the legends of the underworld and spiritual guides. You also have a chance to climb EL Torre.
Our next stop is an ancient city of Coba – the oldest Mayan city in Yucatan. There we will find out how the Mayan code was broken, we will see stone tablets (stelles) and the history of the city written on them. We will visit this archaeological zone by driving in two-person Mayan rickshaws.
A lunch in the form of a buffet allows you to get acquainted with the regional cuisine. We can try Yucatan sopa de lima (lime soup) and handmade tortillas.
Later we will go to the cenote where we will be able to descend into the Mayan underworld. The cenote, which is over 40 m deep, is equipped with platforms for jumping from a height of 5 m and 8 m respectively.
The last point of the trip is a visit to a Mayan village, where we will meet the shaman, participate in a traditional purification ceremony, learn about medicinal herbs and spices, visit a Mayan house, and try to make tortillas. There will be an opportunity to take pictures with the Mayan family and purchase local handicrafts. If you want, you can take gifts for children from the village on this trip: school supplies, educational toys, healthy snacks and the like.
Duration: 10h
What to take with you:
Sun protection, swimming suit, towel. You will be required to shower before you entering the cenote. We recommend that visitors use eco-friendly sunblock, because this helps to preserve the environment.
Price includes: transportation to / from hotel, entrance fees, licensed tour guide, a bottle of water, lunch.
Price does not include: other beverages and tips.
Prices depend on the number of people in the group.
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