Freestanding Arch

La Torre

Intricate Carvings

You enter Ek Balam along one of the site's raised causeways leading to the newly reconstructed freestanding arch. Entry into the city was thought to be closed off by sealing up the arch entryway and the existence of the defensive walls all around the perimeter.

One of the largest restored buildings in Ek Balam is La Torre. The base of La Torre is extremely large measuring over 500 feet long and approximately half as wide and nearly 100 feet tall. The impressive La Torre can be climbed allowing you to get a close up view of the stucco work lying beneath each thatched roof. Just about at the top you will find a Chenes style serpent mouth doorway which is intricately carved from eyebrows to molars. You will find some of the best restoration work on the most intricate carvings on the La Torre.
Other restorations include the ball court , Las Gemales whose platform supports two identical temples and staircases and in the South Plaza, two stelae.

Ek Balam is also unique because it is one of the quieter archaeological sites and is not overwhelmed with tourists. Please note that because this ruin site is smaller and not as developed, there are fewer facilities. There is one restroom but beverages are not available for purchase on site. Be sure to take a few pesos to give to the bathroom attendants who take great care to provide clean toilet facilities for visitors.

After touring Ek Balam, you will continue on to Valladolid. Founded on the site of an ancient Mayan city, Valladolid boasts a glorious colonial history that is evident through the beautiful architecture. The tour will take you to a local museum and the San Gervacio Cathedral. Enjoy a delicious lunch buffet at a typical restaurant in Valladolid and shop for beautiful Mexican handcrafts in the shops surrounding the main square.

Included with the Mexico Vacations Ek Balam Tour:

• Round trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus
• Bilingual tour guide
• Entrance fee into Ek Balam archeological site
• Lunch buffet in Valladolid

Not Included with the Mexico Vacations Ek Balam Tour:

• Beverages
• Federal admission fee of $3.00 if you plan to bring a video camera onto the Ek Balam ruins site
• Shopping for souvenirs at Valladolid

What to Bring on the Ek Balam/Valladolid Tour:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat
• Jacket
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito Repellant
• Camera
• Money for souvenirs and beverages

Departures:

• This tour operates on Tuesdays
• Departs from Cancun Palace, Beach Palace & Sun Palace, Moon Palace, Aventura Spa Palace, Xpu-Ha Palace & Playacar Palace

Items of Note:

• Tours are subject to availability so book early.
• Details such as departure days and times are subject to change without notice.
• Detailed tour information is available at the Palace Resorts/Chaza Travel & Tours desk at your hotel. Reservations are made at the hotel with your Chaza Travel tour representatives.
• Guests are required to make tour reservations at the Chaza Travel desk in advance, but not prior to your arrival at the hotel. It is advised that you make tour bookings shortly after you arrive.

Click Here for more pictures of Ek Balam