If you are looking for the ideal day trip during your visit to Valladolid Yucatan, do not miss Ek Balam!
A visit to Ek Balam feels like time-traveling; without a doubt, this ancient city gives us a glimpse of Mayan life.
This magnificent archeological site stands mysterious and imposing architecture. Besides, it’s right in the middle of the Mayan jungle.
The meaning of Ek Balam is Dark Jaguar or Star Jaguar (Ek: Black/Star, Balam: Jaguar). The city was named in honor of its first leader: Cal Balam.
Ek Balam was one of the biggest cities of its time, first ruled by its founders and then by the powerful Itzaes. The walls surrounding the city kept its 15,000 inhabitants safe over 3,500 years.
Over the years, many Mayan cities have disappeared into the jungle. However, Ek Balam still stands with its imposing presence and masterful architecture.
The site’s golden era was between 600- 850/900 AD. Like the other Mayan cities, its population decreased with the Spaniards’ arrival, disease and famine.
One of the most iconic buildings is the tomb of the first known king Ukit Kan Le´t Tok. The king was responsible for the largest construction in Ek Balam known as the ACROPOLIS.
This Mayan ruler was also responsible for constructing another iconic building, “Sak Xok Nahh” (white house of reading).
How to get there?
The Mayan city Ek Balam is located 90 miles east of Mérida Yucatán, or about 14 miles north of Valladolid.
In Valladolid, there are taxis that make trips to Ek Balam, so ask the concierge about the location of the Taxi Base for Ek Balam.
What are the entrance fees?
Entrance fees are quite affordable, starting at 75.00 Mexican pesos and 338.00 Mexican pesos for foreigners.
What days can I visit?
The Mayan city is open from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the box office can be found open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Is Ek Balam a Family Friendly Activity near Valladolid Yucatán?
We are parents of three children and YES, Ek Balam is one of the easiest places to take the kids.
It is a small site, we use to walk around for about an hour. It also has excellent visibility, so the kids might run and roam around with little supervision.
What about the rest of the Day?
Ek Balam is an ideal destination if you want to enjoy a quiet site, as there this site is less crowded than others in the area. The tour will most probably take a couple of hours.
You can follow the cenote just outside of Ek Balam or head to some other cenotes in the area. If you are traveling with children or elderly people maybe these cenotes are not ideal.
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