Hidden Meaning
Learn why this walled city is called “Black Jaguar” and discover the importance of this animal in Maya royalty.
About This Experience
Venture deep into the jungle and discover the least crowded jewel of the Maya world. On this 1.5-hour walking tour of Ek Balam, “Black Jaguar”, you will explore an acropolis where you can still touch history.
Climb to the top of the temple for an unparalleled panoramic view, admire the stunning stucco reliefs of the Jaguar Throne, and receive detailed explanations from guides certified by the local community.
The Imposing Acropolis
Your guide will take you through the three sections of the enormous Acropolis, the largest structure at the site, which houses the tombs of ancient rulers.
Jaguar Throne — Stucco Frieze
Marvel at one of the most important discoveries in recent years: a perfectly preserved stucco frieze depicting an enthroned ruler, with jaguar mouths and celestial glyphs.
Unforgettable Views
From the top of the Acropolis, you will get a 360-degree view of the Yucatecan jungle, a reward for your eyes and your camera.
Highlights
🐆Discover the meaning behind the name “Black Jaguar” and its
importance in Maya royalty.
🏛️Explore the three sections of the enormous Acropolis.
👑See the tombs of ancient Maya rulers.
🗿Admire the preserved stucco frieze of the Jaguar
Throne.
📖Learn about Maya history, architecture and worldview.
🧗Climb to the top of the Acropolis.
🌿Enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of the Yucatecan
jungle.
📷Take time for panoramic photographs.
💧Receive recommendations for additional activities, such as
Cenote X'Canché.
What’s Included
✓ Included
- Professional certified guide service for 1.5 hours.
- Entrance tickets, when the option with entrance tickets is selected.
- Explanation of Maya history, architecture and worldview.
- Guided visit through the Acropolis, Jaguar Throne and other structures.
- Time for panoramic photographs.
- Recommendations for additional activities.
✕ Not Included
- Entrance to the archaeological zone when the option without entrance tickets is selected.
- Transportation to or from the meeting point.
- Food and beverages.
- Gratuities.
- Entrance to Cenote X'Canché.
- Personal expenses.
Tour Itinerary
-
10–15 min
Meeting Point
General introduction, recommendations and delivery of entrance tickets, when applicable.
-
215–30 min
Entrance and Peripheral Structures
Explanation of the urban organization, defensive walls and residential complexes.
-
330–75 min
The Great Acropolis
Explore the different levels of the Acropolis, see the stucco mural known as the Jaguar Throne, climb to the top and take panoramic photographs.
-
475–90 min
Conclusion and Farewell
Return to the meeting area, questions and answers, and recommendations for additional activities, such as Cenote X'Canché.
Schedule & Availability
Shared Tour Schedule
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Private Tour Time Slots
8:00 AM · 9:00 AM · 10:00 AM
11:00 AM · 12:00 PM · 1:00 PM
11:00 AM · 12:00 PM · 1:00 PM
Practical Information
Duration
1.5 hours of guided tour.
Tour Type
Private and shared walking tour.
Languages
Spanish and English.
Recommended Group Size
10 to 15 people.
Meeting Point
Entrance to Ek Balam. The exact location is shared through
Google Maps.
Open Google Maps location →
Open Google Maps location →
Transportation
Transportation is not included. Guests must arrive using
their own vehicle, taxi or colectivo.
Official Ek Balam Entrance Fees 2026
Entrance fees are not included when the guest selects the option without tickets.
Foreign Visitors
$691 MXN per person.
This amount includes the federal INAH fee and the state fee.
Mexican Visitors
$237 MXN per person.
A valid INE identification must be presented at the ticket office.
Important Entrance Information
- Guests must pay directly at the ticket office in cash when entrance tickets are not included.
- Entrance to Ek Balam is free for Mexican citizens on Sundays.
- The parking area is managed by the local community.
- Parking has an approximate additional cost of $100 MXN per vehicle.
- Children under 13 years old do not pay the federal INAH fee on any day of the week.
- The exemption for children under 13 applies regardless of nationality, although foreign children may be asked to prove residency in Mexico.
- Admission is completely free for Mexican visitors on Sundays.
Weather Policy
Ek Balam is located in a jungle environment.
The tour operates in the rain unless weather conditions become dangerous.
Tour Options
Option 1: Walking Tour Only
Includes:
- Professional guide for 1.5 hours.
- Guided walking tour through Ek Balam.
Does not include:
- Entrance ticket to the archaeological zone.
Guests selecting this option must arrive at the ticket office with cash to purchase their entrance ticket.
Option 2: Complete Package
Includes:
- Professional guide for 1.5 hours.
- Entrance ticket to the archaeological zone.
This option includes both the guided service and the entrance ticket.
Ek Balam Gallery
