Ek Balam ("black jaguar" in Mayan) is a less-crowded archaeological site than Chichen Itza, but stunning, and with something Chichen does not allow: climbing its main pyramid.
Combine it with Chichen Itza and a cenote on our Chichen Itza, Ek Balam & Cenote tour.
What makes it special
Its Acropolis is one of the largest Mayan structures on the peninsula. Near the top sits El Trono (The Throne), a stucco frieze of winged figures in extraordinary detail. From the summit, the jungle view is unforgettable.
Can you climb it? Yes, and it is one of the last
Yes, in 2026 you can still climb Ek Balam's Acropolis. It is one of the very few climbable pyramids left in Mexico: at Chichen Itza, Tulum and Coba, climbing is now closed. The Acropolis is 43 meters tall and you go up a steep staircase with a rope down the middle to hold onto. Access can change by INAH ruling; confirm before you go.
Entrance fee (2026)
| Visitor | INAH | CULTUR | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign visitor | $210 | $499 | $709 MXN |
| Mexican national | $105 | $137 | $242 MXN |
2026 tariff; updated yearly. On a tour, the entrance is usually included.
Where it is and how to get there
It is about 30 minutes from Valladolid and around 2.5 hours from Cancun. It is often visited with a nearby cenote, such as X'Canche, or combined with Chichen Itza.
Tips
- Comfortable shoes for the climb, water and a hat.
- Biodegradable sunscreen if you pair it with a cenote.
- A guide brings the Throne frieze to life.
FAQ
Can you climb Ek Balam? Yes, its Acropolis, subject to current INAH rules.
What does Ek Balam mean? "Black jaguar" or "jaguar star."
How much is the entrance fee? In 2026, $709 MXN for foreign visitors and $242 MXN for Mexicans.
Is it near Chichen Itza? Yes, they are combined in area tours.
Book your visit
Chichen Itza, Ek Balam & Cenote tour. Also check the complete Chichen Itza guide and nearby cenotes.
Tariff verified with Cancun Bay operations in August 2026 (INAH 210 + CULTUR 499 foreign; 105 + 137 national). Re-verify each year, and confirm climbing status with INAH.
