Ek Balam
Time for a boat dog?
After the enjoyment of visiting the geometrically logical Chichén Itzá, we were keen to visit another of the famed historic Mayan sites. Our trip to Ek Balam got off to a good start, being greeted near the entrance by a new litter of puppies. Mum was more than happy for us to cuddle and we contemplated what we’d call our boat dog, Zeus perhaps?
Unlike Chichen Itza where the main event was visible soon after arriving, the dense forest and layout of Ek Balam built suspense, as buildings were discovered. These structures, unlike Chichén Itzá could still be climbed to help gain a perspective of their layout. The steps were sheer and extreme caution was required in the heat, or if you’re Charles they were a great spot for some star jumps.
The ruins pre date Chichén Itzá, with initial construction dated to approximately 100 BC - 300 AD.
The view from above the jungle canopy was humbling, and it was a pleasure to see an inland landscape such as this with little human intervention to the distant horizon.
Furthermore the wildlife was abundant and we had close encounters with various iguanas, leaf cutter ants, birds species and preying mantis.
After climbing in the heat we progressed down a dirt road to another Cenote to cool off. This open top 30m deep pool was rigged with various swing and jump spots and provided the perfect opportunity to get refreshed. I found the ‘no jumping from the top’ sign when leaving.
