Genesis Eco-Oasis Ek Balam in Chichen Itza

Welcome to the Peaceable Kingdom

Genesis Eco-Oasis was built with nature and animal lovers in mind.
Its lush gardens include fish-stocked ponds, waterfalls and a cenote-
fed swimming pool. Indigenous and hybrid plants and flowers attract
an array of birds and butterflies and provide a haven for a number of
rescued birds including a toucan, and two species of Amazon parrots.
Our delightful, well-mannered cat and dogs also help visitors feel
more than welcome!

With the jungle and ancient ruins of Ek Balam on one side of us-- and
a small Mayan community on the other--one might think Genesis is
inaccessible. It is only 25 minutes by bus or taxi from Valladolid
(See “How to Get There”). and 35 minutes from Chichen Itza. Contact
us for map and directions whether you are coming by rental car, bus or taxi.

Most of our customers come here for tranquility and authentic
cultural experience in a comfortable, home-like
environment. The cabanas are thoughtfully designed and private with stucco
construction and naturally cool thatch roofs. All are screened and have
ceiling or floor fans. We have a swimming pool and hot showers.

Authentic Cultural Experience
Part of a small Mayan community, we provide guests with non-intrusive
opportunities to get to know the people of Ek Balam, practice Spanish or
learn Mayan. Our Genesis “family” includes local workers who are
conscientious, caring, and welcoming. We offer tours to the homes of our
extended family where we are taught about the importance of corn, how to
make tortillas from scratch, how huipiles are embroidered and how to weave
hammocks. These paid tours help the host families and validates their
traditioonal knowledge.

Other Stuff to Do: We introduce people to the art of cloud watching,
done from strategically hung garden hammocks, but we also encourage
swimming in the pristine water of our cenote-fed swimming pool,
birdwatching and cycling to untouristed cenotes, traditional villages
and ancient ruins. Our mountain bikes are rented at a discount for
guests.

Perhaps the most intriguing part of being at Genesis is our proximity
to an archaeological site steeped in mystery. We are 300 meters from
Ek Balam, once the political and spiritual heart of the Yucatan.
Older, and once more powerful than Chichen Itza, its acropolis is one
of the largest prehispanic buildings (by volume) in meso-America. It
is a recommended stop for anyone intrigued by archaeology and ancient
civilizations.

The village of Ek Balam is renown for its handmade hammocks that can be
purchased directly from craftsmen. We contribute to our community in a
number of ways, from creating jobs to promoting low-impact tourism, animal
care education and spay and neuter clinics. We have been involved in the
construction of a local playground and have contributed about 100
hours in free English classes for local children. During the off-
season we also provide free food and accommodation for participants
in special projects at Genesis or in the community.

The community of Ek Balam is very safe and our staff, trustworthy. We provide
combination locks on request for cabana doors but not one guest has ever
used them! Genesis is enclosed by a 2-meter wall mostly to keep
out stray pigs and chickens, but also for the peace of mind of our
guests.
Chaya’s Natural Restaurant operates on the premises and
features whole foods including Chaya, the delicious, miraculous plant
used by ancient and modern Maya for health, healing and flavor. Try
our homemade Chaya-garlic bread, refreshing Chaya-lime juice, homemade
icecream and famous chocolate-chili cookies.

Genesis Retreat Includes
8 thoughtfully designed private cabanas
·low chemical, bio-filtered swimming pool
·Pressurized hot water showers, outdoor “eco-showers”
·Coffee Shop, restaurant, book exchange (8am-8pm)
·Traditional/regional and vegetarian menus
·Mountain bikes to explore nearby villages, cenotes,caves
·Nearby natural attractions (Chichen Itza, Cenote Dzitnup, Caribbean
beaches, Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve)
cultural, archaeological or recreational tours

Genesis appeals to visitors interested in:
1.Mayan culture and language
2.Archaeology and archaeological sites
3.Bird watching
4.Cycling
5.Swimming, exploring
6.Total relaxation
7. Soft Adventure

Enquire about our special tour and accommodation packages including
Cenote Rappel, Crafts Tour, and Cycle Trips

Travel Information
For more information about the village and ruins of Ek Balam, log on
to our website.

Our rental rates are low as we are a new Eco-Lodge just
breaking into the market in a region on the brink of
being "discovered" by the world. Our 8 cabanas are thoughtfully
designed for maximum natural ventilation, have ceiling or floor fans.
One airconditioned. We have cabanas with detached bathroom facilities
or private bathrooms. The cost is $22 per night per person based
on double occupancy. Cabanas with private bathroom cost $25/person
per night with kingsize bed.