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.