Genesis Eco-Oasis Ek Balam

Amazing off the Beaten Path Retreat. The rooms are not the usual hotel type. Each room is unique and wonderful. We are in the bamboo room. The staff is better than any five star hotel as they do all they can to make you comfortable. Today we went to a traditional Mayan home in the village and made sipping chocolate and corn tortillas from scratch. What a wonderful experience. This place is a unique experience that should not be missed. Oh, the food is prepared by Gloria and is some of the best in Mexico. Lee, thanks for a life changing, fun, and peaceful experience.

I ate the sweetest and most delicious papaya I have ever had at this eco-lodge. The owner also owns an organic farm and I think she might have grown it there. If that's not enough, everything else was wonderful: the little town, all the plants and the animals, the food, the vibe and especially the mornings with the rooster crowing. It was so, so peaceful. We stayed in the birdhouse which was great. The only thing we weren't totally crazy about is that the bed is suspended by ropes and swings, so be prepared for that. Otherwise everything was superb and I recommend it.

We stayed here as a family of 5 and it was awesome! Rooms were very clean and the staff was welcoming and knowledgeable. If you have time plan to spend a few nights here, ek-balam is a nice site with great English speaking guides and there are plenty of activities to do in the village. Inquire with Lee, the owner as she knows everything that's going on.

I knew this place was going to be amazing but I don't think I realized how special the visit would be. My only regret is not spending more than one night there. Genesis is a hidden gem in the middle of a hidden gem (Ek Balam). The room was spectacular - we stayed in the tree house - with the swinging bed and hammocks on the porch. It was amazing! But, Genesis is far more than just the physical space. It is renting bikes (for $6!) to ride to EK Balam and the cenote, it is buying delicious bread treats out of the trunk of a taxi because the bakery knows to stop by Genesis, it is snuggling Twiggy the two-legged pup, and it is getting homemade delicious meals from Marie and Gloria! Finally, the best part! On the evening we got into town, Lee invited us to go to a local home to learn how to make hot chocolate in the traditional Maya way. We thought, sure, why not - turns out the experience in Guadalupe's house was the most impactful moment in our entire trip. Guadalupe invited us in, shared her traditions (including her 500 year old molcajete), stories, and family with us. This experience is free but a donation is suggested and, not that it is my business but, if you go, make sure to give her a donation because she is doing good things with that cash. 1,000% would refer a friend or a cool stranger.

A true hidden gem, off the beaten path. It's a lovely property; the entire place is a jungle/garden oasis complete with beautiful colors and cute string lights. We loved the outdoor shower in our room! The owner is so nice and accommodating, and the common area is perfect for a hammock siesta, reading a book or meeting the other guests. The breakfast is great and we had one dinner here which was fabulous. It's a great property for exploring the village, the nearby ruins and doing day trips into Valladolid or surrounding cenotes. A true eco resort!