The Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is a real treasure of history and culture, with many fascinating archaeological sites. These ruins showcase the greatness of the Maya civilization and attract thousands of visitors every year. Here’s an overview of some of the most iconic sites.
Chichen Itza : is probably the most famous Maya site in the Yucatan. Located about 180 kilometers from the Riviera Maya, this ancient city is known for its iconic temple, El Castillo, dedicated to Kukulcán, the serpent god. Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was an important political and economic center between the 7th and 10th centuries. To get there from Playa del Carmen, you can take a bus or book a tour. The entrance fee is currently 643 Mexican pesos (about 30€). The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
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Tulum : located about 60 kilometers from Playa del Carmen, is unique for its spectacular seaside location. Tulum was an important Maya port city. The ruins, surrounded by walls and offering stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, are a must-see. The entrance fee is 95 Mexican pesos, to which you have to add the entrance of the “Parque Jaguar”: about 60 pesos. To get there from Playa del Carmen, you can take a “collectivo” or book a tour. The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM).
Uxmal : about 80 kilometers from Mérida, is another major site in the Yucatan, famous for its impressive architecture. The Governor’s Palace and the Pyramid of the Magician are remarkable examples of the Puuc style, known for its elaborate decorations. To visit Uxmal from Playa del Carmen, it is recommended to go through Mérida or join an organized tour. The entrance fee is about 556 Mexican pesos (about 27€). The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Ek Balam : located about 150 kilometers north of Playa del Carmen, is known for its ornate sculptures and murals. This less-visited site, where you can still climb the structures, offers a more intimate experience with well-preserved ruins and a peaceful atmosphere. The entrance fee is 556 Mexican pesos (about 27€), and you can get there by car or with a guided tour. The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
Coba : about 100 kilometers from Playa del Carmen, is famous for its large pyramid, Nohoch Mul. Founded in the 1st century BC, Coba is a vast city with many ruins scattered in the jungle. The entrance fee is about 195 Mexican pesos (about 10€), and you can get there by bus or car. The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
Calakmul : one of the largest Maya sites ever discovered, is located about 300 kilometers south of Playa del Carmen, near the Guatemalan border. This site, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its vast ruins and exceptional biodiversity in the heart of the jungle. Access is mainly by car, and the entrance fee is about 260 Mexican pesos (about 13€). This includes the entrance of the archaeological site, the natural reserve and the “ejido”.
There are many others, all of them absolutely interestings and uniques: Mayapan, Muyil, Kabah, Kuluba, Chacchoben, Kohunlich, Balamku, Sayil, Dzibilchaltún, to name just a few. These sites offer a fascinating dive into the history of the Maya civilization and are ideal destinations for archaeology and culture enthusiasts. Whether you are interested in ancient history or natural beauty, the Yucatan Peninsula has much to captivate your imagination.
