The 30 Best Mayan Ruins of Mexico That Need to Be On Your Bucket List
Planning to see some Mexico Mayan Ruins on your trip?
Smart choice! As someone who’s been living in Mexico and traveling all over the country, the Mayan sites are some of the most interesting places in the country.
In total, there are about 200 public Mayan sites in Mexico — though very few visitors don’t make it to them all.
So just which ones are the best Mexican Mayan Ruins that you can’t miss?!
You’ve landed on the right article, because the 30 best Mayan Ruins of Mexico are all featured here.
From the most famous ruins of them all, Chichen Itza Ruins, to off the beaten path hidden gems like Becan Ruins — let’s get to the list already!
The 30 Best Mayan Ruins of Mexico
1. Chichén Itzá Ruins
Visiting Chichen Itza Ruins
As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, does Chichen Itza even need an introduction?!
It is centrally-located in the Yucatan, so no matter if you’re staying in Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Tulum, Merida, or Riviera Maya — there will be plenty of Chichen Itza tours available.
Of all Mexico Yucatan destinations, Chichen Itza is closest to the Valladolid pueblo magico, one of the 177 or Mexico magic towns.
Staying overnight at a Valladolid hotel, or combining your Chichen Itza trip with a stop at nearby Cenote Ik Kil, are both great options.
The most popular way to see the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza is with a guided tour.
As such an important Mayan site, it warrants paying a guide to really learn why it’s so important and all the things to see at Chichen Itza — otherwise, you’re essentially just looking at rocks 🪨
If you’re not going with a group tour, you can hire a guide on-site.
When arriving at the Chichen Itza entrance gate, you’ll see accredited guides selling day tours for about $1,000 pesos (about $50 USD).
If you’re planning to hire one, remember to bring enough pesos to pay them.
What to see at Chichen Itza Ruins
At Chichen Itza, there are several Mayan pyramids and unique sites to explore. It is a very large site, so plan for at least three hours to see it all.
Entering the site, you’ll first see El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcan); the Chichen Itza pyramid you’ve likely seen in photos.
Other notable sites include the Temple of the Warriors, Group of a Thousand Columns, Great Ball Court and Sacred Cenote — where human sacrifices likely took place.
As you’d imagine, the Mayan Ruins at Chichen Itza get very crowded, so arrive as easily as you can.
There’s very little shade at the site, so don’t forget your Water-To-Go Bottle (which also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico), Anti-Bug Eco Sunscreen and a sun hat.
Chichen Itza Tips & Fun Facts
- Book your Mayan Ruins Tours to Chichen Itza here
- Chichen Itza means at the mouth of the well of the Itza in Maya, in reference to the Itza family
- How big is Chichen Itza? 4 square miles (10 square kilometers)
- Can you climb Chichen Itza pyramids? No
- Chichen Itza Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Chichen Itza Admission: $648 pesos (about $30 USD) per person
- Chichen Itza Parking: $116 pesos (about $6 USD) in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
2. Tulum Mayan Ruins of Mexico
Tulum, Mexico, is one of the must see Yucatan beach towns.
It is located 1.5 hours south of Cancun, and known as one of the most Instagram worthy Mexico destinations with its bohemian vibes, colorful cafes, posh beach resorts, beautiful Tulum cenotes, and of course, Mayan ruins.
Visiting Tulum Ruins
The Archeological Zone of Tulum, or Tulum Ruins, is located just 5-10 minutes from Downtown Tulum on the northern end of Tulum Beach.
Since it’s actually located in Tulum National Park, this is the easiest way to see Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico.
Compared to other sites, the Mayan Ruins of Tulum Mexico is smaller.
However, it’s one of the most beautiful, located on a cliffside overlooking the Caribbean Sea and white sand beaches below.
Inside, you’ll see the Templo del Viento (Wind Temple), the most photographed of Tulum Ruins buildings.
From there, continue onto the other buildings along the designated path.
These include the Templo del Dios Descendente (Temple of the Descending God), El Castillo (The Castle), Templo de Los Frescos (Temple of the Frescoes) and more.
After touring the Mayan Ruins Tulum, head down the staircase and onto the beautiful beach cove beneath the site.
Tulum Ruins Beach (or Playita Tortugas) is a great place to cool off after visiting, so don’t forget your quick dry towel, bathing suit and Anti-Bug Eco Sunscreen.
Tulum Ruins Tips
- Book your Tulum Mayan Ruins Tours here
- The Maya word for Tulum is zama, which means dawn because it is located in the east, so you can see the sunrise from the coast
- Can you climb the pyramids at Tulum Ruins? No
- Tulum Ruins Hours: Open daily, 9am-5pm; last admission is at 3:30pm
- Tulum Ruins Admission: $155 pesos ($7.50 USD), split between two fees
- Tulum Ruins Parking: $150 pesos ($7 USD) in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
3. Cobá Ruins
Visiting Coba Ruins
Located deep in a dense jungle (so it’s a good idea to bring your bug spray 🦟), the Mayan Ruins of Coba offers a different experience entirely from the Tulum Ruins.
More of a complete Mayan city than a pyramid site, many will rent a bike to see the whole place, or hire a tricycle-taxi to get around.
Coba Mayan Ruins has several distinct areas or building groups. In each, you’ll see pyramids, other buildings and steles (large, carved stone tablets).
The largest pyramid at Coba Mayan Ruins, Nohoch Mul (AKA Ixmoja), is actually the tallest pyramid in Yucatan at 137-feet-tall and 120 steps to the top.
There’s a rope to hold on to, but this is a bit of a steep climb. However, the views of the entire jungle from the top are totally worth it.
⚠️ UPDATE: As of 2021, you are no longer permitted to climb Coba Ruins.
The Ixmoja pyramid is part of the Nohoch Mul Group, but there are other notable areas at Coba.
These include the Chumuc Mul Group, Coba Group and Macanxoc Group.
It is a very large site, so do hire a local guide to really explain everything that makes the Mayan Coba Ruins so unique.
Chichen Itza vs Coba Ruins: Which is better?
Of course, the two ruins are both impressive. However, Chichen Itza is quite touristy and crowded, while the Mayan Ruins Coba site is the exact opposite.
Many people also enjoy being able to rent bikes at Coba, for a leisurely ride through the jungle to see all the ruins of Coba.
Also, if you want to climb some Mayan pyramids in Yucatan, you’ll have to head to Coba — because you can’t climb any pyramids or structures at Chichen Itza.
⚠️ UPDATE: As of 2021, you are no longer permitted to climb Coba Ruins.
As Coba is located in Quintana Roo state, you’re not too far from all the best Riviera Maya cenotes to swim in after your Coba visit.
Coba Tulum Ruins Tips
- Book your Coba Mayan Ruins Tours here
- Coba means waters stirred by the wind in Mayan, as Coba is surrounded by two lakes
- Can you climb Coba Ruins? No, as of 2021, you can no longer climb the ruins at Coba, but prior to that, you could climb the ruins at Coba
- Coba Ruins Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm; last admission is at 3:30pm
- Coba Ruins Admission: $120 pesos ($6 USD)
- Coba Ruins Parking: $50 pesos ($2.50 USD) in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
4. Ek Balam Ruins
Visiting Ek Balam Ruins
Ek Balam Mayan Ruins is located about two hours from both Cancun and Tulum, and just a short drive of about 30 minutes from Valladolid, Mexico.
As one of the more off the beaten path Mayan ruins in Mexico, it’s not uncommon to have the place all to yourself.
It is a visually interesting site, with thatched roofs covering many of the pyramids; a gorgeous contrast with the stone pyramids.
Towards the interior of the buildings, don’t miss the elaborate carved stone statues tucked away beneath the thatched overhangs.
You can climb the main pyramid at Ek Balam, the Great Acropolis, for some spectacular jungle views of the surrounding area.
Overall, it’s a gorgeous Mayan ruins site, so make sure your phone is charged when you visit because you’ll want tons of photos.
Ek Balam Ruins Tips
- Book your Ek Balam tours here
- Ek Balam means black jaguar in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Ek Balam? Yes
- Ek Balam Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm; last admission is at 4pm
- Ek Balam Admission: $531 pesos ($25 USD)
- Ek Balam Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
5. Muyil Ruins
Visiting Muyil Ruins
The actual name of these Mayan ruins is Chunyaxché, though you’ll mostly see it referred to as Muyil.
It is located just south of Tulum in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, near the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a recognized UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The Muyil Ruins, though not too far from Tulum Ruins, look totally different.
At Muyil, you’ll see what is known as Peten architecture, with steep walled pyramids similar to those at the famous Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala.
As Muyil is a smaller site, many will combine their visit with a boat tour or float tour (where you float down the river with a guide) of Sian Ka’an — Like this one, the Sian Ka’an and Muyil Archaeological Site Tour.
Muyil Ruins Tips
- Book your Maya Ruins Tours to Muyil Ruins & Sian Ka’an Tours here
- Chunyaxche means wide ceiba trunk in Maya, referring to the ceiba tree
- Can you climb the pyramids at Muyil? No
- Muyil Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm; last admission is at 3:30pm
- Muyil Admission: $70 pesos ($3.50 USD)
- Muyil Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
6. Xel-Há Ruins
Visiting Xel-Ha Ruins
An off the beaten path Mayan ruins site that’s often overlooked as it shares a name with the popular Xel-Ha Water Park.
The Xel-Ha Ruins (pronounced shell-ha) are actually located right next to the park, and many combine the two for a nice day trip.
As far as the Xel-Ha Ruins themselves, there are several here like El Palacio (The Palace) and the House of Birds.
Inside the House of Birds, there are a few rooms where you can see ancient paintings on the walls made in red and blue paint, two sacred colors for the Maya.
Xel-Ha Waterpark
There are also two cenotes at Xel-Ha.
If you’re wondering, What is a cenote?, they are sinkholes containing freshwater from the river that flows under the entire Yucatan Peninsula.
There are about 6,000 cenotes in Yucatan, many you can swim in, but these you can not.
If you do want to swim in some cenotes, visit the Xel-Ha Ruins first, then head only a few minutes away to Xel-Ha Park.
Called “the largest aquarium in the world,” it has plenty of cenotes to snorkel and swim in, and adventure activities like zip lining, cliff jumping and swimming in caves.
Xel-Ha Ruins Tips
- Buy your Xel-Ha tickets here
- Xel-Ha means mixing of the waters in Maya, referring to the Caribbean Sea mixing with a freshwater river inlet
- Can you climb the pyramids at Xel-Ha? No, there aren’t any large structures
- Xel-Ha Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Xel-Ha Admission: $90 pesos ($4.50 USD)
- Xel-Ha Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
7. El Rey Ruins: The Best Cancun Mayan Ruins of Mexico
Truth be told, the Mayan ruins of Cancun may not wow you the same as some of the Mayan ruins near Cancun, located a few hours away.
However, that’s not to say you should skip them, only that they are smaller sites you can explore in about an hour — so they are quick stops while in Cancun, Mexico.
Visiting El Rey Ruins in Cancun
Located right in the Zona Hotelera (Cancun Hotel Zone), you’ll find the Mayan ruins of Kin Ich Ahau Bonil, known in Spanish as El Rey.
Meaning “The King,” many archeologists and historians believe the remains of a Mayan king are buried at this Mayan Ruins Cancun site.
This is a smaller site, though it has about 45 structures on it. The most important is Structure 2 — where the original pyramid’s base once sat.
In total, plan to spend about 30-45 minutes at the Mayan Ruins El Rey, but it’s one of the best things to do in Cancun without leaving the city.
El Rey Ruins Tips
- Book your Cancun tours here
- KinIch Ahau Bonil means king of the solar countenance in Maya, referring to the king believe to be buried there
- Can you climb the pyramids at El Rey? No, there aren’t any large structures
- El Rey Hours: Open daily, 8am-4:30pm
- El Rey Admission: $50 pesos ($2.50 USD)
- El Rey Parking: Free in a small lot in front of the site, though spaces are limited
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
8. Yamil Lu’um Ruins
Visiting Yamil Lu’um Ruins in Cancun
Yamil Lu’um, AKA Templo del Alacran (Temple of the Scorpion), is located right on Cancun Beach.
It is just a single structure that sits in a grassy area between The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Villas & Spa and Grand Park Royal Cancun hotels.
The Yamil Lu’um Mayan ruins make for great photos, with world-famous Cancun Beach in the background of one of the best-located Mayan temples in Mexico.
As it’s not technically a public site, you access Yamil Lu’um by walking on the beach or by passing through one of the two hotels on either side of it.
Yamil Lu’um Ruins Tips
- Book your Cancun tours here
- Yamil Lu’um means hilly land in Maya, as it sits on Cancun’s highest point
- Can you climb the pyramids at Yamil Lu’um? No
- Yamil Lu’um Hours: Always open
- Yamil Lu’um Admission: Free
- Yamil Lu’um Parking: Since it’s not an actual site, there is no designated parking
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
9. San Miguelito Ruins
Visiting San Miguelito Ruins in Cancun
Located just minutes from El Rey, you’ll find the San Miguelito Mayan Ruins.
Opened to the public in 2012, these ruins are located at the same site as the Museo Maya de Cancun (Cancun Maya Museum) — the best museum in Cancun.
Admission to the museum includes access to this Maya ruin site, though don’t skip the museum itself to see many of the interesting Mayan artifacts found at this and other sites.
As far as the ruins themselves, there are four distinct areas and a large central structure to see.
San Miguelito Ruins Tips
- Book your Cancun tours here
- San Miguelito’s original Maya name is unknown
- Can you climb the pyramids at San Miguelito? No
- San Miguelito Hours: Open daily, 9am-4:30pm
- San Miguelito Admission: $80 pesos ($4 USD), which includes entrance to the Cancun Maya Museum
- San Miguelito Parking: Free in a small lot at the museum
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
10. El Meco Ruins
Visiting El Meco Ruins in Cancun
El Meco (AKA La Naranja) is a smaller site with 14 structures, including the main temple, El Castillo.
Meaning “The Castle,” this is an impressive five-level pyramid that stands 55-feet-tall (17 m), and was believed to have been used for religious rituals and worship.
☀️ Want to speak some Mayan in Mexico? Kin is the Maya word for sun!
From the top of this pyramid, you can see directly to the Caribbean Sea and Isla Mujeres island.
Meaning “Island of Women” this is a popular travel destination and one the best Cancun day trips, though many stay overnight in one of these amazing yet affordable Isla Mujeres hotels.
Given its geographic location directly in front of Isla Mujeres, historians assume El Meco once served as a point of connection with the island.
El Meco is a great stop before jumping on the ferry to Isla Mujeres, Mexico, where you’ll find the Isla Mujeres Mayan Ruins of Ixchel (next on this list).
You can catch the Cancun to Isla Mujeres ferry at the Puerto Juarez, Playa Tortugas or Playa Caracol ferry terminals, for about $25 USD round-trip.
El Meco Ruins Tips
- Book your Cancun tours here
- El Meco’s original Maya name is unknown
- Can you climb the pyramids at El Meco? No
- El Meco Hours: Open daily, 8am-4pm
- El Meco Admission: $55 pesos ($2.50 USD)
- El Meco Parking: Free in a small lot on-site, though spaces are limited
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
11. Temple of Ixchel Ruins (Isla Mujeres)
Visiting Ixchel Ruins
Isla Mujeres, the Island of Women, got its name from the large number of statues of the goddess Ixchel found all over the island by Spanish conquistadors.
Ixchel (pronounced ik-shell) is a jaguar goddess, associated with the moon, childbirth, medicine, fertility and midwifery.
While not in Cancun itself, these are some of the best Mayan ruins by Cancun.
To get to the island, take the 20-minute Cancun to Isla Mujeres ferry over for a nice day trip from Cancun, or even an overnight trip.
🏩 Looking to stay overnight? Check out all these best hotels in Isla Mujeres.
Overlooking the Caribbean Sea at Punta Sur, the southern tip of Isla Mujeres, you’ll find the Ruins of Ixchel Temple.
It sits on the highest elevation point in the entire Yucatan Peninsula, and at the edge of the sea, so historians say this structure functioned as a lighthouse, not a ceremonial center.
Nowadays, it’s one of the best things to do in Isla Mujeres. Besides the ruins themselves, there’s a sculpture garden, oceanfront walkway, and restaurant.
You’ll also see plenty of iguanas who live in the rocks of these ancient Mayan ruins of Mexico.
Ixchel Ruins Tips
- Book your Isla Mujeres tours here
- Ixchel is the name of a prominent Mayan goddess
- Can you climb the pyramids at Ruins of Ixchel? No, there aren’t any large structures
- Ruins of Ixchel Hours: Open daily, 9am-5:30pm
- Ruins of Ixchel Admission: $30 pesos ($1.50 USD)
- Ruins of Ixchel Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
12. Uxmal Ruins: Best Merida Mayan Ruins of Mexico
Merida, Mexico, is one of the most up-and-coming Yucatan travel destinations.
Considered one of the safest cities in Mexico, this colorful colonial town is quickly popping up on more and more travel radars for those seeking authentic Mayan culture.
Visiting Uxmal Ruins
One of the most popular Merida day trips, and the best Mayan ruins near Merida, is Uxmal (pronounced oosh-mall).
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered the second most important archeological site in the Yucatan, behind Chichen Itza.
Besides the smaller crowds at Uxmal, you’ll also enjoy all the other perks of an off the beaten path Mexico ruins, like not being approached by hordes of souvenir vendors.
Uxmal also provides for a more peaceful visit overall, where you can relax while admiring the site.
Where is Uxmal Mayan Ruins?
Uxmal is a bit remote, and the closest city is Merida at about 52 miles (84 km) away.
From other areas of the Yucatan, like Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Tulum, know this is a 4-5 hour drive, so you’ll want to book at least one night at any one of these best hotels in Uxmal, Mexico.
Uxmal Ruins Tips
- Book your Uxmal Ruins tours here
- Uxmal means thrice built in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Uxmal? Yes, except El Adivino
- Uxmal Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm; last admission is at 4pm
- Uxmal Admission: $495 pesos ($25 USD)
- Uxmal Parking: $80 pesos ($4 USD)
Chichen Itza vs Uxmal: Which is better?
While this is a matter of personal preference, as they are both quite impressive, there is one definitive reason you’d want to pick Uxmal.
You can climb the pyramids and buildings at Uxmal! Chichen Itza does not allow for climbing on any structures.
While visitors can not climb the tallest pyramid in Uxmal, called El Adivino (AKA The Pyramid of the Magician), you can climb the Great Pyramid right next to it.
From the top, you’ll get the most amazing views of Uxmal and the surrounding Yucatan jungle.
You can also climb the other buildings — House of the Birds, House of the Turtles, Nunnery Quadrangle and more — to see Uxmal’s intricate carved stone designs.
Uxmal is one of five sites on the Ruta Puuc, all with buildings in the same beautiful Puuc carved stone aesthetic.
The Ruta Puuc
Though Uxmal has the most name recognition, there are actually four other Puuc Ruins sites.
The complete list of Puuc Route sites are Sayil, Labna, Kabah, Xlapak and Uxmal — and they all fall under the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, not just Uxmal.
What is the Puuc Route (Ruta Puuc)?
The Ruta Puuc is a 36-mile-long (58 km) drive that goes along Highway 261/Hopelchen-Uman Highway.
Coming from Merida, Uxmal is the first site at 52 miles (84km) away.
If you follow the road heading southeast, you’ll pass Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak and Labna; in that order.
The word puuc means hills in Maya, and though the Yucatan is mostly flat, these five sites are on elevated land areas.
Puuc has also come to signify the intricate architectural styles on the carved stone you’ll see on structures at these sites, and the carved masks of the Mayan rain god, Chaac.
The easiest way to see all the Puuc Route sites is in a rental car, as there’s not always public transport.
On Sundays only, the Ruta Puuc Bus has one trip, from 8am-5pm, with the Oriente bus company.
This will take you to all the sites, and you can buy tickets at the main bus station on Calle 69 in Downtown Merida.
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
13. Kabah Ruins
This ancient city is about 1,300-years-old and has a series of Mexican Mayan temples and structures to climb and explore.
Along the walls of the central and most impressive structure, the Palace of Masks, you’ll see a display of more than 300 masks of Chaac, the Mayan rain god.
- Kabah means the powerful hand in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Kabah? Yes
- Kabah Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Kabah Admission: $55 pesos ($2.50 USD)
- Kabah Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
14. Sayil Ruins
Archeologists estimate this town had about 10,000 inhabitants during its heyday in 900 AD.
The main structure at Sayil is a long, three-tier palace, and you can walk along the scabe (pathway) to the Mirador (Lookout), a structure in near-ruin but with a very cool esthetic.
- Sayil means place of the ants in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Sayil? No
- Sayil Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Sayil Admission: $55 pesos ($2.50 USD)
- Sayil Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
15. Xlapak Ruins
Though the smallest of the Puuc Route sites, it’s free to enter, so don’t pass up the chance to explore it.
At Xlapak, you’ll find three palaces within separate complexes. Of the three, the main nine-room palace stands with several decorative masks depicting the Mayan god of rain, Chaac.
- Xlapak means old walls in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Xlapak? No, there aren’t any large structures
- Xlapak Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Xlapak Admission: Free
- Xlapak Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
16. Labaná Ruins
Labna is estimated to be about 1,400-years-old, though it’s incredibly well-preserved — especially the intricate Labna Arch, seen in the photo above ⤴
There’s also El Palacio (The Palace), a long structure decorated with Chaac masks in honor of the Mayan rain god, and El Mirador (The Lookout), a pyramid topped with a temple.
- Labna means old houses in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Labna? No
- Labna Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Labna Admission: $55 pesos ($2.50 USD)
- Labna Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
17. Dzibilchaltún Ruins
Visiting Dzibilchaltun Ruins
Dzibilchaltun (pronounced zee-bee-shall-tune) is the closest Mayan ruins to Merida
Though small, there’s also an onsite museum with large-scale Mayan artifacts, a mini sculpture garden to walk through, and a lagoon-like cenote to swim in, Cenote Xlacah.
Many visit on the Spring and Autumn Equinoxes, to see the sunrise at the Mayan Ruins Dzibilchaltun.
On these two days, the sun passes directly through the center of the square opening in the Temple of the Seven Dolls (AKA Temple of the Sun), the site’s main building.
Dzibilchaltun Ruins Tips
- Book your Dzibilchaltun Ruins tours here
- Dzibilchaltun means writing on flat stones in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Dzibilchaltun? Yes
- Dzibilchaltun Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Dzibilchaltun Admission: $227 pesos ($11 USD)
- Dzibilchaltun Parking: $20 pesos ($1 USD)
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
18. Mayapan Ruins
Visiting Mayapan Ruins
As an off the beaten path Mayan ruins site, you may have the whole place to yourself.
There are several structures here, including a large, central pyramid resembling the Temple of Kukulcan (El Castillo) at Chichen Itza. It is called the Castle of Kukulcan and stands 50-feet-tall (15 m).
There is also a large round structure, The Observatory, which you won’t find at other Yucatan Mayan ruins sites.
This structure more closely resembles the round Tollan Toltec Ruins, seen in the city of Tula near Mexico City, and historians say Mayapan has a Mayan-Toltec connection.
Wondering about the best Aztec ruins Mexico has? The Templo Mayor in Centro Historico (Historic Downtown Mexico City) and Teotihuacan Ruins just outside the city, are two of the best.
Mayapan is said to be the last Mayan city ever built and inhabited, before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors.
It was one of the most important pre-Columbian cities in Yucatan, along with Uxmal and Chichen Itza — though it sees far less visitors than both.
The Mayapan Yucatan Ruins are located in the city of Tecoh, just 28 miles (45km) southwest of Merida.
When visiting, combine it with a swim in any of the 25 or so cenotes near Mayapan, like Cenote Telchaquillo, Cenote Nah Yah, Cenote Noh-Mozon and Cenote Suem.
Mayapan Ruins Tips
- Mayapan means flag/banner of the Mayan people in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Mayapan? Yes
- Mayapan Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Mayapan Admission: $40 pesos ($2 USD)
- Mayapan Parking: $20 pesos ($1 USD)
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
19. Xcaret Mayan Ruins (AKA Polé Ruins, The Playa del Carmen Mayan Ruins of Mexico)
Visiting Xcaret Ruins
Located inside of the Xcaret Park, the Pole Mayan ruins (pronounced pole-lay), are the best Mayan ruins Playa del Carmen has.
Seeing them is really only worth it if you’re spending the day at Xcaret, which is one of the best things to do in Playa del Carmen.
Located 15 minutes away, Xcaret is a Mexican amusement park meets water park.
It has more than 50 attractions including cenotes to swim in, Voladores de Papantla Flyers, the beloved Xcaret Nighttime Show, an elaborate series of dance and cultural performances, and Mayan ruins.
As far as the Pole ruins themselves, they date back to about 1400 AD.
They were the once-home to a Mayan community dedicated entirely to maritime trade, and their position right on the Caribbean Sea made this possible.
🏩 For a unique experience, stay at one of these amazing Hotel Xcaret resorts.
Aside from the Xaman-Há Ruins on Playacar Beach, Pole is the closest Mayan Ruins to Playa del Carmen, Mexico, and a must-visit when staying in Playa del Carmen.
Xaman-Há, though small, is one of the few Mayan ruins in Riviera Maya still remaining.
Xcaret Ruins Tips
- Buy your Xcaret tickets here
- Polé means merchandise/goods in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Xcaret Ruins? Yes
- Xcaret Ruins Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Xcaret Ruins Admission: $40 pesos ($2 USD); this is paid separate from the Xcaret Park entrance
- Xcaret Ruins Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mxico
20. San Gervasio Ruins: Best Cozumel Ruins
Visiting San Gervasio Ruins
As these aren’t in Playa del Carmen, they are just across the Caribbean Sea — so they are the best ruins near Playa del Carmen for sure!
For those headed to Cozumel Island, this is the best place to learn about Mayan history.
To get to the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, take the Playa del Carmen to Cozumel ferry for a nice day trip on the beautiful island of Cozumel, Mexico.
Known for having the best snorkeling in Mexico, back on land, you’ll want to visit the Mayan Ruins of San Gervasio, or Tantun Cuzamil in the Maya language.
🏩 Looking to stay overnight? Check out all the best hotels in Cozumel.
Though a smaller site, San Gervasio are the best Mayan ruins in Cozumel, Mexico.
They are located in the center of the island, and built to honor the Mayan moon goddess, Ix Chel, just like the ruins on Isla Mujeres. In centuries past, Mayan women made pilgrimages here to worship her.
There are plenty of things to see, including the Templo Nohoch Nah, Templo Ka’na Nah de Ixchel and more, all connected to one another by a series of roads called scabes.
As it’s not huge, you can explore the Mayan Ruins San Gervasio on Cozumel Island in about one hour.
San Gervasio Ruins Tips
- Book your Cozumel tours here
- Tantun Cuzamil means flat rock in the place of the swallows in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at San Gervasio? No, there aren’t any large structures
- San Gervasio Hours: Open daily, 9am-5pm
- San Gervasio Admission: $90 pesos ($5 USD)
- San Gervasio Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mxico
21. Kohunlich Ruins: Best Lake Bacalar Mayan Ruins of Mexico
Visiting Kohunlich Ruins
Located about an hour southwest of the popular travel destination of Bacalar, Mexico, you’ll find the Kohunlich Mayan Ruins (pronounced ko-hoon-leach).
It is a popular day trip from Bacalar, and also Mahahual, one of the best beaches in Yucatan, located just two hours away.
The Mayan Ruins Kohunlich site is quite large, at about 20 acres.
It is located in the jungle surrounded by trees and lush vegetation, and you’ll often hear the howler monkeys that call this jungle home making noise off in the distance.
There are a few buildings to explore at Kohunlich, including the Temple of the Masks. This pyramid was built in about 500 AD and has a central staircase adorned with five different 8-foot-tall (2.5 m) masks.
There’s also the Residential Buildings, with the ancient Mayan beds they slept on.
Kohunlich Ruins Tips
- Book your Kohunlich Ruins tours here
- Kohunlich means hill full of corzos in Maya, in reference to the corozo palm trees at the site
- Can you climb the pyramids at Kohunlich? Yes
- Kohunlich Hours: Open daily, 8am-4:30pm
- Kohunlich Admission: $75 pesos ($4 USD)
- Kohunlich Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
22. Chacchoben Ruins
Visiting Chacchoben Ruins
Chacchoben (pronounced cha-cho-ben) is among the most visited of all Mayan ruins Costa Maya has.
The “Mayan Coast” is located near the popular cruise destination of Mahahual, Mexico, and many cruise ships take visitors here for a day trip to see the ruins.
There are two groups of structures to see here, including three excavated and restored pyramids — with the largest one containing Mayan hieroglyphic writing.
As Chacchoben is surrounded by jungle, you can see everything from roaming iguanas to spider monkeys.
Chacchoben Ruins Tips
- Book your Chacchoben Ruins tours here
- Chacchoben’s original Maya name is unknown
- Can you climb the pyramids at Chacchoben? No
- Chacchoben Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Chacchoben Admission: $60 pesos ($3 USD)
- Chacchoben Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
23. Calakmul Ruins: Best Campeche Mayan Ruins of Mexico
Campeche, Mexico, is one of the three states that make up the Yucatan Peninsula (with Quintana Roo and Yucatan State).
It is the least visited of the three, but has some amazing Mayan ruins, and a colorful capital city, Campeche City — a walled city and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visiting Calakmul Ruins
The Calakmul Mayan Ruins (pronounced cah-lack-mool) was the largest Mayan city in Campeche State.
It is also one of the best off the beaten track Mexico destinations, and worth a visit, even though it’s not easy to get to.
Given Calakmul’s remote jungle location, many travelers don’t even know it exists.
It is located about five hours by rental car from the closest major city, Campeche City, including a two hour drive from the nearest main road into the jungles of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve.
🏩 Visiting Calakmul? Book at least one night in Hotel Casa Maya Calakmul, as these ruins are not advisable as a day trip.
However, the trek is definitely worth it. Calakmul is a UNESCO World Heritage Site,with two very large pyramids you can climb.
The largest one, Structure 2, is more than 148-feet-tall (45m), and the tallest Mayan pyramid on Earth.
Structure 1 is a bit smaller, but still offers incredible views of the surrounding jungle from the top.
After ascending these pyramids, you’ll be looking out over all the trees that surround the site; seeing it from a perspective you could never have imagined from the ground.
Calakmul Ruins Tips
- Chacchoben’s original Maya name is unknown
- Can you climb the pyramids at Chacchoben? No
- Chacchoben Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Chacchoben Admission: $60 pesos ($3 USD)
- Chacchoben Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
24. Becan Ruins
Visiting Becan Ruins
Though not too far from Calakmul, the Becán Mayan Ruins are much easier to get to and see far more visitors since there are daily tours to Becan.
While they are located in Campeche state, Becan is a popular day trip from other parts of Yucatan, like Bacalar Lagoon.
Becan is actually a very large site, with 20 or so structures. The largest pyramid stands at about 90-feet-tall (27m), and offers amazing views of the entire site from the top.
There are other pyramids and plaza-style structures, with rooms you can walk into and explore.
Becan Ruins Tips
- Becan means canyon/ravine formed by water in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Becan? Yes
- Becan Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Becan Admission: $65 pesos ($3.50 USD)
- Becan Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
25. Edzna Ruins
Visiting Edzna Ruins
Located closer to Campeche City than the other two Campeche ruins listed above, there are many Edzná tour options if you don’t have a rental car.
You can also find great day trips from Merida to Edzna; though they are in different states, it’s only about 2.5 hours from Merida to Edzna.
Of all Mexico pyramids, Edzna is one of the most beautiful.
The central structure, called the Temple Building of Five Stories, has five levels and stands 131-feet-tall (40 m).
Though you can’t climb this one, there are others you can, like the Small Acropolis and The Palace.
The Temple of the Masks is another amazing structure, only recently excavated in 1988.
This building has two distinct masks located on the base of the temple: one representing the Mayan Sunrise God, located on the east side, and the other, the Sunset God, located on the west side.
Edzna Ruins Tips
- Edzna means House of the Itzás in Maya, in reference to the Itzá peoples (as in Chichén Itzá)
- Can you climb the pyramids at Edzna? Yes, except the Great Acropolis pyramid
- Edzna Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Edzna Admission: $55 pesos ($3 USD)
- Edzna Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
26. Chicanna Ruins
Visiting Chicanna Ruins
Chicanná is the least-visited of all the Campeche Mayan ruins on this list, but it’s worth a visit if you’re headed to the Becán Ruins.
In fact, there are about 45 Mexican Mayan ruins sites in this area, the Rio Bec Region, though most are small and won’t have the visual impact of the larger sites.
The most important building at Chicanna Mayan Ruins is Structure II AKA The House of the Serpent.
To enter this impressive structure, you’ll walk through a doorway that resembles an open-mouthed snake, complete with teeth and eyes!
Chicanna Ruins Tips
- Chicanna means mouth snake house in Maya, as it was named after the main temple
- Can you climb the pyramids at Chicanna? No
- Chicanna Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Chicanna Admission: $55 pesos ($3 USD)
- Chicanna Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
27. Palenque Ruins: Best Chiapas Mayan Ruins of Mexico
Visiting Palenque Ruins
Lakam Ha is the Maya name of Palenque (pronounced pah-lan-kay), one of the best Mayan Ruins in Mexico.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Palenque pueblo magico (Mexico magic town), about four hours from the top Chiapas travel destination of San Cristobal de las Casas.
Some of the most notable Palenque pyramids include:
- Templo de las Inscripciones (Temple of the Inscriptions)
- Templo del Conde (Temple of the Count)
- El Palacio (The Palace)
- Tumba de la Reina Roja (Tomb of the Red Queen)
- Templo de la Calavera (Temple of the Skull)
Since the Palenque Ruins are quite remote and in a small town, you may want to consider staying the night at one of these best Palenque hotels to explore the town beyond the ruins.
If not, there are long day trips from San Cristobal de las Casas that last 12-16 hours.
Palenque Ruins Tips
- Book your Palenque Tours here
- Lakam Ha means the place of the great waters in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Palenque? Yes
- Palenque Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Palenque Admission: $110 pesos ($5.50 USD)
- Palenque Parking: Free in their on-site lot
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
28. Bonampak Ruins
Visiting Bonampak Ruins
This is a smaller Mayan ruins site, best known for the very well preserved murals at Bonampak, which date back to 790 AD — making them about 1,250 years old!
Besides the murals, there are some nice ruins at Bonampak, which is located not far from the Yaxchilan Ruins (#29 on this list).
Perhaps no single artifact from the ancient New World offers as complex a view of Pre-hispanic society as do the Bonampak paintings.
Professor Mary Miller, Yale University
However, the real stars of the show are the Bonampak frescos, which make this among the most interesting Mayan Ruins in Mexico.
The paint is still bright in color and seeing this type of painted pyramid outside of Egypt is a real treat.
Bonampak Ruins Tips
- Book your Mayan Ruins Tours to Bonampak & Yaxchilan here
- Bonampak means painted wall in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Bonampak? No
- Bonampak Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Bonampak Admission: $55 pesos ($3 USD)
- Bonampak Parking: Free in their on-site lot, though it is recommended to visit with a tour
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
29. Yaxchilan Ruins
Visiting Yaxchilan Ruins
Yaxchilan Mayan Ruins are especially fun to get to because you have to go by boat (they aren’t accessible by ground or public transportation).
That’s right, you’ll head down the Usumacinta River, located at the Mexico-Guatemala border near Central America, to reach the site.
Along the way you’ll marvel at the interesting Chiapas State landscapes, and flora and fauna — as this is one of the most biodiverse states in Mexico.
Once you arrive to the Yaxchilan Archeological Site, there is so much to see.
The area is broken up into three areas: the Great Plaza, Grand Acropolis and Small Acropolis, with a total of 120 structures between the three zones.
It is said some local Lacandon Maya people still use this site for ritual to this day.
Yaxchilan Ruins Tips
- Book your Mayan Ruins Tours to Bonampak & Yaxchilan here
- Yaxchilan means green stones in Maya
- Can you climb the pyramids at Yaxchilan? No
- Yaxchilan Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- Yaxchilan Admission: $55 pesos ($3 USD)
- Yaxchilan Parking: It is recommended to visit with a tour, since you’ll need to take a boat to get there
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
30. El Tajin Ruins: Best Veracruz Mayan Ruins of Mexico
Visiting El Tajín Ruins
Located in the Mexico state of Veracruz, El Tajín is mostly off the beaten path, but such a fascinating site.
It is also a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it was once among the largest and most important cities of the Classic Era of Mesoamerica, until it was abandoned in about 1200.
🇲🇽 Mexico Fact: It is said Cortez and the Spanish conquest fighters landed on the shores of Veracruz State.
For those who love to seek out Mexico hidden gems, the El Tajin Mayan Ruins will really wow you with their massive scale and uniquely-carved stone pyramids.
If you plan to visit, you’ll also want to check out the nearby town of Papantla, Veracruz, known for the Voladores de Papantla ritual.
El Tajín Ruins Tips
- Book your Mayan Ruins Tours to El Tajin here
- El Tajin means of thunder or lightning bolt in Maya, named after Totonac, the Mayan rain god
- Can you climb the pyramids at El Tajin? No
- El Tajin Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
- El Tajin Admission: $80 pesos ($4 USD)
- El Tajin Parking: Free in their on-site lot, though it is recommended to visit with a tour
Best Mayan Ruins in the World
Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala
Tikal, a complete ancient Mayan city, is the largest Mayan Ruins site ever discovered in all Latin America, including North America and Central America.
It is located in the rainforests of Northern Guatemala, and historians say it’s more than 2,000 years old.
The best part of visiting is being able to see Tikal Temple I (AKA The Great Jaguar Tikal Temple), one of the most beautiful Mayan Ruins on Earth!
At an impressive 230-feet-tall (70 m), the Tikal Jaguar Temple is the tallest Mayan temple on the Americas Continent.
Copan Mayan Ruins in Honduras
Not far from the Guatemala border, you’ll find the Copan Ruins in Honduras — the most important Mayan Ruins in Honduras.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site was discovered in 1570 by Diego García de Palacio, and ranks as one of the most important Mayan civilization sites discovered to date.
Best Mayan Ruins in El Salvador
Mayan Ruins can be seen throughout Mexico and Central Mexico — as this whole area once encompassed the Mayan World.
Across the border from Honduras in El Salvador, don’t miss these amazing Mayan ruins: El Tazumal, Joya de Ceren, Cihuatan, San Andres, and Casa Blanca.
Best Aztec Ruins in Mexico
Teotihuacan Ruins Near Mexico City
Located about an hour from Mexico City, one of the largest cities on Earth, you’ll find the Teotihuacan Pyramids.
The ruins at Teotihuacan tie with Chichén Itzá for the most visited ruins in Mexico; both get about two million visitors each year.
Teotihuacan dates back to the mysterious Teotihuacanos prehispanic civilization, though the Toltecs and Aztecs eventually inhabited this ancient city.
Today, you can tour the site by land and air — and Teotihuacan hot air balloon tours are truly a Mexico bucket list experience.
Monte Alban Ruins in Oaxaca Mexico
No visit to beautiful Oaxaca City, located in Southern Mexico, is complete without seeing the Monte Alban Ruins.
They are located only about 30 minutes from downtown Oaxaca City, and one of the best things to do in Oaxaca.
Both Downtown Oaxaca City itself and the ruins are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico.
Monte Alban Oaxaca is located high atop a mountain, and offers spectacular views of the towns in the valleys below.
Best Mayan Ruins of Mexico: FAQ
Where are the Mayan Ruins in Mexico located?
Southeastern Mexico — While most of the Mayan Ruins sites that have been discovered are in the Yucatan Peninsula (including Chichen Itza Ruins), there are also Mayan ruins in neighboring states like Chiapas and Veracruz.
🗺️ BONUS: Mayan Ruins of Mexico Map
Want to know exactly where the best Mayan Ruins in Mexico are located?
While most of the best Mayan Ruins of Mexico are located in the Yucatan Peninsula, there are some located near the peninsula, like the El Tajín and Palenque Mayan Ruins.
Every place mentioned in this article has been pinned to this Mexico pyramids map, so you can easily locate all the amazing Mayan ruins in Yucatan and the rest of Mexico.
What is the most famous Mayan Ruins in Mexico?
Chichen Itza — One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is not only the most famous Mexico Mayan Ruins, but also the most famous Mayan Ruins in the world.
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
Where are most Mayan Ruins located?
Yucatan Peninsula — The majority of Mayan Ruins in Mexico are in the Yucatan Peninsula. This area consists of three states: Quintana Roo State, Yucatan State and Campeche State.
Which Mayan Ruin is the best to visit?
It’s always subjective as to which each person thinks is the “best.” However, some of the most populat and most-visited Mayan Ruins in Mexico include Chichen Itza, Tulum Ruins, and Palenque Ruins.
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
What is so special about the Mayan Ruins?
With some sites dating back about 3,000 years ago, the Mayan Ruins of Mexico and Central America are important for their historical significance, complicated architecture and design, and because they help us understand the mysterious Mayan culture.
Is it safe to visit the Mayan ruins in Mexico?
For the most part, it is safe to visit the Mexican Mayan Ruins. The Yucatan Peninsula, where most ruins are located, is known to be one of the safest parts of Mexico.
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
Why can’t you climb the Mayan Ruins?
You can actually climb some of them, like Uxmal, Coba and Palenque. However, of those you can’t, it’s because some are more delicate than others, and letting people climb up these monuments can lead to irreversible damage.
Can you climb Chichen Itza Pyramid?
No — It is not permitted to climb any structures at Chichen Itza, though there are a few people each year who make headlines for doing so.
If you’ve seen such things in the news lately and are wondering, What happened to the tourist that climbed the Mayan pyramid? It is illegal to do so, and these people are often issued a fine for breaking the law.
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
Are the Mayan Ruins worth visiting?
Yes — When in Mexico, you absolutly want to check out the Mayan Ruins! These impressive sites are fascinating for their history, architecture and symbolism, and give you such a unique glimpse into ancient Maya culture.
How much does it cost to go to the Mayan Ruins?
It varies — Admission to some Mexican Maya Ruins is free, while for some, it can cost up to $40 USD to enter. Of them all, Chichen Itza admission is the highest.
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
What do you wear to the Mayan Ruins?
There is no specific dress code for Mayan Ruins, however, comfortable sneakers or sandals and athletic-style clothing are the norm. Also, a sun hat and sunglasses will come in handy at these sites.
Is Mexico Mayan or Aztec?
Both — The Yucatan Peninsula in southeastern Mexico is where you will find Mayan Ruins, while in Central Mexico, you’ll find Aztec Ruins.
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
6 Tips for Visiting Mexican Mayan Ruins
1. Rent a Car
As you may have noticed on the Mayan Ruins Mexico Map in this article, many of the best Mayan ruins are a bit off the beaten path.
For this reason, the easiest and most convenient way to reach them is by renting a car in Mexico and driving to them on a great day trip.
Ready to book your Mexico car rental? I recommend, and personally use, Discover Cars anytime I need a car rental in Mexico. ▶︎ BOOK YOUR CAR NOW!
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
2. Go with a group tour
If you don’t plan to drive, consider a tour of the Mexico Mayan Ruins.
To be frank, if you don’t have a qualified guide explaining all the interesting and rich history of the site — you’re essentially just looking at piles of rocks.
I always book my Mexico tours with Viator and Airbnb Experiences, but make sure you take the time to look at ratings and read reviews.
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
3. What to pack for Mexico Mayan Ruins
Now that your rental car or tour is squared away, you’re probably wondering what to pack for Mexico.
When including the Mayan ruins of Mexico on your travel itinerary, don’t forget to add a sun hat, sunglasses, comfy shoes, breathable cotton clothing, and these items to your Mexico packing list:
1. Water-To-Go Bottle
This will keep you hydrated and filter your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico. 🤑 SAVE 15% on all orders with code SOLO15.
2. Water Buffalo Hydration Backpack
These offer a book bag and water bottle all in one — the perfect practical accessory for a long day of exploring Mexico Mayan ruins.
3. bullfrog Anti-Bug Eco Sunscreen
The Mayan Ruins in Mexico are hot year-round, and most don’t have shade to escape under. Besides that, they are located in jungles, so expect mosquitoes.
4. Come with cash
In Mexico, cash is still king. Besides that, since many of the Mayan ruins in Mexico are in a remote location, they can’t process credit card transactions.
Even at ruins that take credit cards for your entrance payment, if you need anything inside, like water, snacks and souvenirs, you’ll need pesos.
5. Get a Mexico SIM card
- 3GB Cellular Data (at full 4G/LTE speeds) valid for 30 days starting at your arrival in Mexico
- Unlimited Calls and SMS (only text) in Mexico, USA or Canada
- Can also be used in USA and Canada for Data, Calls and SMS
- Unlimited Social Networks (Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat)
- LTE capable (LTE Coverage is available in most cities and touristic areas)
As mentioned a few times now, most Mayan Ruins in Mexico are off the beaten path.
The best way to ensure you have a signal is by using a Telcel Mexico SIM Card. This is Mexico’s largest cell service provider, so using their SIM ensures you have the best coverage in the most locations.
best mayan Ruins of Mexico
6. Get Mexico travel insurance
Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.
If Mexico safety is on your mind, get your FREE quote below from World Nomads and Safety Wing, two of the biggest names in travel insurance.
- World Nomads: Perfect for those who want to do adventurous activities while traveling — like climbing Mayan ruins in Mexico!
- Safety Wing: Ideal for general travel coverage, and for digital nomads who travel for extended periods of time.
Final Thoughts: Best Mayan Ruins of Mexico
With closer to 200 public Mayan Ruins in Mexico, this list just scratches the surface — though it does highlight many of the most popular Mayan ruins in Yucatan and beyond.
📍 Wondering where the Mayan Yucatan ruins are located? Use this Mayan Ruins in Mexico map to find them all.
For most, no Mexico vacation in Yucatan is complete without visiting Chichen Itza. This is the most popular, as it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, though there are other UNESCO Mayan ruins in Mexico that have the distinction as well, like Palenque Ruins and Uxmal Ruins.
Some sites, like the Mayan Ruins in Coba near Tulum, are large and many will rent a bike to explore it all. At about 50 miles in size (80 km), this is among the biggest Mayan Ruins in Mexico.
There are also smaller, off the beaten path sites like Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins, located just 30 minutes from Merida, Mexico — known as the Mayan Cultural Capital of Yucatan.
When visiting, keep in mind these are important and holy sites for the Mexican Mayans who still live near them.
Please act in a respectful manner no matter which ones you visit — unlike this tourist who climbed Chichen Itza Pyramid 🤦♀️ which is illegal to do.