Preparing for your visit to an archaeology site in Mexico

Many of the archaeology sites are situated in remote areas which may also be exposed to the elements.  Preparing for your visit and considering what you take with you on the day can help to make your visit more enjoyable, avoid inconveniences, and prevent accidents.

Opening days and times

Except for the country’s most popular archaeology sites which are open 365 days a year, sites and museums across Mexico are closed on Mondays.  Archaeology sites open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Chichen Itzá and Uxmal offer an after-dark ‘light and sound’ show which begins around 8 or 9 p.m.—check locally for details.

Entry fees

INAH is Mexico’s government institution responsible for the management of the country’s museums and archaeological treasures, and charges a set fee of between $65 and $85 pesos (US$3.25-$4.25) for entry to all archaeology sites and museums nationwide, depending on the ‘category’ of the site.

Some states, notably in the Yucatán region, levy additional charges for entry.

If you are a foreign resident in Mexico, you might be granted access for no charge or at a discount, depending on the policy of the site or museum. You must present your Mexican residency card at the entrance to qualify.

Entry to museums and archaeology sites is free to Mexican nationals and legal foreign residents on Sundays. (Thus, Sunday is always the most crowded day of the week at these places.)

Sun protection

Mexico’s sun is intense year-round, and it’s important to protect yourself and your family from the sun’s UV rays when you visit archaeology sites.  Some locations, like Palenque in the state of Chiapas, offer some natural shade from the sun through the presence of trees and other natural foliage on-site; however, most sites are exposed and offer little or no shade from the sun.

We recommend you take a suitable hat to wear, and use sun block or wear long sleeves and pants (dress light to avoid overheating).  Some people take umbrellas (parasols) with them, which can be very effective when you’re walking on the ground, but it’s best not to have these open when ascending or descending from buildings and structures. (See ‘Steep Climbs’ below for more details about the risks.)

Drinking water

Take drinking water with you to stay hydrated on your visit; this is especially important in jungle regions and exposed areas, where a combination of the heat, humidity, and/or elevation can quickly dehydrate your body and put your health at risk.  If you forget to take water, you can purchase bottles from the local stores, market stalls, or ambulant vendors near the site.

Appropriate footwear for walking and climbing

Most archaeology sites are situated in Mexico’s rural wilderness, with uneven ground, rocky paths, and ancient structures which are characterized by steep, narrow steps and pathways which can be awkward to negotiate.

Flip-flops and other loose footwear are not recommended: the accidents that occur every year at Mexico’s archaeology parks are often due to visitors wearing inadequate footwear causing injury through slips and falls.

Protect your feet and mitigate the risks of slips, sprains and falls by using good quality footwear that will deliver a decent grip on rough terrain, and protect your ankles in the event of a slip.

Robust footwear is especially important if you’re climbing structures—if you slip and fall on steep narrow steps you could become seriously injured; falls from high structures can also be fatal.  During the rainy season, when the structures can become drenched in rain, steps and pathways can become extremely slippery.

Steep climbs

Some of the archaeology sites allow visitors to climb the pyramids and other structures.  This opportunity provides good exercise and, when you get to the top of a tall structure, you’re also rewarded with extraordinary views across the site and across the local landscape.

Precautions when ascending and descending

When you climb the ancient structures, we recommend to take some sensible precautions as described below—and which might seem obvious, but every year accidents happen when people ignore these tips:

• Keep in mind that the climbs up are usually steep, and the steps leading up to the top are often narrow.
• You will need to be physically fit to be able to climb the stone structures, and you should ensure that you’re wearing adequate footwear (see above) to mitigate your risks of slips and falls. Inappropriate footwear is the most common cause of accidents.
• Be mindful of your body’s balance when ascending and descending structures, especially on acute stairwells. Items you carry that may hang from your body (e.g. backpacks) can alter your center of gravity, especially if they are heavy, and may cause you to fall.
• Keep your hands and arms free. Store away phones, cameras, or any other gadget or item you might be carrying and focus instead on your balance and footing as you ascend/descend.
• Use ropes and handrails where these are provided.
• If you carry a parasol for sun protection keep it shut when you ascend and descend any structure; an open parasol blocks yours and others’ views including your footing, and a sudden wind can be potentially lethal if you’re holding an open parasol and it causes you to fall.

Insect repellent

Mosquitoes, wasps, and a plethora of other bugs make their home in the areas where many of the archaeological sites are situated.  How affected you may be by these will depend on the location and the season; however, the irritations caused by insects can be mitigated by wearing long-sleeve shirts and trousers, and/or applying insect repellent to your skin.

If you forgot to pack repellent, repelente de insectos is readily available from local pharmacies and supermarkets: you can buy the synthetic ingredient brands, e.g. “Off,” as well as natural-ingredient brands often called “Citronella”—relating to the citrus oils they use in the formula.

Avoiding the crowds

The most popular archaeology sites become crowded from about 11 a.m. each day—when the day-tour buses arrive.  If you want to experience a popular  archaeology site amidst a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere, arrive early—doors open at 8 a.m.

Some sites, like Chichen Itzá and Uxmal have hotels/inns situated adjacent to the park—an ideal base for an overnight stay with ready access to the site long before the crowds arrive.

Mind the wildlife

You may see local wildlife roaming throughout the sites —iguanas are particularly prevalent in the Yucatán— other species can include Spider Monkeys, snakes and exotic birds.  They usually keep away from humans, and they too should be left to their own devices: don’t feed, touch, or disturb any wildlife you may encounter, some of which are protected species.

Archaeological artifacts

It’s highly illegal to remove any artifacts, trinkets, or objects from Mexican archaeology sites, and from the country itself. Don’t risk trying to collect genuine archaeological pieces on your visit.  If you’re caught, the fines are stiff and jail sentences can be imposed in more serious cases.

Ambulant vendors and market stalls

Some of the more popular sites have ambulant vendors roaming the areas outside (sometimes inside) the site itself, selling a range of souvenirs as well as other practical items like bottled water, parasols, and sun cream.  Take some cash with you as the local vendors and market stalls don’t accept credit or debit cards.

Cameras and video equipment

You can take cameras and smart phones with you for use inside archaeological sites and museums; although if you want to take a tripod or professional video equipment, you will need to apply and pay for a special permit, that you request at INAH, or via a Mexican consulate if you are applying from abroad.  See Mexico Essentials: Video and Photography for details.

Use of drones at archaeology sites

The latest travel accessory for some visitors is a drone—to fly and take video and/or pictures from the sky above.  INAH prohibits the use of drones at all archaeology sites across Mexico and has signs posted to warn visitors about this regulation.  If you have a drone, don’t take it to the archaeology site as using it there may result in its confiscation.

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At its zenith, Cholula was the second largest city in the land after Tenochtitlán. It is thought to have been an important religious and cultural center at the time. The city fell to the Olmecs sometime around 600AD, and again to the Toltecs about three hundred years later. By the time Hernán Cortés arrived—during the early part of the 16th Century—the city was under Aztec influence.

Cholula is well known for its archaeology park, which is host to Mexico’s largest pyramid – Pirámide Tepanapa – which is also the world’s largest pyramid by volume: bigger, in that sense, than the Great Pyramid of Cheops in Egypt.

Another feature of Cholula is the number of churches situated here.  According to legend, Hernán Cortés ordered 365 of them to be built after the Cholulans conspired with the Aztecs in a failed attempt to ambush him.  In actual fact, the town has about forty-five churches—a significant number in relation to its size and population.

In addition to the archaeology park and churches, Cholula offers several cultural attractions, including museums and the Franciscan Library, situated in the grounds of the Ex Convento de San Gabriel; beautifully restored and stocking some 24,000 tomes of public works dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

Charismatic local markets, handicraft stores, access to fine Talavera pottery and local artwork, as well as guided tours to the ‘must see’ villages of Tonantzintla and Acatepec are some of the other attractions on offer to visitors here.

There is something else which attracts visitors to Cholula: a close-up view of Mexico’s two most famous volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl.  The best views are usually offered in the morning, before the heat of the day creates mist and clouds which obscure the view.  By staying overnight at one of Cholula’s hotels, you may enjoy the experience of watching the sun rise and illuminate peaks of these breathtaking and majestic volcanic mountains.

For a complete introduction to this unique and historically important town, read the Mexperience Guide to Cholula

When Chichen Itzá was voted as one of the New Wonders of The World in 2007, the publicity which surrounded this anointment served to attract even more visitors to the park. From about 9 a.m. onward each day, the tour buses begin to arrive. The ruins are also situated in the jungle, so not only do visitor numbers swell, the heat of the day begins to take hold, making exploration of the park less pleasurable and more tiring as the day wears on.

Similarly, although less, popular than Chichen Itzá, the remarkable ancient city of Uxmal near Merida, attracts many visitors on tour buses along the Ruta Puuc.

If you really want to experience Chichen Itzá and Uxmal properly, the best way to accomplish this is by staying overnight at one of the hotels situated right next-door to the park. This way, you by-pass the malaise of the tour-bus crowds and enjoy the comfort of the facilities and services the hotels have on offer to guests.

You arrive at your hotel in the afternoon, check-in, relax with a cool drink, and perhaps take a refreshing afternoon swim. Some hotels offer spas treatments, too. This gives you space to unwind in the quiet tranquility of the hotel’s grounds before enjoying dinner served in a courtyard surrounded by soft candlelight and lush vegetation.

After a good night’s rest, you wake early to sounds of birdsong: a symphony performed by wild jungle birds, principally tropical Toucans. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast from around 7 a.m. The park opens its doors at 8 a.m.

By entering the park early, you have a couple of hours to really enjoy Chichen Itza, without hordes of people everywhere.

By the time the tour-bus crowds arrive, and the intense heat of the midday sun takes hold, you have seen most of the key features and got some great pictures.

We recommend at least one night at a hotel in Chichen Itzá and/or Uxmal. By staying overnight, you avoid the crowds which gather later in the day, the rush to the entrance, the jockeying for position to take pictures, the jungle heat, and the ‘long’ bus journey back to your hotel at the beach resort.

You might also combine the stay as part of a tour of the Ruta Puuc archaeological sites which include Uxmal, Kabáh, Nohpat, Sayil and Labná.  A tour of these important historical places with local stay-overs will give you deeper appreciation for the history and culture of the ancient Maya civilizations, without the commercial rush of the tour bus circuits.

See Also: Hacienda Uxmal, near Merida

Hacienda Uxmal is a working plantation that offers comfortable and very agreeable accommodations in the heart of the Yucatán jungle.  The property is situated less than a ten-minute walk away from Uxmal archaeology site—the best-known Maya site along the Ruta Puuc.

As we remarked in a related article, staying overnight near the archaeological ruins of Uxmal or Chichen Itzá offers several advantages and helps you to get the most out of your visit to these famous archaeology sites—which are among the most visited in all Mexico.

Practicalities aside, the Hacienda Uxmal is an experience in its own right.  From the midst of a thickly-wooded jungle springs a beautifully planned and well-kept property featuring beautifully appointed rooms surrounded by carefully manicured gardens, and refreshing swimming pool which offers cool refreshment after a long day exploring archaeology ruins.

The hotel features an elegant restaurant on-site offering Mayan, Mexican and International cuisine prepared using fresh local ingredients.  Breakfasts offer a buffet, or choices from an a-la-carte menu.

Uxmal is an easy drive one-hour from Mérida.  Arrive early afternoon and settle-in to your room, wander and relax around the grounds, or take a tour of the remarkable Cacao Museum, run by the hotel just a five-minute walk away.  For an evening of light entertainment, consider the nighttime ‘light and sound’ show at Uxmal which begins around 7:30pm (check times locally) and tickets can be purchased at the hotel’s reception.  Dinner at the elegant restaurant can be taken on the terrace in the evening when the air is cooler.

After an early breakfast, a ten-minute walk will have you at the gates of the Uxmal archaeology park long before the tour buses and crowds arrive.

Hacienda Uxmal also offers a range of other amenities including a spa, an Aztec steam bath (Temazcal), horse riding tours, free use of bicycles, and a games room.  Local tours can be organized from the hotel including outings to local cenotes which offer you an opportunity to swim in fresh water underground pools, situated in remote jungle areas surrounded by natural beauty.

The Choco-Story cacao museum, situated adjacent to the hotel, offers a remarkable and very enjoyable learning experience that tells a detailed history of the cacao-growing and chocolate-making business in Mexico.

You could stay one night and use Hacienda Uxmal as a base to explore the ruins, but a longer stay provides an ideal opportunity to get the most from what the hacienda and surrounding area offers—including a visit to local cenotes, the cacao museum, and other important archaeology sites on the Ruta Puuc.

Uxmal (pronounced “oosh-MAHL”) is said to be among the most attractive of Mexico’s archaeology centers and should be included in any itinerary that intends to visit the most important Maya ruins.

Uxmal was an important city, probably built around 700 AD, although inhabitants are thought to have lived in the area as far back as 800 BC—nearly 1,000 years before the city was built.

It is a mystery as to why a settlement was ever made here: there are no rivers or local sources of water, and no evidence that they once existed. One of the important features of Uxmal are the chultunes (cisterns), which held water for the population to live from, and Chaac, the rain god, features prominently in much of the architecture’s carvings—no doubt an important source of water for the people that lived here.

Within a 10 mile radius of Uxmal are four other smaller ancient ‘towns’ of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, and Labna. Together with Uxmal, these places make up the Ruta Puuc, named after the hills in which these ruins are nestled and the architectural style of the buildings found at this and other Puuc sites.

Uxmal is a delightful archaeological site to explore and experience. During the rain season (May to October) the rich green fertile land provides a perfect setting for some of the most magnificent ancient pyramids, buildings, and temples of the ancient world. You can sense the history here as you walk around and gaze at the stunning architecture and majestic layout of this ancient city.

Key Attractions

The 120-foot high Piramide del Adivino (Magician’s Pyramid) stands majestically above the other buildings, and a climb to its summit will reward you with spectacular views of the entire half-square-mile ancient city.

The Cuadrángulo de las Monjas (Nuns’ Quadrangle) was believed to have been used for military purposes, perhaps an academy or palatial complex.

At the Palacio del Gobernador (Governor’s Palace) you can admire the 300 foot-long facade described by one scholar as the finest structure in Uxmal.

Other attractions include the Juego de Pelota (Games Court) which is nowhere near as large or impressive as the one in Chichen Itza; Casa de las Tortugas (House of the Turtles), one of the smallest buildings, but quaint and interesting all the same and La Gran Piramide (The Great Pyramid), a 100-foot, 9-level structure adjacent to the Governor’s Palace. As is the case with the Magician’s Pyramid, those prepared to climb to the summit of the Great Pyramid will be rewarded with spectacular views.

Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest airport is in Mérida. Further away, but in the same region, is the airport of Cancun. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Uxmal is located about 40 miles southwest of Mérida, and about 250 miles southwest of Cancún. Because of the limited public transport in this area, we recommend you rent a car (see below) to explore the region and especially the Ruta Puuc, if you are not taking a guided tour. Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico on Mexperience.

By Bus – Public transport is very limited in this area in comparison to other regions in Mexico, and most of the buses that pass-by Uxmal are infrequent local transport services, or organized tour buses visiting the Ruta Puuc. To explore this area independently, it’s best to rent a car for your visit. You can find detailed information about car rental and bus transportation here on Mexperience.

Uxmal Essentials

Opening Days & Times: 7 Days a week; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Federal and state admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children, seniors and legal foreign residents (you need to show your residency card).  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency).

Other Nearby Sites: To avoid the tour bus crowds, consider staying overnight at a hotel in Uxmal archaeological park. There are several hotels immediately surrounding the Uxmal Archaeological park. Uxmal is an excellent base for travelers who want to experience the other significant archaeological sites in the vicinity which include: Kabah, Labna, Sayil, Xlapak, Mayapan and the caves, Grutas de Loltun.

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes with a non-slip sole; strong shoes, appropriate for climbing, if you plan to ascend the pyramids. Note: The Magician’s Pyramid is especially steep and extreme care must be taken when climbing this pyramid. This region is very hot and humid year-round, so dress for sweltering weather – see Local Climate, below. See also: Tips for Visiting Mexico’s Pyramids and Archaeology Sites

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (closest)

Colonial Cities: Merida, Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen

Other Archaeological Sites: Chichen Itza, Coba, Tulum

Local Climate

During the late spring and summer, Uxmal is hot with drenching humidity. The rainy season is May through October; fierce afternoon rains last for 2-3 hours and clear in the evening. Dress in light clothes, and carry plenty of water and stay hydrated at all times. Wear high factor sun screen, take a hat and spray on some insect repellent to keep flying creatures at bay.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Chichen Itzá Mexico’s most extensively restored archaeological park, and has always been the most-visited, but since it was voted as one of the New Wonders of The World in 2007, the publicity which surrounded this anointment served to attract even more visitors. The ancient city of Chichen Itzá — which means “the mouth of the well of the Itzás” — is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Mexico.

The archaeological site takes up about four square miles and it will take you all day to see it properly. The temples are laid out in such a fashion that they represent time, akin to an enormous calendar.

Much of the Mayan and Toltec cultures are still a mystery and there is disagreement between scholars over how the Mayas arrived here and their relationships and interactions with the Toltecs. This doesn’t take away from the immense feeling of size and grandeur of this location; even when it is full with tourists, there is so much space that, aside from the main temple which tends to become crowded, you can feel quite relaxed wandering around the park.

Official local guides situated at the site will take you on a tour and explain the history of the site and the Mayan culture.

This region of Mexico gets extremely hot during the peak daytime hours of noon until around 4 pm. Staying at a hotel nearby and starting your tour of the site early in the morning will significantly enhance your experience of Chichen Itzá; see the article: The Best Way to Experience Chichen Itza for details.

Key Attractions

Chichen Itzá has a wealth of features that will take you all day to experience properly. Listed here are a few of the highlights; consult a guide book for further details.

El Castillo

As you enter the site, your first glance will be towards the Piramide de Kukulkan, or Castillo (Castle). This pyramid has 365 steps, 52 panels and 18 terraces. If you visit during the spring or autumn equinox (March 21st and September 21st) you’ll be in for a special treat: The sun’s light touches the steps on the northern side, creating the shadow of a “moving serpent” which glides up the pyramid as the sun moves through the sky.

Juego de Pelota Principal

Juego de Pelota Principal (Principal Ball Court) is the main one of eight ball courts, and the largest games court in all of Mexico’s archaeological sites. Here, you will see the famous stone hoops. It is believed that contestants of pelota (ball) needed to get a stone ball through them during the game.

Templo de Jaguares

To the southeast, you’ll find the Templo de los Jaguares (Temple of the Jaguars) on which you’ll see carved rattlesnakes and jaguars. The murals inside depict an ancient battle.

Tzompantli

Tzompantli—Toltec meaning “Temple of Skulls”— is in between the Temple of Jaguars and the Castle. It was here where heads of those sacrificed were displayed for the gods.

El Caracol

El Caracol (“The Snail” – named because of its circular structure and staircase) is actually an ancient observatory. This structure is an example of how the Maya were obsessed with time and astronomy. This building developed over time and was used by astronomers to accurately measure and record important days in the astronomical calendar, such as the spring and autumn equinox and the solstice.

Chichen Viejo

Chichen Viejo, literally meaning “old Chichen”, is the oldest part of the city; it has some interesting structures which date to the pre-Toltec times. If you stay at the Mayaland Hotel, you can also arrange for a horseback tour through Chichen Viejo.

Sound and Light Show

The Sounds and Lights Show, that is a mixture of colorful lights projected onto the pyramids, Mayan music, and a voice-over with commentary about Maya legends, is worth attending if you are staying overnight at one of the nearby hotels. It starts at around 7:30 p.m. (check times locally); the admission fee is included in the price of your entrance ticket to the site.

Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest airports to Chichen Itzá are Cancún or Mérida. Many travelers to Cancún take a day trip here, although there are some good hotels nearby and if you stay overnight in the area, you’ll see more and enjoy a better experience of the site and area surrounding it. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – Depart frequently from Cancún and Mérida to Chichen Itzá, most often as part of organized tours to the ancient city. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

Chichen Iztá Essentials

Opening Days & Times: 7 Days a week; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission charges apply (check at local tourist office for the latest admission prices.) Multi-lingual guides are available for hire at the ticket booth.

Better Overnight: Chichen Itza is a big tour-bus destination. Since it was nominated as a ‘New Wonder of the World’ in 2007, the center has become extremely busy during the daytime. If you want to miss the crowds and get the most out a visit to this spectacular archaeological park, stay for a night at one of the hotels situated next to the archaeological park and be among the first to enter the park in the morning. It’s by far the best way to experience Chichen Itza.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: You’ll need a good, comfortable pair of walking shoes with a non-slip sole—Chichen Itzá is an extensive archaeological site. Wear light clothes—it gets very hot and humid here. Carry plenty of water, wear a sunhat, and insect repellent is also very useful as this site is located in the jungle. See also: Tips for Visiting Mexico’s Pyramids and Archaeology Sites

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (Closest)

Colonial Cities: Merida (State Capital of Yucatán), Campeche, Villahermosa, Oaxaca

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres

Other Archaeological Sites: Palenque, Tulum, Coba, Uxmal

Local Climate

The local climate is the same as that for Cancun—hot, and humid. Be sure to keep yourself hydrated. The sun here is fierce, especially between midday and 4 pm.   Wear light clothes, sun cream, sun glasses and a hat.   Insect repellent is also useful to keep the mosquitoes at bay; carry and drink plenty of water at all times.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

In the captivating state of Oaxaca, just outside the stunning colonial gem of Oaxaca City lie two magnificent archaeological sites: Mitla and nearby Monte Alban.

Less prestigious than the nearby counterpart of Monte Alban, Mitla lies to the southeast of Oaxaca. You can also visit the nearby and very famous “El Tule” tree—said to be over 2,000 years old—making it as old as some of the archaeological ruins in the area. (The tree is located in a town called Santa Maria del Tule, just a few miles outside of Oaxaca, on the road to Mitla.)

About 27 miles (46 km) southeast of Oaxaca, you’ll find the ruins of Mitla, just outside the town of San Pablo Villa de Mitla.

The ruins are of Zapotec and Mixtec origin, and the architecture here is Mixtec: quadrangle buildings surrounded by patios and chambers and very low roofs.

Mitla was a religious center, run almost entirely by priests who spent most of their time undertaking human sacrifices; often by removing a live heart from the person being sacrificed, and depositing it in a pit of fire as an offering to the gods.

You should only need about an hour or two to see all of the main attractions at this archaeological site. Don’t miss the Iglesia de San Pablo (Church of Saint Paul) in the town of San Pablo Villa de Mitla—with its three domes. You have to walk past it to get to the entrance of the ruins.

Key Attractions

Grupo de las Columnas is the main attraction, which includes the Patio de Mosaicos (Patio of Mosaics), the Sala de las Columnas (Hall of Columns) and the Columna de la Vida (Column of Life).

Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest airport to Mitla is Oaxaca. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Mitla is located about 27 miles (46 km) southeast of Oaxaca. Take Highway 190 South towards San Pablo Villa de Mitla. Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

By Bus – Regular local buses make the trip from Oaxaca to Mitla. The entrance to the ruins are just a little under half a mile behind the main church. Oaxaca is easily accessible by bus from all main cities in the region as well being a fast and efficient journey from Mexico City on a modern, tolled, highway. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

Practical Information

Opening Days & Times: Daily 8 am to 5 pm. Modest admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children and seniors.  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency)

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: Wear comfortable hiking/walking shoes with a non-slip sole. Dress with light clothing that allows your skin to breathe.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (closest)

Colonial Cities: Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Huatulco, Puerto Escondido, Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen

Other Archaeological Sites: Monte Alban, Chichen Itza, Coba, Uxmal, and Tulum

Local Climate

Mitla is hot and humid. Dress with light clothes that enable your skin to breathe. Bring sun cream, insect repellent and a hat.  Take and drink plenty of water at all times.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

In the jungle of Chiapas, nestled on a thickly wooded ridge, is the ancient Mayan city of Palenque (pah-LEN-keh), perhaps Mexico’s most breath-taking archaeological park.

During the Mayan period, it was believed to be one of the most important cities of its day. The name Palenque was given to it by the Spanish; its original name, like so much of Mayan history, is shrouded in mystery.

The architecture and setting is impressive: surrounded by lush tropical forest and jungle, this site has a serene, mystical atmosphere that is apparent from the moment you enter the site.

There is an important thing to keep in mind when you’re wandering around these ruins: everything you see was built without the benefit of metal tools, the horse or the wheel. This place was created exclusively with the tenacity of human labor.

The surrounding forest is home to a huge variety of wildlife, such as the colorful toucan and monkeys, including howling monkeys.

Palenque contained tombs of ancient leaders and rulers, and still today, excavations are on-going to uncover more of the mysteries and enigmas surrounding the ancient civilizations of the Maya. Some of the site remains closed to visitors as work to uncover the hidden treasures, reclaimed by nature over centuries of disuse, continues. A relatively small number of the estimated 500+ buildings present across the site have been excavated.

Palenque is situated between some of Mexico’s principal tourist areas: Oaxaca, San Cristobal de las Casas and Cancun. It’s about an hour and half by road from the city of Villahermosa, which is also the nearest airport. It is too far for a day trip from either Oaxaca, San Cristobal de las Casas or Cancun, as your day will be taken up with traveling there and back and, in any event, it’s far better to stay at one of the nearby hotels and spend an entire day here: the site is extensive, and the trip is worth it.

Key Attractions

The best way to explore the site is to enter through the main (north) entrance, visit the main temples and structures (see notes below) and then wander around the fringe temples.

There is plenty of space at this park, and shade if you need it. Many people enjoy sitting quietly under the shade of a tree, enjoying the serene ambiance. Palenque is not site to be rushed; it’s best enjoyed with plenty of time and at a gentle pace. The humid heat of the jungle will also encourage this.

Once you have explored the park, there is a trail that leads out of the lower (southern) exit: the trail follows the Otrolum stream; it used to be possible to bathe in the waters, but due to abuse by some visitors, this is no longer allowed.

Below is a summary of the main temples and structures; it is not exhaustive but is intended to give you an idea of what awaits you in Palenque.

The principal, and most attractive, ruin is the Templo de las Inscripciones (Temple of Inscriptions). This is the first structure you will see as you climb the hill up to the old city.

Adjacent to this Temple, you’ll find Templo XIII and Templo de las Calaveras (Temple of Skulls) – both are ancient burial temples; the former was only discovered as recently as 1993.

El Palacio (The Palace) is an interesting and intricate maze of courtyards and corridors leading into rooms and includes the distinctive Tower at Palenque, once opened to visitors, but now closed off for safety reasons.

Other Temples and structures of interest include Templo del Jaguar (Temple of Jaguar), Templo de la Cruz (Temple of the Cross), Templo del Sol (Temple of the Sun), Templo XIV, and Templo de la Cruz Foliada (Temple of the Foliated Cross).

There is also an interesting museum on site which records Palenque’s history, as well as artifacts from the site.

Getting There & Around

By Air: Limited flights between Mexico City and Palenque’s airport are available; the nearest major airport with daily flights to Palenque is Villahermosa, and from there you need to take a 2¼ hour road trip to the archaeology park.  For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Car: Palenque is located about 90 miles southwest of Villahermosa. Take Highway 186 from Villahermosa. The road is in good condition, and the journey should take around 2 hours. It’s best to drive it during daylight hours only. Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

By Bus: Regular buses make the trip to Palenque from Villahermosa and San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque. From Palenque local transport (buses / taxi) to the ruins is frequent and very inexpensive. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

Palenque Essentials

Opening Days & Times: 7 Days a week; 8 am to 5 pm.  Modest admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children and seniors.  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency).

Better Overnight: Palenque is a big tour-bus destination. If you want to miss the crowds and get the most out a visit to this, in our opinion Mexico’s best and most awe-inspiring archaeological park, stay for a night or two at one of the hotels situated nearby. It’s by far the best way to experience Palenque.

Accommodation: Because of its location, Palenque is best experienced as part of a local visit to the area with at least one overnight stay; either in Villahermosa or better, in Palenque itself. Palenque is not a realistic day trip from either Oaxaca, San Cristobal de las Casas, and especially not from Cancun.

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological park. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: Comfortable walking/hiking shoes with a non-slip sole are essential here—some of the buildings are steep and high. Wear strong climbing shoes if you plan to ascend the pyramids for the great views they offer. Dress for hot, humid weather. Palenque is in the middle of the jungle so dress using clothes made from light, natural fibers (e.g. cotton); essential accessories include sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and plenty of drinking water. Water bottles can be purchased locally, and there are toilet facilities on-site. See also Local Climate, below.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (closest)

Colonial Cities: Villahermosa, San Cristobal de las Casas, Tuxtla Gutierrez, Oaxaca

Beaches and Resorts in the region: Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Huatulco and Puerto Escondido

Other Archaeological Sites in the region: Chichen Itza, Coba, Uxmal, and Tulum; also Monte Alban and Mitla

Local Climate

Palenque has jungle weather: extremely hot and humid. Dress with light clothes that allow your skin to breathe; natural fibers (cotton) are best; avoid synthetics (e.g. polyester) and denim as you’ll feel very uncomfortable wearing them in this jungle climate. Bring sun screen, insect repellent and a hat. Carry plenty of water (if you forget, bottled water is on sale locally) and stay well hydrated at all times.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

According to legend, the Aztecs were told by a god to find a place where an eagle stood upon a cactus with a snake in its beak, and there, to build their city Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital that was to become epicenter of power for the powerful Aztec Empire.

In 1978, some electricity workers unearthed an 8-tonne stone disc of Coyolxauqui (“Koh-yowl-SHAU-kee”), an Aztec goddess.

Further exploration revealed that there was an entire archaeological wonder lying beneath Mexico City’s streets, and a decision was taken to demolish some old colonial buildings, to reveal the Templo Mayor (Main Temple) and the place where it is believed the Aztecs saw the sign given to them by their gods. Today, it is still Mexico’s national symbol: an eagle perched on a cactus devouring a snake.

It was nine years hence, in 1987, that the museum was officially opened, but people have been visiting the site, even during the digging stages, albeit in limited numbers and in restricted areas.

The Templo Mayor is today a major attraction in the very heart of downtown Mexico City and is one of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites.

If you’re in Mexico City, the Templo Mayor should be high on your list of places to explore and experience.

Key Attractions

The Museo del Templo Mayor has a stunning collection of Aztec artifacts— the best you’ll find anywhere—and they were all dug up from the ruins around the Templo Mayor.

The Templo Mayor itself is an impressive piece of archaeology. The Temple and other structures you see here were some of the first sights Hernán Cortés and his Spanish travelers saw when they arrived at Tenochtitlan nearly 500 years ago.

You may find it more beneficial to visit the covered museum inside the archaeological site before wandering around the ruins, to get a better idea of what the area looked like, as there is a detailed scale model of the old city inside the museum. The covered museum is at the end of the “tour” inside the site, so if you want to do this, make sure you start walking from the “exit”; the museum will be across a small walkway on your right.

Getting There & Around

By Air: The closest airport to Templo Mayor is Mexico City. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Car: Templo Mayor is situated in the heart of Mexico City. We recommend that you do not drive here; traffic congestion is severe and parking is difficult and expensive. The best way to get to Templo Mayor is via the Mexico City metro system. Connect to the Blue Line and alight the train at “Zocalo”. Head to the northeast corner of the capital’s principal plaza to find the entrance to Templo Mayor. See Also: Our guide to the Mexico City Metro system.

By Taxi: If you are adverse to using the metro system, any taxi driver will take you to the downtown area. Ask for “El Zocalo“; riding a taxi may take longer than the metro due to traffic congestion, but you won’t have the hassle with parking and parking charges. See also Traveling by Taxi in Mexico.

Getting to Mexico City: For full information about getting to and around Mexico City, see the Guide to Mexico City on Mexperience.

Templo Mayor Essentials

Opening Days & Times: Tuesday-Sunday 9 am to 5 pm. Modest admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children and seniors.  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency).

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: Wear comfortable walking/hiking shoes with a non-slip sole. Climate is temperate year-round but Mexico City can get hot in the summer months— take sun screen and a hat.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City

Colonial Cities: Cuernavaca, Puebla, Taxco, Queretaro

Nearest Beaches/Resorts: Acapulco

Other Archaeological Sites: Teotihuacán

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Local Climate

The local climate is the same as that for Mexico City – Temperate all year round; can get hotter in the summer months; cooler in the winter, especially mornings and evenings. The rainy season is May-October; drenching rains tend to arrive in the afternoon and last for a 2-3 hours. If you will be exploring Templo Mayor, take sun screen and a hat as even in Mexico City it can get quite hot, especially during the spring and summer months.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Set on a wooded hillside with good views of the surrounding area from its highest points, Tenam Puente, like nearby Chinkultic, was probably a western outpost during the height of the Maya civilization, dating back to the same period as its neighbor, 600AD.

Tenam Puente is derived from the Nauhua meaning “fort” or “fortified place”; The area covers about 2 square kilometers (about one and a quarter square miles) and was an ancient civic ceremonial center.

The most important group of buildings are the Acropolis, at the highest point of this site, offering good views across the area. The Acropolis buildings are built around a series of patios and plazas, conforming with other similar Maya architectures.

Although the site dates back to 600AD, evidence suggests that it was occupied during the early post classic period (900-1200AD), after which it was abandoned; the reasons for which are still unclear.

Key Attractions

It will take you about two hours to see the buildings and enjoy the sights from the highest buildings in Tenam Puente.

As you enter the site, there is a large, open expanse of land—today it has been grassed over—and within this you’ll see some of the ball courts and ancient ruins of Tenam Puente.

Walking past the large open area in the middle, you reach what looks from a distance like a brick wall; it is in fact a steep pyramid like structure that acts as a staircase to the site’s next level.

Once at the top, you’ll find yourself under the cover of trees which gives respite from the heat and intensity of the sun. The site’s two main buildings and temple are up here. Climbing to the top of the largest structure will give you excellent views of the surrounding landscape and other buildings on the site.

Getting There & Around

By Air: The closest airport to Tenam Puente is Tuxtla Gutierrez. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Car: The closest main town to Tenam Puente is Comitan; from there, follow highway 190 for about 10km to reach this archaeological site. There are no regular buses traveling in this area, so we suggest you rent a car to be able to explore the region properly. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can negotiate a price with a local taxi driver to take you to Tenam Puente from Comitan. Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental: To explore the local area around Tenam Puente and Chiapas, consider renting a car locally. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

Taxi: It’s an easy and relatively inexpensive taxi ride from Comitan; for a tip the taxi driver will wait while you enjoy the site and take you back to Comitan afterwards. See also Traveling by Taxi in Mexico.

Tenam Puente Essentials

Opening Days & Times: 7 Days a week; 8 am to 5 pm. Modest admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children and seniors.  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency).

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: You’ll need a good, comfortable pair of walking shoes with a non-slip sole. Wear light clothes—it gets very hot and humid here. Insect repellent is also very useful as this site is located in the jungle. See Climate, below.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (Closest)

Colonial Cities: Comitan, Tuxtla Gutierrez, San Cristobal de las Casas, Villahermosa, Oaxaca

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres

Other Archaeological Sites Nearby: Palenque, Chinkultic, Yaxchilan, Bonampak

Local Climate

The local climate is similar to nearby Comitan. The lake district enjoys a temperate climate and clean, fresh mountain air. Evenings can be cool, as can winter months – so pack some warm clothes in case the weather becomes unsettled; which can happen around here. Rain can also be a feature, so pack a waterproof jacket and hat.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Approximately 30 miles northeast of Mexico City are the ancient city ruins of Teotihuacán.

Like many of the archaeological sites in Mexico, Teotihuacán guards secrets we have yet to unravel. The origins of Teotihuacán are uncertain, although it is thought some of the inhabitants arrived from the Valley of Mexico to the south, refugees from an eruption of the Xitle volcano, which caused major devastation and forced the survivors in the region to seek a new place to settle. Construction of the city probably started in the first two centuries BC, and the civilization reached its high point between 350 and 650 AD.

Scholars in archaeology agree that this is Mexico’s—and perhaps the one of the world’s—most important archaeological sites. It was the largest city in the Americas, and during its heyday around 500 AD, its population was greater than that of Rome at the same time.

One of the greatest mysteries of Teotihuacán is that no one knows where the huge population that lived here eventually ended up. It is as if they vanished without a trace.

This was also a place where human sacrifices were made, often in correlation with astronomical events. When the site was excavated, many tombs were found, some with the remains of what were believed to be people sacrificed to the gods.

Many people today believe that Teotihuacán is a place of great energy, and it is quite common to witness people meditating at the top of main pyramids (The Pyramid of the Sun and The Pyramid of the Moon).

A visit to Teotihuacán is compulsory if you plan to visit Mexico on an archaeological tour; from an historical perspective, it is one of the the most important archaeological places in the world. If you’re in Mexico City or somewhere just north of it, then a visit to see this archaeological site will prove a fascinating and worthwhile experience.

Key Attractions

The original city was about 10 square miles in size; although the ruins only take up about 1 square mile today.

The main avenue, Calzada de los Muertos, (Avenue of the Dead) connects all of the main attractions of this site.

La Ciudadela (The Citadel) is a large square area at the southern end of the site. Inside are various pyramids and structures, with the main feature being the Templo de Quetzalcoatl. The complex was thought to be the residence of Teotihuacan’s main ruler, and also the city’s administrative center.

Mexico has two of the world’s three largest pyramids: The largest is Cheop’s in Egypt; the second largest is the Pyramid of Cholula (see Pictures of Cholula Pyramid), and the third largest is here in Teotihuacán – Pirámide del Sol – The Pyramid of the Sun. Climb to the top for some great views.

La Pirámide de la Luna (The Pyramid of the Moon) stands on the north end of the site; climbing it will take you nearly to the height of the Pyramid of the Sun, but it’s not the same size—it’s built on higher ground.

There are smaller plazas, courtyards, and other Palaces to experience at this archaeological site. Some of the main features include El Palacio de los Jaguares (Palace of Jaguars), Palacio de Quetzapapalotl (Palace of the Quetza Butterfly) and the Palacio de Tepantitla.

Papantla Flyers – At the entrance to the site on the left hand side, you may see a group of men dressed in traditional Indian costume gathering around a tall pole. These are the Voladores de Papantla (Papantla Flyers). They climb the pole, and while one sits on the top playing a flute, four others “fly” down the pole in an anti-clockwise direction, supported by a rope connected to their ankle. The spectacle is repeated several times daily and the team passes a hat around for tips afterwards.

Hot Air Baloon Tours – It’s possible to experience Teotihuacán by hot-air baloon; tours run daily, weather permitting.

Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest airport to Teotihuacan is Mexico City. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Teotihuacan is located about 30 miles northwest of Mexico City. Take Highway 85D northwest out of the city and follow signs to San Juan Teotihuacan. The journey takes about an hour by road. Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

By Bus – Buses make the trip from Mexico City’s north bus terminal to the Pyramids about every 30-60 minutes. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

Practical Information

Opening Days & Times: Open 365 days a year, 9 am to 5 pm. (Teotihuacan is one of the country’s very popular sites which do not close on Mondays.) Modest admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children and seniors.  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency).”

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with a non-slip sole, strong enough to support your feet and ankles if you plan to climb the pyramids. Dress with light clothes that allow your skin to breathe. Keep yourself hydrated: there are plenty of ambulant vendors selling ice-chilled bottled water in the area. Also see Climate, below.

Get to Teotihuacan Early: This is especially important at weekends as many visitors go to the site then and the single lane road that serves the site gets very full on the way in and then again on the way out at peak times. Try to get to the site by 8 am when the doors open; there is less traffic then and the temperatures are cooler, making an exploration of the site more enjoyable. You will also complete the day’s exploration earlier, and avoid the rush of traffic leaving the site later in the afternoon.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City

Colonial Cities: Queretaro, Cuernavaca, Puebla, Taxco, Morelia

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Acapulco

Other Archaeological Sites: Templo Mayor

Local Climate

Teotihuacán is hotter and the sun is significantly more fierce than it is in Mexico City. Be sure to wear light clothes that allow your skin to breathe; take sun screen—you will need it—a hat and sunglasses would be a good idea too. Mosquitoes are not a big nuisance here. Keep drinking water—there are plenty of local vendors selling ice-chilled, purified bottled water.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Yaxchilan (yax-chee-LAN), which means “Place of Green Stones” in Mayan, is a place of wondrous temples, plazas and story-telling carvings and sculptures. Poised on the banks of Rio Usumancinta in Chiapas (bordering neighboring Guatemala), this imposing compound has been swallowed by its jungle surrounding—ceiba and gum trees are home to chatty howler monkeys and toucans. Yaxchilan is where nature and man meet in inspiring harmony.

When visiting spectacular Yaxchilan, you really feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It is the only well-trodden archaeological center in Mexico that cannot be reached by car or bus: you have to take a boat trip from Frontera Corozal—a small town on the banks of Rio Usumacinta (the river that divides Mexico from Guatemala) or much less commonly, fly in from nearby Palenque or Ocosingo landing on the nearby airstrip. The boat trip is the best bet—more exciting and less expensive, too.

During its hey-day (the Late Classical period of 800 to 1000 AD), Yaxchilan developed into a very powerful and influential urban and trade center on the banks of the Usumacinta River. Over 120 structures made up this city, grouped into 3 main areas: the Great Plaza, the Grand Acropolis and the Small Acropolis

The site is best known structurally for its detailed facades and large ornamented roof combs and its lintels, unusually carved on BOTH sides.

Yaxchilan is within a comfortable driving distance from other popular archaeological sites in Chiapas: it makes a convenient side-trip from Bonampak archaeological site as it’s just 31 miles (50km) northeast there. Palenque is about 118 miles (190km) from Yaxchilan and many visitors to Yaxchilan also take advantage of being the area to visit these two other important archaeological sites.

Key Attractions

As you disembark at the site’s pier, you walk up a ramp and into the jungle that stops short on the bank of the river. The entrance to the site takes you through a tunnel under Edificio 19 (Edifice 19), and you break out into the north west corner of the Grand Plaza—an open space overlooking an ancient plaza, surrounded by structures in varying conditions.

On the left as you look across the Plaza from Edificio 19 are a couple of buildings—making up Edificio 17, apparently used in ancient times as a sauna.

A number of Steles (stone blocks) are dotted all over this site as in nearby Bonampak; some of them are carved on both sides and you can see an example of one of these in Edificio 20. These Steles have helped archaeologists to piece together much of the history of the site as their paintings and hieroglyphic inscriptions reveal a lot of information about the life and times of the ancient Maya people who inhabited these lands.

Visit the Steles in the Grand Plaza and continue towards Edificios 5, 8 and 20 on the southwest side of the site; double back to Stele 1, where on the left you’ll see an ancient stairway rising up to a building on the brow of the hill.

The best preserved building in Yaxchilan is Edificio 33, which you have to climb up to see properly and enjoy; there is an ancient stairway to it that rises up from Stele 1. This is the building featured as the main picture of our guide.

There’s a trail that leads behind this building and Edificio 30, and then downhill to the Small Acropolis and Edificios 42,44 & 51; alongside these you’ll also witness some unusual tree formations, where several trees have grown into one!

If you keep walking downhill from here, you’ll end up back on the main trail that led you into the site, beyond the original Edificio 19 that you walked through to arrive on the edge of the Grand Plaza and your tour of Yaxchilan will be complete.

Getting There & Around

By Air: The closest airport to Yaxchilan is Villahermosa and Tuxtla Gutierrez. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus: Although there are some local buses traversing the route from Palenque to Frontera Corozal (the small town where the boats embark), we strongly recommend you take an organized tour or drive here in a car; also see the warnings about traveling after dark. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car: You need to travel to Frontera Corozal on Highway 198 and park your car in town. The town is on the edge of the river Usumacinta, that marks the political divide between Mexico and Guatemala. Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Boat Ride: To reach Yaxchilan, you must take a boat ride from Frontera Corozal. Frontera Corozal is also an eco-center; there’s a good restaurant here where you can eat and drink well and you can also rent rooms for the night in what is an upscale hostel—ask locally for details. If you arrive here by organized tour (see Practical information, below), everything will be taken care of, otherwise you will need to arrange to hire a boat, and you’ll need to negotiate your arrangements in Spanish. The price is the same for however many people travel in the boat, with a modest surcharge for groups over 5 people with up to a maximum of 10 people per boat; if you are traveling in small numbers, it may well be worthwhile finding another small group and sharing the cost. The boat trip is pleasant and takes around 45 minutes each way. You will see plenty of wildlife and may catch a glimpse and sound of the famous howling monkeys that live here. You might even see the odd crocodile or two.

Yaxchilan Pier: Yaxchilan has a small pier where visitors disembark and re embark on the way back to Frontera Corozal.

Best Visited by Organized Tour: Yaxchilan is close to Bonampak and Palenque, and tours offer the opportunity for visitors to travel from Palenque to Yaxchilan via nearby Bonampak as part of a day trip to these sites. Bonampak and Yaxchilan are situated along the frontier highway with Guatemala, Highway 307. Highway 307 must NOT be traveled on after dark. Tours begin early in the morning and return to Palenque by dusk; if you are traveling independently be sure you follow the same schedule. See Yaxchilan Essentials, below for more details and links to tours.

Yaxchilán Essentials

Opening Days & Times: 7 Days a week; 8 am to 5 pm. Modest admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children and seniors.  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency).

Local Tours: Due to their remote locations, Yaxchilan and Bonampak are best visited as part of an organized tour. Tours and activities are organized and run by well-established, professional and fully-insured operators who can help you to get the most from a visit to these archaeological sites.  Contact Mexperience to arrange your customized tour of the area

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: You’ll need a good, comfortable pair of walking shoes with a non-slip sole – Yaxchilan is an extensive archaeological site. Wear light clothes, carry plenty of water and wear a sunhat – it gets very hot and humid here. Insect repellent is essential as this site is located in the jungle. See Local Climate, below.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Driving in Chiapas – Safety Advice

If you are driving independently in this region, using a rental car or your own vehicle, its important that you heed some special advice.

It’s best to keep off all highways after dark, unless you know them well and have good local knowledge.

The highway from San Cristobal to Palenque (Highway 199) must NOT be traveled on after dark. It is generally regarded as safe during daylight hours. This road cuts through some extremely remote territory, including in the latter stages, sweltering jungle.

The above also applies to Highway 307 between Palenque and Bonampak / Yaxchilan archaeology sites. Most travelers join others and see these places as part of an organized tour, but there are advantages to driving yourself, and if you do, you must take these additional precautions for your safety.

Military Checkpoints: Expect to pass through at least one, but probably several of these on your road trips through Chiapas. Don’t be alarmed, the soldiers may or may not check your car’s trunk; they are polite, respectful and can even provide local advice and directions if you need them.

See Also: Military Checkpoints in Mexico

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (Closest)

Colonial Cities: Comitan, Tuxtla Gutierrez, San Cristobal de las Casas, Villahermosa, Oaxaca

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres

Other Archaeological Sites Nearby: Palenque, Tenam Puente, Bonampak, Chinkultic

Local Climate

The local climate is the same as that for Palenque, which is jungle weather: extremely hot and humid. Dress with light clothes that enable your skin to breathe. Bring sun screen, insect repellent and a hat.   Carry plenty of water and stay well hydrated at all times.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico