27 Best Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula [2024]

Planning to see some Mexico Mayan Ruins on your trip?

Many of the best Mayan Ruins of Mexico are located in the Yucatan Peninsula.

In total, there are about 200 Mexico Mayan ruins open to the public, though most visitors don’t make it to see them all. So, which ones are the best Mayan ruins in the Yucatan?

For most, no trip to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is complete without visiting Chichen Itza Yucatan Mexico. This is the most popular, as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, though there are other UNESCO Mayan Ruins in Mexico with the distinction as well.

Some sites, like the Mayan Ruins in Coba near Tulum, are large, and many will rent a bike to explore it all.

There are also smaller, off the beaten path sites like Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins, near Merida, Mexico — known as the Mayan Culture Capital of Yucatan.

No matter where you’re staying, there are Mexican Mayan Ruins sites near most major tourism destinations in Yucatan. Ready to discover them all?

Let’s look at the 30 best Mayan ruins in Mexico and everything you need to know about visiting the ancient Yucatan pyramids.

Best Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula

1. Chichén Itzá Mayan Ruins

Chichen Itza Travel Tips

• Book your Chichen Itza Tours 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? It is 4 square miles (10 square kilometers).
• Can you climb Chichen Itza pyramids? No
• Chichen Itza Hours: Open daily, 8 am – 5 pm
• Chichen Itza Admission: $481 pesos ($24 USD)
• Chichen Itza Parking: $80 pesos ($4 USD) in their on-site lot

🗿 Visiting Yucatan Pyramids 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 175 or so Mexico magic towns. It’s definitely one of the best Mayan ruins in the Yucatan tours to book.

Staying overnight at a Valladolid hotel, or combining your Chichen Itza trip with a stop at nearby Cenote Ik Kil, are both great options.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

Chichen Itza tours vs Going on your own

The most popular way to see the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza is with a guided tour.

As such an important Mayan Yucatan 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 ($50 USD). If you’re planning to hire one, remember to bring enough pesos to pay them.

Best things 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 thoroughly see it all. If that seems like a large chunk of your Yucatan itinerary — know Chichen Itza is worth it!

Entering the site, you first see El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcan), the Chichen Itza pyramid you’ve likely seen in photos.

There’s also 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

2. Tulum Mayan Ruins

Tulum Ruins Tips

• Book your Tulum 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 Yucatan Mexico pyramids at Tulum Ruins? No
• Tulum Ruins Hours: Open daily, 9 am – 3 pm
• Tulum Ruins Admission: $75 pesos ($4 USD)
• Tulum Ruins Parking: $160 pesos ($8 USD) in their on-site lot

Visiting Tulum Ruins in Yucatan

Tulum Mexico is one of the must-see Yucatan beach towns.

It is located 1.5 hours south of Cancun and is 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.

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.

what you’ll see in Tulum Ruins

Compared to other sites, the Mayan Ruins of Tulum Mexico is small. 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 best of all 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 during your Tulum Mayan ruins tour.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

3. Cobá Mayan Ruins

Coba Ruins Tips

• Book your Coba Ruins Tours here
• Coba means waters stirred by the wind in Mayan, as Coba is surrounded by two lakes
• Can you climb Coba Ruins? Yes
• Coba Ruins Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
• Coba Ruins Admission: $75 pesos ($4USD)
• Coba Ruins Parking: $50 pesos ($2.50USD) in their on-site lot

Visiting Coba Ruins in Yucatan

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.

Personally, I think it’s one of the coolest ruin sites in Yucatan.

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 have several distinct areas or building groups. In each, you’ll see pyramids, other buildings and steles (large, carved stone tablets).

Largest and Tallest Pyramid in Yucatan

Wondering, What’s the biggest temple in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula? You’ve found it!

The largest pyramid at Coba Mayan Ruins, Nohoch Mul Pyramid (AKA Ixmoja Pyramid), is also the tallest pyramid in Yucatan. It stands 137 feet tall (42 m), and there are 120 steps to the top.

There’s a rope to hold on to, but this is a steep climb. However, the views of the entire jungle from the top are worth it. Definitely one of the best Mayan ruins Yucatan to visit!

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

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.

As Coba is located in Quintana Roo state, you’re not too far from all the best Tulum cenotes to swim in after your Coba visit.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

4. Ek Balam Mayan Ruins

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
• Ek Balam Admission: $413 pesos ($21 USD)
• Ek Balam Parking: Free in their on-site lot

Visiting Ek-Balam Ruins in Yucatan

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 if you’re visiting on a weekday in the off-season.

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 elaborately 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. With its unique look, this is one of the coolest ancient Mayan pyramids in Mexico.

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

5. Muyil Mayan Ruins

Muyil Ruins Tips

• Book your Muyil Ruins & Sian Ka’an tours here
• The Mayan name of Muyil is Chunyaxche, and Chunyaxche means wide ceiba trunk in Maya, referring to the ceiba tree.
• Can you climb the pyramids at Muyil? No
• Muyil Hours: Open daily, 8 am- 5 pm
• Muyil Admission: $45 pesos ($2.50 USD)
• Muyil Parking: Free in their on-site lot

Visiting Muyil Ruins in Yucatan

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

6. Xel-Há Mayan Ruins

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, 8 am- 5 pm
• Xel-Ha Admission: $65 pesos ($3.50 USD)
• Xel-Ha Parking: Free in their on-site lot

Visiting Xel-Ha Ruins in Yucatan

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.

Yucatan Cenotes

There are also two cenotes at Xel-Ha. If you’re wondering, What is a cenote?, here’s an explanation.

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

7. El Rey Mayan Ruins

• Book your Cancun tours here
• KinIch Ahau Bonil means king of the solar countenance in Maya, referring to the king believed to be buried there
• Can you climb the pyramids at El Rey? No, there aren’t any large structures
• El Rey Hours: Open daily, 8 am – 4:30 pm
• 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 in the Yucatan

8. Yamil Lu’um Mayan Ruins on Cancun Beach

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

Visiting Yamil Lu’um Ruins in Yucatan

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 the world-famous Playa Marlín Cancun Beach in the background and one of the coolest Cancun Maya ruins to visit.

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

9. San Miguelito Mayan Ruins

San Miguelito Ruins Tips

• Book your Cancun tours here
• The original Maya name of San Miguelito is unknown
• Can you climb the pyramids at San Miguelito? No
• San Miguelito Hours: Open daily, 9 am – 4:30 pm
• 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

Visiting San Miguelito Ruins in Yucatan

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 Mexico.

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; definitely one of the Cancun ruins that you should visit.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

10. El Meco Mayan Ruins

El Meco Ruins Tips

• Book your Cancun tours here
• The original Maya name of El Meco is unknown
• Can you climb the pyramids at El Meco? No
• El Meco Hours: Open daily, 8 am – 4 pm
• El Meco Admission: $55 pesos ($2.50 USD)
• El Meco Parking: Free in a small lot on-site, though spaces are limited

Visiting El Meco Ruins in Yucatan

El Meco (AKA La Naranja, “the orange”) 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 is believed to have been used for religious rituals and worship.

Want to speak some Mayan in Mexico? Kin is the Maya word for sun ☀️

Given its geographic location directly in front of Isla Mujeres, historians assume El Meco once served as a point of connection with mainland Cancun and the island.

El Meco is a great stop before jumping on the ferry to Isla Mujeres, Mexico, where you’ll also find the next Mayan ruins site on this list. You can catch the Cancun to Isla Mujeres ferry at the Punta Sam ferry terminal. 

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

11. Temple of Ixchel Mayan Ruins in Isla Mujeres

Temple of 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, 9 am- 5:30 pm
• Ruins of Ixchel Admission: $30 pesos ($1.50USD)
• Ruins of Ixchel Parking: Free in their on-site lot

Visiting Ixchel Ruins in Yucatan

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 Ixchel is one of many Mayan goddesses and gods, she is among the most prominent.

While not in Cancun itself, these are some of the best Mayan ruins near Cancun.

To get to the island, you’ll first take a taxi or Uber from your Cancun hotel to the Isla Mujeres ferry terminal. Then, 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 the 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, one of the beautiful Yucatan temples.

It sits on the highest elevation point in the entire Yucatan Peninsula, at the edge of the sea, so historians say it functioned as a lighthousflie, not a ceremonial center.

Nowadays, it’s one of the best things to do in Isla Mujeres. Besides the ruins themselves, there’s a rock and sculpture garden.

You’ll also see plenty of iguanas that live in the rocks of these ancient Mayan ruins of Mexico.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

12. Uxmal Mayan Ruins

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, 8 am- 5 pm
• Uxmal Admission: $428 pesos ($22 USD)
• Uxmal Parking: $80 pesos ($4 USD)

Visiting Uxmal Ruins in Yucatan

There are no Merida Mexico ruins, but one of the most popular Merida day trips, and the best Maya 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, and overall one of the best ancient ruins in Mexico.

Though lacking the name recognition of Chichen Itza, the Mayan Ruins Uxmal site is equally impressive — and some say even more so.

As it’s less crowded and less touristy, seeing only about one-tenth the yearly visitors as Mayan ruins Chichen Itza, many argue Uxmal feels more authentic.

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. Check its location on the Mayan ruins Yucatan map.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

However, if you’re doing a Yucatan road trip, Uxmal Mayan Ruins and the Puuc Route (up next on the list) are two of the must-see Yucatan sites.

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

Ruta Puuc: The 5 Puuc Mayan Ruins

Though Uxmal Ruins 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

13. Puuc Route: Kabah Mayan 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 in the Yucatan

14. Puuc Route: Sayil Mayan 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, 8 am – 5 pm
• Sayil Admission: $55 pesos ($2.50 USD)
• Sayil Parking: Free in their on-site lot

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

15. Puuc Route: Xlapak Mayan 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, 8 am – 5 pm
• Xlapak Admission: Free
• Xlapak Parking: Free in their on-site lot

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

16. Puuc Route: Labná Mayan Ruins

Labna is about 1,400 years old, though it’s very well-preserved — especially the Labna Arch (see 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, 8 am- 5 pm
• Labna Admission: $55 pesos ($2.50 USD)
• Labna Parking: Free in their on-site lot

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

For even more convenience, skip the rental and book a Puuc Route tour, like the Uxmal and Kabah Ruins Tour from Merida.

On Sundays only, the Ruta Puuc Bus has one trip, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 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 in the Yucatan

17. Dzibilchaltún Mayan Ruins

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)

Visiting Dzibilchaltun Ruins in Yucatan

Dzibilchaltún (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 Cenote Xlacah, to swim in — one of the best Merida cenotes.

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

18. Mayapan Mayan Ruins

Mayapan Ruins Tips

• Book your Mayapan ruins tours here
• Mayapan means flag or banner of the Mayan people in Maya
• Can you climb the pyramids in Mayapan? Yes
• Mayapan Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
• Mayapan Admission: $40 pesos ($2 USD)
• Mayapan Parking: $20 pesos ($1 USD)

Visiting Mayapan Ruins in Yucatan

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, one of the amazing Yucatan Peninsula pyramids that 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 fewer visitors than both.

The Mayapan Yucatan Ruins are located in the city of Tecoh, just 28 miles (45 km) 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

19. Xcaret Mayan Ruins (Polé Ruins)

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, 8 am – 5 pm
• Xcaret Ruins Admission: $40 pesos ($2 USD); this is paid separately from the Xcaret Park entrance
• Xcaret Ruins Parking: Free in their on-site lot

Visiting Xcaret Ruins in Yucatan

Located inside 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 that meets a 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 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 the 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

20. San Gervasio Mayan Ruins in Cozumel

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

Visiting San Gervasio Ruins

San Gervasio Ruins are the best ruins near Playa del Carmen, located just across the Caribbean Sea from the popular Mexico resort town. For those headed to Cozumel Island, this is the best place to learn about Mayan history.

To get to San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, take the Playa del Carmen to Cozumel ferry for a nice day trip on the beautiful island of Cozumel.

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 is 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

21. Kohunlich Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya

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

Visiting Kohunlich Ruins

Located about an hour from the popular travel destination of Bacalar Mexico, you’ll find Kohunlich Ruins (pronounced ko-hoon-leach).

It is a popular day trip from Bacalar and Mahahual (Costa Maya), 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 at Kohunlich to explore, like the Temple of the Masks. This pyramid was built in about 500 AD and has a central staircase adorned with five 8-foot-tall (2.5 m) masks.

There are also Residential Buildings where you can see the ancient Mayan beds they slept on.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

22. Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

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

Visiting Chacchoben Ruins in Yucatan

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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

23. Calakmul Mayan Ruins in Campeche

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.

Calakmul Ruins Tips

• Calakmul means city of the two adjacent pyramids in Maya
• Can you climb the pyramids at Calakmul? Yes
• Calakmul Hours: Open daily, 8 am – 5 pm
• Calakmul Admission: $55 pesos ($3 USD)
• Calakmul Parking: Free in their on-site lot

Visiting Calakmul Ruins in Yucatan

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 Ruins? 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 (45 m) and is 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

24. Becan Mayan Ruins

Becán Ruins Tips

• Becan means canyon formed by water or ravine formed by water in Maya
• Can you climb the pyramids at Becan? Yes
• Becan Hours: Open daily, 8 am – 5 pm
• Becan Admission: $65 pesos ($3.50 USD)
• Becan Parking: Free in their on-site lot

Visiting Becán Ruins in Yucatan

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 (27 m) 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

25. Edzna Mayan Ruins

Edzná Ruins Tips

• Edzna means House of the Itzás in Maya, in reference to the Itzá people (as in Chichén Itzá)
• Can you climb the pyramids at Edzna? Yes, except for the Temple of Five Stories pyramid
• Edzna Hours: Open daily, 8am-5pm
• Edzna Admission: $55 pesos ($3 USD)
• Edzna Parking: Free in their on-site lot

Visiting Edzná Ruins in Yucatan

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 Mayan pyramids Yucatan, 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

26. Chicanna Ruins

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, 8 am- 5 pm
• Chicanna Admission: $55 pesos ($3 USD)
• Chicanna Parking: Free in their on-site lot

Visiting Chicanna Ruins in Yucatan

Chicanná is the least-visited of all the Campeche Mayan ruins on this list, but it’s worth seeing 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 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!

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

27. Palenque Mayan Ruins in Chiapas

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

Visiting Palenque Ruins

No list of the best Maya Ruins in Mexico won’t include Palenque (pronounced pah-lang-kay).

Though it’s located just outside the Yucatan Peninsula, it is still a place worth mentioning, as Palenque Ruins are among the best ruins in Mexico — anywhere in the country.

Lakam Ha is the Maya name of Palenque, 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 Casa.

🗿 Notable Palenque pyramids:

• 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)

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 of Latin America, including North America and Central America.

It is located in Tikal National Park, 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

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 is one of the most important Mayan civilization sites discovered to date.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

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 pyramids and ruins at Teotihuacan tie with Chichén Itzá for the most visited ruins in Mexico; they both see about two million annual visitors.

Teotihuacan dates back to the mysterious Teotihuacanos pre-Hispanic 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. Check the post for the best Aztec ruins vacation packages in Teotihuacan.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

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 are one of the best things to do in Oaxaca.

Both Downtown Oaxaca City itself and the ruins are 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.

6 Tips for Visiting Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

1. Rent a Car

As you may have noticed on the Mayan Ruins Mexico Map at the top of 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 YOURS NOW!

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

3. What to pack for the 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 pack these items:

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• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Sun hat, sunglasses, comfy shoes, breathable cotton clothing.

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4. Come with cash

In Mexico, cash is still king. Also, many of the Mayan ruins in Mexico are in remote locations and 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.

best mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

5. Get a Mexico SIM card

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 most locations.

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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 travel 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 Yucatan Peninsula!
• Safety Wing: Ideal for general travel coverage and for digital nomads who will be traveling to Mexico for extended periods of time.

Final Thoughts: Best Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan 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, Are there Mayans in Mexico? The answer is yes. When visiting the ruins, keep in mind these are important and holy sites for the Mexican Mayans who still live near them, and always remain respectful.

Best Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan Map

Want to know exactly where the best Mayan ruins in Mexico are located?

Every place mentioned in this article has been pinned to this Mexico pyramids map above, so you can easily locate all the amazing Mayan ruins in Yucatan Peninsula and the rest of Mexico.