Must Visit Mayan Ruins in Mexico

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The Mayan civilisation was one of the most advanced in the world, with impressive architectural achievements that have left a lasting legacy. Mexico is home to some of the most spectacular Mayan ruins in the world, and there are plenty to explore. Here are four different Mayan sites that we think are a must-visit on your holiday to Mexico.

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is one of the most famous and well-preserved Mayan ruins in Mexico. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, it was once one of the largest Mayan cities, and its impressive architecture and engineering are still evident today. The site is best known for its iconic pyramid, El Castillo, which was built to honor the god Kukulkan. It is a must-see for any visitor to Mexico.

In addition to El Castillo, there are other notable structures at Chichen Itza, including the Great Ball Court, where Mayan athletes once played a game called pok-ta-pok, and the Temple of the Warriors, which features impressive columns and statues. The site also has a museum where you can learn more about the Mayan civilisation and the history of Chichen Itza.

Chichen Itza can be visited as a day trip from your hotel in Cancun.

Tulum

Located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is one of the most scenic Mayan ruins in Mexico. It was a major port and trading centre during the Mayan era and features stunning architecture set against a backdrop of turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.

The most iconic structure at Tulum is the Castillo, a temple that sits atop a cliff overlooking the sea. Other notable buildings include the Temple of the Frescoes, which features intricate murals, and the Temple of the Descending God, which is decorated with a carving of the Mayan god of fertility.

Tulum can be visited from your hotel in Playa del Carmen.

Palenque

Palenque is a set of ruins located in the state of Chiapas in southern Mexico. It was once a thriving city that was abandoned in the 8th century AD, and its ruins have been preserved in a lush jungle setting. The site is known for its impressive architecture, including the Temple of the Inscriptions, which features a series of hieroglyphics that offer insight into Mayan history and culture.

Other notable structures at Palenque include the Palace, which is decorated with intricate carvings, and the Temple of the Sun, which was once used for astronomical observations. The site also has a museum where you can learn more about the Mayan civilisation and the history of Palenque.

Palenque can be visited as a day trip from Cabo San Lucas

Uxmal

Uxmal is a set of ruins located in the state of Yucatan, and it is known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings. The site was a major city during the Mayan era and features several notable structures, including the Pyramid of the Magician, which is one of the tallest Mayan structures in Mexico.

Other notable buildings at Uxmal include the Governor's Palace, which is decorated with intricate carvings, and the Nunnery Quadrangle, which features four separate buildings arranged around a courtyard. The site also has a museum where you can learn more about the Mayan civilisation and the history of Uxmal.

Uxmal can be visited from your hotel in Riviera Maya as a 2-day trip.

Uxmal can be visited as a day trip from Cabo San Lucas

Mexico is home to some of the most spectacular Mayan ruins in the world, and these four sites are just a small sample of what's available. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just exploring new places, a visit to these Mayan ruins is sure to be a highlight of your holiday to Mexico. Just remember to bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and be prepared for some walking and climbing, as these sites are often spread out and involve some steep steps.

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