Visiting Mayan Ruins in Mexico

Central America was once home to the pre-Colombian Mayans, a people with a rich cultural heritage whose descendants are still found there today. If you want to learn more about the Mayan people, plan a visit to the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico to see its Mayan ruins.

The most well known destination for visiting Mayan ruins in Mexico is Chichen Itza, a day trip from Cancun. Chichen Itza is considered to be one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Its closeness to Cancun, however, also means that it’s frequently crowded. If you’re planning a visit there, stay as close to Chichen Itza as you can and plan to arrive as soon as the ruins open in the morning. By the time the day gets warmer and the tourist buses start to arrive, you’ll be ready for a break. Crowds aside, the step pyramid of Kukulkan is not to be missed.

Another site that’s as impressive as Chichen Itza, but much less crowded is Uxmal. Here, you can see several examples of restored Mayan architecture – the Nunnery, the House of the Governor and the Pyramid of the Magician aren’t to be missed.

Tikal is another great site, with a number of tall picturesque pyramids that reach up beyond the rain forest canopy that surrounds them. There’s much here to explore, but don’t expect much in the way of creature comforts. Creatures, yes, as wildlife abounds here. But the inns located inside the park have little to recommend them other than location – electricity is only available for about three hours in the evening. This is definitely a site for the adventurous, not for the casual tourist.

In the Chiapas region, you’ll find Palenque – home to the tomb of Lord Pakal – and the Temple of Inscriptions. Palenque has a lush, green forest setting and is near other sites you may want to explore, including Bonampak and Yaxchilan. Yaxchilan, in fact, is rarely visited, but well worth the trip. You have to take a boat from Palenque to get to Yaxchilan, so expect to feel like a real adventurer, without the gift shops or other modern amenities of most tourist stops.

Wherever you’re planning to visit the Mayan ruins, the following are some things you should keep in mind. The Mexican sun is brutal – choose sunscreen with a higher SPF than usual and apply it frequently and liberally. You’ll also need good sunglasses, a good hat and plenty of water to prevent dehydration. If you aren’t in shape, get in shape before you go – you’ll be doing a lot of walking, climbing and hiking. You should also be sure you’re wearing appropriate footwear, like comfortable hiking boats. Get your maps ahead of time, as good maps may not be available for purchase at your destination. And while some of the larger parks have concessions outside, that isn’t always the case. Pack some hearty, yet lightweight snacks to keep you going – you’ll be burning a lot of calories as you observe the landmarks of Mexico’s cultural history.

In addition, not all ruins are open to the public for exploring. Be sure to obey all park regulations and to call ahead to verify the hours and days open beforehand. If you have the opportunity to take a tour of the ruins before or after hours, take it. For example, if you’e staying in Tikal Park, talk with your guide about watching the sun rise from the top of Temple IV, a truly breathtaking experience.