38 Best Stops Between Queretaro City and Playa del Carmen
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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Queretaro City to Playa del Carmen?
The direct drive from Queretaro City to Playa del Carmen is 1,121 mi (1,803 km), and should have a drive time of 20 hrs 10 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Queretaro City to Playa del Carmen, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Mexico City, Tulum, Merida, Puebla, Veracruz, Valladolid, Campeche, and Cuernavaca, as well as top places to visit like Chapultepec Castle and Frida Kahlo Museum, or the ever-popular Museo Nacional de Antropología.
Top cities between Queretaro City and Playa del Carmen
The top cities between Queretaro City and Playa del Carmen are Mexico City, Tulum, Merida, Puebla, Veracruz, Valladolid, Campeche, and Cuernavaca. Mexico City is the most popular city on the route. It's 2 hours from Queretaro City and 18 hours from Playa del Carmen.
Mexico City is a highly populated capital located at a high altitude in Mexico. It boasts several famous landmarks, such as the Templo Mayor, an ancient Aztec temple from the 13th century. There is also the Catedral Metropolitana de México with its baroque architecture built by Spanish conquerors and the Palacio Nacional which displays historic murals created by Diego Rivera.
Most popular city on this route
8 minutes off the main route, 11% of way to Playa del Carmen
Cuernavaca, located in Mexico's Morelos state, is a picturesque city nestled amidst the Tepozteco Mountains. The colonial city center boasts the historic Palace of Cortés, once home to Spanish conqueror Hernán Cortés and now a museum adorned with murals by renowned Mexican artist Diego Rivera. Nearby, visitors can explore Cuernavaca Cathedral within a 16th-century walled monastery complex featuring a mural depicting Mexico's first saint.
2% as popular as Mexico City
53 minutes off the main route, 15% of way to Playa del Carmen
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Puebla, situated in the eastern-central region of Mexico and positioned southeast of Mexico City, is a city renowned for its culinary heritage, colonial-style architecture and pottery. The city's buildings are adorned with locally produced Talavera tiles that boast vibrant colors and intricate designs. Puebla Cathedral, a historic structure from the Renaissance era, stands tall with its bell towers overlooking the central square or Zócalo.
11% as popular as Mexico City
4 minutes off the main route, 18% of way to Playa del Carmen
Heroica Veracruz, also known as Veracruz, is a historic Mexican port city located on the Gulf of Mexico coast. Founded in the 16th century by Spanish settlers, it boasts San Juan de Ulúa, a colonial fortress turned museum. The region is famous for its May thunder flowers that signal the start of the rainy season and its abundant coffee, vanilla, and honey production.
4% as popular as Mexico City
30 minutes off the main route, 29% of way to Playa del Carmen
Campeche, a charming Mexican port city located on the Gulf of Mexico, is renowned for its well-preserved baroque colonial buildings and military architecture within its walled historic district. The city's fortifications from the 17th century, built in response to pirate attacks, now house two hilltop fortresses that serve as museums.
2% as popular as Mexico City
1 minute off the main route, 74% of way to Playa del Carmen
I'll never travel to Playa del Carmen without this trip planner again
Mérida is a lively city located in the Mexican state of Yucatán, renowned for its rich heritage of Mayan and colonial culture. The focal point of the city is Plaza de la Independencia, where tourists can find Mérida Cathedral and Iglesia de la Tercera Orden, two churches built during the colonial era using relics from ancient Mayan temples.
12% as popular as Mexico City
1 minute off the main route, 85% of way to Playa del Carmen
Valladolid is a city situated in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, featuring magnificent colonial structures such as the Convent of San Bernardino of Siena and the baroque-style San Gervasio Cathedral. The town also boasts cultural landmarks like Casa de los Venados, housing traditional Mexican folk art and furnishings. Visitors can explore Cenote Zací or venture to underground cenotes Samulá and X'Kekén for a swim.
4% as popular as Mexico City
7 minutes off the main route, 92% of way to Playa del Carmen
Tulum is a Mexican town located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It boasts well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city and beautiful beaches. The main attraction is El Castillo, a large stone structure situated atop a rocky cliff overlooking the turquoise sea. Additionally, visitors can explore Parque Nacional Tulum, which features mangroves and natural limestone sinkholes called cenotes.
35% as popular as Mexico City
31 minutes off the main route, 95% of way to Playa del Carmen
Best stops along Queretaro City to Playa del Carmen drive
The top stops along the way from Queretaro City to Playa del Carmen (with short detours) are Tulum, Chichén Itzá, and Museo Nacional de Antropología. Other popular stops include Zona arqueológica de Coba, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and Uxmal Archaeological Zone.
The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City is a must-see for anyone interested in pre-Hispanic civilizations. The museum contains some of the most beautiful and impressive artifacts from across Mexico, dating back to the Olmecs, Totonacs, Huastecs, and Classic Veracruz periods. The displays are arranged chronologically and are filled with interesting information on each civilization. There is also a good section on contemporary indigenous cultures in Mexico.
Prepare to spend all day here, it is a huge establishment that has so many artifacts, sculptures and monuments. I love that it has indoor and outdoor parts that allow you to see lots of different things. I spent 2 hours here and i barely got through 1/3 of the exhibits! I think this is a must-see, one of the best museums I’ve ever been to.
Also, most of the exhibits have English translations as well!
Wilson Tsang — Google review
A great museum, large site and much to see. Clearly had some real thought put into the design and layout, including some outside spaces you can walk through which was lovely and shielded the view of the road which was nice.
The price is very reasonable at 85 pesos per person and they take card which is useful (national museum of art only took cash and charges c20% more if using US dollars)
Bag storage area if you’re carrying a rucksack which is well organised, and mandatory - you can keep small bags but not rucksacks around nor water bottles.
Really enjoyed this and spent a couple of hours there, didn’t use the restaurant but is one for a break.
Would recommend getting here early, we were there for 10am opening as by the time we came out around noon there were queues to get in and a wait. We also went in a week day as we could.
There were translations into English on not all, but many sections so we were able to read quite a bit to understand the context of the pieces
Jo Nash — Google review
This museum is absolutely gorgeous. It has a really good collection of prehispanic artifacts and shows the cultural richness of Mexico. Even if museums is not your thing, I’d still recommend going to this one. It has inside and outside exhibits. It would take you at least half a day to go through it. If you’re a nerdy type and like reading everything - then add a few hours more. A few tips: they have a nice gift shop, not very expensive with nice souvenirs. If you going to eat there, I’d opt for a cafeteria. Restaurant is expensive for Mexican measures and not good. The waiter that served us was pushy and borderline rude. The food is mediocre. So get a sandwich in the cafeteria, check out the museum and then eat something decent outside.
Maxim Ivchenko — Google review
Amazing! This museum has so many displays. We were here for three hours and did not get to see the entire museum. It is so large, beautiful and clean with much history.
There is no need to pre purchase your tickets or to even have to hire a tour guide to take you here. It sits on the Chapultepec park. We took an Uber there and it dropped us off right next to the entrance. We just went up a short flight of stairs after turning the corner. We purchased the tickets upon arrival. We had to check in our umbrella bags and water bottles. Then we proceeded to explore the museum.
Amy De Leon — Google review
The collection is rich and interesting but user experience and customer service of the museum are lacking.
-1 star for monolingual captions. In a place so tourist-centric surely all descriptions could be bilingual? At the moment only the introductory boards are. I’m writing this as a person for whom English is NOT a native language.
-1 star for digital equipment - when I visited nothing was working. It’s not a major flaw because there was still plenty to see, however for an institution like this it shows bad planning.
Overall: definitely worth visiting despite the inaccessible exhibition design.
Weronika Rafa — Google review
I'll reiterate the other thousands of reviews already posted - definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. Lots of history and interesting things to see. Place is huge and will probably need half a day or more to see it all. Was here 3 hours (they were closing so had to leave) and definitely didn't get through it all. Paid at the entrance at the ticketing window with card, 95 pesos per person, no wait on a Wednesday afternoon. Bags have to be checked in at a desk near the gift shop.
Ted Kim — Google review
Other-worldly trip inside a world-class museum. Stunning collection of artifacts and history. Beautiful space with prudent Covid restrictions (at the moment). Fun to walk around on a nice day. Like most amazing museums, it would take days or more to properly appreciate it all. Fans of the Mayans and Aztecs won’t be disappointed. Bucket list stuff.
Justin Rogers-Cooper — Google review
Super cool place that is very worth the visit!
The ticket is 90 Pesos ~ 6$ for an adult.
There are many interesting exhibitions, that can overwhelm even the toughest museum goers.
Kids will have fun there, but have in mind that it's a long long walk there.
Amazing exhibits, breathtaking history, worth visiting!
Bartosz Rola — Google review
If you visit Mexico City, make this museum a MUST SEE! Give yourself several hours for it. We were there for 3 hours and only saw the 1st floor. This is a good way to experience and learn about the history and culture of the city you are visiting. It's fascinating and beautiful. There was no line, and tickets were very inexpensive.
Jenny G — Google review
A stunning and amazing museum with great and interesting exhibits that are bound to take up your attention for several hours. Displays were well presented and laid out. The rich and comprehensive collection well presented the different civilizations in Central America. The largest museum in Mexico and one of the best in the world. A must see in Mexico
CK Cheong — Google review
What can I add? The place is a must if you're interested in Mexican history. The exhibits are designed well, which makes you feel welcome. The description of the items is mostly in Spanish so get ready to use a translator app.
Spent about four hours here but could have easily stay longer.
Pablo Zayas — Google review
I definitely recommend visiting this museum to everyone, especially if you want to know more about Mexican history and culture. The only upsetting thing was that the second floor was almost completely closed. However, as I understand, the exposition on the second floor tells more about modern history and culture. Also, keep in mind that the museum is quite popular. During weekends there are big queues to enter. Probably, the best time to visit is Wednesday morning. And it seems that it is only possible to buy tickets with cash. I did not see card terminals. So, get 95 pesos before going to the museum.
Alina Desyatnikova — Google review
Great museum with unique artifacts but there is a lot of room for improvement. The placement of items inside each exhibit seems random and does not follow any chronological order, which makes following the story of any specific civilization unnecessarily confusing. Virtually all the descriptions are written in Spanish so get ready to use translate apps all the time and make sure to have a battery pack for your phone.
They provide an app that has some audio description in English, however, the app is not maintained well and is extremely buggy. Moreover, there is no good way to figure out which items are included and the app or how to find them aside from a couple of pre-planned tours that the app offers.
I would love to see a number displayed on each item, which then can be typed in the app to get relevant text/audio of each specific item.
With a bit more English and some work on the app this place can be incredible!
Araiaf — Google review
I loved this museum. Very clean, spacious, and educational. You can spend the entire day there appreciating all the displays. Most of the information plaques are only in Spanish which was a disappointment for me since I couldn't learn about those particular pieces. I recommend adding English plaques as well or a digital recorded guide system. Regardless I'm sure I'll return if I'm back in the area.
Llorito Castanares Todd — Google review
It is an amazing museum with a great collection. It was a pleasure to discover the different cultures with much information in spanish as well in english. They also have some structures of the different cultures outside. There you can take amazing photos.
It was pity that the upper floor with the additional mayan stuff was closed.
We went there on a late Friday afternoon. It has a lot of people, but it wasn't too much. For buying the tickets we had to wait about 5 minutes.
For going in you have to pay an entrance fee of 90 pesos (about 5 $). You can pay it by card. It was worth it to go there. Calculate enough time for seeing the stuff, I can recommend at least 2.5 hours. If you are interested in history, then you should go to this museum.
zimmi zimmi — Google review
So much to learn!
They have amazing pieces and so much to see that it really deserves two visits.
Cannot miss the Teotihuacán exhibit, which will show you in color some of the details you would most likely miss when you visit the actual pyramids.
The room where the Aztec calendar is displayed is truly impressive.
Looking forward to coming back and learning more.
Kosher Without Borders App — Google review
I recently visited the Anthropology Museum in Mexico City, and I must say that it was an absolutely incredible experience. Having traveled to museums worldwide, particularly those focusing on anthropology, I can confidently say that this museum stands out in a league of its own. The museum's grandeur is immediately evident, and it's incredibly well-organized and spotlessly clean, making the visit all the more enjoyable.
One aspect that truly sets the Anthropology Museum apart is the way it skillfully narrates the history and stories of this fascinating region. They employ a unique approach by blending photography with lifelike depictions of indigenous people. This creative combination, alongside authentic tools and elements from the region, immerses visitors in a realistic portrayal of the area's rich history.
To add some background, the Anthropology Museum in Mexico City is renowned worldwide for its comprehensive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the indigenous cultures of Mexico. Established in 1964, the museum's purpose is to preserve and showcase the incredible cultural diversity of Mexico's native peoples. It's situated in Chapultepec Park, a beautiful and sprawling green space, and it's housed in an architecturally impressive building. To get there from downtown Mexico City, you can easily take a taxi or public transportation, with various bus and metro lines serving the area.
The museum's vast size means that a full exploration can take at least a day, but it's time well spent. The exhibits are not only informative but also beautifully presented, offering visitors a deep understanding of the history and culture of the region. In my opinion, the Anthropology Museum in Mexico City is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich and diverse heritage of this part of the world.
Texas Ratings — Google review
Excellent museum, not too big not too small, you should definitely be able to see it in one day. I went on Sunday it was very crowded as I think it is free for residents of Mexico. The metro system is very interesting for some reason they will empty the train and you have to figure out how to get to your final destination.
languageb — Google review
Incredible. I would suggest to put aside at least 5 hours to visit this museum.
It's one of the few which are truly worth taking the time to explore. Each room is magical. There are small gardens to the sides of some of the rooms, walk around and enjoy👌🏻
Ia Rivero — Google review
An incredible museum! We had a tour guide who took us thru three rooms in three hours. Then we had time to ourselves. There is so much to see, I recommend doing a morning tour and then having the afternoon to explore independently. One of the best collections I've seen and the organization of the rooms and displays is outstanding. A must see!
Chandrika Hickman — Google review
The most amazing museum I've been to in my life. Absolutely beautiful and very well organized with indoor and outdoor exhibits. Huge exhibits on display everywhere that just blow your mind. Definitely makes you want to learn more about the history of civilizations in Mexico.
James Z — Google review
Lovely museum that shows the anthropological history of various cultures and eras in Mesoamerica's history. The ticket is reasonably priced at 85$ pesos and the security goes by very quick. There's lots of exhibitions, but one thing you might notice is that all of the exhibitions share many similarities in the objects displayed. I myself found it boring at times walking through another clay figurine display.
Nevertheless the museum features most signs in both English and Spanish, as well as some spectacular displays that you can't miss.
Cedric — Google review
What an amazing place! This has been one of the most memorable places to visit in all of Mexico. The exhibition of 23 rooms is impressive, to say the least. Plan on spending half the day, at the very least, to see some of its gems. We had limited time and saw the exhibits in three rooms in four hours. With the exception of the Tenochtitlan room, we flew through the other rooms. There's that much to see. The Tenochtitlan room was the most impressive to me given the fact that you can see THE Aztec "calendar," which really isn't a calendar. Other pieces are just as impressive, especially if you know your history. If you only have a couple of hours, go. You can get through the Tenochtitlan room in 2 hours. It's well worth it. I will return to see more of these remarkable gems.
Alicia Romero — Google review
This is one of the prime attractions in Mexico City. The museum is huge and it’s not possible to cover it in a day or two. So good idea to first pick the sections that you would like to visit and focus on them.
The entrance is free for locals but they charge visitors. They use a casual look and see approach. If you kind of look Mexican you can go else they will wave you to the ticket booth.
The outside of the museum is a lively picnic area. They have water fountains that are used by kids to play and bathe in. Many food vendors and a small market for local items.
Parking is huge but they also run out of it and then they will not let you enter. One has to drive around to get some other paid parking.
Bali Adawal — Google review
Great experience! A must if in CDMX. Recommend to get a guide through TripAdvisor as there’s so much to learn and for your questions to be answered. Tours can vary but if you want to see the entire museum it’ll take 2+ hrs.
Des Flores — Google review
Beautiful building and amazing installations. I should have split it over 2 days. There is so much to see and read about Mexicos' extensive history. Advice: Bring your own coffee. The cafe line was all the way outside and barely moving. I couldn't wait that long.
Alex Wilson — Google review
It is a treasure trove of ancient civilizations. From the colossal Aztec Sun Stone to the elegant Mayan artifacts, it's a journey through Mexico's rich cultural heritage. Don't miss the iconic Aztec Calendar Stone and the impressive reconstructed temples. Overall, a must-visit
G N — Google review
Absolutely love this museum! My two year old son loved running around the courtyard and the outdoor exhibit in the Mayan area. This was my third visit in ten years or so and just as interesting as the first.
Patrick McCann — Google review
Very well made place. Just the architecture itself is amazing!
As I said when I was there, one of the most beautiful man made things I have seen. I am not exaggerating.
Like every museum of this category, you need more than one visit to fully appreciate all the exhibition halls. There is a lot to see and it could be a little overwhelming, even for a one day visit. I mainly gave my attention to the architecture of the place and walked through some of the expositions that I wanted to visit.
Do not hesitate to visit this Museum, it's 100% worth it.
Valentina Mastropasqua — Google review
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Av. P.º de la Reforma s/n, Polanco, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
The Chapultepec Castle overlooks Bosques de Chapultepec and is a regal site in Mexico City. The castle was home to Emperor Maximilian and Empress Carlota in the 19th century. Today, the castle houses the Museo Nacional de Historia.
A genuine castle on a hill with real history. Fun fact: when the USA won the war, they briefly occupied the castle. Unfortunately if that piques your curiosity, you won’t find any information in the Mexican museum.
You can access the main castle body on the back of the area, through the horse carriage stable/garage. Seeing the opulence makes your imagination spin for what things must have been like for the well connected in the 19th century. Worth a visit!
Justin Chow — Google review
Loved this castle!!! The views are incredible and all rooms made to enjoy it. It is beautifully maintained. Many rooms well preserved. The terraces are stunning and gardens lovely. The walk up is some effort but there is a handicap entrance for those need it. The parks surrounding below the castle is wide and expansive. Entry is dirt cheap at 85 pesos. Take cash they ask for exact change
Wanderers Compass Travel Blog — Google review
Loved my visit to the castle, and gardens. It’s fabulous! I visited the palace of Versailles in Paris and was let down by how little of the palace was available for tourists. This Castillo by contrast is completely opened up and offers not just a view into royal life in Mexico, but also a terrific collection of historical art, and a great summary overview of Mexican history following the Conquistadores. If you’re a Canadian like me you probably didn’t learn any of this is school and I suspect you’ll be very interested in digging i to this topic more deeply.
Tickets were reasonably priced IMO and great value. The walk up the hill is not too difficult though it is made worse by the masking requirement (seriously… they want you to mask up outside which seems insane to me, but what can you do). Just take a few breaks along the way if you need to. There are some great views of the park along your way up.
Remember to come at least 90 minutes before closing (last entry is 430) or you won’t even scratch the surface.
Not all of the objects provide descriptions in English. Many are Spanish only but it didn’t take away from the experience for me. The day we went we were only allowed to pay cash which was odd. Hopefully a one-off issue with the WIFI
I highly recommend this attraction. Attached to this review are some of my highlights
Simon Howe — Google review
This is a beautiful, well maintained monument to history. This building is very well persevered along with a lot of elements from its past days. You can see into various rooms and learn about the lifestyles of the then-elite (while acknowledging the role it played to Mexican history. The view from the top is great, but get ready to walk a bit! I went on a Friday and there was an impressive queue already there, but thankfully, it moved rather quickly.
Yagazie Emezi — Google review
This castle is a must see if you are visiting CDMX. It’s on a hill, so be prepared for an uphill hike. It it has gorgeous views on the city. The castle itself is very interesting with good insight into Mexican history. Give yourself plenty of time for a visit so you can see the castle, the expositions inside it and the garden.
Maxim Ivchenko — Google review
Beautiful castle and surrounds- make sure you bring cash for the ticket, they didn’t accept credit card when I visited. The main section of the castle does not have English translation but is still worth exploring, while the living quarters has excellent translations outlining the history over the past 300 years or so. Overall very well curated and maintained museum!
Ant Wirjo — Google review
Came here on a Thursday at 9, which is when it opens because we wanted to avoid the crowds, and it worked - except for one school trip but we only ran into them once at the beginning. Tickets are sold down at the hill (the castle is on top of the hill so it is a bit of a trek) but there are not really any signs as to where to purchase the tickets. We only knew because shortly after we started up the hill, a kind soul told us that we need to purchase the tickets in the little house first because if you get up there and you don't have a ticket, they'll send you right back down. For the tickets, you have to pay cash and they want you to pay in exact change. We didn't have exact change (I mean who does, nowadays?) so we had to pay with a bigger bill and we realized that she shorted us our change. And she knew exactly what she was doing because as soon as we went back to the window, she immediately gave us the correct amount. You also can't bring water and they make you spill it out once you get to the top.
Other than that, the castle is very beautiful and there are lots of details. You can look at each room behind ropes and each room has an information plaque telling you what the room was used for. Overall, it took us about an hour to walk through everthing, once we were up there.
It also looked like they were setting up for some kind of event here. A wedding here would be beautiful (though probably very expensive).
Definitely worth a visit. Just remember to go early, buy tickets, and count your change!
Melanie Tam — Google review
A beautiful castle in the heart of Mexico City. Be prepared to walk a lot! Buy your ticket at the building at the very bottom of the hill (before security). Tickets currently cost 90 pesos a person, which is a great deal.
The walk up the hill to the castle is quite the trek and not for the out of shape. Once you get to the top, there’s a number of spots where you can check out the views of the city and parks below.
Beautiful rooms to peek into, and some signs are also in English which was great.
There are some elevators in the castle so people who can’t do the stairs can see the second floor.
Worth a visit! Expect to spend around a hour here. Great spot for solo travelers!
Katie Boudreau — Google review
Great views, may be a guided tour works best to have a route inside the place as it is big and there is a lost of information and history that might be better digested if someone is explaining it in a certain order. I went on a regular Saturday and there were 2 people in line before me. Try to be early around 9 or 10 am it got crowded afterwards.
There castle is between 2 to 3 hours + depending on your own approach.
Remember there is a Zoo and the forest to walk through if you like.
Juan Andreu — Google review
Great tourist attraction in the main park. Lovely views of the city in all directions. Interesting exhibits too. Tourists are charged to enter on Sundays.
tone mine — Google review
Beautiful castle that’s definitely worth a visit if you have the opportunity. Students get tickets for free, even from other countries. If you do visit, highly recommend wearing comfy shoes as it’s quite a hike to get to the actual castle. Also, buy your tickets beforehand at the bottom or you’ll have to walk down and up again.
Ashley Sellen — Google review
Such a beautiful and historical place. The walk up to the castle is a long one, but definitely worth it. Reminder: you can’t enter with drinks, so make sure you drink them prior to getting to the castle or they’ll make you either drink it or throw it away.
Julia — Google review
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Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11580 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
The Frida Kahlo Museum is a renowned museum dedicated to the life and works of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The museum is located at her former home in Coyoacan district, Mexico City. The museum is filled with vibrant artwork by Frida Kahlo, including self portraits and colorful paintings of her relationships with famous artists such as Diego Rivera and Leon Trotsky. If you are visiting Mexico City, be sure to visit the Frida Kahlo Museum!
Its clean, organized, popular and overall it's good.
I didn't like that i had troubles at the front desk due to the were asking me if I was re-entering to the museum cause as i bought my tickets online, they said that they were already used and, well, all my info was correct, so they have an issue with their system.
I couldn't buy and extra ticket while on the line, so i recommend buy the tickets online.
Alejandro Sandoval — Google review
Be sure to get tickets in advance; they're pretty good with the schedules and keep the line moving. If you want to take pictures inside the museum, you'll need to buy a permit at the front desk to avoid an awkward moment with the staff during your tour :)
The exhibition is very well kept and you're able to experience a little bit of the life of this amazing woman
Elisa Taymes — Google review
I turned up 11.30 and their were tickets available by qr code for 3.45. It looked like a tourist nightmare so decided not to do as is small place. For those not on a tour (which is basically the problem of it being booked out) there is a Trotsky museum in the next street aswell. Fan or not it’s a beautiful house and garden and no fee for pictures with a garden for coffee. Also quick bus ride away Diego Rivera ‘museum’ - impressive place made by frank Lloyd right. The stuff in it is a bit of a mix of meso America and modern which not really worth seeing if you already been to the big museums but the house and garden are unusual. Plus you can have a beer and tamales.
Citywealth Magazine — Google review
This place is an outstanding experience. If you're in CDMX, bring this to the top of your list of destinations. I recommend getting your tickets at least a week in advance as they sell out quickly. It's nice because there are never too many people in the museum at any one time which makes it feel like you get to see everything you want to.
Caroline Giegerich — Google review
GET A TICKET BEFOREHAND! It can be sold out for days and it’s far away from the city center so don’t take a chance! It’s a cool place though, seeing actual garments from paintings was very cool. Not a lot of self portraits though. Be sure to check out other places in the area, there’s great restaurants in the area, the Leon Trotsky Museum is also a highlight.
Petter Nyman — Google review
Oh the blue house! Can't be missed! It really depicts the essence of Frida, colorful, artistic, yet tough & painful. It is monumental, regarding her huge personality, but also the period of time she lived! The garden is so cozy to grab a cup of coffee!
Katerina Papathanasi — Google review
A must see in Mexico City. Really enjoyed it. You need to book your ticket online and there will be a queue so do arrive like 15min before. Wasn’t expecting to be so far away in the city. Really nice museum, but was expecting to see more art by Frida. It’s 30 pesos if you want to take photos.
Anca Sticlaru — Google review
A must stop if you are in Mexico City. Humanizes Frida and allows for an intimate, private view of her entire life. This museum is located in the house she was born, raised and passed in. Has a lovely temporary exhibit with objects that have never been seen before.
Hilary Hughes — Google review
Beautiful house and the landscape was also very beautiful, the tour was great, get to experience the life of Frida from birth to her death. Tickets need to be purchased ahead of time or else if you wait til you get there there won't be any available.
Gerald Campos — Google review
Pretty interesting experience. It was kind of annoying that they don’t sell tickets there (you have to buy online in advance). However, it was still worth the visit. Pro tip: show up at the very last time slot so you can take your sweet time and avoid the crowds.
Rainier Nanquil — Google review
What an experience going through this museum. I do love how they set up each room to tell her life story. Her courtyard was gorgeous. Would definitely recommend checking this place out when coming to Mexico city
Nicole Asaraf — Google review
We loved this museum. It really did an amazing job having you understand Frida’s life and what made her so incredibly special as an artist and member of Mexican and global society.
Buy tickets in advance and head to the Coyuchan market after!
Stacey Furtado — Google review
Not a large museum but a good one. If you enjoy Frida Kahlo then is an absolute must. Enchanting and delightful. We visited through a tour so I am not familiar with how to purchase tickets ahead of time. Was a once in a lifetime experience seeing some of her works and home for the first time. Everything was displayed beautifully. Glad that everything was easy to access and closed off so items are not disturbed by guests. We were able to see the museum in about an hour.
N'Dozie Matingou — Google review
Such an amazing experience to get to see where Frida and Diego lived. You get to explore the garden, and all of the rooms within the house. It was cool to see the bed where she painted, her easel, and all of her dresses. The garden is beautiful and the gift shop has some nice gifts to take back home.
Shazad Beharry — Google review
Beautiful museum, Frida is a legend and to see her beautiful home is a must to see.
Highly recommend to visit this museum if you’re visiting CDMX.
Buy your tickets weeks ahead of time and also spend the extra $30 pesos to take pictures.
The staff speaks English and Spanish and once you’re in you can see the whole museum for about 2 hours.
Ash — Google review
Buy your ticket online!!! No exceptions. The staff is super kind, and friendly, Ale one of their staff was super helpful. You cannot buy tickets there and you must confirm that your tour includes a ticket or if you have to buy it separately. The entire house takes around 1 hour to get through, and is beautifully kept. Staff are knowledgeable of its history, so you can ask them. Also, you can only take pictures, no video, and you must purchase that pass when you buy your ticket.
Ana Mosqueda — Google review
It is unlike any museum I have ever been to. Like being invited into someone’s home, posthumously, to bask in all the art and their personal collection and artefacts. It’s like coming to know someone, their innermost thoughts (e.g., the corset that held her up, how she saw herself, how much she loved Diego), and it’s a beautiful, wonderful experience.
Buy tickets online and in advance. Be early to line up and expect there to always be a crowd. They’ll say the whole museum will take you 45 minutes. Unless you’re prepared to rush through, plan for 1.5-2 hours. Take in Freda’s indomitable spirit and be inspired.
Amanda Cooke — Google review
I didn't knew much about Frida Khalo and after visiting La Casa Azul I learned a lot. A must visit place if you are in CDMX. Make sure you buy your tickets online in advance.
Francisco D. — Google review
Plan on buying your tickets a week ahead of time if you plan on just visiting the museum as they do sell out. I tried to book tickets for a Friday on a Thursday morning and the only option was to buy a bundled tour for Xochimilco, Coyacan, and the Frida Kahlo Museum ($100). The museum itself if beautiful, peaceful, and worth the visit.
Freddy Hernandez — Google review
an impressive collection of beautiful art, the overall experience falls short of expectations. The venue is often overcrowded to the point where it becomes a challenge to navigate through the space. On my visit, the presence of large school groups, combined with the usual influx of tourists, made it nearly impossible to appreciate the art fully. The sheer number of visitors, easily in the upwards of 60, created an environment that was more chaotic than contemplative. While the artwork itself might be a draw, the overcrowded conditions significantly detract from the experience, making it difficult to recommend a visit.
Mauricio Gomez Franco — Google review
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4.5
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Londres 247, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is a renowned cultural center in Mexico City with stunning, eye-catching art murals painted by some of the most famous artists in history. The building is vast and contains several galleries, as well as a museum dedicated to architecture. It has been the scene of some of Mexico's most significant events in music, dance, theatre and literature, and it remains an iconic place for visitors to explore.
This was one of the most memorable experience in my visit to Mexico City.
We visited the Palacio de Bellas Artes during the weekend and saw a Ballet Folklorico de México show. It was a very emotional performance and the venue completely immersed you. The building’s architecture is stunning.
The shows are almost always sold out, so you should either purchase your tickets in advance or arrive at least two hours before the show.
Juanjo Arg?ello — Google review
Splendid place to visit, for around $4 dollars you can go into the museum I went on Monday, The building itself is gorgeous. Inside it's like a museum and a theater all in one. I can't speak to the acoustics of the theater because we didn't see a show there, but we did see two different exhibits, as well as the huge murals on the walls, remember museums are closed on Mondays. Fantastic venue. Amazing folkloric dance performance! Don't bother buying tickets online just walk in prior to performance and buy...much easier and cheaper. We would go again and again. Without doubt, there's a pretty place to visit in CDMX
Gabe Does — Google review
Located in the heart of Mexico City, this project stands as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of human minds. The historical site was transformed into a masterpiece by a team of skilled architects and artists, resulting in a building that is truly awe-inspiring. The attention to detail and innovative design elements are beyond compare, making it one of the most impressive and interesting projects in the city. It is a true reflection of the limitless potential of human imagination and serves as a source of inspiration for generations to come.
N C — Google review
Such a beautiful building! The architecture is truly phenomenal.
The exhibits inside did not move me much and you can get thru it rather quickly. 1.5 hours and you are good to go.
Tony del pino — Google review
This place was amazing. My wife and I had a wonderful time. Such a rich history and the 65 year old folklore dance was top notch! The staff was friendly the seating was perfect. Try to get there early and don't sit too close or you'll be looking up. 😉
Sonny Contreras — Google review
This church is so beautiful. Was built in the 1500s and is a must see! The detail, the architecture, the historical significance makes it a must. We had the pleasure of seeing a wedding. Just make sure you don't take pics of any events going on; I got yelled at 😂
Julian Romero II — Google review
Beautiful art deco interior. It's free to go in and look around and take photos. The museum was a great experience. They also have a box office inside to purchase tickets for up coming events/ shows.
Manny Macias — Google review
The murals are breath taking. If you want to experience this unique art form then here is the place. The building itself is a jaw dropping architecture grandor both in day and night time. The park around is always crowded, full of activities and is a fun place to walk around or simply sit and watch people. Oh, make sure you scan the QR code to read the description of the murals in English to appreciate each panels. Otherwise, all descriptions are in Spanish, no English.
Chau Do Beaverton — Google review
This is obviously a beautiful museum. You'd be crazy to think otherwise. It's even free to all guests in Sunday! There are three floors. The first two have mostly mural paintings with wings that have photography exhibits. The top floor also currently (March 2024) has a photography exhibit. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here. There is also a performance hall inside where you can watch orchestra and dancing. Check the calendar for those events and prices.
Michael Barton — Google review
Excellent museum inside out. So beautiful marbles all around and massive dome. They need to have the description in English for tourists. Apart from dat, great spot to visit , cheap entry and only accept pesos like all other govt institutions 😊
N M — Google review
A must visit if you are in Mexico City. The architecture is beautiful and if you can go to the sears cafe across the street, I would definitely recommend that. The view of the palacio from the sears cafe is unreal. Go here while the sun is setting for an even better experience
Darshan Shetty — Google review
This is an excellent example of Art Deco design. On the top level there is about 10 murals with at least two by Diego Rivera. There is also an exhibit by an important Mexico artist. Some paintings but mainly sculpture. Tourists will pay 90 pesos at the time of this writing, but Mexican citizens and residents will be free on Sundays.
The performance hall is also supposed to be gorgeous, but you will need to arrange to buy tickets to see a performance.
This venue can be done in one to two hours
Bjorn Bouwmeester — Google review
Really cool architecture. Tickets are reasonably priced. Murals by known Mexican artists, including Diego Rivera, are giant and cool to see. Unfortunately when we went a lot of exhibits were closed.
Joe Saturnino — Google review
Can't miss the iconic grandeur of this architectural world class beauty. We saw Amalia Hernandez' Ballet Folklorico. Pictures cannot do this performance justice. Incomparable. The costumes, beauty, choreography, music, and dance evoke cultural emotion like no other. I've seen many performances all over the world. I would come back to CDMX just to see this show again. Thank you Amalia.
Martin Martinez — Google review
We visited Mexico City between 3rd May to 6th May 2023 and visited so many places and saw this place but from a distance and had a aerial view of this place as visiting hour was over. Looks beautiful. Wonderful historical place. Sharing Photo/video taken from a nearby high-rise building. Aerial view of nearby places are visible in the video.
Sk Khare — Google review
You have to see the National Mexican Folkloric Show. It's a blast. The show is about 2 hrs long. But it worth every second of it. The stage is very deep, with the great sound and lights. The maximum quantity of artists on the stage is about 50 people at a time. It's really very impressive. The costumes are gorgeous.
It's guaranteed that you'll have long lasting memories about your trip to the CDMX.
Vyacheslav Latushko — Google review
This is an iconic place for Mexico City, but almost all visitors are only able to come to the museum of Palacio. Unfortunately, I must admit that the place is extremely overrated.
You may visit three floors there, two of them are the photos exhibition. The one on the first doesn’t even worth a glance, the one on the third floor is pretty good.
Other thing to see is murals on the wall, and they are pretty nice as well.
Alex Klénin — Google review
Wonderful art deco building with museum inside. The architecture is amazing. There is no entry fee and the building is more than overcrowded, the staff even make you going clockwise, without exceptions. Murals are quite ok.
Daniel Opat — Google review
It's a beautiful and majestic specimen of architecture. The neighbourhood is nice- lots of street food, and good ones. The best spot to enjoy this palace is the coffee shop which is right opposite to the main entrance of the palace. If you want to beat the crowd- be there by 11am in the morning for your late morning coffee :) Enjoy, and safe travels!
Farhan M. — Google review
The architecture of the place is astonishing. The inside prevails with an art-deco atmosphere clearly taking you back to the 1930s with its marble floors and walls. The murals are spectacular. It also has a wholesome library inside packed with interesting books and classics.
Carlos Argueta — Google review
A stunning piece of architecture in the heart of the city. This is a great meeting place for people and there is a lively feel in the grounds surrounding this place in both the day and the night. The iconic rooftop really stands out and it is well worth a visit to explore the many beautiful sculptures that surround the grounds.
Matthew Harwood — Google review
Good exhibits, and very interesting stories. Please visit this website before you enter. Internet is not great inside so the website doesn’t work.
https://museopalaciodebellasartes.inba.gob.mx/permanent-collection-of-murals/
These are all the Murals you will see inside. Happy reading and viewing. Please take a guided tour if you can find time.
Deepali Kulkarni — Google review
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4.5
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Av. Juarez S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco is a beautiful World Heritage Site in Mexico City that features an extensive lake and canal system dating back to the pre-Hispanic era. The gardens are popular with tourists for their relaxing atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, and feature over 80 km of canals.
It is a great nature and cultural experience. I am not sure why people would give negative reviews.
We booked a boat for 1 hour for two people and went solo for 600 pesos ($36 USD). We got to experience how some families live a simple life near a canal in Mexico. We experienced serenity of nature. While some groups were blasting music in a natural area, we chose a calm and quiet trip through nature. We got plenty of beautiful pictures of the landscape from the water.
I negotiated with the boatman to show us something different and a small doll house. So he offered to go further for an additional 30 minutes for 1000 pesos ($60 USD), making our trip of 1.5 hours. The boatman took us further up the canal into smaller ones, giving us plenty of picture moments. We loved it overall.
The boatman was very nice and friendly despite the language barrier as we were communicating using Google translate. The boatman was young, he didn't go to the college. I asked him how much he makes from the 600 pesos per hour boat run? He mentioned that he only receives 100 pesos for his work, while the rest goes to the administration that owns the boats and maintains it. So I gave him a tip for his hard and honest work, which made him happy.
We didn't wait for any food boats or anything, as we were more interested in experiencing the nature.
Umer Ansari — Google review
It’s good to go for 1 hour ride or 2 hour ride. They charge 600 pesos (Mexican currency) fixed flat price per boat for per hour. They don’t accept credit card, if u carry USA dollar, the boat guy will take that usd for a very low exchange rate, i would recommend you to do a money exchange and take local currency for paying. It’s good to go as a group to enjoy this ride.
Ravi Kumar — Google review
What an amazing experience! Try to go with more friends so you each pay less per person. Bring a portable speaker if you can. Lots of food and beverages to buy at dock.
Natalia Zamparini — Google review
Very different aspect in touring Mexico City. Yes, some call it a tourist trap attraction but it really isn't. It is a much calming respite from the busy life of Mexico City, be it the Historical Center or Coyoacán crowds.
One doesn't need more than one hour and the different boats peddling their souvenir wares or offering Mariachi entertainment are not a nuisance at all.
Please bear in mind that before the Conquista by Hernán Cortés, his troops and his Amerindian allies, the old capital of the Aztec Empire Tenochtilan was an island in the middle of a lake crisscrossed by many a water causeway. The Floating Gardens of Xochimilko can give you a very abstract idea what the place looked like prior to 1521.
RGSOUNDF — Google review
My boyfriend and I went for the first time and honestly, we were bored. This is definitely only a good experience with a group. Not much to see when riding the boat, very limited food/beverage options (everybody sells the same 4 things, basically). But like I said, if you’re in a group, it seems like a real good time! You can get a mariachi band on your boat or you can BYO food and speaker!
Annie Lee — Google review
Many have said that it's a tourist trap and in a way, that's true, but that's what you get when you go to any tourist attraction. They had a flyer with a clear price listed of 600 pesos per hour, and that's what we chose. I hear you can try to bargain. We had a very nice boat operator who did try to upsell us along the way to stop at what looked like a very makeshift altar of the Holy madonna. We did say no thank you, and he wasn't pushy. He didn't speak much English, so that's something to consider, and I think if you really don't speak Spanish, then they might leave you alone with all the upsale. I think this destination is worth it if you're doing other things nearby, like visiting Coyoacan.
Anka M — Google review
We went on a Tuesday late afternoon and the celebrations you see on the pics are for Saturdays and Sundays only. It was drizzling and there was nobody else on the tour boats but the person selling the boats assured us that the vendors are further into the river. We only saw one vendor where we got a pack of beer but there was no other vendors opened at all. If he had just been frank from the start, we would have still taken the ride with a completely different set of expectations
Aimee Cha — Google review
We had a blast! Great experience! Great bands, def recommend to pay for one to play on your boat. We danced and had so much fun!
Maribel Lara — Google review
Pier Fernando Celada / Embarcadero Fernando Celada is the name with more reviews. Even before you arrive at the floating gardens there will be people knocking on your Uber/taxi window trying to sell you on a tour of Xochimilco. None of them were on the side of the floating gardens, they must not be allowed to cross the street. Just walk to the boat area and ignore everyone else trying to sell to you. We went to the ticket window and were directed to a gentlemen with red hat and red shirt that briefly gave us information, asked how long of a tour we wanted, 1 hour (500 pesos), 2 hours (1000 pesos) etc. He called over one of the boat guys and that gentlemen led us down to the boat and was very nice. We didn’t have to pay anything until we got back. Along the way a boat pulled up besides us that was selling Corona for $40 pesos, delicious chicken and cheese quesadillas for $35 each, and waters for $30. Our “guide” kept pushing both boats along as they cooked the food right in front of us. My only regret was not ordering more food. The boat goes along somewhat slow, but it’s very quiet along the way with just nosies from animals and the occasional backyard stereo system. We did not have pesos after buying food, but we ended up just paying/tipping a little extra in USD for the ride and it was around 750 pesos with food for 3 people and the 1 hour tour.
Pros: Food along the way, very peaceful, lots of wildlife.
Cons: Very little English spoken here, they just need some sort of official information /ticket booth somewhere near to make things a little more comfortable, the water/some houses along the waterway were a little dirty.
DJ — Google review
100% a tourist trap. The sign says 2 hours for $1200 pesos. They charged us that much but then took us around for 1hour and sat near the dock for 20 minutes. Then eventually finally docked the boat after stalling. Then had the nerve to ask for a tip
Sabrina Ezzeddine — Google review
They are pretty, vendors are pushy and try to get your $$, all kinds of vendors in other boats get close to you to get a buck, water is dirty and smells. You must negotiate price before getting in them, forget the doll island that is a scam.
Bry Spider — Google review
It’s an experience. Fun hour to relax floating listening to music eating and drinking. You can get your own boat for $25 USD per hour. Food is cooked on another boat that comes up and hooks on. $5-10 for enchiladas or tacos.
Christopher Clark — Google review
It is a money making entertainment. You need to pay for drinks and food extra, nor it was said that will be included. Good entertainment for party - take friends snacks & drinks, but not as a cultural or romantic ride
Gabriele N — Google review
3.7
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4.0
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Laguna del Toro, San Juan, Xochimilco, 16038 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
I'll never travel to Playa del Carmen without this trip planner again
The Archaeological Zone Tepozteco is home to the ruins of a small Aztec temple dedicated to Tepoztecatl, the god of harvest, fertility and pulque. The 10m-high pyramid is located at the end of a steep paved path and offers panoramic views of the valley below. Although closed since March 2020 due to the pandemic, visitors can still enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the site.
When are in the area you should not miss visiting this place. Less for it’s archeological aspect, but more as a fabulous hike that results in an amazing view. You need some level of fitness as you cover almost 400 meters in height on a short distance. They tell you it takes 20 minutes, but unless you are a mountain marathon person, this is a lie. Take water and take your time. You will be joined by passionate Mexican. Enjoy the hike!
Kiki Kuery — Google review
Beautiful!! But **heads up**you can't get to the very top. Enjoy the exercise, greenery, birds and lovely nature but don't expect the vistas seen in older pics back when things were open. Steps turn into stones but it isn't terribly strenuous. Take it easy on the way down. We went at dusk on a weekday and it was nearly empty!
Jess Ramsey — Google review
It's very good place to hike. From the entrance, the distance is 1.2km to the top but it would feel like 100km...because the road is very tough and climed. [Tips] The ticket booth is on the top and only cash available. The current price is 95pesos. And you should be careful when you go down, It is very slippery. The total round trip of time is 2 and half hours.
STERDAM — Google review
Crazy long hike to the top. It's a jungle so bring hiking gear food and water. But it's worth it once you get to the top. And try some ice cream in the little town. This town has lots to do. And plan on arriving early and leaving late. This is not a good hike for kids that are young. Bring lots of water and snacks. Remember to only drink bottle water as well. Check the weather because rain can cause flooding on the mountain. Also bring a portable charger.
Charlie A. — Google review
This is a tough walk which I believe a mile from bottom to top and with a 400M incline. It is well sign posted and it is steps all the way with some areas to stop and sit.
It can get busy so the earlier the better.
There is a 85 pesos charge which you pay right at the very top so don’t forget the cash.
Tough but once at the top the view is worth it.
I’m a good walker and reasonably fit and this took me 2.5 hours with around 20-30 minutes at the top.
james young — Google review
A beautiful place for a hike.
It takes 50 minutes or more to reach the top, the pyramid area.
Check the schedule to make sure you get there while still open. If you are planning on going by the end of the day, make sure you have enough time for the hike, resting time along the way and time to enjoy the view.
Visit the pyramid (right side) and also take time to explore the area to the left.
There is a fee you have to pay at the top, make sure you bring cash with you.
Arturo Garcia - Yoga — Google review
BEWARE the pyramid is closed since March 2020 due the pandemic. Some people were really disappointed when they got almost up. The walk is nice and the nature around beautiful.
Oldrich Studynka — Google review
Do not take easy on the distance of 400m on map. It will take you about an hour to reach the site. There is a small pyramid (like some kind of ritual place) on top of mountant with beautiful view down to the town. Bring water with you.
Quang Trinh Pham — Google review
It's a beautiful place for spending time, walking or anything if you like nature and aventure,
The way it's approximate 1 hour to up and 1 hour to donw, the sendero is closed at 4pm, take your precautions
Jacqueline Pteromys — Google review
It is incredible!! 😍 The INAH closes the access to the mountain at 4pm for the safety of the people, it is a shaded area and gets dark really fast. The rocks can be slippery when wet, but it is beautiful! Unfortunately I arrived a little after 4pm and wasn't able to climb to the top and take picture of the pyramid, but was lucky enough to take a picture of it from the town. Another day I'll climb that mountain!
Angie Torres — Google review
Very beautiful hike! It was definitely a tough climb up. It took us about 50 minutes to get to the top.
Be very careful on the rocks coming down, especially after it has rained. I slipped and fell down hard on my back. But otherwise, it was beautiful and worth it!
Berkeley Bryant — Google review
Hard level hike with awesome views. If you take it slow anyone can do it. It took us 1.5 to 2hrs to get to the top. Bring water. There are some people selling water/gaterorade, popsicles and small snacks at different points of the hike. Lots of shade and rocks. Enjoy!
Veder Garcia — Google review
Wow. Superb. I've found a hike that puts "the incline" in Manitou springs to the test. This is a tough hike! Absolutely beautiful though and completely worth getting to the temple at the top. Keep going! Bring a good amount of water and a hat. You will need 90 pesos per person to get up on the temple site itself (cash). There are not a lot of trash stations along the way so pack it in and out. There is a small bottle recycle by the pyramid. Make sure you crush your bottles before you discard them. The temple itself is small and has an interesting history. There was a live guide there for us. There is also a small archaeology site opposite the temple where some homes and buildings used to be. You can access that with the same fee you get for access to the temple. The hike will take a couple of hours up and down, plus however much time you need to explore and rest. There are A LOT of stairs. You've been warned. I don't recommend trying this without proper footwear and good traction.
Tyler Dixon — Google review
If all you are interested in is the hike, then be sure to visit, just not on a Sunday, as it is free and therefore very crowded.
If you are here for the ruins, first, don't visit on a Monday or Tuesday, as it's closed. Second, don't visit at all - after the arduous hike, the ruins were a bit of a disappointment. There are other, better, ruins to visit. Tula, Tajin, Cantona and Teotihuacan are a few off the top of my head that are far more interesting to visit.
Michael Greer — Google review
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4.5
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Carretera Federal libre, Cuernavaca - Tepoztlan, 62520 Tepoztlán, Mor., Mexico
Narrow ravine lined by basalt columns, with waterfalls & a rope bridge, plus low-key restaurants.
You can spend the whole day here. Beautiful views, great playground for children, there is food and drink, you can also grill, plenty of space to relax.
Kiki Juhuski — Google review
Magical view, it was beautiful to see the natural rocks in the shape of prisms, enjoyed the falls. simple and quick trip would be great.
prriya js — Google review
ABOUT THE BASALT PRISMS
The Basaltic Prisms are geometric basalt columns that decorate the walls of the impressive Santa María Regla ravine, which are bathed by the four waterfalls that feed the San Antonio Regla dam.
In the magical town of Huasca de Ocampo , Hidalgo, just an hour and a half from Mexico City and 38 km northwest of the city of Pachuca, along federal highway No. 105. Huasca in its entirety has a temperate semi-cold climate, an annual temperature of 15 C.
You will be able to admire the natural wonders of the Basaltic Prisms, accompanied by their waterfalls. The ticket includes access to: Parking, green areas, grills, bathrooms, playgrounds, sports fields, pools (except Easter), showers, suspension bridge, viewpoints, walkways.
Jesus Bermea — Google review
Don’t miss this fantastic natural wonder to explore!
Chris Samples — Google review
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4.5
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Carretera Federal 105 Km. 34 Huasca de Ocampo, 43500 Regla, Hgo., Mexico
The Zocalo is a vibrant public square with a fountain and benches, surrounded by eateries, shops, and a historic church. It's the heart of Puebla and is easily found whether speaking Spanish or reading articles. The Zocalo is home to the cathedral and City Hall, on three sides of which are colonial-style houses and municipal buildings with arcades. Most private properties are restaurants.
I have been here during the day and the view was good. But i went during the night and the view and atmosphere was even better.
The zocalo was full with coffee shops and eatery places, so you would never run out of choice. Highly recommend to pay visit at night.
M Razali Paimin — Google review
A large central plaza that contains a small but a very nice park and is surrounded by colonial buildings on all sides. The park inside the plaza provides lots of shade and there are many benches to sit on. There is a nice fountain in the middle as well as a gazebo typical of Mexican central squares. Architecture surrounding the plaza feels very European. Some restaurants and shops around but also government offices and the usual church.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
So great to see families out together enjoying just sitting and talking and kids playing and people singing... Any night of the week.... Far from the picture painted of Mexico life by the folks north of the Mexico border...
Charlie Davenport — Google review
Love this town. Wish we had more time here.
Corinne Gerken — Google review
Beautiful during the day and at night. We went here a couple of times. Wonderful atmosphere and fun to see at various times during the day.
Vikki Johnson — Google review
It seems that every Latin American town has a central square that signifies the epicentre of that community... the genesis, the cultural hub, and spiritual home. And this is Puebla's version. It has the big cathedral beside it, many food stalls and vendors of various items surrounding it, the requisite colourful name of it's namesake in big letters in the centre of it, an impressive fountain, many benches to sit and relax, numerous trees and plants to offer shade... and it all seems to work as the local citizenry certainly flock here along with many tourists such as myself. There is a civic pride in this plaza and it shows. There are volunteers who help hapless tourists, families with kids playing in the nearby playground... it feels safe and homey. I liked it here.
Wong Family — Google review
Stunning! If you are an english speaker, take the green tour bus. They have an English translation tour. Puebla has so much history! You'll get an hour tour of the city, and see a panoramic view of the city overlooked by Don Goyo, the volcano in close proximity! Great restaurants and shops very close to the park.
Tamzin Gonzales — Google review
This place has a unique atmosphere and particularly during the ‘día de los muertos’. The city makes a huge effort to provide an excellent experience.
I loved the attention to detail and the art exhibition
Hendrik — Google review
I loved this Zocalo
Somehow I felt I was in Europe, it's buildings and the roads or just dazzling, but among all I loved the food. There are several restaurants and colorful handcrafts . The locals are beautiful and welcoming people who truly represent the best of the Mexican culture.
Alexander Lobo — Google review
Amazing place in the center of Puebla. It and its surroundings are happening especially on the weekends. Recommend the bus tours to orient yourself. 80 pesos and multiple languages. Poblan@s are friendly and helpful
Carlos Ramirez — Google review
Such a beautiful park in the center of the historic district. If you come in April the jacaranda trees are in bloom and smell wonderful as well as have purple flowers that fall like cherry blossoms.
Rebecca Orford — Google review
What a amazing place, everywhere is a perfect shoot for your camera, the people is so kind, you have to go inside the church and listen the big piano meanwhile the Catholic ceremony..visit the restaurant Fonda de santa clara all is so beautiful.
RUTA Y AVENTURA — Google review
Really picturesque town square with restaurants, churches, lots of shops selling local or special hand crafted items. There are benches and a pretty water fountain. Make sure to get churros.
LYVICK PEREZ — Google review
Now is a great time to visit. They have it decorated for Dia de Los Muertos and they have several exhibits that are great photo ops for social media. It's just a beautiful place to visit if you're here in Puebla. Lots of huge trees that provide ample shade and plenty of seating
You'll find a variety of restaurants all around. The kiddos really love playing in the water features.
Amy Lea — Google review
I hadn't been back to Puebla since I was a kid. I LOVED it!! We stayed downtown and got to enjoy the architecture and the culture.
Aurora Serrano — Google review
The lively heart of Puebla. A beautiful park surrounded by impressive churches and buildings. Streets lined with restaurants and shops. Some interesting and talented street performers, too.
Geordie McManus — Google review
Beautiful trees and cathedral here. Take photo with Puebla sign. You can hop on a tour bus from here too. We went Christmas time and the place was lit up everywhere.
Yuki Garc — Google review
Had an amazing time with all the cool things to see. The plaza lit up for the September festivities and the safe family atmosphere lots of walking tours available and food and drinks along the way. With atms available and good weather.
rory mcbride — Google review
4.7
(96691)
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4.5
(2478)
Av. Don Juan de Palafox y. Mendoza, Centro histórico de Puebla, 72000 Heroica Puebla de Zaragoza, Pue., Mexico
Africam Safari is a safari park and wildlife refuge in Puebla, Mexico that recreates African habitats as closely as possible. The attraction aims to recreate African habitats as closely as possible, allowing you to watch the animals from your own car or on a guided bus. The park is open 9AM - 5PM daily, and is closed on Sundays.
I'm at a loss for words to describe this experience.. This place is incredible. Jaw dropping surprises at every turn.
If you're a wildlife photographer this is a must see.
I've been to other self drive safari venues. Nothing in the States compares.
Perfectly Lonely — Google review
It was really great to visit here!
There were a lot of animals and we can see them very well in the car or near by 😊👍
This place is huge and well-made!
Laia Laia — Google review
Very well kept! So many different animals. The staff were helpful and friendly. So many lions they had! We'll probably do an experience next time we're there!
Abdalla Abdel-Rahman — Google review
It is what it is. Don’t expect (say) UK levels of animal welfare but I understand that many animals (ie the majority of the carnivores) were rescued from private owners so they’re likely much better off here. My four year old enjoyed herself but then the experience of the human visitors seems to come first (eg the wolf/tiger/lion enclosures are pretty small so rangers can feed them bits of meat for our enjoyment - of course such animals would roam/gorge in the wild). I was confused as to why the rabbits had artificial grass in the petting zoo - not their natural environment - and the park is very reliant on the herbivores (giraffes, camels, oxen, zebras) not biting the fingers of/off kids feeding them. Fortunately, these animals have come up with methods of being fed without injuring us (like opening their mouths for us to pour feed in) but it feels like a disaster looking for someone to happen to. On the other hand the herbivores did have acres of space. The human food is pretty limited/very Mexican (who knew?) so you may want to bring your own. We were made to wait 20-30 mins for the safari ride because they were hoping to get in more visitors before they gave up as the park was pretty empty (it was Dec 31) and their animal pellets markup is pretty larcenous. Signage is also poor. There are no elephants if the elephant in their logo raises your expectation. You always exit through the gift shop of course, even with airport style ropes to ensure you pass by everything. If I go again I’ll wear greenscreen coloured clothes to fight against the incessant photo-taking and hawking (we paid for a package that meant they binned one photo rather than just giving it to us).
Ed Wiles — Google review
It's a great Safari and a great experience lots of animals to see and a good bird show I recommend visiting Africam Safari
kevin d — Google review
An amazing experience, I recommend everyone who visits Puebla to come to Africam Safari. A really incredible zoo experience, most of the zoo is one huge enclosure & you drive around to see all the animals, such a fresh way of visiting such beautiful animals. All the animals are very lively & you can see are really happy and well treated. Rest rooms and convenient stores are located all over the zoo & 3 main restaurant to visit. If you don’t have a car, they do have tour buses available as well.
Ashton Harrison — Google review
One of the best zoo's I have ever seen. You can drive your own car or take a tour bus.
Esteban Bautista — Google review
An amazing safari park. We had a fantastic time and thoroughly recommend visiting!
Steven Hebington — Google review
Great place to come with a family for fun. Children will be thrilled seeing all the animals up close. There are a lot to see, plan for several hours. Very fair prices in the gift shops, unlike the price gouging you typically see in such venues. The restaurant also provided good food and decent service. Overall a great experience.
John — Google review
I enjoyed this zoo more than the San Diego Zoo! I wish there was more information available during the visit, like a digital map for the walking part everything was in Spanish so me and the kids didn’t understand a lot but it was still great, just a minor inconvenience. Maybe more information on their website so you know what to expect. I wore flip flops which is not a good choice but I thought it was all drive through. Overall, I was still very impressed and it’s a great value for you money.
Ish R — Google review
Such a variety of animals. I had a really great time. I suggest bringing your own car so you can drive at your own speed.
Kaila — Google review
Best zoo-like experience ever! Clean places, understading staff and accesible prices for all family to enjoy.
Arturo Reyna — Google review
Africam safari was such a wonderful experience!
It was $850 pesos ($55 Canadian) for their tour plus entry tickets which was 1.5 hours where they drive you through all the animals and talk about the animals. It was an open roof concept and well worth the money! Then you would switch to a jeep for the lions and some other animals. Absolutely worth doing instead of the $350 pesos tickets to just drive through yourself.
Half the park is drive through (either with your car or their tour), other half was a walk through the park on your own.
Recommend going Monday Tuesday as that is the slowest days for them, less people which means better photos and better view of the animals.
Pets: They do NOT allow pets but they do have an area for individual spaces for dogs so you can leave them there with food and water for the day. However, I do not know how many spaces there are so I do not know if they would run out of the individual spaces for dogs if it is a busy day.
Highlights:
- They had an area where you could feed the birds seeds on a stick, and they would all fly on your hand and stick to eat.
- The butterfly 🦋 area, the butterflies would also fly on you frequently which was absolutely amazing.
- They had a jeep built into the lions enclosure with a glass wall in between (front of jeep was in their enclosure and the wheel/seats/back of jeep was on the other side) you could take photos in the jeep while the lions were laying on the front of the jeep. It was really cool to see a lions face right in front of me through the glass wall.
- The elephants were so amazing. They had 18 of them when we went.
- You can pay for an experience of feeding the giraffes from the open concept car tour they had (we didn't do this, but saw it happen and it looked really fun, they would eat out of your hand, makes some great photo opportunities and close up experience with the giraffes).
It was clean, well taken care of, and great people.
Thereysa — Google review
4.6
(37918)
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4.5
(3565)
Oasis, Carretera al Oasis 17302-22, Blvd. Capitán Carlos Camacho Espíritu Km 16.5, Oasis, 72960 Heroica Puebla de Zaragoza, Pue., Mexico
Many Olmec artifacts found locally are on display in this brutalist museum designed by Paul Balev.
One of the most exquisite museums I've ever had the pleasure of visiting.
Make the effort.
The collection is displayed in such a way that you can truly connect to the artifacts (no touching!) and I rarely needed my English audio guide.
The weaving of indoor and out, placing the carvings into the courtyards, the length of the main corridor... even the brutalist architecture (usually not a fan, sorry) play together to keep you engaged.
Jill Sessa — Google review
Es maravilloso. Me tocó recorrido con guía, iba con mi hijo y ambos estábamos encantados. La flora que tiene el museo es maravillosa.
Y también han sido amables y nos han permitido realizar nuestro proyecto de baile mamá y bebé dentro de sus áreas verdes.
El mejor museo de la ciudad.
(Translated by Google)
It is wonderful. I had a guided tour, I went with my son and we were both delighted. The flora that the museum has is wonderful.
And they have also been kind and have allowed us to carry out our mommy and baby dance project within their green areas.
The best museum in the city.
Vianey Gomar — Google review
World class museum, second best in the country. A must if you visit Xalapa.
Chantal Clabrough — Google review
Huge collection of colossal heads and other pieces from the south region heading back 1500 BCE.
I’m giving four stars because the cafe was closed. You definitely to go through the whole museum.
Quick thing if you decide to go to the restroom before you get to a stall grab toilet paper which is located outside the stalls.
Sarai Hoffman — Google review
This place is incredible. We've been to a few Anthropological museums around Mexico as there is such a rich history in the region, but this one is stunning. The quality of the pieces, the scale of them in the huge open hallways really brings the history and their majesty to the forefront. The pieces have good labels and descriptions that give context to their stories.
Mike Smith — Google review
Extraordinario, una joya de nivel mundial. La arquitectura por sí misma es genial, el museo baja a forma de escalinata y se visita por vestíbulos, aledaño a un bosque que dice mucho del clima brumoso y elegante de la zona. Las piezas son realmente una maravilla.
(Translated by Google)
Extraordinary, a world class jewel. The architecture itself is great, the museum goes down a staircase and is visited through halls, bordering a forest that says a lot about the misty and elegant climate of the area. The pieces are really wonderful.
Abelito E. J. — Google review
Very interesting museum. If you don't speak Spanish, then you should rent an audio guide. All info is in Spanish only.
Marcel Sol — Google review
The museum is great. It costs 70 MXN and the permanent expo is amazing. In particular I liked the statue "el señor de las limas" if you have the chance see the whole video explaining the símbolos on it!
Osz Bucio — Google review
It was great filled with many interesting pieces of old meso América figures
Erick cabanas — Google review
Es un increíble lugar de aprendizaje, tienen guías y audio guías, por supuesto recomiendo a los guías. Está muy bien cuidado y catalogado, tienen baños muy limpios, además de un bello jardín y la verdad creo que para recorrerlo completamente bien se necesita de varias visitas. Entre semana tiene un costo la entrada y domingo es gratis. Ampliamente recomendado 👌🏼
(Translated by Google)
It is an incredible place of learning, they have guides and audio guides, of course I recommend the guides. It is very well cared for and cataloged, they have very clean bathrooms, as well as a beautiful garden and I really believe that to go through it completely well you need several visits. During the week there is a cost to enter and Sunday is free. Widely recommended 👌🏼
Liz Harmon — Google review
The museum is beautiful, large and had great services all around. There's so much information and the exhibits are so interesting, it can be overwhelming (in a good way), it definitely warrants several visits to see it all properly. The only issue I have is: the cafeteria has no visible menu or price list and the clerk was not very helpful.
David Padilla — Google review
This anthropology museum is AMAZING! I make it a point to visit it every time I travel to Xalapa. The artifacts are super interesting and the building is beautiful. It’s a 10/10.
Hector Aguero — Google review
One of the most fascinating museums we've seen. Really beautiful pieces in a gorgeous space. A really fantastic way to learn about the people who inhabited present day Veracruz. A must visit when in Xalapa!
Anne Cayer — Google review
Amazing museum!! I loved it. Amazing collection of artifacts.
David Stuart — Google review
I was very warmly received and purchased general admission and the English audio self-tour. I thoroughly enjoyed the special exhibition as well as all of the amazing Olmec artifacts this museum houses. The covered terrace areas feel like little time-capsule oases. The grounds may be my new "happy place" here in Xalapa; I spent almost as much time outside enjoying all the amazing trees and flowers as I spent inside in awe and reverence of the history and culture collected here. That being said, I did notice that the museum, while they do have some areas with wheelchair ramps, is still VERY inaccessible for those with disabilities, particularly mobility issues. E.g. the restrooms are located upstairs and then there are a couple steps up to the entrance of the restroom, and the restrooms themselves were very cramped, smelly, and didn't seem well cared for. Also, as a white American visiting here, I recognize I may have had a different experience in my treatment by the staff than perhaps locals and other Mexicans may receive, which saddens me. I sincerely hope (and will try to do my part so) that more money will be allocated to maintaining this gorgeous museum that is so important to México's cultural heritage, so that it can be even more accessible and comfortable for ALL. Will definitely be coming back!
Lydia Jackson — Google review
Awesome museum, one of the best in the world. Superb collection of artefacts set amongst beautiful modern architecture that really enhances their beauty. An inspirational day out.
Tom Mutton — Google review
Very interesting and well put together museum. Spent a couple of hours enjoying the exhibits the building and outside amongst the plants. It's a shame that they do not have adequate air-conditioning system to preserve all of the antiquities and waste paper just to give you a receipt of payment for entry which is the size of a certificate. They could also put in a coffee and cake area as they have a lot of room at the end of the exhibition and at the entrance also. They have not thought about using the space wisely. They charge 60 pesos extra for the audio guide which has no signal when walking around the museum. Apparently it's supposed to be free on Sundays. This is not the case.
Shirina Ismail — Google review
4.7
(5829)
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5.0
(575)
Av. Xalapa s/n, Unidad Magisterial, 91017 Xalapa-Enríquez, Ver., Mexico
Acuario de Veracruz is a vast and impressive aquarium situated in Veracruz, which boasts breathtaking habitats for various marine creatures such as sharks, penguins, and jellyfish. The aquarium features an extraordinary tank that houses 2,000 species of indigenous marine life from Latin America. Unfortunately, the dolphin show is currently unavailable due to the pandemic. Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the gift shop; however, it's quite expensive compared to street vendors selling similar merchandise at more affordable prices.
Excellent experience with my children. We enjoyed it very much
Edgar Adalberto Avenda?o — Google review
Terrible place, the animals look sad and many of them look sick. We were present when a fish jumped out of the tank and died. There are no labels explaining what kind of fish are in the tanks, so not really didactic for children. They are remodeling and making a lot of noise so the fish are stressed. This place should be closed.
Gabriela Teran Malo — Google review
Pretty place. I think it needs maintenance tho. It would definitely be better if they let you go back and observe at your own pace
Lilly Giadans — Google review
What we managed to see was rather cool, but It was too crowded, it's definitely not made to handle the crowd that came for the Easter break. Also, we were unlucky and it was under reparations, so no dolphins, octopuses or medusas for us 😢.
Rafael Falcon — Google review
A nice experience, I'm glad there were no dancing dolphins when we visited. The fish, sharks and jellyfish section is great and very impressive. I felt quite sad for the penguins, otter, turtles and manatees as there areas were quite small. We spent a couple of hours walking round.
Chilli_Smoke — Google review
It's a nice trip overall, not that long but with a lot of species to see. Ranging from birds, turtles, reef fish, open water fish, sharks, rays, corals, penguins, manatees, jellyfish, etc. If you have questions, staff is happy to answer them they are very knowledgeable. When I visited, the dolphin section was under maintenance, just bear that in mind. Also, the facilities are wheelchair friendly!
Frederick Sky — Google review
Nice aquarium for the most part. Loved the penguin stand and display. No dolphin show available now most likely due to pandemic. The souvenir shop is very expensive, so won’t bother buying anything there. You can find same merchandise on the street for half the price. Overall, a good place to visit while visiting Veracruz .
Ariel C — Google review
Its a bit expensive but its worth it if you want to see big sharks! I liked the section with the free birds (tucan and parrots) but in general its a bit small. Recomended for families with children! There are various places where you can take a professional photoshot and if you want you can buy your photos at the exit.
Champis Michael — Google review
It's an interesting experience because you meet some strange, curious and beautiful animals
Some of them are enormous!
I recommend visiting it, It's an opportunity to know a part of Mexico's biodiversity.
Mariana González — Google review
It’s unfortunately really not worth the money nor the time. Extremely disappointed about the experience and concerned about the care given to the fishes.
The whole tour took us in total only 30 minutes — to show you how small it was with poor/inexistant descriptions!
The aquarium was packed with people and there is no regulation of the flow of people at the entrance. As a result, it resonated a lot in the building and throughout the visit, making it stressful and extremely noisy.
All the plaques and explanations look really old and are poor. Very little ventilation and it felt very hot and suffocating.
On top of that, tanks look old, small and not well-maintained as it should to offer fishes a reasonable place to live and swim outside their natural elements.
Not recommended at all!
PS: apparently the place lost funding from before. It definitely lacks investments to make it a great experience for the fishes and the people.
Jonathan Verschaeve — Google review
It was smaller than expected. Very clean. Reasonably priced. Good for something to do for a little while. No shows. if your looking for a large showing of sea stuff don't go. U will be disappointed
Susan Innarelli — Google review
Beautiful Aquarium! We had a great time at the place, it was very budget friendly, costumer service was good, and had a great variety of sea animals! Also had a few land animals as well, at the entrance! Very family friendly environment. The place does not come with it's own parking area, which will require you to park in the streets near it. Depending on how busy it may be, will determine how far you may have to park, and walk. But it's worth it! I definitely reccomend the place! They do take credit/debit cards here as well! I will say, do use the bathroom before entering because it's a bit of a walk to go, once you're inside.
Parque Museo La Venta is an intriguing outdoor museum situated in western Tabasco. It was established in 1958 to protect the ancient Olmec settlement of La Venta from petroleum exploration, and houses several significant artifacts including giant stone heads and carvings salvaged from the oil fields. The park exudes a jungle-like atmosphere within the city, making it a fascinating destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Enjoyable and really cultural short walking
Abraham C. — Google review
Nice park with small zoo and Olmec archeological monuments. Like a jungle in the city.
Zona Arqueológica Palenque is a renowned archaeological site and tourist attraction that features the ruins of an ancient Maya city-state. It is situated at the precise point where the first hills emerge from the Gulf coast plain, with a dense jungle serving as a striking backdrop to its exquisite Maya architecture. The site spans 15 sq km, with hundreds of ruined buildings, but only a compact central area has been excavated.
A wonderful experience! Please request a tour from Mr. Victor Hernandez, he has been working there for at least 40 years. His knowledge of the pyramids, and Mayan culture is outstanding. He describes things as if he was there when it happened. I can tell he truly cares about this park and it's history. He is a living Mexican National Treasure. Please take you time to request a tour with Mr. Hernandez.
Travis Lopez — Google review
Extremely interesting please. Great city with interesting architecture. So nice atmosphere in jungle. Really nice place to just walk around.
But suddenly all the main buildings are closed. Governance of the place is extremely poor. They hate tourists in here.
Vassiliy Kalabin — Google review
We got the colectivo to the ticket office (25 pesos) then found a guide to take us on the private jungle & ruins tour which I highly recommend. We paid 2800 pesos for this which seems pricey however it was worth it We paid another 15 pesos to then get us to the site with the guide. Ruins are amazing & we was given a lot of information & the guides offered to take our pictures & answered any questions we had.
C Smith — Google review
Pretty stunning ruins. Guides are expensive at the gate but get cheaper the more you go into the park - don’t pay more than $500 for one. If you’re on a budget a guide isn’t necessary there are lots of great info boards that describe the history. Takes about 90 mins to wander around. It’s HOT though bring some water for sure
Alex Ainsworth — Google review
Extremely beautiful and powerful experience.
We took the 2 hour tour with Rubi the local guide in English and he was FANTASTIC!
We loved every second with him and the stories and knowledge he shared with us.
Highly recommended!
(And thanks again Rubi)
Eylon Avigur — Google review
Take a colectivo from in front of the bus station in Palenque (17.508344, -91.989870) for 30 pesos. It's a 15 min ride to the building where you have to buy two tickets - one for the national park (105 pesos) and another to get into the ruins for 90 pesos.
From there, it's a 1.5 km walk to the park entrance. You will have your ticket checked along the way; make sure the stamp on the back isn't smudged or they may accuse you of trying to reuse a ticket from another day.
Expect to be offered guide services; I was quoted 300 pesos per hour as the local rate.
Expect to spend at least 2 hours exploring the ruins. Several of the ruins are climbable, and offer a great view. Be sure to notice the carvings preserved in the temples when you get to the top.
When it's time to leave, walk past the modern building (currently blocked off with a line of portable toilets outside it) and down the path. This will take you past a picturesque waterfall. Be careful on the wooden bridge, as it is very slippery (ask me how I know!). The path ends at the booth where the guy checked your ticket. It is here that you can flag a colectivo down for a 30 peso ride back into town.
From getting on the bus at the start of the day to getting off the bus at the end, my day was almost 5 hours, but I did stop to talk to people.
Note - go early in the day to beat the crowds. I wanted to also beat some of the heat, but I think that that was impossible!
Michael Greer — Google review
What a great spot to take in the archaeology. If you’re driving then you’ll purchase an entrance ticket at the first building, be sure to get a National Park bracelet at the same time so you can take the nature trail on the way up. There are big trees and waterfalls to appreciate.
Karl Gercens — Google review
One of the best Maya sights! You need one and a half hour minimum to walk around and enjoy and you should hire an official guide for about 1000.-, they know a lot of interesting stories and also the best way and places to go. Don't miss this.
Manuel Girisch — Google review
Decently nice Mayan ruins, very quick to get through, many guides will charge crazy prices for a jungle tour, make sure you understand what they're offering before going, I think anything less than 200 pesos and they just walk you through the jungle without showing you any of the hidden gems and temples in the jungle. Also admission is 105 pesos plus 90. If you're not already in Palenque, I wouldn't recommend coming here to see it, but it's a decent way to spend an afternoon if you don't mind spending the money and you're already here.
Sean Patterson — Google review
The ruins are simply amazing!
We went early in the morning around 8 by collectivo from town center (20 pesos per person).
There are two entrances for the ruins, the first one which is next to the museum/ticket centre and the main one 1,5km further up the road, where all the organised buses stops and the tours starts.
Since we went on our own, the collectivo dropped us off on the ticket centre/museum where you have to buy two types of tickets - one for entry into the national park and then another queue for the entry in the actual archeological site of Palenque. 180 pesos altogether.(as of March 2022)
After we got the tickets we returned on the main road and started walking up the road toward the first entrance. We decided to enter the site from there, instead of walking 1,5km on the road for the main entrance.
That was the right choice and we highly recommend that approach, since that part of the site is literally in the jungle, the ruins are surrounded by it, there is a cascade waterfall Sombrillas and small suspension bridge. There were no people at all, all we could hear was the jungle and the river running. It was so Indiana Jones we even got a bit scared, by the wildness and absence of people at all. There were some signs showing direction, but the overall feeling was excitement, as if you are in the jungle on your own.
There were guys providing guide services at the entrance, but we chose not to have one. The signs are in English as well, so there is some information, but if you feel you need a guide you can hire from the entrance.
After probably 30min being alone we started seeing people coming ahead, who have entered from the main entrance.
We explored all the site, there were plenty of vendors selling all kind of stuff, the prices of which were probably the cheapest we have seen in mexico. We would recommend you do your buying there (or from the market at Agua Azul), you can haggle as well. Just for info we bought a medium sized colourful skull pained on a leather piece for 700pesos in Cancun. Similar size pieces were around 200 pesos at the site (after haggling).
Another thing, there is a shop next to the ticket centre which sells legit chiapas amber at very reasonable prices. We bought a very nice piece for 85 pesos.
Ivan Kovachev — Google review
Some of the pyramids you can still climb, if you hike the first entrance you will get tired but it’s definitely worth it, because of the clear pathway in the middle of the jungle. Springs, waterfalls and rivers that are crystal clear welcome you and once you reach the summit you have made it to the ancient city.
Louie DaJet — Google review
Stunning archeological site and a must visit when coming to Palenque. To make it an unforgettable experience (and not just an expensive walk through a natural park) I recommend hiring a guide.
During off season it’s a bit more difficult to find groups but you can negotiate lower prices.
I booked a private tour with Enrique in SPANISH and I really enjoyed it (2.5 hours plus 1 hrs jungle). He was young and brought a lot of passion and genuine interest in his job. He had a lot of knowledge about the ruins, Mayan history, temples, medical plants and - belonging to an indigenous tribe - he knows the jungle very well. He answered all my questions, kept taking pictures and took me to the less touristy areas.
I recommend you arrive between 8-9 am to avoid heat and crowds.
Daniela Ullmann / Healthy Lifestyle by Design — Google review
You've already seen Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan. I'd still recommend you to see Palenque as well, it's just so beautiful. I'd also recommend you a guided tour, that takes you into the jungle, it's worth it. Don't forget to bargain a good price, maybe wait a bit outside and team up with other tourists.
Jana R. Reinel — Google review
Most stunning Mayan site I’ve visited. You don’t have to book a tour. You can easily get there by colectivo from ADO station. You might have to leave a few of them since there is limited capacity.
Buy your tickets at the gate and you are good to go. If you want you can book a guide at the site. The prices do vary and are negotiable.
Park entrance 109 MX$ and visit the Mayan site 95 MX$.
Jeroen Geurtsen — Google review
The best ruins we've visited in Mexico so far. Very pleased they are not over crowded with tourists. You can fully appreciate the place and listen to the jungle noises. I had always wanted to visit this place. It was a dream that came true for me.
Nikko — Google review
My favorite site for ruins so far. One of the few places where you can actually climb the steps of the temples to see things up close. Most of the other big sites like Chichen Itza and Coba no longer allow you to climb the steps of the temples. The atmosphere is relaxed and the vendors selling arts and crafts within the ruins area are very low key and not aggressive with their sales. There is, however, a gauntlet of very aggressive tour guides trying to get you to pay a lot of money for guided tours right when you enter the park headquarters. We just paid the park fee(105 pesos) and the ticket to enter the ruins(95 pesos), found a free parking spot near the entrance to the ruins and enjoyed several hours of stunning architecture.
Jim Birchfield — Google review
One of the most impressive archaeological sites in all of Mesoamerica... And the world. The site is extremely large and the amount of structure open to the public is only the point of the iceberg of everything that is really there. That said the size and beauty of Palenques pyramids and temples is second to none. It is a good idea to get in to the site as early as possible (at 8 when it opens) to avoid the clouds and get your best shot at seeing spider and howler monkeys as well as several species of birds. Make sure to wear good shoes as many of the jungle paths can get very slippery. Unfortunately the site museum is closed for remodelations at the moment.
Carlos Rosado — Google review
One of the key Maya temple complex sites to visit. Easily accessed from Palenque town - get a collectivo (shared minivan, MXN 25 per person) from directly outside the ADO Bus Station for a 10 minute ride to the entrance of the Zona. Pay MXN 90 entrance + MXN 105 tax to enter. Toilets, gift shop and currently closed museum are by the ticket office. Continue on down the tarmac road for 300 m until you see a path on the left climbing up into the foliage - there is a ticket check here. Make your own way up steps and a winding climb for 10 minutes until you reach the temple complex. A stunning site in a stunning forest setting, with its elevation affording good views across the Chiapas Plateau. You could easily spend an hour to take it all in, allowing for rests in the shade of the spreading trees.
Sri Ayilavan Moorthy — Google review
If you're anywhere close you must visit this place. I definitely recommend checking Wikipedia or some other website with proper explanations if that's your thing, because their panels are not very thorough, and the history of this city is amazing and very deep.
Sergio Lázaro Martínez — Google review
Really good site, the ruins are well kept, very accessible and very interesting. Wasn’t very busy when we went at 9am which was nice. You will be mobbed by tour guides when you arrive and on your way there but you can just go without them, there’s nothing complicated about it. After buying your tickets from the entrance building the best way to do is to walk up the road about 50 meters until you reach the ‘group of bats’ entrance and go up there. It’s also best to come back this way as the other exit is a longish road that you have to walk down. Else you can drive all the way up and enter from the car park. The tickets cost about 150 pesos per person.
Hayden Hinson — Google review
4.8
(18012)
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5.0
(3718)
Carretera a Palenque- Zona Archaeologica Km. 8, 29960 Palenque, Chis., Mexico
Just a small part of Mexico's history. The whole city is really nice. Night show at Puerta de Tierra is ok, but unfortunately is only in Spanish, they should include an English version to welcome foreign tourism.
J. Carlos Vega — Google review
53$ to get access to the Camino de Ronda, 600m of walkway at the top of the walls from which you can peek at what s behind the facades and on the rooftops. Well worth it. Get in before 5 and you can stay until 6, all alone up there, and ring the bell to exit.
michel gerebtzoff — Google review
Part of old colonial fort. Nice view from the walls.Pirat room at the entrance😁.
Entrance fee 15 pesos.
Also good pub opposite gate🍻
rudolf lusk — Google review
This is a pretty unique attraction to visit in Mexico. An original fortified bastion with a former city gate within the framework of surviving and restored city walls. It appears like something you'd see in Spain or Portugal, which is what makes it so neat. It's not exactly pretty or spectacular, but it is unique. There are a few shops and a restaurant or two on the "old" side of the walls. If you look north, off in the distance you can see the Sea Gate at the other end of the old city. Nice!
Robert Chomicz — Google review
Part of the old city ramparts. Small charge to go up and walk around.
Good views of city.
I C K Ribbins — Google review
Interesting historical location of city of Campeche. We had a knowledgeable guide to take us through the site. I doubt we would have had anywhere near the same experience without a guide, given the limited information plaques at the site.
Vince Scaini — Google review
One of the best historical sights in town! For only 15 pesos you are allowed to climb the walls of the former fortifications with a beautiful view over the colorful city center. Highly recommended, well worth the price. Can be quite hot up there in the sun, though, better bring some water and a hat. You might expect to spent about 20 minutes there, if you walk all around.
Barbora Šedivá — Google review
The gate would deserve renovation, still nice to pass here through Calle 59.
Vit Kunicky — Google review
Part of old colonial fort. Nice view from the walls.Pirat room at the entrance😁.
Entrance fee 15 pesos.
Also good pub opposite gate🍻
rudolf lusk — Google review
Just a small part of Mexico's history. The whole city is really nice. Night show at Puerta de Tierra is ok, but unfortunately is only in Spanish, they should include an English version to welcome foreign tourism.
J. Carlos Vega — Google review
Interesting view from the outside, access is on the inside so you have to walk all the way around and back down the inside street. Got there just a few minutes after they stopped let visitors in 😢
chris walsh — Google review
4.6
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4.5
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Av Cto Baluartes, Zona Centro, 24000 San Francisco de Campeche, Camp., Mexico
What a hidden gem!
We visited on our departure from Campeche and we’re so glad we did!
This site is so special! I love how much it had to offer. You can climb up to certain areas and get a good look at the bedrooms, chambers, etc. you can even lie on the beds! There’s a bit where the exterior has been removed and you can see super well preserved decorations of masks from the temple underneath. What a treat!
There was barely anyone there when we went. It is a trek but not one you’ll regret doing.
Our guide here gave us such a unique perspective into the Mayan culture and what life was like. He did such an incredible job! Worth getting a guide so you can know what you’re looking at - there’s so much to see at this site!
Isabelle Duran — Google review
A must see wonder before you are prohibited to climb some of the ruins. Tren Maya will soon make its appearance - stay tuned!! Come early when it opens so you are not exposed to the heat and less crowded.
Victor Sanchez — Google review
Beautiful ruins. Interesting history (make sure you have a trained guide if you want to learn about the site). Great photo opportunity.
Brian Levitt — Google review
Great quiet place with little tourists. Drove here by car on our way from Xpujil to Campeche. Lots of wildlife as well, birds, butterfly's, Iguanas. Not expensive yet great ruins of all sorts.
Tom Hinskens — Google review
We went to Edzná on a Thursday at around 1pm and were absolutely surprised. The parking directly in front of the entrance is for free (it is around 100 pesos in Chichén itza) there is only a small gate and not many people. Inside were also only a few people and it was just amazing. There is a lot of space and you can watch everything without stress. You can climb on all buildings except the main temple. It is totally different to Chichen itza and really stunning! We can recommend it!!
Benjamin Bahmann — Google review
This place was soo awesome! I'd of said cool but it was so damn hot I almost got heat exhaustion it was so hot. Definitely worth a visit though.
itschorybitch — Google review
Awesome site. Very raw. Difficult walking around and up the stairs. You cannot climb the big pyramid, but the rest is ok.
No snack bar, no reception, some bathrooms. Bring your good hiking shoes and a hat.
Javy Javy — Google review
Less visitors than iguanas for sure. Beautiful place, mix of restored and wild. Lovely
michel gerebtzoff — Google review
Absolutely amazing but make sure you have anti mosquito spray.
Luc Schenkel — Google review
Great and impressive archeological area. However, to be fair, many stairs are reconstructed, and some faces are replicas.
Javier GM — Google review
A really nice place to visit if you have the time. A very beautiful maya sight with many well preserved structures which has not yet been bombarded by tourists. We were there in the middle of the day and there were maybe 10 other people. The best part is that you can climb nearly every structure (except for the main temple), perfect maya temple to visit if you are done with all the busy ones like tulum and chichen itza!
Julien van der waal — Google review
DO NOT MISS SEEING THESE RUINS!!
You will not be disappointed! Thd ruins are in incredible shape and 100% accessible. Cold Water and bathrooms are available on site. Put aside a few hours to see it all
Rob Delgado — Google review
Bijām piektdienā, cena 90 pesso.
The most prominent building at this site is the main temple located in the square. Built on a 40 m high platform, it provides a wide overview of the surroundings. Another important building located on the square is the ball field. The ball area consists of two parallel structures. The upper rooms of the ball court were probably used to store images of the gods associated with the events, as well as items needed for the games.
Edzna was inhabited as early as 400 BC and was abandoned c. 1500 AD. During the occupation, a government was established whose power was legitimized by the relationship between the governors and the deities. During the Late Classic period, Edzna was part of the Calakmula state. Edzna may have been inhabited as early as 600 BC, but it took until 200 AD before it became a major city. The name Edzná comes from "Itzaes nama". The architectural style of this place shows signs of the Puuc style, although it is far away from the Puuc Hills sites. The decline and eventual abandonment of Edzna remains a mystery today.
Edzná was opened in 1907. The first organized excavations began in 1958. In 1986, coordinating agencies began employing Guatemalan refugees in excavation, restoration, and maintenance at Edzna. This project was funded by various international organizations. [From Wikipedia]
Zona Arqueológica de Uxmal is a well-preserved ancient Mayan site located in a peaceful setting. Its extraordinary size and distinctiveness make it an attractive destination for both amateur and expert ruin enthusiasts. Famous structures such as the Magician's House, Pigeon House, and Governor's Palace are among its main attractions. As part of the Puuc region, this archaeological site is a must-see if you're in the area.
Very nice archeological site. The ruins are very beautiful. For me it was nicer then chichen itza because here you have more the feeling you are walking in a city. Due the pandemic you can not see everything and you can only follow 1 direction but it’s still worth to visit it , it’s also not crowded. Price is 461 pesos and you can only pay cash. ATM is available. You can not bring your backpack inside, water is no problem.
anthonyponette — Google review
This is a must see. Make sure you get a guide and you will love to see the 'city' and imagine how it was there thousand years ago. Plan for at least 3-4 hours and bring water and good shoes.
Joop Verbaken — Google review
Really cool ruins to explore.
Price was 531 pesos to enter per person. Toilets and refreshments available at ticket office.
The ruins were really cool and I enjoyed imagining myself in the ancient Mayan city. Mains things to see are the "pyramid of the magician", the nuns quadrangle, the area where they played a kind of ancient basketball ball, then climb up the steps to the governor's palace with the "grand pyramid on the right", and then there's a few other temples and shrines to see.
You aren't allowed the climb the pyramids anymore due to tourists causing damage.
I would highly recommend reading some kind of guide as you walk around so you can understand what the ruins are. We decided not to pay for a guide but used our guide book/online resources to find out more about the structures. This really helped add to the experience. Otherwise would have been 500 pesos to just walk around some ruins, which can get boring quickly.
Bring a sun hat, plenty of water, and arrive early! We got there at 8:30 and were the only ones there. By the time we left around 10:30/11:00 it became really busy.
Jeremy Beaumont — Google review
A very well kept archaeological site. The ground are clean and easy to walk through. Unfortunately after the pandemic we weren't allowed inside the pyramid or the surrounding buildings. Hopefully they will figure something out as it would be nice to climb the pyramid.
Andrew — Google review
One of the best Mayan ruins. In some aspects even better than Chichen Itza: it more extensive and better carvings. Also somewhat less crowds. Highly recommended. It's about 1:20 drive from Merida. Only annoying thing is that you need to buy two tickets: one federal (cheap) and one for the local government (very expensive for Mexican standards). Total around 600 pesos per person which even by US standards not cheap. But definitely worth the money, just don't be surprised.
Csaba Csaki — Google review
Very interesting place. Definitely worth the trip. Many interesting buildings and great architecture. And no tourists at all. It's like Chichen Iza without people. Quiet and really nice walk. You should spend some time just sitting there.
But they closed the most interesting parts of the site. Governance is poor.
Vassiliy Kalabin — Google review
Definitely worth a visit, if you are interested in Maya ruins and their history! You can't climb the main pyramid but many other ruins can be entered!
Bernhard Weber — Google review
Entrance for Mexicans = 240 pesos.
Entrance for foreigners = 700 pesos (I forget the exact amount)
I highly recommend that you get a guide in your language (800 pesos) and that you share the costs with other visitors. I did this with a Spanish tourist 🇪🇦😊
Do take a bottle (1L) of water with you and a hat. It's super hot and you will get thirsty.
Hector Santillan — Google review
Add this to your itinerary if in Yucatan. Such a magical place! Getting to experience this on a beautiful day was amazing!
Rented a car drove thru the Ruta Puc and saw several archeological sites plus little towns.
J Rodriguez — Google review
Went there early in the morning, before the crowds and loved it! The best thing is that there are so many well preserved details. The art is breathtaking! It's worth taking a guide. Years ago I went to see the lightshow at night, which was a great experience. One of the most beautiful arqueologic sites im Mexico.
Esteffi777 — Google review
What a magical place. We were impressed with how well kept the ruins were and how clean the area was. The ruins are well immersed in the nature, Nd kids run chasing iguanas that look as if they were guarding the pyramids. You won't be disappointed as this is one of the most beautiful mayan archaeological sites.
Jorge Bisteni — Google review
Loved it!!!
We were so glad we did Uxmal also after Chichen Itza as it was completely different, the sites were more accessible, you can even enter some of the buildings, and overall fewer visitors. And no vendors at all!!!
We arrived at 8.30 am in the morning and the place was empty, the souvenir shops at the entrance were not even opened. It filled up a little when we left at noon, but still nothing compared to Chichen Itza.
Entry was 95 pesos plus 461 pesos Federal tax. Parking was another 120 pesos or so. Guides are available at the entrance. We didn't choose one. There are a few info signs spread around which gave us enough to read in addition to the guide book.
The only toilets are at the entrance.
A lot of iguanas, sunbathing which gave the place an additional nice touch.
Lars Simon — Google review
Wow! This exceeded my expectations! This site is so well preserved. And large!
Not as big as Chichen-Itzá but just as impressive- and nowhere near as crowded. Very well preserved.
We’ve taken a tour at nearly every site we’ve gone to and the one given here was by far the most extensive. They take you all over! I loved hearing the different perspectives and being able to have access to different rooms and viewpoints. Worth it! You don’t have to negotiate as there is a stand inside where you can get a tour guide with the prices clearly posted.
Try to come in the morning to avoid the heat of midday! There is a town near by where you can get really good tacos! And go to Kankirixche cenote after to cool down.
Isabelle Duran — Google review
It was very quiet of tourist but unfortunately there are areas under construction right now
But it was very impressive though
We went there at 11 and it’s calm and not to hot in the end of October
Definetly a Place to visit
Marvin Dronia — Google review
These ruins are a must see, we visited on a Monday, and there was barely anyone else there. While it’s a bit pricey to visit it’s most definitely worth going. Our tour guide Jorge was very informative and almost a spirit guide.
lillypau — Google review
Our bucket list is to visit as many UNESCO heritage sites as possible.
We were so happy to have visited Uxmal Archaeological Zone. What a treasure. We spent several hours wandering around this site.
We love the Mayan culture is being preserved. This is a great day activity that you should not miss.
John & Heather Brown Bacon — Google review
Mayan ruins were really cool!
I personally feel like you don’t need a tour guide (which cost about $50) there were signs 🪧 that explain each of the structures throughout the experience. If you do get a guide don’t get Jorge. He didn’t know much about the history of the ruins and just said everything was a house.
Bring water with you because once you enter there is no place to get water or use the bathroom .
Bring a hat, wear comfortable shoes, and dress lightly it’s super hot!
Litty Symphorien — Google review
Excellent Site with quite some history. However, the guided tours are quite expensive for the level of fluency the guides offer in languages such as French or English. I recommend to study the history on your own and spare a couple of hours walking around and taking pictures
Alex Blanco — Google review
Awesome place. Very big and well consevated. Prices are high. You can explore a lot and learn so much. A place to visit again. Read about it before your visit.
Javier GM — Google review
Once you get over the excessive parking price of $120 and the not-as-crazy-as-Chichen Itzá entry price this place is FANTASTIC!
It's like Tomb Raider. In real life. And. It. Rocks.
It's awesome.
Lots and lots to see and to explore while not getting harassed by vendors and people trying to sell you stuff you don't want to buy.
I enjoyed Uxmal waaaay more than Chichen Itzá, there's less people, more eclectic stuff and you feel like you're on an expedition. It's truly amazing.
You can't miss it!!!
Eitan Feldman — Google review
I wish you could see the top of the pyramid. Or the view from it.
Besides that beautiful monuments, love the restoration work.
Love the lizards not knowing they shouldn't sit there
Alexandre Ederer — Google review
A must-visit site. Awe inspiring and less crowded than ChichenItza. Our guide, Fernando was knowledgeable and tried to make it fun. We were able to climb up and see it close up. A fun day.
Natalina Lane — Google review
Great experience! I’ve been here multiple times and I recommend it. Keep in mind that’s usually very hot and you’d have to walk a lot.
Yolimar Cabello — Google review
My favorite place in the Yucatan! And definitely worth the drive from Merida. Absolutely incredible to walk through this ancient Mayan city and immerse yourself among the ruins and lizards. It was way less crowded than Chichen Itza, which made the overall experience more enjoyable and less hectic. You are actually able to give the site the attention it deserves. When you visit, make sure to bring water and a hat!
Thomas Charles Nantz — Google review
It was our first encounter with Mayan civilization when the House of Magician came into our sight, which was really mind-blowing to us all! Even thought we did some homework before visiting the ruins, still we spent 4+ hours there, so much historical stories behind each building / each piece of sculpture, and so much knowledge to learn! It’s a place to visit again, you can completely immerse yourself into the Mayan mystery without hustle.
Recommend to plan well and arrive at 8:00 am to avoid the hot weather later on, we brought snacks and drinks so that we could get lunch a bit late at Muna and came back to continue on another site nearby which was Choco museum.
Linda — Google review
We so much preferred our time here to Chichen Itza. Firstly, it's an incredible whole city complex with multiple pyramids. You can't walk up the pyramids themselves but you can walk up and around the complex and it's all a giant elevated, Mayan-constructed platform on top of a Cenote. The carvings were incredibly well preserved and detailed. Just gorgeous. And a peaceful, natural vibe to the whole place. We went on a rainy Sunday, so maybe that had something to do with it, but there were plenty of locals (free for Mexicans on Sundays) and not so many tourists and the ones that were there (lolol like yours truly) seemed genuinely interested and respectful of the space. There were food and souvenirs available for sale but only at the entrance/exit so you didn't feel barraged by commercialism along the whole route like at Chichen Itza - not that I'm against people hustling to make a living, just, the vibe here and our attention was so much more focused on the space and it's history and we felt more relaxed and enjoyed it more. More trees for shade too it felt like, and it appeared more wheelchair accessible in many parts (though not all structures for sure). Finally, the Choco History museum across the street is totally worth a stop if you're out here and have the time/resources, left a review for that too, it was delightful. Would have liked to have checked out the nearby hacienda and its history had time and transport permitted. Final note, if you take the Oriente Bus, don't despair: the last one back to Merida was supposed to come for 5, but it did actually make it around 5:40 after all. A wonderful day trip from Mérida all in all;
The Cathedral of Merida, located in the heart of the city, is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. It was built in 1592 on top of an ancient Mayan temple, and features stunning stone work. There are regular English tours available, as well as services in Spanish.
The oldest Catholic Cathedral and Church in North America. It was amazing to go to Mass here and experience history. Imagining the millions of pilgrims and Catholics that have worshipped here over centuries.
The authentic structure gives the feeling of traveling through time and being in an International landmark is something special.
Located directly in Central Mérida Yucatan Mexico across from the plaza is the iconic landmark. The Church is very peaceful and popular for tourists. But, it still functions as a Catholic Church with Masses held daily.
This cultural heritage center is where Catholics formed their first Cathedral in North America. Then branching out to form missions throughout North, Central, and South America. You can feel the connection between the past and the present in a Holy Site.
Then enjoy the food, shopping, and the cultural park directly across the street. A great place for family to visit and also fellowship in Christ!
Sean Thompson (Master Reviewer & Pics) — Google review
The Merida Cathedral is a classic example of Spanish colonial architecture. Such Cathedrals you can see all over Americas, from Mexico down to Peru.
It dominates the main Plaza Grande with its massive stonework and two bell towers. Foundations and first levels were built from demolished Mayan temples in the area. Both, inside and outside are not that decorated, but still simple and stylish.
Dejan Braki — Google review
Only sad that we visited the place while at night thus no guided tours. The church from the outside looked spectacular and quite big. The presence of the church is commanding in the plaza as everywhere you go it shows it’s splendor.
Zacarias Michilinsky — Google review
I have loved visiting this church to experience its culture, heritage and events in Mérida. The Friday light show, Pok tok fire ball Saturday, and market on Sunday all around.
Katrina Julia — Google review
The main entrance was locked and closed and you have to use the side door to take a peep. The architect is marvelous, majestic and colonial in designs.
John Yong — Google review
An experience on its own. If you are visitng Merida, go to the centro!! Everything is accessible from there. You can grab an uber and not a taxi because taxi’s charge double! Just enjoy life while there and soak in the culture.
Edson Mendez — Google review
A beautiful cathedral located in Merida's center square. The church has two towers and a cupola. There is daily mass and Sunday mass is offered throughout the day. There are plenty of fans available. Please be mindful when entering the cathedral as people in attendance may be in prayer.
Rodolfo Mendoza — Google review
An impressively large and plain cathedral church. From the outside it appears more like a fortress than a church. Once you venture indoors it takes on more familiar, ecclesiastical looks. The church is laid out in a main nave and two side isles, hall configuration. Outside of its sheer size the interior doesn't offer any memorable architecture, though it is impressive. Very quiet and cool inside, lots of beggars at the entrances.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
This plaza has plenty of trees and benches. There are plenty of outlets spread all throughout, conveniently located behind the benches, so you can sit and relax while you can plug in your device(s) to charge.
There's always people walking around, or just chilling there.
Not a lot of trash, as compared to other places, I can say that this place is kept clean daily.
Police is always present, which adds a sense of safety.
Unregulated street vendors and a lot of people going around asking for money becomes annoying real quick, hence the 4 star.
Plenty of stores and restaurants are all around for the visitor to enjoy, information/tour centers(businesses) also all over.
The Cathedral itself is nice.
Intense Cloud — Google review
Pretty church, impressive architecture. The bells are nice to listen to from the town square. The lights in the evening are pretty
Fiorella Calderoni — Google review
Two things about the cathedral. 1) It's the oldest cathedral in the continental Americas, dating from the mid- 1500s 2) They have a lazer mapping onto the cathedral weekly that's amazing. Well worth your time!!!
Charles Cooper — Google review
This is one of the oldest cathedrals in America. The interior is spectacular and its history is beautiful. Great secrets and stories that AMERICA keeps.
Paseo de Montejo is a wide boulevard lined with grand buildings in Merida, Mexico. It is home to some of the most iconic buildings and monuments of the city, and was inspired by the French boulevard.
Very nice Avenue that you can either by walking or by bike. When we went (sunday), the one side of the street was reserved only for bicycle so it was super Nice
Grégoire .Luthier — Google review
Nice avenue to walk on. Finally some safe and broad sidewalk. Nice buildings and restaurants.
Rianne Louter — Google review
Nice walk with a lot of colonial buildings.
But very few restaurants and shopping.
Not a lot of variety, only buildings and more buildings.
We liked Centro historico over Paseo montejo.
Alva Fam — Google review
Named for the Spanish founder of Merida, it is the nicest area of the city. The street has a great number of bars, restaurants and museums to explore. The north end is the big tourist area, many come from other Mexican states. At night the locals come to the restaurants for dinner and drinks. On Sunday the street is closed to cars so people can walk and bike it at a leisurely pace.
david turvene — Google review
The buildings are beautiful, the area is clean and very safe. Some of the architecture is just amazing and romantic.
Laguna Artz — Google review
This is supposed to be wealthy part of town, but aside from the few mansions that have been turned into museums, I see nothing out of the ordinary here. The kinds of shops and restaurants they have here, you can find in pretty much any town in the U.S.
Also, for being a high-end neighborhood, there sure is a lot of graffiti and abandoned buildings. Maybe during the heniquen days this place was wealthy, but not anymore.
briantravelman — Google review
Paseo de Montejo is inspired by the French Boulevard perfect for walk.
I recommend you started since "Remate del paseo de Montejo" and finish in "Monumento a la Patria", if you want to walk. In this way are Mansions, Restaurants and Monuments.
Note: Take care with sun.
Ale — Google review
Beautiful street and lots to seee!
Gabriel Mieles — Google review
Beautiful road of the city of Merida. Clean and modern, perfect road to walk, run and ride a bike. Many beautiful colonial architectures along the road. At day time not many people are walking because of the sun. Approximately from 6pm, people come out.
Girina Koo — Google review
A broad boulevard that was supposed to be reminiscent of Paris but falls way short. Some nice buildings are located along this road, but they are widely spaced and dont really have the feel of a city. Most buildings along the road are occupied by banks and hotels. There are several modern buildings that dont really fit in. The double row of trees on each side of the street is the real star as its both visually pleasing and provides the much needed shade.
The Convento de San Antonio de Padua is a historical and religious site in Izamal, known for being one of the first monasteries built by the Spanish conquerors in the western hemisphere. It was constructed using stones from a destroyed Maya temple, including some with unique maze-like designs. Visitors can enjoy a sound-and-light show three nights a week and explore the monastery's arcades. The site also includes a small shop at its entrance where visitors can purchase water.
Nestled in the heart of Izamal, the Convento de San Antonio stands as a testament to both the rich history of the region and the enduring beauty of colonial architecture. This expansive convent, with its sun-soaked yellow facade, exudes an undeniable charm that captivates visitors from the moment they arrive.
Upon entering the Convento de San Antonio, one is immediately struck by the tranquility that pervades the surroundings. The well-maintained grounds provide a serene backdrop for exploration and contemplation. The courtyard transports visitors to a bygone era, inviting them to wander and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
The architectural grandeur of the convent is nothing short of impressive. The imposing structure, dating back to the 16th century, boasts a harmonious blend of Spanish and Mayan influences. The ornate details adorning the facade speak to the craftsmanship of the artisans who contributed to the convent's construction. Each archway and column seems to tell a story, making it a haven for history enthusiasts and architectural aficionados alike.
Inside the Convento de San Antonio, the artistry continues to unfold. The chapel, with its high vaulted ceilings and gilded altars, is a breathtaking testament to religious devotion and artistic mastery. The delicate frescoes that adorn the walls narrate tales of the region's complex history, providing a visual feast for those eager to delve into the cultural tapestry of the Yucatán.
Visitors have the opportunity to explore the convent's various rooms, each revealing a different facet of its storied past. From the living quarters of the monks to the impressive library housing ancient manuscripts, every corner of the Convento de San Antonio unveils a rich tapestry of history, culture, and spirituality.
The convent's location in Izamal adds to its allure. Known as the "Yellow City" due to its characteristic golden buildings, Izamal provides a picturesque setting for this historical gem. Visitors can easily lose themselves in the narrow cobblestone streets, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals.
The Convento de San Antonio in Izamal stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of colonial architecture and the rich cultural heritage of the region. Its expansive grounds, intricate details, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a blend of tranquility, history, and architectural marvels.
Viva Izamal — Google review
Visiting the town, better say village of Izamal was supposed to be one of the highlights of our Yucatan tour. Unfortunately, we left disappointed and shocked.
San Antonio of Padua has a great importance in our family as we were married in his Church in our hometown and both our children baptized there. Therefore, we visit this saint's Churches wherever we travel and find them.
When I planned our Yucatan tour I was really excited to learn there was one here in Izamal, as I had no idea about that before. Add to that the yellow-white beauty of the city and it was put on our tour map as a highlight.
The convent is very big, with a huge rectangular courtyard right in the center of Izamal. It was built in the mid 16c when Spaniards arrived, and the stones of demolished Mayan pyramids around were used as foundations.
When we arrived the Mass was going on so it was closed.
We waited patiently more than half an hour to be finished and to enter the Church. During that time we explored entire grounds, took a photo from every angle, found the monuments of both - San Antonio and Pope John Paul and spent some time in convent's store where we bought some souvenirs for home.
My wife was first in a new formed line, and everybody knew us as we were the only tourists (non-Mexicans) there.
Finally the door opened. The priest announced in Spanish that only those for a new Mass can enter. I explained him on my poor Spanish (with help of locals from the line) that we waited 40 min and just wanted to visit for 5 min. He declined that sharply. After my trying to persuade him explaining where we are from he started yelling at me telling us to leave. I have never experienced such a behavior of Church member. It was more like a prison guard than a priest.
We were shocked, surprised and felt humiliated. Same face impressions I saw on locals from the line who didn't feel pleasant about that.
I am sorry I don't know his name to public it, but he's such a shame for the Convent.
I also feel very bad to rate my Patron saint's Church 3, but 5 is for the site and 1 for the priest, so it makes the average 3.
Dejan Braki — Google review
Beautiful, historical place to spend your afternoon. We go to Izamal a lot and love spending the afternoon in the convent.
Sutharee Na — Google review
Izamal so beautiful town that we discovered on our way from Chichenitza to Merida. Amazing and elegant "Convento" . Inside you feel relaxed
Alex Daza — Google review
Convento de San Antonio is spectacular, but the town itself is even more gorgeous! We didn't have the chance to take a tour.
You will enjoy this cute town!
Samuel Daigle — Google review
The convent is a spectacular sight and the very reason why most tourists come to the town of Izamal. Here are a few things you may want to know. If you come in the summer, as I did, it will be hot. I mean, hot, and humid. Beware. The convent is open to all and there is no entry fee for visiting on your own. When I was there, the church was closed (which was a bummer.) It's an impressive place though, with a rich history that's worth reading about as it will make your visit more enjoyable.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
“Magical town”. Very interesting convent, which has an enormous atrium and its walls colored in yellow and white. It’s a nice place to visit and spend a few hours. Make sure to ride a carriage around town. The tour guides are fantastic!
Your mom No — Google review
A very beautiful convent that is situated in the towns square. There are stairs that lead to the town's center. When you walk up through the main entrance, you are greeted with an image of the Virgen Mary. The convent was visited by Pope John Paul II. The local market is next to the convent and the town's letters are also adjacent. A few blocks away you will find a pyramid that overlooks the town. I highly recommend for a day trip.
This is an active convent with a church inside. Please be mindful and considerate when touring the grounds.
Rodolfo Mendoza — Google review
Friendly peaceful historical town. We visited on the way from Merida to Cancun. The whole town is beautiful.
Wenduo Liu — Google review
An excellent place of history and religious architecture. We were given a tour by a local student. The price/donation to the place was ten pesos a person and the tour lasted about 20 minutes or less. They do keep a small shop right at the entrance which we took advantage of by the fact that they also sell water.
Zacarias Michilinsky — Google review
Beautiful place, and don’t miss visiting also Piramide Kinich Kakmo, 7 minutes walk from Convento and free of charge, climb on pyramid and enjoy the views.
El Castillo is a prominent Maya temple and step-pyramid located within the archaeological site of Chichen Itza. The Temple of Kukulkan, as it is also known, stands out as the highlight of this ancient complex. Visitors can choose to explore the site on their own or opt for a tour with a private archaeologist to gain deeper insights into its history and cultural significance.
We booked this excursion through Royal Caribbean on our Cozumel day.
First we had to take a ferry from Cozumel to the mainland. We then met our tour guide and boarded a Mercedes van. We then drove to Chechen Itza, it took about 2 hours. So about 3 hours in all to get there. Snacks were provided.
This was a wonderful experience. Our guide kept us entertained the entire way out there. He was truly a Mayan history buff. He loved his job.
The temples are amazing. They had an incredible understanding of mathematics and astronomy. It’s truly worth the adventure to get out there and see them.
Darren — Google review
This is one of the seven wonders in the world and is amazing. The structure is well preserve. The whole location, this Mayan city is amazing and it brings you back to see how admirable this civilization was. Definitely a place to visit. It can be hard on little kids and elderly, however, don't get discourage just prepare accordingly. Definitely get plenty of water as it is outdoors and very hot.
Maria Marshall — Google review
We didn't want to wait in long line...got us a 50 minute tour guide. He was great! Could have gotten an hour and 1/2 long tour but that was too long for us! Our guide did a great job explaining everything to us!! His English was understandable!! Then he let us roam the place on our own!
I can't imagine that era people being able to use the constellations to make that building accordingly to their calendar!!! And for there to be 3 in one!!!!too cool!!! Too smart!!!!
Make sure you have lots of American dollar bills. So much would have been just a $1 if we had brought $1 with us!! All we had was pesos!!
If you don't have a hat?!?! You will need one!!! Buy it in the town right before the ruin!!! Cheap...$5...we paid at the entrance $25!!!
Sidney & Jeannie Hughes — Google review
Just go. Stay wherever you can nearby and just go. Get a tour guide so you know what the heck you're looking at. There's a lot to see, bring serious sun protection and water. Be respectful and don't leave anything behind. Do the clapping thing 👏 in front of the Castillo so you can hear the sound of the quetzal!
Priscilla Arballo — Google review
Great to see it in person. Definitely an impressive building! Make sure to arrive early as you will get the chance to have some beautiful pictures from the pyramid with only a few of other people on them.
The pyramid will be the first building you will approach starting from the official entrance.
Axel Steer — Google review
Felt surreal to see another wonder of the world up close.
It was a truly lovely experience.
If you're ever in Mexico please make sure you visit.
olatayo ariba — Google review
Dont like that you have to buy two tickets to get in 1. for the state 2. to actually get in. There are a lot of vendors everywhere and a lot of guides before you get in. I actually made it for the last hour, and it was empty and was able to take some good pictures without a lot of people.
Rafael Garcia — Google review
My first trip to a wonder of the world and it didn’t disappoint! Beautiful Mayan ruins that are a must seen if visiting Cancun/ Surrounding Area, our guide was outstanding and took us on a long detailed tour of the entire ruins (much more to see than just the temple)
Highly recommend getting there are early as possible to avoid the crowds and the incredibly hot weather, shade is not in abundance so plenty of water and sun cream advised. Highly Recommend.
Dan Bulpin — Google review
Really good. Incredible place and generally set up well. Don’t get a tour from the people outside the entrance as it’s double what the price is inside. Just after you have gone through ticket barrier. We paid 1000 peso for private tour for two people.
andy baker — Google review
An incredible experience. The area is much larger than I anticipated with so many other ruins. Not to be missed and well deserved of it's place in the 7 new Wonders of the World. No need to buy tickets in advance. We were there before it opened at 8am and on a Sunday, the busiest day as Mexicans get free admittance and we only waited 10 mins to get a ticket. Lots of people say there's no shade and while that's the case around El Castillo, there's lots of shade in the overall area
Mary Phelan — Google review
Priceless memories of one of the new 7 wonders of the world. Very hot! Bugs weren't an issue in May. Bring and/or drink plenty of water. Expect to walk. Amazing sights and very good tour guides.
Josh .O — Google review
Great experience definitely worth visiting. If you do some reading before you go to learn the history and cultural significance you don't need a guide.
We did have a guide and it was nice getting some of the little bits of specialized information.
Tony Hungate — Google review
It’s an amazing place, one of the wonders of the world, you cannot but the tickets online so you must do the line, if you go before 11am the line is 10-15 min, after 12 could be more than 30 min, the price is 25-30 usd and it’s worth it
Boris Davidson — Google review
During the day it's wonderful, but during the night is breathtaking. Every Sunday you can take the chance to walk in the ruins during the night and Enjoy the magical light show around the Maya history ( 30 minutes duration circa ).
The availability is reduced, so I suggest to book well in Advance for your tickets.
Pietro Dell' Erba — Google review
Truly amazing archeological site. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable. I learned so much. Not too crowded. Watch out for the vendors. They will rip you off. Silver is never true silver. Always bargain for better price!
Marta Falkiewicz — Google review
this thing is so cool! i would definitely recommend getting a guide or doing some of your own reading/research to understand all of the incredible detail in here. there is so much math, planning, culture beyond the beauty. super super interesting, our guide was great. i was able to get a tour package from cancun for $58, which seemed good since entry is $39. i think skip the line tickets would be worth it, there is so much to see.
whitney sol — Google review
It is an impressive sight. Must see if you are in Yucatan. If course, the place is very crowded. And it is hot, much hotter than at the coast. Be sure to bring sun protection. If you ask yourself why everyone is clapping, try it in front of the stairs and took you'll hear the effect that sounds like a bird.
Parking is available but it's a decent walk to reach the pyramid.
S S — Google review
Our guide was fantastic! We got there right as they opened and it was perfect. There were very few people there and it gave us plenty of time to get some breathtaking shots! I highly recommend taking the drive out here to see this New World Wonder!
Amanda Ligenza — Google review
It is truly an experience everyone should do. It's so amazing how we are still able to touch these ancient stones that once housed the Mayan city. Mysterious as they are the history is rich and there is lots of information to read. Many vendors litter the entire park, so come prepare to purchase at least 1 souvenir. Keep an eye out for the Jaguars 🐆
Dusty Bottoms — Google review
Like how can anyone say anything bad about this place? Definitely get a tour guide because they while give you so much knowledge on the Mayan culture. Amazing! Incredible! Phenomenal! Truly the 7th wonder of the world! Please go see it, especially on March 21 or September 21 for the equinox!
Suelen Chimanski — Google review
Went with a Cancun Adventure tour guide that picked us up at our hotel. David was great as our guide. There are a lot of ruins to see throughout the archeological area. Also a lot of pushy vendors selling the same souvenirs. Would give 5 stars except for all the pushy vendors. I don't agree that they are inside the site selling their stuff.
Damian Reyes — Google review
Truly a magnificent wonderer of the world - not just a stunning piece of art - build with so much knowledge of math, and physics that is mind blowing. A must see place for history lovers. Impressive to say the least the capability and knowledge of Mayan civilization. Forever in awe of their values, believes and way of living …
Noshin Hashim — Google review
Phenomenal ruins of ancient Mayas. Fabulous and unforgettable. There are also a lot of sellers selling fabulous souvenirs for the best prices we could find on Yucatan.
Alexander Parson — Google review
What can I even say about the wonder of the world!!!
It's amazing with all the history still around it. Definitely recommend a guide to explain the history behind each and every element present in there. Had a wonderful time as my friends and I visited at the earliest hours, so it wasn't too hot or crowded.
Veda K T — Google review
It's a modern wonder of the world and impressive in its set up. It may also rely a little too much on its marketing to draw up a crowd. Did this as a day trip from Playa del Carmen and it's possible, just be prepared to get up very early to skip the crowds and it's going to be a long day. It helps to do this with a guide or tour group just to get on site, there's lots of directing the tourist cars to other car parks... The entrance itself is very well constructed but told in the afternoon, once crowds arrive it can get overwhelming. The site itself is large but all walkable, well maintained (and told even heavily renovated). The guide can provide information on the site (with a warning that all of it is informed conjecture as nothing was written down). The pyramid itself is iconic and impressive (but not unique or the largest I'm led to understand). It's all sealed off now, so no going inside anymore. The building with pillars is also of note and worth spending time to admire. The ball game area was closed off. You'll get some awesome photos here and see something that is likely to be a lifetime experience so it's worth your time, though would struggle to say you'll spend a day seeing all the ruins alone (likely something else will need to be tagged on). Noticed lots of stalls setting up for the afternoon so the morning is the ideal time to avoid crowds (might need a guide for this). I have no doubt that marketing plays a part with the fame of this site though because of it it's made it an easy place to introduce yourself to the Mayans. Just beware if it's a solstice or an equinox expect insane crowds.
Julian Johnson — Google review
An incredible place to see with all the special things entailing (echoing of the bird when clapping etc). A truly special experience and definitely worth doing. After entering I would highly recommend taking a tour guide because otherwise you just don't know what this place is about. The guide can give you many more insights and it's worth spending the extra money for it.
Dani Knoll — Google review
A Mesmerizing Experience: Unveiling the Hidden Marvels
This remarkable attraction left me in awe! I wholeheartedly endorse seeking out a knowledgeable guide or delving into your own reading and research to fully appreciate the intricate details woven into this place. Beyond its sheer beauty, there’s a fascinating blend of mathematics, meticulous planning, and rich cultural context.
During my visit, our guide was exceptional, enhancing the experience with their insights. I managed to secure a tour package from Cancun for a reasonable $58, considering that the regular entry fee is $39. If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend investing in skip-the-line tickets; trust me, there’s an abundance of captivating sights waiting to be explored! 🌟🌎
Now, let’s delve into some practical tips to make the most of your visit:
Arrive Early: To truly savor the magic of this place, set your alarm clock and arrive early. The tranquility of the morning hours allows you to absorb the grandeur without the hustle and bustle of crowds. Plus, you’ll beat the scorching heat that descends later in the day.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: The sun can be relentless, and shade is a rare commodity. Be prepared by carrying a sturdy water bottle. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself as you sip cool water while marveling at the intricate architecture.
Sun Protection: Don your favorite wide-brimmed hat, slather on sunscreen, and wear lightweight, breathable clothing. The heat can be stifling, and there’s not much shade to seek refuge under.
Remember, this place isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a living testament to human ingenuity and cultural heritage. So, go forth, explore, and let the wonders of this site leave an indelible mark on your soul! 🌄🌿🌞
Clayton C. — Google review
One of the new wonders of the ancient world. An absolutely stunning location and one which you cannot miss when visiting Mexico. Filled with history and fascinating features you will need a local historian and guide to truly experience the wonder of this site.
Matthew Harwood — Google review
Incredible Mayan ruins 💙. HAVE TO SEE if you are in Mexico as one of the 7 new wonders on the earth 🌍. But … I have to say, there were more people like on summer festival. Craziness. Also is possibility to do your own Mayan calendar construe of your date birth. Very love this 🖤. Spiritual and deep.
Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Yucatan Peninsula, is an ancient Maya city that boasts of some of the most intricate architectural buildings, astronomical observatory structures and remarkable stone monoliths. The city's iconic Temple of Kukulkan or El Castillo pyramid ruin stands tall as a testament to this great civilization's achievements. Visitors can explore this enigmatic site through guided tours and learn about the ancient Maya civilization's history and culture.
You have to go with a tour guide to really appreciate the history of this place. It’s one of the new wonders of the world and it’s definitely worth a visit. The natural sound system was amazing, plus the tour guide gives you the reason why it’s considered to be a wonder of the world and it’s just awesome! Lots of vendors but we were in a tour group so it’s easier not to get distracted by them. Hats/umbrellas are recommended, thankfully the tour provided umbrellas. The structures are related to each other and we learned a lot about the history of this place. Highly recommended!
Oliver Balderas — Google review
This place is amazing. Lots of History make sure to take a tour so you guys can get the most out of it. Amigo tours is awesome if you're looking for a recommendation. Ask for Rodrigo he is the best!
Big Brother — Google review
Excellent experience to see. Make sure you're prepared for the onslaught of vendors as you go through the gates as it is very much a tourist trap. Take time to explore the surrounding buildings as there are quite a few, all with their own history as well. It's quite a feature to see and there is lots to fill your day with.
Skoe — Google review
The Mayan temples here are preserved extremely well and are a must visit when you are in Mexico. The history and the architecture are fascinating and the fact that they were built so well is incredible. Make sure to have at least 1.5 hours to cover everything and more to do it at a leisurely pace.
RV — Google review
A must see when visiting the Yucatan. Amigo Tours out of Cancun makes the process simple. I highly recommend this tour. Amigo picks you up and drops you off from your hotel. The bus is nice and roomy. The cenote lunch buffet was very good.
Traveler Joe — Google review
A must see and definitely a place to add to your bucket list. Drove from Cancun and it took about 2 and half hours with little to no traffic for most of the drive. Definitely worth booking a tour when factoring in the price of tolls & gas if you are looking for a more budget friendly option. The toll lines could take up to 15 minutes. Several times just before arriving we were waved our by tour locations that made it seem like we had to get a tour but, luckily from reading all the reviews before we just keep driving. We didn’t get a tour guide and definitely would not say it is mandatory although I did already know a lot about the location and culture before this trip. If you don’t then getting a tour with transportation would definitely be a great option. We parked at a local spot just before the official parking which was about a five minute walk to the park. We bought tickets when we arrived. We went on a week day and arrived a little before noon and waited about 15-20 minutes to get our tickets. We were able to walk the entire park in less than 3 hours. Plenty of options from souvenir vendors all over the park and from the walk in. Overall it was an amazing experience and definitely the best place we went to when visiting the the Yucatán peninsula.
Keaton Klemencic — Google review
Great place to visit. We stopped here on our excursion. We had a guided tour. I would suggest showing up very early before the heat and massive crowds show up. I would also recommend a guided tour so you can have someone explain everything you are seeing . The pyramid is absolutely gorgeous, and a wonder to see.
Ross Bloor — Google review
One of the biggest city of the Mayan this place is one of the best historical landmarks to see in Mexico. There is a special sound you can hear from the pyramid if you clap your hand standing at the bottom. It’s very mystical and wonderful to experience the culture of the ancient Mayans.
Yaseen Ali — Google review
Wow, what a place. Beautiful and had a great tour. Beware a lot of sellers on site - you need to haggle. However they are pretty respectful if your not interested. Seemed a bit at odds given the religious heritage.
Paul Smith — Google review
Great place with rich history. These ruins are absolutely amazing to visit. We did this in a tour with a separate company that had guides walking us through each of the areas. If you can, try to bring pesos in cash for the countless vendors selling items. They accept some visa cards as well but there's a fee. Highly recommend visiting!
Abe G — Google review
Fantastic site with many temples to view; spread over a few acre site which includes a cenote. Expect to spend a few hours here but be aware there are many stall holders located on site although by and large they are very friendly and not pushy.
Len Elkington — Google review
I had read so many blogs before visiting and was so hyped to see one of the seven wonders of the world, but I guess I was disappointed because of the hype I created. It is a good experience to see some ancient civilization history, and all of the ruins is inside the same compound which is within convenient walking distance.
Nikita Jhunjhunwala — Google review
Absolutely stunning! A fantastic area surrounding a famous archaeological location. You must visit here when in Mexico and make sure you go with a local guide who can tell you the history of the area and make sure you do not miss any of the stunning features. Also keep an eye out for the iguanas that have made the area their home.
Matthew Harwood — Google review
Truly amazing place.
You should definitely go, but prepare yourself for many insta-posers and a lot of touristy selling stuff.
If you are able to turn off the noise created by people, and tune in into the history and sound of birds, it will be a very enjoyable experience.
Ensure that you read about it before you go, so that you can appreciate it as it deserves.
Olivera Novaković — Google review
This was an incredible experience, hard to describe the scope and scale. The ruins have been restored but there are incredible original pieces and especially the artwork carved into stone and statues were extremely detailed and finely wrought. Make sure to bring water we went in March and it was 90 with humidity. The only drawback was the vendors to many people selling trinkets took away from the authenticity of the experience.
Phillip Wilson — Google review
rich history and beautiful site. for sure worth visiting if you're around the area. Tickets for Mexicans are free. Try getting a tour guide from the entrance to explain the parts.
Babak Barghi — Google review
These were the most amazing people we took this tour through carnival my goodness it was so awesome the only problem we had was the drive was so long but the tour guides were amazing they made you feel at home...
Do not get caught up with the people selling in the market we were almost left because of that.
The Voice of Reason — Google review
The experience was amazing, the place is beautiful and so big, wear some comfy snickers for your visit, don’t forget to bring your own bottle of water, inside you can buy something to drink but is too expensive. Bring a hat and sunscreen as is too sunny.
I loved the place but I couldn’t enjoy 100% as there are too many sellers on the side of the road and inside the archaeological zone as well.
Luc?a De Le?n — Google review
Stunning, simply breathtaking. You get the sense of history and can literally see the images of the past before your eyes. A true world wonder.
Shimurasaki — Google review
If I could give 10 stars I would. The ruins are breathtaking! We went as a self guided group and got tickets pretty quickly despite the line up.
Jessica Lau — Google review
Great experience.. Beautiful Place with lots of history. I recommend to get a guide while you visiting. There are lot to learn about this place and alot to explore. Really wonders by the structure and there mathematical precision while building this. Try the Echo sound and you will be amazed by the results. Only negative is the local vendors, they will loot your money if you don't play smart. Also while packing keep an eye. They will outsmart you sometimes and won't pack the full items you bought. Must carry a bottle of water and an umbrella if you are visiting on day. It's really hot and there is only one shop selling water and it's quite expensive. Rest everything is awesome. A true and genuine Mayan Pyramid..
Ragesh P Nair — Google review
Absolutely amazing place! I have to knock off a star because, it is considered an archeological site, yet there are market vendors EVERYWHERE harassing you while you try to enjoy the magic of the site. Not to mention, another disappointment is there is garbage (on the ground) to be found which is very disrespectful to the Mayans as it is a sacred place. Despite this, I do recommend going as it's a beautiful site.
Amanda K — Google review
A must see when visiting Mexico, such a beautiful place full of history. You find all kind of souvenirs and yummy food. Super recommended!!
Grace Quijano — Google review
One of the new wonders of the world! Hire a tour guide even if it is expensive it is worth it. Otherwise, you will miss out on some fascinating insights about the architecture and history of this marvel. It is truly a wonder. The Mayan history and their detailing left in each of the ruins leaves you in awe. We spent 3 hours, and even though it was hot, the stories made us spend a lot of time here.
Aiswarya P — Google review
Fascinating architecture.
Budget 2 to 4 hours inclusive of time for parking & the ticket window if arriving at the 08:00 open.
Bring at least 250 pesos in cash for the on-site parking & souvenirs from the many vendors sprawled throughout the site. Do not stop for the unaffiliated guide/parking sellers on the way in — instead drive directly up to the on-site parking toll gate right next to the entrance facility.
Jonathan Yam — Google review
It’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World. You don’t need a tour guide for this. Each building has a placard with the historical information(in English and Spanish). They have drinks and food inside. You can also buy souvenirs inside you will have plenty of choices. It’s a lot bigger in person and definitely lots of walking.
Giovanni — Google review
Very cool sight to see! Highly recommend the action tour guide app on the App Store as it is cheap and gps based. Highly recommend at least a tour guide because there is so much more to see besides for the main attraction!
In other words:
Highly Recommend!!!
Ben Siefert — Google review
Must see if you are in the Maya Riviera area. I went twice - once as an excursion booked at the resort and this year just on our own. If you are driving there, parking is $80 MEX, have water with you as it’s very hot (went in March), we got the ‘Skip the line’ tickets and it moved fast ($70 USD per person). Lots of vendors if you are looking for souvenirs. Lots of walking so wear comfortable shoes. It takes about 2-3 hours to visit and if it’s your first time, might be worth getting a guide.
Alina G — Google review
We were there with about 20,000 other people on the 21 of march for the equinox and let me tell you the tour guide we had was the best. He had a lot of information to share and helped us get around with ease.
The property is massive and very impressive
Daniel a — Google review
It is definitely place you have to visit. Be aware that it can get very sunny and there are no many shadow spots, so bring the umbrella or a hat, otherwise you will not be able to withstand the heat.
MrGrzechM — Google review
This was by far my favorite place to visit while on vacation here in Mexico. The rich history and architecture was really fascinating! There’s so much to take in here, I loved it! All the vendors can be overwhelming at times but it’s also understanding. Great visit! FYI you cannot take a portable speaker in and you have to pay to take in your GoPro camera.
Thomas Coleman — Google review
Very long day on a tour bus to get here, but it's worth it. The site was amazing. However, try to make sure that your tour bus has adequate seating. Ours was very uncomfortable.
Shannon Dorough — Google review
Amazing ruins, its definitely a must see. Lots of history that's explained by the tour guides. There's a lot of tourists but the entire complex is huge so it doesn't feel too crowded. Be prepared for a long day if traveling from Cancun, the drive is about 3 hours to the ruins and the tour (including swimming in the cenotes) takes about 3 hours. I would suggest that you bring food, water, sunscreen and a hat or an umbrella (the sun is pretty brutal). Be prepared to be approached over and over again and to negotiate if you want to buy something there.
Kavita Ram — Google review
Beautiful sight and so much to see. Definitely recommend doing a guided tour and having someone walk you around to start and give you some background on this amazing site. Great place to buy gifts for friends and family. The pyramid is so impressive and beautiful. I spent about two hours here and felt like that was more than enough to walk around the entire place and go back to anymore buildings or sites that I wanted to see again. Very accessible and easy to move around the entire place. You’ll be walking around on easy level ground the entire time.
The Ik Kil cenote, located a couple of hours away from Cancun, is known for its picturesque scenery surrounded by lush green cliffs and delicate vines. This natural wonder provides an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters managed well by the local hotel. Despite being relatively less crowded, it is advisable to visit early considering its modest entry fee per person of 100 pesos or more.
Here's my advice for this cenote. Forget about taking pictures or videos for a few minutes and just enjoy jumping into the water! There will always be time to record your jump or pose for photos. Even if there are many people in the cenote, you will be able to have an enjoyable time. For those participating in diving/jumping/swimming, life vests (and a shower) are necessary - for an extra charge. They have lockers too if needed but better to just keep your stuff in the car as it's a short walk. There is a restaurant and a vendor selling ice cream bars/sandwiches on the premises. Water is on the colder side but not colder than the shower you will have just taken! Although you will be wearing a life vest, I recommend to jump only if you are comfortable swimming as the cenote is deep (150 ft). There is staff present at the site.
Sim M — Google review
<10mins from Chichen Itza, so a must do.
I bought my tickets online. They have mandatory life vests, locker, and changing rooms. We brought towels from our hotel.
Plenty of parking spaces. There is a cafe but we didnt eat there.
Very unique cenote. There are fishes in the water. So bring the go pro. We took a video of a jump and didnt realize until we got back and saw the fishes in our underwater shots.
The temperature of the shower is colder than the water in the cenote. It was fresh but not super cold.
Sam Ang — Google review
It’s a nice pool but be aware of the crowds. When a big group of people coming, some of them really would like to spend 20 minutes in taking pics, and you need to wait them before jumping into the pool.
Haoge Xu — Google review
What a beautiful scenery and crystal clear water.
You can dive in or just watch this spectacular view.
Buy tickets online to save time and safety jacket is mandatory and available on site.
Raj P — Google review
Absolutely stunning great experience and a definite place to visit . Two hours away from Cancun . But absolutely beautiful.
baksho bahia — Google review
Beautiful cenote, unfortunately spoilt by it’s own success, as the crowds descend on the site every day. We were fortunate enough to stay overnight in one of their lovely huts. This allowed us access to the cenote before and after hours. Swimming in the cenote at night is a truly magical experience, especially as there will probably be no one else there. The huts are very comfortable and clean, with great a/c and friendly staff. It’s also close to Chichen Itza for an early start to beat the crowds there!
Boomer?s Big Break — Google review
Absolutely stunning!!! Yea there's a bit of a crowd- but it's a huge cenote with plenty of room to explore and even dive in! You'll have to shower before entering and then go down stairs so bring reliable water shoes and don't bring anything you don't want to lose!
Priscilla Arballo — Google review
beautiful cenote and well managed. not the cheapest cenote around but worth it. didn’t get any advance tickets, just drove in, parked and bought tickets early in the morning. very little people in the morning. water is a little cold in jan but no problem getting used to it. it’s as beautiful as pictures shows. big pool and a lot of people can swim in it at once without feeling crowded. like that you can jump off a platform! it’s fun. can be a tad painful when u hit the water though. genially pasir out with your trip to chichen itza.
Robert Chew — Google review
It’s so beautiful. Who am I to review natures creation anyways. It was magical to walk in there and the hotel has managed the censored very well. There was little crowd but we were very early. We didn’t swim etc and the fee per person was 100 plus pesos
bindu gopinath — Google review
Absolutely stunning and breathtaking! The cenote is beautiful and refreshing, you would be able to spend couple hours there easy! But go before 11am (open at 9am) to avoid the crowd, as most tour groups will start arriving after.
Cenote Ik Kil is privately owned, therefore you’d be able find restaurants and accommodations if needed. Ticket includes life jacket (compulsory for all swimmers) and a locker.
L — Google review
Insanely busy , I would advice to choose another one , definitely.
It is the closest from Chitchen Itza.
Good to cool down as this is very hot !
Not sure about the water quality as this is not running water and everybody does their Pxx inside 😅
Expensive in my opinion 180 pesos .
You can easily spend 1.5 hours there and even jump from 4 meters
Ric Abh — Google review
Nice and friendly staff. Good organized and clean place. Great location to refresh after a long visit at Chichen Itza.
We arrived at 11am and spend here about 2.5 hours here in the Cenote. At this time there were less visitors but in the afternoon the amount of guests were increasing.
Axel Steer — Google review
An absolutely amazing and beautiful experience! Very well organized. The lockers were plenty large enough, the bathrooms were clean. And the shower was a refreshing way to cool off. Definitely make sure you bring some water shoes as the stairs going down are wet and slippery. The water was so amazing. The entire expience was amazing.
Erica Mars — Google review
One of the best experiences I have had in my 55 visited countries. It’s 200 pesos per person, CASH only. Free parking. They don’t rush you with anything. Can jump from higher to the water. Just loved every minute there.
Gerli Pommer — Google review
WOW. Such a beautiful place. I visited this cenote on an organized tour.
When visiting Mexico, checking out a cenote is a must.
Ben Arvi — Google review
Nice place to visit.
You can book the tickets in advance (online), no waiting time.
It's a good place to dive if you are a good swimmer, even otherwise, there are life jackets, which is included in the package.
Have fun!
Recommended : Yes for Adults, especially young
Sinoy Xavier — Google review
We visited Ik Kil Cenote and it was amazing! This place is like a hidden gem where you can swim in beautiful clear water surrounded by nature. Everything here is so well organized, way better than some other cenotes I've been to.
One of the coolest things about Ik Kil Cenote is that you can jump into the water from a high platform. It's so thrilling and fun! The first time I looked down, I was a bit scared, but after jumping, I wanted to do it again and again. It's definitely a highlight and makes the whole visit even more exciting.
What's really convenient is that there's a restaurant and bar right on the territory. This means you can grab something to eat or drink either before diving into the cenote or after you've had your fill of swimming. It's perfect for chilling and just enjoying the day.
They've also got showers, changing rooms, and lockers, which is super handy. You can change into your swimsuit, lock up your stuff, and not worry about anything while you're having fun in the water. Plus, they provide life jackets, which is great for anyone who's not a strong swimmer or just wants to feel a bit safer.
The cenote itself is stunning. The water is so clear and blue, and being surrounded by the natural rock walls with plants hanging down is just breathtaking. It feels like you're in another world.
Overall, my visit to Ik Kil Cenote was a 5-star experience. It's not just about the swimming; it's the whole package - the thrill of the jump, the convenience of the facilities, and the beauty of nature all around. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and memorable adventure. Can't wait to go back!
Filipp Nesterov — Google review
This is a very cool place to visit, and swim within it's waters. Well worth making the trip.
Chris Knight — Google review
Super gorgeous cenote!
Easy to get to, even with a tour/ driver. It’s really easy for them to park and wait for you.
Entrance can be paid in cash or card. You can pay just for entrance or entrance with food.
There are lockers where you can leave your things, payment is included in your entrance.
This is an indoor/ outdoor cenote. If you’re looking to take pictures just know it’s a bit darker inside.
Life jackets are mandatory.
We spent about an hour and a half here before heading to Valladolid.
This museum is packed with colorful Mexican folk art collected by Dorianne and John Venators. The private collection includes pieces dating back to the 16th century, and is interesting in that objects are displayed in an actual private house, instead of being displayed in glass cases. With your donation, the museum has the opportunity to benefit local communities through a variety of programs.
Great experience! They do tours at 10am so be there on time. I think there might be more tours but I’m not sure how exactly it works. The tour lasts about 1 hour and is walking around somebody’s house with loads and loads of Mexican art and souvenirs. It really is worth it!
Agata Majka — Google review
Amazing unique art gallery / museum / home.
We had such an interesting tour by Sergio. The house is beautiful and the art throughout every room is stunning. Hearing about the art, the house, and the owners along the way was great too.
Really recommend it. They have guided tours most days at 10:00 11:30 13:00 14:00 and 15:00. Just ring the bell and they'll let you in.
Tam Finlay — Google review
It’s a private house with guided tours multiple times per day. There’s a 100pesos donation for I don’t remember exactly which cause. You have to arrive on time for the tour, no need for reservations. We went to the 2PM one there’s some in AM and later 3PM as well.
The guide was very informative and answered all our “non house related” questions. It was even better than expected.
Fei C — Google review
Whether you enjoy art or not, this is a great experience to learn not only the art history of the Yucatán and nearby regions but also general history of these areas all while getting to walk around a spectacular home! Really love the fact that all donations go to local charities in the community as well. A must visit! They have a few tours that run throughout the day and take about an hour to complete.
Phoenix Wilkins — Google review
A personal elaborate art collection in the elaborate personal house opposite the main square. It is very interesting even though I am no culture vulture. There are personal tours normally 10 am, 11.30, etc, in English and Spanish. The 100 peso charge is given to the local community. Ring the bell, and they will confirm the next time. As is next to the main square and church, there is plenty to see and do(drinks,snacks) if there is a slight delay
Fred Flintstone — Google review
Miguel gave us an amazing tour of this spectacular house full of Mexican folk art. We arrived 2 minutes before 10am and joined a group that was already waiting in the lobby. He was a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide. He walked us through most of the rooms in the house and explained the history behind several different pieces of art and the different themes of each room. Visiting the Casa de los Venados was a last minute decision, but it turned out to be one of the absolute highlights of our trip!
Samuel Engelen — Google review
Really enjoyed visiting this amazing private house and museum. We had a very good tour, informative and friendly. The guide was a voluntary contribution which is to raise funds for local charities!
Lucie Gledhill — Google review
This really is amazing. Not only b/c of the folk art, but due to that this is a private house where the owner, Doug, just opens up his home for tourists to flood through and touch his stuff. He even comes out to greet most tours. The suggested donation all goes to local charities and not to the owner or guides. I gave a tip to our guide and my wife noticed that he went to the charities jar and put it into their instead of his pocket. This tells me that the owner really takes care of his tour guide staff.
Brandon Smith — Google review
An amazing opportunity to view a private residence in the middle of the city with a ton of Mexican art. Best of all, the donations you give at the end of 100% to local charities! The tour guide Miguel was phenomenal! We got there right at 10am and the tour started within 5 minutes after! I highly recommend you visit here! It's well worth it, and they are doing great things for the local community.
Zachary Smith — Google review
Imagine a place full of beautiful Mexican arts, crafts, sculptures, paintings where all donations given by clientele go entirely to local causes and those in need.
Whilst the website offers guided tours at 10 am, there are actually about 4 a day, giving many more people the opportunity to view these treasures.
By the way, the tour by our guide David was interesting and entertaining.
Highly recommended.
Liz Hawksbee — Google review
So cool! Very neat collection of art from two American collectors who resettled in Mexico. The home is amazing, the house dog is adorable. Very fortunate to see John "Deer" and his wife's home. Amazing piñatas, costumes, and hand painted furniture, and a super cool bit of history on the significance of skulls in Mexican art. We also learned the meaning of "Yucatan" in Mayan! Highly recommended.
Naomi Goff — Google review
If you have an appreciation for art, architecture and capturing stories visit this museum. The guided tours are from 10:00 11:30 13:00 14:00 and 15:00. Just ring the bell during this time or wait outside until this time. They will open the door and let you inside. Once inside you'll be given a 45-50 min tour about how an American couple purchased their retirement home and rebuilt the house over the course of several 10 years to what it is today. Their story is inspirational and their art collection is of artists all around Mexico over the course of their lives. 100p is a suggested donation and it goes directly to many local charities in the area.
Bobbi M — Google review
Highly recommend. Great collection of contemporary folk art from across Mexico. Beautifully restored hacienda. Guide, Sergio, was brilliant - super knowledgeable about the collection and multilingual. $100 recommended donation well worth it. They offer tours x5/day at 10am, 11.30am, 1pm, 3pm and 4pm(?). Ignore what it says on the website, you just turn up and ring the doorbell ahead of whichever time slot.
Ruby Manson — Google review
Not to miss in Valladolid! More Mexican folk art than you would see in a museum, this is a private house right in the centre. Donations of $100 mxn support local charities for the disadvantaged. David us an excellent guide & if you’re lucky the owner might be there to explain further. Recommended
Jane Jagger — Google review
wonderful house. It's worth coming to see. Sergio is a great guide. We were pleasantly surprised by how he tried trito connect with the visitors and learn a few words of our language.
Tanja — Google review
DO NOT MISS THIS PLACE. "Modern Art" may not be your thing, but you do not want to miss this. The "museum" is a private home that is open for public tours a few times a day. We went to the 1 pm tour. There was another planned for 3 pm. Not sure what other times are scheduled. It was a little confusing because you walk up and ring the doorbell if no one is at the door, but the building is well-marked. If you ring the doorbell and it isn't a tour time, a person will answer and tell you the time for the next tour.
On to the tour itself: the owners of the house made it their lives' mission to collect handcrafted Mexican folk art. When they moved to Valladolid in retirement, they bought an old colonial-era building and renovated it to modern standards. It's a great tour for both the art and the architecture. Our tour guide was a quadrilingual professional who seemed to know about everything in the house. He's fun and gives a lot of valuable information about the culture and the city while talking about the art. He explained the treatment of skeletons in Mexican art and the treatment of death in modern Mayan religious philosophy, both of which helped us understand the art better. The building is a beautiful hacienda and the art will give you insight into the culture around you.
There's a donation box at the end. Proceeds go to a local charity. Tips can be handed directly to the guide at the end.
Megan Elder-Taylor — Google review
FANTASTIC find in Valladolid! I highly recommend a visit❤️ This is my third trip to Valladolid, and I finally made it to this beautiful home today- so worth the wait. This is a private residence chock full of amazing Mexican folk art, with guided tours for the public which start each day at 10am, 11:30am, and then a couple of afternoon times, too. It's an optional $100 pesos donation at the end, money which goes to various charities in the city. Be sure to tip your tour guide, too😁👍
Julia L. — Google review
It's really worth spending some time to visit this private house/museum. The guide is very passionate about the collection and will answer all your questions. The tour lasts about one hour and it is just with a really small group so it is very enjoyable.
lisa borrelli — Google review
Defintelly pay a visit to this house. The first tour starts at 10.00am and the second tour is at 11.30am. You can just ring the doorbell a few minutes before the tour starts and someone will open the door. The tour is very nice and especially the tour guide knows a lot and is very friendly.
Gertjan De Regt — Google review
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5.0
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Calle 40 Local 204 X 41, Centro, 97780 Valladolid, Yuc., Mexico
Explore the ruins of a traditional Mayan village from the 8th century at Zona Arqueológica de Ek Balam, complete with a temple and pyramid. For an overnight trip, consider staying in nearby Valladolid where there are good lodging options. Alternatively, take a refreshing swim in one of the nearby cenotes. To avoid crowds, visit Ek Balam early in the morning when it opens. The site is relatively small compared to other ruins but still worth exploring.
Beautiful Ek Balam we loved it. We recommend you to visit very early in the morning when they open. We found a few tourist maybe we were 6 in total for a long while it was amazing. From 11am tour buses from Cancun arrived and gets crowded but we enjoyed almost 2 hours by ourselves. Then we went to the cenote and it was also an amazing experience ❤️
Cristina Sol? — Google review
Ek Balam is the perfect place to visit after Chichen Itzá. It's quieter, more laid back, not as commercialized & you get to touch, feel, explore & truly experience the wonders of the Mayan people ❣️ Make sure you grab a local Mayan guide at the door, (it helps the local economy & their history is amazing 😍), so you can get the full story of Ek Balam & how it ties in with Chichen Itzá. These structures are unbelievably preserved & centuries old. Going inside the rooms & feeling the ancient energy of these people is almost overwhelming. The things the Mayan people accomplished without current technology is mind boggling. Climbing the pyramid is a must ❣️ After roaming around & checking out the entire site PLEASE go out to the parking lot & check out the little "cafe" in the far corner & enjoy an ice cold drink, fresh cooked, homemade Mayan cuisine & wonderful conversation with the chef❣️ A bit of knowledge of the Spanish language makes this a blast. Spanglish is more of a 2nd language to most of the Mayan people I was blessed to encounter than Spanish, you WILL learn some Mayan because they refuse to give up their native language & traditions - YEAH them❣️ I spent a wonderful hour enjoying the shade, soft cool breeze, cold water, great food & fantastic conversation. Then you must go back in & experience the cenote 💕 There's a zip line that goes all the way above the cenote, another 1 that is inside so you can drop off into the water, there's a couple of platforms to dive off into the water & a couple of ropes to swing into the water. All those stairs & walkways are in excellent condition with railings. Please know cenotes are SACRED so you MUST shower off prior to enjoying them, sweat is okay, but not man-made products ☺️. It's a mile walk to the cenote, they offer bicycles as part of the entrance fee & since I'm older they drove me down for a very small fee. Cenotes are magical for me & this 1 didn't disappoint. I will go back & experience the entirety of this magical place again, God willing. I believe once is enough of climbing the pyramid though 🥰
Angela James — Google review
An absolute must-see. One of the very few Maya temples you can actually climb - and although it is quite a steep climb (especially with young kids), the view is very much worth it. Not too crowded (early morning) and beautiful scenery.
Stefan Boom — Google review
It was definitely worth to visit. We had a bad guide, but she was from the tour agency not a local guide from Ek balam.
It's an old Mayan pyramid and it's incredible that it was built at this time without machines. And I believe I've heard that it's the only pyramid were it's possible to go up.
Stephie “TravelAndCuisine” — Google review
This was my favorite pyramid to see because you could climb on and explore them. There is so much to see, we didn’t get a guide but it would have been informative if we had. It wasn’t as crowded as Chichén Itzá and definitely worth the drive.
Amy Minor — Google review
Amazing place to visit original Mayan buildings, the vibe transports you to the ancient times, you're free to climb almost all the pyramids (be respectful when you do that) and you can take a good long walk across all the citadel ruins. As this is not so popular as other places you can see some buildings that are still covered by trees and vegetation.
The view from the top of the highest pyramid is amazing.
There are 2 fees to visit the place (local fee and federal fee) and the cost will change depending if you're Mexican, student, teacher or foreigner.
If you want to know the story of the place I suggest you to check in the internet because hiring a tourist guide at the entrance can be expensive. You can also bargain the initial price, they can reduce the cost from $200-$400 pesos.
Rodrigo Luna — Google review
We were here around 10 AM, it was still hot to climb the ruin. The entrance was 495$ pp, we spend here max. 1.5h If you want to climb, it is worth a visit, otherwise I would not recommend it. In the end it is ‘just stones’.
Thaomy — Google review
Very big area, nice nature looking like a jungle...super green.
The buildings are in a very good condition, restored. You are allowed to climb on the stairs which is a huge plus.
Definitely very interesting to visit.
I would recommend coming early in the morning as the sun becomes too strong later.
In my opinion it's just very expensive for the experience. But I would recommend stopping there for half a day.
Goran ?upari?-Smol?i? — Google review
We had such a great time touring these old Myan ruins. What a great experience, and the tour guide was very knowledgeable. We will not be back in the future because there's not a vast amount to see however, it's a great one time event and worth the cost.
Danielle K — Google review
Incredible reliefs atop the tallest of its pyramids. Astonishing views. Amazing to walk through the vegetation and among the ruins as if you were an explorer yourself.
Ioana Navarrete — Google review
Fantastic Mayan Ruins with some well preserved hieroglyphs and statues. We had a super guide. The view from the palace is great. Try to get there early to beat the heat and the crowds.
Kai Vorpahl — Google review
Amazing, our guide was able to share details we won't forget. The size and scale is breathtaking. The view from the top is lovely, though it was quite windy!
The steps are large and uneven, though the trek to the top is worth it to see the preserved, original artwork.
Margaret Kidwell — Google review
What an amazing area, people and past life. The views atop Ek Balam temple are stunning. We got here early and pretty much had the place to ourselves. Follow the paths and directives to keep this area available and open for our enjoyment and reflection.
Peter Marquardt — Google review
Went to Mexico for family vacation and stayed in Akumal. Beautiful there and very friendly people.
We made a trip to see the Ek Balam Pyramid. So amazing. It is just being uncovered and restored. Our guide was very informative and learned a lot about the Mayan people.
It’s a must see…amazing.
Joey Awalt — Google review
Beautiful archeological Mayan site immerged in the Yucatan rainforest. I found it beautiful even with pouring rain. It was possible to climb up the structures. If you do it in the rain, be careful because it will be very slippery. Tickets were 500MEX at the time of the review and it wasn't possible to pay by credit card, only cash.
Gian — Google review
Good experience. Was satisfying climbing pyramids. Parking was simple. You do have to pay extra to visit cenote but it is worth it if you have never been to one. Cenote does have a zip line which you also have to pay for. Life jackets included. And there is a rope you can swing off for no extra cost. Experience is worth the cost if you have never done these things before.
The Ponderosa Running Springs — Google review
Love that you can actually walk the stairs on these ruins. Beautiful place with excellent history. In Valladolid there is a taxi/collectivo service that will run as soon as they have 4 passengers that can take you there. It was 70 pesos per person each way. Sitio Taxis Ek Balam.
Kristiana Spehr — Google review
The structures are absolutely massive, and it's really cool to see the restoration progress. We went with a tour group and it was really nice to get a conversational history of the site. Tickets won't break the bank either.
Ben Adickes — Google review
We stayed south of Akumal for a quiet beach vacation and figured we would go to the ruins at Tulum. What a nightmare of people. Too many tourists, too many people calling to sell you something and tiny parking spots. We turned around and left the mess that Tulum is. The next day we headed to Ek Balam based on other reviews. It was a pleasant drive and we got there when they opened. We paid 100 pesos to the people by the orange cones very close to the parking lot. Luckily, the other group of people trying to extract pesos from you weren't up when we drove by. They were stationed in a spot closer to where you turn off the main road.
There were very few people there and it was an amazing experience to casually walk around the ruins. We also were able to climb up the steps to the top! We did not pay for a guide but in retrospect wish we had.
We spent about 90 minutes there and then drove to the cenote right there. There were four other people there and it was absolutely wonderful. If you don't like crowds or vendors pressuring you to buy something every five feet skip Tulum and visit Ek Balam. On the way back we stopped in Valladolid at IX CAT IK which serves traditional Mayan dishes. Not to be missed!
rob dudenhoefer — Google review
A hidden gem in Mexico. A must visit for anyone in the area. This working archaeological site is visited by very few people and at times you can have the place to yourself. There is stunning original carvings and it truly does feel like you are exploring a newly discovered site in the middle of the jungle.
Matthew Harwood — Google review
Much smaller than expected. Nicely maintained site. Not as many peddlers of merchandise at this location. Can walk up the pyramid steps for an awesome view. Worth the trek from Cancun as there are local cenotes around this site worth exploring.
Cost: 95 pesos each for entry- cash only. ~450 pesos each for “tax” -card or cash. Have to pay at 2 separate booths.
Michael Li — Google review
Stunning location of ruins. Beautiful carvings and these are ruins you can climb. There are hidden state and federal tax fees not listed on the websites you need to pay in addition to the ticket price. It is a really pretty place and not as touristy as Tulum or Chichen Itza. We really had the place to ourselves. Lots of great views from the tops of the buildings.
Emily Eliason — Google review
Ek Balam is a Mayan archeological site dating back to AD 850. The tour guide provided awesome insights into the culture, life, and sophistication of the Mayan people before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. Later, a swim in one of the many cenotes (underground water caverns) in the area provided welcome relief from the 101 F temps! The tour is well worth your time.
JPN — Google review
Beautiful site with unparalleled access to amazing ruins. Easy drive on the toll road 180D from Cancun. The couple of things to be aware of: toll is nearly 400 pesos each way and only take cash, there were two interesting stops along the way as you near Ek Balam- one as you turn off the main road where folks flag you down but really are selling you tours. The second is a spot they have blocked the road with cones and charge you 100 pesos for parking. Since everything I read said it was free parking, it felt like a scam - but what are you gunna do?
Then the entry fee is two parts, one for the state government and one for the federal. Paid separately and also cash only. About 400 pesos each adult. Tickets are also taken in two parts after the small retail section.
Small snacks but nothing major by way of food.
Worth the visit for sure. Small crowds and beautiful site.
Weston Clark — Google review
This place was amazing! I highly recommend a guide. Marcelo was our guide and he was fantastic. His first language was Mayan but he did our tour in English. He was full of knowledge of the site as he has clearly done years of research. The structures are amazing with the jaguar tomb as a crown jewel. There is a fair amount of shade in the park so if it gets too hot you can cool down in the shade, then visit the cenote next door! Be careful on the steep steps!!
Gregory L. — Google review
So worth the visit! Much better than Cobá or Tulúm in my opinion. One of the last Maya ruins that you can climb the pyramid. We had William Antonio Chan Chan as our guide and it was worth the $800 pesos that we paid for him.
Evan Cindrich — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous site! Be careful if you're trying to bundle your trip with a cenote. Make sure you actually purchase at the site itself before the entry because they are a reseller and will overcharge.
VI VI VI — Google review
Ek Balam is a well kept secret of the Yucatan Peninsula. These Mayan Ruins are great to visit and you can still climb the pyramids at the Archaeological Site.
They are about 1.5 hour away from Playa Del Carmen and in a different time zone.
Entry is quite expensive compared to other ruins and you have to pay a tourist tax.
Frederic Hugues — Google review
The site is worth visiting. Unfortunately it is usually overlooked by tourists who go to chichen itza because it is the most well-known in this area, but I think ek balam should be on everyone's list when going to Yucatán. It's is very quiet, the site is beautiful, you can take a guide on site if you want, but it is well explained in the signs along the way.
You can also climb on top of the pyramid and have a beautiful view. I also really enjoyed the sculpture of the jaguar on the main pyramid. It was so well preserved and marvellous.
Anais Grillet — Google review
4.7
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4.5
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97743 Ekbalam, Yuc., Mexico
I'll never travel to Playa del Carmen without this trip planner again
The Zona Arqueológica de Coba offers visitors the opportunity to explore the ancient Mayan city of Cobá, with its well-preserved structures and rich history. One of the highlights is climbing Nohoch Mul, the highest pyramid in the area. Guided tours provide insights into the culture, sacrificial offerings, and historical significance of the site's symbols and natural resources.
Interesting ruins in the jungle. You can rent a bike but it's possible to do it on foot, whole route is no more than 5-6 km. Unfortunately the big pyramid is closed for climbing die to covid restrictions.
Tomek Bogda?ski — Google review
Lovely ruins, it was worth to come I definitely recommend if you’re near by is worth to visit.
We were amazed with the kindness of the guy that took us on the bike, he taught us some words in Mayan and the history of the ruins.
Big ruins there’s plenty of space to go around.
Catarina Alves — Google review
Well this is a very cool place to go visit. The tour we were with had a guide that was connected to the folks there.
Nevertheless was guide was pretty thorough about showing the archaeological site and the history and the significance of the different symbols and obsidian and some of the other natural resources in the area.
Be careful about engaging in any ceremony because it's likely to lead to a consultation where it may cost you a thousand or more dollars upon their recommendation. However just a note that it is just a recommendation you don't have to take the consultation and before you get a full consultation they give you an estimate and you can walk away if you like or go through with it.
DavidC EG — Google review
We regret very much not getting a guide as the places we got to see where fabulous, we did not have the knowledge that of what the are besides the very few information tablets around the area. We were able to get little information from the gentleman that rode us all around the ruins which was very convenient as the ancient city cover a good area. Get a tour guide!
Zacarias Michilinsky — Google review
Very nice place. It's nice that it's almost entirely in the shade, but it's still a walk of about 3-4 km. In this heat, I recommend renting a bike. They offer them for about 150-200 pesos. We didn't and we regretted it. It was possible to miss it, but in that heat it was possible to take it.
Zuzana Vitochova — Google review
Went there June 2023. These ruins are beautiful and literally in the middle of the jungle!!! Many options to view it…you can walk it bout 40min, bike or have a 2 seater umbrella bike with an onsite peddler…only $10 to view….
Michelle Harris — Google review
Definitely worth visiting and not thronged with crowds of people like Chichén Itzá. Not a difficult place to drive to if you are self driving around Mexico. Worth getting a guide and taking the bicycle taxis which will shuttle you around the extensive archeological site
Mathew Taylor — Google review
Really neat place to visit and wasn't too crowded. You can't climb the big tower steps but there are some smaller ones you can get on. This place was very cheap to get in and I would recommend renting a bike. It's not too far to walk but the biking was a fun experience. Bike rental was also cheap. Definitely worth visiting.
Benjamin Burk — Google review
Beautiful place full of history. There are so much details that you could easily spend at least 5 hours to inspect most of the site. You wouldn't have check everything out. One of the most impressive archeological site in the area. Luckily it was not too crowded when we were there in the afternoon.
Also no need to go from the first pyramids to the other with a bike. They will convince you that it is far away but if you are healthy and can walk 20-30 minutes you won't need it.
If you are driving there, it is pretty easy from Valladolid, the road is in great condition and you do not even need a GPS, everything is well indicated. Parking was 80 pesos.
Rob — Google review
Mayan culture is very interesting. Coba has some very old temple's, walls and other buildings. I would recommend walking to the larger pyramid and taking the tricycle back- don't forget to tip your cyclist!
Mike Coe — Google review
Lucky me - I visited the spot back in 2019 when climbing the pyramids was still allowed (meanwhile it‘s prohibited). Very impressive archeological site on extended grounds in the middle of the jungle. You can easily get around by rental bike or walk. Make sure to come as early in the morning as you can - the later the more people.
ed da — Google review
One of the oldest Mayans settlements still in existence and has the tallest pyramid in Latin America. Nohoch Mul sits way above the trees and given how flat Tulum is you can really see from miles making it an excellent guard post and temple for the ancients. In 2021, and earlier, it was possible to actually physically climb up this temple but now you can just view it, which was a bit disappointing. We visited the site with a tour so we did not pay the entry fee. It was part of our tour ticket. There is an area in the front that sells gifts, water, and food right near the large parking lot. At the entrance you can rent bikes or a two person rickshaw driven by a Mayan local, which is free, but we tipped them a lot for all of their hard work. The site is very large and spread out, so it really was nice to have wheels to get around otherwise it will be quite a walk.
This site is much older than Chichen Itza and was most likely abandoned due to infighting, deforestation, and drought. You can see a few small scale Mayan ball court here, but obviously the largest version is over in Chichen Itza. It’s really humbling to see how great of engineers and architects the ancient Mayans were and being able to physically walk on site is truly a memorable experience. I would definitely recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and water. We did not deal with any insects during our visit, but it was about 95° out in Fahrenheit so it was extremely toasty given the humidity.
Overall, this is a must visit site when in Tulum, especially if you have any interest in Mayan history. This was the oldest and first Mayan settlement, so it’s very important to see where a civilization started to really understand it. I would recommend to anyone and feel that it is a great place to visit for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Zan Lee — Google review
Really nice shady place to visit and walk. We drive here from Tulúm, which was an easy drive. We paid for parking and then the tickets to enter required two payments. Kind of confusing but expected having read other reviews. We did not hire a guide or a bicycle. We walked to all the ruins and spent about 2 hours exploring the site. So impressive. I enjoyed being out in nature.
Andria Martin — Google review
Nice ruins that are almost entirely hidden in the forest. During our visit there were minimal people, it was possible to enjoy some places almost alone. As always there is a separate charge for parking, entrance and government fee. The main pyramid is the biggest attraction, but Grupo Macanxoc is also worth a visit for the inscribed stones.
It is possible to rent bicycles, but we did without them - it takes about 6.5 km to visit all the sites and thus takes two to three hours. There is no place to buy water in the area itself, so have plenty of it with you.
Jakub Chramosta — Google review
I paid for the bike taxi service. It was a good price, but honestly, even as a pregnant woman with asthma who had forgotten my inhaler, even I could have ridden a bike by myself the whole way as it was completely flat. I would recommend just renting their bikes, which is also a very good price. The ruins were really cool to see. It includes huts and stone buildings. There was even a tunnel and a court that was used to play ball games. One important thing is that if you rent something from them, you can only pay with cash and not with a card. There is a public restroom right outside that you need to use before you pay to enter or after you leave.
Savannah Warren — Google review
Got a tour and highly recommend it. There aren’t much in the way of signs/info. So if you want to really learn about the history and culture a guide is the way. Otherwise it was a pretty cool place to explore. Tons of shade and enjoyed biking. Since Covid you aren’t allowed to hike up the big ruin, but there were others you can walk on to get up close and see the architecture of it all.
Parker Moses — Google review
Amazing archeological site. Not many people around. The ruins are in the middle of the jungle so even on a hot sunny day you are in the trees shade. There are 2 main areas and they are about 1km away from each other. You can easily walk the whole site which would take under 2 hours. You can also either rent bikes or hire a taxi-bike
Nikko — Google review
Highly recommend getting a tour guide and renting a bike or a bike cart for this archeological site, there’s a lot to learn and no signs or pamphlets if you don’t go with a guide. There’s a bathroom and some stores at the entrance but none inside the site. Wear comfortable apparel and shoes.
Located at the southern end of the Riviera Maya, the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve is a protected jungle preserve that offers guided boat tours, wildlife sightings, walkways and Mayan ruins. This natural treasure has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its diverse flora and fauna both on land and in the sea. The area comprises of various ecosystems including a rich coastline of the Mexican Caribbean.
Absolutely one of the most beautiful places on earth. Here you have the opportunity to see lots of wildlife like crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, turtles and more then 300 different species of birds. The turcoise water around Punta Allen is absolutely stunning!! Highly recommended visiting Sian Ka'an.
Matthijs van veen — Google review
We went there with a tour organized by the local community. The staff was super friendly and open to share thoughts.
On our boat trip we stopped on a beach that was full of littering. When talking with the tour guides they said that the place was completely abandoned by the administration. Even though they do their best to preserve it, it is only that much they can do.
I hope everyone who visits this place reports it to put some pressure on the admin. 🙏🏽
Irene Jim?nez — Google review
Give yourself a day to explore The Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka'an. Be forewarned that the dirt road/path is full of potholes. It takes a while to drive through the dirt road envelope by a heavy tropical forest, mangroves, lagoons, and marshes. There are many beaches to find and wildlifes to see.
Some areas are privately owned, but we found a little nice beach area that we were able to enjoy.
The drive to this reserve was 2 hours from Cancun, but we spent nearly a whole day here exploring and driving through the area and back.
Noreen Roberson — Google review
Amazing beautiful place. The drive to the pick up place (where we met our captains) is hell. 10 km by the most rocky jungle road took us around an hour but it’s so worth it. The nature is stunning. We saw 3 dolphins playing for 20 minutes! Lots of birds! No crocodiles or turtles for us but still amazing!!!
Scott Landon — Google review
This place is only for extremely patient people, that's for sure. To get there you need to either drive or go on a tour, but either way the trip is very long due to the fact that the road is not paved and it's EXTREMELY bumpy. So the driver is forced to go super slowly while the vehicle is shaking for 3 hours on the way there and 3 on the way back (from playa del carmen , a little les from tulum). It's worth doing it at least once though, because the lagoon is spectacular. You can see dolphins, turtles and manatees with their babies, in their natural habitat!
Danila Massara — Google review
You can skip it! 100 pesos entrance fee for a bad road which is mainly closed on both sites. Everything is private and the beaches plus the nature is full of plastic. I think mexicos beautiful nature is close to be past thing. Its sad but when you see what you can buy here in the supermarkets its not a surprise. Plus most of the people here just only think on profit and don't care about their nature.
Alexander Kiesche — Google review
Today 22 April 2023 it was world's earth day and we did a beach clean up in the Reserva Sian Ka'an.
We first stopped at the narrowest part, where at one side was the mangrove and at the other side the sea & beach.
Here we saw a crocodile and a manatee. As all volunteers came together we went to the actual place where the clean up was.
There were a lot of volunteers participating. We went with 7 persons of Infinity2diving from Tulum.
We gathered all together a lot of plastic garbage.
Petra (Pitch) — Google review
This is an amazing natural reserve area where there is an abundance of wildlife, including manatee, dolphins, crocodiles and many species of birds. Among the birds that were present during the dry season, when we visited, were frigates, egrets, osprey, and pink spoonbills which were nesting at the time. Fauna include of course the mangrove (red and black), air plants and banana orchids (not in bloom but still interesting) This is a must see and even though the tours are expensive at around 150 usd per person, you will get more out of it with a guide. Theoretically having that guide would mean that the tour would be more eco friendly and cause less stress to the animals. There is an unfortunate tendency for the boat drivers to surround the animals, which must cause stress. Luckily right now there are a limited number of boats but sometimes they many arrive at once and there were a few times when i wanted to leave to give the animal more space. The Mexican government needs more oversight on the Form of rangers to curb some of the less desirable behaviours before it gets more out of hand.
Paul Taylor — Google review
Really sad to be giving this one star. The road here is absolutely ridiculous. Really. This is not hyperbole. You'll be lucky to get back with your car intact. But even if you do, it's 4 intensely nervous hours of driving through potholes that you will never get back. Even with a jeep it's just not worth it. And that's 4 hours just to get nowhere and back. Seriously, just say no. Plenty of other places to explore.
Arnon Cahen — Google review
A wonderful park which definitely deserves a visit. Make sure you get a good tour that takes you snorkelling to the reef
Elena Macciò — Google review
We love visiting the Sian Ka'an and have returned multiple times. Luis, Mirian and Daniel in the buffet restaurants take very good care of you and are attentive. Victor on the animation team leads very goof aqua gym sessions, paying attention to any injuries and giving advice rather than pushing you. Love this hotel!
Tony B — Google review
Turtles, crabs, dolphins, crocodiles and Coral reef. Bird Islands (mangrove Islands) and lots of beautiful scenery. I fully recommend visiting.
Marketa Koulova — Google review
2.5 stars. this is a conflicted review.
we had an amazing guide/captain who took care of us and tried his best to show us the marine animals in the lagoon. we saw a manatee, a stingray, a lot of birds, an underground cenote,and learned a lot of interesting facts. the floating river in the middle of the mangrove forest was amazing, especially because we were the only people there. overall, it’s a beautiful place to see and i would recommend a visit.
shame about all the plastic trash washed up on the otherwise beautiful beach. i didn’t understand why they’re even showing this to tourists. our guide told us that the trash comes from the island of cozumel and washes up on this side. they don’t clean it up and just leave it there while also maintaining an image of an ecological and protected biospheric reserve that doesn’t even have functioning toilets. there should be stricter laws regarding trash and pollution in the whole of yucatan, not just in e.g. tulum where they don’t allow plastic bottles anymore. but most of all, the constant development and construction of tourist resorts and hotels needs to stop. the road leading to the mayan ruins and sian ka’an was lined with half-finished construction zones. they should never have allowed cozumel or riviera maya to become the tourist hotspot it is today.
Eli Hythova — Google review
The road is serious business, not for whiners or delicate day trippers. It has protected this area by keeping out those people who don't appreciate life's journeys.
Danette Day — Google review
Amazing view, great spot for dolphins. Boat goes fast
Samuel Colassin — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place, we saw lots of animals.
Charlie Zhang — Google review
Amazing place, simply amazing. Brilliant management plan for tourism, fingers crossed that doesn't change. Pepe was an awesome guide, very knowledgeable and had an addictive level of enthusiasm. Would love to return in 20 years to see any changes
Adam Locker — Google review
The views are amazing but not that different from those you see in Tulum public beaches, but the road is in terrible conditions. You'd average 10-15 kmph and you're lucky if you don't get motion sickness...
Very, very beautiful!!! Totally worth it. A bit pricey though, but a life jacket and snorkel kit is included. Bring an ID to secure the snorkel
Hayat Katerji — Google review
Overpriced, overcrowded, underwhelming: no changing rooms, you have to change clothes in a dirty toilet without shelves, no towels. Tourist trap. Go to Akumal, pay a fraction and see more. This here is just an empty cool pond.
Beda Hammerschmidt — Google review
MXN 500,- per person,
MXN 250,- per child.
MUST wear swimwest & shower (incl. hair) before swimming in the cenote.
you can see turtles there. feel sorry for them bc of the overtourism which infects their habitat :-/
the ppl, who work there are very unfriendly and not helpful.
Sabrina Z — Google review
Beautiful cenote but very overpriced
Sóley Jónsdóttir — Google review
Beautiful cenote. Worth it for the wildlife alone! So many turtles and fish and bats and birds. We’re able to swim so close to the turtles. Beautiful. There was a line waiting when they opened. It’s a busy one so get there early.
Open 8:10am-4:45pm
300 pesos or $15 USD
Includes a life vest
Stephanie O'Callaghan — Google review
Swimming with the turtles was more fun for adults and scared the little patooties around. The place is magical like you entered a different dimension! The entrance fee was very affordable too! We drove 2 hours from Cancun to Tulum and also paid a visit to this most talked-about Cenote.
Ja Ric — Google review
At 500 pesos, very overpriced for what it is. We spend about 2 hours here, snorkeling, laying on the grass and taking some pictures. Beware that if you want to use their snorkeling equipment, you will need to leave your ID with them or a very big deposit.
You can reach this place by bike from Tulum, the road is not that bad.
Bollejef — Google review
Amazing cenote with sump-turtles. Really beautiful place and great with an open space on top where we could enjoy the sun before going back in the cenote.
Sebastian Demant Pedersen — Google review
Really cool place, definitely recommend to go there. Entry cost 180 pesos, well worth the money. You can find turtles and "pedicure fish", it was quite busy when we got there by still really enjoyable. Bring your snorkelling stuff or you can rent them anyway there. Definitely do it:)
Paradise Beach is a stunning coastal destination in Tulum, known for its pristine white sand, palm trees and clear turquoise waters. The area offers many casual dining options and sunbed rentals for visitors to relax and enjoy the view. It's also an ideal spot for snorkeling tours to see the local marine life, including Tortuga. While it can get crowded during the daytime, heading far left provides an opportunity to enjoy a breathtaking view without any crowds.
Beautiful beach, take a snorkeling Tour to See Tortuga. It gets bit crowded at daytime. Beach Bars overpriced. Go far left to enjoy beautiful view
Massimiliano Magnini — Google review
Good place to go for the beach
it’s clean and A day bed with a table and umbrella will cost 300-500Pesos depending on the season
the beach is pretty clean here but be wary of the restaurant they have a service fee added to your bill which takes the place of a tip but all the waiters will want a tip
no tip bad service
Chad Lawrence — Google review
Beautiful water and sand. The Go Snorkeling was beautiful with clear water. Got to hang for the day and walk to different beaches and the ruins from here.
Kevin Markman — Google review
Great experience!! Beautiful beach with so much to do
Damien Love — Google review
A really nice beach located north of the Hotel Zone in Tulum. Parking is first-come-first-serve along a narrow beach lane so unless you show up early you'll probably need to pay around 100 MXN plus tip to a beach club attendant to be able to park. The beach itself is gorgeous and free to enter, if you choose there are chairs and sun loungers you can rent from a beach club, they are 100-200 pesos per day. Drinks are very reasonable, and tasty. The pina colada was the best I had in Quintana Roo. The water is nice though some sargasso is present and you'll notice it but it's not bad at all. The beach is swept of sargasso on regular basis, but you'll still notice some in the sand. Came back here for three days in a row, I guess we liked it.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
Completely filled with sargazo, no cleaning, horrible smell. No sign of paradise at all.
This is Paraiso for the owners of hotels and beach clubs with the prices they give taking into account very poor condition of the sea and the beach. Shame!
Anikeyev92 — Google review
We had an awesome time. Parking wasn’t too bad nor expensive, there was plenty of parking available. The line to get to the beach was long ~45 min in the car waiting. @the beach we were approached to do a private or group snorkeling session and we chose the private for $~135 USD, we have never snorkeled before and weren’t really given directions, just told to follow the guide but we caught on quickly. It was awesome to see the turtles and sting rays. I wish we had a GoPro but unfortunately we didn’t, but if you do you’ll get some great footage. The food was a really good price, we got a mixture which was filet mingnon, shrimp, lobster and veggies for ~$40 (that being said do NOT go to Parole restaurant they wanted $200 for a small lobster tail)
Sarah Elizabeth — Google review
One of my favorite beaches in Tulum. Lots of restaurants to eat at and hang out at the beach. They offer parking, $200 pesos.
Cynthia Q — Google review
Nice beach but seaweed/sargassum makes it dirty and stinky. Riff in about 2 min by boat where you can find not colorful corals but swim with sea turtles and manta rays. No showers or changers at the beach
Bandi Koeck — Google review
It is used to be a beautiful Caribbean beach around 5 years ago. Now it is spoiled with sargassum. Apart from nature problems, in beach clubs like everywhere in Tulum tourists are seen as bags with money. Everything is overpriced and they try to scam you all time. The beach can be accessed with your own car , by scooter or bike. Even though it is a state natural reserve they are only private parkings that charge you 250 or 300 pesos a day. If you come by taxi be prepared to pay a fortune to go back. There is no bus or any ither public transportation. You are left with no choice. From February and till end of summer it is full of sargassum and no one cares to clean it. It is a pity that all private beach clubs and hotels do not take care of the beach and just use nature to put their business. I hope people will realize it and stop going for locals finally to realize that they are in charge of providing conditions for tourist. Tons of sargassum do not even let you approach the water. Instead of cleaning it , they came up with idea of taking you 50 meters away from the shore by boat for you to be able to enter the water. Xpu ha beach is much nicer experience.
Валентина Рогачева — Google review
The best beach I’ve visited in the area. Even in winter season you can enjoying visit it.
We were into a beach club with live music and amazing food but you can visit it for free.
Just remember carry on your own drinks 🍺 and food 🥘 is a touristic place and for that reason the prices are highest.
Victor Moreno — Google review
Nice beach. I was on private side . 500 pesos to spend in a day incluse bed toilette good food.
Nicolas Freyermuth — Google review
Beautiful beach, we went twice during our trip. The walk up and down the beach is beautiful and you can see ruins from the water.
Alexx Harley — Google review
A really lovely beach but you need to wait in line for the queue to enter and pay for the “national park” that the beach sits under. The queue can take as long as 45 mins and they only take exact cash (no change given) or card. The amount is 60.50 pesos which is not a lot but the queue can be long. It’s not a beach you can just turn up to. Parking is also 150 pesos.
Nimmi Patel — Google review
I really liked this beach club. Clean, attentive staff. The territory has everything you need for a great holiday. I recommend. The beach is clean without algae.
Victoria Kokhan — Google review
The beach is beautiful! The reason for three stars is that businesses have grabbed and exploited this beautiful area. Unfortunately, the local businesses charge to park your vehicle, and charge a minimum "consumption fee" to stay on "their" beach. Overall, prices are excessive for beverages and food!
Ångel I am who I am — Google review
Indeed a lovely beach. Located in the Tulum natural park is a semi wild beach with beautiful sand, shallow water and reef barrier good for snorkeling
Catalin Marica — Google review
Had a great time with the whole family. Kids loved the inflatables on the water and the food was yummy. Service was great!! Ask for Omar - so much fun and can’t wait to come back.
The Tulum Archaeological Zone is an ancient Mayan city situated on a bluff with a view of the Caribbean Sea. It was a significant trading port during the Mayan post-classic period, attracting both land and sea routes. The city's ruins offer stunning views and architectural wonders to explore.
Very awesome! It's so breathtaking and beautiful to see. Just trying to imagine the history in this area overwhelming. I highly recommend everyone to visit and experience. I'd say average 1-2 hours to see all the ruins, ready some historical data, and just take in the beautiful scenery.
Llorito Castanares Todd — Google review
Very nice and spacious. Ruins are preserved quite well and the views of the water and beach below are stunning. There are a few nicely cut out viewpoints for the ultimate photos. Oh! And many awesome iguanas posing for your photos and walking around minding their business.
Great way to spend part of your day. ( there’s also guides around if you want the true historical tour )
Rodino Janowski — Google review
Interesting stop as part of a tour. Suggest a hard pass unless you find viewing the ruins a must see. Non stop vendors enticing you to stop for pics with monkeys, iguanas, or parrots. Oh, and don't forget the excruciating heat. Bring water, a fan and a quick ride back.
Christopher Martinez — Google review
Designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 . 600-800 year old Mayan ruins. A gem from Mayan history. Hire a guide who can provide you historical insights. Beautiful seaside property. Strategic coastal location aided trade and connections. Unique defensive walls and fortifications for protection of inhabitants.
Haroon Sarwer — Google review
This place is awesome. Step back in time to a different life. The tour guide’s are so knowledgeable and each one tells a little different story. The views are so beautiful. The beach was wonderful. We spent about an hour and a half walking around the ruins.
GREG SOUTHERN — Google review
A small set of ruins set up high on cliffs that provide a beautiful and dramatic view of the gulf. Stairs down to the beach are inaccessible now though. Absolutely worth a visit you can walk the entire complex in about 45 minutes maybe an hour if crowded. Several large buildings are very impressive though you cannot go into anything everything is at a distance. It will take longer to get in though. You absolutely want a local driver or a tour as there are multiple entrances and the rules change on a whim. Also expect a search of your vehicle by armed security or army. We went via private vehicle with a local driver (shout out to Edgar) who navigated everything for us with no issues but would have been lost on our own even with decent Spanish. You purchase tickets at a small trailer and then take them to the entrance line. While they say credit cards are ok I recommend pesos or dollars. In my opinion you do not need a tour guide at the site. Everything has placards in Spanish and English and most of the guides were just repeating what they said. Many wonderful photo opportunities. Pack water and use the restroom before you arrive as it will be dreadful hot/humid and there are no concessions bathrooms or souvenir shops anywhere on site. There are beaches outside the ruins that you can access separately, and nearby on the main road is a large tourist area with restaurants and shops.
Trey Tollison — Google review
A lovely set of ruins but with a few drawback to the experience. The ruins are impressive and the site itself well maintained. If you have a guide they will explain the history and point out some of the interesting architectural delights that is part of the Mayan ruins. Some of the sculptures are well maintained. To keep everything well maintained, the key buildings are roped off (only the local lizards can pass). That goes double for the local beach which is beautiful but inaccessible. One of the main reasons is the rubbish that littered it so beware that you won't be able to bring plastic bottles into the site. There's not much shade so bring a hat but the tour we were on wasn't that long. Outside the site, you'll find they are building a nice pathway to the ruins and there may be a wait to gain access. Where the car park is you'll find also the usual tourist shops, an original Mayan Starbucks and Hagan Dazs. It's probably best to come with a tour group just from a transport perspective as it doesn't look very accessible to those without the local knowledge. Still the ruins are impressive and it's a good half day out. Just was expecting a little more.
Julian Johnson — Google review
Tulum was beautiful. We visited as part of a tour and we think that is the best way to go if you want to learn more about the history. It is a popular attraction. I recommend going as early as you can to avoid crowds. Also note that it’s very hot and a bit of a walk. So wear a hat and comfortable walking shoes - I did neither and that is my only regret.
Amy Rash — Google review
Absolutely Fabulous, definitely a gorgeous historical site. If you care about the history I'd recommend reading up on it before visiting. The guides are well educated but they each decide which buildings and stories/histories to highlight so the more you know in advance the better. Bring plenty of water and an umbrella if possible. It was scorching in the beginning of our August visit. Requires about 15 of walking to get there and the grounds are not that big but wear comfy shoes. We were there for about an hour. Strongly suggest going and seeing the overlook of the Beach. The ground is uneven but it's easy as long as you don't have mobility issues.
Ryan L — Google review
Amazing place! Anyone who loves history, must come see this.
Pay for the tour guide at the entrance. Every building, road, sign, picture, just about every stone has meaning behind it. It is just great to have someone tell you and story and meaning behind it.
edhem besirevic — Google review
I loved this place, which is very small, perfect to do two different activities in the rest of the day. My recommendation is to take a guided trip. You will understand and appreciate more the ruins if you know the maya history.
•••voltai•••• AR. — Google review
There are several things to consider, but those will depend whether you hired a tour previously or not, because there’s a parking fee, an access fee, and a tour guide (optional). I strongly recommend to use sunscreen, mosquito repelant, bring water and maybe an umbrella for those who burn easily.
Eber H. J. — Google review
We took the Tulum Express tour, and it was nice with direct hotel pick up and drop off. It was nice because we got to go and still have 1/2 the day. The view of the ocean and turquoise water is amazing!! We came early and it was already hot and didn't have to wait to get in, but as we left the line was almost a mile long to get in and was very warm. I recommend bringing lots of water, use the umbrella, and go early. It's worth the trip.
April Maxey — Google review
Very scenic. Crowded with street vendors at the parking lot entrance. Best with a guide for the facts on what you are looking. Federal property with tons of rules and authorizes on site enforcing them. Easy to stay on pathways and easy to navigate.
Ari Villafuerte — Google review
Great time. The tour of the ruins and the boat tour of the ruins was great.
Advice: Don't bring plastic water bottles or you will have no water.
kyle rhubottom — Google review
The place is spectacular...
First there's a 500m walk before entrance you can choose to take the "train" (a bus jungle styled) for 25 pesos round way.
Even arriving early in the morning there's a lot of people but it doesn't take much time to get in. Theres a temperature check before tickets, then tickets which is not too crowded since most people have it in advance, and then the ticket check and you're in.
You should take the tour following you're left side all the time, since this one will take you up to the breathtaking ocean views and you'll get to explore the whole place.
It says is stroller friendly, it is not. You can so a smaller tour if in wheelchair or with a stroller without getting up up near the ruins.
Outside you can find souvenir shops, restaurants and shops, shops, shops. Also people with costumes and some art to take pictures with.
A must visit when in Tulum !
Alejandra Morales — Google review
✨Be prepared to be amazed and walk a lot 🚶🏼♀️I end up my day with 18k steps. To get the tickets 🎟️ you can buy them at the entrance for 85 pesos, there is also an option with a guide tour for 200 💸(I suggest that one - you avoid the long line). Purchase the water in the bookstore before to get in 💧you will need it. All the info ℹ️ an map 🗺️ can be found in the QR at the entrance. 🌂 Take a umbrella with you if possible to protect yourself from the sun ☀️. The ruins are next to the beach 🏖️ so the view is amazing. 🚶🏼♀️Near by you can access the Santa Fe Tulum beach 🌊 I got there walking from the ruins.
Hope you find this useful ❤️
Vanessa C Moya — Google review
This place is amazing!! You really need a guided tour to explain all the history you are seeing! But it is a very long walk to get them and then a lot of walking inside so may not be great for anyone with children who can't walk all of that.
Janna Murphy — Google review
The view from the top of the plateau and the dramatic coastal landscape was more impressive than the ruins themselves. It’s worth a day trip from Cancun but I wouldn’t stay longer than a couple hours 👍
Jessica Lau — Google review
The ruins are gorgeous! If you're going to go into the park with a GoPro they will ask that you pay an additional fee to the park. I believe it was like 20 pesos or something? Not super expensive! I so highly recommend going here, it is breathtaking.
Christina Cola — Google review
A Scenic Marvel with Some Considerations
The Tulum Ruins offer a unique combination of history and natural splendor, set against the backdrop of the stunning Caribbean Sea. The ruins themselves are impeccably maintained, a testament to the preservation efforts. However, I found that they didn't personally engage me as much as I had anticipated.
What truly stole the show was the panoramic view of the Caribbean. It's nothing short of a masterpiece, with its turquoise waters and the rugged coastline creating a truly breathtaking scene. This alone makes the visit worthwhile.
It's worth noting, though, that accessibility could be a factor for some visitors. The walk from the parking area to the ticket counter is quite long, and from there, it's another substantial trek to reach the ruins themselves. While the journey may be a bit taxing, the payoff at the end is undeniably worth it.
For history enthusiasts, the Tulum Ruins provide an intriguing glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. The well-preserved structures and informative guides offer valuable insights into their way of life. However, for those seeking a more interactive experience, it might leave something to be desired.
In summary, Tulum Ruins offer a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, with the view being the true highlight. Be prepared for a bit of a trek, but rest assured, the enchanting scenery at the end of the journey makes it all worthwhile.
Vinutha Goutham — Google review
Great experience long wait to get in but they are making a lot of improvements. Hopefully, that will remedy the situation. I think the main problem was all people with tickers were in a very long line, and those without walked past us to go to the front to buy tickets, then just merging into the line in front of us.
Leon Miles — Google review
Fantastic ruins of the Mayan people! Great tours are available that explain what each of the buildings are. More places are being excavated and the understanding of the culture keeps improving! I highly, recommend if you love learning about history
Juan Carlos Nieves-Perez — Google review
Definitely a very nice place to go. Located in a nice, cozy cove, this place is great to go to with a tour guide. Price is right on, and the wait is a bit hot but bearable. The whole experience, though, is very hot and warm. Additionally, they don’t allow plastic water bottles to cool off. Overall, very nice place to learn and explore Mayan history.
Harvey Shao — Google review
Archeological park definitely worth the visit. It should be around 530 Mexican pesos. You pay a surcharge if you want to use professional cameras. All around it is full of souvenir shops. The park is beautiful, as well as the ruins. The atmosphere recreated is really engaging. Better to go with a tour guide, or hire one on the spot.
Claudio Cafarelli — Google review
This was an awesome adventure to vist this world renowned archaeological site. It is just a short ferry ride and then drive to Tulum. It is definitely worth seeing. Remember it is hot here most of the year so stay hydrated. The staff here are very nice and professional and there is plenty of shopping at the entrance to the site.
Chris Lee — Google review
A must see site in the region. It takes about an hour to explore the ruins. Please be aware that plastic bottles are not allowed inside. There is very little shade. Please come prepared.
Dennis Bauszus — Google review
Very beautiful! No plastic bottles or food are allowed inside. Only reusable bottles and canned water (which they sell)
Jade Stark — Google review
Amazing, beautiful and lovely to see! Not as accessible as it could be. Ticket sales are annoying. Arrive on site, pay to park if needed (probably same cost as a taxi from town to the site). Pay a national park fee at a side booth. Go through security entrance. Walk a ways. Pay for an entrance ticket. Walk a ways. Hand your ticket over. Walk a ways. Explore the grounds up and down several stairs and slopes. We went without a guide, pausing near tour groups to hear info as we wanted. Loved seeing the amazing turquoise waters below the cliff side citadel and iguanas everywhere.
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