Ruins in Yucatan, Mexico: Non-Touristy Ruins Near Cancun
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The Yucatan Peninsula is filled with impressive and accessible Mayan ruins. Most sites are easily reachable from Cancun and Playa del Carmen by car or on a discounted tour.
Mayan Ruins in Yucatan: (Jump To)
Chichen Itzá
Summary: If you're looking for the best Mayan ruins near Cancun, Mexico, and the best examples of Mexico's Mayan Pyramids, visit Chichen Itzá.
Location: Yucatán Peninsula
Nearest Major City: Mérida, Cancun, Riviera Maya
Map: Google Maps
For detailed information, read our full blog post about visiting Chichen Itza.
Chichen Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, beckons visitors with its iconic Kukulcán Pyramid, ancient ball court, and unique observatory. The site's historical and cultural richness, coupled with its impressive astronomical alignments and sacred cenote, offers a captivating glimpse into the advanced achievements of the ancient Maya civilization. Set in the picturesque surroundings of the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichen Itzá stands as a must-visit destination for those seeking a profound and educational experience. [Read More]
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Tulum
Summary: These Mayan Ruins near Playa del Carmen are some of the best Ruins in Yucatan, Mexico.
Location: Riviera Maya, along the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula.
Nearest Major City: Playa del Carmen.
Map: Google Maps
Tulum, a coastal Mayan archaeological site in Mexico, is renowned for its stunning setting overlooking the Caribbean Sea. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tulum showcases well-preserved ruins, including the iconic Castillo. Visitors are drawn to Tulum for its historical significance, breathtaking views, and the unique experience of exploring ancient structures against the backdrop of the turquoise waters. The site provides a cultural journey into the Maya civilization, making Tulum a must-visit destination.
Palenque
Summary: If you're planning on visiting Mayan Ruins in Mexico, Palenque is unique and, due to its location, less busy than other sites.
Location: Chiapas, in the jungle.
Nearest Major City: Villahermosa.
Map: Google Maps
Palenque, nestled in the lush jungles of Chiapas, Mexico, stands as a remarkable Mayan archaeological site. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Palenque captivates visitors with its intricately detailed structures, including the iconic Temple of the Inscriptions. The site's historical significance and the surrounding tropical scenery create a unique and immersive experience. Palenque invites exploration into the mysteries of ancient Maya culture, making it an essential destination for those seeking a blend of history and natural splendor.
Coba
Summary: The Mexico Coba Ruins are ruins near the Riviera Maya Mexico. The Mayan Ruins are smaller and easier to visit than the aforementioned Mayan Ruins Near Tulum Mexico.
Location: Yucatán Peninsula, between Tulum and Valladolid.
Nearest Major City: Playa del Carmen.
Map: Google Maps
Coba, situated on the Yucatán Peninsula, offers a distinctive Mayan archaeological experience. Embraced by the jungle, Coba's ruins, including the Nohoch Mul Pyramid, reveal the architectural prowess of the ancient Maya. As a site of historical importance, Coba provides insights into Maya civilization against the backdrop of the Mexican tropical landscape. Coba is recognized for its unique structures and is surrounded by lush greenery.
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Calakmul
Summary: These Mayan Ruins in Yucatan Mexico are the most remote and difficult-to-visit Maya Ruins in Mexico.
Location: Campeche, in the Yucatán Peninsula.
Nearest Major City: Campeche City.
Map: Google Maps
Calakmul is an ancient Maya archaeological site and one of the largest and most powerful ancient cities discovered in the Maya lowlands. It was a major center during the Classic Period and is known for its impressive structures, including pyramid-like temples and stelae.
Calakmul is a remote site within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. Visitors often travel by car from Campeche or other nearby cities. Guided tours and transportation services are available from Campeche.
Ek Balam
Summary: These Mayan ruins in Mexico near Cancun are often overshadowed by Chichen Itzá, which is nearby. A visit to both sites is a great idea for those interested.
Location: Yucatán Peninsula.
Nearest Major City: Valladolid.
Maps: Google Maps
Ek Balam is a well-preserved Mayan archaeological site known for its intricate stucco façade on the Acropolis, as well as various structures, including pyramids and ball courts. Visitors can explore the site and nearby cenotes. While worth visiting, the site is often overshadowed by the nearby ruins of Chichen Itza. A visit to Ek Balam provides a more relaxed visit.
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Uxmal
Summary: Visit Mayan Ruins in Mexico with a stop in Uxmal. Further from the tourist hot spots on the coast, the site is an impressive and important place to visit.
Location: Yucatán Peninsula.
Nearest Major City: Mérida.
Maps: Google Maps
Uxmal is a prominent Mayan archaeological site known for its well-preserved Puuc-style architecture. The Pyramid of the Magician is a notable structure, along with the Governor's Palace and the Nunnery Quadrangle. While the site is much smaller than other area ruins, the imposing pyramid, one of the largest on the peninsula, makes the site a must-visit destination for those interested in Mayan ruins and culture.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Cancun or Mexico!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Mayan Ruins Yucatan Map
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