The best archaeological sites in the Riviera Maya and how to get there

History and adventure: the Mayan ruins you can't miss!

The Riviera Maya is famous not only for its dreamy beaches and crystalline cenotes but also for hosting impressive archaeological sites that tell the story of the Mayan civilization.

Exploring these sites is like traveling back in time and discovering the magic of a culture that left an impressive legacy.

In this blog, I will tell you which are the most impressive ones in the Riviera Maya, how to get to them, and a special tip to make your trip easier and more comfortable.

👉 Read these tips for safe travel

1. Tulum: the walled city facing the sea

Tulum is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic archaeological sites, not only for its historical importance, but also for its spectacular location by the Caribbean Sea. This ancient walled city was a key port for Mayan trade and today offers a breathtaking panoramic view.

Not to be missed:

• The Castle, which dominates the view of the sea.
• The Temple of the Descending God.
• The House of Columns.

Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last access at 4:30 p.m.).

Location

• From Playa del Carmen: Approximately 1 hour by car.
• From Cancun: About 2 hours by car.
• Tip: With Xcaret Expeditions, you can enjoy a guided tour that includes transportation, a certified bilingual guide, and free time to explore the ruins and relax on the beach.

2. Coba: the adventure in the jungle

Coba is perfect for those looking for a more immersive and adventurous experience. This ancient Mayan city is known for its sacbé paths (white trails) and the imposing Nohoch Mul pyramid, the tallest in the Yucatán peninsula at 42 meters high.

Not to be missed:

• Climb Nohoch Mul and admire the jungle.
• Cycle along the sacbé trails.
• Explore the Ball Game.

Location

• From Playa del Carmen: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.
• From Tulum: Only 45 minutes by car.

Tip: Xcaret Expeditions offers an excursion that combines Coba and Tulum in one day, ideal to make the most of your visit.

3. Chichén Itzá: wonder of the modern world

Declared one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, Chichen Itza is a must-see. Its main pyramid, El Castillo or Temple of Kukulkan, is famous for the phenomenon of light and shadow that occurs during the equinoxes, where it seems that a snake descends its steps.

Not to be missed:

• El Castillo, icon of the area.
• The Great Ball Game.
• The Sacred Cenote.
• The Temple of the Warriors

Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Closing of ticket offices and accesses at 4:00 p.m., closing of distant accesses to the interior of the site at 4:30 p.m.).

Location

• From Playa del Carmen: About 2 and a half hours by car.
• From Cancun: Approximately 3 hours.

Tip: Xcaret Expeditions Tour includes a certified guide, comfortable transportation, buffet lunch and a stop at a nearby cenote to cool off, all planned so you only have to worry about enjoying yourself!

4. Ek Balam: the lesser-known jewel

Ek Balam is a hidden gem that surprises those who venture to visit it. Its name means “Black Jaguar” in Maya and stands out for its well-preserved structures and unique architectural details, such as the impressive entrance in the shape of a jaguar's mouth.

Not to be missed:

• The Acropolis, with its impressive reliefs.
• The Oval Temple.
• The panoramic view from the top.

Location

• From Valladolid: Approximately 30 minutes by car.
• From Playa del Carmen: About 2 hours and 15 minutes.

5. Muyil: the mix of archeology and nature

Muyil is a small but fascinating archaeological site located within the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. The special thing about this place is that it combines the ruins with a unique experience in the lagoon, where you can take a boat ride and float through the crystalline water channels created by the Maya.

Not to be missed:

• Muyil Castle, the tallest structure.
• The walk in the lagoon and canals.
• The walk through the jungle.

Location

Muyil is located on Federal Highway 307, it is a community adjacent to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. It has its own Archaeological Zone, and has a pier from where tours depart to the interior of Sian Ka'an.

• From Tulum: Approximately 25 minutes by car.
• From Playa del Carmen: 1 hour and 30 minutes.

6. Uxmal: the city of perfect architecture

Uxmal is one of the most impressive archaeological sites for its complex decorations and constructions, perfectly aligned with the stars. It is famous for its geometric reliefs and masks of Chaac, the god of rain.

Not to be missed:

• The Pyramid of the Soothsayer, oval-shaped.
• The Quadrangle of the Nuns.
• The Governor's Palace.

Hours: Monday to Sunday from 08:00 to 17:00 hours.

Location

• Uxmal is located southwest, in the direction of Campeche, 80 km from Merida.
• From Merida: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car.
• From Playa del Carmen: About 4 hours.

Exploring the archaeological sites of the Riviera Maya is an experience that connects you with the history, culture, and majesty of the Mayan civilization.

So now you know, add the one you were most interested in visiting to your next Riviera Maya travel itinerary! 🚌

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