Cancun is more than just a tropical beachside paradise; it’s also home to the remains of the Mayan Empire, one of the most advanced civilizations in history. Today, the remnants of their cities remain in ruins, with palaces, observatories, ceremonial sites and temple-pyramids dotting the Yucatan Peninsula’s landscape. Many of the vast ancient architectural monoliths and sites are open to tourists. Some of the ruins are located close enough to hotels in Cancun to make a perfect day excursion or optional overnight trip. Check out the following must-see Mayan ruins around Cancun.
Tulum
The ruins of Tulum sit on the shores of the Caribbean, two hours south of Cancun by car. It was once called the Walled City and is thought to be a pivotal location the Mayans used to defend their empire. Be sure to take the time to climb the cliffs and marvel at the stunning ocean views from the ruins of the fortress. Stay until nightfall to see the ruins lit up with a bevy of lights.
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is a popular tourist hot spot during the summer and fall equinoxes when the sun creates shadows on the steps of the pyramid that resemble a large descending snake. On March 21 and September 21, Cancun hotels usually book up, as travelers flock to view the phenomenon.
“Coba Group Pyramid-27527” by Ken Thomas – KenThomas.us(personal website of photographer). Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons.
Coba
The steep Coba pyramid can be a challenge to climb, but once on top the view of the surrounding ruins and jungle make it well worth the effort. It takes approximately three hours to drive from Cancun to Coba. At the entrance to the ruins are a few small restaurants and gift shops for the hungry traveler.
Kohunlich
Kohunlich, Southeast of Cancun, near the Belize border, was once a thriving, vibrant city. The ruins of much of the city still remain and can be toured. Built in 200 BC, it’s known for the Temple of the Masks, a pyramid structure featuring enormous stucco masks.
Most tours of the Mayan ruins and the surrounding Yucatan peninsula are easily booked at any of Cancun’s beach hotel resorts. Some tour operators keep information booths at resorts to make choosing the right tour a breeze.
Cancun, I would love to visit this one day! how much did you spend for this trip?
I want to see these history of mayans. Eversince ived watched ancient aliens i had this fascination with mayans and stuff
Cancun has always been popular as a tourist destination because of the peach and the very lively party lifestyle. It’s nice to know that the Mayan temples make Cancun culturally rich too!
Although Mexico is halfway around the world, I really hope to be able to visit this country mainly for the Mayan archeological sites. I have to see that pyramid in real life.
I see Cancun a lot in travel magazines and shows. I love that this place is so rich in history and those ruins would be fun to explore. I hope to visit this someday.
Sounds like an interesting place. If I got the chance, I would like to visit here.
We are a big fan of such a historical places and those monuments whenever you visit such places there is always a feel of some interesting unknown facts attached to it.
Would love to see the ruins in Cancun. They have a really nice heritage here and it’s a really nice attraction.
Mayan civilization is well-defined by these wonders. Love to visit Chichen Itza.
I watch the documentary of Cancun made by the BBC, and I was amaze with all the scenery — Take a tour of the beaches, resorts and an eco park in Cancun.
Central Smerica and the Catribean! Totally on my bucket list. I do wish to make it there, one day!
Cancun is a place for summer holiday with beauty beaches, parties and scenery. Wish I can go there soon.