Mexico’s Ancient Ruins (other than Tulum)
Chances are you’ve heard of Tulum. You may have even researched Teotihuacan and are all up to speed on your Chichen Itza history. But, believe it or not, when it comes to ancient ruins in Mexico, you’ve only scratched the surface.
There are dozens (maybe even hundreds) of ancient ruins across Mexico, from Mayan ruins and pyramids in and around Cancun to those buried deep in the jungles of southern Mexico, and others perched atop plateaus in the mountainous highlands. There are a lot of ancient ruins in Mexico. So if you want to level up your antiquities game, here are a few of my favorite ancient ruins in Mexico.
Palenque, Chiapas
Chiapas, Mexico is one of my favorite states. It’s one of the most naturally beautiful I’ve ever seen. It’s home to the misty city of San Cristobal de las Casas, which is steeped in ancient Mayan shamanism traditions, has plunging waterfalls, lush jungles, fantastic coffee, and rich chocolate. But it also has some of my favorite Mayan ruins.
Shrouded in jungle and surrounded by mountains, the lost city of Palenque was one of the most powerful in the Mayan world, rivaling Tikal in Guatemala. It's a sprawling complex of temples (the Temple of the Inscriptions is mind-blowing), palaces, and pavilions seemingly untouched by time and rising out of the jungle in true lost city splendor. Palenque was abandoned around the year 900 and was discovered by intrepid European explorers in the 18th century. Its hieroglyphics have been integral to the study of Mayan culture today.
If you’re headed into the jungles of Chiapas to check out the Mayan ruins at Palenque, you will probably come across the jungle hideaway at El Panchan. This bohemian enclave is tucked in the forest off the main road that leads to the ruins. Inside you’ll find several budget bungalow-style accommodations, two restaurants, and a community of backpackers looking to socialize and tie one on after a day of hiking the ruins. Embrace the unwashed ambiance as you suck back wood-fired pizzas, frosty beers, and listen to live music, all while bonding with an international band of fellow travelers who are making their way across Mexico by bus.
Calakmul, Campeche
Right next door to the state of Quintana Roo is the state of Campeche, one of the more mysterious states in the country. In fact, about 15% of Campeche is covered in jungle. Hidden within this thick foliage are some of the most beautiful Mayan ruins, many of which are little explored by tourists.
Calakmul was discovered in the 1930s, however only a small part of the place has actually been uncovered and opened to the public. The site was occupied for more than 1,000 years and was the main rival to Tikal in Guatemala. Today you can explore burial crypts, carvings, pyramids, and temples. About 6,000 buildings have been located, but only a few have actually been explored.
Coba, Tulum
If you're looking for some cool pyramids in Mexico (near Cancun, but actually closer to Playa del Carmen and Tulum), the ancient ruins of Coba are exactly what the doctor ordered. Believe it or not, the ruins at Coba include the tallest pyramid in the state of Quintana Roo, AND you can climb it. Talk about views.
Coba only opened to the public a few years ago, so it's still relatively under the radar, especially when everyone else is sweating in the sun at the actual ruins in Tulum, Mexico. But now you know where to beat the crowds (and the heat) with this more secretive location.
The complex is pretty massive, so you can rent a bike to cycle the many ancient pathways (for which Coba is particularly famous). That said, if you're short on time you can make your way to the main pyramid and then carry on with your day lounging at one of the many hotels in Playa del Carmen.
Guachimontones, Jalisco
Looking for cool things to do in Guadalajara? Look no further than Guachimontones. These weird, circular pyramids were discovered just outside of Guadalajara in the 1960s. Built around 2000 years ago by yet another indigenous tribe of Mexico, the largest pyramid rises about 60 feet high and has more than 50 steps to the top.
Road trip tip: Guachimontones makes a great stop if you're doing a road trip from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta.
Monte Alban, Oaxaca
Traveling in Oaxaca, Mexico? While you're there I'm sure you'll be stuffing your face with mole and mezcal. But you absolutely should make it a point to visit the Monte Alban pyramids. This ancient ruins site was built by the Zapotecs, one of the many indigenous tribes of Mexico. Monte Alban is about a 10-minute bus ride out of the city center, and makes a really great way to spend the afternoon. Since it's so close you don't even have to commit the entire day to it, though you can if you want. Trust me, there's plenty to see.
The entire city sits on a plateau, surrounded by towering mountains and overlooking the entire Oaxaca valley. It's a remarkable site.