Top 7 must-see Mayan ruins in the Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya is a tourist region located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, in the state of Quintana Roo. It extends from Puerto Morelos to Tulum and includes the island of Cozumel.

This area is recognized worldwide for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and a rich culture and history that attract millions of visitors each year.

This area is of great historical importance, thanks to the Mayan civilization, which originated in this region and left behind an incredible legacy that includes significant advances in astronomy, mathematics and architecture.

The Riviera Maya is home to a number of Mayan archaeological sites that offer a fascinating glimpse into this ancient civilization. In this article we present seven Mayan ruins you shouldn’t miss when visiting the area

1. Tulum archaeological site

Located 130 km south of Cancun and 70 km from our Princess Riviera Maya hotels, this site is situated on top of a small cliff overlooking the Caribbean.

Tulum is one of the most picturesque ruins in the region. It was an important port city during the Postclassic Mayan period and is famous for its structure, El Castillo (the Castle), which offers a breath-taking view of the ocean.

Visiting hours are from 8 am to 5 pm and it is open every day. It is worth mentioning that the distance from the main entrance to the archaeological site is 1 km, which can be covered on foot or on a small shuttle-train.

This is the perfect opportunity to learn about Mayan civilisation, enjoy a tour of the ruins, then cool off on the wonderful Tulum Beach.

Learn more about this site in our guide to Tulum.

2. Ancient Mayan city of Cobá

Cobá is a vast archaeological site in the heart of the jungle that is known for the Nohoch Mul pyramid, one of the tallest in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramid for panoramic views of the jungle.

The zone enjoys a privileged location, as it is close to 5 lagoons as well as a number of cenotes.

It stands out for having an extensive network of roads (known as ‘sacbé’ in Mayan language, i.e. white road) that facilitated trade in the past.

Take advantage of your trip to Cobá and visit:

• The Church temple

• The Oval temple

• Two pelota courts

• The renowned stelae, a series of stone slabs on which the Mayas recorded important events and astronomical knowledge.

Cobá is 1 hour and 40 minutes from our Princess Riviera Maya hotels.

3. Mayan ruins of Xel-Há

Xel-Ha was one of the main commercial ports of the Late Postclassic period.

As part of the tour that is currently available, visitors can admire some amazing examples of mural painting, especially in what is known as the ‘The Birds’ building, constructed between 200 and 600 A.D.

The buildings known as the Jaguar Group are also home to the feline that lends its name to the complex, which was built between the Mid and Late Postclassic period (1200 – 1550 A.D.).

The archaeological site is located 16 km north of Tulum and just 11 km from Princess Hotels Riviera Maya, on the west side of the 307 Puerto Juarez – Chetumal federal highway.

The site should not be confused with Xelhá Park, the access to which is located on the east side of the aforementioned highway. If you prefer, you can also get there by public transport. For more information, just ask at reception in any of our hotels.

4. Xcaret ruins

Like Xel-Ha, Xcaret is an ecological park that is also home to Mayan ruins.

The site was an ancient port city and ceremonial centre, and visitors can explore the ancient structures while enjoying the park’s contemporary attractions.

Opening hours for the archaeological site are Monday to Sunday from 8am to 5pm.

Xcaret’s pre-Hispanic areas are found towards the back of the cove, on the Tropical Rainforest Trails, behind the Voladores de Papantla (Flying Men of Papantla) stage, and between the Open Forum and the Coral Reef Aquarium.

The location is half an hour’s drive from the Riviera Maya Princess Hotels, in the grounds of Xcaret Park.

5. Archaeological treasures of Ek’ Balam

Although it is further from the coast (a 4 hour drive from Princess Hotels Riviera Maya), Ek’ Balam is an impressive archaeological site that is not to be missed.

The site includes some surprising structures, such as the Acropolis, which is home to well-preserved sculptures and decorations.

Visitors are encouraged to stroll around and admire the walls, murals, stelae, squares and sumptuous palaces.

Opening hours for the archaeological area are Monday to Sunday, 8 am to 5 pm. Last admission is 4 pm.

6. Mayan ruins at Muyil

Muyil, also known as Chunyaxché, is located southwest of Tulum, 1 hour and 25 minutes from the Princess Riviera Maya hotels.

The site offers a combination of archaeological ruins, beautiful natural landscapes, and trails leading to the lagoon.

Of particular interest are the pyramid of Muyil and the temple that crowns the pyramid.

Opening hours are Monday to Sunday, 8 am to 5 pm. Last admission is 4 pm.

7. Mayan ceremonial centre San Gervasio

San Gervasio is an important religious centre that is dedicated to the goddess Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of fertility and medicine.

This archaeological site is the largest on the island of Cozumel and offers a fascinating insight into Mayan religious practices.

Between driving and taking a ferry to the island, the site is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from the Princess Riviera Maya hotels.

More than just sun and sand, the Riviera Maya is also an immersion in history and culture, and all in a setting of stunning natural beauty.

It is the ideal destination for people looking for a travel experience that is both educational and exciting. Visiting the Riviera Maya and its historic ruins gives you the opportunity to connect with the past, enjoy the present and create unforgettable memories for the future.

Which of these archaeological sites would you most like to see? Leave us a comment, we love to hear from you.

Categories: Caribbean, Travel Tips, Riviera Maya