Mayan Ruins to Visit in Southern Mexico

Anyone traveling in the Yucatan peninsula or the Campeche and Chiapas provinces is spoiled for choice when it comes to seeing Mayan ruins.

Arguably the most famous ruins in southern Mexico are found at Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws thousands of visitors per year. The ruins are found near the city of Merida, and the large site includes the largest-known Mayan ball court in the Americas.

Another important site nearby is called Uxmal, with a 38-meter-tall pyramid the main attraction. Nature lovers will also be pleased to hear hundreds of iguanas live at the site, providing another point of interest.

© Afagundes | Dreamstime

On the other side of the Yucatan lies Tulum, a sleepy beach town that draws an increasing number of visitors. With white-sand beaches and clear waters, it is not hard to see the attraction. History lovers may be surprised to see Mayan ruins right on the coastline, which makes for a truly breathtaking combination.

To get away from the crowds, head to Campeche. From here you’ll have to hire a vehicle to reach the ruins at Calakmul, a remote site just 30 kilometers from the border with Guatemala. If you are tired of sharing the Mayan sites with tourist crowds, heading off into the jungle will allow you to appreciate the rich history in peace.

Teotihuacán © Jerl71 | Dreamstime

Further west in Chiapas lie the ruins of Yaxchilan, on the Usumacinta River. The ruins used to be a large city, and the surrounding forest is fascinating as well.

If you want to see some Mayan ruins in Mexico, don’t stick to the obvious choices like Chichen Itza. With a bit of imagination, you can see some amazing ruins and take in some nature at the same time.