ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES

CHICHÉN ITZÁ

Just 42 kilometers from Valladolid lies this remarkable Mayan settlement, which reached its peak during the Postclassic period and has gained worldwide recognition for the grandeur of its architecture. At this archaeological site, you’ll be captivated by the monumental Kukulkan pyramid, also known as El Castillo, constructed with ancient astronomical precision, revealing its full architectural brilliance during the equinoxes. Explore the Ball Court adorned with intricate sculpted reliefs, the Temple of the Jaguars, the Temple of the Nuns, and El Caracol. A sacbé, the white ceremonial road, leads to the Sacred Cenote that gave the city its name.

EK BALAM

Located 40 kilometers from Valladolid, this archaeological zone, meaning “Black Jaguar,” was one of the last to be discovered in the Yucatán Peninsula. In this Mayan city, you’ll find 45 structures, most notably The Acropolis, a monumental building housing magnificent sculptures and the tomb of King Ukit with numerous offerings, the ball game, the Oval Palace, and a double wall surrounding the city.

COBÁ

Near Valladolid, yet hidden within the dense tropical jungle, stands the ancient city of Cobá. These Mayan ruins are home to the tallest pyramid in the neighboring state of Quintana Roo, the Nohoch Muul temple, from which you can enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the area. Explore these vestiges on foot or by bicycle, where you’ll also find the home of an authentic Mayan community that has managed to be self-sufficient by utilizing the resources of the lake system.