Ruins in the Riviera Maya and Yucatan

There are many kinds of travelers: those who prefer to spend the whole day at the beach, shopping at the malls, or taking the sun at the hotel pool; and those who rather go outside and find some adventure. If you belong to the second group, then the Riviera Maya is the perfect place to be! 

Everybody thinks that this destination is just beautiful beaches and fancy hotels, but there’s another side to it, THE RUINS SIDE!

The remains of ancient Mayan cities are now perfect places to take long walks, listen to amazing stories, and overall, have fun! These are the four ruins you must visit on your next vacation to Cancun and the Riviera Maya.

1.- Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is located in Yucatan, just two hours away from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. The most popular building among this group of ruins is “El Castillo,” one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and it’s supposed to be a temple built in the name of Kukulkan. This temple has 18 terraces that represent the 18 months in the Mayan calendar and, on specific dates, a shadow in the shape of a snake is formed on its sides.

If you are interested in the whole story, you can go on a trip with an expert guide. He will tell you everything about this event and the history of this place. You can also find some near caves and cenotes, as well as restaurants and shops where you can buy some souvenirs.

2.- Coba

This ancient Mayan city is located in Quintana Roo, 76 miles from Playa del Carmen. It’s surrounded by a dense jungle and two large lagoons that you can watch from the top of the Nohoch Mul pyramid, the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula. Climbing this building is the main attraction in Coba, but not the only thing you can do. There are guides who can give you a tour through the site and you can rent bikes so you can have a more comfortable trip.

3.- Ek Balam

Near the city of Valladolid in Yucatan, 30 min away of Chichen Itza, you will find the archaeological site of Ek Balam. A beautiful and well-preserved group of buildings make up this place from which only the central portion has been completely discovered. The most important structure here is “Acropolis” or “The Tower,” an impressive palace with over 500 ft of height.

The name Ek Balam comes from the Mayan language and is usually translated into “Black Jaguar,” although, some experts also translate this words into “Jaguar Star.” It’s the less known ruins site in the surroundings, but it has as much beauty and interesting information as any other.

4.- Tulum

Tulum is one of the most known Mayan ruins in the Riviera Maya. The translation of Tulum is “wall,” making reference to the three walls located around this city. However, the original name of the town is “Zama,” which means “dawn.” The combination of beautiful beaches and amazing ruins offer an amazing landscape that you won’t find in any other place. This site is the only Mayan city built at the edge of the beach.

The ruins in the Riviera Maya and Yucatan are just stunning and filled with beauty, but sadly, many people don’t know the history behind those amazing structures. So, when coming to the Riviera Maya, don’t miss the chance to visit those wonderful places and learn more about the Mayan culture. You won’t regret it!