Top Things to do in Yucatan Peninsula
Top Hotels in Yucatan Peninsula
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Things to do in Yucatan Peninsula, Yucatan Peninsula: The Best Historic Sites
Hidden gems of Yucatan, such as Tulum, Akumal, Chetumal, Chichen Itza and Merida, offer an authentic taste of Mexico. Akumal and more Caribbean-style Chetumal, near the Belize border, deliver delectable white-sand beaches and great snorkelling. Merida, Chichen Itza and Tulum, with their ancient ruins, offer a passage into the Yucatanâs native history. Nature lovers can jungle trek and swim in subterranean sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water. Bike around the ruins and hop between towns in colectivo vans.
Restaurants in Yucatan Peninsula
1. Templo de Kukulkan
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4,178 reviews
This impressive pyramid dominates Chichén Itzá's landscape, standing an imposing 24 meters high.
Reviewed By B1714D - Belgrade, Serbia
Well, this is the main attraction of Chichen Itza and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. It's enlisted in the new seven wonders of the world. It's full name is Temple of Kukulkan - a feather divine beast adorned by Maya which had supernatural powers. On El Castillo, Kukulkan is carved twisted on both sides of the northern stairway. It's so immaculately built that only twice a year, during the spring and autumn equinoxes, the sun illuminates its entire length from top to bottom (amazing, see it on Youtube). Besides that there're more interesting facts - the pyramid has 9 levels plus the Temple on top. Each side's staircase has 91 stairs, which multiplied by 4 sides and the Temple on top makes the grand total of 365 (days in year).
2. Calakmul Archaeological Zone
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 687 reviews
Ancient Mayan city historians now believe to have been bigger than Chichén Itzá.
Reviewed By giblinVanBauzanum
Saying that Calakmul is breathtaking will not give this place enough justice. It has beautifully preserved ruins, clad in vegetation, which gives them this mysterious and adventurous look. Waliking amids the jungle and discovering all this ancient places is totally a different experience compared to any other ruin. The site is also so huge and vast , that is likely that you will see very few tourists even in crowded periods. The site is reachable by a 40km bumpy road, which will take you 1h and a half from the main road. Be prepares to stay there at least 3 hours and bring lots of water. You will need them. A bit off hand but totally worth it
3. Zona Arqueologica Uxmal
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4,190 reviews
An ancient Mayan building thought to be a school and named by a Spanish historian who thought it looked like a European monastery.
Reviewed By TravelingLily2014 - Niskayuna, United States
With so many sites to choose from, it might be easy to skip Uxmal....but please don’t. It is a wonderful site and you can STILL climb some of the pyramids, although not the main one. It is large, with lots to see. The architecture is extraordinary. We returned for the sound and light show and although we didn’t understand the Spanish, we understood the story and loved seeing the site at night.
4. Zona Arquelogica Edzna
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 855 reviews
Reviewed By fits87 - Miami Beach, United States
Amazing place!! A hidden mayan gem, just make sure to take water and mosquito repellent as there are many. But great place to take pics
5. Zona Arqueologica de Oxkintok
6. Zona Arqueologica Kohunlich
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 50 reviews
Reviewed By markpN8874JB - Denver, United States
This site is a bit more accessible than some of the other nearby site and more extensively restored. You can see an acropolis, several residential areas and the Building of the Figureheads. There you will see several 6' tall figureheads that are well preserved since they were entombed by a later structure.
7. Pre Hispanic Town Of Uxmal
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By B1714D - Belgrade, Serbia
The Uxmal town dates back to 9th century, when it was one of the most important cities on Yucatan peninsula. However its decline and vanishing are still unknown, since it was already abandoned when Spaniards arrived in the 16c. Therefore, the site is greatly preserved and one of the best to explore throughout the peninsula.
8. Zona Arqueologica de Kabah
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 250 reviews
Once a thriving Mayan city, now an impressive ruin.
Reviewed By DollyL_11 - Merida, Mexico
Kabah is a large set of Mayan ruins that are pretty and varied. The site doesn't require walking in the jungle but does require climbing to fully view its features. Lovely views.
9. Chichen Itza
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25,325 reviews
Reviewed By LegiaW67 - Massapequa Park, United States
Amazing and historical place Our Tour guide Sergio was fantastic explain all the history of Mayan culture One of seven wonders of the world Must see
10. Hacienda Yaxcopoil
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 212 reviews
Hacienda Yaxcopoil (YASH-coh-poh-EEL) is a Yucatan plantation dating back to the 17th century. The hacienda has been the location of several film and television productions, and is featured in most travel guides. Its archives are frequently cited in historical texts and research. The Hacienda may be the best preserved but unrestored hacienda in the Yucatan. The Hacienda is open daily for tours, a private guest house, museum of Mayan artifacts, gift shop, snack bar and events.
Reviewed By RafaMazatlan - Mazatlan, Mexico
Wanted to visit some old haciendas while in Mérida, and we choose Hacienda Yaxcopoli. What a surprise!, right at the first entrance you encounter this double arched gate that is fabulous! and as you enter more into the hacienda, you will experience the fantastic spaces,, de decorations, the welth, the fabulous old furniture,etc., atc. At the back of the hacienda you will find some of the old machinery that they used to work with the henequen, that is incredible. The side trip is worthed.
