Which Mayan Ruins are closest to your resort?

A complete guide to which Mayan Ruins are closest to you

Photo-realistic cinematic scene of a highway lined with palm trees leading through the Yucatan Peninsula. On the right side are the iconic ruins of Chichen Itza and Coba, while the left side features the cliff and main temple of Tulum, along with the Ek Balam ruins. The horizon shows the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and a sandy beach, creating a tropical coastal atmosphere. The road stretches forward with depth and perspective, under a clear blue sky, illuminated by soft sunlight.

The Mayan civilization is one of the most fascinating ancient cultures of Mesoamerica, renowned for its architectural feats, advanced understanding of astronomy, and sophisticated writing system. From towering pyramids to intricately designed temples, these archaeological treasures have become major attractions for travelers seeking to explore the mysteries of the past. Now you are probably wondering, which Mayan Ruins are the closest to your resort?

Living Dreams Mexico offers exceptional guided tours to the most iconic Mayan ruins. Our private excursions to Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba provide deep insights into the historical significance of these sites and the ancient civilizations that once thrived there.

This guide will answer the following questions:

Which Mayan ruins are closest to Cancun?
Are there Mayan ruins in Cancun Hotel Zone?
How far is Chichen Itza from Cancun?
Which Mayan ruins can you climb?
Can you visit Mayan ruins from Cozumel?
Which Mayan ruins to visit from Costa Mujeres?

Introduction to the exploration of Mayan ruins

For centuries, the Mayan ruins remained hidden beneath dense jungle vegetation, forgotten and overshadowed by colonial structures. It wasn’t until the 19th century, when explorers like John Lloyd Stephens and Frederick Catherwood ventured into the Yucatán Peninsula. Because of them these lost cities began to captivate the imagination of scholars and adventurers alike.

"An illustration depicting early explorers and workers uncovering ancient Mayan ruins in the jungle, with trees and dense vegetation surrounding a partially excavated stone structure. The image, in soft muted tones, captures a historical moment of archaeological discovery, showing men in 19th-century attire using tools and observing the site, likely representing an early excavation at Tulum."

The image above is a striking illustration by Frederick Catherwood, showcasing the early exploration of Mayan ruins. Catherwood played a big role in showing the world the ancient Mayan civilization during his travels in the 1800s. Because of his detailed drawings and stories gave people a rare chance to see and learn about the hidden cities in the jungle that had been lost for centuries.

For a deeper dive into their contributions to Mesoamerican archaeology, you can read more about their journeys and work here.

Which Mayan Ruins Are Closest to Cancun?

If you’re staying in Cancun, several Mayan ruins are just a few hours’ drive away, perfect for day trips:

Tulum: 88 miles from Cancun (approximately 2 hours)
Coba: 98 miles (2.5 hours)
Muyil: 99 miles (2 hours 15 minutes)
Ek Balam: 120 miles (2.5 hours)
Chichen Itza: 140 miles (3 hours)

El Rey in the Cancun Hotel Zone offers a smaller yet historically significant glimpse into the region’s ancient past. Though not as grand as Chichen Itza or Tulum, it’s a convenient and accessible option for those with limited time.

Mayan Ruins closest to your resort

Our detailed schedule provides an easy-to-read guide for planning your next adventure.

Infographic displaying travel times from various departure points (Costa Mujeres, Cancun Hotel Zone, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum) to key Mayan sites (Tulum, Coba, Muyil, Ek Balam, Chichen Itza, and El Rey). Travel times are shown in hours and minutes, with a color scheme of black and royal blue, complemented by a Mayan ruins theme and tropical imagery. The table is clearly organized with destination times to help travelers plan their excursions.

The travel times provided are estimates for one-way trips during a private excursion. Please note that actual travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions, road quality, and other unforeseen factors.

Are There Mayan Ruins in Cancun Hotel Zone?

Yes, there is a Mayan archaeological site within the Cancun Hotel Zone itself: El Rey. Though smaller in scale than other Mayan cities, this ancient site was a significant trading center in its time. El Rey offers a unique opportunity to explore Mayan ruins without leaving Cancun. Visitors can stroll among the stone structures and even encounter the site’s well-known residents—large iguanas that sunbathe on the ruins. If you are staying in Cancun El Rey are the Mayan Ruins closest to your resort!

Chichen Itza: The Crown Jewel of Mayan Architecture

Chichen Itza is perhaps the most famous of all the Mayan ruins, and for good reason. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza features some of the most well-preserved ancient structures. Dominated by the iconic “El Castillo” (Temple of Kukulcan), the city was a major political and economic center at its height.

When you book our private Dream Chichen Itza Tour with Living Dreams Mexico, your travel time is significantly reduced. You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel. Unlike shared tours, you’ll go directly to the archaeological site. Therefore, you are avoiding the 3 to 4-hour detours by picking up and dropping of other travelers.

Our private and small-group tours offer expert-guided excursions, immersing you in the rich history and culture of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.

On a private excursion, the journey to Chichen Itza takes around 3 hours. In contrast, shared tours can take 4 to 5 hours each way because of multiple hotel pick-ups and drop-offs. Our private tour lasts around 9 to 10 hours from pick-up to drop-off, providing a more efficient and personalized experience.

Which Mayan Ruins Can You Climb?

While many Mayan ruins have restricted climbing to preserve their integrity, some still allow visitors to ascend their ancient pyramids.

One such site is Ek Balam, where the main structures remains accessible for climbers. The Ek Balam ruins are among the tallest in the region, towering at 95 feet and can be easily combined with Chichen Itza.

Two people sitting on the edge of a stone structure at Ek Balam, overlooking the lush green jungle and ancient ruins in the distance. The expansive view showcases the beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula under a cloudy sky, with the couple enjoying the serene and scenic landscape.

The Nohoch Mul pyramid at Coba, once a popular attraction for visitors eager to climb and enjoy expansive views, has remained closed for climbing since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Previously, it was one of the few Mayan structures still accessible to the public. However, the site has yet to reopen for climbing, and it remains uncertain if it will be accessible again. Nevertheless, visitors can still explore the impressive ruins and surrounding jungle, though scaling the iconic pyramid is no longer permitted.

Visitors cycling along a dirt path through a dense jungle at the Coba ruins, with some riding traditional tricycle taxis while others pedal bikes. The scene captures the lush greenery of the forest and the relaxed, adventurous atmosphere of the excursion.

The Coba Wild Monkey Reserve Tour offered by Living Dreams Mexico also includes a visit to the Punta Laguna Wild Monkey Reserve. In addition to a relaxed bike ride and a guided archaeological excursion to the Nohoch Mul site, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty and encounter wildlife, including the native spider and howler monkeys, making for an unforgettable eco-adventure.

Tulum: The City on the Cliff

Tulum stands out among the Mayan ruins due to its breathtaking location along the coast of the Caribbean Sea. Perched on a cliff, the ancient city offers stunning views and easy access to some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches. Unlike inland sites, Tulum was a vital port city for maritime trade, connecting the Yucatán Peninsula with Central America.

Tulum is one of the Mayan Ruins closest to your resort. A couple standing together, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea at Tulum, with the iconic ancient temple perched on a cliff to their left. The bright, clear sky and lush greenery surrounding the ruins create a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.

The Dream Tulum Excursion invites guests to explore the rich history of Tulum. This iconic port city played a significant role during the late post-classic period of the Mayan civilization. After a guided tour of the ruins, visitors enjoy a private underground river experience, away from the crowds.

Small group excursions of Tulum are available every Saturday and Wednesday. They entail visits to Tulum, a secret underground river, and the opportunity to swim with turtles.

Can You Visit Mayan Ruins From Cozumel?

If you’re staying in Cozumel, visiting Mayan ruins on the mainland is easy. Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itza are accessible with a short ferry to Playa del Carmen and a scenic drive. Living Dreams Mexico offers guided tours from the ferry terminal. As a result, we are making it simple to enjoy a Mayan adventure during your stay.

If you’re on a cruise to Cozumel, you can explore the Tulum ruins and a nearby cenote with Living Dreams Mexico. The tour includes a quick ferry to Playa del Carmen and a drive to the ruins, allowing plenty of time to return to your ship.

A woman snorkeling underwater in the Caribbean Sea, waving at the camera while swimming above a large starfish on the sandy ocean floor. The clear, blue water highlights the vibrant underwater scene.

While Tulum is accessible, other sites like Coba and Chichen Itza are too far to visit within the time constraints of a cruise stop, ensuring you make it back to Cozumel on time.

If you’re not interested in leaving Cozumel, Living Dreams Mexico offers an alternative option to snorkel and visit the famous El Cielo, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. This snorkeling tour is a perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of the island, with special rates available for cruise ship visitors. For more details on this experience, you can check out the Dream Cozumel Island Snorkeling Tour here.

Which Mayan Ruins to Visit From Costa Mujeres?

From Costa Mujeres, travelers have easy access to several Mayan ruins, including Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itza. As a matter of fact, Costa Mujeres is about 30 minutes farther than Cancun, making day trips to these sites still convenient. Coba offers a quieter, less touristy experience, while Chichen Itza is a must-see for history lovers.

For travelers based in Costa Mujeres or Cancun, an alternative to visiting the distant ruins is exploring the El Rey archaeological site and the Mayan Museum in the hotel zone of Cancun. This tour can be paired with a photo session at the iconic Delfines Beach and an exciting experience on a clear boat. It’s a convenient way to immerse yourself in Mayan history without traveling far and enjoy some of Cancun’s best beaches and attractions.

A group of four friends sitting on a clear boat in the middle of the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. They are smiling and posing for the camera under a bright, sunny sky, enjoying the crystal-clear water around them.

Visiting Other Ancient Sites in Mexico

Colorful hot air balloon soaring above the Teotihuacan Valley, with the Pyramid of the Sun visible in the background. The vibrant balloon floats over lush greenery and small buildings, set against a clear blue sky on a bright, sunny day.

For travelers looking to explore beyond the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico City offers a wealth of fascinating archaeological sites. One of the highlights is Teotihuacan, the awe-inspiring “City of the Gods,” which predates the Maya yet shares many cultural influences with civilizations throughout Mesoamerica. Teotihuacan’s vast pyramids, temples, and avenues are a must-see for history enthusiasts. In addition to Teotihuacan, Mexico City is home to numerous other significant locations, including the Tula Atlantean statues and the Templo Mayor, where you can delve deep into Aztec history.

To enhance your visit, consider booking with Living Dreams Mexico, where you’ll find a variety of guided excursions, including private tours that focus on cultural immersion. Whether it’s a sunrise tour of Teotihuacan, a deep exploration of the historic district, or a food tour through the markets with a showdown with the Luchadores, these tours provide personalized experiences that are both educational and enjoyable.

You can learn more about the available tours and options at Mexico-City.tours.

Why Choose a Guided Tour?

A certified guide offers more than just convenience; they transform your visit into a true cultural exploration. Their expertise reveals knowledge beyond the visible ruins, explaining the Mayans’ advanced understanding of astronomy, mathematics, and architecture. Guides interpret intricate carvings and murals, unlocking symbolic meanings often missed by casual visitors. They share stories of powerful rulers, the rise and fall of cities, and the religious practices that shaped Mayan society. This rich context turns each ruin into a vivid connection to a lost civilization.

Conclusion

The Yucatán Peninsula offers a variety of Mayan ruins, each with its own charm and significance. For those in Cancun, El Rey is a convenient local option, while Tulum (88 miles), Coba (98 miles), and Chichen Itza (140 miles) are ideal for day trips.

From Playa del Carmen, travel times are shorter, making it a great base for excursions to Tulum and Coba. Visitors staying in Tulum can easily explore the nearby ruins, with Coba just 45 minutes away.

Whether for a quick visit or a deeper dive into history, these sites are within reach. Exploring the Mayan ruins is a journey through time. With our expert guides, you’ll appreciate the advanced knowledge, artistry, and spirituality of the ancient Maya.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Our team is here to assist you. We’ll work together to make your day with us the best day of your vacation.