Nestled among the lush jungle, Cobá is an ancient Mayan city that has witnessed an intriguing past. However, it hasn’t been alone in this journey through time. Indeed, there are many archaeological sites near Coba where the rich history of the Mayan civilization comes to life.
From the majestic ruins of Tulum to the splendor of Chichen Itza, each site tells a story. So if you’re in the surroundings of this mystical town, don’t forget to add them to your itinerary – here are some of the best!
Ruins to visit near Coba
Archaeological sites near Cobá that you must visit
1. Tulum, the archaeological site by the sea
We begin our journey with Tulum, a Mayan jewel only 47.9 km from Cobá and 48 minutes away. It is characterized by being located on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea, which is why it gets its name.
Since it was formerly known as “zama”, which in Mayan means morning or sunrise, you can contemplate this spectacular view from its incredible monuments. Offering visitors a unique experience that combines the greatness of the Mayan civilization with the natural beauty of the coast.
As the main attraction, you will find the Castillo; the tallest and oldest of all its structures, which also served as a reference point for navigation and today remains a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the Maya.
You will also discover buildings such as the Temple of the Descending God, where Mayan iconography comes to life, and the Temple of the Frescoes, which houses murals that still preserve their original color.
Important facts you should know about Tulum
- Distance: Tulum is located 47.9 km from Cobá.
- Travel time: Getting to Tulum from Cobá will take you approximately 48 minutes.
- Hours: Monday to Sunday from 08:00 h to 17:00 h, last access 15:30 h.
- How to get there: The entrance to Tulum is located at km. 230 of the Chetumal – Cancun federal highway. You can access through federal highway 307.
- Entrance fee: According to its official website, the entrance fee at the INAH ticket office is $95 MXN.
2. Muyil, the ruins inside a nature reserve
Just 20 minutes from Tulum, Muyil is another archaeological site near Cobá that you can’t miss. Unlike the first one, this one stands out for being a hidden treasure in terms of tourism.
Although it is smaller than Tulum, Muyil is just as impressive. Stretching over 38 hectares of jungle, it offers visitors the chance to explore fascinating vestiges, platforms and religious structures.
For example, as you go along, you will discover structures such as the Castillo, an imposing building of 5 sections and 18 meters high, as well as the Entrance Plaza and Temple 8, both civic-religious centers.
Another fact that makes it so special is that it is located in the middle of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve; a natural paradise declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1987. And, as you would expect, it has an incredible diversity of flora and fauna that you can explore on tours.
Important facts you should know about Muyil
- Distance: Muyil is located 69.4 km from Cobá.
- Travel time: Getting to Muyil from Cobá will take you approximately 1 h 7 minutes.
- Hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:00 h to 15:00 h.
- How to get there: Muyil can be accessed by Federal Highway 307 (Reforma Agraria-Puerto Juárez) and the exact entrance is on the federal highway.
- Entrance fee: According to the official website, the entrance fee is $75 MXN.
3. Ek Balam, the most well-preserved Mayan city
Only 85.3 km from Cobá, Ek Balam stands out for being one of the archaeological sites with the best preserved buildings and structures in the entire Yucatán peninsula. In addition, it is also one of the few sites that still allows you to climb its monuments.
Allowing us to explore the most impressive area of these ruins; the Acropolis, a building with an impressive view of the Mayan jungle. Other areas you should visit are the oval palace, the twin pyramids and of course the ball game structure.
If after touring the entire site you still have energy left over, then we recommend you continue your adventure discovering incredible cenotes. In this case your best option is the Xcanche cenote, located next to this famous archaeological site, ideal to refresh your visit!
As you can see, in your search for archaeological sites near Cobá, Ek Balam presents itself as an essential stop. Believe us, its authenticity, natural beauty and rich history will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Important facts you should know about Ek Balam
- Distance: 85.3 km from Cobá.
- Travel time: The trip from Coba to Ek Balam is approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes.
- Hours: Open from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 17:00 pm, last access at 16:00 pm.
- How to get there: You can get to the archaeological site of Ek Balam by taking Highway No. 295, which goes to Tizimín. Afterward, you must take a detour to Santa Rita, in this town, take the north access and continue about 2 km until you reach another detour that will lead you directly to Ek Balam.
- Entrance fee: According to the official website, the entrance fee is $95 MXN. However, the Government of Yucatán applies an additional fee of $441 for foreigners and $121 for nationals.
4. Chichén Itzá, a wonder of the world
It is impossible to talk about archaeological sites without mentioning Chichen Itza, one of the most visited sites in Mexico, and also declared a World Heritage Site since 1988.
Which has also captivated the world with its pyramid of Kukulcan, the iconic temple declared Wonder of the Modern World, that due to its architecture and astronomical importance, has become very popular. Especially during spring and autumn equinoxes.
While the pyramid is its main attraction, it is not the only one. For a more complete experience, visit the Ball Court, the Sacred Cenote, the area of the Thousand Columns and the Observatory.
Important facts you should know about Chichén Itzá
- Distance: Located 110.6 km from Cobá.
- Travel time: Getting to Chichén Itzá from Cobá will take you 1 h 20 minutes.
- Hours: Open from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 16:00 pm.
- How to get there: You can get there by taking highway No. 180 to the town of Pisté.
- Entrance fee: According to the official website, the entrance fee is $95 MXN. However, the Government of Yucatán applies an additional fee of $524 for foreigners and $182 for nationals.
5. Yaxunah, a Mayan jewel waiting to be rediscovered
Yaxunah is another archaeological site near Coba, which, like Muyil, is hidden from “big tourism”. Therefore, it is the ideal place to escape the crowds and get away from the routine.
Here, the Mayan vestiges, although partially covered by nature, emanate a unique energy that will transport you to the past. From pyramids to ceremonial plazas, every corner tells a fascinating story.
Some of the most important monuments you will come across while touring are a palace full of Maya reliefs, a huge acropolis, an observatory, multiple temples and even a small market and ball game site.
Important facts you should know about Yaxunah
- Distance: Located 127.3 km from Coba.
- Travel time: Getting to Yaxunah from Cobá will take you approximately 1 h 40 minutes.
- Hours: Open from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 17:00 p.m.
- How to get there: You can get to Yaxunah by taking the Chemax – Cobá highway that goes to Cancún – Valladolid. Then take the Gulf Coast/Mexico Highway 180 in Yucatán.
- Entrance fee: Unlike other archaeological sites near Cobá, this site is in charge of the ejidatarios of the town of Yaxunah. So, currently, the entrance fee is $50 MXN 7 days a week.
Mayan Train stations and stops closest to archaeological sites
To facilitate your archaeological adventure, the Mayan Train offers convenient access to all of these archaeological sites near Cobá. Here are the train stations and stops closest to each of them.
1. Tulum and Tulum Airport, Quintana Roo
This incredible Magical Town, which has become more and more attractive thanks to the new airport, has 2 stations; Tulum town and Tulum Airport.
The first is located just 10 minutes by car from its famous ruins, and the second is 20 km from the center of town.
2. Leona Vicario, Quintana Roo
Located in the municipality of Puerto Morelos, Leona Vicario is the closest stop to the archaeological site of Ek Balam. Leaving you 1 hour and 40 minutes from the site, or a distance of 133.4 km.
3. Nuevo Xcán, Quintana Roo
In the case of Nuevo Xcan station, you can find the archaeological site of Ek Balam 1 hour and 25 minutes from there and the ruins of Muyil 1 hour and 42 minutes away.
4. Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo
This station is located 51 minutes from the majesty of Muyil, covering a distance of 73.0 km.
5. Valladolid, Yucatán
Located in the state of Yucatán, Valladolid is the closest station to Ek Balam, located 27.8 km or 33 minutes away.
6. Chichén Itzá, Yucatán
As its name indicates, this station brings you close to Chichén Itzá and also places you only 23.8 km and 30 minutes from Yuxanah.
Please note that each of these travel hours are rough estimates, the operation of the Mayan Train could be less or more.
In summary, the archaeological sites near Cobá offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the Maya civilization.
If you are ready to embark on this exciting adventure, we invite you to consider Aldea Coba, a Boutique Hotel in the Mayan jungle, as your starting point. Stay with us and immerse yourself in the charm of the Mayan culture before exploring these amazing archaeological sites.
To make a reservation, please call our direct line 998 342 0198, or if you prefer, visit our website. And that’s it, you’re ready to start a journey through time begins!
