Currently the archaeological zone of Cobá is one of the most emblematic wonders of the entire region, since it’s one of the oldest Mayan cities it has great artistic and historic value.
This is why if you’re exploring the Yucatan Peninsula, we suggest you mark on your itinerary a tour of this great historical site. But first, so you can have a better experience, here is everything you need to know before your visit to the Mayan city of Cobá.
What you need to know before visiting Cobá
1. Where is Coba?
The archaeological zone of Cobá is located in the town of the same name and is characterized as a jewel within nature. One of the greatest advantages of this Mayan city is its location. It’s between the magical town of Tulum and Valladolid, thus having several close attractions to visit.
So you can enjoy your trip to the fullest, don’t forget to consult this guide to know how to get to Cobá from various tourist points in the region.
2. What does Coba mean?
A very interesting fact about the Mayan city of Cobá is that it’s closely related to its surroundings, since its name represents the various water sources around the town.
Within Cobá there are five magnificent lakes besides splendid cenotes, so if we were to translate its name “kob – ha” the most accurate term would be “turbid water”.
3. Is the archaeological zone of Cobá open (2022)?
Last year the INAH declared the archaeological zone of Cobá as “closed” to the public, informing that it would be part of the Program for the Improvement of Archaeological Zones (Promeza) and that because of this, the ruins of Cobá would not be open until further notice for conservation work.
However, even though the press and INAH’s official website claim that the ruins are not open, the reality is that if you visit Cobá you can explore this marvelous Maya vestige without any problem; this is because the area is now managed by the Maya community of Cobá.
So the answer is yes, you can still visit it!
4. How much does the entrance to Cobá cost?
The cost of entry to the archaeological site is $100.00 mxn and in case you need to enter the parking lot, it has a tariff of $60.00 mxn, which if it is to be compared with other archaeological zones in the region, its cost is one of the cheapest.
You can visit Cobá every day of the week from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Although the best time to go is in the morning from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.
5. The three groups of the Mayan city of Cobá
The Cobá ruins have an area of almost 70 km² and are divided into three groups, all with various monuments that are worth exploring. The first group is known as the Cobá Group, the second as the Nohoch Mul group, and the third as the Macanxoc group.
Each of these groups have an average distance of 1 to 2 km between each other, so although you can explore freely, it is recommended to go on a guided tour.
6. Explore the largest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula
One of the attractions that you cannot miss is the Pyramid of Nohoch Mul, located in the group of the same name. This is easily the main structure of the archaeological zone and is known for being the largest pyramid in the entire Yucatan Peninsula, with 120 steps and 42 meters high.
Undoubtedly one of the most imposing monuments in the state.
7. The most famous stela of Cobá
It is very likely that you have already heard of this great Mayan vestige, but it is true that many are unaware of its location. We are talking about the number one stela of Cobá, best known for the Mayan prophecy about the end of the world.
This wonderful stela is found within the Macanxoc group and what it really represents is the end of an era for the Mayans, which would happen on December 21, 2012.
8. Discover the mysterious paths of Sac-be
Something that you will find around the entire archaeological site are the Sac-be roads, or white roads, which were used in ancient times by the Mayans as a way to do commerce in Cobá, they consist of a network of roads that connects various Mayan cities with each other.
In Cobá, there are currently 45 discovered Sac-be roads, but it is thought that there are many more that are still hidden in the Mayan jungle.
9. What is the best way to tour Cobá?
As mentioned in the previous paragraphs, the Mayan city of Cobá is a very extensive site, so doing the tour by walking can be a bit complex. But don’t worry, there are two excellent options that will allow you to get to know the site without any problem.
The first is to make the visit on a bicycle and the second is to take a tricycle, which are available inside the archaeological site and have a price of $150.00 mxn, except for the third area where they charge a fee of $250.00. mxn.
This way you will find the journey much more satisfying, they not only offer you more comfort but they also allow you to enjoy nature as much as you like, since you will have the freedom to explore every corner.
10. How to plan a visit to Cobá?
Now that you know all the important facts about Cobá, you are ready to start your journey. It should be noted that inside the town there are many other activities that you can do, so we recommend you get a room in Cobá.
At Aldea Cobá, Luxury Boutique Hotel, we help you plan the best trip of your life, take advantage of your visit and purchase the private tour to Cobá with us. We also remind you that inside and outside the hotel you can enjoy experiences such as massages, cultural excursions and much more.
Get more information through our direct line 998 402 1130 or through our website.
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