The world is full of ancient wonders–many can spend their entire lives trying to visit them. But when it comes to awesome ancient ruins, you don’t have to travel around the globe. Just head south to Mexico where Mayan pyramids, Aztec temples and treasure houses of former Colombian cities are waiting.
You may have heard of the Mayans, who ruled and still lived in southern Mexico and Central America. You might even know one or two things about the Aztecs, and the Aztec metropolis set the stage for today’s Mexico City. Iconic archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza and Teotihuacán are one of Mexico’s most popular attractions, but the country is home to dozens of other outstanding civilizations and incredible pyramids that help shape its ancient stories.
“The Mayans and the Aztecs are the two people who know the most, but you can’t ignore all the other wonderful cultures of being and building pyramids,” said Dr. Edwin Barnhart, director of the Mayan Expedition Center and a veteran archaeologist with more than 30 years of experience.
So let’s dive into Mexico’s deep cultural heritage and discover the top pyramids to visit in Mexico, from famous landmarks to hidden gems buried in the jungle.
Who was the ancient civilization of Mexico?
Before you get into the travel bucket list, let’s take a quick look at history. Olmecs are often considered to be the “maternal culture” of Central America. They flourished between 1600 B.C. and 350 B.C. and were the first to establish a major ritual center.
Next, the Mayans came, settled as early as 1500 BC, and reached their peak during the Classic period (250-900 BC). In the southwest, the Zapotec civilization, headquartered in modern Oaxaca, flourished from 700 BC to 1521 AD. These civilizations, as well as Toltecs, Mixtecs, Totonacs, Huastecs and others, have left behind huge temples, ritual platforms and Hispanic pyramids.
Today, Mexico has become home to 16 million natives representing 68 different ethnic groups, with cultural heritage living in these ancient structures.
1. El Castillo – Chichen Itza, Yucatán
Without the temples of El Castillo or Kukulcán, the list of famous pyramids in Mexico is complete. Located in the heart of Chichen Itza, this iconic Mayan pyramid is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven new wonders in the world. It was built as a cosmic calendar with 365 steps and solar lights that reveal the stairs screaming during the spring and fall equinoxes.
How to get there: Driving from Cancun or Riviera Maya (2.5 hours). Tour operators provide guides for full-day trips.
2. Temple of the Inscription – Palenque, Chiapas
Set in the jungle, Palenque is one of Mexico’s most fascinating Mayan ruins. Its crown jewel is a temple of inscriptions, and is home to the tomb of the great ruler Pakal.
“Pakal’s grave is a world-wide lens,” Barnhart said. “It changes our understanding of the Mayan royal family and burial customs.”
How to get there: The town of Palenque can now be reached by the new Tren Maya or the long-distance bus (ADO).
3. Pyramids of the Moon Sun and Pyramids – Teotihuacán, Mexico
Just outside Mexico City, Teotihuacán is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Mexico. Its origins are still under debate, but were once one of the largest cities in the world. Climb up the Pyramid of the Sun to enjoy the views, then explore the path of the Dead and the Pyramid.
How to get there: An hour’s drive from Mexico City or book a guided day trip.
4. The Great Pyramid of Holila – Puebla
The hills that look like Spanish churches are actually the largest pyramid in the world. Cholula’s great pyramid is wider than Giza’s great pyramid. Under Iglesia de Nuestra Señorade los Remedios, the dimensions of Aztec and the history of Aztec are hidden.
How to get there: Two hours drive from Mexico City, 20 minutes from Puebra.
5. The Magician’s Pyramid – Yucatan Uksmar
Uxmal is one of the most unique Mayan cities, known for its magician pyramids. Its smooth circular design is different from the stepped terraces at other sites. According to Legend, it was built overnight by a magical dwarf.
How to get there: 1 hour drive from Mérida; can be done by travel or by self-driving.
6. Structure 2 – Karakmoor, Kampic
This huge pyramid is hidden in the Karakmoor biosphere reserves, compared to the largest pyramid in the Mayan world. Few tourists take the tour, but those who do so get an immersive jungle experience and have the opportunity to climb Structure 2, one of Mexico’s tallest Mayan pyramids.
How to get there: Long distance Campeche + 43 miles of dirt road. Locals can provide guidance on transport on Ejido land.
7. ElTorre – Ek Balam, Yucatán
On the way to Chichin ITZA, make time for Ek Balam, one of the least known pyramids in Yucatán. The main pyramid El Torre has amazing stucco art and can still be climbed – which is rare today.
“The doorway carved like a monster’s mouth, with numbers in the eyes. This is probably one of the best works in Mayan art in the world,” Barnhart said.
How to get there: 2 hours from Cancun; 30 minutes from Valladolid.
8. MonteAlbán – Oaxaca
The Monte Albán Pyramids overlooking the city of Oaxaca provide history. The site is the main capital of Zapotec, which has been around for more than 1300 years and is filled with ladderly pyramids, squares and panoramic visions.
How to get there: 10 minutes by taxi or bus from central Oaxaca.
9.
El Tajín is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unusual wall nib, considered to be used as a calendar. The website feels really untouched, with relatively few visitors and a mysterious atmosphere.
How to get there: Four hours drive from Veracruz City. One-day tour.
