Although still little known, calakmulno Mexico, is one of the most important and largest Mayan archaeological sites in the country. In 2014 it was declared by UNESCO as Mixed Heritage of Humanity (due to its cultural and natural importance).
The 70km² site was discovered in 1931 by an American botanist who was exploring the sap to produce chewing gum. Despite its importance, the fact that excavations only began in 1993 explains why the park is still not part of every itinerary for those who come to Mexico.
VISIT TO THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF CALAKMUL
Calakmul is a municipality in the state of Campeche, a biosphere reserve and an archaeological site. Three things with the same name. The ruins are in a place where a large Mayan citywith an estimated population of 500 thousand people.
Just like today’s metropolises, researchers realized that there was a kind of metropolitan region in Calakmul, with the temples located in the central area and the thousands of houses spread throughout the surrounding area and even in other cities in the surrounding area.
Of the more than 600 ruins already excavated (it is estimated that there are more than 5 thousand), the main ones to visit are side by side, most around the Plaza Central. But to get there, from the park entrance, it takes a walk of about 2km.
Calakmul means “Two Mountains Together”, a reference to its two main temples (Temples 1 and 2), which have no names but are called by numbers.
O Temple 2 It is located in Plaza Central and is the most important and tallest temple in the Yucatán Peninsula, at 49m. Built in 550 BC, it took a thousand years to complete and was up to 60m tall.
Climbing these stairs is part of the visit. Brave the heat of the region and go up, as the view of the entire forest and two other temples is worth it (Temples 5 and 1). If you have to choose just one to climb, go here.
Just behind, on the other mountain that gives Calakmul its name, is the Temple 1the second tallest, at 47m and also imposing.
Foto via Shutterstock
The tour of Calakmul can be done in half a day, with or without a guide. In addition to the ruins, you will see animals such as monkeys and an endemic species of wild turkey. Don’t forget sunscreen, repellent and lots of water, as there are no snack bars or shops inside the archaeological site.
| Are you going to Mexico? Find the best price on Travel Insurance there Travel with peace of mind if there are any health problems, flight delays or cancellations. Enter the code ESSEMUNDOENOSSO5 to get an additional 5% discount |
HOW TO GET TO CALAKMUL
Calakmul is located about 140km from Campeche, capital of the state of the same name. As we said above, the archaeological site belongs to the municipality that bears its name, Calakmul. From the reserve entrance to the park parking lot it takes almost an hour by car.
You can visit on your own by car, but it takes 4h to 5h to travel from Campeche. O ideal is to sleep in the region so the trip isn’t so busy (see below). In the capital and neighboring cities, you can also find a day tour to Calakmul in practically all travel agencies.
Near here is Balamkaanother important archaeological site and also open to visitors.
Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 5pm
Tickets: 70 pesos* (can be purchased on the spot)
WHERE TO STAY
A good option for those who want to stay close to Calakmul and feel the energy of the jungle before even entering the protected area is the hotel The door. The cabins are made of wood, fully integrated into nature in a very rustic style, despite the comfort, such as a swimming pool and a very good quality restaurant.
The experience was very interesting, like spending most of the time disconnected (since there was only Wi-Fi at reception and the rooms didn’t have TVs). From there to the archaeological site it is 60km, it is the closest accommodation option. Look other hotel options in the region.
+ Discover the Mayan ruins of Balamkú
+ All tips for Campeche and the region
* Prices checked in May 2017
** The journalist visited the Campeche region at the invitation of the Mexico Tourist Board, but all opinions given here are personal and reflect his real experience.
Rafael Carvalho
A native of Minas Gerais, a fan of chicken with okra and good beer, he currently lives in São Paulo. He has a degree in Radio and TV, a postgraduate degree in Journalism and has worked with Digital Content for over 16 years. He has worked for companies such as SBT and Jovem Pan FM. Passionate about traveling, he founded Esse Mundo É Nosso and travels around Brazil and the world all year round, always looking for tips to share.
Are you going to travel? Book here with the best prices
When you book with our partners, you will find the best prices and even get discounts, in addition to helping our work. We receive a small commission and you don’t pay anything extra for it!
