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The Ancient Mayan Ruins of Coba
Coba, Mexico
Climbing to the top of an ancient pyramid is more difficult than you think. It’s also why the Mayan Ruins of Coba are one of my favorite archaeological sites in the Yucatan.
Archaeologists believe Coba was an incredibly important city for the Maya people. However due to its remote location, the site is not as popular with tourists as other Mayan ruins.
But there are many reasons to visit the city of white roads.
Because Coba doesn’t see as much tourism as places like Chichen Itza or Tulum, so you can actually still climb some of the structures for a totally different and unique perspective.
La Iglesia Structure
Rent a Bicycle to Ride the Sacbes
Overgrown Ancient Ruins
Exploring Mayan Ruins Of Coba
Coba’s claim to fame is the largest network of stone causeways in the ancient Mayan world, called (white roads). Over 50 of these roads have been discovered at the site, with 16 of them open to the public.
The raised stone pathways connect clusters of residential areas to the main pyramid area of Nohoch Mul and small lakes used as a water supply nearby. There are three ways to explore the ruins along these roads.
Mysteriously no one really knows how the Maya transported goods along these roads. While scientists believe the Maya knew about the existence of the wheel, there’s no evidence they actually used them.
One of my favorite reasons to visit Coba is that it isn’t as excavated as other sites, so you feel like you’re wandering through a forest, with many structures still covered in trees.
Ixmoja Pyramid (Nohoch Mul Group)
Climbing the Pyramid
View from the Top
Climbing The Pyramid
The largest pyramid at Coba is called , part of the Nohoch Mul group of buildings. The pyramid is 42 meters (138 feet) tall and was the heart of the city. Unlike other Maya sites, you can still climb this one, if you dare!
The 120 stone steps are much steeper than they look…
This is why there’s a thick rope in the middle for safety. But the view from the top is totally worth the climb. A light breeze cools you off from the summit while gazing at the lush jungle landscape stretching out in all directions.
Plus, there aren’t many places where you can climb a Mayan pyramid anymore. As a site gets more popular and tourism increases, authorities eventually restrict climbing to preserve structures and reduce accidents.
Coba is a Huge Site
Trees Growing from Walls
Pyramid of the Painted Lintel
History Of Coba
Coba is estimated to have had a population of over 50,000 at its peak. There are many tall stone carved monuments at the complex, called . Some stelae here depict women, suggesting the city had many female rulers.
There are two well-preserved ball courts on the site too, used for playing , from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum. Colectivos (public taxi vans) are also an option, however you’ll have to change vans in Tulum.
Renting a car is the most flexible and allows you to visit cenotes.
Or, if you’re a fan of motorcycles, you can on YouTube)
More Information
Location: Coba, Mexico
Total Cost: 65 pesos ($4 USD) entry fee
Motorcycle Rental: Harley Adventures
Useful Notes: It gets hot during the day at Coba, so visiting early morning or late afternoon is best. Less people too. You can explore on foot but I highly recommend renting a bicycle. The complex is very large!
Recommended Guidebook: Lonely Planet Yucatan
Suggested Reading: The Maya: Ancient Peoples & Places
Have you ever visited the Mayan ruins of Coba before?
This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.
Source: expertvagabond.com