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All about Mayapán on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico

Updated: February 12, 2025

Main Category: Day Trips

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Author: Tobias

Mayapán is an under-rated but amazing archaeological Mayan site which is reminiscent of Chichén Itzá. Mayapán is about 50km away from Mérida. The journey by car takes about 40min from the city center of Mérida and the place is most of the time tranquilly. The admission fee for foreign adults is about 65MXN. Different prices may apply for residents or children.

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Address:

Archaeological Site of Mayapan, Telchaquillo, Tecoh, Yucatán, Mexiko

Website:

Category:

Trip

Phone:

+52 999 913 4034

Distance:

50km from Mérida

Travel Time:

40min from Mérida

Admission:

Mex$ 65

Price Level:

Inexpensive

Since:

Around 1200

Google Rating:

average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 3047 votes, Ratings

Opening Hours:

• Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

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Mayapán

The Mayan ruins of Mayapán on the Yucatán Peninsula are a bit of an insider tip, or at least under-rated. The site is not huge and not as popular as many others, but it is a beautiful site, not far from Mérida, you can climb up the temples and have a beautiful view.


There are usually only a few other visitors on site and the entrance fee is only a fraction compared to Chichén Itzá or Tulum. As you can see, there are many good reasons for a visit.


The last great capital of the Maya


The walled city of Mayapán is considered the last great capital of the Maya culture in the Postclassic period (1200-1450 A.D.). Mayapán was surrounded by a 9 km long wall.


Twelve gates allowed access to the interior of the city. About 12,000 people lived within its 4 square kilometers, protected by the fortification.


Unlike earlier Maya cities, Mayapán had a dense urban layout with buildings closely packed together, reflecting its role as a political and religious center.


Today, you can still explore its impressive ruins, including temples, altars, and residential areas that offer insight into the daily life of its former inhabitants.


Important structures


Overall, more than 4,000 buildings have been found in that area. In the site and through the architecture you can observe the strong influence of Chichén Itzá, an example of this is the main building or better known as Castillo de Kukulkan, which is the same as Chichén Itzá, only smaller.


In the Central Plaza are the civic, administrative and religious buildings, as well as the residences of the ruling class. These are buildings built on foundations that have corridors with columns, temples and oratories with an altar at the back and a banquet on the sides.


Also representative are the round buildings, known as observatories and small sanctuaries. Mayapán was inhabited from the beginning of our era until the fall of the city around 1450 A.D. It is known that people lived around the site from the Preclassic and Early Classic periods (300 B.C. to 600 A.D.).


How do you get to Mayapán from Mérida?


You can reach Mayapán, about 50km south of Mérida, very well by car. Public transportation can be used as well. The bus from Merida to Mayapán leaves from the bus station "Terminal de Autobuses Noreste", Calle 67, No. 529 (Calle 67 x 50).


Buses leave about every hour and driving time by bus is around 1,5 hours. Be sure not to confuse the ruins of Mayapán ("Zona Archeologica de Mayapán") with the village of Mayapán, which is a different place.


Top 3 Mayan sites to visit


The Yucatán Peninsula is home to some of the most impressive Maya ruins, each offering a unique perspective on this ancient civilization. Whether you're interested in grand pyramids, coastal fortresses, or intricate carvings, these three sites should be at the top of your list:


  • Chichén Itzá: As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this site is famous for El Castillo, the grand pyramid that aligns with the sun during the equinox. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Maya history.

  • Tulum: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean, Tulum is one of the most scenic archaeological sites in Mexico. Once an important Maya trading port, it offers a fascinating mix of history and ocean views, making it a great spot for photos.

  • Uxmal: Known for its stunning Puuc-style architecture, Uxmal is one of the best-preserved Maya cities and much quieter than Chichén Itzá. The site is a favorite for those looking to explore Maya artistry in a more relaxed setting.


 
Figures about Mayan archaeological sites
Figures about Mayan archaeological sites
 

If you're looking for more information on Maya archaeological sites, along with essential tips and helpful advice, check out our page dedicated to them.

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Best Mérida Day Trips

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