{"id":35113,"date":"2019-06-03T13:55:59","date_gmt":"2019-06-03T03:55:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/?p=35113&preview=true&preview_id=35113"},"modified":"2025-03-26T01:32:35","modified_gmt":"2025-03-25T14:32:35","slug":"best-ruins-in-mexico","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/best-ruins-in-mexico\/","title":{"rendered":"7 of Mexico’s best ruins, and how you can see them"},"content":{"rendered":"

You could spend a lifetime exploring Mexico\u2019s ancient ruins<\/a> and still not see them all.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Open air museums spanning the length and breadth of this fascinating country, no trip is complete without visiting at least one of these archaeological wonders.<\/p>\n

What are the differences between the ancient Mexican cultures?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Mesoamerican civilisations that developed in Mexico in pre-Columbian times had many cultural similarities \u2013 such as building temples and pyramids \u2013 but were distinct peoples. The Olmecs were found along the Gulf Coast around modern-day Veracruz, the Zapotecs were in the southern Oaxaca region, the Aztecs ruled much of central and southern Mexico, while the Mayas stretched over the south east, such as the Yucatan Peninsula and into Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras.<\/p>\n

EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES IN MEXICO NOW<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

Can I climb the ruins? <\/strong><\/h3>\n
\"The

Photo by Nathan Landers.<\/p><\/div>\n

Generally yes, although it depends on the site. Perhaps the best known, Chichen Itza, stopped allowing climbing several years ago due to a number of tourists falling and injuring themselves. If in doubt, always<\/em> ask before climbing.<\/p>\n

RELATED: 5 REASONS WHY MEXICO IS THE ULTIMATE SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATION<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>What do I need to be mindful of when visiting these sites? <\/strong><\/h3>\n

There will be a bit of walking and climbing involved, so bring water, sensible shoes, and some sun protection. These are historic and protected sites, so be respectful. Pay attention to any sign posts or guides telling you not to enter or climb an area \u2013 you\u2019ll be swiftly kicked out if you do something you\u2019re not supposed to.<\/p>\n

What are the best ruins to see?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

1. Calakmul<\/h3>\n