A Guide To The Best Mayan Ruins Near Costa Maya

Costa Maya stretches 60 miles along Mexico's southeastern coast. Few people explore this part of the country. But those who do can enjoy the gorgeous, unspoiled beaches and excellent snorkeling or diving. Our favorite thing about this little corner of Mexico is the uncrowded, extraordinary Mayan ruins.

Embark on a journey to discover the intriguing history of the Mayans. In the 4th and 5th centuries, they reigned over Costa Maya and many other parts of Mexico and Central America, leaving behind cities and traditions that have stood the test of time. Immerse yourself in this fascinating culture by visiting one of the Mayan ruins during your vacation. This unique experience, filled with mystery and wonder, will captivate you.

Here's everything you need to know about the best Mayan ruins near Costa Maya.

What We'll Cover In This Guide:

• How Far Are the Mayan Ruins from the Costa Maya Cruise Port?
• Overview of the Mayans in Costa Maya
• Costa Maya Mayan Ruins Comparison Table
• Best Mayan Ruins Excursions from Costa Maya
• FAQs About Visiting the Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya

How Far Are the Mayan Ruins from the Costa Maya Cruise Port?

To reach the Mayan ruin sites, you'll need to venture a little way inland. Leave those gorgeous beaches for a while, and you can experience the history and culture of the famous Mayans - it'll be worth the effort. The terrain around the ruins can be rugged, and the climate can be hot and humid, so be sure to pack accordingly.

It takes between one and two hours to travel from the cruise port to the main Mayan ruins Costa Maya has to offer. Chacchoben is conveniently located ~43 miles inland from the Costa Maya cruise port. Kohunlich, another popular destination, is further inland and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach from the port.

The best way to make the journey if you're on a cruise is on an organized Mayan Ruins excursion. That way, you'll benefit from a knowledgeable guide, air-conditioned transportation, and a back-to-ship guarantee, ensuring a worry-free and enjoyable experience. If you're visiting Bacalar on your own, you can drive directly to the ruins and find a local guide to show you around.

Overview of the Mayans in Costa Maya

But who are the Mayans? The Maya population was once the most influential group in eastern Mexico. They controlled large sections of the country for hundreds of years, beginning in 750 BC, when they constructed the first large Mayan cities.

The Mayans are famous for their advanced writing system, which was superior to that of any other population at the time. They also created enduring pieces of art and developed well-known astronomical charts.

For example, who can forget the scare in 2012 when, for a short time, the world thought the Mayans had predicted the impending end of the world?
One of the Maya's most long-lasting legacies is the influential cities they built. The most well-known Mayan towns in the Yucatan Peninsula are Chichen Itzá, Tulum, and Cobá. But the southern coast of Costa Maya also has its fair share of Mayan ruins that are worth exploring.

Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya

Before exploring each site in detail, here's a quick comparison of the top Mayan ruins near Costa Maya—so you can easily see how far they are, what makes each special, and which one might fit best into your day in port.

Costa Maya Mayan Ruins Comparison Table

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Chacchoben is the easiest Mayan ruins site to reach from the Costa Maya cruise port—just about an hour inland. Hidden deep in the jungle, it's one of those rare spots that feels both ancient and alive. The city once thrived around 300 AD, and even now, you can still see hints of the red paint that once covered its temples.

Bring good walking shoes and plenty of water—the jungle humidity can sneak up on you. You'll wander past towering temples, sun-soaked plazas, and maybe spot howler monkeys or iguanas along the paths.

Chacchoben isn't just beautiful—it's popular for good reason. According to Mexico's Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH), more than 29,000 people visited in January 2025 alone, making it the second most-visited archaeological site in Quintana Roo.

Kohunlich Mayan Ruins

If you're up for a real jungle adventure, Kohunlich is your spot. It's about a 90-minute drive from the Costa Maya cruise port, winding through lush rainforest roads where few tourists venture. The site spreads across 21 acres, and archaeologists say there are still around 200 mounds hidden under the trees — meaning you're walking through history that's still being uncovered.

The highlight here is the Temple of the Masks, where huge carved faces—each over 1,500 years old—still stare out from the stone walls. Unlike busier sites, Kohunlich is peaceful. You might have whole temples to yourself, surrounded by birdsong and thick jungle air, providing a serene and awe-inspiring glimpse into the ancient Mayan city.

Bring insect repellent, sturdy shoes, and a bit of curiosity. There's limited shade, but the payoff is incredible: a quiet, awe-inspiring glimpse into a Mayan city that nature never exceptionally returned.

Dzibanche Mayan Ruins

For travelers craving something truly off the beaten path, Dzibanché is a hidden gem. It's about a two-hour drive from Costa Maya's cruise port, tucked deep in the jungle where few crowds ever reach. Once a powerful Mayan capital founded around 300 BC, the city stretched across nearly 40 square kilometers—and even more when you count its farmlands. Standing among its towering temples, it's easy to imagine the scale of the ancient kingdom that once thrived here.

Dzibanché feels different from other sites—lush, quiet, and alive with butterflies. You can still climb some of the main temples, like the Temple of the Captives and the Temple of the Owl, for incredible views over the canopy.

Bring snacks, water, and your camera—this is one of the few ruins where you might have the entire place to yourself.

Best Mayan Ruins Excursions from Costa Maya

An excursion is the best way to access any of the Costa Maya's Mayan ruins. We understand that time is tight on a cruise, and you need to be back at a specific time. With our [Costa Maya Mayan ruins excursions], our tour operators prioritize punctuality and understand the importance of keeping to schedule. Plus, our back-to-ship guarantee ensures you can enjoy your excursion without worrying about your watch.

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Excursion

On this Chacchoben Mayan ruins excursion, your bilingual tour guide will meet you outside the Costa Maya cruise port. You'll drive less than an hour to the Chacchoben ruins. Your guide will take you through the main buildings, including temples and plazas. They'll tell you what the buildings were used for and explain their cultural significance. As you walk around the site, be ready to spot spider monkeys high in the trees, as well as loads of native Mexican birds. This excursion is a great way to immerse yourself in this atmospheric Mayan city, imagining the town at the height of its power 1,500 years ago.

One of our favorite ways to experience Chacchoben is to pair it with a visit to the famed Bacalar Lagoon in a combo excursion—experience two incredible sights in just one day.

Kohunlich Mayan Ruins Excursion

On this excursion to the Kohunlich Mayan ruins, you'll be collected from right outside the Costa Maya cruise port. Transportation to the ruins site is included and takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, you'll get to explore every corner of the site with an expert English-speaking tour guide. As well as learning about the Mayans that lived there, you'll also check out the plants and animals that call this fascinating Mayan city home.

Best Mayan Ruins Combo Tours

So, you've decided you want to visit some Mayan ruins while you're in Costa Maya, but also want to experience another activity? We have the ideal solution - join a combo tour! There's a great selection of two and even three-activity excursions that are perfect for cruisers. You can combine ruins and snorkeling. Or visit a modern Mayan village after seeing the ancient Mayan cities. Or, you can spend some time relaxing on the beach after exploring the Mayan ruins. There are so many combinations, you're sure to find one that's ideal.

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon

Chacchoben Mayan ruins and Bacalar Lagoon are among the best attractions in the Costa Maya region. That's why this excursion, which lets you visit both places, is one of our most popular. You'll be collected at the Costa Maya cruise port and taken first to the Chacchoben Mayan ruins. Explore this captivating city with your expert tour guide. Take in the impressive buildings and learn about the influential Maya who lived there.

Then, you'll move on to Bacalar, the 'Lagoon of Seven Colors'. Here you'll have time to relax, swim, and experience the top sights around the Bacalar lagoon. On this affordable combo tour, you'll be kayaking on Bacalar. However, you can also go on a combo that includes a 2-hour boat tour around the best parts of this vast lake. See the many shades of blue at Cenote Esmerelda and the world's oldest organisms - stromatolites - at Cocalitos. You can also swim in the deepest part of the lake at Black Cenote, and retrace the footsteps of pirates at Pirate Channel.

FAQs About Visiting the Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya

Are the Mayan ruins in Costa Maya suitable for kids?

Yes, most sites are great for families. Chacchoben is easiest with short paths and shaded areas. Older kids love Kohunlich or Dzibanché for their jungle feel and open spaces to explore. Just bring water, sunscreen, and snacks for a fun, easy adventure.

When is the best time of year to visit the Costa Maya ruins?

The best months are November through April, when the weather is dry and comfortable. Morning tours are calmer and less crowded. Even during summer, you can still enjoy the ruins—start early and carry plenty of water for the humid jungle air.

Which ruins in Costa Maya are less crowded and offbeat?

Kohunlich and Dzibanché are the most peaceful. They're farther inland, so fewer tour buses reach them. Suppose you want a quiet, authentic experience surrounded by jungle sounds and local wildlife. In that case, these two ruins feel like discovering an ancient city hidden in nature.

Can I climb the temples at the Mayan ruins in Costa Maya?

Yes, but only at specific sites. At Dzibanché, visitors can still climb several temples for incredible jungle views. Climbing is restricted at Chacchoben and Kohunlich to protect the structures. Always follow posted signs and local guide instructions for safety and preservation.

Are the roads and transport to ruins from Costa Maya safe?

Yes, the routes are generally safe and well-traveled by tour groups daily. Roads are paved but narrow in places, so organized tours or private drivers are best. They provide air-conditioned transport, local knowledge, and peace of mind for getting back to your ship on time.

In a nutshell…

Every journey starts with a single step — so why not make yours one to remember? This destination has a way of capturing your heart with every view, flavor, and experience. Whether you crave adventure, culture, or pure relaxation, the memories you'll make here are worth every moment.

So, are you ready to discover it for yourself? Start planning today and let your next great story begin.