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The Mexican Caribbean state of Quintana Roo is widely considered one of the richest historical regions in Mexico, where travelers can find abundant remnants of the Maya civilization. The history of the Maya society is an ancient one, dating back to 2000 BC. Travelers in Cancun, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya can find a wide range of museums, archeological sites, and ancient ruins where they can discover the historical and cultural legacy left behind by the Maya people.
Although nearly every city and town in Quintana Roo will have at least some Maya history, some areas, like Tulum, are home to more impressive ruins that attract hundreds and thousands of yearly visitors. We’ve rounded up the latest statistics to highlight the most visited Maya ruins found across the region.
Tulum Archeological Zone
More than 589,000 visitors have flocked to Tulum’s vast Archeological Zone in 2022. The site features an extensive collection of Maya history, as seen in the hundreds of ruins scattered around the area. Situated in the popular resort destination, it attracts tourists from all corners of the world due to its impressive size, the excellent condition of its well-preserved ruins, and good transport connections.
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Overall, Tulum is the third-most visited archeological site in Mexico, after Chichén Itzá in nearby Yucatán and Teotihuacán, in Mexico City. Although Tulum is known for its rich history, travelers can also enjoy some of the Mexican Caribbean’s best beaches and beachfront resorts, as well as venture into the depths of the city’s lush jungles. Access to Tulum’s Archeological Site costs around $4 per person.
Travelers have several options available to them to reach Tulum’s impressive archeological ruins. The fastest and easiest way to do so is by private transfer or taxi, but this may end up costing travelers a considerable amount depending on traffic. On the other hand, tourists can hop on an ADO bus, which takes a little over 2 hours, and costs approximately $12 per person.
Chacchoben Maya Ruins – Bacalar
Chacchoben’s archeological site is Quintana Roo’s second most visited archaeological site and one of the most impressive attractions near Bacalar, a picturesque resort town that is known for its bungalow-type accommodation. Aside from the destination’s tropical beaches, travelers can find one of Quintana Roo’s most visited archeological areas – which has welcomed over 80,000 travelers this year – and is home to dozens of ruins, countless historical treasures, and remnants of a past culture.
Situated some 29 miles south of Bacalar, Chacchoben is a must-see for history lovers as well as those that want to escape the hustle and bustle of Mexican Caribbean resort towns. Dating back to the year 300 BC, Chacchoben’s ruins were abandoned for a long time, covered in nature and vegetation. Nowadays, travelers can find a beautifully restored pyramid structure, as well as three monumental temples. Just like Tulum, the area is rich in flora and fauna, and travelers can spot unique species like White Cedar and Mahogany.
San Gervasio – Cozumel
Travelers in the Mexican Caribbean shouldn’t overlook San Gervasio, the region’s third most visited Maya archeological site. Located on the stunning tropical island of Cozumel, San Gervasio is the perfect day trip to soak in the island’s rich history.
Although the total visitors to San Gervasio are only a fraction of those that visit Tulum, an impressive 50,000 tourists have already set foot on its premises, and that number is expected to rise towards the end of the year.
An ancient hub of worship, visitors can find references to Maya beliefs and rituals, which often culminated in a pilgrimage to the ancient landmark. Nowadays, many of the ruins are preserved for the enjoyment of tourists.
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