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As the much-anticipated Maya Train continues to launch in stages, the excitement for travelers is undoubtedly building as it opens up so many destinations to explore within the Yucatan Peninsula.
The first section to begin operating on December 15th was the route between Cancun and Campeche, and now that route will be extended with the inauguration of the Cancun to Palenque section, which will begin operating in just a couple of days.
With so much to see along the Maya Train route, it’s hard to decide what to see first, but we’ll highlight the top 7 sights to see along the Maya Train’s new Cancun to Palenque route, which includes eight additional stations.
Palenque Archeological Zone
The Palenque Archeological Zone is a massive site that is made up of Mayan ruins and a national park, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
At the archeological site, you’ll find well-preserved sculptures and ruins dating back to the Classic period.
The size of the site compares to the famous Chichen Itza and is well worth visiting.
@emilie.nymand While there are many spectacular archeological sites around Mexico, Palenque is not to be missed 🇲🇽 #palenque #chiapas #mexico #mexicotiktok #mexicotravel #travel #traveltiktok #visitmexico #ruins ♬ Soledad y el Mar (feat. Los Macorinos) – Natalia Lafourcade
Magic Town Of Candelaria
The town of Candelaria, located in the state of Campeche, is one of Mexico’s Magic Towns.
It earned this distinction because of its abundant nature which includes the Rio Candelaria, which is a river known for its perfect conditions for water activities.
The town is also home to the El Tigre archeological site, three waterfalls, and the Pedro Baranda springs, giving visitors plenty to explore on an ecotourism adventure.
@tuislacarmen Salto Grande, Candelaria #campeche #candelaria #mexico #drone #dji #mexico #djimexico #djimini3pro #mini3pro ♬ sonido original – TuIslaCarmen
Agua Azul Waterfalls
One of the most fascinating sights to see along the Cancun to Palenque Maya Train route is the Agua Azul waterfalls.
Named so for the amazing turquoise blue color of the water, these waterfalls are located within the Mexican rainforest.
They are perfect for swimming due to the warm waters and cascading falls.
Visitors can also hike around the waterfalls to find hidden spots and different areas of the falls, making the site perfect for making a day out of it.
@noeemiegd Mon insta : noeemiegd 🇲🇽🌴 #mexico #chiapas #aguaazul ♬ Still Don't Know My Name – Labrinth
Usumacinta Canyon And River
Considered “the Grand Canyon of the Maya,” Usumacinta Canyon is located in the Mexican state of Tabasco.
Between the canyon lies the Usumacinta River, which translates to the “Sacred Monkey River,” a fitting name, as the canyon and the river are surrounded by jungle rainforest and it is not uncommon to see monkeys while floating along the river.
Tours are offered to explore this fascinating region that you will now be able to access thanks to the Maya Train.
@wayak.xuul.turism visitas guiadas para conocer el puente usumacinta donde pasará el tren maya en Boca del Cerro en Tenosique Tabasco México somos Wayak Xuul acompáñanos 9341290788 aventuras en el Edén de México 😁🌉🏞️🇲🇽✌🏽 #ríousumacinta #Tenosique #Tabasco #Mexico #Wayakaxuul ♬ Reflections on 52nd – AGM3
Calakmul Biosphere Reserve
The largest biosphere reserve in Mexico, Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to more than 50 communities.
The individual communities that make up the massive site are full of remnants of ancient Mayan cities.
The miles of land that make up the reserve are a fascinating exploration into Mayan jungle and forest land and is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna.
@discovery #Calakmul was believed to have been primarily built between 600BC and 250AD, with a population of 50,000 during its peak 🗺️ #TravelTok ♬ team – favmusicvibes
Museo La Venta Park
Also located in Tabasco, Museo La Venta Park is much more than your average park.
The site is actually an outdoor museum that dates back to 1958 and is home to some fascinating sculptures that can be viewed along a trail.
The artifacts, located in the town of Villahermosa, are from the ancient Olmec civilization and offer a view into a little-known past of this region in Mexico.
@miriamsolisj Mucha historia y naturaleza ✈️🌳🌴☘️🌿
♬ original sound – 🎄Speed Audios🎄
Pomona Archeological Zone
The Pomona Archeological Zone may not be as well known as sites like Chichen Itza, Coba, or Ek Balam, but it is certainly worth a visit.
Located in Tabasco at the foot of the Chiapas Mountains, the site is home to some of its own impressive Mayan ruins.
There’s an onsite museum and multiple structures to explore on this little-known site along the Maya Train route.
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