Did you know archaeologists estimate that less than 10% of the ancient Mayan ruins believed to exist have actually been excavated? WOW! AND an even smaller percentage are regularly visited by tourists. That means there is so much more Mundo Maya for you to discover.
Why would you want to venture off the beaten path and make the extra effort to visit a lesser known ruin site? Because when exploring an ancient place where just you and nature are present you are overcome with a sense of mystery and adventure, perhaps a feeling similar to what the early explorers felt when they first laid eyes on these forgotten cities. This is an experience you will never have at the famous sites of Tulum and Chichen Itza. Another advantage is that because these ruins are visited by so few tourists, the chances for wildlife encounters are high. Tropical birds and even monkeys make these quiet ruins their home.
There are amazing archaeological sites right here in Quintana Roo that receive only a handful of ruin enthusiasts per day! Check out some of these ancient Mayan sites that you may not have heard of but are no less fantastic than those you have.
Explore Mayan Cities Reclaimed by Mother Nature
Chac Mool is located within the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve, about 1.5 hours south by boat from Punta Allen, on the Santa Rosa peninsula. Visits to this seldom seen archaeological site not only include a journey by boat over bays and through mangroves but also requires permission for entry from the landowner, Casablanca Fishing Lodge. Chac Mool is a small but interesting archaeological site, partially because of its remoteness, but also because of its strange similarities to Chichen Itza.
Chacchoben ruins are about 180 kilometers south of Tulum. These rarely visited Mayan ruins are surrounded by breathtaking flora such as towering mahogany trees, enormous cohune palms, strangler figs, Spanish moss and the hanging tentacles of banyan trees. The jungle setting of these ruins is beautiful and primal.
Mayapan, meaning Banner of the Mayas, is considered the last great Maya capital, and its ancient grandeur is still evident in its remaining buildings. Painted murals showing scenes of war are still visible. Mayapan archaeological site is located 47km southeast of Merida in the state of Yucatan.
Muyil is located only 25 kilometers south of the Pueblo of Tulum. This spectacular site is a treat so many tourists miss out on. A jungle path leads from the ruins to a wide lagoon and an observation tower gives a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area.
“I go to nature for my inspiration. I follow in building, the principles which nature has used in its domain”
– Frank Lloyd Wright