Chichén Itzá, Tulum & Cobá: Following the Mayan Mysteries
Our budget room (150 pesos) became an adventure itself – we shared it with two friendly geckos, creatures the Maya considered household protectors. That evening, we attended Chichén Itzá’s light show. While the production was underwhelming, the starry sky (visible thanks to minimal light pollution) took our breath away. This was the same sky under which Mayan astronomers made their celestial observations!
Chichén Itzá: Where Ball Games Were Life and Death
The archaeological site entrance fee (95 pesos) buys you a time machine to Mayan civilization. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the best-preserved postclassic Maya city (10th-15th century). The pok-ta-pok ball court stunned us – at 168 meters, it’s Mexico’s largest!
Fun Fact: The rubber ball weighed up to 4kg! The winning captain earned the honor… of being sacrificed. For the Maya, this was the highest distinction – a direct ticket to paradise.
Don’t miss:
- Tzompantli (skull wall) – chilling evidence of sacrificial practices
- Temple of Warriors with its distinctive columns
- El Caracol – the ancient astronomical observatory
Tulum: Mayan City Over Turquoise Waters
We reached Tulum via first-class bus (with AC!). Our 300-peso bungalow offered three beds and… a hammock. The first night was challenging, but we soon couldn’t imagine sleeping any other way in the tropical climate!
Tulum (meaning “wall” in Mayan) is the only fortified Mayan city and the sole coastal settlement. Its white walls contrast beautifully with Caribbean turquoise. Between the 13th-15th centuries, it flourished as a trade port exporting salt, honey, and jade.
Must see:
- El Castillo – cliff-top temple with paradise beach views
- Temple of the Frescoes with preserved paintings
- Swimming in the bay beneath the ruins – absolutely unique!
Cobá: Heart of the Jungle
From Tulum, we easily reached jungle-shrouded Cobá. Unlike other sites, you can climb Nohoch Mul – a 42-meter pyramid with rare rounded corners in Mayan architecture. The view over the green jungle ocean is unforgettable!
Fun Fact: Cobá connected to other cities via the Mayan world’s longest road network (sacbé) – one stretching 100km!
That evening, we toasted with mezcal containing “gusano” (worm). Contrary to myth, the worm doesn’t boost potency – this was a 1950s marketing gimmick!
Pro Tips:
- Rent a bike in Cobá (50 pesos) – the site is expansive
- Try Tulum’s pescadillas – fried fish tacos
- For perfect photos of Chichén Itzá, arrive at 8am before crowds
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