Calakmul is a majestic Maya city in the southeast of Campeche. It flourished for more than 12 centuries and rivaled the other great capitals at Tikal and Palenque. It remains one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Mexico and the world.
Recognized as part of the Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, Calakmul stands out for more than 6,700 structures. Among these are pyramids, plazas, stelae and temples. But the city stands within the giant Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, the second largest tropical rain forest in the Americas. Only the Amazon is bigger.
Among the most impressive structures, one called is Structure II is a pyramid more than 45 meters high. From the top, visitors can can see the extensive green mantle of the jungle stretching all the way to the horizon.
Visiting Calakmul is an experience that combines archaeology, history, nature, and adventure. It\\\'s common to see toucan, howler monkeys, jaguars, ocellated turkey, and a tremendous variety of wildlife while touring the site.
Getting there
Calakmul is in the municipality of the same name. About 300 km southeast of the city of Campeche, and 90 km from Xpujil, the site stands on Federal Highway 186.
From the Calakmul Tren Maya station, a taxi takes about 90 minutes. Some shared combi-vans and taxis are usually waiting at the station.
From Xpujil, take a sign posted detour that leads through a 60 km road to reach the archaeological site. This route goes through the jungle and can take between 1.5 and 2 hours. It is recommended that private vehicles carry enough fuel and food since access is remote and there are no stores or services within the site.
Recommended:
Wear cool clothes, comfortable shoes, insect repellent, sun protection, and bring enough water. Most guests will arrive early, as an organized tour can take several hours. Access is limited to certain hours to conserve the natural environment.
