Calakmul

Calakmul is an ancient complex of thousands of stone buildings spread across more than 70 square kilometers in the tropical lowlands of Campeche. The site includes large temple staircases, residential zones with low platforms, and wide plazas surrounded by trees and vegetation.

Between 250 BC and 700 AD, the city grew into the capital of the Serpent's Head Kingdom and fought prolonged conflicts with its rival Tikal. After centuries of power, residents gradually abandoned the place until complete desertion in the 10th century.

The name translates to two neighboring mounds in the Maya language, referring to the twin pyramids that dominate the skyline. Visitors walk among stone markers that once recorded dynastic marriages, battles, and calendar calculations in a script only deciphered in recent decades.

Getting there requires advance planning, as no public transport is available; guided tours depart from Xpujil between 6:30 AM and 11:30 AM. The walk through the main zone takes about three hours and follows uneven paths with some steep climbs to pyramid platforms.

Structure II reaches about 180 feet in height and ranks as the second tallest Maya pyramid; an older, smaller pyramid is hidden inside. Visitors occasionally spot howler monkeys and jaguars in the surrounding biosphere reserve, which is among the largest protected tropical forests in Mesoamerica.

Location: Calakmul Municipality

GPS coordinates: 18.10500,-89.81056

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:41