Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Archaeological Sites & Ruins

Calakmul

Calakmul, Mexico

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST RUINS & SITES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 1 2026

Top 10No. 1 in North AmericaNo. 1 in Mexico

Calakmul

A Maya city ruin deep in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in Campeche, Mexico, reached by a long jungle road. Visitors walk forest paths between large stone pyramids and climb several of them for views over the canopy.

Highlights

  • Structure II pyramid
  • Climbable pyramids viewpoints
  • Jungle canopy views

Good to know

  • Entry fees paid at biosphere checkpoint and site
  • Bring at least two litres of water
  • Drive limited to 30 km/h on approach road

Also in Mexico

  1. Uxmal N° 9 Uxmal Santa Elena Ancient city
  2. Palenque N° 13 Palenque Palenque Ancient city
  3. Yaxchilán N° 18 Yaxchilán Frontera Corozal Ancient city
  4. Ek Balam N° 29 Ek Balam Temozón Ancient city
  5. Edzná N° 37 Edzná Campeche Ancient city
  6. Cantona N° 44 Cantona Tepeyahualco Ancient city