Uxmal is an amazing archaeological zone: surrounded by the Mayan jungle and beautiful colonial sites.
If you are visiting the Riviera Maya and want to have a taste of the life in the Peninsula centuries ago, you have to visit Uxmal. This archeological site is a World Heritage Site, and experts believe it was founded in 500 A.D.
Traditionally the word Uxmal has been believed to mean “built three timesâ€, regarding the different occupations of the site. However, some experts believe that Ux (Yucatecan Mayan for harvest) might be use to describe the fertile soil in the Puuc region.
Uxmal developed as the center of the Puuc region, and its architecture is heavily decorated with Chac masks, friezes and ornamental cresting. Some of the main buildings are the Governor’s Palace, the Nun’s Quadrangle and the Pyramid of the Magician; built between 600 – 900 A.D.
This archaeological site offers guided tours, a night show and other attractions in the area that are worth your time. A perfect stop to add to your getaway can be the romantic city of Izamal or even Merida, but Uxmal and its surrounding areas have enough attractions to keep you busy for a couple of days.
Getting there
Uxmal is located 240 miles west from Cancun, and about 35 miles southwest from Merida on the 261 highway. It is located in the municipality of Santa Elena in the state of Yucatan, Mexico.
If you are leaving from Cancun, take the highway 180D to Merida and then follow the 261 road to Campeche. These are very safe areas to drive at any time of the day, but once you get off the tollway keep an eye on speed bumps on the road.
Public Transportation
Departing from ADO station.
06:00, 08:00, 10:00, 11:30, 14:00, 17:30, 18:00, 19:30, 21:15, 22:30
(998) 884 55 42
TAME (2nd Class Buses) The bus station is located on Calle 69 x 68 y 70, in downtown Merida.
06:00, 08:00, 09:00, 10:40, 12:00, 14:00, 17:00
(999) 920 4444
(999) 924 8391
Attractions
The archaeological site is the main attraction, it will take a few hours to get around and learn more about this ancient city. The Adivino Pyramid welcomes the visitors and it is the tallest building in the area, and remember: climbing it is not allowed!
The building in the Uxmal site are built using the Puuc style, with lower buildings and intricate ornate made of stone. These masonry walls have withstood the test of time much better than other Mayan sites, and will allow you to see the original decoration.
Night Show
If you want to experience Uxmal and keep away from the sun and heat, this is a great alternative. The show depicts a lights and sound show on the walls of the buildings, ideal for those looking for an enigmatic experience.
Sotuta de Peon Live Hacienda
It is located halfway between Merida and Uxmal, it offers tours in the working hacienda, so you can learn more about the way people used to live in colonial times. There is a visit to the main building and then you can learn about the importance of Henequen fiber (Sisal) and see how it was produced.
The tour includes a mule trolley ride and access to a beautiful cenote, there is also a trolley bar to keep cool under the hot Yucatecan sun. Sisal Margaritas are a must try! The hacienda also works as a hotel & restaurant with traditional regional food.
Accommodations
Uxmal is a magnificent archeological site, surrounded by the Mayan jungle, however there are accommodations options for every taste and budget. If you are considering a romantic weekend trip, this options might be good choices.
The Lodge at Uxmal: It has direct access to the archeological site and a beautiful surroundings with breathtaking views throughout. This hotel rates that start from $177-$205 USD in the low season (May-Oct), and $360-$441 USD in the high season (Mar-Apr), please keep in mind there is an additional 17% tax on hotel rooms.
Hacienda Uxmal:Â A beautiful building with all the charm of the colonial times, it has a beautiful pool and well-manicured gardens. Join celebrities like Queen Elizabeth II & Prince Phillip of England, Prince Rainier & Grace of Monaco, Jacqueline Kennedy and her family and many others that have stayed in this historical hotel.
Useful information
The night show starts at 8:00 during the summer and fall and 7:00 pm during spring and winter.
Entrance Fees:
Your entrance fee includes access to the night show, keep your ticket!
Foreigners: 206 pesos
Mexican Citizens & legal residents: 145 pesos
INAPAM: 35 pesos
Night Show: $55 pesos for Mexicans and $86 pesos for foreigners
The Riviera Maya can be much more than beaches and fiesta, there are many other places to explore and enjoy in the Yucatan Peninsula. If you have ever considered living or retiring in Mexico, learn everything you need to know with our exclusive info Kit: Benefits of Living in Mexico.
Here in Top Mexico Real Estate we have the right professionals to take you from daydreaming to owning your ideal home in Paradise. We have choices for every taste and budget, browse our website and fall in love!
And remember…
we make it happen!
