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Mayan ruins of Coba

  • Quintana Roo, Mexico

Last updated: 07 February, 2025

This conglomeration of Mayan towns, linked by extensive paved walkways and centred on pyramid-lined plazas, was one of the most important Mayan trading centres in its heyday between AD 200 and AD 1400.

Set in lush forest near two pretty lakes, it receives far fewer visitors than Chichen Itza or Tulum and consequently feels more authentic and atmospheric. There are wonderful views from the temple tops, the largest of which is almost 130ft tall.

Look for toucans and spider monkeys in the forest canopy, wild coatimundis, agouti and rare peccaries on the forest paths.

Don’t miss

Climb the steep, vertiginous steps to the summit of the 126ft-high Nohoc Mul pyramid, the tallest on the Mayan Riviera and the only one tourists can still climb.

Logistics

Price from: £5
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

There are many organised tours to Coba, but it’s fairly straightforward to visit independently (with a hire car). Allow 40 minutes to drive from Tulum (about 40km). The visitor centre provides maps and sells guidebooks about the site, and local Mayan guides are available at the gates. There are snack bars in adjacent Coba village, but for a proper meal head to Tulum.

The mosquitoes in the forest can be vicious – especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Bring a strong repellent. Also take binoculars for wildlife spotting.

When to do it

The site open all year round, seven days a week. Early morning and late afternoon are best for wildlife.

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Cancun

Embark on an unforgettable tour that takes you deep into the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula! Start your day exploring the stunning cliffside ruins of Tulum, where you will uncover the secrets of this ancient Mayan port city. Then, explore Coba, and discover Nohoch Mul pyramid, the tallest in this region. Recharge your energies by indulging in a delicious buffet lunch featuring a variety of traditional Mexican dishes before diving into a cenote. Cool off with a refreshing swim in a crystal-clear cenote, a natural wonder cherished by the Mayans. Do not forget that your adventure includes delightful chocolate and tequila tastings, where you will learn about traditional production methods and savor a variety of flavors. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and culinary delights, making it a must-do experience in the Yucatan. Book now and create lasting memories on this one-day tour of Tulum and Coba!

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Rating 4.53 / 5 [1205 ratings]

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  • Cancun

Enjoy the perfect blend of culture and adventure as you immerse yourself in Mayan culture like a local. Visit two significant archaeological sites: Tulum, the walled city by the beach with stunning Caribbean views, and then head to a refreshing semi-open cenote. Here, experience Mayan traditions, including an introduction to Mayan Bee Melipona honey, a demonstration of cocoa seeds, and a visit to a Shaman who will perform a Mayan ceremony in your honour. Indulge in the finest local cuisine to recharge, and then continue to Coba, where you'll find the tallest pyramid of the Peninsula. An immersive adventure in Mayan culture awaits you.

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Rating 4.54 / 5 [950 ratings]

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  • Playa del Carmen

Enjoy this amazing one day combo tour as you visit Coba Ruins, Cenote Choha, Tulum Ruins and the beautiful Paradise Beach. You'll have an amazing experience as you cover these fantastic places in one day. Your tour includes lunch, a professional guide and transport. Very small group of maximum 12 people.

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Rating 4.74 / 5 [762 ratings]

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  • Playa del Carmen

Enjoy a tour of two main archaeological sites: Chichen Itza and Coba. You will have a guided tour at each site as well as time to explore on your own. You'll also have a chance to swim at cenote Ik Kil and enjoy a buffet lunch. Breakfast (Juice, cookies and a piece of fruit.) on board, a professional guide and transport. Smaller groups!

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Rating 4.67 / 5 [733 ratings]

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  • Tulum

Discover the mysteries of the ancient Mayan civilization with this Cancun Super Saver, a full-day adventure to Tulum and Coba. Choose between two options: one from Cancun and another from Playa del Carmen. Please note that the Playa del Carmen option does not include 5th Avenue. Unravel the history of the pre-Columbian walled city of Tulum with a guide, and enjoy an invigorating swim in an open cenote. Savor Yucatán Peninsula specialties at a buffet lunch before delving into the rainforest to explore the ancient Mayan village of Coba, once a bustling center for trade. For those departing from Cancun, the tour concludes with a visit to the vibrant 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen, the heart of this lively city.

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Rating 4.14 / 5 [586 ratings]

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