Exploring the Mayan Ruins: Day Trips from Hotel Mousai Cancun
One of the most fascinating elements of the Mexican Caribbean is the possibility to embark on the exploration of ancient archaeological sites left behind by the great Mayan culture. While staying at Hotel Mousai Cancun, you can venture out and uncover the mysteries of one of the largest civilizations long past. From the majestic ceremonial sites and stunning castle pyramids of Chichen-Itza to the oceanfront gem of Tulum, and many other Mayan ruins near Costa Mujeres, these day trips will turn your vacation into the experience of a lifetime.
Pack your curiosity and adventurous spirit and join us on this post as we dig deeper into the fantastic places where a wealth of knowledge is waiting to be explored.
El Meco
These Mayan ruins are at the top of our list because they are located only minutes from Hotel Mousai, being the closest to Costa Mujeres. This small yet significant archaeological location is remarkably well preserved and features a great pyramid decorated with serpent heads. It offers a fascinating window into the life and beliefs of two Mayan communities that inhabited El Meco, an intimate site that can be explored in half a day or less.
Chichen Itza
This archaeological site has some of the most important Mayan ruins ever discovered, it has been given the distinction of UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. You will need a full day to explore this amazing ancient city located about 2 hours and 40 minutes from Hotel Mousai and Costa Mujeres.
El Rey
About a 30-minute drive from Hotel Mousai Cancun and within the buzzing hotel zone, the “El Rey” archaeological site features a series of enigmatic platforms where buildings used to stand, as well as the statue of a Mayan king which was recently moved to a nearby museum. Archaeologists believe it was an important post within the vast Mayan trading route with a small community inhabiting its land.
Tulum
Discovered in the mid-1800’s, Tulum is an unmissable stop. This breathtaking Mayan city about a 2-hour drive from Costa Mujeres was built on a cliff overlooking the turquoise water and white sands. It is a unique, oceanfront archaeological wonder where nature paints a sublime picture at any time of the day and where mythical beauty is revealed wherever you look.
Coba
Nestled in the heart of the forest about a 2.5-hour drive from Costa Mujeres, this captivating site features the large pyramid of Nohoch Mul, an archaeological beauty surrounded by greenery. When you visit Coba, you also have the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing and delightful swim in nearby Cenotes, the one-of-a-kind ancient sinkholes where the purest water has been filtering for millions of years.
Ek Balam
About 2 hours from Hotel Mousai and off the beaten path, this well-preserved site features fascinating buildings including a large pyramid, temples, and palaces, as well as sculptures and a royal tomb. Only a portion of Ek Balam has been excavated, a fact that tells us about its grandeur, and there is also a ballgame court, which leaves no doubt that this was an important Mayan capital and ceremonial site. It is believed that this city remained active until the arrival of the Spanish invasion.
When visiting these sites during your Cancun vacation at Hotel Mousai, you will be fascinated by the remnants of the Mayan culture that offer a captivating window into the past. This is a unique opportunity to trace the footsteps of these ancient peoples, marveling at the architectural wonders they left behind.
These day trips are the best way to gain insight into the beliefs, customs, and daily lives of the Mayan culture. Don’t miss the chance to embark on an enriching journey back in time, one ancient ruin at a time.