Zona Arqueológica de Calakmul

We were surprised by the fee right at the beginning of the road after leaving the main road. As foreigners, we had to pay 305 pesos per person plus 90 pesos. This is addition to the 100 pesos per person entrance fee, which is paid at the park entrance. Only cash! The road is relatively well-maintained, but the walk is long. Restrooms are only available at the entrance. The first pyramid is 800 meters away. There were brief directions, but only one map of the entire complex. Unfortunately, the information was very limited in English. Unfortunately, we didn't see any of the animals, except for a peacock turkey. At the entrance, it says that you're not allowed to climb pyramids, but it wasn't a problem with the two largest ones. It took us three hours to see everything.

Due to el tren Maya, the road to Calakmul is a breeze to drive on now. Unfortunately that also means more tourists. That being said, visiting the ruins of Calakmul is definitely still an adventure, as the nearest town of Xpujil is 2+ hours away. Once there, the sites facilities have been completely renovated, with a new parking lot, toilets, ticket office and a very nice small museum including some great sites. The walkways are easily accessible and the structures are the most impressive I've ever seen. Add wild monkeys, toucans and even a wild tapir to complete the experience! The only downside is the walkways and maps are pretty difficult to wrap your head around, so getting lost is pretty easy, though highly recommended if you have the time :-)

Drive there is easy now - a new road had been built, but it is still long. 60km through the jungle there and back 30km/h, at times 40-60 km/h. On 27th km there is a 1200m loop through the jungle, I recommend you take it, but walk slowly, quietly and be receptive. You may see a lot of animals that way. We got the full experience with a snake rattling at us - maybe not entirely preferable for many. The site itself is epic and the main climb is totally worth it. You'll get well above the jungle. Monkeys in the trees are a plenty. If you're hot, tired, you may skip the Muralia part, nothing there really. Bring some water, it's about 2hrs on the site.

Its amazing to be able to climb to the top of three pyramids. The new Maya tren Calakmul hotel looks good, I walked through just as it was opening. Its the closest accommodation to the ruins, but still 11km away.

Not the easiest place to reach but the visit is definitely worth it! We left at 3am from Campeche and after a 6 hrs drive we reached this archeological site in the middle of the jungle where you can climb on the pyramids and enjoy a beautiful view of the area. I also suggest you to get a guide and go for a walk in the jungle where you might find monkeys and crocodiles

Here's what you need to know before visiting Calakmul (2025): -Total entry cost: 305 MXN (biosphere, obligatory) + 100 MXN (site ticket) = 405 pesos per person -Free shaded parking -No food or drinks sold inside – bring your own -Toilets only at the entrance How to get there: From Highway 186, follow the well-marked turn for Calakmul. After the checkpoint (where you pay 305 MXN), the road continues through the jungle. It’s paved/cemented but has curves and some potholes. Easy to drive. The checkpoint is also your last stop for gas, snacks, and water – stock up! We stayed in Xpujil, 2 hours from the site – perfect base. Coming from Campeche takes 5–7 hours, so staying nearby is a good idea. The site is deep in the jungle, peaceful and magical. Easy walking trails in the forest, but steep climbs on the pyramids – 100% worth it for the view! Tours are available (transport + guide + tickets for ~2400 MXN), but we went independently with a rental car and it was super manageable. Highly recommended if you’re looking for something authentic and less touristy. Totally worth the effort if you have time!

The site is absolutely amazing. Well worth the 2 h drive. The road has been refurbished so it’s a very smooth drive there with free parking right out the front. We arrived at 6 am and the park was already open. Signage inside the park could be a little better and there are no toilets in the park at this point (currently being built). It’s a lot of construction around the entrance area but the main site is untouched by this and a fantastic wander with monkeys and all kinds of animals around. Definitely recommend climbing the main pyramids, the sight is breath taking. Take lots to drink as amazingly the site is free of tourist shops and vendors at this point! also they only take cash. Safe travels!

Just go it’s amazing, and they’ve laid a tarmac road so it’s even easier. Stunning. Take water and food.