Zona Arqueológica Palenque

Spectacular Maya ruins. Definitely a must for anyone that has an interest in getting to know this amazing culture. The uncovered area that you can visit is just 5% of the actual city which up to this day is still covered by jungle. Definitely recommend to hire an official guide to really be able to grasp and appreciate the magnitude of this once so great culture

Palenque is not just a collection of stone ruins; it is an experience of discovery and immersion. Nestled deep within the humid Chiapan jungle, the site is unparalleled for its mystical atmosphere and stunning setting. Unlike the more arid sites, here you feel the weight of history surrounded by the vibrant sounds and green canopy of the rainforest. Atmosphere and Setting: The humidity is intense, but the reward is worth it. The jungle hasn't just been cleared around the ruins; it actively embraces them. You'll see massive kapok trees, hear the roar of howler monkeys, and feel the constant presence of the wild. It gives the site a unique sense of being reclaimed by nature. Key Structures: The architecture at Palenque is sophisticated and beautiful, known for its delicate stucco work and refined carvings. * The Temple of the Inscriptions: The most famous structure, which housed the tomb of the great ruler Pakal the Great. It is imposing and a marvel of classic Mayan engineering. * The Palace: With its unique four-story tower, the Palace offers fascinating insights into the royal life and astronomical observations of the ancient city. * The Northern Group & Waterfalls: Don't miss the structures across the small river and the beautiful, small waterfalls and cascades that flow through the site—a perfect spot for a break. Overall: Palenque provides a thrilling blend of history, archaeology, and intense natural beauty. It's a must-visit for anyone traveling through Chiapas and offers a far more engaging and evocative experience than many larger, better-known sites. Arrive early to beat the worst of the heat and the largest crowds!

I wanted to come here since I was a little child, and I was not disappointed. The ruins are simply stunning both the ones that have been restored in the main area and the remaining ones that are still covered by the jungle. I just wanted to add some details on how to get there. Actually, the best way is to take a collectivo from the city centre. I paid only 25 pesos. When you are there, you are assaulted by people that want to be your guide, but I think it’s actually so much better to go on your own. They tell you that without them, you cannot see the ruins that are in the jungle. but actually it’s not true. I had to pay then, from the official ticket booth 100 pesos to enter the main archaeological park, 235 pesos to get into the jungle, and 60 more pesos to get the shuttle bus to get to the main entrance. There was no shuttle bus to take me back to a ticket booth when I finished, but I could jump on another collectivo that took me back to the city Centre. Please note, but even when it goes back to the city centre all it says on the bus is Ruinas.

The sights are great. Now there are two prices. One for nationals and one for foreigners. You can take your car but your not permited to park i the area, but there are a few restaurants near the area... Take your car. The tickets cost 215$ each + 60$ for parking + 120$ for the taxi to take you up to the ruins. In all it's a good place to visit, very hot, not many moskitos if your blood is packed with vit B but it's quite a hike. Swarms of tour guides will come to you, the prices range from 100$ to 330$ or more for a guide. Some beautiful trees very humid take water....

was here on a Sunday. on Sundays the locals have free entry and hence the place was busy. I recommend taking a guide to understand the different buildings. I got an unofficial guide from inside the site for 400 pesos though the guides outside asked for 800 pesos. I was alone and hence this lower price, for groups they may charge 1000 pesos. unfortunately I did not hear any howler monkeys even though the guide took me a bit inside the jungle. the place looks mesmerizing and reminded me of video game locations of mayan civilization. there are multiples tickets to be purchased. a total of 315 pesos on tickets and 60 pesos for the collectivo too and fro from the entry gate.this was in addition to the 25 pesos for the collectivo from the town to the entry gate

It was nice visiting this place and having to know more about old cultures. Unfortunately we arrived late in the afternoon and was able to get in the last bus 4pm On the site gurdes were not allowing us to visit all ruins and we were forced to leave half an hour earlier What bother me and other travelers that non on the employees on such well visited touristic site that they do not speak any international languages I hope one day decision makers might see the benefits once visitors have the ability to talking to employees in site

Absolutely beautiful and worth the visit. The ruins are stunning, the nature beautiful, and we even saw howler monkeys. Bring cash to buy some souvenirs from the locals, and stop by the food stands outside to show support! We met some very friendly people who served hot food near the entrance. Gracias! Es un lugar mágico 🩷

This is one of my favourite places in Mexico. A lot of pyramids surrounded by beautiful greenery all around you. Many vendors selling so many beautiful things. I strongly advise to visit this place early in the morning because of the people and the weather. We visited the place in late April.