coba ruins visit

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Coba , Mexico

How to visit coba ruins – one of the best mayan sites in mexico.

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If visiting Mayan Ruins in Mexico is something that you enjoy, Coba ruins should be on your list. Nestled in the middle of a dense jungle and a bit off the beaten path, this archeological site might not be the most popular one, but it’s definitely worth visiting. Its remote location means, that Coba ruins receives just a fraction of visitors compared to more famous sites like Chichén Itzá or Tulum ruins.

The entire site of Cobá is enormous and covers an area of 30 square miles. What’s unique about this Mayan site is that it has several different settlements in one place. So instead of single structures scattered all over the site, you’ll find clusters of pyramids and temples connected by long paths. Mayan ruins of Cobá are also where you will find the second tallest pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula, only giving way to Calakmul.

You can easily reach Mayan ruins of Cobá from Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Cancún and Valladolid . It makes for a great day trip from either of these destinations or an excellent stop on your Yucatán Peninsula road trip. I recommend skipping organized tours and visiting the site independently. If you have a car, that’s very easy to do, if you don’t, it’s a bit trickier, but still possible.

Table of Contents

About Coba Ruins

Built between 500-900 AD, the ancient city of Cobá was once one of the most powerful in Yucatán. Its location near the water and farmlands helped it become an important trading hub. It’s estimated, that at its peak Cobá had a population of 50,000 residents, which was one of the largest cities at that time.

Around 900-1000 AD Cobá engaged in power struggle with Chichén Itzá, eventually losing its status as the political and economic center. By the time Spanish arrived, Cobá was no longer inhabited.

It wasn’t until 1973, that the archeological site of Cobá was open to public. What we see today is just a small percentage of what is still hidden deep in that jungle. Only a small fraction has been restored by archeologists and the majority of the structures are yet to be excavated.

Cobá in Mayan means “ stirred by water ” and the name couldn’t be more perfect, as the town is located on two lagoons: Cobá Lagoon and Macanxoc Lagoon.

Practical information for visiting Coba Ruins

Entrance fee.

The entrance fee is currently 100 MXN ( paid in cash ), making it one of cheapest Mayan ruins in Mexico. If you want to rent a bike to get around the site, which I highly recommend, add another 60 MXN. If you arrive by car, the parking costs 50 MXN.

You can also hire a guide, right there at the entrance, which is a great option if you’d like to learn more about Mayan history and the ruins themselves. There are some plaques with information at some of the structures, but it’s minimal.

Opening hours

Coba Ruins are open daily from 8 am – 5 pm.

Best time to visit Coba Ruins

I always recommend getting to popular attractions as close to the opening time as possible. The difference in experience is huge. Not only there will be just a handful of people there, but you also avoid the hottest part of the day. Early morning light is also best for taking pictures and it will be easy to get great photos with no people in them. I was at the entrance of Coba ruins right when it opened at 8 am and was the only one there ( except for the cute puppy who followed me from town and throughout the site ). I had the main Ixmoja pyramid all to myself, which was an incredible experience.

If you’re getting to Cobá by car, arriving around the opening time is easy. It’s a bit harder, if you are using public transportation, especially if you’re coming from Cancún or Playa del Carmen. In that case, I recommend spending a night in Cobá, so you can get to the ruins bright and early.

How to get around Coba Ruins

• walk – you can certainly get around the ruins on foot, just keep in mind, that the structures are really spread out. To see all of them you’ll need to cover about 4-5 km. Also, the main pyramid is a nice, but long walk from the entrance ( 1.2 miles ).
• bike – my personal favorite way of getting around Coba ruins is renting a bike for 60 MXN. There are designated areas to park your bike near most pyramids. There are a couple more remote structures, where you’d need to leave your bike and walk. The entire site is really well marked and it’s easy to see where bikes are and are not allowed.
• bicitaxi – you can also hire a bicitaxi, that does the pedaling for you and takes you around the site. These typically fit two people up front, but can also accommodate a couple with a small child. It’s a great option if you want to just sit back and relax, or have any mobility issues. The cost of a bicitaxi is 140 MXN.

How much time to spend

Plan to spend about 2 hours to explore the site. Add another hour if you don’t rent a bike and decide to walk. The ruins are pretty spread out and while you can definitely walk between them, your visit will obviously be longer.

Can you climb Coba Ruins?

Unfortunately, you can no longer climb Coba ruins. Due to COVID, climbing the main Ixmoja pyramid is no longer allowed and the structure is roped off. There’s no word on when or if it will ever reopen to climbers.

Do you need a guide?

You do not need to hire a guide to visit Coba Ruins, but if you don’t have much knowledge about Mayan history, it’s certainly a great addition. If you don’t want to spend the extra money, I do recommend reading a little about prior to your visit. Especially that there isn’t much information once you’re there.

Other tips for visiting Coba Ruins

• visit early in the day, ideally right when it opens at 8 am, to beat the crowds and midday heat. Coba Ruins don’t get nearly as busy as the more famous sites, but they still get a decent amount of visitors later in the day.
• avoid Sundays – that’s the day when Mexican citizens and residents get free admission to Mayan ruins including Cobá.
• take a picture of the Coba ruins map right after the entrance to give you an idea of the layout and distances.
• rent a bike ( 60 MXN ) to get around the entire site.
• as soon as you enter the ruins, make a beeline for the main Nohoch Mul pyramid.
• bring plenty of water and snacks if you need them. Once you enter the site, there’s no food or drinks to buy.
• the only restrooms are near the entrance.
• bring enough cash to cover the entrance, bike rental and anything else you might need to purchase while in Cobá. Everything is cash only and there is no ATM in town. The closest bank is located in Tulum and Valladolid , so make sure you have enough to cover all expenses.

Coba Ruins – top sights to see

This group of structures is the one furthest away from the entrance, which is about 1.2 miles, but it’s where I recommend starting your visit. The main reason is, that’s where you will find Ixmoja, the pyramid everyone comes to see. If you get to the ruins early in the morning and make Nohoch Mul your very first stop, you have a high chance of having the site all to yourself.

Ixmoja pyramid stands at 130 feet tall ( 42 m ), has 120 steps leading to the top and it’s the second tallest pyramid in Yucatan. Until recently, it was one of the very few Mayan ruins in Mexico, that you could still climb. Coba followed suit of other Mayan sites and climbing is no longer possible. Unfortunate for those who’d like to enjoy great views from the top, but probably best for preserving this amazing structure.

When you are done at Nohoch Mul and start making your way back, next building you will see is Xaibé. This is a unique, pyramid like structure, that was not that often found in Mayan cities and its shape suggests, that is was used as a lookout tower. Xaibé sits at the intersection of four streets, hence its name, which in Mayan means crossroads .

Juego de Pelota ( Ball Court )

A little up the road from Xaibé is Juego de Pelota, one of the two ball game courts at Coba. These courts were used for playing the ancient Mayan ball game Pok-ta-Pok and you can find them at nearly all Mayan sites. This is the bigger of the two ball courts found at Coba.

If you’ve visited Chichén Itzá , you will notice the difference between the ball court found there and the one here. Coba ball court is not even near the size of the one in Chichén Itzá. It’s believed, that this means, that the games played at Coba had more of a ceremonial nature.

Grupo de las Pinturas

A short bike ride from Xaibé is Grupo de las Pinturas ( Group of the Paintings ), which is a collection of several structures and pillars. The highlight of this group is Pyramid of the Frescoes with paintings at the top of the temple.

Grupo Macanxoc

Macanxoc Group, named after the lagoon it’s on, is where you will find the largest collection of stelae, which are slab stones with writings and drawings on them. The presence of stelae and temples indicates, that this part of the Mayan city was a ceremonial center of Coba.

This is the cluster of buildings, that is the closest to the entrance and also the one with the most structures ( there are 50 of them ). The most prominent one is La Iglesia, which is also the second tallest pyramid at the site.

Cobá Group also contains one of the two ball courts.

Stelae are large flat stones with detailed drawings and writings, depicting traditional Mayan rituals and important events in daily life in Coba. You can find them scattered all of over the site, often near other structures or temples. However, the Macanxoc Group has the biggest collection of them.

One of the things Coba ruins are known for is network of white limestone pathways called sacbe, which connect different neighborhoods to the main pyramid Nohoch Mul. Cobá was an important trade center and sacbe were also used to transport goods at night.

There are over 50 of saecbe found at Cobá, but only 16 are open to public. The longest one is 62 miles ( 100 km ) and runs from Cobá to the ruins of Yaxuma near Chichén Itzá.

How to get to Coba Ruins

Mayan ruins of Cobá are located in a small, sleepy town Cobá, in the Quintana Roo state, close to the border with Yucatán. 29 miles from Tulum, 38 miles from Valladolid, 68 miles from Playa del Carmen and 108 miles from Cancún. By far, the easiest way to get to Cobá is by car.

Getting to Cobá without a car is a bit harder, but not impossible. You can take a bus or a Colectivo ( or a combination of both ) from several destinations nearby. Of course, you can always take a taxi, but that’s going to be quite expensive.

Playa del Carmen to Cobá

• Colectivo – there is no direct Colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Cobá. You will need to take one to Tulum first, then take another one from Tulum to Cobá. Colectivos to Tulum leave from Calle 1 S and Avenida 45 S in Playa del Carmen ( next to Chedraui ). Once in Tulum Centro, head to the corner of Tulum Avenue and Calle Osiris Norte and hop on the Colectivo to Cobá. The last Colectivo back to Tulum leaves around 3.30-4 pm.
• Bus – another option is to take the Oriente bus from the ADO bus station. Oriente is a second class bus and unlike ADO, they do not have a website with schedule. It’s best to head to the station to get the times of departure. When you are ready to return, there’s a bus back to Playa del Carmen at 3.10 pm. But remember you are in Mexico, so it can show up either earlier or later, so be at the stop about 30 min earlier, just to be safe. The bus will stop in front of the Chile Picante restaurant ( look for two giant chile peppers in front ).

Tulum to Coba

• Colectivo – Colectivos to Cobá leave from the corner of Avenida Tulum and Calle Osiris Norte and it takes less than an hour to get there. If you plan on returning to Tulum via Colectivo as well, keep in mind that the last one leaves around 3.30-4 pm.
• Bus – you can also take a second class bus Oriente from ADO Terminal in Tulum. It’s a one hour bus ride and one way ticket costs 58 MXN. Cobá doesn’t really have a bus station ( or a bus stop per se ). When you get to Cobá, the bus will stop by the lagoon, and from there you are about a 5 min walk to the ruins. To catch the bus back to Tulum, wait in front of the Chile Picante Restaurant. The afternoon bus is scheduled at 3.10 pm, but this is “Mexican time”, so it can show up either earlier or later.

Valladolid to Coba

• Bus – second class bus Oriente leaves several times a day from the ADO Terminal in Valladolid to Cobá . Unlike first class ADO buses, there’s no online schedule and I recommend going to the bus terminal to confirm the departure times. This is a bus, that goes all the way to Playa del Carmen, and Cobá is one of the stops. There’s no station or even a bus stop in Cobá and the driver will make a stop by the lagoon with no announcement whatsoever. So pay attention to the route and once you enter the town of Cobá and see the lagoon, get ready to get off the bus, as this is your stop. From there it’s about a 5 minute walk to the Cobá ruins entrance.

Best Coba Ruins Tours

If you’ve read all this and decided that visiting Coba Ruins with a guided tour is something you prefer, you’ll have plenty to choose from. You can find organized tours to Coba Ruins from Tulum, Cancún or Playa del Carmen. Most of them are a full day tours, that also include other stops like cenotes or Tulum ruins.

Here are some of the highest rated tours of Cobá:

• From Tulum – Tulum and Coba: Full-Day Archeological Tour with Lunch
• From Cancún – Coba, Cenote, Tulum and Playa del Carmen Tour
• Coba Ruins, Cenotes, and Mayan Experiences Full-Day Tour

Where to stay near Coba Ruins

Most people come to Coba just for the day, but if you’d like to spend the night. there are several hotels in town . Even though the town is small and there’s not much to do besides the ruins and Coba cenotes nearby, it is a great place to relax. Also, staying overnight means you’ll be able to get to Coba ruins right when they open and very likely be the only one there. That plan worked very well for me and I had the entire place to myself for a while ( except the little puppy, that followed me from town to the ruins and throughout the entire site ).

Jungla y Estrellas is where I stayed and if you are looking for a hotel in Coba, I cannot recommend it enough. It’s a small property with beautiful palapas, swimming pool and plenty of seating around to relax. The rooms are really spacious and comfortable. But where the hotel really shines is the hosts Alfredo, Hector and Pepe. They go way and beyond to make your stay amazing and you will feel right at home in no time. I actually wished I stayed an extra day, just to relax at this beautiful spot.

If you stay at Jungla y Estrellas, you are just a 20 minute walk away from the entrance to Coba ruins. They also have bikes for rent ( although you will not be able to use that bike to get around the ruins, they make you rent one at the site ).

Cenotes near Coba ruins

There isn’t a lot going on in Cobá, but there are three cenotes nearby, that are a great addition to visiting the ruins. They are perfect for cooling off after a couple of hours of walking or biking around in the heat.

All three cenotes are located about 6 km from town and are easiest to reach by car. You can also rent a bike and get there that way, or walk to town and get a taxi. Choo-Ha and Taankach-Ha are very close to each other, while Multun-Ha is about a 10 minute drive from the first two. They are open daily 8 am – 6 pm and the entrance fee is 100 MXN for each of them.

Choo-Ha, Taankach-Ha aand Multun-Ha are all underground cenotes and you access them while going through a small opening in the ground via a spiral and often slippery staircase. They offer a slightly different experience, so I highly recommend visiting at least two. Definitely Choo-Ha, as it’s absolutely stunning inside and then one of the two deeper ones. We chose Taankach-Ha because of the jumping platforms.

A great things about Coba cenotes is, that they are located off the beaten path, so you don’t have to worry about crazy crowds, especially compared to other more popular cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula. Most likely there will be just a handful of people there, if any at all.

Choo-Ha – this is a rather shallow cenote, which is perfect if you are visiting with kids. It’s the most picturesque one, with crystal clear water and lots of beautiful stalagmites and stalactites.

Taankach-Ha – this perfectly round shaped cenote is much deeper and has very high ceilings. If you are feeling brave, there are two jumping platforms, one at 5 meters and the other at 10 meters. If that sounds a bit scary, there is also a wooden platform with stairs. Depending on the amount of rain fall, it might be a bit underwater. You are also very likely to see a few bats flying around the cave.

Multum-Ha – at 32 meters ( 90 feet ), this is the deepest of the three Coba cenotes. Unlike Choo-Ha and Taankach-Ha, which are a 100% underground, this cenote has a small opening in the roof, which lets in some natural light. No jumping platforms here, but there’s a large wooden deck with railings. Again, if you are visiting after a significant rainfall, expect the deck to be underwater.

• Chichen Itza in Mexico – how to plan the perfect visit
• How to visit the Pyramids of Teotihuacán from Mexico City on you own
• Valladolid in Mexico – the hidden gem in the Yucatan Peninsula

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4 thoughts on “ How to visit Coba Ruins – one of the best Mayan sites in Mexico ”

Thank you! I will actually be spending 4 nights in Coba(at Malinche Cafe) as I like it quiet – and this is the best info I have found. I’m also excited to tour some close by Mayan Villages

I’m glad to hear that! Enjoy Coba.

Hi! Just for an update. I was in Playa del Carmen recently (March 20, 2024) and there wereTaxi collectivos (cars not vans) departing Playa from the collectivos station (corner of Avenida 45 and Calle 1) to Coba. The price was 200 pesos.

That’s great!! Thanks for the update!

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Coba Ruins Mexico – Your Complete Guide To Visiting

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

Located in the heart of the Mayan jungle, the ancient Coba ruins are a sight to behold. Wandering around this archeological area makes you feel like Indiana Jones, as you get a chance to see impressive stone pyramids, panels with petroglyphs, and remains of Mayan ceremonial sites.

This archaeological area is less than an hour away from Tulum and one hour away from the colonial town of Valladolid, one of the most charming pueblos magicos in Mexico.

When you need a bit of an adventure and a getaway from the beach, hop in a car (or on a bus), and hit the road!

Coba ruins history

Established in approximately 600 CE, Cobá was home to 50,000 residents at one point.

Translated as “waters stirred by wind” from the Mayan language, Coba ruins are famous for the largest network of sac-be’s (which means white road in the Mayan language). Archaeologists have discovered about 50 roads in the area, but only 16 of them are open to the public. They connect various areas of Coba to the main Pyramid Nohoch Mul as well as the nearby lake.

This archaeological area is home to more than 30 stelae (or columns made from rock), some of which boast inscribed images and tell a story of what life was like back in the day.

Why visit Coba Ruins?

Coba is one of the best day trips from Tulum and is a great alternative to some of the most popular Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula, like Chichen Itza and Tulum. It’s a more remote site, and has far fewer visitors, however, it’s getting more popular now as more tourists are discovering this place.

It is also a bigger archaeological area and has plenty of shade which means you will not have to bake in the sun the entire time you are here.

PRO TIP: Learn more about the best Mayan ruins in Mexico that you can visit during your road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula.

Where are Coba ruins located?

Coba ruins are located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, in the Yucatan Peninsula. It sits beside two small lakes in the namesake village.

Distance to Coba ruins

• From Tulum – 43km (27 miles) – 35-40 minutes
• From Valladolid – 60.0 km – 50 minutes
• From Playa Del Carmen – 109.0 km – 1 hour 30 minutes
• From Cancun – 133.6 km – 2 hour 6 minutes

How to get to Coba Ruins Mexico

Depending on your time and budget, there are several ways to reach this archaeological area. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options.

✅ Rental car

The best way to visit Coba is by rental car . You can rent a car in Tulum , or Cancun after you land, so you don’t have to rely on buses. Renting a car in Mexico will allow you to explore the region at your own pace and visit cenotes, the best Pueblos Magicos in Yucatan like Tulum or Valladolid, and also tour other Mayan ruins.

Read my complete guide to renting a car in Mexico to avoid the most common mistakes and save money!

I recommend DiscoverCars , my favorite car rental company that has a great inventory and affordable rates. I’ve rented a car from them several times and always had a great experience!

✅ Guided tours of Coba ruins

Visiting Coba from Tulum with a guided tour can save you a lot of hassle. Guided tours are great if you don’t have a car and don’t want to deal with the public transportation.

A tour will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel, and most likely include a stop for lunch as well as a visit to nearby cenotes. Plus, you will also have an English-speaking guide give you a detailed tour of the area and answer any questions that you might have.

✅ Colectivo

Colectivos are small shared minivans that are often used by locals and cost only a fraction of a regular bus ticket.

Colectivos from Tulum cost approximately 70 Pesos, but they typically don’t leave until they have filled all the seats. This is something to consider, especially, if you are trying to get here from Tulum early. Colectivos leave from Tulum Avenue and Calle Osiris.

PRO TIP: Since colectivos don’t have a set schedule, check the bus schedule ahead of your trip because you could spend some time waiting to catch a colectivo to Tulum.

👉 Check my top Mexico travel tips that will help you to save money and avoid mistakes when taking buses and colectivos around the country.

A second-class Mayab Bus leaves from the main bus terminal in Tulum and can take you to the ruins quickly and hassle-free. Bring cash to pay for your tickets as credit cards are not accepted.

Their schedule is not published online, and you will need to ask about their schedule at the ticket office.

Although you can get to Coba by taxi, I don’t recommend it.

This is the most expensive option, and, if you don’t want to take public transportation, it makes more sense to just rent a car, because you will be able to visit cenotes and other points of interest in the area, without having to pay for a taxi every time you need to get around. A taxi from Tulum can be anywhere from 400-500 Pesos one way and up.

How much is the entrance fee to Coba?

The entrance fee is 80 Mexico Pesos per person for foreign visitors. You also need to pay separately for parking which is 50 Pesos. Both of these payments have to be made in cash.

What time are Coba ruins open?

The ruins are open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last entrance is at 3 p.m.

What are you going to see in Coba?

Coba’s archaeological area is pretty expansive and consists of several areas connected by sac-bes, or white routes. The first part is called Grupo Coba and is located shortly past the entrance to the archaeological area.

Here you will see the el Castillo Pyramid as well as several stelae, some of which have inscribed Mayan images. Right nearby, you can also find a court for the ancient Mayan ball game.

The second part is Nohoch Mul , where you can find the namesake pyramid, which is also the tallest structure in this archaeological area.

FUN FACT: Nohoch Mul is one of the tallest pyramids in the Yucatan, and was built during several periods. Unfortunately, it’s been closed for climbing, but you can admire it from the distance.

And the third part is called Grupo Macanxoc , the most remote part of this archaeological area.

How to explore Coba ruins

This archaeological area covers more than 30 square miles or 80 square kilometers, and there’s a lot to explore here, so make sure to set aside enough time for your visit the ruins.

You can walk around on your own, or you can hire a guide at the entrance. Additionally, you can also come here on a guided tour. Guided tours of the area typically include stops at nearby cenotes and some other archaeological areas.

If you have extra time, exploring the area on foot is an excellent idea. You will begin at the entrance of the archaeological area and arrive at the fork where you can continue either to Nochoch Mul or to a different area. You can visit these parts in any sequence, just keep in mind that you will need some extra water if you decide to walk.

✅ Taking a bici taxi

Does walking a few miles (or kilometers) sounds like a daunting task? You can hire a bici taxi on-site. A local driver will get you from the entrance to whatever place you want to visit. But make sure to bring enough cash, if you decide to go this route.

✅ Renting a bicycle

The best option, in my opinion, is renting a bicycle! This will allow you to explore the site at your pace but also get around much faster than by walking. Renting a bike to explore the ruins will save you a ton of time, and help to beat the crowds. You can rent a bicycle for about 50 Pesos in cash on the spot.

✅ Hiring a guide on the spot

After you pay for the entrance, you can hire a local guide on the spot. This is an excellent way to learn the history of the area and get insight into the Mayan culture. Plus, you will also help to support the local economy, as most of these guides live in local towns and rely on tourism for their income.

Coba Ruins Mexico: Things To Know Before Visiting

As with other Mayan ruins in Mexico, there are a few things you should know before planning your trip to the ruins. Here are some of my top tips for visiting this archaeological area.

➡️ Visit early

This is true if you are visiting during the high season which is from December through March, but in general, it’s better to visit early morning before the archaeological area gets crowded. This is also true for many other ruins.

➡️ Bring bug repellent

Bugs can be pretty bad when you walk around the jungle, so put on some repellent before leaving your hotel.

➡️ Wear comfortable shoes

Although the main pyramid Nohoch Mul, is closed for climbing as of 2023, you still should put on comfortable shoes because you will spend some time on your feet while exploring this area.

➡️ Don’t forget about water

Coba stretches over several kilometers, which means you will need to do some walking or bicycling. Make sure to bring some water, because you will likely get thirsty.

➡️ Hire a guide

If you are visiting Yucatan for the first time, it’s a good idea to hire a guide at the entrance. This is an excellent way to get a grasp of the Yucatec culture and history aside from learning about this archaeological area.

Coba Cenotes

After visiting Coba ruins, head over to cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with fresh water and can be found all over Yucatan. Coba Cenotes are just slightly north of the ruins and take about 5 minutes to reach if you have a rental car.

PRO TIP: Coba is not the only place where you can find cenotes. The entire peninsula has thousands of gorgeous cenotes! Check my complete guide to the best cenotes near Tulum.

Coba cenotes price

You can pay 300 pesos and visit all three cenotes or just 100 Pesos for each. All payments have to be made in cash at the entrance. All cenotes are open from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.

TIP ON VISITING : As with many popular cenotes in Yucatan , these cenotes are the busiest from around 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Visit them either early morning before touring the ruins, or in the late afternoon after the ruins and some lunch.

Cenote Tamcach-Ha

A closed underground cenote, Tamcach-Ha has two diving platforms (5 and 10 meters each) from where you can jump into the crystal-clear water.

To get inside cenote Tamcach-Ha, you have to make your way down a steep ladder, and once you are there, you will see impressive stalactites hanging from the ceiling. This is a deeper cenote that has a round shape and is popular for snorkeling and swimming and you can also spot many bats here.

Cenote Choo-Ha

Choo-Ha is a shallow cenote with impressive stalagmites that is great for taking photos and relaxing. You will not find deep water or cool diving platforms here, but it boasts nice clear water that is good for snorkeling.

PRO TIP: All Coba cenotes are underground, which means there’s no natural light here. If you want to take photos, you will need to have the right settings in your camera.

Cenote Multun-Ha

Cenote Multun-Ha is the most popular of all cenotes near Coba because it offers a big area for swimming and incredible crystal clear water that allows you to see the bottom. This is a busy cenote, so my advice is to start your tour of cenotes with a stop at Multun-Ha before it gets busy.

To get inside the cenote, you can either jump or get in from the ladder in the water.

Best time to visit Coba cenotes

Although Coba cenotes see fewer visitors than cenotes near Tulum it still can get a bit busy here. Come here either early morning when they open, or late in the afternoon after you visit this aracheological area when most people leave.

GOOD TO KNOW: Since Coba is a bit of distance from Tulum, consider spending the night here, especially if you are traveling by public transportation. Coba is a small town, but it has a couple of hotels in the area such as

Where to stay near Coba ruins

Coba is one of the most popular day trips from Tulum, but it’s also a perfect stop along your Yucatan itinerary if you are continuing your trip toward Valladolid. The town of Coba is nice and quiet and there are several hotels where you can spend one night before continuing your travel.

• Coqui Coqui Papholchac Coba Residence & Spa – a real oasis in the middle of the jungle, this hotel is 15 minutes away by walking from the ruins. Coqui Coqui offers continental breakfast on request, a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a garden.
• Kaan Coba – If you need to regenerate after spending your day exploring and jumping in cenotes, head to this gorgeous hotel with a swimming pool, a garden, terrace and gorgeous aesthetic. Guests leave rave reviews for this property, so it’s definitely worth a stay!
• Hotel Sacbe Coba – a great budget-friendly option for travelers on the road, Hotel Sacbe sits 1,000 feet from Cobá archaeological site and 350 feet away from Cobá Lagoon. It offers a restaurant with regional dishes, a garden and an on-site mini market.

Where to eat near Coba ruins

You will find several local restaurants at the entrance to the archeological area. Here you can taste delicious food at great prices much lower than in popular places like Tulum or even Playa del Carmen.

The best restaurants in Coba

• Restaurante Chile Picante – some of the best Yucatec food I’ve ever tried and the prices are unbeatable!
• Nicte Ha – Yummy homemade food and classic Mexican staples with a beautiful view of the lagoon
• El Faisan – If you want to try authentic Mayan food, stop at El Faisan near the entrance to Coba

Coba Ruins Mexico: FAQ’s

Which is better Tulum or Coba?

Tulum ruins are famous for their setting along the Caribbean Coast and were a major stop along the Mayan trade route. Coba ruins are more remote, more spread out and have more shade. Its location away from the coast also means there are fewer visitors, which is great if you are looking for something less touristy .

Coba ruins are in the jungle, so you don’t have to walk under the scorching sun the whole time. Coba isn’t as crowded as Tulum ruins, even though this archaeological area is becoming more popular. Coba is also less developed than Tulum, which gives it a more rustic feel.

PRO TIP: Want to explore more archaeological areas in the region? Check my complete guide to some of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico .

Is Coba or Chichen Itza better?

Coba is better if you are looking for a relaxing time in the jungle with fewer visitors. But if you want to scratch one of the Seven Wonders of The World off your bucket list, you should visit Chichen Itza.

Are Coba ruins worth it?

Yes, these ruins are worth a stop. It’s beautiful archaeological area located in the jungle that boasts the tallest pyramid in Yucatan. Set aside at least half a day to explore the ruins and enjoy the nearby cenotes.

How far is Tulum from Coba?

Coba ruins are about 50 kilometers away from Tulum. It makes for a perfect day trip from Tulum, as you can reach this archaeological area from Tulum by car in about 45 minutes.

How to get to Coba from Tulum?

As mentioned above, you can visit Coba from Tulum either by bus or by rental car. The earliest bus from Tulum to Coba leaves at 7:20 a.m. from the main bus terminal in Tulum. The ticket costs 50 Pesos one way. If you want to check a complete bus schedule for the day, you can do it at ado.mx

There are also several return buses from Coba to Tulum, and depending on the day, their schedules can vary. Check their departure time before leaving for the day.

To check schedule of ADO buses, go directly to ADO website.

How to get to Coba from Playa Del Carmen

Since there’s no direct bus from Coba to Playa Del Carmen, you will need to first travel from Playa Del Carmen to Tulum, and from Tulum to Coba. It takes one hour to get from Playa Del Carmen to Tulum, and another hour to get from Tulum to Coba. This is a long trip by bus, so if you want to visit Coba from Playa Del Carmen, I recommend you rent a car in Cancun after landing.

Although you will pay more for a car rental, you will save a lot of time on the road.

How to get to Coba from Cancun

Just like with Playa Del Carmen , there’s no direct bus between Cancun and Coba. It’s easier to get to Tulum first and from there, go to Coba. If you are staying in Cancun and want to visit Coba, it’s better to rent a car, than rely on public transportation.

✅ This tour from Cancun is very popular! 😃

Final thoughts

Coba ruins are a beautiful, less-visited archaeological area less than one hour away from Tulum. It’s a perfect alternative to some of the most popular Mayan ruins in Yucatan that are visited by thousands of visitors every day. Combine your trip to the ruins with a stop at the nearby cenotes and spend the night in one of the hotels in the area to have the ultimate getaway 😊

Other articles to help you plan your travels

Check some of my articles on the topic:

• 30 Best Places To Visit In Yucatan On Your Next Trip
• Cancun To Tulum – 6 Best Transportation Options And Tips
• Your Most Complete Travel Guide To Bacalar
• Mahahual – Best Place To Visit In Mexico’s Costa Maya
• Top Tips For Mexico Travel

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• Country Comparisons
• Digital Nomad Cookbook
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Coba Travel Guide: How to Get to the Coba Ruins from Tulum

Posted by Di Minardi | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links. 

There is so much conflicting information on the web about how to visit the Coba Ruins.

While researching my trip from Tulum to Coba, I found myself asking: Can you still climb the Coba Ruins? Is there a collectivo to the Coba Ruins? How can you visit the Coba Ruins from Tulum (without a rental car or crazy expensive tour)?

Luckily, I have all the answers for ya right here. This indepth Tulum to Coba Travel Guide includes all the info you need to know about:

• History of the Coba Ruins
• 4 ways to get from Tulum to Coba (without a car rental)
• Can you still climb the Coba ruins?
• How to explore the Coba ruins by foot, by bike, and by cart
• Coba ruins cost
• Coba ruins hours + travel tips
• Tulum to Coba day trip packing list
• Best restaurants near the Coba ruins
• How to swim in cenotes at the Coba ruins

How to get from Coba to Tulum

• Best places to stay in Tulum
• And much more!

Daniel and I took a day trip to Coba from Tulum and visited the nearby cenotes and had an awesome time.

Follow this step-by-step guide to get from Tulum to Coba without a tour, explore the ruins, eat an unforgettable lunch, take a dip in the underground cenotes, and get back to your hotel in Tulum all in one piece!

View of the jungle from the top of the Nohoch Mul pyramid

History of the Coba Ruins + 6 Coba Facts

The coba ruins history is pretty crazy. Knowing a few basic Coba ruins facts before you go will help you make the most of your trip and truly appreciate what you’re seeing!

1. The ruins were built by the Mayans

2. They may have been settled as early as 50 BC, they were used mostly between 200 and 900 AD (meaning they’re almost 2,000 years old!)

3. Coba was home to about 50,000 Mayans at the city’s peak

4. The ruins cover about 30 square miles

5. Coba was maintained until the Spanish arrived in Mexico in the 1400s

6. Major excavations didn’t begin until the 1970s and the Coba ruins became a tourist destination in the 1980s

If you want to learn more about the Coba ruins before your visit, the Coba Wikipedia page is a great place to get started along with the Coba entry in the Encyclopedia Brittanica and the official Coba Ruins website from the Mexico Government.

Never met a ruin I didn’t like, and Coba is no exception!

4 Ways to Get from Tulum to Coba (without a car)

The Coba Ruins are about 50 km / 45 minute drive from Tulum, which makes them an easy day trip from the beachside town.

Even better, Mexico has fabulous tourist infrastructure so there’s no need to rent a car to get from Tulum to Coba and the Coba cenotes.

Instead, explore your options and use the info below to visit the Coba Ruins from Tulum by collectivo, bus, taxi, or guided tour on your trip.

1. Colectivo from Tulum to Coba

The first thing that comes to mind when traveling in Mexico is grabbing a colectivo on the street, right?

A lot of forums discussing how to visit the Coba Ruins mention a collectivo, and after some research I found that there is a Tulum to Coba colectivo, but it’s probably not your best option.

You can find the collectivo to the Coba ruins is located on the corner of Tulum Ave (the main highway) and Calle Osiris Nte .

Unfortunately, I’m not sure about either the price or times that it runs. It was definitely there early in the morning around 7 am when we were headed to the bus station, and is easy to spot because it’s a large van with “Tulum – Coba” written on it.

The collectivo to the Coba Ruins is only a five-minute walk from the bus station, so my advice is to just check it out on your way to the bus. If it’s there, jump on, if not, continue to the bus station.

Julie shares more helpful info about her experience with the collectivo in the comments, scroll down to read more!

2. Mayab and ADO bus from Tulum to Coba

Right now, the best option to get to the Coba Ruins from Tulum is by bus.  I highly recommend getting the first bus out at 7:20 am to avoid the crowds.

The bus leaves from the Terminal Autobuses Tulum ADO station – click here to find it on Google Maps. 

The brand is Mayab, which is the ‘second class’ ADO branc and just means it’s a little cheaper and slower. The cost for the one-way ticket to the Coba Ruins (you’ll be on the Valladolid Route) is 50 mxn / 2.63 usd per person and the drive takes about an hour.

If you don’t want to get on the 7:20 am bus to Coba, there are more out about every hour. The only problem is the second class Mayab buses aren’t listed online.

Because of that, your best bet is to go to the ADO bus station (click here to find the Tulum ADO station on Google Maps) and check out the timetables they have on the wall to find the best one for your schedule. You can also ask your hostel to call and ask for you.

If you want to spend a little more, you can also take the first class ADO bus from Tulum to Coba.

These are almost three times the price but the schedule is online . Just remember to search from Tulum to Valladolid rather than to Coba because Valladolid is the end destination of the route and will turn up more options.

3. Taxi from Tulum to the Coba Ruins

Don’t feel like dealing with buses and timetables?

Then you can also take a taxi from Coba to Tulum.  Obviously, this is the most expensive option, but also the easiest.

I know the taxis from Coba to Tulum have a set price of 450 mxn / 23.66 usd for the trip , so I assume the way out from Tulum to Coba should be a similar price. Of course, always try to negotiate!

4. How to Visit the Coba Ruins by Guided Tour

Finally, if all of this is starting to sound like a headache, consider just booking a guided tour to the site. There are a bunch of Tulum tours and guided activities on Airbnb to choose from like this tour and this tour with sunset at the ruins.

120 steps lead to the top of Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid and main attraction in the Coba Ruins

Can You Still Climb the Coba Ruins?

The largest pyramid in the Coba compound is called Nohoch Mul, and it stand at an impressive at 137 feet tall.

As you can see from the photos, when I visited you could still climb it, but its since been closed to the public. This is probably for the best, but don’t worry: the Coba ruins are still worth visiting! 

Did I mention you should bring comfortable shoes?

How to explore the Coba Ruins by foot, by bike, or by cart

The Coba ruins are made up of multiple major areas spread across multiple kilometers of hiking trails through the park.

Nohoch Mul is the highlight and my second favorite area of the Coba Ruins was the Grupo Macanxoc, but you can also explore the Coba Group, the Conjunto de Pinturas, and more.

The paths are easy to follow to every part of the ruins, and it’s not difficult to see it all without a map or guide (although you can hire one at the entrance to tell you more about the site).

Coba ruins by foot: We chose to explore by foot, and certainly got our exercise. Nohoch Mul is about 2 km from the entrance, and other parts of the park are even farther.

Coba ruins by bike: Bikes are one of the most popular ways to explore the Coba ruins because they’re pretty budget-friendly and will help you see more, faster. You can rent bikes in Coba after you enter the park. They cost 50 mxn /  2.63 usd per person.

Coba ruins by cart tour: There are also bike carts for rent at the Coba ruins. This is kind of nice because you don’t have to think about where to go next or make sure you see it all – instead, simply sit back and relax on the cart and your guide will take you to all the major sites.

Cart tours through Coba cost 150 mxn /  7.89 usd for a 1 hour and 20-minute tour.

Lots of people choose to explore the Coba ruins by bike, we decided to do it on foot this time around

How Much Does it Cost to Visit the Coba Ruins?

Coba ruins admission is is 70 mxn / 3.68 usd per person.

However, the ruins also charge a “video” fee. If you want to bring in a Go Pro or shoot video, you’ll have to pay an extra 45 mxn / 2.37 usd for the priveledge. Luckily, photos are still free (for now).

It’s pretty weird, but I don’t really mind because the money is going to support the upkeep of the site.

Coba Ruins Hours + The Best Time to Visit

The Coba ruins are open every day from 8 am to 5 pm.

The last entrance is every day at 4:30 but I strongly recommend going early and arriving right at 8 am.

The ruins get pretty crowded, and most days in Mexico get pretty hot. If you want to get nice photos of the site or enjoy the view in peace, you need to be at the ruins around opening time.

The most magical part of the ruins is wandering the secluded tree-lined walkways and exploring the different sites, imagining what life was like when it was a bustling Mayan city. Being packed in with 100 people while you do it is gonna ruin the experience a bit.

On our trip, we spent 8:30 to 11 am exploring the ruins, and when we left the lines to enter were long and it was a madhouse.

The jungle pathway to Grupo Macanxoc

What To Pack For A Day Trip to the Coba Ruins from Tulum

When we visited the Coba Ruins we left our hostel in Tulum around 6:30 am and didn’t return until about 5 pm. It was definitely a long day, so I packed my favorite small day pack with:

• Water bottles (especially if you go in the summer months)
• Snacks (always)
• I wore flip flops but there’s a lot of walking and bike riding so you may want to consider hiking boots as well.
• Swimsuit for a dip in the nearby cenotes
• Camera or GoPro – we use this cheap underwater camera
• Cash for buses and the entrance fee
• Biodegradable sunscreen for the cenotes ( buy it here or pick it up at Walmart in Playa del Carmen)

If you want to feel like a real life explorer, the Coba ruins are a must for your Tulum itinerary.

Best Restaurants at the Coba Ruins

We were hungry when we left the Coba Ruins so we stopped for an early lunch. Little did I know I was about to eat one of the best meals I had in Mexico!

Definitely don’t miss El Faisan restaurant in the parking lot of the Coba Ruins.

When you’re there order the poc-chuc, a traditional Mayan pork dish. It was honestly one of the most delicious pieces of pork I’ve ever had.

I just pointed to a picture on the menu cause it looked good, and it totally blew me away. It was really flavorful and came with a bean dip, chips, guac, tortillas, and rice. Try it, you’ll love it.

The cenotes near Coba are the perfect place to cool off after exploring the ruins

How to Swim in Cenotes Near the Coba Ruins

After the ruins, it’s time to cool down at the nearby cenotes. Cenotes are underground caves and swimming holes that are all around the Riviera Maya, and Tulum and the Coba ruins are no exception!

You can rent a bike from the shop near the Coba Ruins entrance and ride it to three cenotes:

I have a lot of info to share on how to get from Coba to the cenotes, how much they cost, and extra tips you need to know, so I wrote a separate post.

Learn how to combine the Coba Ruins with a swim in three nearby cenotes to complete your day trip from Tulum!

The two easiest ways to get from Coba to Tulum are by taxi or by bus. Taxis are faster but more expensive than the ADO bus, and will run you about 450 mxn / 24 usd for the 45-minute trip.

The ADO bus from Coba to Tulum takes about an hour but is also much cheaper.

To get back to Tulum after exploring the Coba ruins, go to the storefront selling ADO bus tickets (they have a huge sign) near the entrance to the Coba parking lot. They’ll tell you the schedule and sell you tickets for the bus you want.

When I went, we had the option to take the first-class ADO bus back to Tulum from Coba at 3:10 pm for 86 mxn / 4.50 usd per person. Or, if you want more time at the ruins or the cenotes, you can wait until 5 pm or 7 pm for the second class Mayab bus.

Tubo Tulum Hostel

Bonus: Where to Stay in Tulum

I stayed in the Tubo Tulum hostel and loved it!

The little tube homes tucked into the jungle scenery are so unique, and they also have even cheaper accommodation in tents with mattresses and electricity.

Plus, they had their own bike rentals which was super convenient and our stay came with free breakfast and the chance to meet the owner’s tiny, brand new puppy, what more can I say?

It was perfect.

The layout of Tulum is kind of weird though and the town and restaurants are not on the water.

So, when you go to Tulum you need to decide if you’d rather stay right on the beach (more expensive and resorty) or near the town. Most places have bikes to make traveling between the two easier.

The Beach Tulum is one of the top-rated hotels on the waterfront because it’s adults-only and offers picture-perfect rooms from private dip pools on each terrace! La Valise Tulum is another top-rated hotel on the beachfront while Biwa Tulum is a guest-favorite in town.

For the budget-minded, Tubo Tulum offers great value for the money in their double-tents, and the X’keken Hostel is another great budget-friendly choice, especially for solo travelers, with dorm beds for only $7 per night as well.

Ready to go?

Explore unique stays on Airbnb – like this glass-topped treehouse in the jungle or this Insta-worthy Airstream – and the top-rated hotels on Booking.com to plan the perfect night, weekend, or long-term stay in Tulum.

Then, check out more food, culture, and outdoor experiences in Tulum to round out your itinerary!

This article is part of the Riveting Riviera Maya series. Read the rest below:

How to Visit the 3 Coba Cenotes Near Tulum

How to Swim With the Turtles in Playa del Carmen

Everything You Need to Know to Visit Bacalar, Mexico

Then, explore the complete Mexico Series for more to insider tips on what to see, do, eat, drink, and discover in Playa del Carmen and beyond!

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Did you know every time you read an article on Slight North, you're also planting trees for the monarchs in Mexico? Start here to learn more about our mission and how to get the most out of the site!

11 Comments

Thanks for the very interesting and precise article! You did a great job putting all this info together…we’ll visit Tulum at the beginning of July and we are just planning how to get to Coba and back. I have two more questions for you: is the Mayab bus safe? By using the Mayab bus and then coming back with the ADO bus you mentioned, would it be possible to also see a cenote in the surroundings? In many organized trips they propose coba+cenote. Thanks in advance!

You’re welcome, glad I can help! The Mayab busses seemed safe to me, I think they are run through the same company as ADO.

Also, yes you can do the ruins and cenotes in one day. We left Tulum on the 7:20 am bus, visited the ruins and 2 of the cenotes, and then went back to Tulum on the 3:10 ADO bus. If you want to visit all three cenotes you can take the 5 pm bus back to Tulum.

You can read more details about our visit to the cenotes here –> https://slightnorth.com/diy-cenote-day-trip/

Thanks so much for your reply! I’ll do it in the next days.

This was very helpful. As an update we went September 2018 so we were in low season. From Tulum we took a collectivo for $70 pesos per person to Coba. We had to wait for about 45 minutes in Tulum as we had to wait until we had a minimum of 8 people. Once we left we Tulumt for Coba we turned around and went back to Tulum to pick up 4 more people so it was a little bit of a hassle. Once we left the ruins we saw a couple much younger than us ask a person with a car if they could get a ride to Tulum. We are too old to hitchhike but I thought it was brilliant. We found that there were not collectives on the way back but as you stated there was a bus around 3:30pm which we considered. A taxi driver stopped and asked if we wanted a ride to Tulum. We agreed on $350 pesos to get back to the Super Aki in Tulum.

Hey Julie, thanks so much for sharing this info! I’m sure others taking this trip will find it helpful.

Hi, thanks much for sharing the details. Did you get see any ado buses from COBA to Valladolid in the evening time? Am planning to do a trip in December

I’m not sure because I left Coba at 3, but try checking the official ADO website and looking for Coba to Valladolid routes or Tulum to Valladolid routes at night.

Great in-dept article! Just what I needed. I am headed to Tulum and Bacalar next week. I will try to come back and update pricing if any of the items you mentioned have changed. 🙂

Awesome, that would be super appreciated! Have a great time!

Thanks for the awesome tips. I’m in Playa at the moment and plan to go to Coba very soon! =) Thanks

You’re welcome! Glad I could help – you’re going to have an awesome time!

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12 Essential Tips for Visiting the Coba Ruins in Quintana Roo, Mexico

by Taylor On A Trip | Apr 6, 2020 | Mexico , North America , Travel , Uncategorized | 0 comments

If you’re looking for the best tips for visiting the Coba Ruins in Mexico, then you’ve come to the right place.

Visiting the Coba Ruins in Mexico is one of the best things to do on the Yucatan Peninsula, but whether or not you properly prepare to visit can make or break your day.

I had the pleasure of visiting the Coba Ruins on my recent trip to Mexico, and despite making some easily avoidable mistakes while visiting the ruins, I loved my experience and highly recommend planning a trip yourself.

So, to keep you from making the same mistakes I did, I compiled this list of tips for visiting the Coba ruins, along with some essential info for planning your trip. And while you’re here, bookmark my Coba ruins safety guide !

Let’s dive in!

12 Tips for Visiting the Coba Ruins in Mexico

Go Early in the Day or Late in the Afternoon

So, here’s the thing.

No matter what time of day you visit the Coba ruins, it’s going to be quite toasty. Of course, I went in late August and it was VERY toasty, but it’s hard to really beat the heat in this part of Mexico.

That said, arriving early in the day or later in the afternoon is your best bet for staying as comfortable as possible. However, because this part of Mexico can be so humid — and due to the fact that you’ll be quite literally in the jungle — daily rains are expected.

Of course, this depends on the time of year you travel to the Yucatan, but I went there in August / September and the torrential downpours were pretty much daily. Bring an umbrella!

Plus, the tour buses tend to arrive around noon. Arriving earlier or later will at least help you skip the crowds.

Don’t Go On Sunday

While the Coba ruins are undoubtedly less visited than their Tulum Ruins and Chichen Itza counterparts, the site can get pretty packed during tourist season, especially on Sundays.

This is because Mexican residents have free access to museums and historical sites on Sundays, and they make use of that perk. I mean, I totally would too.

So, to have a calmer experience while at Coba (especially if you want to climb Ixmoja), visit on a day that isn’t Sunday.

Bring Lots of Water

Unlike Chichen Itza, where there are places inside the grounds to purchase water, once you’re in Coba, there really aren’t many resources (I think I saw one overpriced water/pop stall in total).

I recommend bringing at least a couple of water bottles with you for your day at the site. Dehydration and heat stroke are super common for people not used to the Mexican heat, and you’re going to want to stay as safe and healthy as possible.

In addition to this, something I really wish I had during my entire trip to the Yucatan was an ice pack.

For the really hot days, being able to stick an ice pack under my shirt, on my forehead, or in my backpack would have been a godsend, and it’s something I mentioned multiple times during my time in Mexico.

Photo by Ashley Senja

Bring Enough Cash

Something that can catch tourists unaware is the reliance on cash in Mexico. While there are plenty of ATMs pretty much everywhere you go, I’d recommend only using ATMs at (or inside) actual banks, and then taking enough cash for a full day of exploring.

Between catching the bus, paying the Coba entrance fee, having lunch, and any other expenditures, I’d recommend bringing at least 1000 pesos. I know that sounds high, and you likely won’t use it all, but this amount will prepare you for anything.

In total, I spent about 500 pesos on my day at Coba.

If It’s Hot, Take a Bike Taxi

Speaking of extra expenditures and heat (I really don’t handle heat well, can’t you tell?) if you find it’s too hot to walk around the paths, or you just want a more leisurely experience, there are plenty of bikes and bike taxis for rent.

There’s nothing like someone else doing the peddling while you fan yourself in the backseat.

Just be sure to bring some extra pesos for the ride!

📚 Read More: Tulum, Mexico Travel Guide: Tips For Planning Your Dream Trip

For The Best Views, Climb

As I mentioned above, climbing the 120 steps of the main pyramid — Ixmoja at Nohoch Mul — is one of the most popular things to do at Coba, and it’s the only pyramid you can climb in the Yucatan.

At 137 feet, the views from the top are incredible — think a landscape of lush jungle for days — and you’ll feel super accomplished once you get to the top.

Just keep in mind that the steps of Coba are very uneven and can be narrow, but there is a rope up the middle of the pyramid to help you get up and down.

NOTE: Due to COVID-19 the Ixmoja is closed to climbers. If and when the pyramid will be open for climbing remains unknown.

… But Don’t Feel Pressured To

Okay, so here’s where I tip you off on a little secret of mine. Although climbing the main pyramid at Coba is the most famous and impressive thing to do at the site, I didn’t actually do it.

I mean, I started to do it — I’d say I got about a quarter of the way up, in fact. But then, I turned around and climbed back down.

You see, I had to listen to my gut on this one. I just knew that if I kept going, there was a very serious chance that I was going to pass out from heatstroke and fall to my death (kidding, but not kidding). I was already pouring sweat, my face was as red as a beet, and I had already teetered very close to heat exhaustion on this Mexico trip before.

Of course, I didn’t know for sure that this would happen, but at that moment it felt like a very real possibility.

My friend made it to the top that day, though. And she showed me some amazing photos when she made it back down.

All I’m saying is that you can climb the pyramid or not, but truly don’t feel pressured either way!

Take a Tour

If you feel that you’d get a greater experience at the Coba ruins by taking a guided tour, then by all means, book one! To do this, you can either take a day trip from your accommodation and not have to worry about transportation, or you can head to Coba yourself and hire a guide at the gates.

There will be plenty of guides around when you first get there, and they’ll each ask you if you’re looking for a tour — so finding someone to show you around couldn’t be easier!

Just keep in mind that some guides have fixed rates, but some are open to negotiation. If the first price quoted to you doesn’t sound reasonable, then don’t feel bad to suggest a price that you’re more comfortable with. Just always negotiate and set the price before your tour starts.

🔥 Fun alert! This highly-rated Coba tour from the Riviera Maya includes round-trip transportation, a stop at a cenote, and a guided tour of the site!

Expect Wildlife

As with everywhere in the Yucatan peninsula, wildlife is abundant at Coba. Here, you’ll technically be in the middle of the jungle and as such, you’ll see a ton of iguanas, exotic birds, geckos, and weird bugs.

Sightings of more eyebrow-raising animals such as pumas, jaguars, and snakes have also been seen here, although they tend to stay away from where they know humans are and I didn’t personally hear of anything of the sort. That said, if you venture to the lagoons, you’ll 100% be in crocodile territory. There are signs everywhere warning you of crocs hiding in the tall grasses, so definitely heed this warning and stay away.

Plan for Lunch Nearby

Instead of packing a lunch for your adventure at Coba, I recommend stopping at a local restaurant for some Mexican fare. Personally, I had some fish tacos at a restaurant called Ki-Hanal, and I highly recommend it.

Other top-rated restaurants in the area include El Cocodrilo, Tacos Mexicanos, and El Faisan.

Use the Bathroom Before You Enter

As mentioned above, there are limited resources once you enter through the gates at Coba, so I highly recommend you use the bathroom before you enter.

Of course, you’ll likely be sweating your butt off while here and staying hydrated will be of the essence, but still, it’s better to be safe than sorry. The bathrooms at the gates do cost some pesos, so make sure you have change on you.

Cool Off in a Cenote After

After a long day exploring in the sun, there’s nothing like cooling off in a refreshing cenote.

Cenotes are freshwater limestone sinkholes that are scattered around the Yucatan peninsula — and there are three close to the site of Coba.

👉 Cenote Choo-Ha features beautiful blue water, stalactites hanging from the ceiling, and is fairly shallow. You’ll have to descend into the cenote via some narrow steps that lead you into the large cavern of the cenote.

👉 Cenote Tamcach-Ha is much deeper than Choo-Ha (it’s great if you want to scuba or snorkel) and there are jumping platforms if you’re feeling up to some adventure. Like Choo-Ha, you’ll access the cenote via some very steep (and quite slippery) steps.

👉 Cenote Multun-Ha is the farthest away from Coba of the three but features a great wooden deck to lounge around on. Also, like the other two, there is a narrow entranceway and a lot of stairs.

Read More: 10 Essential Tips for Visiting Cenotes in Mexico

What are the Coba Ruins?

The Coba Ruins (Coba meaning ‘waters stirred by the wind’) date back to the 1st century AD and were one of the most important Mayan communities on the Yucatan Peninsula.

The site consists of multiple settlements all connected by ceremonial white roads that lead to the main pyramid, Ixmoja at Nohoch Mul. Due to this layout, the site of Coba is different from other ancient Mayan cities, as instead of being one settlement, it consists of many individual ones grouped together.

In fact, Coba is so expansive it’s estimated that 6,000 structures exist at the site and that, at its peak, it was home to around 50 000 residents.

Archeologists first discovered Coba in the mid-1800s and it was opened for public viewing in 1973. Today, only three settlements are open for public exploration, due to the inability of archaeologists to excavate much of it, and because of its sheer size.

Coba is located right in the middle of the jungle and is surrounded by two lagoons and plenty of cenotes (freshwater sinkholes).

While wandering around the parts of Coba open to visitors, you’ll see three unique settlements, a spiritual area, two ball courts (the history of these is pretty grisly tbh), plenty of jungle paths, and the highest pyramid in the Yucatan — Ixmoja at Nohoch Mul.

📚 Read More: 12 Essential Tips for Visiting Chichen Itza in Mexico

How Much Does Coba Cost?

At the time of writing this, the entrance fee to the Coba ruins is 75 pesos for non-Mexicans which, compared to other Mayan sites in the Yucatan, is quite good.

If you drive, there is a parking lot just outside of the Coba gates as well that costs 50 pesos.

How to Get to the Coba Ruins

Located about an hour inland from Tulum, there are a few ways to get to the Coba Ruins:

👉 Way #1 – ADO Bus

When my friend and I decided to head out to Coba for a day, we did so by catching the ADO bus from Playa del Carmen (ADO is the premier bus company in this part of Mexico, and you can expect the buses to be prompt and clean). The bus made a pit stop in Tulum, was 240 pesos return, and took about 2 hours each way. To purchase tickets, you’ll have to go to the desk at your local ADO station.

I will say though that the bus dropped us off in a really weird spot when we got to Coba. It was essentially just outside of a nondescript restaurant with no bus marker in sight, and we had to open Google Maps and walk about 15 minutes to get to the Coba gates.

My recommendation is to take a photo of the restaurant where the bus drops you off, as this is where you’ll be boarding the bus when you leave Coba.

👉 Way #2 – Drive 

To be honest, while driving in Mexico is something that tons of people told me they’ve done with no issues, I was very hesitant to do so. In my experience, drivers can be quite erratic on the roads, and I felt way more secure just taking the bus.

That said, car rentals in Mexico are quite affordable, the roads are well marked, and getting to Coba will be fairly straightforward.

Just beware of the speed bumps (called topes in Spanish)!

👉 Way #3 – Tour

There are plenty of tours from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum that will take you to the Coba ruins. Just do some research and you’ll have no trouble finding a reputable one.

📚 Read More: Is Coba, Mexico Safe?

What to Pack for the Coba Ruins

♦ Day Pack: This day pack from Osprey is great for walking around Mexico. Inside the pack, you’re going to want to bring bug spray , sunscreen , pesos, a sun hat , a travel umbrella , and some energy bars.

♦ Shoes: Visiting Coba — and climbing the main pyramid — means you’re going to want sturdy, comfortable, and grippy shoes. These hiking shoes are perfect for the job.

♦ Water Bottle: A big water bottle is a must for Mexico. This 48oz Nalgene water bottle will keep you going for a while.

♦ Ice Pack: As I mentioned above, an ice pack will do wonders in keeping you cool and fend off heatstroke.

That’s it for my 12 tips for visiting the Coba Ruins in Mexico!

I hope this helped in planning your trip, and feel free to plop a comment below if you have any thoughts or questions!

Enjoy the Coba Ruins!

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Visiting the Coba Ruins: the best Mayan site near Cancun, Mexico (better than Tulum)

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: March 6, 2020  - Last updated: January 30, 2024

We love all things history and nature. And Mexico . Although we spend the most time in Baja California Sur there’s something truly unique and wonderful about the Yucatan Peninsula and the state of Quintana Roo . In addition to the pristine waters, wildlife and cenotes , the magical attraction of the Yucatan is the concentration of Mayan ruins, and visiting the Coba Ruins is really a special experience, but you need to know how to visit.

The Coba Ruins are by no means the most famous or most popular ruins on the Yucatan, but they are the most awesome to explore, especially the site called Nohoch Mul, the great pyramid. A visit to the Coba Ruins is a lesson in history , an incredible demonstration in nature, and an intense workout. Of the several sites I’ve visited for Mayan Ruins on the Yucatan, the Coba Ruins was, hands down, the best.

Which is better, Tulum or Coba?

More people visit Tulum which is much more famous than are found visiting the Coba Ruins, but it is not better. In terms of the quality of the site and access to the many ruins , both sites are very similar. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:

Ultimately I enjoyed the ruins at Coba much more than visiting Tulum. The remote location allowed for exploring more off the beaten path areas and there were fewer people overall. I also appreciated how undeveloped the area around Coba is. Yes, it’s still set up to handle a good number of tourists, but it’s not crazy like Tulum.

I think that between the experience at the actual site and the addition sites/natural attractions along the way, Coba is a better use of time than Tulum.

How to get to the Coba Ruins

Most people visiting the Yucatan Peninsula arrive either via a flight into Cancun (CUN) or via a cruise ship. That’s how I first visited Quintana Roo, was via the Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas. Exploring on my own afforded me much more time to break away from the tourist areas and led me to the best off the beaten path Mayan Ruins on the Yucatan: the Coba Ruins. This is what Mexico is all about.

Nearly two hours from Cancun or an hour from Tulum , visiting the Coba Ruins takes you quite a bit off the beaten path.  They are closer to the town of Valladolid than any other destination… but then Valladolid isn’t close to anything. West of Valladolid is Mérida  and the Gulf of Mexico, but to the south and north isn’t too much else.  I made my visit to the Coba Ruins prior to catching the ferry nearly three hours away for Isla Holbox (check out the Yoga Retreat I did on Holbox!).

Tip : I rented a car from Alamo for my road trip around the Yucatan, but if that’s not your style, organized tours are available out of Tulum, Playa del Carmen or Cancun.  We prefer Olympus Tours for our group excursions when in Mexico, but there are lots of options.

For information on booking a tour to Coba Ruins, privately or with a group,  CLICK HERE .

Renting a car in Mexico

A few quick notes about renting a car in Mexico, which you probably want to do if you’re visiting the Coba ruins or doing any other sort of off the beaten path exploring:

• you DO need to get the additional insurance that will be presented to you when you get your car
• you DO need to be sure that you’ve got REALISTIC coverage but
• you DON’T need to get the most expensive coverage offered to you unless you know that you’re going to be a disaster on the open road.

If you’ve pre-booked your rental car online, even if you’ve already selected insurance, it’s very unlikely that what you’ve pre-paid/selected will cover your actual rental needs based on Mexican law. We  recommend erroring on the side of caution and being more covered than not. Yes, your credit card provides a level of coverage, as does your own insurance at home (potentially) but you STILL NEED Mexican insurance.

Short Vlog of visiting Coba, Mexico

Check out this short video for a quick view of the Coba ruins and to get some easy tips for how to visit. After you watch, read the rest of the article for more information. 🙂

Visiting Coba Ruins Archaeological Park

The first impressions of the the Coba Ruins are by no means epic.  You arrive in a parking lot which costs a few pesos to park in, you’re faced with maybe doing a zip line before or after your visit to the ruins, there are a handful or artisan stands for purchasing Mexican handicrafts, there’s a convenience store to buy some water and Takis… and then there’s the entry to the park. Don’t get too distracted before you’re through the entry plaza.

Tip :  if you want, there are plenty of guides, approved by the Archaeological Park, who can take you to several of the sites within the park. You can pay somebody to tell you about everything if you’re interested, or you can explore on your own.

The Coba Ruins themselves are actually epic in the “OMG, this place is old and kinda creepy” sort of way, but not in the towering magical pyramids sort of way you might think… until you get to the great pyramid (read below ). The Coba Ruins are very scattered and the Archaeological Park is actually really big. It’s very helpful to understand HOW to visit Coba before you start exploring the park.

Cost for Entry to the Coba Ruins

Like with Tulum or El Rey, the cost for Coba is minimal and totally worth it. Here’s the breakdown for costs at Coba, from tickets to transport:

These prices are of course subject to change, but in general, you should expect to see these or something very similar. Prices in USD will fluctuate more, so we recommend having plenty of Pesos to make everything easier and more consistent.

Top sights to see at Coba Ruins

You could spend a whole day checking out each dig site and accessible pyramid, and just wandering through the pathways and tunnels, but you don’t need to necessarily.  The minor pyramids are really cool and have some unique characteristics to appreciate. From gravestones to calendar pieces, there are several excavated displays throughout the park, specifically around the smaller pyramids, that are pretty fascinating.

The ball courts are also fun. You can climb some of the staircases built into the ball courts, but cannot access all parts.  Wait. Ball courts? Yep! The ancient Mayans had some awesome sports that required ball courts and sporting goods, for realz. Think Zoo-Zither Car- Zay  (that’s that roller skate kind of Lacrosse and Croquet) from Dr. Suess. Actually, today it’s called the Mesoamerican Ballgame .

Minor sites with Coba Ruins

You’ll find a variety of sights within the Coba archaeological park. When you first enter the park you’ll get to see an impressive, yet small, pyramid surrounded by more structures and even tunnels you can go through. As you continue on, there are more small pyramids, mounds that haven’t been uncovered, and jungle to navigate through. There are more of the same sized pyramids like you first see near the entrance deeper into the park. Depending on how much time you want to spend exploring, you can check out each one, including the surrounding re-creations of work areas and ceremonial displays.

Note :  since Coba is an active archaeological dig site, any of the ruins could be close to tourists on any given day. The grounds are expansive, so if you cannot access the smaller pyramids or courts, just move on. There is plenty to see.

Tip :  arrive as early in the day as you can. Although the Coba Ruins are rather of off the beaten path, they still attract a lot of visitors later in the day.  Also, the temperature early on will make it easier to enjoy the sights. Tip 2 :  be sure you get and use the map provided at the ticket window. This will help you plan your route around the park as well as give you perspective about time and distances.

IDEA for how to visit Coba :  do a full day excursion with a tour guide that includes the Coba site as well as other Yucatan adventures!

The Great Pyramid of the Coba Ruins: Nohoch Mul

This is what brought me to Coba in the first place. A friend had recommended Coba because there is a very tall pyramid that you can actually climb. I didn’t even know how to plan a visit on my own when I first heard about being able to climb an ancient Mayan pyramid, but I had to figure it out. I built out my full Yucatan road trip plan around getting to climb the pyramid and had to allot enough time for it.  Thank goodness I researched and mapped out my full itinerary on Google maps , because it made it so I had enough time.

Tip :  to ensure enough time to explore the full Coba Ruins site, including climbing the pyramid, map out everything you want to check out in the middle of the Yucatan and design a full day around it. You can actually do the Coba ruins, a few cenotes, AND Valladolid in one day if you’re really staying on schedule.

Getting to the great pyramid was kind of a shock/surprise to me, even after researching how to visit Coba. It was at the very end of long winding pathways, about 1.5 miles in (seemed longer), but it was awesome.  Towering above the jungle of Coba, the Nohoch Mul pyramid rises to 137 feet tall (42 meters). You may scale it on one side, but it’s quite the workout. The stairs are steep and narrow and there’s no great spot to stop for a break on the way up.  There is a thick rope you can hold onto in the center of the pathway up, but it’s just as easy to climb unassisted with caution.

Once at the top, the view is striking: jungle for as far as the eye can see.  But what’s that? What are all of those small green hills? That’s right! All around the Coba Ruins are countless other archaeological sites that haven’t even been uncovered yet! Hundreds more pyramids, courtyards, structures and unknown history is waiting to be explored, but it’s visible from the top of the Great Pyramid, Nohoc Mul.

Tip :  be so extra careful taking pictures or selfies when you’re climbing or descending the Great Pyramid. It’s hot out, you might be a bit dizzy, and the steps are very narrow.  Don’t fall and injure yourself or other travelers.

Getting around the Coba Ruins archaeological park

You’ve got three options when it comes to getting yourself around the Coba Ruins. Whaattt?? Yeah, believe me, this site is much large than you think.  Options for getting from the entrance of the national park to the great pyramid at the end include:

Walking/hiking – there is a wide path with many sights to see along the way, but it’s FAR

Rent a bike – once inside the Coba Ruins Archaeological Zone there are bike rentals. The paths are flat and clear so riding is actually a good and time sensitive option for getting from pyramid to pyramid

Hire a bicitaxi – for a kind of amazing deal, you can hire a bicitaxi to take you from the entrance (or anywhere inside the park) to the Great Pyramid and back again. It’s about $10 USD (75 pesos as of Feb 2018) and totally worth it. Bicitaxi can carry two passengers.

Whichever method you choose don’t forget to bring plenty of water and a snack. There are no vending services within the park and you’ll be thirsty, especially when you climb the Great Pyramid… The most impressive site is the great pyramid, for sure: Nohoch Mul. Gosh, the Coba Ruins are so cool. Love it there!

Other activities near Coba

Did somebody say cenotes? The Yucatan is full of cenotes (sinkhole caves) for swimming and having adventures in. Directly around the Coba Ruins are four or five options if cenotes are your thing. Some have zip lines into them and some are very small and hidden in the jungle. Before you stop at any, do your research or ask the person manning the entrance for a preview.

Note : cenotes are usually on privately owned land and there is always a fee for visiting them for any amount of time. Do one or two, but you don’t need to visit each one. You’ll go broke visiting EVERY cenote on the Yucatan.

Another great spot to visit if you’ve come all of the way to Coba is the town of Valladolid. It’s about twenty-five minutes from the Coba Ruins and is still relatively untouched when it comes to tourists. The town is very colorful and very walkable. In the middle of Valladolid there’s actually an enormous cenote that’s perfect for jumping into. It’s not the best with little kids because of the high jump-offs, but it’s really cool to check out with its stalactites and awesome bat population. Also, the town of Valladolid is FULL of Volkswagons. It’s the VW Beetle destination you’ve been looking for.

Check out our Complete Yucatan Road Trip plan for more ideas !

Aren’t you totally ready to go visit the Coba Ruins now? Even though this is a lot of information and pictures, there’s much more to explore and experience than what’s shared here.  If you have any questions or want to share any tips with us or our readers, leave us a comment or send us a note !

Don’t forget to pin this for you own travel planning for the Yucatan . The Coba Ruins aren’t to be missed…so don’t miss them!

Tuesday 29th of March 2022

Currently here, March 2022. Loved the Coba Ruins, entrance 100 pecos, rent a hired tricycle for two 140 pecos and tip! And NO climbing possible.

Wednesday 30th of March 2022

Oh no! I'll update my article. I will research when they're reopening it to climbing.

Coba Ruins, Mexico: A Complete Guide

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024

Categories Mexico , North America

The Mayan Coba Ruins might not be as famous as Chichen Itza or Tulum, but have nothing to envy them. Learn all you need to know to visit these ruins (+ info and prices).

The Yucatan Peninsula is known for its incredible Mayan ruins . No trip to the region would be complete without visiting at least one archeological site.

I’m pretty sure you’ve heard of Chichen Itza and the Tulum ruins , but you might have just discovered the Coba Ruins in Quintana Roo , Mexico and you’re trying to figure out if they’re worth a visit … did I get that correctly? My answer is yes, absolutely.

At Coba you won’t find the crowds of Tulum and Chichen Itza, plus you get to climb a Mayan pyramid which is strictly forbidden in most other sites.

Check out this comprehensive guide to visiting the Coba Ruins, and discover everything there is to know about them!

Table of Contents

BEST COBA TOURS

If you prefer saving yourself the hassle of getting to Coba on your own, there are some very cool Coba Ruins day trips from the Riviera Maya that you can join. I personally visited Coba on a tour.

➤ On the Coba Ruins, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, Cenote and Mayan Family you’ll get to explore the ruins with a professional guide. Ride a bike around the site, and then head to Punta Laguna, where you’ll kayak on the lake, zipline, and hike. Cool off in a cenote, and spend time in a Mayan community. Lunch is included. ➥  BOOK IT HERE

➤ On the Coba Multun-Ha Cenote Tulum and Paradise Beach Small Group you’ll visit two archaeological sites. Tour around Coba with a professional guide, and learn about the Mayan at the Tulum Ruins. You’ll also swim in a beautiful cenote, and relax in Paradise Beach. Lunch and roundtrip transfers are included. ➥  BOOK IT HERE

➤ Choose this Tulum, Coba, & Cenote: Full-Day Tour for a historical experience like no other. You’ll visit the Riviera Maya’s most important archaeological sites, discovering the ancient civilizations. Climb the main pyramid at Coba, take part in a Mayan ceremony, and cool off in a beautiful cenote. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins Reduced Group is the perfect tour if you want to include a trip to Chichen Itza. Learn about the vast site from a guide, and cool off in Cenote Ik Kil before heading to Coba. There, climb the main pyramid to take in the jungle views. Breakfast and lunch are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Tours to Coba

➤ The Exclusive Private Tour Tulum & Coba Just for You is a 7-hour excursion. A professional guide will pick you up at your hotel and drive you to the archaeological sites of Coba and Tulum for a comprehensive tour. Learn about the Mayan civilization and the ruins’ purposes with up to 14 friends. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ This Full-Day Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Private Tour with Lunch is practically a Mayan ruins marathon! Start bright and early with a tour around the Tulum Ruins, perched on a cliff. Then, move on to Coba, a vast site that still allows climbing its pyramid. Relax in Cenote Ik Kil, and end your trip with a visit to Chichen Itza. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Coba Ruins Tour (Private, Half Day) includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a guided tour around Coba for up to 15 people. Explore the ruins as you learn about Mayan history, and climb its tallest pyramid. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

If you choose to visit on your own, know that the entry fee to the ruins is 195 MXN (12 USD) in March 2024.

HOW TO GET TO THE COBA RUINS IN MEXICO

The ruins at Coba aren’t far from both Tulum and Playa del Carmen . There are plenty of transportation options available if you are traveling from Tulum or some other parts of the Riviera Maya. Let’s see them all.

Getting to Coba from Tulum

The Coba Mayan ruins are only 29 miles (47 km) from Tulum in the Yucatan Peninsula, which makes them the ideal day trip from Tulum . Coba is located between Lago Coba (Lake Coba) and Lago Macanxoc (Lake Macanxoc).

There are a few ways to go from Tulum to the Coba Ruins .

➤ The first option available to get to Tulum is by rental car and you’ll find that there are plenty of car rental companies in Tulum to get around for a day. Many tourists prefer this option to give them plenty of flexibility.

If you decide to drive to Coba Ruins from Tulum with a rental car, drive through the Quintana Roo Highway 109 . The total travel time is around 40 minutes. The address is Carretera Federal Tulum 307.

➤ If you decide to take the colectivo from Tulum to Coba Ruins , you must go to the corner of Tulum Avenue and Calle Osiris Norte. Colectivos usually depart when they’re full, so there’s likely one leaving Tulum every 15 or 20 minutes .

You should expect to pay around 70 MXN for the ride from Tulum to Coba. Also, make sure you get on one that has the “Tulum – Coba” sign on the front , or ask the driver if it’s headed there.

➤ You can also take the ADO bus from Tulum to Coba which is one of the best public transport options available. The ticket costs $15 at the time of writing and departs from the ADO bus terminal in Tulum Pueblo.

You can check the scheduled times for Valladolid, the bus’ final destination, here . The ride takes around 1 hour , and there are bus departures pretty much every hour during the day.

➤ You can also take a taxi to get to Coba. The average cost of a taxi ride to Coba from Tulum is 450 MXN. Make sure you agree on a price before you depart for Coba so you know exactly how much you’ll be paying.

Getting to the Coba Ruins from Playa del Carmen and Cancun

There are also routes available via the ADO Bus if you’re traveling to Coba from Cancun or Playa del Carmen in Quintana Roo, Mexico.

The bus ride from Playa del Carmen takes about 2 hours , and from Cancun it takes around 3 hours. It’s worth the trip, though, as Coba is one of the best Mayan ruins near Cancun you can visit.

HOW TO GET AROUND THE MAYAN COBA RUINS, MEXICO

The Coba Archaeological Site is a massive area with plenty to explore. It’s important to know the most efficient way to get around the ruins to ensure that you can make the most of the sights and save energy.

➤ One of the easiest ways to see the Coba Ruins is to explore Coba on foot and it’s really a nice way to get some exercise while also seeing the ruins.

If you intend to see the ruins for a full day, you can take your time and walk at your own pace. T he main structure of the site, for example, is about 1.2 miles from the ruins entrance.

If you want to explore more of the attractions of the site, most are a bit farther than 1.2 miles . You might want to look into a different transportation method.

➤ Another option to get around this ancient Mayan city is renting a bike . Bikes are popular among tourists because the bike rental is budget-friendly. Bikes can help you cover more ground as they are a faster way to get around.

The cost of bike rental is approximately 80 MXN per person at the time of writing.

➤ If you want a more convenient way to get around Coba Ruins, you can try the bike taxis . These bike carts are ideal if you don’t want to think about where to go next. Sit back and relax relax while your guide shows you the attractions you shouldn’t miss.

It’s also pretty fun to ride a bike taxi! The cost of a bike taxi or cart tour is 120 – 150 MXN (about 9 USD) at the time of writing.

A SHORT COBA RUINS HISTORY

According to archaeological evidence, the first settlement in Coba was around 50 BC to 100 AD (which means Coba is about 2,000 years old! ).

It was also known as one of the most important cities for the Mayans in terms of social and political power. This is because it controlled many farmlands and trading routes in the region.

During this period when Coba was an integral part of the Mayan Empire, it was estimated to have up to 50,000 in population . It’s clear the influence from Teotihuacan , which means that Coba communicated with other communities in Central Mexico.

The city maintained its influence for a long long time until the Spanish conquest in the 1500s.

Although the initial excavations at the Coba Ruins site were done in the 1970s, it was not developed into a tourist destination until the 1980s. You’ll see this is a big place – the ancient Mayan ruins site covers a land area of 30 square miles .

CLIMB THE NOHOCH MUL PYRAMID

As of March 2024, the pyramid cannot be climbed. Access to the top has been closed during the pandemic and it’s unclear if it will reopen or not.

Nohoch Mul Pyramid is the tallest pyramid in Coba , standing 137 feet tall. The pyramid can be climbed, though it takes 120 steps to get to the top.

In fact, Nohoch Mul Pyramid is the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula , and also the second-highest Mayan pyramid in the world.

Climbing up the Coba pyramid will have you navigating your way through crumbling stone stairs. Thankfully, there is a thick rope that you can use to assist your climb.

⚠️ However, I don’t suggest attempting the climb if you’re older or not too fit . It’s not the easiest climb, to be honest, and not to frighten you, but there have been a couple of incidents of people falling down the pyramid.

I’m not saying don’t go (I did!), but decide carefully if it’s for you or not.

The effort to climb up the largest pyramid in Coba is worth it when you consider the view that you can enjoy from the top. Jungle everywhere! Climbing the Nohoch Mul pyramid was the highlight of my time visiting Coba, but you need to hurry up.

OTHER SIGHTS IN COBA

The Coba Ruins are a collection of ancient pyramids . There are more things to do in this Mayan site apart from the main pyramid mentioned above!

In particular, there are many smaller pyramids and stone buildings scattered throughout that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Coba.

The first one is known as the Coba Group which is a series of structures that are near the entrance to this Maya ruins site. One of these structures of the Coba Group is the Iglesia (Church) and there are also two ball courts .

A Mayan ball court was used to play the traditional game of Mesopotamian ball . Unlike the main pyramid, you won’t be able to climb the Iglesia. 

Another must-see sight within the Coba Ruins is the Conjunto de Pinturas . The highlight of this area is the Pyramid of the Painted Lintel. It’s unique because there are beautiful paintings at the top of the temple, which can be seen from afar. 

There is another group of structures found within the Coba site that is also a must-see. This is the Macanxoc Group , which consists o f 8 stelae and several altars . The presence of plenty of stelae shows that this area was used for spiritual activities. 

And then there is the Coba Stelae which are numerous, large stone slabs. They consist of drawings and glyphs, believed to be a way for the ancient Mayans to record important events and historical facts. 

Finally, there are the Sacbes , which are also known as the white roads of the ancient Mayan world . Back when the Mayans thrived, Coba was a hub of urban settlements and they were accessible because of roads that were known as sacbes .

Many of these stone causeways were built by the Mayans to aid in commerce activity. There are at least 50 of those jungle paths that were unearthed within the archaeological site of Coba. 

HIRING A GUIDE AT THE COBA RUINS

At the entrance of Coba Ruins, you’ll find that there are guides who can be hired on-site. While you’ll already have a guide with you if you visit the ruins with a tour, if you’re going on your own it’s an option worth considering.

Exploring the site with a guide means you’ll get insights and context about the ruins . That’s on top of learning about the city’s inhabitants and their customs! You’ll also discover what each structure’s purpose was.

A guide service for an hour costs around $30 , although this is not a fixed price – you’ll have to ask the guides and arrange with them. They’re professional guides, and they usually speak very good English.

If you’re a group, a private tour ends up being quite cheap when you divide the fees between participants!

An alternative is hiring a tricycle ride to explore the vast site , as your driver could act the part of an informal guide.

They’re usually quite knowledgeable , and if your driver is friendly they may be willing to provide insights and teach you about the places. Remember to tip them!

TIPS FOR VISITING THE COBA RUINS

Wear comfortable shoes . The site is massive, and you’ll be doing A LOT of walking around (or cycling!) Having good, walkable footwear is key!

Bring a water bottle . The visit takes a few hours, and whether you decide to walk, cycle, or take a cabi-ped, the heat alone will make you incredibly thirsty.

Hire an on-site guide (unless you’re joining a tour) to make the most of the experience and better understand the site and its history, as well as Mayan culture.

Try to avoid the midday/early afternoon heat (and possible crowds) by visiting first thing in the morning . By noon, you’ll be ready to leave to…

Visit Cenotes! The area surrounding Coba is home to astounding cenotes that you should include in your itinerary. Make sure to save some time to check them out. Some of the best include Multun-Ha , Choo-Ha , and Tankach-Ha .

BEST CENOTES NEAR COBA RUINS

If you’ve been following this blog for a while, you’ll know that cenotes are my favorite part of traveling to the Yucatan peninsula. I’ve already written about plenty of nearby cenotes in Tulum and cenotes in Playa del Carmen and Valladolid .

But if you come to visit the Coba ruins, there are a few nearby cenotes that you shouldn’t miss. The following are some of the best cenotes to visit near Coba . These cenotes are located to the west of Coba village.

Cenote Tamcach-Ha

Cenote Tamcach-Ha is an underground cenote with a couple of jumping platforms that are 5- and 10-meters high, respectively. This is a great cenote to visit after visiting Coba Ruins if you prefer a cenote that is not too crowded.

Cenote Tamcach-Ha boasts crystal-clear water where you can swim or snorkel . To access this Coba ruins cenote, you have to make your way through a small opening in the ground.

Once inside, you can marvel at the impressive rock formations and stalagmites hanging from the ceiling.

This is a very deep cenote of a deep blue color , and the rock ceiling is impressively high. This is not the cenote to go to if you are looking for stalagmites. This perfectly round cavern is really beautiful and, surprisingly, it’s still relatively quiet and calm .

Cenote Tamcach-Ha Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 6 PM Cenote Tamcach-Ha Entrance Fee : 100 MXN

Cenote Choo-Ha

Cenote Choo-Ha is another Coba cenote located off the beaten path. You must brave through a rugged and secluded terrain to get to this cenote, which is surrounded by a naturally dense jungle.

Once you enter the cenote, you’ll find rustic-looking washrooms , toilets , and other facilities . It’s quite clear that they’re not trying to transform this into a modern facility.

Nonetheless, that does not take anything away from the natural beauty of this cenote. You make your way through a low stone wall through a small opening that leads to an underground cavern .

Thankfully, there is a spiral staircase that you can take to safely make your way down the cavern.

Once inside, you can marvel at the impressive rock formations that hang from the ceiling and at the many stalactites and stalagmites you’ll see everywhere.

Unlike Cenote Tamcach-Ha, Cenote Choo-Ha has shallow water which makes it the perfect spot for a leisure swim. The shallow water also makes it a good option for families with small kids!

Cenote Choo-Ha Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 6 PM Cenote Choo-Ha Entrance Fee : 100 MXN

Cenote Multum-Ha

This is the deepest cenote of the three cenotes near the Coba Ruins . This is also a bit farther into the jungle so it’s the hardest to reach of the three nearby cenotes. Cenote Multum-Ha is ideal for snorkeling and, just like Choo-Ha, it features rustic facilities and washrooms.

Since this is also an underground cenote, you’ll enter through a small opening through the rocks and make your way down a spiral wooden staircase.

The entry is somewhat claustrophobic because it’s surrounded by rock walls on both sides. Once you reach the end, though, there is a deck-like platform with railings that enable you to overlook the cenote waters.

At the top of the ceiling, there is a small hole that allows a small amount of light in.

Due to the serene nature of this cenote and the lack of tourists, it offers an intimate experience . If you visit on slow days, you could even have this Coba cenote to yourself!

Cenote Multum-Ha Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 6 PM Cenote Multum-Ha Entrance Fee : 100 MXN

WHERE TO STAY IN COBA NEAR THE RUINS

Luxury Hotel : Coqui Coqui Papholchac Coba Residence & Spa – It boasts an earthy design and it offers top-notch amenities. It’s home to spacious, air-conditioned accommodations with a private bathroom and a terrace. There’s also a swimming pool, a wellness center, a restaurant, and a bar.

Boutique Hotel : Hotel Jungla y Estrellas – This 3-star hotel has an outdoor pool, a terrace equipped with sunbeds, and a spa. Rooms come with a private bathroom with toiletries, and some boast their own balcony. Breakfast is served every morning.

On a Budget : Hotel Itza Coba – This hotel offers double and family rooms with a private bathroom, and it’s located near the ruins. It has a lovely patio and an outdoor swimming pool, offers room service, and it’s pet-friendly (upon request).

COBA RUINS FAQ

Currently, the Coba Ruins entry fee is 100 MXN.

The Coba Ruins’ opening hours are from 8 AM to 4 PM.

The CobaMayan city is located 47 km (29 miles) from Tulum in the Yucatan Peninsula.

The best time to visit Coba Ruins is early in the morning, soon after the attraction opens at 8 AM. If you arrive mid-day, you can expect this Mayan site to get quite crowded. Make sure you arrive before the other tourists arrive if you want a more relaxed experience!

Yes, climbing the Nohoch Mul Pyramid at Coba is still possible!

Yes, absolutely! I honestly liked the ruins of Coba (Mexico) more than the Tulum Ruins and other Mayan ruins .

The Mayan Ruins of Coba were built between 500 and 900 AD.

I hope this guide is useful to plan your visit to the Coba ruins – for any questions, let me know in the comments below.

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Thursday 21st of March 2024

This information is completely outdated. It has been forbidden to clinb the temple for several years. They closed access during COVID. Also, the entrance fee is 195 pesos in March 2024

Stefania Guglielmi

Monday 25th of March 2024

Thank you for your comment! We used to have a box saying that the pyramid is (temporarily?) closed but not sure what happened to it!! We already updated the post.

Visiting Coba Ruins Mexico | Everything You Need To Know

Posted on Last updated: January 5, 2024

Not sure if you need to do a Coba Ruins tour in Mexico or if you should go it alone? I’m not going to lie, Coba Mexico ruins can be a little tricky to get to, so many people choose to do a Coba Ruins tour to save stress.

But with a little planning, it is possible to see Coba Ruins Mexico without doing an organized tour. I’ve done both and if I’m honest I do prefer to do a guided tour of Coba Mexico if I don’t have access to a car because public transport can be a pain. But

You can’t visit this beautiful part of Mexico without seeing at least one Mayan Ruin site ! If you are in the Cancun / Playa Del Carmen / Tulum area you should go to Coba at least or better still visit Coba and Tulum on the same day. Coba is actually my favorite of all of the Mayan sites I’ve visited. 

In this blog post, you will learn all of the best ways to visit Coba Ruins in Mexico . I have also outlined the different ways to get to Coba from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Quick Tip : I highly recommend booking all of your Mexico transportation with GottoGo . You can search for buses, shuttles, ferries, and Flights on their website. What I love most about them is their customer service. I know these guys personally from living in Guatemala, and they look after their customers. If anything happens and you get delayed and miss your bus, you can just call them, and they are always there to help. If you book through them, you will pay a little more than booking in person at the bus station. But it’s worth it for the ease and security. Click here to search for transportation in Mexico.

Do you need to book a Coba Ruins tour, or can you visit on your own without a guide?

I actually visited Coba Mexico Ruins from Tulum . The hardest part for me was getting there and back unless you have your own transport it can be tricky. But when you are actually at Coba a guide is going to give you a lot of great information, but it’s not necessary to enjoy the experiences, in my opinion. If you do decide to do a tour, do a Tulum and Coba tour .

QUICK TIP: Book your tours, rental cars, and transfers through my local contacts I’ve been working with Living Dreams Mexico for years and they are who I send all my family and friends to when they visit the Riviera Maya. I really can recommend them enough for private tours and experiences. They have solid 5* reviews on Trip Advisor and Google from almost 4000 reviewers! You can view all their tours here. If you’re looking for private airport transfers and rental cars then Vanessa and Oliver from Turismo Channel are personal friends of mine and I can 100% recommend them to make an inquiry click here and complete the form . Someone will be in touch within 24 hours.

So of all the Mayan ruins Mexico why visit Coba?

Coba Ruins are believed to be one of the most important Mayan Ruins sites in the Yucatan Peninsula. It is also one of the quieter Mayan Ruin sites in Mexico and a lot of fun to explore. As much or it still isn’t excavated you feel a bit like Indiana Jones discovering it in the jungle. But the best bit for me is that you can explore it on a bike. 

• Walking around you feel like you are really discovering something so many of the structures are still hidden by trees.
•  There are three Cenotes within a 10-minute drive of Coba: Choo Ha, Tamchaha and Multun-Ha. Once you have finished exploring the site you can hop in your car () and drive to one of the pools to cool off.
• As I already mentioned you can hire a bike or a bici taxi (tricycle taxi) so you don’t have to walk.
• Coba has a Mayan Pyramids that you can still climb!

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

How to get to Coba Ruins Mexico

Coba isn’t easy to get to unless you rent a car ( read this blog post before you rent a car in Mexico ) or can afford to splash out on a taxi. If you are on a budget like me then Coba Mayan ruins can be a little trickier to access than the other Mayan ruins in Mexico.

Rent a Car:

If you can this is the mode of transport I would highly recommend. There is so much to explore in the area and rental cars are pretty cheap. Even just renting a car for 24 hours you could see a lot. The roads are very easy to navigate and Coba is so easy to find you really can’t go wrong. If it hadn’t been for the fact I managed to lose my bank card in Guatemala this is what I would have done.

Rental Car charges can start from around $100 per day. I always rent cars from Vanessa in Playa del Carmen 9 times out of 10 the car rental places will scam or rip you off, read this before booking anything , or click here to ask Vanessa for a quote .

Public Transport:

From cancun or playa del carmen:.

Option 1: Take an ADO bus before 7:30 am from Cancun and change at Tulum or at 9:00 am from Playa Del Carmen. To get back, the bus leaves at 1 pm.

Option 2: Take a colectivo from Cancun to Playa del Carmen where you will need to then take a second Colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Tulum (its a lot easier than it sounds).

When you arrive in Tulum take either another colectivo from Tulum to Coba or take the ADO bus at 10:10. The first colectivo leaves after 9 am or as soon as they have at least 3 people wanting to go to Coba.

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best Mexico Tours :  Click here to check out the top Mexico tours Best Mexico Accommodation:  Click here to check out the best accommodation in Mexico Best Mexico Transport:  Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Mexico

Getting back to Tulum from Coba Ruins can be tricky if you arrived by colectivo as there is no way of knowing when they will be there. I would advise getting the 1 pm ADO bus or taking a taxi back. Or if you are feeling brave you could hitchhike which is what I did…shush don’t tell my Mum and Dad haha.

Option 3: Take either a colectivo or the ADO bus to Tulum and then take a taxi to Coba for around 200 pesos.

How to get to Coba from Tulum:

The ADO bus leaves at 10:10 from its terminal and returns at 1 pm. You can also take a Colectivo which will pick you up a few blocks away on the same road. These start at 9 am as soon as there is a minimum of 3 people. To return, I would recommend the 1 pm or 3 pm ADO coach.

Finding the place where the Colectivo picks you up can be tricky so here are some images that show you the spot. The Coba Colectivo isn’t a van it’s a large car that looks more like a taxi. This completely threw me.

Book a Coba Ruins Tour

If you are staying in Playa Del Carmen or Cancun booking a tour to Coba could be your best option, as a tour company will take care of all of your transport to Coba Ruins. You can book a Coba Ruins tour through most hotels and tour agencies and they will normally include a stop at Tulum Ruins.  So you actually end up doing a Tulum and Coba tour too as they are so close.  I would highly recommend including a visit to Tulum Ruins if you get the chance.

Tulum Ruins is very different from Coba Ruins, it’s one of the most stunning Mayan Ruins sites I have seen. A Tulum and Coba Tour will cost you around $100 USD from Cancun or Playa Del Carmen .

Interested in a Coba Ruins Tour?

After living in Playa del Carmen for over 3 years I know the best people to trust! Complete this form below including the date you want to go and someone from Tourismo Channel will get back to you within 24 hours. They are my top recommended tour company in The Riviera Maya. You can also combine the Coba tour with visiting other local sights, just ask for more information.

Quick Tip : You can also book tours from Living Dreams Mexico here: DISCOVER TULUM AND COBA Chichen Itza

How to get around Coba Ruins in Mexico

You have three options when visiting the site:

1.) Rent a bike for 60 pesos 2.) Rent a bici taxi 3.) Walk

You will also have the option of hiring a guide to show you around the site when you arrive.

On a bike, it will take around 1.5 hours to cover the site and about 2.5 if you are on foot. The journey is mostly under the shade of the jungle and if you go early in the morning it is a very nice commute.

Quick Tip : View my full  Mexico packing guide  here including a downloadable checklist. And check out my Mexico Essentials shopping list  here .

What to see and do in Coba Ruins

Inside the Coba Ruins, there are three main sites open to the public all connected by sacbéob (Mayan ceremonial “white roads”). It’s a nice ride/ walk in between sites.

The three main areas in Coba Ruins are:

• Conjunto Pinturas
• Nohoch Mul structures (where the main pyramid is located)
• Macanxoc Group

The highlight for me was getting to climb up the Coba Mayan Pyramid. Standing at 138 feet tall, the 120 steps to climb may not look that difficult but do issue caution and hold on to the rope in the middle. The view from the top over the jungle is magical!

Take a look at the video including exploring the Tulum and Coba Ruins sites.

Can I Still Climb The Coba Pyramid in 2024

Although they did stop people from climbing the Coba pyramid in the wake of COVID. As of December 2023, the good news is that Yes, you can still climb the main Coba Pyramid.

However, it’s always a good idea to check for the most current information before your visit. Policies regarding climbing the pyramids can change due to various factors like preservation efforts or safety concerns.

Climbing the Nohoch Mul pyramid was a big highlight for me when visiting Coba Mexico ruins, as it’s one of the few Mayan pyramids in Mexico where climbing is still allowed. It offers a pretty unique and exhilarating experience, along with stunning views from the top.

Need Somewhere to Stay in Tulum? I wrote a guide to the Top Boutique Hotels in Tulum ,  Where to Stay in Tulum,  and  The Best Hostels in Tulum, Mexico . Before booking, I always check Booking.com , Hotels.com , and Expedia.com for the best deals on accommodations. Here are my picks: Top Budget Pick : Chill Inn Top Boutique Pick : Elements Tulum Boutique Hotel Top Resort : Nah Uxibal Villa and Casitas Top Luxury Pick : Nomade Tulum Are you traveling in the Riviera Maya ? Click to read my guides to accommodation in  Playa del Carmen , Cozumel, Holbox , and  Cancun .

Mexico Travel Guide Planning

🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Mexico?

Yes! I have created a whole packing guide to Mexico which you can read  here  and you can also check out my packing list for Mexico on Amazon  here .

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in Mexico?

I strongly recommend using  GottoGo . You can book almost all transport in the major Mexican tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫  Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Mexico?

First and foremost check out all of the amazing Mexico tours  Where Sidewalks End  has. They are a small local company and they have some really special experiences.

For everything else I recommend either  Viator  or  GetYour Guide . 

If you are traveling to Cancun you can use  GoCity  and save up to 55% of the initial cost of entrance tickets to various museums, tours, and attractions!

If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by  clicking here  and using the following discount codes for the best prices  clairecaroff  (car rental),  claire10off  (for 10% off group tours),  claireprivate  (for a discount on private tours). You can also  send her a WhatsApp message  quoting the above codes to receive the discount.

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using  Heymondo  for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out  SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance  here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay  offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise  Skyscanner  or  Expedia  are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read  here . I personally use  GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub  or  Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are  Booking.com ,  Hotels.com , and  Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅  Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list  here . I’m currently traveling with  this suitcase  and  this backpack. 

Pin For Later!

Monday 3rd of June 2024

Hi Claire! Any idea if you are still able to climb up the main Coba pyramid still? (June 2024)

Claire Summers

Tuesday 4th of June 2024

Hi Grace, I'm actually not 100% sure. But I think you can yes.

Tuesday 22nd of January 2019

Hello Claire, Hope today finds you well. I am fortunate to have just discovered your blog, love it! My sister and I will be traveling to Playa Del Carmen mid February. We plan to take a tour of the Ruins. I do have one question if I may? I have decided on using a tour company called Living Dreams Mexico. Hmm, but the choices????? We are considering either, Dream Coba tour, Dream Chechen-Itza or Discover Tulum and Coba. Yikes, they all look good. If you have any thoughts on our quandry and the time to shoot me a response, I would much appreciate it. Thanks so much all the best Suzanne Bridge

Suzanne Bridge

Thursday 17th of January 2019

Ah amazing you will love it here! OK so I would do tulum and coba. Chichen itza is amazing... But coba is still my favorite ❤️ tulum is very commercial but oh so pretty! Coba you get to climb on the ruins and ride a bike through the jungle. So much fun!

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

Climbing Coba Ruins – Everything You NEED to Know

By: Author Adam

Posted on Last updated: 31 October, 2023

Situated just two hours outside of Cancun, Mexico, is Coba, one of the most prominent ancient Mayan sites in the Yucatan Peninsula.

The archeological ruins are located next to several crystal lakes, and its lush, remote location means it’s tucked away from the masses of tourists. It is also considered to be the location of the largest Mayan settlement in the Yucatan Peninsula.

If you are looking for some of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico , make sure to make time to visit the Coba Ruins.

If you are looking for Mayan ruins you can climb, you’re in luck. You can still climb Coba Ruins. We’ve put together this complete guide for visiting Coba Ruins, everything you need to know before visiting.

UPDATE 2022: Currently, there have been reports that you can periodically not been able to climb Coba ruins due to Covid-19. We hope the situation changes. As of right now, there is a possibility you won’t be able to climb Coba ruins on your visit.

Where are the Coba Ruins located?

Coba is nestled between Lago Coba (Lake Coba) and Lago Macanxoc (Lake Macanxoc). These lakes are believed to have given Coba its name, which translates to “waters stirred by wind.” Its lakeside location provides a stunning backdrop to the ancient stone structures in Coba.

However, the ruins themselves are in the middle of a wild jungle. During your visit, you’ll find that many of the structures are covered in a dense overgrowth of vines and trees. This setting adds an eerie and mysterious vibe to the area. We have always driven ourselves to Coba, click here to check rental car rates .

• Tulum to Coba: 45 minutes
• Playa del Carmen to Coba: 90 minutes
• Cancun to Coba: 2 hours
• Address: Carretera Federal Tulum 307, 77793 Cobá, Q.R., Mexico

Check Rates

Coba Ruins Hours & Admission

Coba is open daily, but if possible, we suggest visiting during the week. The weekends seem to be busier as more local tourists are traveling on the weekend. We also suggest bringing cash, especially if you are parking.

• Hours: Open daily from 8 am-5 pm
• Coba Entrance Fee: 70 pesos per person
• Coba Parking Fee: 50 pesos per car

Tips For Visiting Coba Ruins

1. go early/late afternoon.

Visiting Coba is one of the top things to do in the Yucatan. Most tourists join large tour groups if you choose to rent a car (which we advise), you can plan your visit around them. Go right away in the morning before the big tour groups arrive or in the late afternoon. This will make for a more relaxing & quiet visit to Coba. Plus, the temperatures are much more tolerable.

2. Rent a Car

One of the cheapest and best ways to explore Coba is by renting a car and making your own trip. Rental cars in Mexico are cheap, and driving in Mexico is a lot easier than you’d think. Make sure to read our rental car tips here. We’ve rented a car 10+ times in Mexico and wouldn’t explore any other way. Click here to check rates on Discovercars.com . They have the best prices and free cancelations.

3. Bring Water

No matter what time of year you visit, Coba is always hot. Make sure to bring plenty of water. You’ll need it. There will be water for purchase if you run out. You might also want to wear a hat or bring an umbrella to help block the sun as well. The heat is no joke.

4. Take a Bike Taxi

You can choose to walk to all the sites, rent a bike, or take a bike taxi. The site itself is very spread out, we opted for the bike taxi, and it still took us over an hour to see all of the structures. If you are short on time, it’s super hot, or not up for walking. It’s well worth it. Prices vary but expect 75-100 pesos and make sure to tip.

History of Coba Ruins

Out of all the ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula, Coba is considered one of the least excavated and least reconstructed. For this reason, it offers a rare glimpse into the real life of the ancient Mayans. You might even spot a few tropical birds and monkeys that live in the jungle!

The oldest artifacts found in Coba are from 50 BC to 100 AD, making it one of the oldest settlements in the Mayan world. However, historians believe that it wasn’t until 200 to 600 AD that Coba became the powerful ruling city that it’s known as.

Coba once dominated a large portion of the Yucatan, including Quintana Roo. Not only did the settlement control a vast amount of farmland, but it also had direct access to water resources, which was crucial for trading and expansion.

The city even had deep relationships with other areas, including Guatemala and Campeche. By establishing strong military alliances with these states, they could remain in total control of the surrounding regions.

During its height, Coba had around 50,000 residents, making it one of the largest cities in the Mayan world. However, it wasn’t long before the rise of neighboring Chichen Itza took some of the important political and economic power away from Coba. The struggle to remain in power proved difficult, and unfortunately, Coba started to diminish in 1000 AD.

It wasn’t until the Spanish conquest in 1550 that Coba was completely abandoned.

The first documented record of Coba was also in John Lloyd Stephens and Frederick Catherwood’s “Incidents of Travel in Yucatan.” However, the settlement’s remote spot made it challenging to locate, and Coba remained untouched for many more decades following the book’s publication.

In the 20th century, it was rediscovered by Dr. Thomas Gann, who was led to the site by local Mayan hunters. Since then, extensive research and excavation digs have shed light on this once hidden settlement.

Muyil Mayan Ruins – Everything you need to know before you go!

Top Coba Ruins Sights

There are plenty of sights and attractions to see during your visit to Coba. Some of the most essential things to see are the sacbe, or stone highways. These sacbe stem from the center of Coba and extend to many larger cities in the surrounding areas.

In total, there are around 50 different sacbe in Coba. The longest is over 62 miles long and connects Coba with the site of Yaxuna. It’s considered the oldest and most advanced road in the ancient world!

2. Nohoch Mul Pyramid

Besides the sacbe, the main attraction in Coba is the ancient Nohoch Mul Pyramid. Unlike most archeological attractions in the Yucatan Peninsula, the Nohoch Mul Pyramid can still be climbed and explored by visitors. For this reason, Coba is one of the top  Mayan ruins in the Yucatan.

Standing 137 feet high, the Nohoch Mul Pyramid contains 130 steps to the top . Don’t worry if the steep height looks intimidating; there’s a sturdy rope that you can hold to help you ascend the pyramid. It’s well worth the effort to climb to the top because, at the peak, you’ll enjoy sweeping, panoramic views of both Lake Macanxoc and Lake Coba.

3. Coba Group

Another big attraction in Coba is the Coba group, a complex of structures near the main entrance. Here, you can find the Iglesia, or church, as well as a ball court. Mayan ball courts can be found throughout the Yucatan and were used to play the recreational sport of mesoamerican ball.

4. Coba Stalae

Finally, don’t forget to visit the Coba Stalae, a collection of stone slabs that contain drawings and glyphs. These images represent essential dates and moments in history and show what daily life was like in Coba. The images also depict traditional dress, Mayan ritual processes, and other ceremonial and political activities.

While there are several prominent buildings in Coba, much of the region remains unexcavated. Archaeologists believe that there are still over 5,000 sites and mounds to be discovered in Coba!

The Coba Ruins are quite large, and sprawl several acres deep into the forest. One of the easiest ways to explore everything Coba has to offer is by bike. Bike rentals are available in the ruins, and allow you to speed between the different landmarks and attractions.

If you’d rather relax than pedal, you can hire a Mayan taxi driver for an extra fee. This way, a local guide will drive you around on his three-wheeled bike as you are personally chauffeured to your favorite sites and attractions around Coba.

After a visit to Coba Ruins, you should consider cooling off in one of the surrounding cenotes. These limestone fresh-water sinkholes are perfect for a refreshing swim or dip after a long climb up the pyramid or cycle ride through the ruins. Although there are just three cenotes around Coba, you can find dozens of other cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula .

Between the lush jungle vines and the unearthed landmarks and structures, Coba is a place for discovery. It’s one of the rare settlements that hasn’t been overrun by crowds or impacted by tourists. If you’re looking for a unique experience filled with historic treasures and stunning landscapes, then make sure to add Coba to your bucket list.

Places in Mexico to Visit Before or After Playa del Carmen

If you’ve got more time to explore Mexico, there are some amazing places nearby you should check out. If you can’t make it on this trip, consider them on your next trip. Make sure to check out some of our other Mexico articles to fuel your wanderlust.

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Over 6,000 cenotes in Mexico, guide to the best cenotes in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Merida & Cancun. Cenote map, entrance fees, hours & more.

How to visit the Coba Ruins & nearby Cenotes

The Coba Ruins are the remains of a Mayan City located in the jungle of the Yucatan Peninsula. They are located close enough to Tulum and Playa Del Carmen for a day trip. But the great thing is that they are nowhere near as crowded as other ruins such as Chitzen Itza and the Tulum ruins.

One thing that is interesting about Coba is that there are many ruins buried under trees. Today the crumbling remains of the city are scattered throughout the jungle. They cover such a large area that the best way to explore the ruins is to hire a bike which makes it a really unique experience compared to other ruins.

Part 1: Visiting the Coba Ruins

Let’s dive right into everything you need to know before visiting the Coba Ruins.

Can You Still Climb The Pyramid At Coba? 🥾

It used to be possible to climb up the main pyramid which I did on my first visit in 2019. But since 2020 it is not possible anymore to climb up the Coba Ruins due to Covid.

There is a high chance they won’t be able to climb again due to preservation efforts which were already discussed before Covid hit. Covid was just the tipping point for taking away the option of climbing the pyramid.

When I was visiting the ruins end of 2022 again I thought it might be less of a great experience without the climb but for sure it was not! Coba is still one of my favorite Mayan ruins to visit in the Yucatan and I highly recommend visiting them.

So keep reading to find out what to expect on your trip to the Coba Ruins in 2023.

Coba Ruins Location 📍

The Coba Ruins are located in the small town of Coba and are only a 45-minute drive from Tulum and a 1.5-hour drive from Playa del Carmen . So if you are staying in either of those places they make the perfect day trip.

There are also several really cool cenotes located nearby which are great places to cool down after exploring the ruins and I will cover them later on in this guide.

How To Get To The Coba Ruins

The three options you have to arrive at Coba are by bus, colectivo, or rental car . The Coba Ruins are easy to reach from Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

To arrive by bus there are two companies that you can choose from.

ADO is the fancier bus line and they depart once a day daily from Play Del Carmen at 8:40 am arriving at the ruins at 10:30 am. The ticket price is 175 pesos (8 USD) one-way. The ADO bus also stops in Tulum and departs at 9:45 am arriving at 10:30 am at the ruins for 100 pesos (5 USD) one-way.

The ADO bus returns once a day daily from Coba at 3:30 pm to both Tulum and Playa Del Carmen. It will arrive in Tulum at 4:45 pm and in Playa del Carmen at 5:30 pm. When we went to Coba with ADO we traveled in a van which was very comfortable. But it may be that in the busier season, they will have a full-sized bus.

You can buy your tickets at the ADO bus station, via the ADO website or the ADO app . I recommend having the app as it is the most convenient and fast.

By Colectivo 🚐

Colectivos depart from Tulum to the Coba Ruins and are the cheapest option. You will however have to be a bit more flexible to catch them as they will only leave when full. You could arrive a bit earlier and depart a bit later from Coba than the ADO, but since they don’t run on a schedule you won’t know in advance. Because the price is the same as the ADO van I recommend choosing ADO.

The last regular colectivo departs from Coba to Tulum at 4:00 pm and costs 100 pesos (5 USD) each way. From there you could get into another colectivo or bus to Playa del Carmen or even Cancun.

Shared Taxi From Playa Del Carmen 🚖

Outside the main colectivo station in Playa Del Carmen we saw shared taxis for 200 pesos (10 USD) per person. So if you are in a group of 4 or are willing to share with strangers this might be a good option. The advantage of this is that it should be faster than a colectivo or bus and that you could leave earlier.

Renting A Car 🚗

Renting a car can also be very affordable particularly if you are in a group. A car is a great option because you have much more flexibility when you arrive and depart. The ruins open at 8 am and most people will arrive after 10:30 am so if you arrive early you should have the site mostly to yourselves.

There are also some great cenotes located about 6 km from the ruins so if you have a car you can visit these afterward. If you do not have a car you would have to get a taxi, more on that in the second part of this guide.

The first time I visited the Coba Ruins we booked a rental car here which we picked up and returned at Cancun airport and I can highly recommend it. I found it to be the cheapest rental car option in the Yucatan and have used it twice so far.

Coba Opening Hours

The opening hours of Coba are 8 am to 4 pm every day of the week.

Coba Ruins Price 🎟️

The price to enter the Coba archaeological site is 100 pesos (5 USD). You can buy your Coba ruins tickets from the booths next to the entrance.

As I mentioned above the ruins cover a huge area so it is very popular to rent a bike inside.

Bike rental is 65 pesos (3 USD) and you can rent them inside after the first group of ruins. I personally enjoyed cycling around the ruins as it allowed you to see everything much faster. There were many roads built in Coba that spread out for large distances around the Yucatan. The longest of these roads was over 100km long and some of the paths that you will travel on around the site are the original roads built by the Maya.

In my opinion, cycling is the best way to explore the ruins. However, if you enjoy walking you can take your time and you may have a chance to spot some monkeys!

Coba Ruins History 🤓

Let’s have a brief look at Coba Ruins’ mysterious history first to get out the best out of your visit. Coba was a Mayan City with over 50,000 inhabitants at its peak and covered an area of 80 square km. Many people know of the Mayan civilization because of their advanced knowledge of mathematics, astrology and the doomsday predictions in 2012.

The Mayans were the dominant civilization in Southern Mexico and Central America for thousands of years before the arrival of the Spanish. But many people don’t realize that the Mayans never disappeared. The Mayan language is still spoken by 6 million people throughout Mexico and Central America and their culture is very much still alive.

Unfortunately, a lot of their culture was destroyed by the arrival of the Spanish in the 1500s. When the Spanish arrived they destroyed many Mayan books and artifacts so much of their history was lost.

Coba however was already abandoned when the Spanish arrived around 1550. The reason for this is a little mysterious as many huge Mayan cities all throughout Central America were totally abandoned. Some theories are that there was a severe drought combined with deforestation that resulted in the collapse of the cities. But the real reason will most likely never be known, so it all remains a mystery.

Coba was a dominant city in the area between 200 and 600 AD. After this point, the more famous city of Chichen Itza emerged and there was a power struggle between the two cities. Chichen Itza was the more powerful city and was victorious causing Coba to slowly lose importance.

Over the centuries cities along the coast became more important until Coba was almost totally abandoned. The site remained abandoned in the jungle unknown except to local Maya and archaeologists until the 1970s.

Opening Of Coba For Tourism

During the 1970s with the development of Cancun, it was realized Coba could be opened up to tourists. So a road was built and the site was cleared to allow tourists to visit. However, even though a huge area has been opened up only a small section of the city has actually been excavated by archaeologists. The rest remains buried in the jungle.

Exploring The Coba Ruins 🤠

Once you enter the ruins you will go up a slight slope where there will be a group of guides waiting for you. A guide told us a tour would be 700 pesos (35 USD) for the group so if you are super interested in the history of the Coba Ruins you can hire a guide here.

At the entrance, if you look to the right you will see a huge mound that looks like a hill but it is actually unexcavated ruins. While you are cycling or walking through Coba if you look into the trees you will see mounds everywhere that are ruins that are yet to be uncovered.

The first group of ruins to explore is called the Church Group and is on the right as you enter. You are not allowed to take bikes in here so you will need to explore these on foot and then rent a bike afterwards.

Near the entrance, there is also a map of the site which is a good idea to have a look at to make sure you know what route to take.

The Church Group ⛪

The Church Group contains the second-largest pyramid in Coba which is also referred to as the church. In this area, there is also a Mayan ball court and several other residential buildings.

The Ball Cou rt 🏐

The ball court is where a game was played that was popular throughout the Mayan world. In Mexico ruins and all through Central America Mayan ball courts are nearly always found.

The exact rules of the game are not known but the game was played by bouncing a rubber ball along the walls of the court. One theory is that you could only bounce the ball along the wall with your hips. The aim of the game was to get the ball to the opposing team’s end without it landing in the area between the two walls.

If you got the ball through the hoops it was an instant win for your team. The game seems to have been played for leisure as well as for ritual purposes.

Mayan Fun Facts 🤓

In the Church Group, you will also see a small tunnel that you can walk through. The construction of the tunnel shows an interesting fact about Mayan architecture.

You can see from the pictures that there is no arch in the tunnel. As the Maya never figured out how to construct arches it greatly limited the types of buildings that they could construct.

The Maya also never figured out the wheel so everything was transported using human labour. This is quite strange as they had very advanced knowledge of mathematics and astrology but couldn’t seem to figure out other more basic inventions.

Due to the fact that they had to use human labor to transport materials, it is thought they traveled mainly at night. The roads around the Yucatan were white from limestone so this allowed travelers to easily see where they were going with limited light.

Bike Rental 🚲

After visiting the Church Group you will see the bike rental area. Bikes cost 65 pesos (3 USD) to rent. A lot of the bikes are fairly old but they will get you around the site safely.

If you don’t want to walk and also don’t want to ride a bike you can hire a bike taxi. The bike taxis cost 150 pesos for 2 hours.

Conjunto de Pinturas 🖼️

The Conjunto de Pinturas (‘Set of paintings’) is the next main ruin to visit after the Coba groups. You will arrive at a fork in the road and the pyramid is located in the center of the fork.

The pyramid’s name comes from paintings that were discovered at the top of the temple. Unfortunately, you are not allowed to climb the pyramid but you may be able to catch glimpses if you zoom in from below.

There are also some other buildings and carved stelae in the area to check out. Stelae are stone columns where depictions of Mayan kings were carved into the stone. You will see them throughout Coba and many other Mayan ruins.

Macanxoc Group 🗿

After the Conjunto de Pinturas the next area you should visit is the Macanxoc Group. To get there follow the right-hand side of the fork for a few minutes by bike. It is a really nice ride through the jungle.

The Macanxoc Group consists of some smaller ruins with a lot of stelaes. Because of the large number of carved stelae it is presumed that this area was of spiritual significance. Unfortunately, because the stelae were carved out of limestone they have been seriously eroded so they are hard to see. However, next to a lot of them there are drawings to help you see what was originally carved.

The Macanxoc Group does not have any large pyramids. But I really liked exploring it as it seems like a lot of people don’t make it up this way. So it was fairly empty when we were looking around.

After the Macanxoc Group, you will have to head back to the fork in the road. At the fork, you will have to take the left-hand side of the fork where you next come to another ball court.

Second Ball Court 🏐

The next ruins that you see along the road is another ball court. This ball court is very similar to the first one but with a couple of interesting differences.

In the middle of the court on the ground, you will see two small little metal fences around some stones on the ground. One of the carvings is a skull and the other is an animal, although it is not clear what type. They are not the most amazing carvings but still quite interesting.

After the ball court, the next ruin is the Xaibé Pyramid which is speculated to be an observatory.

Xaibé Pyramid ❎

The Xaibe Pyramid is named Xaibe because of the four roads that used to spread out from the pyramid and Xaibe is the Mayan word for crossroads.

I liked the pyramid as it has rounded sides which are not common in Mayan architecture. It is believed that the pyramid may have been an observatory and that the four tiers represented the seasons. However no evidence has been discovered of its use, so it is mainly speculation.

One tip is that you will only see the Xaibe Pyramid if you take the bike path. The walking path is shorter but does not go past the Xaibe Pyramid. So if you are walking I think it would be worth taking the longer path to see this pyramid.

Nohoch Mul Pyramid ⛰️

After the Xaibe Pyramid, you will be making your way to the main attraction, the Nohoch Mul Pyramid. This pyramid is 42 m tall and one of the tallest constructed in the Mayan world. When I visited Coba for the first time in 2019 I was able to climb the pyramid. However, the decision was made to stop visitors from climbing so you will have to view it from the ground.

It is still a really impressive sight from the ground though and well worth the trip. One thing that I really like about the Nohoch Mul pyramid is that has been left mainly in the state it was found. The back side of the pyramid is almost totally covered in trees and the front is crumbling away quite a bit.

Other sites around the Yucatan are heavily restored and I prefer it when they have been left more in their natural state. The Nohoch Mul Pyramid really shows you how quickly nature takes over which I think is cool to see.

Apart from the main pyramid, there is also another carved stelae to have a look at before you go up the slope to the pyramid. The Nonoch Mul Pyramid is the last site to see and from here you can make your way back to the entrance.

Where To Eat At Coba Ruins 🍽️

Just before the car park to Coba, there are a few restaurants where you can grab something to eat at. The only one that we have been to is El Crocodrilo , a restaurant that serves traditional Mexican food from the Yucatan. The food is good and affordable and they also have some vegan and vegetarian options so it is a good spot to refuel after exploring the ruins.

Crocodile spotting 🐊

The restaurant is called El Crocodilo (‘The Crocodile’) because of the crocodiles living in the lake in front of the restaurant which we were able to spot so give it a try!

Part 2: Visiting the Coba Cenotes

If you have some free time after visiting the ruins there are some cool cenotes near Coba that you can visit. Read more about what cenotes are and the best tips for visiting them here.

At the Coba Ruins are three separate cenotes close by. These are Tankach-Ha , Choo-Ha and Multum-Ha . They are all about 6.5 kilometers away from the ruins and cost 100 pesos (5 USD) to enter each.

How To Get To The Coba Cenotes 📍

To get to the cenotes you can either drive, take a taxi or ride a bike. Two of the cenotes Tankach-Ha and Choo-Ha are located on the same road. Whereas Multum-Ha is located on a road by itself. You can walk between Tankach-Ha and Choo-Ha however you will need a car to go across to Mulutm-Ha. You can see all the locations on the map below.

If you have plenty of time you should visit all three. But we didn’t have much time after visiting the ruins so we just visited Tankach-Cha because it has a 5 m and 10 m diving platform. Which was heaps of fun!

I found out you can rent bikes from the entrance to the Coba car park. However, on the Saturday we went the guy who rents them was on his day off. So I am not sure how much they would cost to rent. But if you are really keen on biking you can ask if they have any available. You are not allowed to use the rental bikes of the Coba Ruins.

Just be warned that it is a 6.5 km ride and it will most likely be really hot. So only take a bike if you are in for a decent bike ride in the heat.

We got a taxi which cost us 500 pesos (25 USD). The driver took us to the cenotes and waited for about 1.5 hours at the cenote then took us back. So we felt 500 was a fairly decent price especially as it was shared between four people and we had limited time. But I am sure that if you haggle you could get the price down.

Cenote Tankach-Ha 🥽

We chose to visit Cenote Tankach-Ha because of the diving platforms which are a lot of fun. It is not the prettiest cenote but it is still very impressive once you enter. It is a huge circular underground cave that is essentially like a giant swimming pool with crystal clear water.

Because of how high the ceiling is they have been able to build the diving platforms. The 10 m platform is a lot of fun and sure to get your adrenaline pumping. But the 5 m platform is also a good option for those who are a bit scared of heights (as Katharina is ;)).

Aside from the platforms, it is still a good idea to bring a mask or goggles to go for a swim in the cenote. The water is crystal clear and there are some interesting rock formations underwater. If you go for a swim around the edge of the cenote there are lots of rock ledges that you can sit on at the far side which was cool.

There are also a whole lot of bats that live inside the cave and you can see them flying around and hanging from the ceiling. Which will be a positive to some people and a negative to others. We like it a lot.

Cenote Choo-Ha 💦

Cenote Choo-Ha is on the same road as Tankach-Ha and they are within walking distance apart. So you could also visit them at the same time. You just have to pay for tickets for both at the entrance to the road the cenotes are on which are 100 pesos (5 USD) each.

Cenote Choo-Ha is similar to Tankach-Ha because it is completely underground. Access is by stairs that go deep underground. But the cave is much shallower with prettier rock formations. So if you feel like chilling out rather than jumping off big platforms then Choo-Ha might be the cenote for you.

Cenote Multum-Ha 🏊‍♀️

Cenote Multum-Ha is the final cenote that you can visit. You will definitely need a bit of time if you want to visit all three cenotes. But every cenote I have visited has been amazing in its own way. So I think they are all worth visiting.

Cenote Multum-Ha is once again an underground cave cenote with a large platform above the water. This one is great for swimming but according to some reviews, it can get very busy later in the day. So you may want to get there early to avoid the crowds.

If you do not feel like organising a trip to Coba by yourself you can also book a tour. There is a Tulum and Coba Tour from Get Your Guide that has quite good reviews.

But I still recommend trying to visit by yourself because it gives you a lot more freedom to explore on your own!

Are The Coba Ruins Worth It?

In my opinion, they are definitely worth it. There are many ruins all over the Yucatan peninsula but Coba is not overrun with tourists yet. So it is well worth it if you would like to escape the crowds and visit a more authentic site.

That Brings Us To The End Of My Coba Ruins Guide

Visiting ruins and cenotes is my favorite thing to do in the Yucatan. If you would like to read about some more cool cenotes to visit in the Yucatan check out our Cenote Guide here and read all about Playa del Carmen here.

Hey there! Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that if you choose to make a purchase we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us to generate income and keep creating content for you. So we greatly appreciate your support! Thanks!

Hi, I am Allan, a travel, health and fitness fanatic from New Zealand. I'm a former lawyer who turned into a full-time nomad in 2020. For the last 4+ years I've been traveling the world. I'm always on a hunt for good food, activities on a budget and workouts on the go. I hope you find my tips helpful and get inspired to travel more!

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2 thoughts on “how to visit the coba ruins and nearby cenotes (2024)”.

Hi Allan, what a great and interesting article!! It was very educational for me to learn about Mayan history and culture. I found your description of the ball game particularly impressive! I am already looking forward to your next article!

Thanks Herbert! Yes I am really interested in the history of the Mayans so it was very easy for me to write it. I would like to write a guide for some more ruins soon.

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Visiting the Ancient Mayan Ruins of Coba – A Complete Guide

There are several ancient Mayan sites to choose from on the Yucatán peninsula and you might have a hard time deciding which ones to visit. Cobá is an excellent choice for those looking for the perfect combination of history and adventure. Not only does this ancient city provide the unique opportunity to climb an ancient Mayan pyramid, Cobá is also very different to many of the other historical sites. For example it’s enormous, not overly crowded and as it’s located in the midst of the thick jungle it provides an exciting wildlife experience. Entrance fee, how to get there, interesting facts and useful travel tips – this blog post includes all you need to know for planning your visit.

Cobá is the Ultimate Jungle Experience

Photo: Among many other animals Cobá is home to crocodiles, foxes, butterflies and several different species of birds.

Tweet, tweet, chirp. Tweet, tweet, chirp. Although hidden by the thick vegetation, the rhythmic sound carpet reveals a myriad of birds frequent this area. A giant blue morpho butterfly flutters past, disappearing into the dense green jungle. A splash in the water startles the wandering visitors. It’s a reminder that straying too far from the path is not recommended as crocodiles lurk in the murky waters. Suddenly a grey fox, the size of a small cat, shoots by. He has better things to do, than to stop and pose for pictures.

While the amount of wildlife might suggest some sort of a safari experience, the main attraction in Cobá is still the historical Mayan ruins. The wildlife is just an added bonus for the patient and quiet visitor. It is also one of the many things that make Cobá unique as an ancient Mayan site.

Photo: The giant Blue Morpho butterfly is a common sight in Cobá.

Feel Like Indiana Jones Touring Cobá

Photo: Just a small portion of ancient Cobá has been restored. Walking around the site you’ll see hundreds of crumbled piles of ruins. There’s estimated to be around 6 500 structures in ancient Cobá.

Today, Cobá draws visitors from all over the world. Yet, the vast enormousness of the site – ancient Cobá actually covers an area of over 70 square kilometres – absorbs the crowds quite well. Contrary to for example the Tulum ruins, you’ll probably get to have some corners of this place all to yourself.

Read more: Visiting Tulum Ruins – the Ultimate Travel Guide

Walking around this huge site on your own you’ll start feeling like Indiana Jones. Only around five percent of ancient Cobá is excavated and restored. Everywhere you look you’ll see crumbled heaps of old ruins with trees and roots jutting out of them.

Peering into the dense jungle one can only imagine what this great city must have been like during its peak, over thousand years ago. What treasures might there still be buried underneath these piles? Who knows – one day we might even discover some new clues that will help us understand why the Mayan civilization suddenly started to collapse after around 900 AD (the collapse was a slow and gradual process that started around 900 AD and progressed until the arrival of the Spanish during the 16 th century).

History Part 1 – a Politically Important Metropolis During its Zenith

The oldest structures found in Cobá are estimated to have been built at around 50-100 AD. The city grew steadily from 100 AD and reached its peak at around 800 AD. Most of the larger structures in Cobá were built around this time. During its height Cobá is believed to have had as many as 55 000 inhabitants, possibly even more.

In comparison, here are the populations of some other ancient Mayan cities during their peaks:

• Chichen Itzá around 50 000 inhabitants.
• Tulum around 1 600.
• Tikal in Guatemala around 100 000.

Situated in the middle of the jungle, Cobá was central in many aspects. Cobá has the largest network of sacbeobs – elevated ancient Mayan roads – that we know of today. Many of these roads connected different groups of structures to each other, but some led to other cities. One of the longest roads stretches on for over 100 kilometres towards the ancient city of Yaxuna, located close to Chichen Itzá.

Although we don’t know for sure, evidence points to Cobá being a very powerful city during its zenith around 800 AD. Not only did it have a large population, Cobá seems to have had control over a large geographic area as well, including many important trading routes. It has even been suggested Cobá might have been one of the biggest and most powerful cities in the northern Yucatán during its peak.

After around 1000 AD Cobá is believed to have started to lose some of its political power. That’s when several coastal cities, like Tulum, Xcaret, Tankah and El Rey began to grow more important.

Cobá still seems to have managed to maintain some religious importance and continued to be inhabited for several centuries. There are structures in Cobá that have been built as late as 1200-1500 AD (for example, the temple on top of the pyramid Nohoch Mul was added 1200 AD). By the time the Spaniards reached Mexico, however, Cobá had been abandoned.

History Part 2 – Female Rulers and Obsession with Time

For a long time we thought mainly men ruled the ancient Mayan civilization. However, as archaeological work progresses this theory has been challenged. Experts now believe that powerful female rulers weren’t uncommon in the ancient Mayan world.

In Cobá, several stelae (stones with hieroglyphs and pictures) have been found. These seem to portray an unusually large number of women, which has led experts to believe Cobá may have been one of the Mayan cities that had some female leaders.

The passage of time was something the ancient Mayans in general seem to have been almost obsessed with (not much unlike us modern-day humans) and the calendars were very important. The ancient Mayan calendar consisted of larger cycles each split into smaller periods of time. The smaller periods were called baktuns.

Cobá was no exception. In addition to Mayan calendars found here, an interesting discovery in Cobá is a reference to the oldest recorded date (that we know of today) in the Maya Long Count calendar. To be exact, a date 28 285 978 483 664 581 446 157 328 238 631 years ago!

Climbing the Mayan Pyramid Nohoch Mul

Photo: Descending the steep pyramid, you’ll see a lot of different techniques.

Although the wildlife and the Indiana Jones experience are already great reasons to visit the ancient Mayan city of Cobá, those aren’t the main attractions.

The reason Cobá is increasingly popular is the fact that it can boast with one of the highest Mayan structures constructed! The pyramid Nohoch Mul towers over the jungle, measuring 42 metres. Not only is it one of the highest Mayan structures on the Yucatán peninsula – it’s also one of very few pyramids left you are still allowed to climb.

Climbing up the 120 steps is such a unique experience many will visit Cobá just to do this. The view over the jungle – spreading out like a thick green carpet at your feet – is amazing! More on how to climb Nohoch Mul in my previous blog post (link below).

Read more: Climbing a Mayan pyramid – Ten tips for visiting the ancient Nohoch Mul in Cobá

Other Highlights of Visiting Cobá

Photo: There are two ball courts in Cobá, significantly smaller than the one in Chichen Itzá, but still interesting. This one is located near the pyramid Nohoch Mul.

Although it’s hard to rival the exhilarating pyramid climbing, Cobá does have many other interesting structures to see. They’re not as beautifully restored as the ones in for example Chichen Itzá, but on the other hand, you’ll get to admire them without the impossible crowds.

Don’t miss Iglesia by the Grupo Cobá cluster by the entrance. This high structure can be seen from the top of Nohoch Mul. According to some sources, this structure was used for Maya ceremonies for a long time after the city was abandoned. There are some narrow passageways you can walk through, but crouch down if you’re tall – you’ll notice the ancient Mayans were a bit smaller than many of us humans today.

There are two equally intriguing ball courts. A smaller one by Grupo Cobá – some guides will tell you this was a practice court (however, this is just one theory). The other one is near Nohoch Mul. This one has an unusually well preserved human skull carved into stone at the centre of the court. There’s also a stelae with the Mayan calendar.

At Grupo Macanxoc you’ll find several stelae, most of which were carved during the 7 th century. These portray an unusually large number of women as well as the oldest date found in the Maya Long Count calendar (see section History part 2 for more on these two subjects).

How to Visit Cobá – Guided Tour or Independently

Photo: Eagles (I assume, not one hundred percent sure though) on top of Iglesia in Cobá.

There are three ways to see Cobá. You can either opt for one of the guided tours with all included or do it independently. You can also choose to get to the site independently and then get a guide by the ruins.

Wherever you’re staying – be it Tulum, Cancún or Playa del Carmen – you’ll most certainly be offered tours to Cobá. Many of the larger hotels organise their own tours for guests. Although these do have the convenience that comes with these kinds of package deals, like transportation, they can be very pricy. Considering the entrance fee is only 70 pesos (around 3 euros), paying 60-80 dollars for this feels extravagant (in my opinion).

Seeing Cobá independently is definitely a good choice, at least if you’re up for a little adventure! Getting here driving is easy (more on how to get here further down) and there’s parking right by the entrance. This will certainly save you a few bucks, at least if you’re not travelling solo and there are more people to split the cost of renting a car and driving.

In case driving isn’t an option, but you’d still like to do Cobá independently, you can take the ADO bus from Playa del Carmen or Tulum for around 5-10 euros per direction. However, the schedule isn’t ideal, at least not at the moment. You’ll get to Cobá after 10 am when most of the big groups get there.

A fourth, albeit expensive, alternative is taking a taxi and ask the driver to wait for you while you visit the site.

Do you need a guide or not?

Personally, I don’t think you do, provided you’ve done your research. Although I should probably mention I majored in history and am a real history geek. I spent days reading up about Mayan history before our visit.

But even if you’re not a history geek and haven’t researched ancient Mayan history, you might find the informations boards on site sufficient. There are plenty of information boards throughout the site by different structures providing snippets of interesting information. There are also a lot of great guidebooks available about the Yucatán peninsula in general, so if you’re carrying one with you, you might find it to be enough.

However, if you’re not at all familiar with Mayan history or if you prefer hearing someone else tell you facts instead of reading yourself I’d say go for a guide. This might also be a good alternative if you’re the kind of person who likes to ask questions.

You can get a guide by the entrance.

How to Get to Cobá by Car

Photo: Watch out for topes (speed bumps) along the way.

Personally, I highly recommend renting a car and driving to Cobá. The drive is fairly short and easy, especially if you’re located in Tulum. It’s less than 50 kilometres from Tulum to Cobá and it takes about 45 minutes. There are signs for Cobá along the way, making it easy to find your way without a map.

From Cancún you’re looking at a little over 130 kilometres and over 2 hours. From Playa del Carmen the drive is around 110 kilometres and around 1,5 hours.

There’s parking right outside for 50 pesos.

If you’re considering renting a car, make sure you read my blog post about driving in Mexico (link below).

Read more: What you need to know before renting a car and driving in Mexico – a complete guide

Top Tips for Visiting Cobá

Photo: Sitting at the top of Nohoch Mul, looking out over the jungle the mind starts to wander. Most ancient Mayan ruins are still buried under dense vegetation. Who knows what we’ll find in the future?

Here are some of my best tips for visiting Cobá. For even more tips check out my blog post with seven useful travel tips for visiting Cobá (link below).

Read more: Seven useful travel tips for visiting the ancient Mayan city of Cobá 

Start with the pyramid

Cobá is far from crowded compared to Chichen Itzá and Tulum. However, most of the people that do come here are going to climb the pyramid. Thus, the pyramid can get very busy during the middle of the day.

If you’re planning on climbing the pyramid, make sure you get to Cobá as early as possible (at 8.30-9 am at the latest). Skip the group of ruins by the entrance – you’ll see them before exiting – and head straight for the pyramid.

Once you’ve seen the pyramid you can see the rest of the site enjoying the tranquillity, progressing from one end to the other.

Consider renting a bike or taking a bicycle-taxi

Renting a bike or taking a bicycle-taxi is something many people chose to do. It’s been pointed out a few times already, but the area is enormous. Add the heat and the humidity and it can get physically exhausting.

Many travellers who have rented bikes have been raving about it – it does seem to make exploring the site a lot of fun and it certainly is easier and faster. However, one of the highlights of visiting Cobá is exploring the jungle paths and listening to the wildlife. Swishing past on a bike you’ll miss a bit of this part of the experience.

If you want to save some energy, but don’t want to commit to a bike for the whole visit, another option is to get a bicycle-taxi to drive to one part and then you can walk about freely after. I recommend starting with this and letting the driver take you to Nohoch Mul (this cost 75 pesos). This way you’ll get there as early as possible, save some energy and then be free to walk about as you please.

Bring water and snacks

Contrary to for example the ruins in Tulum, you’ll get to experience Cobá in the shade of the jungle vegetation – for the most parts at least. However, it does still get hot and sweaty on a warm day. There aren’t any vendors once you enter the site (with the exception of water being sold by the entrance where the bicycles are located).

As the site is enormous, those who plan on seeing everything might be looking at up to 4 hours of exploring! In other words, make sure you bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, as well as some snacks to help you get through the adventure. Just make sure to dispose of any garbage in a proper way (no littering!).

Dress smart – comfortable shoes are key

If you’re planning on seeing the whole archaeological site you will be doing a lot of walking. We’re talking about several kilometres. The distance from the entrance to Nohoch Mul is already two kilometres) and by the end of this trip the step counter showed 18.000 steps.

Visiting Cobá in high heels, flip-flops or any similar type of footwear is not smart. You should be wearing sturdy trainers or hiking shoes that you feel comfortable in walking the whole day. Footwear is especially important if you’re planning on climbing the pyramid. You need a pair of shoes that you can rely on. Leave the short skirt or dress at home as well, if you’re climbing the pyramid.

Although a lot of Cobá can be explored in the cool comfort of jungle shade you might still want to cover your head. A hat or cap will protect you from the powerful sun in the areas where there isn’t shade (for example climbing the pyramid).

Snap a picture of the map

Are you exploring the site independently without a guide? Since the area is enormous, you might have a hard time knowing what’s where once you’re inside exploring.

There are no maps handed out as you enter, once inside you’re on your own.

That’s why snapping a picture of the map, located right by the main entrance, is a good idea. When you’re unsure, you can check the map on your phone.

When to Visit Cobá

The hurricane season in Mexico lasts from June to November, so if possible you might want to steer clear of this period. The rainier the weather, the muddier the site.

If possible, avoid visiting on a Sunday. On Sundays people of Mexican nationality get to visit archaeological sites for free. Although this isn’t as notable as in some of the more crowded sites, it might still be worth picking another day if you can.

As with many other popular sites, get there early (or very late). Try to get to Cobá by 8.30-9.30 am at the latest.

Visiting Cobá in a Nutshell

• Open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.
• Entrance fee is 70 pesos (around 3 euros).
• Arrive early (before 10 am) to beat the crowds.
• Parking fee is 50 pesos.
• Toilets by the main entrance before you enter. No toilets once inside.
• No vendors on site (except a small stall selling water).
• Small souvenir and convenience store outside the main entrance selling water and snacks.
• Reserve at least a couple of hours, preferably more for exploring the site.
• Make sure to stop and listen to the jungle sounds and spot wildlife: for example foxes, butterflies and a myriad of birds can be sighted.
• Highlights also include climbing the 42 metres high pyramid Nohoch Mul.
• If you’re planning on climbing Nohoch Mul dress smartly.
• Provides a unique chance to really get close to history as you’re still allowed to touch and climb many structures.

Fast Facts About Ancient Cobá

• Cobá means “water stirred by wind” in Mayan. A fitting name since it’s located right by two lakes.
• A rough estimate is that there are 6 500 structures in Cobá.
• Only a small percentage of the structures have been restored.
• Ancient Cobá was at its peak around 800 AD.
• At this time it estimated to have had around 55 000 inhabitants.
• Cobá has the largest network of Mayan sacbe-roads (that we know of today).
• The area is enormous: it covers over 70 square kilometres.
• Because of an unusually large number of stelae portraying women found here, Cobá is believed to have had female rulers.
• Cobá is home to a stelae with the oldest date recorded in the Mayan Long Count calendar (that we know of today). It’s a reference to a date 28 285 978 483 664 581 446 157 328 238 631 years ago!

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