Kohunlich Ruins
Discover Kohunlich, a tranquil Mayan ruin site in Quintana Roo, known for its iconic Temple of the Masks and jungle setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer people
Kohunlich Ruins
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer people
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Kohunlich, a tranquil Mayan ruin site in Quintana Roo, known for its iconic Temple of the Masks and jungle setting.
"An absolutely hidden gem with affordable entry and the unique chance to climb ancient Mayan pyramids."
🚗 Rough Road Ahead
The road to Kohunlich has potholes; drive slowly and allow extra time.
💧 Pack Your Own Drinks
No food or drink vendors on-site. Bring plenty of water and snacks!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Temple of the Masks
Central Plaza
Marvel at the iconic stucco masks of the sun god, a unique feature of Kohunlich.
The Great Acropolis
Main complex
Explore the grand structures and imagine life in this ancient Mayan city.
Climbable Pyramids
Various structures
Ascend some of the pyramids for panoramic jungle views and a sense of discovery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Road Conditions & Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rough Road Ahead
The road to Kohunlich has potholes; drive slowly and allow extra time.
💧 Pack Your Own Drinks
No food or drink vendors on-site. Bring plenty of water and snacks! +1
💰 Affordable Entry
Entry fee is around 85-100 pesos. Great value for money!
🐒 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for monkeys; they might even follow you!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rough Road Ahead
The road to Kohunlich has potholes; drive slowly and allow extra time.
💧 Pack Your Own Drinks
No food or drink vendors on-site. Bring plenty of water and snacks! +1
💰 Affordable Entry
Entry fee is around 85-100 pesos. Great value for money!
🐒 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for monkeys; they might even follow you!
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
You can climb many structures and see the site in about 1.5 hours.
📸 Photo Fees
Be aware of potential fees for video recording, but photos are generally allowed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kohunlich is praised as a hidden gem offering an authentic Mayan ruin experience with fewer crowds and the unique opportunity to climb structures. While the road can be challenging and on-site facilities are minimal, the historical significance, especially the Temple of the Masks, and the jungle setting make it a worthwhile visit. Some visitors note that mask visibility has been reduced for preservation.
"Guided tour. They warn you about $10 fee for taking videos, but we were allowed to snap cell phone photos OK.
Great ongoing archaeological site with good interpretive signs. We went with a tour guide who was entertaining and well informed. Wonderful afternoon if you like this sort of thing. Read up on Wikipedia to get context."
Paul Arntson
"Absolutely a hidden gem - the road to get here is full of potholes so will take you longer than the sat nav suggests, but well worth it. Lots to see and a very big site including a pyramid with preserved red paint and face carvings. Entry fee was $100 pesos and toilets were open, although no other facilities. It was very quiet when we visited on a Sunday, with only a few other people seen on the whole trip."
Jonny Williams
"Absolute disappointing since the masks (highlight of the site) have been put into some boxes with some mosqito net. This means that the visibilty is extremely reduced. According to our guide to protect the masks. It is not allowed to bring food into the site and the restrooms are disgusting."
Bernd Winckler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kohunlich is about an hour's drive from Chetumal. The road can be rough with potholes, so allow ample travel time. Many visitors opt for guided tours that include transportation from Chetumal or cruise ports like Costa Maya.
Yes, Kohunlich is a popular excursion from Costa Maya. Cruise lines and independent tour operators offer trips, often combining it with other nearby sites. 
The road leading to Kohunlich is known for being bumpy and having potholes. It's advisable to drive cautiously or opt for a tour with experienced drivers.
Yes, you can drive yourself if you have a suitable vehicle. Navigation apps can help, but be prepared for the road conditions.
Public transportation directly to Kohunlich is limited. Most visitors arrive via organized tours or private transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 85-100 Mexican Pesos per person, making it a very affordable visit.
While the entry fee is straightforward, be aware that there might be a separate fee for video recording. Cell phone photography is generally permitted without extra charge.
The ruins are generally open daily, but it's always a good idea to check current hours before your visit, especially if traveling during holidays.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance. Booking in advance is generally not necessary unless you are part of a large organized tour.
Yes, Kohunlich is an excellent option for a day trip, especially if you are staying in Chetumal or visiting from a cruise port.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, visitors are allowed to climb many of the structures at Kohunlich, offering unique perspectives and photo opportunities.
Most visitors can explore the main areas of Kohunlich in about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and interest.
Guided tours are highly recommended to understand the history and significance of the ruins. Guides can be hired on-site or booked in advance. +1
Don't miss the Temple of the Masks, the Great Acropolis, and the various residential structures that showcase Mayan architecture.
Kohunlich is often described as a hidden gem and is generally less crowded than more famous Mayan sites like Chichen Itza, especially on weekdays. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food or drink vendors within the Kohunlich ruins site itself. It's essential to bring your own provisions. +1
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. Shady grassy areas are perfect for a picnic.
Dining options are scarce immediately around the ruins. It's best to eat before you go or plan to dine in Chetumal or Xpujil after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the Kohunlich ruins. However, be mindful of potential fees for professional video recording.
The Temple of the Masks, the panoramic views from the top of the pyramids, and the jungle surroundings offer excellent photo opportunities.
Drone usage policies can vary and are often restricted at archaeological sites. It's best to check with the site administration or your tour operator beforehand.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. The site is generally manageable in size for a family outing, and the lack of overwhelming crowds makes it a more relaxed experience. Consider a guided tour to keep kids engaged with stories and facts about the Mayan civilization.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, pack your own food and drinks and consider arranging transportation independently if you're comfortable navigating local roads. This allows you to experience a significant Mayan ruin without breaking the bank.
🚢 Cruise Ship Excursioners (Costa Maya)
+1Be prepared for the journey time and the rougher road conditions. Bringing your own water and snacks is crucial, as is wearing comfortable shoes for exploring the site and climbing the structures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Masks
The intricate details and sheer scale of these masks offer a unique glimpse into the artistic and religious practices of the ancient Maya. Unlike many other sites where such elaborate decorations have long since eroded, Kohunlich provides a rare opportunity to witness this aspect of Mayan artistry firsthand. The surrounding jungle setting only adds to the mystique of these ancient carvings.
Exploring the Jungle Setting
+1The dense vegetation surrounding the ruins creates a sense of discovery and isolation, making it feel like you've stumbled upon a lost city. This natural environment also means that the site can be humid and warm, so dressing appropriately and staying hydrated is crucial. The shade provided by the trees, however, offers welcome respite during your exploration.
+1Kohunlich vs. Other Mayan Sites
+2Its affordability and the ability to climb many of the structures also set it apart. For travelers seeking an authentic, less commercialized Mayan ruin experience, Kohunlich is an excellent choice. It provides a valuable historical perspective without the typical tourist hustle, making it a rewarding stop for those interested in Mayan culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit