Oxtankah Archaeological Zone Chetumal
Discover Oxtankah, a serene Mayan archaeological zone in Chetumal's jungle. Climb ancient temples and explore a hidden gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer mosquitoes, cooler temps
Oxtankah Archaeological Zone Chetumal
Best Time
Fewer mosquitoes, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Oxtankah, a serene Mayan archaeological zone in Chetumal's jungle. Climb ancient temples and explore a hidden gem.
"A quiet, hands-on Mayan site in the jungle, but be prepared for mosquitoes and potential tourist pricing."
🦟 Bring Plenty of Bug Spray!
Mosquitoes are a major issue here. Don't forget to pack strong repellent, or you'll regret it!
👟 Wear Good Walking Shoes
The jungle terrain can be uneven and some structures are slippery. Comfortable, grippy shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Climbable Temples
Main structures
Explore ancient Mayan structures, some of which you can climb for panoramic jungle views. Be cautious, as surfaces can be slippery.
Jungle Immersion
Throughout the site
Experience Mayan ruins nestled within the lush jungle, offering an intimate and less crowded atmosphere than larger sites.
Stucco Sculpture Remains
Various buildings
Discover remnants of original stucco sculptures, hinting at the site's former artistic grandeur.
On-site Museum
Entrance area
A small museum provides context and displays artifacts found at the archaeological zone.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mosquitoes & Humidity: Be Prepared!
Pricing & Filming Fees: Know Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Bring Plenty of Bug Spray!
Mosquitoes are a major issue here. Don't forget to pack strong repellent, or you'll regret it! +1
👟 Wear Good Walking Shoes
The jungle terrain can be uneven and some structures are slippery. Comfortable, grippy shoes are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The humidity is intense. Carry plenty of water to avoid dehydration during your visit.
💰 Check Filming Fees
Be aware of extra charges for video recording, especially with professional equipment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Bring Plenty of Bug Spray!
Mosquitoes are a major issue here. Don't forget to pack strong repellent, or you'll regret it! +1
👟 Wear Good Walking Shoes
The jungle terrain can be uneven and some structures are slippery. Comfortable, grippy shoes are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The humidity is intense. Carry plenty of water to avoid dehydration during your visit.
💰 Check Filming Fees
Be aware of extra charges for video recording, especially with professional equipment.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Own Pace
This quiet site allows for a more intimate experience. Enjoy the tranquility and history without the crowds. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oxtankah is a tranquil Mayan ruin nestled in the jungle, praised for its intimate atmosphere and climbable structures. Visitors appreciate the quiet, hands-on experience and the natural setting. However, some tourists find the pricing for foreigners, especially filming fees, to be excessive compared to the site's size and offerings.
"Too expensive for foreigners! The ruins are small not that impressive and they charge you double if u want to take a video. It is a rip off!! I am ok with the entrance fee which is $75 pesos but don’t show a GoPro or a film camera because they will charge you another $75 I think is outrageous they charge you to be able to film, and taking in account that for local is completely free…. No entrance fee or nothing. They just ripping off tourist. If I compare to the pyramids of Teotihuacán that are only $100 pesos and is a huge complex and u can film and walk pretty much wherever this is not a good deal!!
Besides is a million mosquitos that make you run through the whole tour ! Not worth the money… i wouldn’t pay a dime to go in there again. 👎🏽👎🏽"
Diego Camargo
"Very nice and quiet place! This is a hidden gem not too far from the city of Chetumal. You kind of have to drive through secondary roads to get there so that's most likely why people don't even bother to go and visit the site. And they are wrong!
Beautiful buildings and temples and you're allowed to climb them! Just be careful beaches it's very slippery. The site is in the middle of the jungle and it's very humid there.
There is enough parking at the entrance and the staff is very friendly. They keep a book which you have to sign and state the country where you come from.
Bug spray is a must here!"
Gerry Ghostrider
"A really out of the way site but a surprisingly good one. Three groups of structures have been excavated and partially restored. At least 10 buildings and altars can be seen and climbed. There are remains of original stucco sculpture still left in places and there is a small museum on site. All for about a 65 pesos. Not too bad at all and I dare say that if the trees were cleared away this place would be nicer than Tulum."
Bobby C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oxtankah is located about 7 km from Chetumal. You'll likely need to drive or take a taxi, as public transport options are limited. The drive involves secondary roads, which might be why it's considered a hidden gem.
While it's close to Chetumal, the route involves secondary roads, so using GPS or asking for directions is recommended.
The roads leading to the site are described as secondary roads. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for potentially less-maintained paths.
Yes, there is enough parking available at the entrance of the archaeological zone.
Yes, Oxtankah is a feasible day trip from Bacalar, as it's located near Chetumal, which is on the route between Bacalar and other destinations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is reported to be around 65-75 pesos for visitors. However, some reviews mention a significant price difference for foreigners compared to locals, with locals often entering for free.
Yes, visitors have reported additional fees for filming, especially with equipment like GoPros or video cameras. This has been a point of contention for some tourists.
Advance booking is generally not required for Oxtankah. Tickets can typically be purchased upon arrival at the site.
Specific opening hours can vary, but archaeological sites in Mexico are generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or arrive earlier in the day.
Yes, reviews indicate a significant price difference, with locals often having free entry while foreigners pay an entrance fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, visitors are allowed to climb some of the beautiful buildings and temples. However, be very careful as the surfaces can be slippery.
The site is located in the jungle, so expect uneven terrain and humidity. The grounds are not completely cleared, giving it an intimate feel. +1
Oxtankah is generally a very quiet and calm place, often described as a hidden gem with few visitors. +1
Oxtankah was an important Mayan settlement. The site features excavated structures and remains of stucco sculpture, offering a glimpse into its history.
Information on guided tours is limited, but the site is small enough to explore independently. The staff is generally friendly and may offer insights.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but be aware that there may be additional fees for video recording, especially with professional equipment.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light filtering through the jungle canopy. Early mornings can also be good before the heat sets in.
Specific drone regulations are not widely mentioned, but it's always best to check with local authorities or site staff before flying a drone at any archaeological site.
You can capture images of the Mayan ruins nestled in the jungle, close-ups of stucco remnants, and panoramic views from the climbable structures. +1
Yes, with a smartphone, you can capture the intimate atmosphere and the beauty of the ruins within their natural jungle setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there's a small museum, the primary draw for families will be the hands-on exploration. Keep an eye on children, especially when climbing, as surfaces can be slippery. The relatively low cost for locals might be a factor if you are a Mexican family, but be aware of potential higher fees for foreign tourists.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize value, focus on the exploration and historical aspects. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid on-site purchases. The main 'cost' beyond admission might be the necessity of purchasing strong bug spray, which is essential. Given its quiet nature, it's an excellent place to spend a few hours absorbing history without the pressure of large crowds or expensive tours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Jungle: Flora, Fauna, and the Mosquito Menace
While mosquitoes are the primary concern, the jungle setting also contributes to the site's intimate appeal. Unlike more cleared-out ruins, Oxtankah retains a sense of discovery, with trees and vegetation weaving through the structures. This can make for unique photographic opportunities, with dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the jungle floor and the ancient stones can be slippery, especially after rain.
Understanding the Pricing and Visitor Experience
This perception of unequal pricing can detract from the otherwise positive aspects of the site, such as its quiet atmosphere and the hands-on nature of exploration. The presence of a small museum on-site offers some historical context, and the friendly staff are noted. However, potential visitors should be prepared for these financial considerations and research current fees before their visit to manage expectations and avoid surprises.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit