Exploring Coba, Mexico: A Journey Through Ancient Mayan Ruins

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and want to experience the mystique of an ancient Mayan city without the overwhelming crowds of Chichén Itzá, then Coba is the perfect destination. Nestled in the jungle, about 45 minutes from Tulum and roughly two hours from Cancun, Coba offers a more adventurous and immersive experience than other archaeological sites in the region. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know before visiting Coba, from what to expect to how to make the most of your trip.

What is Coba?

Coba (pronounced Koh-bah) was once a thriving Mayan city, estimated to have been inhabited between 600-900 AD, though some parts of the site date back even earlier. Unlike other Mayan cities that were built in more open landscapes, Coba is surrounded by dense jungle, giving visitors the feeling of stepping into a lost world. At its peak, the city is believed to have housed over 50,000 people and contained an extensive network of stone causeways (sacbé) connecting various structures and neighboring settlements.

One of the highlights of Coba is Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula, standing at approximately 137 feet (42 meters). While climbing the pyramid was once a thrilling activity for visitors, as of 2024, it remains closed to climbing due to preservation efforts. However, the view from below is still awe-inspiring, and the site offers plenty of other incredible ruins to explore.

What to Expect When Visiting Coba

1. Getting to Coba

Coba is located about:

• 45 minutes from Tulum
• 1.5 hours from Playa del Carmen
• 2 hours from Cancun

You can reach Coba by rental car, bus, or guided tour. If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is the best option, as it allows you to explore at your own pace and visit nearby cenotes. ADO buses and colectivos (shared vans) also run from Tulum, but schedules can be irregular. Many tour companies in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum offer day trips to Coba, often combined with a visit to cenotes or Valladolid.

2. Arriving at the Site

Coba’s entrance fee is around 100-200 MXN ($6-$12 USD) per person, but prices can fluctuate depending on new regulations. The site opens daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entrance usually around 4:30 PM. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Once inside, you’ll find that Coba is much larger than many expect—it spans over 30 square miles (80 km²)! Unlike Chichén Itzá, where structures are clustered together, Coba is spread out. This means you’ll have to walk, bike, or take a pedicab (bicitaxi) to get around.

3. Exploring the Ruins

Since the ruins are dispersed, here are your options for getting around:

• Walking – If you don’t mind hiking through the jungle, you can explore on foot. Just be prepared for a lot of walking in humid conditions.
• Biking – Bikes are available for rent at the entrance for around 50 MXN ($3 USD), and this is one of the best ways to see Coba efficiently.
• Bicitaxi – A pedicab driven by a local guide costs about 150-200 MXN ($9-$12 USD) and is a good option if you prefer a more relaxed experience.

Must-See Highlights in Coba:

• Nohoch Mul Pyramid – The tallest structure at Coba, once climbable but now only available for viewing.
• Ball Courts (Juego de Pelota) – Two courts where the ancient Mayans played their sacred ball game.
• Sacbéob (White Roads) – The ancient stone causeways connecting different parts of the city.
• The Observatory – A round, tower-like structure believed to have been used for astronomy and ceremonial purposes.
• Grupo Macanxoc – A secluded area with ancient stelae (carved stone monuments) depicting rulers and rituals.

4. Wildlife & Jungle Atmosphere

Unlike other ruins that sit in open landscapes, Coba is still enveloped by thick jungle. You may hear howler monkeys in the distance, see iguanas basking in the sun, and spot tropical birds fluttering between trees. The shade from the jungle makes exploring more comfortable, but the humidity can still be intense—so dress appropriately.

5. What to Bring

• Comfortable Walking Shoes – The terrain is uneven, and you’ll be covering a lot of ground.
• Water & Snacks – There are small shops at the entrance, but it’s best to bring your own.
• Bug Spray – Mosquitoes thrive in the jungle, especially in the wet season.
• Sunscreen & Hat – While there’s shade, some areas are exposed to direct sunlight.
• Cash – Some vendors and bike rentals may not accept cards.

Nearby Attractions

A trip to Coba can be easily combined with other fantastic destinations in the region:

• Cenotes Around Coba – Several cenotes (natural sinkholes) are just a short drive from the ruins. Popular ones include Cenote Choo-Ha, Cenote Tankach-Ha, and Cenote Multum-Ha, all great for swimming after exploring the ruins.
• Valladolid – A charming colonial town about 45 minutes away, perfect for lunch and sightseeing.
• Tulum – If you’re based in Tulum, visiting Coba makes for a great half-day trip.

Final Thoughts

Coba is an incredible place to visit if you’re looking for a mix of history, adventure, and nature. Unlike more tourist-heavy ruins like Chichén Itzá, Coba retains a raw and mysterious quality, giving you a more authentic experience. Whether you explore by foot, bike, or bicitaxi, the journey through the jungle and ancient pathways will leave you with a sense of wonder about the great Mayan civilization.

So, if you’re in the Riviera Maya and want to step back in time, add Coba to your must-visit list!