Mixco Viejo
Explore one of Guatemala's oldest Mayan cities, Mixco Viejo, offering ancient ruins and breathtaking scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Mixco Viejo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore one of Guatemala's oldest Mayan cities, Mixco Viejo, offering ancient ruins and breathtaking scenic views.
"It was well worth the two-hour drive from Guatemala City; it did not disappoint! "
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It gets very hot! Buy water at the last store before the bridge. :droplet:
☀️ Wear Light Clothing
Opt for breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in the open, sunny environment. :sunny:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Mayan Ruins
Explore one of Guatemala's oldest Mayan cities, offering a glimpse into a rich historical past.
Scenic Vistas
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from atop the ancient structures.
Kid-Friendly Exploration
Children can safely climb the steps and explore the ruins, making it a fun historical adventure for families.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Plan Your Entry and Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It gets very hot! Buy water at the last store before the bridge. :droplet:
☀️ Wear Light Clothing
Opt for breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in the open, sunny environment. :sunny:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Know the Entrance Fees
Foreigners pay Q50, locals Q5, and kids under 10 are free. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It gets very hot! Buy water at the last store before the bridge. :droplet:
☀️ Wear Light Clothing
Opt for breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in the open, sunny environment. :sunny:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Know the Entrance Fees
Foreigners pay Q50, locals Q5, and kids under 10 are free. :moneybag:
📸 Capture the Views
The archaeological site offers stunning photo opportunities of ruins and landscapes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mixco Viejo's stunning archaeological ruins and beautiful scenic views, calling it a well-worth-it destination. While the heat can be intense and amenities are scarce, the historical significance and family-friendly exploration opportunities make it a highly recommended site.
"We went on a weekday and there was really no one there except us. The ruins are a sight to see for sure! Beautiful landscape! The ruins are big but small enough for kids to climb cautiously. It was very very hot as everything is out in the open. There is no place to buy water or snacks once inside so stop at the last store right as you pass the big bridge and get water! There are restrooms that were decent. The kids enjoyed climbing on the steps and the Mango trees 🥭! There was some shaded spots and the breeze felt so good! Lots of history! Tourist pay $50Q, locals pay $5Q, kids under 10 are free."
Jacqueline Moreno Cruz
"Mixco Viejo is a stunning archaeological site perfect for sightseeing! The ancient Mayan ruins are surrounded by scenic views, offering a mix of history and natural beauty. It’s a peaceful spot to explore and soak in the culture."
Rachel Raak
"We were so excited a friend told us about this place and he said it was well worth the two-hour drive from Guatemala City. He was right, it did not disappoint! There or a lot more ruins than we thought there would be and the layout is very very large. So many amazing views and things to climb. We really enjoyed it and it was only Q5.00 for adults to enter and kids are free. Parking was also free."
Bret Ostendorf
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mixco Viejo is located about an hour and a half to two hours from Guatemala City. The drive is considered well worth it by many visitors.
It's recommended to have your own transportation or arrange a private tour for the most convenient access.
While public transport might be challenging, some visitors have mentioned it's possible with careful planning. However, for ease and flexibility, private transport is generally preferred.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary: tourists pay Q50, locals pay Q5, and children under 10 enter for free.
Yes, locals receive a significant discount on admission compared to foreign visitors. Children under 10 also get in for free.
Information on online ticket purchases is not widely available. It's best to assume you'll purchase tickets upon arrival at the site.
Specific opening hours are not always clearly stated, but visiting during daylight hours is recommended for sightseeing and safety. Weekdays are often less crowded.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Mixco Viejo is an archaeological site featuring ancient Mayan ruins, offering historical insights and beautiful scenic views.
Yes, children often enjoy climbing the steps and exploring the ruins cautiously. It's a great place for families to learn about history together.
Many visitors spend a couple of hours exploring the site, but some wish they had more time to fully appreciate its size and layout. Allocate at least 2-3 hours for a thorough visit.
While much of the site is exposed, there are some shaded spots available, particularly around the mango trees. The breeze can also offer some relief from the heat.
Restrooms are available and are described as decent. However, there are no places to buy water or snacks once inside the archaeological park.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no vendors selling food or drinks inside Mixco Viejo. It's essential to bring your own supplies.
The last store you pass right before crossing the big bridge leading to Mixco Viejo is the recommended spot to purchase water and snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient ruins themselves, especially from different vantage points, offer great photographic opportunities. The panoramic views of the surrounding landscape are also stunning.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Mixco Viejo. Visitors are encouraged to capture the historical structures and scenic beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no vendors inside the park.
💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, pack your own food and drinks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient Cachiquel City
Visiting Mixco Viejo provides a unique opportunity to step back in time. The layout of the ruins is vast, encouraging exploration and discovery. Many visitors express a desire to have spent more time here, highlighting the depth of history and the sheer scale of the archaeological site.
Key features of Mixco Viejo include its numerous structures and plazas, which speak to its former prominence. The site is not just about viewing ruins; it's about experiencing the atmosphere of a place that has witnessed centuries of history. The landscape surrounding the ruins adds to the allure, offering picturesque backdrops for your exploration.
Navigating Mixco Viejo: Practicalities and Comfort
Comfortable attire is essential. Light, breathable clothing will help you manage the heat, and sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the uneven terrain and climbing the ancient steps.
Restrooms are available and generally considered decent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit