Aké Archaeological Zone
Climb the ancient Kinich Kak Moo pyramid for stunning jungle views in the heart of the charming yellow city of Izamal. Free entry!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Aké Archaeological Zone
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb the ancient Kinich Kak Moo pyramid for stunning jungle views in the heart of the charming yellow city of Izamal. Free entry!
"It's one of only a few pyramids on the entire Yucatan you can still climb and enjoy the views from the top."
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the site. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay hydrated
The Yucatan sun can be intense. Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to climb the pyramid. :droplet:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 283 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kinich Kak Moo Pyramid
Center of Izamal
Climb to the summit of this ancient pyramid for breathtaking jungle vistas and a unique historical experience.
Izamal's Colonial Convent
Adjacent to the ruins
Explore the impressive San Antonio de Padua Convent, built on Mayan foundations, showcasing a blend of cultures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb the Sun Pyramid
Free Entry & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Yucatan trip - What should be cut out? What is missing?
My partner and I are planning on visiting parts of the Yucatan peninsula in March. We have 6 full days. Our focus are archeological sites (but don't want to be overwhelmed), swimming, and culture. We're fluent Spanish speakers. My partner doesn't like being rushed, and enjoys…
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the site. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay hydrated
The Yucatan sun can be intense. Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to climb the pyramid. :droplet:
travel in the Yucatan peninsula’s west side
I’m thinking on doing a trip on the peninsula’s west side. I’d like to visit Chichen Itza, Merida, Palenque. What else in between Chichen Itza and Palenque is worth checking out? has anyone done this before? I have 4ish days. would love to hear what people-with a decent amount…
Are there any hidden mayan ruins you recommend going to?
I recently read an old book about hidden ruins that a traveller found along the coast of Quintana Roo (the Chemax ruins that can be found on the road from Tulum to Punta Allen was one in particular that caught my eye), and I was wondering if anyone is aware of any other ruins…
📸 Capture the views
The climb to the top of Kinich Kak Moo offers fantastic photo opportunities of the surrounding jungle. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Be aware of local dogs
Several friendly dogs often roam the site. They are usually harmless but good to be mindful of. 🐕
Yucatan trip - What is missing? What can be cut out?
My partner and I are planning on visiting parts of the Yucatan peninsula in March. We have 6 full days. Our focus are archeological sites (but don't want to be overwhelmed), swimming, and culture. We're fluent Spanish speakers. My partner doesn't like being rushed, and enjoys…
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the site. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay hydrated
The Yucatan sun can be intense. Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to climb the pyramid. :droplet:
📸 Capture the views
The climb to the top of Kinich Kak Moo offers fantastic photo opportunities of the surrounding jungle. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Be aware of local dogs
Several friendly dogs often roam the site. They are usually harmless but good to be mindful of. 🐕
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the free entry and the unique opportunity to climb the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid for great views. However, some note that the site is smaller than other ruins and lacks detailed explanations, with recent reports suggesting potential inaccessibility.
"The archaeological site of Izamal is pretty small compared to others in the area.
It's located in the very center of Izamal village - in fact the Mayan town enabled the town to be built, as the Spaniards used its stones as foundations for their buildings, even for the Convent.
Doing so, they demolished 4 other pyramids that were in the area with only one left standing - the Kinich Kak Moo, God of Sun pyramid. It's one of only few pyramids on entire Yucatan you can still climb and enjoy the views from the top.
Also, the site is totally free to enter with no admission fee."
Dejan Braki
"Interesting place with nice view on jungle, not much to see though."
Marek Žák
"Free entrance to a Mayan ruin. No explanations given of what we were seeing and it had been rebuilt quite messily using concrete. Still, worth a visit if you're in Izamal."
Nicola Thomason
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Aké Archaeological Zone is not in Valladolid, but rather in Izamal. From Valladolid, you can drive to Izamal, which takes about 1.5 hours. If you don't have a car, consider hiring a taxi or looking into local bus routes, though these might be less direct.
Yes, the archaeological site is located right in the center of Izamal, making it very accessible once you arrive in the town. It's integrated into the town's layout.
Izamal is accessible by car, and there are also ADO buses that run from major cities like Mérida and Valladolid to Izamal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the entrance to the archaeological site in Izamal, including the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid, is completely free.
The site is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, recent reviews indicate it may be closed off and inaccessible as of November 2024, so it's advisable to check locally before your visit.
Since there is no admission fee, advance booking is not necessary. However, due to potential closures, it's best to confirm accessibility locally.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid, which you can climb for views. You'll also see remnants of Mayan structures and the Spanish convent built upon them. It's a smaller site compared to others.
Yes, the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid is one of the few in the Yucatan that you can still climb. Be prepared for a steep ascent.
Official guided tours are not widely advertised, and explanations on-site can be minimal. It's recommended to do some research beforehand or hire a local guide if available.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Take your time to climb the pyramid and appreciate the views. Be aware of the local dogs that often frequent the area.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid offers panoramic views of the jungle. The juxtaposition of the Mayan ruins and the colonial convent also makes for interesting shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the site. However, always be respectful of the historical structures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit