Cobá is one of the oldest Mayan settlements on the Yucatan peninsula. Although it is believed to have been settled about a thousand years earlier, Cobá was a thriving city from 600 CE to about 900 CE when it was mysteriously abandoned. While it is now located in tropical jungle among five lagoons, Cobá’s towering pyramids and extensive sacbeob (Mayan roads constructed of stone) suggest that this was a major city. There are about 40 sacbeob which converge in Cobá. One has been traced a distance of 60 miles (or 100 km). Each sacbeob was constructed with stones to a height of one to two meters and then covered with white mortar. Their purpose isn’t fully known because at the time of Cobá’s occupation, around 600 AD, there was no wheeled transportation or horses. It is thought that these roads were used for religious processions or pilgrimages.

Approximately 2 km from the entrance is Nohoch Mul, the largest pyramid stands 42 meters high, with 120 steps, and can be climbed to absorb the spectacular view of the surrounding jungle and ruins. This is the only pyramid in the Yucatan that you can still climb. Nohoch Mul in Cobá is taller than El Castillo in Chichén-Itzá. Many areas of the steps are crumbling but there is a safe area where you can climb to the top rather easily. Coming down is more difficult but you can stop to rest and admire the jungle around you. There are quite a few stone carvings protected under palapa roofs and a carving of the Descending God at the entrance of the temple which crowns the pyramid.

Cobá is not as crowded as Chichén-Itzá or Tulúm so if you are really interested in the history behind the ruins and exploring them without the crowds, Cobá is a wonderful site to see. While you walk down the paths, note that the hills you see all around the Cobá archeological site are more unexcavated buildings covered with dirt and jungle growth. Archaeologists estimate that Cobá contains about 6500 structures, of which just a few have been excavated and restored. Excavation is underway to uncover more of the mysteries of Cobá. Also look carefully for the many tropical plants such as tall hardwood trees, ferns, palm trees, ceiba trees, or the huge banyan trees. Also watch for the huge lines of hunter ants that cross the walkways and continue into the jungle.

Cobá, located 50 km northwest of Tulúm, offers a chance to explore both excavated and un-excavated ruins set deep in the tropical jungles. The Cobá tour lasts a full-day and involves a lot of walking. Bring comfortable walking shoes for the two hour tour exploring Cobá Mosquito repellent and sun block and maybe an umbrella are recommended. Toilet facilities by the entrance are basic but clean. Bring some pesos to give to the women and girls who work to keep the washrooms clean.

Don’t forget your camera! The bus takes you through the countryside where the Mayan people live almost untouched by outsiders. During the bus ride, you should watch for wildlife in the jungle, such as iguanas, monkeys, and parrots and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Included with the Cobá Mexico Vacations Tour:

• Round trip transportation on an air-conditioned bus
• Bilingual tour guide
• Entrance fee to Cobá archaeological site

Not Included with the Cobá Mexico Vacations Tour:

• Beverages and meals
• Federal admission fee of approximately $4.00 if you plan to bring a video camera into the Cobá ruins site
• Shopping for souvenirs at the market outside of Cobá ruins

What to Bring on the Cobá Mexico Vacations Tour:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat
• Jacket
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito Repellant
• Camera
• Money for souvenirs, beverages and meals

Departures:

• Departs Thursdays

Items of Note:

• Tours are subject to availability so book early.
• Details such as departure days and times are subject to change without notice.
• Detailed tour information is available at the Palace Resorts/Chaza Travel & Tours desk at your hotel. Reservations are made at the hotel with your Chaza Travel tour representatives.
• Guests are required to make tour reservations at the Chaza Travel desk in advance, but not prior to your arrival at the hotel. It is advised that you make tour bookings shortly after you arrive.

Details are subject to change without notice.