Jump to:
The ruins of Uxmal are situated to the south of Mérida. Uxmal was an important city; probably built around 700 AD, although inhabitants are thought to have lived in the area as far back as 800 BC — nearly 1,000 years before the city was built.
It is a mystery as to why a settlement was ever made here: there are no rivers or local sources of water, and no evidence that they once existed. One of the features of Uxmal are the Mayan chultunes — or cisterns — which held water for the population to live from. Chaac, the rain god, features prominently in much of the architecture's carvings — no doubt an important source of water for these people.
Exploring Uxmal
Uxmal is a delightful archaeological site to experience, the ancient city is a half-square-mile set in rich green fertile land which provides a perfect setting for some of the most magnificent ancient pyramids, buildings and temples of the ancient world. You can sense the history here as you walk around and gaze at the stunning architecture and majestic layout of this ancient city.
The restored buildings include the curved Piramide del Adivino (Magician's Pyramid) which stands majestically above the other buildings, the palace façade of El Palomar (Dovecote) that is illuminated at the spring Equinox and the Cuadrangulo de las Monjas which if you climb up its central steps you will see the spectacular views of the complex.
who's been there
-
617-223-4521617-223-4970
- Make an inquiry
Suggested itinerary featuring Uxmal
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Uxmal, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Uxmal
- °²¹²úá³ó 12 miles away
- ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹ 44 miles away
- Chichén Itzá 81 miles away
- Yucatán Peninsula 83 miles away
- °ä´Ç²úá 133 miles away
- Tulum 152 miles away
- Playa del Carmen 176 miles away
- The Mayan Riviera 176 miles away
- Isla Holbox 184 miles away
- Cancun 198 miles away
- Isla Mujeres 206 miles away
- Palenque 245 miles away
- Yaxchilan 252 miles away
- Bonampak 267 miles away
Photos of Uxmal
Our expert guides to exploring Uxmal
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Uxmal, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Uxmal at its best.
-
A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá
A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá
An ancient Mayan capital and the most famous of all the archaeological sites on the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichén Itzá is not to be missed on a trip to Mexico.
Read this guide -
Family vacations in Mexico Family vacations in Mexico
Family vacations in Mexico
Audley travel specialist Anna shares her tips for where to go and what to do on a Mexico family vacation. Focusing on the Yucatán Peninsula, she explains how you can combine beach time with wildlife watching and visiting ancient ruins.
Read this guide -
What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide
What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide
Mexico’s character is many-sided. From cosmopolitan colonial cities and vibrant markets to mountain wilderness, sleepy Caribbean islands, vast cacti-covered deserts and a wealth of intriguing ancient ruins, specialist Carolyn shares her highlights.
Read this guide