Mayan Sites in Central America

During our trips in Latin America we had the opportunity to visit some of the most emblematic Mayan sites.

Tikal, Guatemala

Our first stop in Mexico was Chichen Itza, one of the largest Mayan cities. This archeological site is impressive. The Castillo Temple is at the center of it. 

Architecture styles are very diverse. The Skull Platform is one of my favorite styles. 

Chicen Itza, Mexico

Chicen Itza, Mexico

As I said elsewhere, Tulum Ruins are very different from the other sites that we visited because they're situated in a cliff along the coast. The sea and sand colors create a unique backdrop. Its very well preserved. The Templo Dios del Vento is my favorite. It's right on top of the sea. 

There are iguanas everywhere.

You'll need a good sunscreen and a hat.

Tulum, Mexico

Iguana

Palenque is smaller than Chichen Itza. But supposedly it contains some of the finest sculpture and carvings. 

Its not so well preserved like Chichen Itza or Tulum. It looks like absorbed by the jungle. Some of the structures are partially destroyed. 

Palenque, Mexico

Palenque, Mexico

When we went to Tikal, in Guatemala, gang-related violence was not as prevalent in Peten. We felt safe enough to visit the ruins by ourselves without a guide and carrying our backpacks. The heavy rain and muddy path were the only challenges that we had to face along with our inappropriate footwear (Crocs). 

Tikal is also very unique in the sense that the ruins lie among the tropical rainforest. Its one of the largest Mayan sites.

The temples in the main plaza are very tall, very different from the ones that we saw in the other ruins, the tallest measures 70 metres. 

During our visit we saw monkeys and other exotic specimens. 

Tikal, Guatemala

Tikal, Guatemala

In Copan, Honduras, the principal challenge is the temperature. It's very hot and humid. Even in the early morning. 

The ruins are not very well - preserved. One of the most spectacular things about this site is the museum. Inside there is a reconstruction of the Rosalia Temple. You enter through a long and dark tunnel with a snake's shape and then you'll see a large red construction. The dramatic tunnel meant to mimic the experience archaeologists had while exploring the site.

Copan, Honduras

Copan, Honduras