4 / 5 - 2 reviews
How to get there
90 minutes from Playa del Carmen
When to go
All year round
Minimum stay
Half a day
Coba (Mexico)
©
Dennis Jarvis.
Practical information about Coba
Reviews of Coba
Coba is a major archaeological site left behind by the Mayan civilisation. Like Chichen Itza, it is located on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, and its history is just as mysterious as the latter site. Coba is, however, a much wilder place.
My suggestion:
The site itself is very vast. Some opt to navigate the little paths cut through the rainforest on foot. But beware: it's a very long walk! Others employ the services of a porter, and yet others choose to hire a bicycle. I recommend the latter of these options.
Summary:
To the same extent that Chichen Itza is clean, uncluttered, well preserved and linear, with each section clearly delimited, so Coba is wild and untouched by man. Its history, however, is all the more revealing for it. Here again, get a guide to accompany you if you can, as this very large site is simply overflowing with secrets. There are dozens of ruins, temples and pyramids to see as you walk along the path around the site, completely surrounded by the forest. They suddenly loom out of nowhere, amidst the lush vegetation. It's truly wonderful. You feel as if you're at the end of the world, completely removed from the ordinary and everyday. And then the large, main pyramid, Nohoch Mul, comes into sight. Though its steep sides are almost in ruins, it still presents a striking spectacle, breathtaking in fact. Though nature has undeniably reclaimed the structure, this only adds to its charm, and the very sight of this pyramid simply leaves you speechless.
©
Virginie Bigeni
One of the most important Mayan archaeological sites in Yucatan, on the north of the peninsula, surrounded by luxuriant vegetation.
My suggestion:
The area is immense but there is plenty of shade, although it is very hot. You can also rent a bike to get to the big pyramid, 2 km from the entrance, which is an unusual way to visit!
Summary:
The ancient Mayan city ofCobá was one of my favourite cultural visits in Mexico. Although there are travellers, you are unlikely to find yourself in the middle of a crowd of bobbed, croc wearing tourists, with their cameras slung round their necks, making lots of noise and bustling about, As a result it's a nice walk, especially as not all the site has been discovered yet. Nature is everywhere and you will find remains of the city just by stepping off a sheltered path. It makes you feel like a real explorer!
©
Dennis Jarvis.
162 travellers' photos
