Hotels near Cobá

Cobá was a major Maya city between around 600 and 900 AD, built between two lakes and linked to other cities by raised white roads called sacbeob, one running about 100 km west to Yaxuná. Its ruins are spread through the jungle, and the Nohoch Mul pyramid, at about 42 metres, is one of the tallest in the Yucatán. Climbing it is no longer permitted, but the view from its base is still striking.

The groups of ruins are several kilometres apart, so most visitors rent a bicycle or hire a pedal taxi at the entrance. The forest canopy keeps the paths shaded, and December's cooler, drier air makes it one of the most comfortable months to visit. Entry costs a modest fee, and the site is far quieter than Chichen Itza.

Pro Tip: Arrive at the 08:00 opening and rent a bike straight away, then cool off at one of the small cenotes signposted a few kilometres down the road.