Better late than never! The Maya ruins of Ixchkabel, which were scheduled to open for the public in 2017, will finally be available to travellers visiting Riviera Maya. Nestled deep in the jungles of Quintana Roo, the ancient Maya city of Ichkabal is set to captivate explorers and history enthusiasts alike as it prepares to open its doors to the public for the first time. With its towering pyramids, intricate structures, and rich history, Ichkabal is a window into the dawn of Maya civilization — and a site not to be missed for travelers to the Costa Maya.
A Lost City Rediscovered
Located just 43 kilometers from the stunning blue waters of Bacalar, Ichkabal has remained a mystery since its discovery in 1995. Covering a vast 30 square kilometers, this ancient city is larger than the famed Chichén Itzá and features several towering pyramids that surpass the Temple of Kukulcán in scale. Unlike the easily accessible Chichén Itzá, Ichkabal is tucked away in the heart of the jungle, offering adventurers a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Visitors will step back in time, discovering buildings that date back to as early as 350 B.C. and marvel at the city's sophisticated hydraulic systems, including cisterns used to store water and corn. Ichkabal was more than a city; it was a thriving political and cultural hub that played a crucial role in shaping the early Maya civilization.
Accessing Ichkabal: The Journey Begins
While Ichkabal's remote location adds to its allure, reaching this ancient wonder will take some planning. The site is about a 1-hour and 45-minute drive from Bacalar, with jungle roads that enhance the sense of adventure. For those coming from Chetumal, the drive will take approximately two and a half hours. However, access to Ichkabal is expected to improve with the completion of the Maya Train, which will connect northern resort towns like Cancún and Tulum to Bacalar and Chetumal. The new stations will offer tourists easier access to this hidden treasure.
A New Era of Exploration in the Maya World
As Mexico’s Program for the Improvement of Archaeological Zones (Promeza) moves forward with the restoration and preservation of Ichkabal, excitement is building for its official opening, tentatively scheduled for mid-September. Researchers and archaeologists have been hard at work ensuring that the site is ready to welcome visitors, promising an experience that will rival the grandeur of Chichén Itzá.
For travelers seeking a deeper connection with the ancient Maya world, Ichkabal offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the oldest, most enigmatic cities in Mexico. Be among the first to walk its ancient paths and climb its towering pyramids, all while surrounded by the breathtaking jungle that has guarded its secrets for centuries.
Why Ichkabal is the Next Big Thing
Ichkabal's emergence as a new tourist destination is set to shake up the archaeological tourism scene in Mexico. While Chichén Itzá continues to attract millions of visitors annually, Ichkabal is poised to offer a more intimate, immersive experience. Its less-traveled roads and towering ruins create an atmosphere of discovery that can’t be matched by more commercialized sites.
With the upcoming completion of the Maya Train and increased accessibility from Mahahual, Bacalar, and Chetumal, Ichkabal is sure to become a highlight on every traveler’s itinerary to the Yucatán Peninsula. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventurer, or simply someone who appreciates the awe-inspiring beauty of ancient civilizations, Ichkabal will not disappoint.
As you plan your next vacation to the Riviera Maya, contact us on how to set aside time to visit Ichkabal. Step into history, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Maya civilization, and discover the magic of one of Mexico’s most impressive archaeological finds.