Cancun Hotels Kuartos Mexico Reservations made easy!: 

Archaeological Sites
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Kuartos.com on 19 October, 2007 12:22:00
 
For those in search of Archaeological Zones the Yucatan Peninsula is world
famous as the cradle of the great Maya civilization. Numerous vestiges spread
throughout the area have survived, many which have remained unexplored while
other archaeological zones are open to the public.
While in Cancun, in the hotel zone, the El Rey site is located at kilometer 18
of Kukulcan Boulevard.
It only takes one hour to visit this archaeological vestige. North of Cancun,
near Punta Sam, in a place known as Isla Blanca (though it is not an island) are
the El Meco ruins, recently opened to the public. Any taxi can take you there.
Found north of Cancun, over the avenue leading to Punta Sam, is the
archaeological zone of El Meco.
From the top of one of its pyramids-the tallest archaeological structure in the
north of the state-there is a breathtaking view of the Chacmochuc Lagoon, near
the area known as Isla Blanca (the name is misleading since it is not an
island). To get there, we suggest taking a taxi, since this site, recently open
to the public, still does not receive many visitors.
Some hotels have ancient Maya temples in their gardens that have been perfectly
conserved; their authenticity is unquestionable.
Tulúm, Coba and Xcaret are the main archaeological zones of the Riviera
Maya.
Tulum, an ancient walled city, overlooking the ocean form the top of a cliff,
is one of the most frequented ancient cities in Mexico. Aside from its very
original architecture decorated in symbols, a visit is also rewarded by splendid
views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea and a tiny beach at the foot of the cliff
where swimming is permitted. We recommend bringing a bathing suit. At the
entrance to the archaeological zone is a parking lot and craft market. Food is
not sold here. Nevertheless, the town of Tulum, less than a mile away, offers
worthy dining options, from typical Yucatecan food to fish and seafood.
At the entrance to the town of Tulum take the highway towards Coba, an ancient
city located 26 miles within the jungle. Dispersed throughout this extensive
zone are buildings, including various imposing pyramids. Aside from a few family
restaurants, the archaeological villas of Club Med and handicraft stands outside
of the zone, Coba does not offer standard tourist services.
If preparing for an extensive visit we recommend taking lightweight and
comfortable clothing, good shoes, a hat or cap, insect repellent and drinking
water. The archaeological park can be toured on foot or by bicycle (rented at
the entrance). We don¹t suggest straying off the main paths; remember that
there are many small animals, unfamiliar to most tourists, residing within the
tropical jungle. To reach Coba, sign up for a tour from your hotel or rent a
car. Tulum is the best option for dining after your visit.
The archaeological zone of Xcaret is found within the eco-archaeological park
of the same name. The archaeological vestiges are found scattered throughout the
park and the museum houses scaled models of the most important Maya cities:
Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Tulum, Coba, Palenque. Aside from the wealth of activities
that can be enjoyed here, a visit to the museum and the ancient temples are
truly worthwhile.