“If you listen closely, Coba tells its stories long before the audio does.”
This Coba Ruins self-guided walking tour takes you into one of the Yucatán’s most atmospheric archaeological sites. Far quieter than places like Chichén Itzá, Coba feels closer to the jungle, closer to the past, and closer to what travelers often hope to find when they search for ancient Mayan ruins, hidden history, and authentic things to do in Mexico.
As you walk, the audio guide shares the rise and fall of the Maya, the purpose behind Coba’s white stone sacbeob roads, and the cultural meaning wrapped into pyramids, stelae, and ceremonial structures. It’s a flexible, explore-at-your-pace experience that works perfectly for travelers building their own Coba itinerary.
Your first landmark is the ball court, where a ritual game once symbolized the struggle between darkness and light. A short walk brings you to La Iglesia Pyramid, where faint traces of ancient paint still cling to the stones. Nearby, the Crossroads Pyramid offers a different architectural style that hints at Coba’s long history as a regional power.
Throughout the site, you’ll see remarkably intact sacbe roads that once connected Coba to distant Mayan cities. The audio guide explains why these elevated white paths mattered so much for trade, politics, and religion.
Stelae carved with glyphs appear along the route. These stone monuments help archaeologists piece together timelines, rulers, rituals, and the meaning behind the site’s name. The Pyramid of the Painted Lintel continues that story with hints of bright pigments that once covered its façade.
As you approach a second ball court, the narrative shifts to Mayan astronomy, calendars, and the beliefs that shaped ceremonies across the Yucatán.
Your walk ends at Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid at Coba and one of the largest in the entire Maya world. Surrounded by jungle and history, this final stop brings the whole site into focus.
Typical post-tour behavior
Comparing pyramid heights, checking your photos for the stelae details you almost missed, and realizing your Coba day became the unexpected highlight of your Yucatán trip.
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Where To Start?
Starting Point Address: Coba Parking Lot, Quintana Roo Nuevo Durango – Coba 175, 77793 Q.R., Mexico
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Welcome to Coba's Mayan Ruins
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Rise & Fall
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Ancient Trees of Coba
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Ball Court
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La Iglesia Pyramid
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Crossroads Pyramid & Architecture
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Bicycle Rental
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The Ancient Streets of Coba & Mayan Civilization
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Macanxoc Lagoon
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Stelae
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Stela 1
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The Pyramid of the Painted Lintel
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Religion
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The Ball Court 2
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Calendar
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Xaibe Lookout Tower
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Stela 20 of Ruler D
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Nohoch Mul Pyramid
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Mayans Today, Cenotes, and Farewell
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The Coba Ruins are ancient Mayan archaeological sites located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.
The Coba Ruins date back to the ancient Mayan civilization and are believed to have been inhabited as early as 600 AD.
Yes, visitors are allowed to climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid at Coba, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.
The Nohoch Mul pyramid is one of the tallest Mayan pyramids in the Yucatan Peninsula and was likely used for ceremonial purposes.
The ball court at Coba was likely used for ceremonial ball games that held great cultural and religious significance for the Mayans.
Yes, visitors can still see remnants of ancient Mayan artwork, including intricate carvings and inscriptions, throughout the site.
The unique trees found in Coba were important to the Mayans for their symbolic and practical uses, such as in religious ceremonies and for their wood.
The Mayan civilization rose to great heights in terms of art, science, and culture but faced a mysterious decline, possibly due to factors like overpopulation and environmental changes.
Visitors can explore the ball court, which was likely used for rituals symbolizing the cosmic struggle between dark and light, reflecting Mayan beliefs.
Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated paths, not climb on structures, and respect the site’s historical and natural significance.
Early morning visits are recommended to enjoy a quieter and cooler experience at the Coba Ruins before the crowds arrive.
After visiting Coba Ruins, visitors can explore nearby cenotes (natural sinkholes) and other Mayan ruins in the region.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
