Welcome to the Coba Ruins Tour
Discover the Coba Ruins, among the most intact ancient Mayan sites in existence! As you explore with the help of this narrated, self-guided walking tour, you’ll unearth the history of this fascinating place, from the remnants of ancient artwork to the court where Mayans once played a ritualistic ball game and beyond.
Preview the Tour
Your Coba Ruins tour begins at the site’s entrance. As you enter and get your first look around, you’ll hear the story of how the astonishingly advanced Mayan civilization rose and fell. You’ll also hear some little-known facts about the unique trees found in these ruins and the importance they once held in Mayan society.
The first major landmark you’ll see is a ball court. Unlike similar courts found at other sites, this one was likely used to depict a struggle between dark and light for ceremonial purposes. Pretty high stakes for a ball game!
It’ll be hard to miss the next stop: the imposing La Iglesia Pyramid. A close look will reveal some residue from the paint which once coated this entire pyramid. A little farther down the path is the Crossroads Pyramid, which presents an unexpected twist on the usual Mayan architectural style.
You’ll notice a surprisingly-intact network of ancient roads crisscrossing the site as you walk. These white stone roads were actually hugely crucial to Mayan cities and had a lot to say about life over a thousand years ago.
You’ll also encounter the Stelae—a type of large, rectangular stone with detailed designs carved into them. On your tour, you’ll uncover their meaning and why the Mayans created them in the first place.
The Pyramid of the Painted Lintel is your next major landmark. Bright colors once adorned this impressive limestone structure, and you can still find traces of those colors today.
As you pass a second ball court, you’ll learn all about the religious beliefs and practices of the ancient Mayans, as well as the infamous calendar by which they tracked the passage of years.Â
Finally, on the Coba Ruins tour, you’ll find yourself at the foot of the Nohoch Mul Pyramid, the second-largest Mayan pyramid in the entire world. Your tour concludes here.
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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 there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- 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.
What You'll See
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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.
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 by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: 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: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
