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COBA: THE LOST CITY IN THE JUNGLE

Coba is one of the largest and least explored Maya cities in the Yucatán Peninsula. Located deep in the jungle, it is famous for its towering pyramid, Nohoch Mul, which is one of the tallest in the region and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to climb to the top.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Best Months: November to April (dry season)
Avoid: May to October (rainy season)
Time of Day: Early morning to avoid the crowds and heat.

WHAT HIGHLIGHTS IN THE REGION

NOHOCH MUL PYRAMID: A 42-meter-high pyramid that offers spectacular views of the surrounding jungle.
THE GRAND PLAZA: A vast open space where key structures and ceremonial areas are located.
THE BALL COURT: A large ballcourt used for the Mesoamerican ball game.
STELAE AND TEMPLES: Numerous monuments and temples scattered throughout the site, offering insight into the city’s history.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR TRAVELERS

Coba is a large site, so plan to spend several hours exploring.
Renting a bicycle or hiring a bike guide can help you navigate the large site more efficiently.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring insect repellent, and carry plenty of water.

HISTORY OF THE REGION

Coba was an important city from 500 AD to 1000 AD, thriving during the Late Classic period of the Maya civilization. The city’s location in the dense jungle allowed it to become a key player in the regional economy, controlling several important trade routes. Unlike other Maya cities that are more publicly known, Coba remained relatively isolated, with much of it still covered by dense vegetation, making it a hidden gem for archaeologists and travelers alike.

For travelers, understanding Coba’s history is key to appreciating the unique experience of visiting this site. Coba was part of a network of cities that maintained political and trade connections, and its monumental architecture reflects its importance in the region. The Nohoch Mul Pyramid is one of the tallest in the Yucatán Peninsula, offering spectacular views of the surrounding jungle. Today, Coba remains one of the few ancient Maya cities that visitors can explore on foot or by bicycle, providing a more adventurous and immersive experience. Its history of trade and power is reflected in the stelae and structures still visible on site, and visitors can imagine how the city once thrived as a key player in the Maya world.

Essential Information:

Comfortable Footwear: You'll likely be walking on uneven surfaces, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are essential.
Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, especially in outdoor areas. Be sure to pack sunscreen to protect your skin.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring the sites.
Hat or Sunglasses: For protection from the sun.
Camera: You’ll want to capture the amazing views, but be sure to follow any site-specific rules regarding photography.
Light Jacket or Sweater: Depending on the region, evenings can get cooler, so a light jacket may be useful.

The best times to visit the Maya sites are typically during the dry season, which is from November to April. These months offer pleasant weather and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. However, some sites are less crowded during the shoulder seasons (May and October), providing a more peaceful experience.

Our guides are hosted online, so you will need an internet connection to access them. We recommend downloading pages or sections of the guides ahead of time if you anticipate being without reliable internet access during your travels.

You can contact us by email at [email protected] or call us at +1 504-828-9734. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have and provide additional information to help with your trip planning.

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