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Uxmal is a Maya city in the Puuc hills south of Mérida, regarded as one of the finest examples of Puuc architecture. It flourished in the Late Classic and Terminal Classic periods, and its buildings are known for smooth lower walls topped by intricate stone mosaics of geometric patterns, latticework and masks of the rain god Chaac. Together with nearby sites, it forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Pyramid of the Magician greets visitors near the entrance, notable for its rounded, oval base and steep sides. Behind it, the Nunnery Quadrangle encloses a courtyard bordered by four elaborately decorated buildings. A ballcourt lies along the path to a large platform supporting the Governor's Palace, whose long facade is often cited as a masterpiece of Maya design. Nearby, the House of the Turtles is decorated with carved turtles along its cornice, and the Dovecote is named for its distinctive roof comb. Near the entrance, Choco-Story presents the history of cacao in the region. In the evening, a light and sound show illuminates the facades. Smaller Puuc sites such as Kabah, Sayil and Labna lie along the nearby route.
Uxmal is less crowded than Chichén Itzá and suits travelers interested in architecture. Staying overnight nearby allows an early visit before the midday heat.
WiserMap travel guideUxmal Mexico Pyramid of the Magician and Puuc Route RuinsPlan a trip to Uxmal: the Pyramid of the Magician, Nunnery, Governor's Palace, Choco-Story, Puuc route sites, Yucatecan food and where to stay near the ruins.Read the guide
The tallest building at Uxmal, a steep pyramid about 35 metres high with unusual rounded sides, built in several stages over centuries. Legend says a dwarf magician raised it in a single night. Climbing is not allowed, but the front and rear facades are impressive from the ground.
A large courtyard surrounded by four long palaces covered in fine Puuc style stone mosaics, with lattice patterns, serpents and masks of the rain god Chaac. The Spanish named it after a convent. Walk around all four sides, since each building has different carvings worth a close look.
A long palace on a huge raised platform, often called one of the finest buildings of ancient Mesoamerica, with a frieze of thousands of carved stones forming masks and geometric patterns. It faces east toward distant sites. Visit in the late afternoon, when sunlight shows the carvings well.
A large stepped pyramid south of the Governor's Palace, partly restored, with a temple on top decorated with Chaac masks and macaw motifs. Visitors have often been allowed to climb it, though rules change. From the top there are wide views over the site and the surrounding Puuc hills.
A small, elegant building beside the Governor's Palace, named after the row of carved turtles along its upper cornice. Turtles were linked with water and rain in Maya belief. It is a good example of the simple, balanced style of the Puuc builders, so look up at the frieze.
Known as the Dovecote, this building is topped by a tall, triangular roof comb pierced with openings that reminded the Spanish of pigeon houses. It stands in a quieter part of the site west of the Great Pyramid. Fewer visitors come here, which makes it a peaceful spot for photos.
A restored court between the Nunnery and the Governor's Palace where the ancient Maya played their ritual ball game, with stone rings set high on the sloping side walls. Inscriptions date it to the early 10th century. Look for the copies of the stone rings and their carved glyphs.
An evening show held in the Nunnery Quadrangle, where colored lights illuminate the facades while a narration tells legends of the city. Headsets with translations are often available. Check the start time when you buy your ticket, and bring a light jacket and insect repellent.
A chocolate museum set in jungle gardens across the road from the ruins, explaining the history of cacao from the ancient Maya to today, with a Maya house, rescued animals and a drink of traditional hot chocolate. It is a good stop for families after visiting the archaeological site.
A Maya site about 20 km south of Uxmal, once linked to it by a raised white road. Its best known building, the Codz Poop, has a facade covered with hundreds of stone masks of the rain god Chaac. A free standing arch marks the start of the old road. It is usually much quieter than Uxmal.
A Puuc route site south of Kabah famous for its Great Palace, a three level building with columns and carved friezes. Trails lead through the forest to smaller structures and a stela. Combine it with Kabah and Labna in one day trip from Uxmal, as public transport is very limited.
A small Puuc site known for its finely carved ceremonial arch, which once linked two courtyards, along with a palace and a temple called El Mirador. The arch is one of the most photographed Maya structures in Yucatán. Arrive early to enjoy it before tour groups and heat.
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