Uxmal
Puuc Maya masterpiece—more intimate than Chichén Itzá with stunning evening light show
Overview
Uxmal offers a more intimate experience than Chichén Itzá while showcasing some of the finest examples of Puuc Maya architecture. The site's Pyramid of the Magician features unique rounded corners, and the intricate stone mosaics on the Governor's Palace represent the pinnacle of Maya architectural achievement. Located 84 km (approximately 1 hour) south of Mérida, Uxmal draws fewer crowds while delivering equal or greater architectural wonder. The evening light and sound show projects Mayan stories onto the Pyramid of the Magician—a magical experience that makes an overnight stay in the area worthwhile. Tours including the show run $30-50. SUR buses depart from Mérida's ADO Centro TAME station at 9 AM for 85 pesos each way.
Highlights
Practical Information
Half day, or full day with light show
466 MXN
Foreign visitors ~$27 USD. Free on Sundays for Mexican citizens. Light show extra (included in tours $30-50).
Morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Stay for the evening light show if possible. Dry season (November-April) offers best weather.
More Day Trips Nearby
Chichén Itzá
New Wonder of the World—Maya and Toltec architectural marvel with equinox serpent shadow
Cenotes of Riviera Maya
Swim in sacred Maya sinkholes—from $6 budget gems at Puerto Morelos to world-class diving at Dos Ojos
Celestún Biosphere Reserve
Thousands of pink flamingos in protected Gulf coast estuary—peak season November-March
Progreso Beach
Mérida's closest beach—55-minute bus ride to calm Gulf waters and Mexico's longest pier
Izamal
The Yellow City—colonial Pueblo Mágico with climbable Maya pyramids and horse-drawn carriages
Homún Cenote Route
Over 20 cenotes near Mérida—cave swimming, moto-taxi tours, and the unique Cuzamá horse-cart experience