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A brilliant blue morpho butterfly rests on the ground near a leaf.

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The Gran Basamento (Great Base)

The Gran Basamento is the most significant elevated complex at Chacchoben. It holds the tallest temples and ceremonial platforms on the site.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

This raised platform forms the physical and spiritual center of the excavated ruins. Most of the monumental architecture here dates to around 700 AD.

As you walk around this upper level, watch the jungle canopy for howler monkeys. Climbing the ancient structures is strictly prohibited by INAH rules, so you must observe the pyramids from the designated ground paths.

Thick strangler fig roots wrap around the trunk of a palm tree.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Temple I

15 minutes36-43 ft (12m) tall

Temple I is the tallest pyramid at Chacchoben. It rises roughly 36 to 43 feet (12 meters) above its massive platform base. The Maya built it in three stages from the Early Classic to the Late Postclassic periods.

Detailed view of the layered stone construction of a Mayan ruin.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Temple II

10 minutes

Temple II is a smaller, rectangular stepped temple facing a small altar. It features a wide staircase flanked by low stone walls. Notice the distinct architectural mix of Petén, Rio Bec, and Chenes styles represented in its construction.

A woman stands in waist-deep, clear turquoise water under a cloudy sky.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Temple of the Vessels (Las Vasijas)

10 minutes

The Temple of the Vessels is a broad ceremonial platform. The Maya used this area for religious rituals. It earned its name from the large collection of ancient incense burner fragments discovered here during excavation.

Guided Ruins Tour

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Chacchoben Mayan Ruins with Local Experience Costa Maya Excursion4 h 4.9 (243)from $80
ruins with local experiencefrom $80 on Viator
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