Plan your visit
Plan your visit
The ruins are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The drive from the port takes roughly an hour.
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins
Carretera Federal 307 Via Carta Mérida, Pedro Antonio Santos - Chunhuhub, Q.R.
GPS 19.0008, -88.2324
Open directionsGetting there
Getting from the cruise port to the ruins.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Book a guided shore excursion directly through your cruise line or an independent local operator outside the Costa Maya port. | 50-60 minutes each way | $50-$130 USD | The most reliable and popular option for cruisers, usually including transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a return-to-ship guarantee. |
| Taxi: Hire a licensed union taxi outside the Costa Maya cruise port gates in Mahahual. | 50-60 minutes each way | $100-$150 USD round trip | Ensure you negotiate a flat rate upfront that explicitly includes the driver waiting for 1.5 to 2 hours while you explore the ruins. |
| Car: Rent a car in Mahahual and drive inland via Highway 307. | 50-60 minutes each way | $40-$80 USD per day | Highway 307 is generally flat, well-paved, and safe, but rental car availability in the small port town can be limited, so book in advance. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best months to visit are November through April. The weather is cooler and less humid. Try to visit as early as possible to avoid peak heat and heavy midday cruise crowds.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Wear closed-toe shoes and apply strong insect repellent.
Mosquitoes are active in the dense jungle canopy.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries for your port day.
A typical half-day trip focusing strictly on the ruins.
- Depart Costa Maya
Meet your guide outside the port and board the van.
- Arrive at Chacchoben
Use the restrooms and enter the site.
- Plaza B
Explore Temple 24 and the central courtyard.
- The Gran Basamento
View Temple I and listen for howler monkeys.
- Depart ruins
Board your transport back to Mahahual.
Combine the archaeological site with a local village experience.
- Depart Port
Head inland via Highway 307.
- Guided Tour
Walk the main paths and see the ancient pyramids.
- Chacchoben Village
Visit a local family to learn about regional traditions.
- Lunch
Eat a traditional Maya meal with fresh tortillas.
- Return
Arrive back at the cruise terminal.
Practical advice for the ruins
Bring bottled water, as high humidity makes the jungle very hot. Wear lightweight cotton or linen clothing. Apply reef-safe sunscreen before you leave the port, especially if you plan to visit the beach later.
Carry some cash in Mexican Pesos or small US bills. You may want to tip your guide, buy water from roadside vendors, or pay the $5 USD video camera fee at the INAH booth.
Easiest way to do it
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins from Costa Maya
4 h 30 min 4.7 (1,688)
- Bottled water
- After the ruins, an additional 90 minutes on Mahahual beach with the facilities included (optional)
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- At the time of your check in you have a complimentary drink which can be: a beer, a soda or a shot of tequila (these only at check in) and bottles of water (unlimited).
From$58per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Are there restrooms at the ruins?
Yes, basic restroom facilities are available near the main entrance and ticket booth area.
Is the site stroller accessible?
The paths are mostly flat but unpaved. A rugged stroller can handle the main trails, but small-wheeled strollers will struggle on the uneven ground.
Can I use a drone?
No. Drones are strictly prohibited anywhere over the site unless you have prior written authorization from INAH.