Exploring the Sacred Ruins of Palenque, Chiapas
Discover the ancient Mayan city of Palenque, Chiapas, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with rich history, breathtaking architecture, and lush jungle surroundings.
Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning archaeological treasure nestled in the lush jungles of Chiapas, Mexico. This ancient Mayan city is renowned for its intricate architecture and rich history, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty.
A brief summary to palenque chiapas
- Palenque, Centro, Chiapas, MX
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some hiking through the jungle paths.
- Bring water and snacks, as the site can be extensive and tiring to explore.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the site's history and significance.
- Don't miss the opportunity to visit nearby waterfalls for a refreshing break after exploring.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already in the Centro area of Palenque, you can easily walk to various attractions in the vicinity. The main sites like the Palenque ruins and the local market are well-signposted. From the central park (Parque Central), head towards the southeast on Calle 16 de Septiembre. Continue straight until you reach the junction with Avenida 20 de Noviembre, then turn left. Follow the road until you see signs directing you to the ruins.
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Bicycle Rental
Another enjoyable way to explore Palenque is by renting a bicycle. There are several rental shops around the central area, particularly near the bus station. You can rent a bicycle for around 100-150 MXN per day. Once you have your bike, head towards Avenida 20 de Noviembre and follow the same route as if you were walking. Biking allows you to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.
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Public Bus
If you want to visit the archaeological site of Palenque, you can take a local bus. The buses to the ruins leave from the main bus terminal, located a short walk from the center of Palenque. The fare is approximately 20 MXN. Buses run frequently, usually every 30 minutes. Make sure to tell the driver your destination (ruinas de Palenque) to ensure you are on the right bus.
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Taxi
For a more direct route to your destination, you can opt for a taxi. Taxis are readily available throughout the central area. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey; a ride to the ruins typically costs between 80-100 MXN. Just tell the driver 'ruinas de Palenque' and they will take you there directly.
Discover more about palenque chiapas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Letras Turisticas Palenque
0.1 km
Explore the artistic soul of Chiapas at Letras Turisticas Palenque, where culture, history, and creativity come together in a captivating museum experience.
Jungle Palace
4.8 km
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Chiapas at Jungle Palace, a tranquil hotel surrounded by lush jungles and rich history.
Temple of the Cross
7.2 km
Explore the Temple of the Cross in Chiapas, Mexico—a stunning Mayan ruin rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Temple of the Sun
7.3 km
Explore the Temple of the Sun in Palenque, a breathtaking Mayan archaeological site showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Temple of the Red Queen
7.4 km
Explore the Temple of the Red Queen in Palenque, Chiapas—a stunning historical landmark steeped in Maya history and surrounded by lush jungles.
Centro Eco turístico Cascadas Welib Hå
24.6 km
Discover nature's beauty and adventure at Centro Eco turístico Cascadas Welib Há, a stunning water park in the heart of Chiapas, Mexico.
Usumacinta River
49.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Usumacinta River, a natural marvel connecting Mexico and Guatemala.
El Lacandon
69.3 km
Discover the rich heritage of the Lacandon Maya at El Lacandon, a stunning statue in Ocosingo, Chiapas, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Parque Central
0.2 km
Discover the serene charm of Parque Central, a lush park in Palenque, Chiapas, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Minivans to the waterfalls Roberto Barrios
0.5 km
Explore the stunning Roberto Barrios Waterfalls in Chiapas, a serene paradise with turquoise pools and breathtaking views, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Cabeza Maya
0.7 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Cabeza Maya in Chiapas, where history and nature intertwine for an unforgettable travel experience.
Letras Palenque
1.1 km
Discover the ancient marvels of Letras Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the splendor of the Maya civilization in Chiapas, Mexico.
Palenque
1.2 km
Discover the enchanting Mayan ruins of Palenque, where history meets nature in a breathtaking jungle setting.
Palenque's Sign
1.2 km
Explore the ancient ruins of Palenque's Sign, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Chiapas, rich in Mayan history and surrounded by lush jungles.
Chiapas Palenque
2.2 km
Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chiapas Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with history, culture, and natural beauty.
Aluxes Ecopark
3.6 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Aluxes Ecopark, an ecological haven in Palenque, Chiapas, where wildlife thrives and conservation comes alive.
Parque Nacional Palenque
4.9 km
Uncover the ancient Mayan ruins and vibrant ecosystems of Parque Nacional Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Chiapas, Mexico.
Palenque Site Museum "Alberto Ruz Lhuillier"
6.7 km
Explore the treasures of the ancient Maya at the Palenque Site Museum, a captivating journey through history in the heart of Chiapas.
Sombrillas Waterfalls
6.9 km
Explore the stunning Sombrillas Waterfalls in Chiapas, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Zona Arqueológica Palenque
7.2 km
Explore the magnificent ruins of Zona Arqueológica Palenque and immerse yourself in the wonders of the ancient Mayan civilization amid stunning natural landscapes.
The Palace
7.3 km
Explore the majestic ruins of The Palace in Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the grandeur of ancient Maya civilization.
Palenque National Park
7.3 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Palenque National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by the lush jungles of Chiapas, Mexico.
Temple of the Inscriptions
7.4 km
Explore the Temple of the Inscriptions in Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the architectural brilliance of the ancient Maya civilization.
Essential places to dine
Las Tinajas
0.0 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Las Tinajas in Palenque—an unforgettable dining experience filled with local flavors.
Restaurant Aluxes
0.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican grilled cuisine at Restaurant Aluxes in the heart of Palenque's vibrant Centro district.
La Papita Vintage Palenque
0.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine in a vintage setting at La Papita Vintage Palenque, where every meal tells a story.
Restaurante Maya
0.2 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante Maya in Palenque - where tradition meets taste in every delicious bite.
Restaurant La Escondida
0.4 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at Restaurant La Escondida in San Juan, Palenque—where every dish tells a story.
Casa Antoliana
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Casa Antoliana in Palenque—where traditional cuisine meets modern dining.
Restaurante Maya Cañada
0.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine at Restaurante Maya Cañada in Palenque – a must-visit culinary destination.
LA SELVA RESTAURANTE
0.8 km
Discover La Selva Restaurante in Palenque: A family-friendly buffet offering authentic Mexican flavors amidst vibrant Chiapas culture.
Restaurante Bambú
1.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Restaurante Bambú in Palenque - where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions.
Monte Verde Trattoria Pizzeria
2.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Monte Verde Trattoria Pizzeria near Palenque's stunning ruins.
Restaurante Don Manuel
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Chiapas at Restaurante Don Manuel - a buffet paradise for every food lover.
Bajlum
3.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Bajlum in Palenque—where every dish tells a story and every sip is an adventure.
La Chiapaneca
4.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican breakfast delights at La Chiapaneca in Palenque, where every dish tells a story of rich culinary traditions.
Chan-Kah Resort Village
4.2 km
Experience relaxation and adventure at Chan-Kah Resort Village – your gateway to Chiapas' natural beauty and rich history.
El Panchan
4.8 km
Discover the flavors of Mexico at El Panchan, where vibrant cuisine meets cultural charm in the heart of Palenque.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lovit
0.0 km
Explore Lovit in Palenque, your go-to gift shop for unique Chiapas souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture local culture.
Jade SHOPPING
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Chiapas through unique clothing at Jade SHOPPING in Palenque, a destination for authentic local fashion.
Julio César Boutique
0.0 km
Shop at Julio César Boutique for unique clothing that celebrates the culture of Chiapas, offering a blend of style and traditional craftsmanship.
Victorinox
0.1 km
Discover Victorinox in Palenque: Where Swiss Quality Meets Adventure in Every Purchase.
ROSSY BOUTIQUE- jade SHOPPING
0.1 km
Discover exquisite jade and authentic artisan crafts at Rossy Boutique in the heart of Palenque, Chiapas – a treasure for every traveler.
Huellas de Chiapas
0.2 km
Explore Huellas de Chiapas, a vibrant shopping mall in Palenque offering local crafts, dining, and cultural experiences.
D'ROSSY NOVEDADES Y REGALOS
0.3 km
Explore D'ROSSY NOVEDADES Y REGALOS for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the rich culture of Chiapas, perfect for every traveler.
Yayis Boutique
0.3 km
Discover unique fashion at Yayis Boutique in Palenque - a charming store offering local styles and accessories for every traveler.
GLOSS YM Boutique
0.4 km
Explore GLOSS YM Boutique in Palenque for unique clothing that reflects the vibrant culture of Chiapas and enhances your travel experience.
Boutique Sexi Or
0.9 km
Explore Boutique Sexi Or in Palenque for stylish clothing that blends modern fashion with local Chiapas culture.
Michis Peluditos de Palenque
1.4 km
Explore the whimsical charm of Michis Peluditos de Palenque, a novelty store filled with unique gifts and local handicrafts in the heart of Chiapas.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Taberna
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Palenque at La Taberna, where local culture meets exciting cocktails and live music.
Michaledas la palenk-na
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Michaledas la palenk-na, Palenque's must-visit bar for tourists.
Bar ¨El Mirador¨
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant local culture and refreshing drinks at Bar El Mirador, a must-visit spot in the heart of Palenque, Chiapas.
Bar Tentacion
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Palenque at Bar Tentacion, where refreshing cocktails and local culture create unforgettable evenings.
Bar La Botana
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar La Botana in San Jose, Palenque, where local culture meets friendly atmosphere and refreshing drinks.
BAR DE CHENDO
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Palenque at Bar de Chendo, where local flavors and friendly vibes await you.
Bar La Matraca
0.3 km
Discover the lively spirit of Bar La Matraca in Palenque, where local nightlife meets vibrant culture in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar La Oficina
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of Bar La Oficina in Palenque, Chiapas – a local bar offering refreshing drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Fuego ámbar
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Fuego Ámbar in Palenque, where eclectic decor meets expertly crafted cocktails for an unforgettable evening.
Hotel Maya Tulipanes Palenque
0.7 km
Discover the beauty of Palenque while enjoying a tranquil stay at Hotel Maya Tulipanes, your home away from home in Chiapas.
Bakano Sport Bar
0.8 km
Discover the lively Bakano Sport Bar in Palenque, where delicious food, drinks, and sports create the ultimate social atmosphere for tourists.
Tlatoani Restaurante & Jungle Bar
6.6 km
Experience the essence of Chiapas at Tlatoani Restaurante & Jungle Bar, where local flavors meet the beauty of the jungle.