Kohunlich & Dzibanche Ruins Tour Costa Maya's best kept secret!

Kohunlich & Dzibanche Ruins Tour Summary

Experience the absolute best of the Costa Maya region's ancient wonders in one unforgettable day. Our Kohunlich and Dzibanche Ruins Tour takes you to two radically different yet equally magnificent archaeological sites: the enigmatic stucco masks of Kohunlich and the monumental, pyramid-temples of Dzibanche.

First, we embark on an exclusive journey to the enigmatic city of Kohunlich, nestled deep within the lush jungle. Led by our expert guides, you'll delve into its rich history, culminating in a visit to the famous Temple of the Masks. Marvel at the iconic, intricate carvings and stunning stucco masks—a powerful artistic and historical treasure unique to this site. You'll also explore the structures of The Acropolis and wander through the The Lost World.

Next, discover the breathtaking grandeur of Dzibanche, the undisputed crown jewel of Maya ruins near Costa Maya. We'll escape the crowds and explore a sophisticated ancient city known for its masterful urban planning. What truly sets this site apart is the unique opportunity to still climb to the top of the monumental temples, a privilege no longer granted at most major sites. From the summit, you'll gain unparalleled views and an unrivaled sense of connection to the past.

Unlike crowded excursions, our Kohunlich & Dzibanche is tailored for the discerning traveler and is capped at 10 guests. This guarantee of a small group ensures you receive personalized attention and a deeply immersive adventure.

Kohunlich & Dzibanche Ruins Tour Overview

Rates (Through December 31st, 2025)

Due to the nature, travel times and focus of this experience, we regret infants are not permitted on this tour.

Tour Meeting Point

Your tour will depart from The Native Choice Kiosk, located just a few easy steps outside the main port gate. Your tour confirmation email includes easy-to-follow directions, a detailed map, and local contact numbers to ensure a stress-free start to your day.

Kohunlich & Dzibanche Ruins Tour Itinerary

Tour Duration

7.5 hours

Tour Departure Times & Availability

We offer daily departures except on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. For cruise ship guests, we offer only one departure, usually one hour after your ship docks.

Booking and Payment Policy

Deposit

To secure your spot on this popular tour, a minimum deposit of $15.00 USD per person is required. You also have the option to pay the full balance at the time of booking, if you prefer.

Worry-Free Guarantee

All payments (deposits or full amounts) are fully refundable if your cruise ship is unable to dock in Costa Maya for any reason. Your booking is completely safe with us.

Cancellation & No-Show Policy

Cancellations

You may cancel your reservation up to 2 days before your scheduled tour to avoid a $15.00 USD per person cancellation fee.

No-Shows

No-Shows are subject to a $15.00 USD per person fee.

Know Before You Go

Physical Activity Level

This tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness as it includes walking on uneven, sometimes slippery terrain and the optional but potentially strenuous climbing of ancient structures. Participants should be in good general health and comfortable with a day of outdoor activity. Please note that climbing the temples is optional, but it involves steep ascents and may not be suitable for those with mobility concerns or a significant fear of heights.

Operating Conditions

To ensure you don't miss out, our tour operates rain or shine. Check the day's forecast and prepare accordingly. Bring essentials like a hat and sunscreen for sun or a light jacket and water-resistant shoes for rain.

Important Notes & Site Rules

• To fully enjoy this immersive tour, your cruise ship must remain in port for at least 10 hours.
• This tour involves walking at a fast pace on uneven terrain and is not suitable for individuals with limited mobility or wheelchair users.
• This tour is better appreciated by children ages 10 years old and older. Due to the extended travel time, this tour is not suitable for children under the age of 5.
• Tripods and drones are strictly prohibited inside the archaeological sites.

Recommendations for Your Tour

• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• To protect yourself from the sun, especially during the summer months, bring a hat and sunscreen.
• Bring extra cash for any shopping or small purchases, as cards are not accepted outside the port area.

Kohunlich & Dzibanche Ruins Tour Additional Details

Your tour departs from The Native Choice Kiosk, located just steps from the port entrance. Detailed, stress-free directions are included in your confirmation.

This combo tour includes visites to two Maya ruins sites, you'll explore Kohunlich first, then travel for approximately 30 minutes to Dzibanche.

At Kohunlich

The journey from Costa Maya to Kohunlich takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. Please note that recent road construction may cause some minor discomfort during a short stretch of the journey. Additionally, the final 9 kilometers of the road can be narrow and potentially bumpy during the rainy season.

Kohunlich is a fascinating Mayan site with a history that stretches back to the Pre-Classic period (200 BC), though its most significant development came during the Early Classic period (250–600 AD). During this golden age, the city thrived as a vital regional trade hub, connecting the Yucatán Peninsula with the Petén region of Guatemala and fostering significant cultural and economic exchange. However, its prosperity began to fade in the Late Classic period, eventually leading to the city's abandonment around 1100 AD.

At Dzibanche

Dzibanche is renowned as the earliest capital of the mighty Kaan, or Snake, dynasty, which became one of the Maya world's most dominant powers. First settled as early as 200 B.C., the city rose to prominence during the Early Classic period (250–600 A.D.), establishing the dynasty's influence and engaging in conflicts with rival cities like Tikal. Architecturally, the site features impressive Petén-style structures, including the Temple of the Captives with its hieroglyphic stairway depicting bound figures, and recently uncovered stucco reliefs on a ball court that offer new insights into the Kaan's mythological beliefs. Although Dzibanche's power waned after the Kaan dynasty relocated its seat to Calakmul around the end of the 6th century, it was not immediately abandoned, remaining active long enough to produce one of the last dated hieroglyphic texts in the Maya world, dating to 909 A.D.

While children are welcome, please note that the tour involves extensive walking and climbing. Parents are encouraged to assess their child's ability to participate in such activities.

Many of the site's structures offer opportunities for climbing, allowing you to experience the ancient Maya world from a unique perspective.

This is a comprehensive tour that includes refreshments for your convenience. If time allows, we may also make a brief stop in Bacalar at Holly Margarita Lake Shore Club, allowing you to freshen up, use restroom facilities, and enjoy a quick snack.