The name, Coba, means “murky waters”, the five lakes of the region: Coba, Macanxoc, Sacalpuc, Yaxlaguna, and Xcanh.El nombre de coba significa en maya "Aguas Turbias", aludiendo seguramente a los cinco lagos de la región: Coba, Macanxoc, Sacalpuc, Yaxlaguna, y Xcanh.

Coba Ruins - Yucatan

One of the principle attractions of Coba es Nohoch Mul, the highest pyramid en the Yucation Peninsula that measures 42 meters in height. If you climb to the top, you can see an excelent ariel view of the jungle and the surrounding ruins. There is an other pyramid, El Templo de la Iglesia (The Temple of the Church), that is the second highest in Coba. And from there you can observe a magnificent view of the lake Macanxoc one of the five lakes of Coba.

You will find many SAC-be (which are constructed Mayan roads) that go through Coba in many directions. There are 50 SAC-be that have been excavated, many measure 10 meters in width. One of them is more that 100 kilometros long! Coba was a great city, with a population of more that 100,000 in habitants in its climax, from 400 to 1100 AD. The majority of the constructions were made between the 500 and 900 AD.

The reason for the fall of the city around 1100AD is unknown, like almost all the falls of the Mayan empires, in which the majority practically abandoned the cities and moved to the depths of the jungle. By the arrival of the Spanish in 1550, it was unoccupied, presumably replaced in importance by other cities like Chichen Itza or Tulum.

Almost at the entrance of the archeological site you can find the construction known as “La Iglesia” or “The Church” which contains numerous figurines and symbols. We can also find a grouping dedicated to the ball game, in which it is possible to see the two arcs situated on each side of the inclined planes.

Because of the presence of the skulls at the base of the monument, its its assumed it had a ritual sense in this game played by the Mayans. On the road to the pyramid Nohoch Mul (big hill), ther are numerous engraved obelisks that register diverse important events of the time that was.

The place is perfect to pass the day relaxing. You can enjoy the archeological site and refreshe yourself in the two lakes. Also, if you arrive early in the morning you can observe tropical birds, butterflies and spider monkeys playing.

Walk between the recovered ruins in the jungle, breathe the humid air of the trees, step on the main plaza or climb the steep stairs of the pyramid, which brings you back to the ancient Mayan culture.

GENERAL INFORATION OF COBA
WEATHER
The weather conditions are characteristically hot and dry. The rainy season is in the summer and we recommend that you use hats (straw hats are best) to protect yourself from the sun. The temperatures fluxuate between 20ºC and 40ºC with a yearly average of 34ºC. The months between October and March make for the most comfortable days.

MONEY
The form of money used in Mexico is the Mexican Peso but in many places they accept the US Dollar. You can exchange money or travelers cheques in the airport, Money Exchange Houses (Casas de Cambio), hotels or local banks.

MEALS
You can delight yourself with local Mayan dishes or the mestizos (dishes from combined cultures), both known for their high quality of presentation and delicious flavor. La Cochinita Pibil is one of the favorites which is pork in an achiote (red spice) sauce cooked in an earthen pit. Also the Sopa de Lima (Lime Soup) that is prepared with turkey and shredded fried tortilla is very popular. Other well known plates include Chaya (Mayan spinach) Crepes, Queso Relleno (stuffed cheese) and Huevos Mutuleños (eggs prepared in the Mayan tradition), all are excellent.

HOW GET THERE
The archeological site that belonged to the ancient city of Coba are found near Tulum. You get the by Federal Highway 307 south from Cancun and taking the new way to Xcan, 47 kilometers from Tulum.

Visiting days: monday to sunday Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00pm Trip length: 3 Hours

Summertime suggestion: to use sunblock, hats and carry plenty of liquids Services: parking, tourist flea market, museum, restuarant and bathrooms