Top 10 Pyramids in Mexico You Have to See Before You Die
This gorgeous world is full on wonders and pyramids in Mexico are one of them. On your travel itinerary list, Mexican pyramids deserves a spot high.
Once, these places were holy pyramids for ancient civilizations and each offers a complete moment to explore ancient history in depth.
Read on what you need to know about these popular pyramids, must-known facts and map.
Top 10 Pyramids in Mexico to Explore
Think Egypt has a monopoly on pyramids? Think again. Maya, Aztec, Toltec, etc. are Mexico’s ancient civilizations and pyramids we are going to discuss are must-sees for tourists to explore history, architecture, mystery, and adventure.
Before discussing the details and facts of each Mexican pyramid, take a look at Pyramids in Mexico map.
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1. El Castillo (Temple of Kukulkan), Chichen Itza
The Castillo de Kukulcán has nine-stepped platforms. Also, this pyramid in Mexico is the centerpiece of Chichén Itzá, a Maya ancient city.
The pyramid operated as a calendar and was designed on equinoxes. At the top of pyramid, there is one temple named as “Temple of Kukulcán”, visitors are not allowed to reach here.
Why Visit?
- Famous symbol of Mayan architecture.
Pro Tip
- Stay here to enjoy morning light show.
2. Coba Pyramid (Nohoch Mul), Quintana Roo
One of must-see pyramids in Mexico City having an award of second largest & massive pyramid on the Yucatán peninsula. This pyramid creates a magical and mysterious atmosphere.
Coba is basically mexico’s ancient Maya city, once had more than 50,000 inhabitants. The history of this city basically starts from two impressive pyramids.
Why Visit?
- One of the last pyramids you could climb easily.
Fun Fact
- Located deep in the jungle, bike rentals available!
3. Pyramid of the Sun, Teotihuacan
Looking for impressive & worth visiting Mexico pyramids Teotihuacan? Go to Pyramid of the Sun. This is just like a stepping giant, rising from the earth with grandeur.
The steps of this pyramid are more than 240 in number, all are steep with stone steps. The steps you climb are worth the view of Avenue of the Dead and the surrounding archaeological zone.
Height
- Approximately 65 meters (213 feet tall).
Pro Tip
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy to the fullest.
4. Pyramid of the Moon, Teotihuacan
As compared to Pyramid of the Sun, this is a smallest pyramid but more symbolic and mysterious. This built was built for rituals, appreciating the human sacrifices of past.
It is located in the heart of Teotihuacan’s ceremonial core, and from here you can enjoy view of Avenue of the Dead. After this pyramid, the city’s layout completely modeled.
Height
- Approximately 43 meters (161 feet).
Pro Tip
- Don’t miss the opportunity to click wide-angle photos at Plaza of the Moon.
5. Temple of the Inscriptions, Palenque
The Temple of the Inscriptions is more than just a pyramid, located in the lush Mayan ruins Mexico City. This pyramid is the final resting place of King Pakal the Great.
The fun fact of this pyramid is that this gets its name from long hieroglyphic inscriptions that were found inside. Currently, this reveals political histories, mythology, and the king’s divine lineage.
Height
- Around 23 meters (75 feet).
Pro Tip
- Hire a local guide for better storytelling and unique hidden facts about one of the incredible pyramids.
6. Pyramid of the Magician, Uxmal
Unlike other pyramids in Mexico, the Pyramid structure of the Magician in Uxmal is like unique oval base and gentle rounded sides. This is a UNESCO world heritage site & one of the best-preserved Mayan cities.
Between 6th & 10th centuries, this pyramid was built over 5 phases, a masterclass in Puuc architecture. According to local legends, this pyramid was built magically in one night only.
Height
- Around 35 meters (115 feet).
Pro Tip
- Visit in late afternoon and stay here for nighttime light & sound show.
7. Temple of the Feathered Serpent, Teotihuacan
The Temple of the Feathered Serpent is also known as Temple of Quetzalcoatl. This pyramid might be smaller than other pyramids but features historical and symbolic importance.
One interesting fact is that this pyramid is believed to have been a major religious and ceremonial center. The ornate stone carvings, rows of serpent heads, seashells, and jaguar imagery makes it unique.
Height
- Approximately 20 meters (66 feet).
Pro Tip
- This pyramid is often ignored by tourists so do not miss out to explore especially if you don’t like crowds.
8. Toniná Pyramid, Chiapas
Much taller than the Pyramid of the Sun and far less known as compared to Palenque or Chichen Itza. This pyramid is built into a hill, combining both architecture & history.
Toniná Pyramid is not just a simple pyramid but it’s an entire acropolis built into a hillside with seven tiers of plazas, temples, tombs, and sculptures.
Height
- Around 75 meters (246 feet).
Pro Tip
- If you want to climb on this pyramid, must bring sturdy shoes and water with yourself.
9. Monte Albán Pyramids, Oaxaca
One of the hidden Pyramids in Mexico Cancun on flat hilltop comes with beautiful panoramic views of Oaxaca Valley. For more than thousand years, this site was a political and ceremonial capital for the Zapotec civilization.
Rather than having only one pyramid, Monte Albán Pyramids is basically a collection of temples, platforms, tombs, and observatories. One standout feature? The mysterious “Danzantes”.
Elevation
- Oldestcity, not a single pyramid so this is 1,940 meters (6,365 ft) above sea level.
Pro Tip
- Don’t forget to bring hat and water as temperature on hilltop is hotter.
10. Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, Tula
Tula is just a short hour drive from either Mexico City or the colonial city of Querétaro. The Toltecs inside the pyramid created by the fall of Teotihuacán.
One of the most iconic structures here is the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl. From the above height of this pyramid, you have the best opportunity to explore the ball courts, the ceremonial plaza & the palace.
Height
- 20 meters (66 feet tall)
Pro Tip
- Avoid midday heat and do not forget to take advantage of guided tours.
Pyramids in Mexico vs. Egypt
Mexican and Egyptian pyramids differ in architectural style, purpose and construction materials. Egyptian pyramids look like tombs and Mexican pyramids serves as temples or ceremonial sites. There’s no other major difference between both. Here’s more clear difference in the form of table.
| Egyptian Pyramids | Mexican Pyramids | |
| Purpose | Built for pharaohs and other important figures. | Served as temples, places for religious ceremonies & burial sites for burial practices. |
| Construction Materials | Stone blocks, such as limestone and granite. | Stone, adobe bricks, and clay. |
| Architectural Style | Triangular sides and a pointed top. | Flat tops shape. |
| Example | The Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. | The Great Pyramid of Cholula, the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon. |
Final Words!
It has clearly confirmed that there are unlimited pyramids in Mexico that tourists can explore as historical and Mayan culture exploration.
Every pyramid has its own unique purpose, features and laid-back history. Now there’s no difficulty in exploring the best ancient pyramid because we highlighted 10 pyramids in depth with height, unique features and why you need to visit them one by one.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the pyramids in Mexico called?
● Teotihuacan pyramids
● Chichén Itzá
● Uxmal
● Aztec pyramids
2. What are Pyramids in Mexico facts?
The Mexican pyramids was built by ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans. In past, these pyramids are often used for religious centers & ceremonial purposes. Now it becomes a tourist exploration place. Some of them are considered as archaeological sites till now.
3. How many pyramids in Mexico?
There is no confirmed number or count of pyramids in Mexico as many of them are no longer exited and some may not be considered true.
4. How old are the pyramids in Mexico City?
These pyramids are almost 1,300 to 1,900 years old and some are older than this time period.
5. What makes Mexican pyramids unique?
These pyramids are more than just tombs and represents unique symbols of the civilizations that built them.
6. What is the tallest pyramid in Mexico?
The Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan is one of the tallest pyramids in Mexico with laid-back history.
7. What is the most visited pyramid in Mexico?
The most visited pyramid in Mexico is named as El Castillo pyramid, considered as one of the new seven wonders of the world.
8. Which pyramids are older, Mexico or Egypt?
Egyptian pyramids are much older than Mayan pyramids because of unique old history behind them.
