Have you been wanting to explore ancient pyramids but don’t want to travel all the way to Egypt? The Teotihuacan Pyramids in central Mexico may be your best option.
There are ancient ruins scattered throughout the world but the third largest pyramid is located in North America (source). Teotihuacan pyramids are easily accessible from the United States and Central America, which can make for a unique weekend vacation. This famous archeological site is located just 30 miles northeast of Mexico City.
About Teotihuacan Pyramids
Teotihuacán, which translates into “City of the Gods”, is believed to be one of the largest mesoamerican cities in the world. There is still so much that remains a mystery about this archeological site. UNESCO has this ancient complex listed as a World Heritage Center. If you would like to learn more about Teotihuacan, check out this quick educational video.
The most popular structures of this complex are The Pyramid of the Sun, The Pyramid of the Moon, and The Avenue of the Dead.
The Teotihuacan complex does allows visitors to climb the majority of the structures.
The Pyramid of the Sun is the largest pyramid at Teotihuacan. To get to the top, visitors must ascend the steep 248 steps. Please climb with caution! There is the option to climb part of the way up, however the views from the top give you a better perspective of the grandeur of the the complex.
The Pyramid of the Moon offers the best views, in my opinion. Because it is situated at the end of The Avenue of the Dead, you can see all of the structures located in the ancient city.
Here is a recent article about a newly discovered tunnel underneath the Pyramid of the Moon.
The Avenue of the Dead is a wide street that runs down the center of the complex.
Day Tour Options
Guided Tours
There are several day tours offered from Mexico City. If you want the ease of booking a tour, these are the most popular.
Self-guided tours
If you are a budget traveler, here are some self-guided tour options.
- Take the bus to/from Mexico City. Cost is about $5 USD each way.
- Rent a car from Mexico City and return the same day.
More than a one-day tour
If you plan on visiting between December – March, a road trip through central Mexico is an adventure you won’t forget. This itinerary includes visits to two ethical butterfly sanctuaries to witness the monarch migration.
If you have allowed two days for your visit to Teotihuacan, stay overnight.
Tips before your visit
Hours: open everyday of the year from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
To avoid crowds, visit during the week. Credit cards are accepted but keep enough cash on hand.
There are a few restaurants and souvenir shops. Paid bathrooms are only offered at the entrance.
What to bring
There is no shade, so be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, or umbrella.
Comfortable shoes are a must because there is a lot of walking and climbing involved.
Keep plenty of water on hand. If you didn’t bring any, there are shops at the entrance where you can purchase.
Camera or camera phone to get great photos.
Parking fees are $2.50 USD/car.
Admission fees are $4.00 USD/per adult. Kids 12 and under are free. There is an additional fee if you want a tour guide, but it is not necessary.
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