WHERE TO STAY IN CALAKMUL
We’ve covered all the accommodation options for a trip to Calakmul, one the biggest lost cities of the ancient Mayan civilisation, deep in heart of mexico.
Compare the many many Mayan sites scattered across the south of Mexico; some are like Chichen Itza, large, famous and easy to get to. Others, like the Calakmul ruins require a little more…determination. Deep in the Calakmul biosphere reserve, the reasons to visit this lost city are many, it’s enormous, it has very few visitors, and features some of the largest Mayan pyramids ever built. And at the pinnacle of these pyramids, a view of continuous Mexican jungle as far as the eye can see.
Aside from the historical site that stretches across 2 square kilometres and dates from the 6th century, the biosphere is also a fascinating destination worth visiting, More than 1,200,000 hectares of jungles is home to vast numbers of birds, mammals, reptiles and endemic plant-life. In fact one third of all bird-life in Mexico live in the biosphere as well as being home to the largest population of jaguars in Mexico.
Part of the fun of visiting Calakmul is that it is entirely off the beaten track, we’ve written a little post about How on Earth you get to Calakmul
Accommodation options
We’ve pulled together a comprehensive list of all the best options for your trip to Calakmul and the surrounding area. From top rated to budget camping, with every option between.
Have a look at the below to work out whats best for you.
Top-End
Chicanna Ecovillage Resort is located an 11 minute drive from Xpujil, closer to the ruins and actually inside the biosphere reserve. It has an outdoor pool, wifi & food onsite. You would need to get a taxi from Xpujil if that is where you are arriving into. Alternatively if you have rented a car - you’re good to go.
Casa Maya is 7 minutes from the centre of Xpujil. Large, clean rooms, breakfast is included & you have the option of using the free bikes they keep for guests (we don’t recommend you try and cycle to Calakmul…). You are quite isolated but if you can arrange a tour to collect you from here, this is probably the nicest option locally.
Set outside of the town in a beautiful location, this hotel has 7 separate houses on offer. It is in a peaceful location, has bikes available to rent, and has a delicious daily breakfast of eggs, fresh fruit and coffee.
Mid-Range
A large hotel situated in Zoh Laguna which has private bungalows as well as dorm rooms. There is an on-site restaurant and a pool.
Cabanas Chaac Calakmul offer private double cabins. Basic & clean in the centre of Xpujil. Free wifi, fans + parking available if you need it. One of the guys we met that morning stayed here and recommended it.
Large hotel in Xpujil with clean rooms, a green courtyard and a pool.
BUDGET
Basic, but importantly, CLEAN motel style guest-house around half a km from the centre of Xpujil. It’s not luxury but it’s modern, bright & comfortable.
Convenient location near the bus station with clean and quiet rooms, and a friendly owner. Good Value
Good value rooms in Xpujil all with private bathrooms and aircon. Located near the bus station.
camping
Remote, deep in the jungle camping area, with shared shower and toilets, delivering a memorable experience!
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