2008-07-23: This page added 23 Jul 2008.
 

Archaeological Attractions

There are several interesting archaeological sites easily accessible from Chetumal. We will begin with one and will be adding more.

Kohunlich

Kohunlich is an impressive Maya archaeological site located 65 km (40.4 miles) west of Chetumal. The structures date from the Early Classic period, from about 250 to 600 AD. Only a few have been excavated, and the area, which fortunately is not over-run with tourists, covers about 21 acres. It is surrounded by dense sub-tropical forests, and tropical wildlife and exotic birds frequent the area.

The Pyramid of the Masks is the best known structure at Kohunlich, and was built around 500 AD. Pictures of the mask of all sizes adorn offices and homes of the Chetumal area.

Interestingly, the name Kohunlich is not a Maya name, but is derived from the English, Cohune Ridge.

Click here for one traveler's account of his experience with this site, which includes details about the location and the visit (English only).

If you are interested in staying in an exotic location, there is a resort nearby, called the The Explorean Kohunlich. They have a very colorful website, only in Spanish, if you do not mind waiting for videos to download every time you click on a page.

Dzibanche - Kinichna - Oxtankah

These are the names of three other Maya sites located near Chetumal. Until we are able to get more information first hand, there is a little information about them here.