A trip to Mexico City isn't complete without exploring the picturesque Teotihuacan Pyramids. Here's everything to know about visiting the historical location.
By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist
Located 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, the Teotihuacan Pyramids are full of mysterious charm. While it's unclear who built the majestic structures that are still fully standing, it's estimated the pyramids were built by hand over 1000 years ago. It's also believed Teotihuacan, known as "place where gods are born," was one largest cities in the Western Hemisphere and home to various cultures including the Aztec, Maya, Mixtec, and Zapotec.
The breathtaking Teotihuacan Pyramids are considered to be one of world’s most visually stunning archaeological sites and contains the largest existing ancient pyramid in North America. It's one of the must see places in Mexico so if you plan on visiting, here's a few helpful tips.
Tourists climbing the Teotihuacan Pyramids
GETTING THERE
The Teotihuacan Pyramids are about an hour away from Mexico City. It's a quick easy day trip and there's a few ways to get there.
- Drive. If you rent a car driving can seem daunting. There's major gridlock traffic and not all drivers abide by the rules. Many don't stop at stop signs and won't hesitate to cut you off. In addition, there's no proper way to merge onto certain roads so it's a free for all and all the signs are in Spanish. That said, it's freeing to be on your own schedule and it's really inexpensive to rent a car. Parking at the Teotihuacan Pyramids is just 45 pesos.
***There are several toll roads along the way that take cash, IAVE card, or Tag Telvia, which is sold at Walmart stores across Mexico. Tell road fees are usually around 3 pesos. You can pay with U.S. dollars, but you can't mix currently. Either you pay all in pesos or all in dollars. Signs for toll roads in Spanish is cuota.
2. Public Transportation. Buses run every 30 minutes to the site. You can catch one at two different locations. Terminal del Norte (outside Autobuses del Norte Metro station, Line 5) or from outside the 2 Potrero Metro station (Line 3). A one-way ticket will cost 50 pesos as of April 2019.
3. Group Tours. It's not difficult to find a tour that either picks you up from your hotel or you meet in a designated area. Half or full day tours are always available with a guide.
4. Uber. The ride share service is much cheaper than it is in the states and is a good alternative to driving.
THINGS TO DO
There's no shortage of spectacular sights at the Teotihuacan Pyramids. It's a full day of adventure so plan accordingly.
Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure in Teotihuacan, and the third largest pyramid in the world. It's believed to have been built in 100 CE.
Pyramid of the Moon is the second largest pyramid in Teotihuacan. According to Wikipedia the "platform atop the pyramid was used to conduct ceremonies in honor of the Great Goddess of Teotihuacan, the goddess of water, fertility, the earth, and even creation itself. This platform and the sculpture found at the pyramid's bottom are thus dedicated to The Great Goddess."
Temple of the Feathered Serpent is the third largest pyramid in Teotihuacan and takes its name from the detailed carved serpent heads on the eastern side of the structure.
Palace of Quetzlpapalotl has ornately carved pillars and colorful murals centered around a stunning courtyard.
Avenue of the Dead – The main long path between the pyramids in Teotihuacán. Along the way you'll see plenty of ruins of smaller pyramids to climb.
On-site museum – There’s a museum at the entrance for those who want to learn more about the history of the Teotihuacan Pyramids.
VENDORS
As you make your way to the entrance, there is a row filled with booths on both sides selling everything from hats, t-shirts, magnets, sunscreen, water and other trinkets. This is a good place to pick up things like a hat or sunscreen because you can't buy those items inside. The vendors near the pyramids sell scarfs, blankets, carved statues, etc. The sellers aren't too aggressive. Sure, they may call out to you as you walk by, but that's the extent of it. The prices are fair and mostly very inexpensive so bargaining isn't necessary usually.
PARKING
If you drive there's plenty of parking for 40 pesos. But beware of scams. People on motorcycles will offer you a free tour of the area before entering the Teotihuacan Pyramids. They ask you to follow them down a bumpy dirt road where you're taken to a gift shop. There's no tour, they really just want you to buy things and they expect a tip.
EATING
There's a plethora of restaurants surrounding the Teotihuacan Pyramids. You have a lot of dining options ranging from casual and inexpensive to more upscale. La Gruta is the iconic cave restaurant that's less than a 10 minute drive away and worth experiencing at least once. It's recommended to make a reservation on weekends and evenings. In addition, it's easy to find vegan gluten free choices and there are snacks available throughout the Teotihuacan Pyramids.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
The hours are 9am-5pm every day and it's better to arrive as early. It gets incredibly hot so you want to avoid the crowds. Plus, the Teotihuacan Pyramids is an all day excursion so you want as much time there as possible.
You can climb the pyramids but they are steep. There is a rope covered in plastic you can hold as you make your way to the top. It's easier to walk down sidestepping it because you won't lose your balance as easily.
Take your time going up, but be mindful of other guests. Don't stop on the stairs for photo opps if there's people behind you.
Wear comfortable sneakers. You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Also opt for light workout pants or jeans. It gets extremely hot and trekking to the top of the pyramids is no easy task for most so go for comfort.
Tickets are 75 pesos, but on Sundays the entrance is free to Mexican residents. So avoid this day since it will be more crowded than normal. You buy tickets at the entrance.
You can exit the site and return on the same day.
If you hire a guide on location, make sure they are a licensed guide. You can find them by the entrance.
There are restrooms.
THINGS TO BRING
Water, hat, sunscreen, camera, backpack, light jacket for the evening sunglasses and an external battery to charge your phone.