Guachimontones

Little is known about the Teuchitlán tradition civilization that once lived at Guachimontones. It’s believed that the main pyramid was once used as a ceremonial site, with 52 steps corresponding to the Mayan calendar. Offering picturesque views of the town of Teuchitlán, the site also has some of the largest ball courts in Mesoamerica, on which ancient games were once played.

While travelers can make their own way to the pyramids, signage is typically in Spanish. If you don’t speak Spanish, consider booking a guided tour, some of which include round-trip transport and stop at other attractions in the region.

• Guachimontones is a must-visit for archaeology and history fans.

• Steep slopes and grassy pathways make Guachimontones challenging for travelers with mobility issues.

• The exhibits at the small on-site museum are currently in Spanish only.

The Guachimontones Pyramids are accessible by bus from the Old Bus Station (Central Vieja) in Guadalajara. If you have access to a car, follow the highway between Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, turning off at Teuchitlán. Guided tours typically include hassle-free round-trip transportation.

Guadalajara is the city of eternal spring, so there’s never truly a bad time, weather-wise, to visit Guachimontones; however, there are few shaded spots in the archaeological zone. To avoid the hottest part of the day, stop by in the morning or late afternoon. The site is closed on Mondays.

Centrally located in the heart of Jalisco state, Guadalajara makes an excellent base for day-tripping travelers. Guachimontones and the neighboring town of Teuchitlán are good choices for those interested in archaeology. Visitors looking for the source of traditional tequila should make a beeline for the town with the same name. Alternatively, take it easy in artsy Tlaquepaque or stroll around the lake in Chapala.