Kabah

The basics

Once connected to the nearby ruins of Uxmal by a sacbe (raised stone road), Kabah is also thought to have been ruled by the larger Maya site. However, some believe that the complexity of Kabah’s dozen or so low stone pyramids, altars, and buildings indicates it was once a city comparable to Uxmal.

As a smaller ruin, Kabah is typically visited alongside larger archaeological sites such as Uxmal and other Puuc Route destinations during private or shared full-day excursions. Multi-day visits to the Yucatán Peninsula typically include a stop at Kabah too.

Things to know before you go

• Kabah is a must-visit for history buffs and returning visitors to the Yucatán.

• Plan to spend about an hour or less exploring the compact site.

• There’s no on-site museum, but there is a restroom and places to buy refreshments.

• Guides can be hired on-site.

• Kabah may not be fully accessible for wheelchair users.

How to get there

Kabah is situated around 62 miles (100 kilometers) south of Mérida, near the Uxmal and Labná ruins, and the easiest way to reach it is by private vehicle. Follow Highway 261 and then look for Kabah signposts. There is parking nearby.

When to get there

Kabah is typically open daily to the public, and visitors should expect to spend around an hour exploring. Though it's not as popular as other Puuc Route ruins, it's best to arrive early to enjoy the site at its quietest and avoid the hottest hours of the day. Weekends are typically busier.

The Puuc Route

The Puuc Route—or Ruta Puuc—is a term used to describe a cluster of Maya cities that are all found in the same region and share the distinctive Puuc architectural style. This style typically features carved masks, vertical walls, and ornate friezes. Alongside Kabah, these cities include Uxmal, Labná, Sayil, and X-Lapak. Most of them can be visited in just one day from Mérida, either independently or on an organized tour.