Teotihuacán

The basics

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a common destination for day trips from nearby Mexico City. See the pyramids from above on a sunrise hot-air balloon ride before exploring the ruins on the ground, or opt for an early-morning guided tour with an archaeologist to learn the site's history and avoid the crowds that descend later in the day. Most of Teotihuacán’s structures, or at least what remains of them, are found along Calle de los Muertos. This wide, 1.5-mile-long road, translates to the “avenue of the dead.”

Teotihuacán highlights include the Moon Plaza, the Sun Pyramid, the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl, and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, which translates to the feathered serpent temple. In the 1980s, archeologists found evidence that human sacrifices were conducted here. Many historians believe that the Aztecs practiced cannibalism, not regularly, but during important rituals.

Things to know before you go

• Teotihuacán tours are a must for history buffs and those interested in indigenous cultures.

• The steep climb to the top of the Pyramid of the Sun, the largest pyramid, includes more than 200 steps but is currently closed for climbing.

• Though the pyramids are not wheelchair accessible, the restrooms and the site itself (including the temple of the feathered serpent) are.

• Teotihuacán is open 365 days a year, and Mexican residents receive free admission on Sundays.

• On weekends and holidays, a trolley takes visitors from the entry booths to various sites of Teotihuacán for a small fee.

How to get there

Located about 30 miles (50 kilometers) northeast of Mexico City, Teotihuacán is accessible by the scenic but long 132D, a winding freeway that can take well over an hour, and 85D, a toll road that will usually get you to the pyramids in about 50 minutes. It's also easy and convenient to take a bus from the Terminal Central del Norte in Mexico City; buses leave at least hourly and are geared toward tourists with limited Spanish skills.

When to get there

Receiving upwards of 4.5 million visitors annually, Teotihuacán is one of the most popular sites in Mexico. Since locals receive free admission on Sundays, expect more crowds then. Popular Mexican public holidays, such as Independence Day (September 16), the week of Easter (Semana Santa), and All Saints Day (November 1) also tend to attract more visitors, especially families with young children.

If you want to beat the crowds, it’s best to arrive as early in the day as possible. This is also ideal weather-wise. Although Teotihuacán is at a high altitude (about 7,500 feet above sea level), daytime temperatures can be quite high. Don’t expect to find much shade. If you want to avoid wet weather, try to visit outside of Mexico’s rainy season, May through Sept.

Visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

About a 50-minute drive from Teotihuacán, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe) is the most-visited religious site in Latin America. In 1531, a man professed to see a vision of the Virgin Mary at the site, and a second image is said to have appeared on his cloak. Millions of worshippers come to the basilica every year to see this sacred cloth, and Our Lady of Guadalupe Day is celebrated December 12.

Ways to explore

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a common destination for day trips from nearby Mexico City. See the pyramids from above on a sunrise hot-air balloon ride before exploring the ruins on the ground, or opt for an early-morning guided tour with an archaeologist to learn the site’s history and avoid the crowds that descend later in the day. Most of Teotihuacán’s structures, or at least what remains of them, are found along Calle de los Muertos (Avenue of the Dead).

Accessibility

The pyramids are not wheelchair accessible, but the restrooms and archaeological site are.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Insect repellent, sun hat

What to wear

There are 200 steps to the top of the Sun Pyramid, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip.

Not allowed

Drones, pets, smoking

Amenities

Restrooms, information signs in Spanish and English, two museums, snack vendors, restaurants near the entrance

Address

Located about 30 miles (50 kilometers) northeast of Mexico City, Teotihuacán is accessible by the scenic but long 132D—a winding freeway that can take well over an hour—and 85D, a toll road that will usually get you to the pyramids in about 50 minutes.

Driving

Head north on Highway 132D, which is marked for Pirámides/Tulancingo. Take the exit for Teotihuacan after about 25 miles (40 kilometers), then follow signs to the parking lot.

Public transportation

It’s also easy and convenient to take a bus from the Terminal Central del Norte in Mexico City. Buses leave at least hourly and are geared toward tourists with limited Spanish skills.

Best times to visit

Arrive as early as you can to explore before the daytime heat reaches its peak around lunchtime.

Best days to visit

On weekends and holidays, a trolley takes visitors from the entry booths to various stops within the site for a small fee.

Best months to visit

Plan to visit during the dry season from November through April.

Special events

Mexico celebrates the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) from October 31–November 2 every year. Enjoy the festivities in Mexico City before and after your Teotihuacán excursion.