Muyil, also known as Chunyaxché, is a remarkable Maya archaeological site located near the entrance of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, offering a rare combination of ancient history and pristine natural beauty. One of the oldest known Maya settlements on the eastern coast, Muyil dates back over 2,000 years and played a key role in early trade routes connecting inland cities with the Caribbean Sea.
Unlike larger and more crowded ruins, Muyil provides a peaceful and immersive experience surrounded by dense jungle. The site features well-preserved structures, including El Castillo, a tall pyramid that offers breathtaking views over the surrounding wetlands and lagoons. Walking paths and wooden boardwalks make exploration accessible while allowing visitors to fully enjoy the lush landscape.
Muyil is closely connected to Laguna Chunyaxché, a freshwater lagoon within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many travelers combine a visit to the ruins with a lagoon float or boat tour along ancient Maya canals, drifting through crystal-clear waters while spotting native birds, mangroves, and tropical flora.
Muyil (Chunyaxché) is ideal for visitors seeking history, nature, and tranquility. Its unique blend of archaeological significance and scenic beauty makes it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Riviera Maya beyond the typical tourist routes.
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Anderson Barros
in the last weekBeautiful site just on the way between Tulum and Bacalar.
tekla
3 weeks agoruben rizzi
3 weeks agoStill closed - a polite guy outside the gate suggested we could do some tours of the lagoon instead, but the parque archeologico is closed.
Dinde “Dinde” Tamps.
3 weeks agoWe came to this place because we wanted to visit the Muyil archaeological site. We love exploring. Upon arrival, we approached a counter and were greeted by two very friendly people. They gave us a brief overview of what would later become a unique, relaxing, and peaceful experience. These are different experiences: 1. The archaeological site 2. Walking along a wooden path through an ecosystem where you can see different trees and plants; the places and trees have signs with their names. There is a wooden viewpoint. 3. At the end of the path, you reach the large lagoon. 4. Taking a boat to the canals. It's very interesting to explore the canals, but what impressed us most was swimming in one of these freshwater canals; we found it spectacular. The Maya built roads called "Sacbe," which translates to "white road" in Spanish, and canals, perhaps called Bej Já or Bej Ha, which they used to travel from one region or town to another. Incredibly, the sea is very close, but these canals are completely separate. They are freshwater canals, a testament to Mayan engineering. Visit it, it's beautiful. Keep in mind there's no cell phone signal, and you have to pay the entrance fee in cash. It's best to hire a guide or take a tour, as they take you to the canal and the island where there are also small ruins or foundations. If you're only going to the archaeological zone, it's advisable to use mosquito repellent, as well as if you're going into the mangroves. However, if you take the canal tour, don't use mosquito repellent or sunscreen because it damages the canal's ecosystem. Bring water, comfortable clothes for crossing the jungle (it's a very humid environment), and while I wasn't bothered by mosquitoes, some people may be sensitive to them. Bring clothes for swimming in the canal (they usually provide life jackets). There are no mosquitoes in the canals. This is all part of the Sian Khan Protected Area. You won't forget this experience! ✅
MorganeP
a month agoThe site is still closed.