Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is Mexico's most visited archaeological zone and one of the most important in the world. It was Mesoamerica's largest city between 100 and 650 AD, with a population of 100,000-200,000 people — larger than imperial Rome at its time.

The Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, the Avenue of the Dead and the polychrome murals of the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl are unmissable. The monumental scale of the site needs to be experienced in person to be understood.

Pyramid of the Sun — The third largest pyramid in the world. 65 meters tall, 248 steps. Views from the top are impressive. Climbing takes 20-30 minutes depending on your fitness level.

Pyramid of the Moon — Smaller but architecturally more refined. Direct view down the Avenue of the Dead from the top. Less crowded than the Sun pyramid.

Avenue of the Dead — The main axis of the site, 4 km long. The Spanish named it thinking it was a cemetery; it was actually the city's central boulevard.

Citadel and Temple of Quetzalcoatl — The largest plaza on the site. The temple has the most important feathered serpent reliefs in Mesoamerica.

Bus from Terminal del Norte — The most economical and surprisingly efficient option. Direct buses to Teotihuacan every 15-20 minutes, $60-80 MXN one way. Journey takes 50-60 minutes.

Organized tour — From $400 MXN includes transport + specialized guide. Recommended for those who prefer historical context.

Uber/own car — 50 minutes by highway from Mexico City. Parking ~$100 MXN.

2026 Prices: adult entry ~$100 MXN (INAH), parking ~$100 MXN. Hot air balloon from ~$2,500 MXN.

Hours: open daily 9am-5pm. Arrive before 9am for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Teotihuacan seems like an easy site to visit but there are common mistakes that ruin the experience:

• Sunscreen is mandatory — The site has very little shade. SPF 50+ is necessary.
• Closed shoes with good grip for the steep pyramid stairs.
• Plenty of water — It's expensive inside the site. Bring at least 2 liters per person.
• Arrive early — The first 2 hours (9-11am) have fewer tourists and lower temperatures.
• Don't buy obsidian at the entrance — Prices are doubled there. Inside the site there are shops with better prices and quality.

8:00am: Arrive at Gate 2, head to the Pyramid of the Sun. Climb slowly, rest halfway up.

9:30am: Descend, walk along the Avenue of the Dead heading north.

10:30am: Arrive at the Pyramid of the Moon. Climb if you still have energy.

11:30am: Descend and explore the Citadel and Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

12:30pm: Leave before extreme midday heat. Lunch in San Juan Teotihuacan town.