EXPLORE CALAKMUL WITH KA'AN EXPEDITIONS
Step into the heart of Calakmul, one of the most significant Mayan cities, hidden within Mexico’s largest jungle. With Ka’an Expeditions, explore its breathtaking archaeological wonders alongside expert guides and embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve.
History, nature, and adventure come together in an unforgettable journey.
Your expedition starts here!
ABOUT KA'AN
EXPEDITIONS
At Ka'an Expeditions, we are a locally owned and operated, with over 15 years of experience guiding travelers through the Calakmul Archaeological Zone and Biosphere Reserve.
As the highest-rated local tour operator, we are committed to sustainable tourism and authentic, immersive exploration.
Our certified guides and small group tours ensure a personalized experience, where history and nature come together in a truly unforgettable journey.
Explore the jungle. Connect with the past. Discover the magic of the Maya civilization.
Your adventure begins here.
A SEA OF JUNGLE
DISCOVER OUR TOURS
Discover the diversity of tours we offer in Calakmul for nature and archaeology lovers. From jungle hikes to visits to ancient Mayan cities, we have the perfect adventure for you.
At Ka'an Expeditions, we strive to provide the best experience by continuously evolving to craft unforgettable moments in Calakmul, even for the most discerning travelers.
Our greatest source of inspiration?
Our visitors' feedback. Their insights drive us to keep improving, refining every adventure to ensure each journey is even more memorable than the last.
Stay at Casa Ka'an and get a 10% discount on your tour
A Hidden Treasure in the Jungle
Imagine an infinite green sea stretching as far as the eye can see. The deep blue sky contrasts with the vastness of the jungle, creating a mesmerizing landscape.
Welcome to the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, a natural sanctuary so immense that it could fit ten times the size of Singapore. Here, nature follows its own rhythm, and species like spider and howler monkeys, deer, peccaries, ocellated turkeys, jaguars, pumas, and ocelots roam freely.
But Calakmul is more than just a natural wonder—it is living history. Within the reserve lies one of the most important archaeological sites of the Maya civilization. Spanning 32 km² and home to nearly 6,000 structures, this ancient city was the capital of the legendary Kingdom of the Serpent (Ka’an), a formidable rival of Tikal.
In 2014, UNESCO designated Calakmul as a Mixed World Heritage Site, recognizing the extraordinary relationship between the Maya culture and its jungle environment. This protected area covers nearly 300,000 hectares and safeguards around 350 archaeological sites, many still unexplored.
Discovered in 1931, the archaeological zone was revealed by chance when gum extractors stumbled upon its ruins. However, its history dates back much further—Calakmul flourished during the Middle Preclassic period and endured until the Late Postclassic, leaving an indelible mark in the heart of the Maya jungle.
HOW TO GET TO CALAKMUL OR XPUJIL?
What is Calakmul? More Than Just One Place
It’s important to understand that Calakmul is not a single destination, but rather three distinct places:
🏛 The Calakmul Archaeological Site – One of the largest and most impressive Maya cities, with nearly 6,000 structures hidden deep in the jungle.
🌿 The Calakmul Biosphere Reserve – One of Mexico’s largest protected natural areas, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife.
📍 The Municipality of Calakmul – A vast region that includes 82 communities, with Xpujil as its main town and the ideal starting point for visiting the archaeological site and the reserve.
Where Are the Hotels and Tourist Services?
Most accommodations and tourist services are located in Xpujil, the municipal capital and the best base for exploring Calakmul.
How to Get to Xpujil?
🚗 By Car
From Campeche
The safest route is Highway 186, passing through Champotón and Escárcega. The journey covers 290 km and takes about 4 hours.
For a more adventurous option, you can take Highway 269 through Dzibalchén, which allows you to visit the archaeological sites of the Ruta de los Chenes (Hochob, Dzibilnocac, Tabasqueño).
Things to consider:
🚧 The road conditions are poor.
⏳ Travel time is longer despite the shorter distance.
📶 Cell phone signal is only available in Dzibalchén.
Choose your route based on your travel style.
From Chetumal or Bacalar
The route is straightforward: take Highway 186 towards Escárcega. The journey is 90 km and takes about 1.5 hours.
🛣️ Road conditions: The highway is in excellent condition, making the trip smooth and comfortable.
From Palenque
Take Federal Highway 186 towards Chetumal. The journey is 360 km and takes about 5 hours.
🛣️ Road conditions: The highway is in good condition, ensuring a comfortable drive.
🚌 By Bus
Visit the official ADO website to check schedules, routes, and the latest prices: www.ado.com.mx
💳 Important: International credit cards sometimes do not work when booking tickets online. If you encounter any issues and are on one of our tours, let us know—we’ll be happy to help!
✈️ By Plane
The closest airport to Calakmul is in Chetumal, Quintana Roo.
Airlines operating flights to Chetumal:
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Volaris
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Aeroméxico
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Viva Aerobús
🚆 By Train
To check schedules, routes, and updated prices for the Tren Maya, visit their official website: www.trenmaya.gob.mx.
📅 Important: Since the Tren Maya is a newly launched service, schedules and routes may change. Always check before traveling to plan your trip smoothly!