Introduction
Reaching Calakmul is an essential part of the experience: it's not a destination you just pass through, but one you earn with intention. This guide is designed to help you find the best route to Xpujil , the closest and most convenient starting point for exploring both the Calakmul archaeological site and its impressive Biosphere Reserve.
If you're wondering: How to get to Calakmul? You've come to the right place. Here we'll tell you how to get there, whether by road, plane, bus, or even the Mayan Train. Later, we'll also explain how to complete the final stretch from Xpujil to the Calakmul ruins, crossing a jungle landscape that makes the trip as memorable as the destination itself.
Getting to Xpujil by car: main routes
Traveling by car gives you the freedom to stop, explore the jungle landscapes at your own pace, and connect with the essence of the place. Here are the main routes based on your starting point:
🚗 From Campeche : The most direct and safest option is to take Highway 186, which passes through Champotón and Escárcega. The journey is approximately 290 km and takes about 4 hours. If you prefer an alternative, cultural route, you can detour onto Highway 269, which crosses the so-called Ruta de los Chenes (Route of the Chenes), with stops at archaeological sites such as Hochob, Dzibilnocac, and Tabasqueño. However, this route is in poor condition and has limited road service, so it's only suitable if you're up for an off-the-beaten-track adventure. See map.
🚗 From Chetumal or Bacalar : This is one of the easiest and fastest routes. Just take Highway 186 toward Escárcega. It's approximately 90 km, which you can travel in 1 hour and 30 minutes. The road is in very good condition, making the trip comfortable and safe. See Map.
🚗 From Palenque : If you're traveling from Chiapas, you can take Federal Highway 186 toward Chetumal. The trip is approximately 360 km (220 mi) and takes about 5 hours. This route is also in good condition. See map.
🚗 From Mérida: From Mérida, there are also two ways to get to Xpujil depending on your travel style. The fastest and safest option is to take the highway to Campeche City, a drive of approximately 2 hours. From there, you can follow the direct route via Highway 186, as detailed above. If you prefer a more scenic and cultural alternative, you can leave Mérida towards Uxmal and continue along the Ruta de los Chenes until you reach Dzibalchén. From there, continue for another 1.5 hours to Calakmul. This route passes through charming villages and archaeological sites, although the road is slower and requires greater caution due to its uneven condition and takes around 5 hours. See Map.
Current state of the roads
Highway 186, which connects the main access points to Xpujil, is generally in good condition. It's a well-maintained federal highway, with adequate signage and gas stations at key points like Escárcega and Chetumal.
However, if you choose the alternative route via Highway 269, be aware that the road is narrower, with some fairly deteriorated sections and intermittent signs. Driving at night is not recommended.
📍 Useful tips :
Fill up your tank before heading into less-traveled areas.
Avoid driving at night.
Download offline maps in case there's no signal along your route.
Traveling by bus
🚌 If you don't have a car, airlines like ADO operate frequent routes to Xpujil from Mérida, Campeche, Escárcega, and Chetumal. These buses are comfortable and reliable. You can purchase your ticket at the ticket office or online by clicking here, although it usually fails if you use an international card. If you're participating in one of our tours and need assistance purchasing your tickets, please don't hesitate to contact us. We'd be happy to help.
Arrive by plane
✈️ The closest airport is Chetumal. From there you can:
Rent a car.
Hire private transportation to Xpujil (90 km / 1h 30min).
Aeroméxico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobús operate flights from cities like Mexico City. This is ideal for those looking to save time and arrive more comfortably.
Connections by Mayan Train
🚆 Xpujil is one of the stations on the Maya Train. This alternative is useful for those traveling from Palenque, Campeche, Bacalar, or Cancún. Frequencies and routes are still being adjusted, so check trenmaya.gob.mx before your trip.
The final road to the Calakmul archaeological site - How to get to Calakmul?
From Xpujil to the archaeological site of Calakmul, it's 110 km. The first 50 km stretch is on a wide, paved road. Then, at km 97, you'll find the turnoff to the south, where a narrower road begins that crosses the Biosphere Reserve. This final 60 km stretch can take an hour.
🌿 This last stretch is part of the experience. As you go deeper into the jungle, the road becomes narrower and winding, the sounds change, the air feels different, and it's common to see animals crossing. Drive slowly (limit: 30 km/h) and enjoy. If you're making the return trip in the afternoon, pay special attention to your surroundings: shadows cast by the trees can hinder visibility and cause eye strain while driving.
Tips for arriving safely
🚫 Avoid driving at night.
⛽ Fill your tank before leaving Xpujil.
📶 Download offline maps.
🧭 Consider booking a certified tour that includes transportation and a guide.
Conclusion
Arriving at Calakmul is part of its charm. The adventure begins the moment you choose your route. Plan, prepare, and keep your eyes open: the journey is as memorable as the destination. And when you finally stand before those ancient pyramids, you'll feel every mile was worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Do I need a 4x4 vehicle? It's not mandatory, but a car with good suspension is recommended. The last stretch of the road can be rough.
❓ Are there gas stations? Yes, in Chetumal, Escárcega, and Xpujil.
❓ How much does it cost to enter Calakmul? (March 2025) Full access to the archaeological site involves paying three different fees per person:
Entrance to the Conhuas community: $90 MXN
Access to the Biosphere Reserve: $110 MXN for nationals and $215 MXN for foreigners
Entrance to the archaeological site: $100 MXN
💰 The total cost is approximately $300 MXN for domestic visitors and $400 MXN for foreigners. Discounts are available for students, teachers, and seniors with valid ID. It's important to bring cash, as card payments aren't always available in the area.
❓ How long does it take to explore the site? Between 3 and 4 hours if you take your time.
Comentários