It was once among the biggest, most populous cities around the globe, but nowadays, the pyramids are the only remnants of the city that was once Teotihuacan located in Mexico.
The site is located close to the the modern-day Mexico City, the pyramids of Teotihuacan are located close to Mexico City. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that must be included on every traveler’s bucket list. A number of the largest pyramids are still ascents, with breathtaking views from the top of these prehistoric works of engineering.
It’s an amazing place to visit, and to assist you in planning your trip Here’s our information on Teotihuacan!
A Short History of the Teotihuacan Pyramids
Teotihuacan located in Mexico is unavoidably linked to its past; in the end, it’s an archeological site! It is therefore advisable to arm yourself with some background information prior to visiting Teotihuacan.
The ruin of Teotihuacan and the remaining pyramids are the only remnants of the once most strong town in Mesoamerica. The city isn’t just prehistoric, but it also predates the Aztecs who were the power to be faced when Europeans first arrived in the 1500s.
Teotihuacan was founded in the 1st century AD The city grew to become the largest city in the region. It was a hub for art, culture, history and civilisation within the Teotihuacan Valley, and had an immense influence over the surrounding region. The city grew to become one of the largest cities anywhere in the world, and was the home of tens of thousands of people. The pyramids that you see today were built (primarily to serve religious purposes) during the peak of the city’s strength. In the seventh century A.D., Teotihuacan was becoming abandoned for unidentified reasons (at at the same time other Mayan towns in south-central Mexico were also becoming abandoned).
The city’s ruins and the pyramids remained a major source of influence for many centuries to come However. The Aztecs were the first people to establish their capital city of Tenochtitlan towards South (where Mexico City stands today) were known to make pilgrimages to the temples. The name Teotihuacan is believed to refer to “Birthplace for Gods.” Gods” according to the Aztec dialect.
Following the Spanish conquer The pyramids were thrown into disrepair until archeological work was started a few centuries afterward. There’s now a renewed admiration for Teotihuacan and it’s considered to be one of the most well-preserved examples pre-Hispanic pyramids found in Mexico.
The Best time to visit Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan is best explored during the spring, winter, or the early summer season. The most ideal months to visit Teotihuacan are from November to May during which the weather is dry and the temperatures are cool.
Since the elevation in Teotihuacan at 2,300m (7,500 feet) and the winters can be quite cold even though it’s located within Central Mexico. Winter is the perfect time to beat the crowds, however (except during Christmas) If you’re not used to extreme temperatures, it’s an ideal time to go on a tour without being too hot.
In spring the sun shines and temperatures begin to rise however, tourist numbers are picking up as well. The summer months are extremely humid, as well as the climate is marked by a continuous rain (not an ideal time to be outside, going to Pyramids).
Whatever season you go to make sure to plan a trip to Teotihuacan during the week. The pyramids of Teotihuacan are located near Mexico City, and on weekends, they can be extremely busy.
Teotihuacan is located to the north from Mexico City; around 50 kilometers (nearly 32 miles) from the city’s center. Tours to Teotihuacan are available all day of the year. It’s accessible for an excursion from Mexico City.
Recommendation: We strongly recommend this Teotihuacan day trip from Mexico City. In this tour that begins early in the morning, you can beat the crowds and take in the impressive site of archeology just when it is opening its doors to visitors for the day. Explore its various structures, plazas and murals in a tranquil, peaceful the mystical and magical atmosphere which will give you to experience the true essence of this magnificent city of the past of Mexico.
Although organized tours are available and reasonably simple to take the public bus that takes you to the ruin (even when it’s your first time using public transportation within Mexico). Buses run regularly (every fifteen minutes, or more) at the terminal of Autobuses del Norte, Mexico City’s main Northern bus station.
The bus terminal is home to an own station for metro (Autobuses Del Norte Metro) located situated on the Yellow Line (Line 5). It is possible to purchase one ticket to ride the metro, or you can use the metro’s prepaid card. The journeys are cheap with just five pesos for a trip.
You can cut down on a lot of time by using the Uber for a ride to your station, however. They’re safe, simple to reserve on through the application, as well as a surprising value. Once you are at the terminal, you will see advertisements on various counters promoting the bus service to Teotihuacan (complete with photos of the pyramids to help make things easier). You can queue up, and then jump onto the next bus departure.
The trip can be as short than 45 mins from the airport dependent on the travel. There are a variety of entrances and exits into the complex of pyramids and you should take the first stop near one of the Pyramids (Gate 1). Purchase your entry ticket (a affordable 80 pesos per day ticket) and begin exploring.
When you return on the way back, you can take the bus from another exit instead of walking back to the point where you started. Buses are available throughout the entire day (the Pyramids remain open between 9 a.m. until five p.m.).
You could also rent a car to travel to Teotihuacan!
How Long Do I Have to Stay in Teotihuacan?
It is possible to visit Teotihuacan for an excursion of a day away from Mexico City, but with the long wait and transportation time, you could be spending the whole day in Teotihuacan.
The pyramids of Teotihuacan in Teotihuacan, you’ll require at least three or four hours to see all the attractions. This includes walking between the pyramids, a bit of time in the museum, and frequent breaks for refreshments and lunch.
Can I Stay the Night in Teotihuacan?
It’s not possible to stay the night in the pyramids, however, you can stay your night in the town nearby. It’s a short walk from the pyramids to the city center and there’s a variety of hotels available for booking.
It’s not necessary to stay overnight however it can mean you’ll be able to get up early enough to visit the pyramids, enjoy the sun set, or opt to the sunrise for a hot air balloon ride.
The Best Things to Do in Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan is spread over many kilometers, so be ready for a lot of walking during the day. It is also possible to rent bikes at the entrance in case you’d prefer. If you own a vehicle, you are able to drive around the perimeter of this complex, and then park it in various spots however you’ll being walking around and in.
As we’ve mentioned before, it’s much easier to take the bus. Get off at the first entry point and then take the return trip at the end of the entrance (start with Gate 1 of the Temple of Quetzalcoatl by Gate 1 and finish at Gate 3 of the Pyramid of the Moon by Gate 3).
With this in mind Here are the top things to do and see during the Teotihuacan tour.
1. Temple of Quetzalcoatl
The Temple of Quetzalcoatl (also known as the Temple of the Feathered Serpent) is the third largest pyramid at Teotihuacan. It is located near Gate 1 and is the first temple that is visited by day-trippers.
It’s not as impressive as other pyramids that you be able to see from a distance, however, it is full of historical significance and some of it quite dark. Graves of mass burials were discovered within the pyramid, and hidden underground tunnels are beneath the temple, and it is located within the city walls, rather than outside, like the other temples are.
2. Avenue of the Dead
The Avenue of the Dead is 2.5 kilometers (about 1.5 miles) in length and begins starting from to the Temple of Quetzalcoatl in a perfect straight line to The Pyramid of the Moon.
It was the main road that ran through the city of Teotihuacan and was named since it would be the main route used by those who were destined to be buried at the foot of the pyramids.
The route will take you along the avenue throughout your journey making stops at temples, as well as other attractions along the way.
3. Pyramid of the Sun
The Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacan is located along the Avenue of the Dead, between the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramid of the Moon. It is the biggest structure in the city, and is the most famous and easily identifiable.
It’s also the one that all climb to reach the top, so be prepared for a long climb through the steps. It’s worth the effort investment since the views are breathtaking (and all 360°).
The pyramid is a remarkable engineering feat. It is believed to be built around 200 A.D. and rises up to 65 meters (about 213 feet) in height, making it the third largest stone pyramid ever constructed anywhere in the world.
4. Pyramid of the Moon
The Pyramid of the Moon is situated at the edge of the Avenue of the Dead, at the point where the road ends. The pyramid measures 43 meters (about 140 feet) in height and features seven distinct layers leading to the highest point.
It is believed that the pyramid was a significant site for ritual sacrifices and religious ceremonies since graves were discovered around the base as well as within the pyramid’s layers within the pyramid itself.
5. Palace of Quetzalpapalotl
At the base at the foot of Pyramid of the Moon, you can stroll through the excavations from Quetzalpapalotl’s Palace. Palace of Quetzalpapalotl.
There are a variety of murals that have been meticulously restored and show the artistic talent that was developed before the arrival of the Spanish.
The precise function of the palace is not clear however it could have served as the residence of the highest-ranking priest due to the temple’s proximity.
6. Teotihuacan Museum
The tiny Teotihuacan Museum provides a glimpse into the past and archaeology of the pyramids as well as the city of ancient times.
There are artifacts, brief descriptions, and models of how the city been in the in the past. The information isn’t as deep however it does allow you to see the city as it is.
7. Hot Air Balloon Flight
The most thrilling ways to enjoy Teotihuacan is to go on an air balloon ride across the pyramids. It is possible to arrange them ahead of time, and as with the majority of hot air balloon rides you should take them in the morning.
From the air, you’ll get an aerial perspective of the entire complex and the valley that surrounds it, which puts the scale and size of the city in stark view.
Tips for visiting Teotihuacan
1. Go to at the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City First
There’s not a lot of information on the pyramids while walking around and it’s a good idea to go to the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City prior to your visit to Teotihuacan.
The Museum of Anthropology is one of the biggest museums in the world. And it has a wealth of information about the background of Teotihuacan and the civilization that created the pyramids.
The museum covers nearly all known periods in Mexican history, too it is possible to begin to piece the history into a coherent whole and see how the pyramids are positioned on the chronology.
2. Be Early to Leave, but Not Too Late
If you’re coming from Mexico City you’ll need to depart early to have a full day of sightseeing. But, you must stay clear of rush hour in the city. This is true for those traveling via car, metro, or Uber!
The rush hour in Mexico City is well-known, and the metro system jammed (literally overflowing) and the streets are filled with traffic.
Start your journey at 9 a.m. to avoid the most crowded rush time within the cities. There’s still enough time to visit the pyramids, and return to your hotel before the rush of evening.
Recommendation: When you book an excursion, you won’t need to fret about catching the right bus or navigating rush hour traffic. Additionally, you can stroll around with a knowledgeable guide who will tell you everything you need to know about the past of this significant pre-Hispanic city. Day tours are inexpensive and will take the stress from your visit towards Teotihuacan. Teotihuacan Pyramids.
3. Wear a hat and Sunscreen
There’s not a shade when you’re inside the pyramid complex (except in the Museum) since everything’s so vastly open.
When you climb to the summit of the pyramids and stroll through the Avenue of the Dead, you’ll be constantly exposed to the sunlight. Therefore, wear a sun hat and apply sunscreen even in the winter.
4. Begin with a Guided Tour of the Pyramids
While you are able to explore the area on your own with a guide, having a dedicated Teotihuacan guide will make the experience more real.
If you did not book an organized tour prior to departure You can also hire an experienced local guide in Teotihuacan at the entrance.
The prices are affordable and you’ll walk away from these pyramids in Teotihuacan with a greater appreciation of their significance that when you first arrived.
Pyramids in Teotihuacan are among the most stunning archeological sites in the world that should be visited by those who travel in the direction of Mexico City. The prehistoric ruins have stood through the ages, and provide a fascinating insight into the intricate cultures that grew and died long before Europeans came to Mexican shores. It’s the ideal day excursion to Mexico City!
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