Coba : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 20 Jun, 2023
- |
The mystical island of Coba is a destination like no other. Located in the Caribbean Sea, this small island is beloved for its spectacular beaches, lush rainforests, and ancient ruins. This is a place where you can explore mysterious Mayan ruins, go snorkeling, and sample local cuisine and culture. Whether you’re looking for interesting facts about this historic island or want to plan your next vacation here, our guide will provide you with all the information and tips you need. Find out more about the culture, food, and fun Coba has to offer, so that you can get the most out of your visit.
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Coba
1. Coba is a Maya archaeological site located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo.
2. Coba was a major Maya city in the pre-Columbian era.
3. The main pyramid in Coba is the Nohoch Mul Pyramid, which is the tallest Maya structure in the Yucatan Peninsula.
4. Coba houses an impressive system of elevated roads called sacbéob, or “white roads”, used by the ancient Maya to travel around their kingdom.
5. Coba is home to a Maya ruin called the Gran Plaza, which is one of the largest squares ever built by the ancient Maya.
6. Coba features several interesting monuments such as the famous El Castillo Pyramid, which is one of the largest sacbé in the area.
7. The ancient city of Coba was once part of the powerful Maya kingdom of Yaxchilan.
8. Coba’s proximity to the Caribbean Sea has shaped its climate and made it a great place to visit during the summer months.
9. The ancient city of Coba was conquered by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century.
10. While Coba is now a peaceful ruin, it still holds a sacred power for the modern-day Maya who still live in the area.
History & Information About Coba
Coba is a small ancient Mayan city located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Coba is a spectacular and relatively unknown site compared to other major Mayan cities, including Chichen Itza and Tulum. The ruins are located in the middle of lush jungle and amid three large lakes.
The city was founded around 500 AD, when the first settlers began to cultivate the land. As the city grew, so did its population of over 20,000 inhabitants. Its emphasis on commerce and agriculture enabled the city to thrive until around 1200 AD when the city was eventually abandoned.
Today Coba is a popular tourist destination, as visitors can take guided tours and explore the site by bike and/or by canoe. Coba is also known for its Nohoch Mul, a pyramid temple that towers over the area at 42 meters (137 feet) high. In addition to its famous pyramid, visitors can explore the various plazas, ball courts, and sculpted monuments throughout the city.
Coba is also the site of various religious ceremonials throughout the year, such as the spring Equinox in March and the planting ritual in May. Additionally, local guides offer night tours that explore the ruins and provide education on its history and culture.
- Catedral de Mérida : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- Anthropology Museum : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
Travel Guide For Visiting Coba
Mexico
Coba is an ancient Mayan city located in the state of Quintana Roo in Mexico. This mysterious site boasts of more than 6,000 structures and has many great features for travellers to explore. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your visit to Coba.
Getting There:
Getting to Coba is easy. The closest international airport is Cancun International Airport, about 68 kilometres or 42 miles away. You can take a taxi, a rental car, or a bus to get to Coba from there.
Accommodation:
Coba has a wide variety of accommodation to choose from. There are luxury resorts such as the Yaxkin Eco Lodge or the Grand Bahia Principe Coba, both offering high-end amenities and services. There is also the Maroma Resort and Spa which is slightly cheaper, and if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, there are plenty of Airbnb listings and hostels in and around the area.
Exploring Coba:
Coba is packed with a variety of things to see and do. The main attraction is the Nohoch Mul pyramid, which is the tallest of all Mayan pyramids. Other sites to explore include the ancient Mayan ball court, the macabre temple of the masks, and the cenote, a natural freshwater pool. You can also hire a bike and explore the ruins of Coba on your own.
The cenote at Coba is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling, while the nearby Laguna Coba offers canoe rentals and other water activities. The area is also a great place for bird watching, hiking, and horseback riding.
Food & Drink:
There are plenty of traditional Mexican restaurants offering traditional dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, chilaquiles, and mole. You can also find international cuisine at some of the resorts in the area. If you’re looking for a more casual meal, you can try the local taco carts or try some of the local street food.
Coba also has a variety of bars and nightclubs where you can get some refreshments after a long day exploring. Don’t forget to try some of the local brews such as Xaman, Chac-Xulub or Cobá Bier.
Safety:
Coba is a generally safe place to explore. However, it is recommended that you exercise caution as you would anywhere, and take your normal safety precautions. Make sure to lock the doors of your vehicle and don’t keep valuable items in plain sight. Be aware of your surroundings and keep all documents and identification with you at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions About Coba
Q. What is Coba – Quintana Roo?
A. Coba – Quintana Roo is an archaeological site located in the state of Quintana Roo in Mexico. It consists of several Maya archaeological structures, such as pyramids, temples, and plazas. It is believed to have been inhabited by the Maya civilization from the 6th to the 10th centuries.
Q. What type of activities can I do at Coba – Quintana Roo?
A. Visitors to Coba – Quintana Roo can explore the various archaeological structures and admire the beautiful views of the surrounding jungle. You can also go swimming in the nearby cenotes as well as try out adventure activities such as biking and zip-lining through the rainforest.
Q. Is there an entry fee to Coba – Quintana Roo?
A. Yes, there is an entry fee for Coba – Quintana Roo. The current entry fee is 80 Mexican pesos, or about 4 US dollars.
Q. What are the visiting hours at Coba – Quintana Roo?
A. Coba – Quintana Roo is open from 8:00am to 5:00pm every day.