Research the Mayan ruins. Mayan ruins are scattered throughout Mexico and Central America, and over the years, millions of visitors to these areas have come to climb the ruins. This has led to the deterioration of the surfaces, and many ruins have been closed to foot traffic to avoid doing further damage. Chichenitza, on the Yucatan Peninsula outside of Cancun, Mexico, has closed the great stairway of their El Castillo pyramid., according to YucatanToday.com. Fortunately, there are still other pyramids that visitors can climb, like Uxmal, Ek Balam and Cobá, in Mexico, Tikal and El Mirador in Guatamala, or Caracol and Altun Ha in Belize.
Make your travel plans well in advance. Historic Mayan ruins are popular tourist attractions. Book well ahead to secure the accommodations you desire. Be aware that most Mayan ruins are some distance outside of large cities, so you will need transportation from the airport to an area closer to the location of the ruins you wish to visit. Book lodging for the night close to the location of the ruins so that you have sufficient time to explore at your own pace. If you like to travel independently, map your destination in advance or bring a GPS. Tours of the ruins are available that offer transportation to and from the ruins, lunch and a narrated history of the site by experienced guides, according to TravelYucatan.com.
Contact an experienced guide in advance. Some ruins are deep within the jungles of Central America, and you will need the services of a reputable guide to lead you through some difficult terrain to get to the spot. Your travel agent will be able to put you in contact with people who are known to be both dependable and reasonably priced. Make sure you understand what is included in the tour and how much time you will have at the site.
