El Rey Ruins Tours

El Rey Ruins showing a ruin
El Rey Ruins which includes a ruin
El Rey Ruins featuring building ruins
El Rey Ruins featuring a ruin
El Rey Ruins showing animals


Visit the iguanas that now inhabit the spectacular ruins of this ancient Mayan city right in the heart of Cancun’s hotel district.

Cancun marks the entrance point to a historic region known as the Mundo Maya, or the Mayan World. Archeological research shows that the Mayan people have inhabited the area that covers parts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador since as early as 1800 bc. The area around Cancun was once an area of highly populated settlements. Today, evidence of these settlements can be experienced right in the heart of Cancun, at the El Rey Ruins.

The El Rey Ruins are all that remains of an ancient Mayan city, abandoned following the arrival of the Spanish settlers. As you explore the 47 stone structures and let your imagination fill in the details and color of ancient Mayan life. Climb to the top of the highest structure to find a Mayan temple and the burial site of an important Mayan figure. 

Some of the stone walls are still adorned with ancient paintings. While the murals have deteriorated with time, it is still possible to make out images resembling kings and other significant members of the community. While not as grand as other Mayan cities, El Rey is still highly atmospheric and offers an accessible introduction to the original inhabitants of Cancun.

The ruins have another, less expected attraction. Today, El Rey is inhabited by a huge colony of iguanas. The iguanas have become accustomed to human interaction, and are confident around people. Bring some fruit or bread to feed these fascinating creatures as they crawl between the ancient ruins.

El Rey Ruins are located in the center of Cancun’s hotel district, on the edge of the lagoon. They are best reached by bus or taxi, and paid parking is available in the hotel district. Entrance to the ruins is available daily for a very small fee, although this is waived on Sundays. The ruins offer little shade, so pack an umbrella, hat or sunblock.

Browse tours and tickets to explore El Rey Ruins

Reviews of El Rey Ruins

4.2
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
623
" "5 - Excellent 48%
4 - Good
425
" "4 - Good 33%
3 - Okay
201
" "3 - Okay 16%
2 - Disappointing
21
" "2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
20
" "1 - Terrible 2%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Wife liked it... kids and I knew we wouldn't so we didn't go

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Bring a towel on any excursions. High humidity this time of year

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Cool

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

GREAT views - bring tennis shoes!

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

These ruins are amazing and incredibly convenient. However, if you are willing to make the walk or get a cab, there is another area of these ruins (San Miguelito) about 3 kilometers up the road and across the street which has structures more akin to those at Chichen Itza!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

paid $10 for a history lesson by an older gentleman. Really knowledgeable , i enjoyed it.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near El Rey Ruins

Crown Paradise Club Cancun All Inclusive
Crown Paradise Club Cancun All Inclusive
3.5 out of 5
Boulevard Kukulcan Km 18.5, Cancun, QROO
Crown Paradise Club Cancun All Inclusive
Oleo Cancun Playa All Inclusive Resort
Oleo Cancun Playa All Inclusive Resort
4 out of 5
Cancun
Oleo Cancun Playa All Inclusive Resort
Wyndham Grand Cancun All Inclusive Resort & Villas
Wyndham Grand Cancun All Inclusive Resort & Villas
4 out of 5
Blvd. Kukulkan, L-48 KM. 16.5 M.53, Cancun, QROO
Wyndham Grand Cancun All Inclusive Resort & Villas
Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun All Inclusive
Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun All Inclusive
4 out of 5
Blvd. Kukulkan km 16.5, Zona Hotelera, Cancun, QROO
Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun All Inclusive
Iberostar Selection Coral Cancún - Adults Only - All Inclusive
Iberostar Selection Coral Cancún - Adults Only - All Inclusive
5 out of 5
Boulevard Kukulkán KM 17 B, Cancun, QROO
Iberostar Selection Coral Cancún - Adults Only - All Inclusive
JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa
JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa
5 out of 5
Blvd. Kukulcan, Km 14.5, Lote 40-A, Zona Hotelera, Cancun, QROO
JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa
Grand Oasis Cancun - All Inclusive
Grand Oasis Cancun - All Inclusive
4 out of 5
Blvd. Kukulcan, Km. 16.5, Zona Hotelera, Cancun, QROO
Grand Oasis Cancun - All Inclusive
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.