Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul Campeche

Guiding You Through the Enchanting Realms: Ancient Maya City of Calakmul and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

    • Brief History of Calakmul
    • Location and Geography

  2. The Wondrous Ancient Maya City: Calakmul

    • Architectural Marvels
      • El Castillo
      • Group of the Two TOM’s (Temples of the Masks)
      • Groups II, III, IV and V
    • The Jaguar’s Den (Sacbe 3)
    • The Observatory
    • Biosphere Reserve: Calakmul’s Flora and Fauna

  3. Exploring the Protected Tropical Forests

    • Wildlife Encounters: Jaguars, Spider Monkeys, and more!
    • Birdwatching Paradise
    • Night Safari Adventure

  4. Preparation for Your Journey

    • Best Time to Visit
    • Getting There and Around
      • Traveling to Calakmul
      • Lodging Options
    • What to Bring

  5. Respecting and Protecting the Ancient Maya City and Tropical Forests of Calakmul

  6. Further Resources

    • Official Websites
    • Useful Travel Tips
    • Suggested Books for a Deeper Dive into Maya Culture

1. Introduction

Brief History of Calakmul

The enigmatic ancient city of Calakmul is one of the most significant Maya archaeological sites in Mexico, housing an estimated 6500 structures sprawling over approximately 72 square miles (186 km²). Its rich history dates back to as early as the Preclassic period, with its golden age occurring during the Classic Period from approximately 600 AD to 900 AD. Calakmul’s influence reached far beyond its borders, making it one of the most powerful Maya city-states.

Location and Geography

Calakmul is situated in the heart of the Petén Forest (El Bosque de Peten) in Campeche, Mexico, sharing a border with Guatemala’s El Petén department. This region is home to the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, an expansive protected area teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

2. The Wondrous Ancient Maya City: Calakmul

Architectural Marvels

El Castillo

El Castillo (the castle) is Calakmul’s most iconic structure, standing at a towering 45 meters tall. This impressive pyramid serves as an imposing testament to the ancient city’s power and grandeur. Climb its steps for a breathtaking view of the jungle-covered city below.

Group of the Two TOM’s (Temples of the Masks)

The Group of the Two TOM’s houses two temples adorned with intricate stucco masks. These temples offer insights into the complex Maya religion and mythology, as well as showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.

Groups II, III, IV and V

Explore the various architectural groups within Calakmul, each providing a glimpse into different periods of the city’s history. These groups feature numerous structures such as palaces, temples, and residences that showcase the ingenuity and skill of the ancient Maya builders.

The Jaguar’s Den (Sacbe 3)

The Sacbe 3, or “The Jaguar’s Den,” is one of Calakmul’s longest white roads connecting the city’s various structures. This impressive road provides an opportunity to marvel at the ancient Maya’s engineering prowess and offers a chance to spot wildlife that calls this dense jungle home.

The Observatory

Calakmul’s observatory reveals the advanced knowledge the ancient Maya had of astronomy, mathematics, and timekeeping. Alignments suggest that the site may have been used for astronomical purposes, further highlighting the sophistication of the Maya civilization.

Biosphere Reserve: Calakmul’s Flora and Fauna

Calakmul is part of the 5,225-square-mile (13,540 km²) Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, home to a staggering array of plant and animal species. The dense jungle teems with life, from jaguars and spider monkeys to toucans and scarlet macaws.

3. Exploring the Protected Tropical Forests

Wildlife Encounters: Jaguars, Spider Monkeys, and more!

Keep your eyes peeled for Calakmul’s elusive jaguar population as well as its lively spider monkey inhabitants. Other wildlife you may encounter includes tapirs, howler monkeys, pumas, ocelots, and a diverse assortment of reptiles and amphibians.

Birdwatching Paradise

Bird lovers will be in awe of Calakmul’s avian population. The biosphere reserve boasts over 300 recorded bird species, including the harpy eagle, keel-billed toucan, scarlet macaw, and ocellated turkey.

Night Safari Adventure

Embark on a night safari adventure to witness the nocturnal denizens of the jungle. Using specialized equipment, guides will help you spot elusive creatures such as the puma, ocelot, and various species of bats and owls.

4. Preparation for Your Journey

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Calakmul is from November through April when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is minimal. However, remember that this is also peak tourist season.

Getting There and Around

Traveling to Calakmul

To reach Calakmul, you can take a domestic flight from Cancun or Merida to the city of Campeche. From there, hire a car or book a tour to travel the approximately 100 miles (160 km) to the site. Alternatively, you can travel overland from the Guatemalan border, but keep in mind that this route may be less convenient and more challenging.

Lodging Options

There are several lodging options available near Calakmul, ranging from hotels and cabanas to eco-lodges. Be sure to book accommodation well in advance during peak tourist season.

What to Bring

Be sure to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, long pants, and closed-toe shoes for protection against insects, sun exposure, and potential jaguar encounters. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife spotting and a camera to capture the beauty of Calakmul.

5. Respecting and Protecting the Ancient Maya City and Tropical Forests of Calakmul

When visiting Calakmul, remember to respect its rich history by adhering to all rules and regulations set forth by park officials. This includes staying on designated trails, not touching or disturbing archaeological sites, and being mindful of the local wildlife. Your actions will help ensure that future generations can continue to marvel at this extraordinary ancient city and its enchanting tropical forest home.

6. Further Resources

Official Websites

Useful Travel Tips

  • Bring cash for entrance fees and tipping guides.
  • Pack a change of clothes in case you get wet or muddy during your visit.
  • Hire a licensed guide for a more enriching experience.

Suggested Books for a Deeper Dive into Maya Culture

  • “The Ancient Maya” by David Freidel, Linda Schele, and Joyce Marcus
  • “A Forest of Time: The Natural and Cultural History of Tropical Rainforests” by Simon A. Levin
  • “Calakmul Maya” edited by Jana Jones, Karl A. Taube, and Stephen D. Houston