Sightseeing in San Juan Teotihuacán

Overview

San Juan Teotihuacán, often referred to as just Teotihuacán, is an ancient Mesoamerican city located approximately 30 miles northeast of modern-day Mexico City. Known for its well-preserved Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon, it was one of the largest pre-Columbian cities and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Getting There

• By Car: Teotihuacán is easily accessible by car via Highway 85D from Mexico City. The journey takes around 1 hour without traffic.
• By Bus: Buses from the northern bus terminal (Terminal de Autobuses del Norte) in Mexico City also travel to Teotihuacán.

Sightseeing Highlights

1. Pyramid of the Sun: The larger of the two main pyramids, it is dedicated to the sun god and is an impressive sight. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
2. Pyramid of the Moon: Smaller but equally significant, this pyramid is dedicated to the moon goddess. It’s located at the end of the Avenue of the Dead.
3. Avenue of the Dead: This iconic street connects the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. It is lined with temples, palaces, and residential complexes on both sides.
4. Citadel: Located at the foot of the Pyramid of the Moon, this area contains several important structures, including the Palace of Quetzalpapálotl (Butterfly Feather), the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, and the Temple of Smoking Mounds.
5. The Ciudadela: A large complex located between the Pyramid of the Moon and the Citadel, it houses the Temple of Tlaloc, the god of rain.

Tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to protect yourself from the Mexican sun.
• The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
• Entrance fee for foreign visitors is around $8 USD (prices subject to change).