In the Mexican heritage and within this Slow Travel Blog, the Maya history and legacy play a crucial role. Captivating travellers worldwide, icons like Chichen Itza and Palenque attract the most visitors annually. Yet, thirsting for paths less trodden and authentic slow travel destinations (hi like-minded wanderers), this mindset led me to the heart of the jungle, to the Calakmul ruins, untouched by the clamour of crowds.
Then, come and explore Calakmul with me, an antic marvel cradled in the wilderness, its beauty magnified by the solitude it offers. However, the journey to this hidden gem was anything but serene, marked by…
In the Mexican heritage and within this Slow Travel Blog, the Maya history and legacy play a crucial role. Captivating travellers worldwide, icons like Chichen Itza and Palenque attract the most visitors annually. Yet, thirsting for paths less trodden and authentic slow travel destinations (hi like-minded wanderers), this mindset led me to the heart of the jungle, to the Calakmul ruins, untouched by the clamour of crowds.
Then, come and explore Calakmul with me, an antic marvel cradled in the wilderness, its beauty magnified by the solitude it offers. However, the journey to this hidden gem was anything but serene, marked by…
The triggering context: how i Ended up in the calakmul ruins
Usually, context is everything, as they say. Thus, here we are, diving into the frame of this adventure. After ending my contract as an au pair in Mexico, my desire for exploration wasn’t satisfied yet. At that moment, a spark of spontaneity and curiosity coupled with a lot of freedom in front of me (aka say hello to unemployment) ignited my wanderlust. That is how I decided to start a three-month trip to discover the country before returning to France.
Therefore, armed with my good old backpack, I was discovering Mexico’s secrets and beauties, journeying through Jalisco, Nayarit, Yucatan, and Guanajuato until fate pushed me toward Campeche. Little did I know what was awaiting me in the Calakmul ruins.
Usually, context is everything, as they say. Thus, here we are, diving into the frame of this adventure. After ending my contract as an au pair in Mexico, my desire for exploration wasn’t satisfied yet.
At that moment, a spark of spontaneity and curiosity coupled with a lot of freedom in front of me (aka say hello to unemployment) ignited my wanderlust.
That is how I decided to start a three-month trip to discover the country before returning to France.
Therefore, armed with my good old backpack, I was discovering Mexico’s secrets and beauties, journeying through Jalisco, Nayarit, Yucatan, and Guanajuato until fate pushed me toward Campeche.
Little did I know what was awaiting me in the Calakmul ruins.
My au pair experience in Mexico
The unexpected encounter (once again)
Hearing about the Calakmul ruins
I was staying at a humble and welcoming hostel when my next stop unfolded at the corner of a random chat. This night we were sharing stories and laughter on the rooftop, when a girl named Clemence planted a seed of curiosity in my mind. Amidst many topics, she joyfully shared about the Calakmul ruins.
With stars in her eyes, she described an incredible old Maya site, hidden and hardly touched by tourism due to its secluded location. Plus, she explained that the low touristy frequentation was mainly due to its difficulty of access, far from the main roads and tour itineraries, without any hostels or hotels around.
I was staying at a humble and welcoming hostel when my next stop unfolded at the corner of a random chat. This night we were sharing stories and laughter on the rooftop, when a girl named Clemence planted a seed of curiosity in my mind.
Amidst many topics, she joyfully shared about the Calakmul ruins. With stars in her eyes, she described an incredible old Maya site, hidden and hardly touched by tourism due to its secluded location.
Plus, she explained that the low touristy frequentation was mainly due to its difficulty of access, far from the main roads and tour itineraries, without any hostels or hotels around.
Taking a decision
While she was talking with such enthusiasm, I couldn’t help but dream about it. Her description of its grandeur and mystique instantly sealed my thoughts.
“Say no more!”, I exclaimed as I already knew what and where my next adventure would be.
And so, a bond was forged, not just with Calakmul but with Clemence, who became a cherished friend.
PS: It might be interesting for you, so listen up! The fun fact is that she travelled with a friend the day before we met. Her friend happens to be the cousin of one of my best friends. The world is damn small 🙂
While she was talking with such enthusiasm, I couldn’t help but dream about it. Her description of its grandeur and mystique instantly sealed my thoughts.
“Say no more!”, I exclaimed as I already knew what and where my next adventure would be.
And so, a bond was forged, not just with Calakmul but with Clemence, who became a cherished friend.
PS: It might be interesting for you, so listen up! The fun fact is that she travelled with a friend the day before we met. Her friend happens to be the cousin of one of my best friends. The world is damn small 🙂
Gathering Companion to explore the calakmul ruins
After fixing some mandatory details for this Slow Travel destination and adventure, it was time to do the first steps. However, as much excitement as I felt, I was also eager to share the experience (and the expenses). Therefore, I sought a fellow adventurer also driven by the same desires.
This person happened to be Oriane, introduced through a Facebook group. We quickly sympathised and became travel companions for this expedition after discussing the details of our route. But Clemence was right; the path to Calakmul was a challenge, safeguarding its splendour from the masses.
After fixing some mandatory details for this Slow Travel destination and adventure, it was time to do the first steps. However, as much excitement as I felt, I was also eager to share the experience (and the expenses). Therefore, I sought a fellow adventurer also driven by the same desires.
This person happened to be Oriane, introduced through a Facebook group. We quickly sympathised and became travel companions for this expedition after discussing the details of our route. But Clemence was right; the path to Calakmul was a challenge, safeguarding its splendour from the masses.
How to Reach the Calakmul Ruins?
A First Stop at Xpujil
The journey to Calakmul from Campeche (the state capital is named Campeche. Mexicans like it simple) took us two days, counting the exploration. To completely immerse ourselves in the majesty of the Calakmul ruins from the opening, we decided to pause at Xpujil. This stop was strategic, serving as a midway point to rest and gather information.
There, I found a cosy room offered by a local homeowner, costing me next to nothing. While we were savouring our evening meal, my host mentioned a taxi driver he knew. According to him, the man could easily bring us to the site’s entrance. From my experience, following a stranger’s advice could end up the right way, so we accepted.
The journey to Calakmul from Campeche (the state capital is named Campeche. Mexicans like it simple) took us two days, counting the exploration. To completely immerse ourselves in the majesty of the Calakmul ruins from the opening, we decided to pause at Xpujil. This stop was strategic, serving as a midway point to rest and gather information.
There, I found a cosy room offered by a local homeowner, costing me next to nothing. While we were savouring our evening meal, my host mentioned a taxi driver he knew. According to him, the man could easily bring us to the site’s entrance. From my experience, following a stranger’s advice could end up the right way, so we accepted.
The Best Way to Reach Calakmul
Following a night of rest, we jumped on the taxi driver’s vintage car. Then, we rode along deserted but magnificent roads for two hours until we reached the initial checkpoints. This was our first hint that Calakmul lay hidden within a vast natural reserve, shrouded by untamed wilderness. However, little did we know that our goal was still far away.
By being subject to a trio of fees, one for the reserve, another for the state, and a third for road usage (Mexicans certainly have a knack for keeping things… straightforward), we still had to wait long before reaching the entrance.
Once there, our driver parked in front of a modest building and offered to wait as long as necessary for us to conclude our exploration without demanding any additional payment. True to his word, he was a real gentleman. Finally, our exploration was about to start!
Following a night of rest, we jumped on the taxi driver’s vintage car. Then, we rode along deserted but magnificent roads for two hours until we reached the initial checkpoints.
This was our first hint that Calakmul lay hidden within a vast natural reserve, shrouded by untamed wilderness. However, little did we know that our goal was still far away.
By being subject to a trio of fees, one for the reserve, another for the state, and a third for road usage (Mexicans certainly have a knack for keeping things… straightforward), we still had to wait long before reaching the entrance.
Once there, our driver parked in front of a modest building and offered to wait as long as necessary for us to conclude our exploration without demanding any additional payment. True to his word, he was a real gentleman.
Finally, our exploration was about to start!
“The true journey is measured not in miles but in moments of awe and wonder.”
Welcome to the Calakmul Ruins: The Most Unique Maya site
Within a natural reserve, Calakmul is a testament to the Maya civilization. Plus, being untouched by modern hands except for the occasional trash bin and a simple dirt path, the magic can happen here.
While taking my first steps, entering Calakmul, I quickly started to be submerged by various stimuli. Simply put, it was like stepping into another world. Surrounded by dense jungle and wildlife noises, we trekked towards the ruins, hearts racing.
Our journey into the heart of this ancient world commenced with a walk of ninety minutes until our path led us to the first of Calakmul treasures: a hidden pyramid that, despite its small size, radiated an enchanting aura.
Within a natural reserve, Calakmul is a testament to the Maya civilization. Plus, being untouched by modern hands except for the occasional trash bin and a simple dirt path, the magic can happen here.
While taking my first steps, entering Calakmul, I quickly started to be submerged by various stimuli. Simply put, it was like stepping into another world. Surrounded by dense jungle and wildlife noises, we trekked towards the ruins, hearts racing.
Our journey into the heart of this ancient world commenced with a walk of ninety minutes until our path led us to the first of Calakmul treasures: a hidden pyramid that, despite its small size, radiated an enchanting aura.
The Uniqueness of Calakmul
What sets Calakmul apart is its embrace by nature; no restorations have disturbed its slumber. Surrounded by trees and flora intertwined with stone, it displays a special atmosphere over the ruins, making us feel like genuine explorers.
Every visitor is invited to navigate this ancient metropolis the way they desire but have to respect certain conditions: treat what is around with respect and don’t step out of the determined paths. Then, navigate through the ruins how you like, whether climbing them, going under, or simply admiring them from the outside.
What sets Calakmul apart is its embrace by nature; no restorations have disturbed its slumber. Surrounded by trees and flora intertwined with stone, it displays a special atmosphere over the ruins, making us feel like genuine explorers.
Every visitor is invited to navigate this ancient metropolis the way they desire but have to respect certain conditions: treat what is around with respect and don’t step out of the determined paths.
Then, navigate through the ruins how you like, whether climbing them, going under, or simply admiring them from the outside.
Captivation
After one hour, we reached the climax of our exploration. The path led us to the city’s core where, before our amazed eyes, two giant pyramids were facing each other in silent rivalry. Compelled by an irresistible call, we climb to their tops and get rewarded with a breathtaking view.
In front of us spread a sea of green and untouched canopy animated by the playful monkey families in the treetops. Then, perched atop our jungle throne, we devoured a delicious picnic (even the simplest of meals transformed into a feast for the ages with a good view), followed by a restful nap on the ancient stones.
After one hour, we reached the climax of our exploration. The path led us to the city’s core where, before our amazed eyes, two giant pyramids were facing each other in silent rivalry. Compelled by an irresistible call, we climb to their tops and get rewarded with a breathtaking view.
In front of us spread a sea of green and untouched canopy animated by the playful monkey families in the treetops.
Then, perched atop our jungle throne, we devoured a delicious picnic (even the simplest of meals transformed into a feast for the ages with a good view), followed by a restful nap on the ancient stones.
Creating Long-Lasting Memories
As night came, we bid farewell to this sacred site. After such an adventure, our spirits were full of memories of a land preserved from time and untouched by commercial hands. The Calakmul ruins stand as a hidden jewel far removed from the trappings of tourism in Mexico. Therefore, I hope you can find the same joy, admiration, and respect towards this site as I felt during these few hours.
Nature offers wonderful gifts, let’s not take those for granted but strive to safeguard such treasures for future generations.
Enjoy your own journey into the heart of Maya’s legacy 🙂
As night came, we bid farewell to this sacred site. After such an adventure, our spirits were full of memories of a land preserved from time and untouched by commercial hands.
The Calakmul ruins stand as a hidden jewel far removed from the trappings of tourism in Mexico. Therefore, I hope you can find the same joy, admiration, and respect towards this site as I felt during these few hours.
Nature offers wonderful gifts, let’s not take those for granted but strive to safeguard such treasures for future generations.
Enjoy your own journey into the heart of Maya’s legacy 🙂
What have I learned from this travel story?
The essence of travel lies in the connections we forge along the way. Although I usually really enjoy my solo travel adventures, I have to admit that through the stories shared with fellow explorers, we can pave the way to our next adventure.
By engaging in conversations, sharing and absorbing stories; you can transform these interactions into something powerful. At worst it will end up being a nice encounter or, at best, a guide to unexpected adventures.
The beauty of such exchanges? They invariably enrich your journey, sometimes offering new directions and opportunities.
Moreover, for those of us with a penchant for thrifty but savvy exploration, remember: that many travellers out there share your vision. With research, you might uncover potential journey-mates eager to divide expenses and create unforgettable memories. In the end, the shared moments are always the nicer to remember!
The essence of travel lies in the connections we forge along the way. Although I usually really enjoy my solo travel adventures, I have to admit that through the stories shared with fellow explorers, we can pave the way to our next adventure.
By engaging in conversations, sharing and absorbing stories; you can transform these interactions into something powerful. At worst it will end up being a nice encounter or, at best, a guide to unexpected adventures.
The beauty of such exchanges? They invariably enrich your journey, sometimes offering new directions and opportunities.
Moreover, for those of us with a penchant for thrifty but savvy exploration, remember: that many travellers out there share your vision.
With research, you might uncover potential journey-mates eager to divide expenses and create unforgettable memories. In the end, the shared moments are always the nicer to remember!
The impact of the Calakmul Ruins on on my travel experience
Thus, my voyage to Mexico presented a poignant moment of disillusionment amidst its wonders. When I stumbled upon piles of waste in isolated locations, far from any human touch, it sparked a moment of despair about our collective commitment to the planet.
Unfortunately, such a sight in the wilderness challenges the dream of finding untouched marvels. Are there some rare places that have escaped the scars of neglect and disrespect?
Yet, the Calakmul ruins are a light of hope among these reflections. The remote location and preservation offered a new vision of a brighter future.
Furthermore, I decided to dive into the Maya’s history. Afterwards, I learned about what led to the end of their civilisations and all the mysteries around their downfall. It appears to be even more fascinating than what I was expecting, but that’s for another story in this Slow Travel Blog.
Until then, take care of yourself, lighten your curiosity and be kind!
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect With Heart.
Thus, my voyage to Mexico presented a poignant moment of disillusionment amidst its wonders. When I stumbled upon piles of waste in isolated locations, far from any human touch, it sparked a moment of despair about our collective commitment to the planet.
Unfortunately, such a sight in the wilderness challenges the dream of finding untouched marvels. Are there some rare places that have escaped the scars of neglect and disrespect?
Yet, the Calakmul ruins are a light of hope among these reflections. The remote location and preservation offered a new vision of a brighter future.
Furthermore, I decided to dive into the Maya’s history. Afterwards, I learned about what led to the end of their civilisations and all the mysteries around their downfall. It appears to be even more fascinating than what I was expecting, but that’s for another story in this Slow Travel Blog.
Until then, take care of yourself, lighten your curiosity and be kind!
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect With Heart.
