Kohunlich Ruins Excursion from Costa Maya Full Review & Tips
The Kohunlich Mayan Ruins are one of the most unique excursions you can take from Costa Maya — quieter, more remote, and far less crowded than the popular Chacchoben ruins. If you’re looking for an authentic, peaceful, jungle‑covered archaeological site with incredible history, this is the one to book.
In this guide, I break down exactly what the drive is like, what you’ll see, how long it takes, what to pack, and whether this excursion is worth it for your cruise itinerary.
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🚐 How to Book the Kohunlich Ruins Excursion
This excursion is offered through most cruise lines, but you can often find better pricing or smaller groups through trusted third‑party operators.
Compare Prices & Tour Options
These platforms offer flexible cancellation and a variety of group sizes — great if you prefer something more intimate than the cruise‑sponsored buses.
🗺️ What Are the Kohunlich Ruins?
Kohunlich is a sprawling Mayan archaeological site located deep in the jungle of southern Quintana Roo. It’s known for its peaceful setting, towering temples, and the famous Temple of the Masks, featuring large stucco masks that date back over 1,500 years.
Unlike Chacchoben, Kohunlich is spread out, shaded, and much less crowded — making it ideal for travelers who want a quieter, more immersive experience.
⏱️ How Far Are the Kohunlich Ruins from Costa Maya?
The drive is about 1 hour 45 minutes each way, depending on traffic and road conditions. It’s long, but the scenery is beautiful — small towns, jungle roads, and glimpses of rural Mexico.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring something for the ride.
🧭 What You’ll See at Kohunlich
Kohunlich is a surprisingly large site, and you’ll walk through several different areas:
🌞 Temple of the Masks
The star of the site — massive stucco masks carved into the pyramid’s facade. These are incredibly well preserved and unlike anything at Chacchoben.
🌿 Residential Complexes
You’ll see courtyards, rooms, and structures that once housed elite families.
🌳 Shaded Jungle Trails
Most of the walking is shaded, which makes the heat more manageable.
⛰️ Climbable Structures
Some temples allow climbing, offering beautiful views over the jungle canopy.
🆚 Kohunlich vs. Chacchoben: Which Should You Choose?
Both are great, but they offer different experiences:
Kohunlich vs. Chacchoben
👟 Is the Kohunlich Excursion Kid‑Friendly?
Yes — but with a few caveats:
Lots of walking
Uneven steps
Very hot and humid
Long bus ride
If your kids enjoy exploring outdoors, they’ll love it. If they prefer short, easy activities, Chacchoben may be a better fit.
🆚 Kohunlich vs. Chacchoben: Which Should You Choose?
Both are great, but they offer different experiences:
FeatureKohunlichChacchobenCrowdsVery quietMore crowdedDrive time1 hr 45 min45 minShadeLots of shadeLimitedClimbingSome structuresVery limitedBest forHistory lovers, photographers, peaceful explorersFamilies, short excursions
If you want a serene, immersive ruins experience — Kohunlich wins.
Check out my review of Chaccoben -> Costa Maya Cruise Port: Ruins
🎒 What to Pack for Kohunlich
This excursion is hot, humid, and involves a lot of walking. Here’s what I recommend bringing:
Reef Neptunes or lightweight walking shoes
Athleta breathable outfits - I am obsessed with their resort and travel collection
MD Solar Sciences Sunscreen -it’s reef safe
IT Luggage daypack
Bug spray
Water bottle
Wide Brim Hat - I love my wide-brim hat from Cabana Life
These are all items I personally use and love
🛡️ Protect Your Trip
Excursions involve long drives, unpredictable weather, and tight cruise schedules. I always recommend travel insurance for delays, cancellations, and medical coverage.
Check prices with Faye Travel Insurance (affiliate).
🌡️ Tips for Visiting Kohunlich
Bring more water than you think you’ll need
Wear breathable clothing
Expect uneven steps and lots of walking
The site is very quiet — enjoy the peace
Watch for wildlife (birds, iguanas, butterflies)
The heat is real — pace yourself
⭐ Is the Kohunlich Ruins Excursion Worth It?
If you love history, nature, and quieter excursions, absolutely yes. Kohunlich feels untouched, peaceful, and deeply authentic — a perfect escape from the busy Costa Maya port.
If you want something shorter, easier, or more kid‑friendly, Chacchoben may be a better fit.
❓ Kohunlich Ruins FAQ
How long is the drive? About 1 hour 45 minutes each way.
Is Kohunlich better than Chacchoben? Kohunlich is quieter and more spread out; Chacchoben is closer and more popular.
Is the excursion safe? Yes — it’s a well‑established cruise excursion with guided tours.
Is it good for kids? Yes, but expect heat, walking, and uneven steps.
👍 Pros & Cons
Pros
Quiet and uncrowded
Beautiful jungle setting
Unique Temple of the Masks
Lots of shade
Great for photographers
Cons
Long drive
Very hot and humid
Lots of walking
Limited shade in some areas
More Cruise Resources
Planning a cruise? Explore my Cruise Hub for tips, deals, and ship reviews.
See my full cruise packing list for hot‑weather excursions like this one.
Learn how we save on excursions with the best credit cards for cruises.
Read our Sky Princess review for more on sailing
⭐ Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an excursion that feels peaceful, authentic, and completely different from the typical cruise‑port experience, the Kohunlich Mayan Ruins are absolutely worth the trip. Yes, the drive is long and the heat is real, but the quiet jungle setting, incredible history, and stunning Temple of the Masks make this one of the most memorable things you can do from Costa Maya. Whether you’re a history lover, a photographer, or just someone who wants a break from the crowds, Kohunlich delivers a truly special day ashore.
If you enjoy learning how we travel as a family using points, miles, and smart credit card strategies, I’d love for you to follow along:
