El Rey Archaeological Zone (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is El Rey Archaeological Zone?
What makes it 74% Kids-Friendly: Older children enjoy free entry, iguana feeding, and climbing the low platform, while flat paths aid supervision. Sparse shade, no play area, and only basic toilets shorten family comfort.
Positives:
- Free entry for kids: Children under 13 enter at no charge.
- Shaded rest spots: Trees along the path offer cool breaks from the sun.
- Easy walking route: Flat paths are suitable for strollers or slow walkers.
Challenges:
- Uneven surfaces: Some walkways have stones and roots; supervise toddlers closely.
- No onsite food: Food and drinks are not allowed inside; bring your own supplies.
- Minimal baby facilities: No dedicated nursing or changing rooms; pack portable changing essentials.
What is El Rey Archaeological Zone?
- A Mayan archaeological site in Cancun preserving the ruins of a coastal settlement dating to circa 250 A.D.
- A complex of 47 limestone structures, including a small pyramidal temple crowned by a sculpted Head of the King motif
- An open-air ceremonial center integrated into lush vegetation, featuring platforms, residential structures and traces of ancient murals
What is so special about El Rey Archaeological Zone for with kids?
- Kids feed friendly wild iguanas safely
- Children under 13 enter free
- Low-risk climb on pyramid platform
- Short shaded trail easy for families
- Hands-on introduction to Mayan history
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to climb the pyramid, watch iguanas, and rest without rushing younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in El Rey Archaeological Zone
Feed the iguanas:
Spot wild iguanas on steps and walls near the entrance.
Tip: Buy a small bag of grapes from a vendor (MXN 20) so kids can feed them safely.
Climb the pyramid platform:
Scramble up the low Mayan platform for views of palms and ruins.
Tip: Hold younger children’s hands and wear closed shoes for better footing.
Join a kid-focused guided tour:
Book a local guide who uses simple stories and games to explain history.
Tip: Reserve in advance; cost starts at US$20 per hour.
Explore faded murals:
Look for faint Mayan paint fragments on building walls.
Tip: Download a free audio guide app or bring a guidebook for simple explanations.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to El Rey Archaeological Zone
- Arrive at opening: Get there at 08:00 to beat crowds and midday heat.
- Bring sun protection: Pack hats, sunscreen and at least 1 L of water per person.
- Book guides early: Reserve a child-friendly guide before your visit to secure your spot.
Reviews of El Rey Archaeological Zone
Jen HJ Jang
Peaceful and serene place in hotel zone. We visited on a windy cloudy morning and the whole place was almost for us. We stayed in a nearby hotel so it was little effort but unexpected great experience to walk in the ruins aprt from the noisy hotel area. The entrance fee was 145 pesos per person which was far different from the official website, likely it got increased recently. Overall, still wort...
dawn of the dread uk
We done a city tour and this was one of the stops. Our tour guide litterally stopped here for 20 mins. Would have loved to stay longer and have a proper look around. If you wanna come here avoid the city tour and book it seperatly
Justin Rempel
Clean bathrooms. Nice quiet place to observe a neat historic landmark. Not as impressive as other ruins but for the distance from the hotel zone, you can't beat it. There are a lot of iguanas.
Celeste Melody
Peaceful place to walk and see old ruins and lots of iguanas. Reasonable fee. The entrance had garbage piles and stank. But the ruins were kept nice with mowed paths.
Lindsey Skees
Just down the street from our hotel NYX & a quick Uber ride! Only 75 pesos per person to enter but BEWARE of the mosquitos - BRING BUG SPRAY!! They also warn you before entering. My husband & I enjoyed the stroll through the ruins but there is only one sign - not a lot of information, doesn't take long to walk through but still cool to see all the Mayan history!!
When is the best time to visit El Rey Archaeological Zone (Cancun, Mexico)?
Visit in early morning to avoid midday heat and afternoon showers during May–October; pack a light rain poncho if visiting in rainy season.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult tickets (2 x MXN 145) | MXN 290 |
| Bag of grapes for iguanas | MXN 20 |
| Water bottles and snacks | MXN 50 |
| Total Estimated | MXN 360 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of El Rey Archaeological Zone
Address: Hotel Zone, 77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico
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About El Rey Archaeological Zone
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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