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If you have done the things to do in Mexico, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in El Tajín.
Nestled in the heart of Veracruz, El Tajín beckons travelers with the mystic allure of its ancient pyramids and the vibrant culture of its people.
A visit to this destination reveals a world where history and modernity fuse seamlessly, offering a cornucopia of activities that will leave you feeling both overwhelmed and enchanted.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in El Tajín:
1. El Tajín Archaeological Site
El Tajín Archaeological Site is an ancient Mesoamerican city located in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. It was a thriving city and major center for trade, art, and religion from around 600-1200 AD.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of temples, palaces, ball courts, pyramids, and residential areas. The site also features many intricate stone carvings, including the famous niches depicting the Mesoamerican rain god.
The on-site museum offers an in-depth look at the artifacts discovered in the area.
Don’t miss: The Pyramid of the Niches is a highlight of the site, featuring six levels topped with niches that were once adorned with sculptures.
The Ballcourt is also worth a visit, with original ballgame markers still visible.
Insider travel tips: Plan to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and heat. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site. Bring bug spray as the mosquitoes can be quite active.
2. Pyramid of the Niches
The Pyramid of the Niches is a famous Mesoamerican structure located in the ancient city of El Tajín, in Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the pyramid’s stairs to reach the top and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and archaeological site.
The pyramid is known for its distinctive architecture featuring multiple small niches in a stepped pattern.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a close look at the intricate carvings and sculptures adorning the pyramid’s sides. These include depictions of Mesoamerican deities and symbols.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit El Tajín and the Pyramid of the Niches is during the spring equinox (around March 20th) when the sun aligns perfectly with the pyramid’s niches, creating a striking visual effect.
It’s also recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and to bring comfortable shoes for climbing the steep stairs.
3. Museum of El Tajín
Archaeological museum dedicated to the culture of El Tajín.
What to see or do: Admire artifacts from the El Tajín civilization, including ceramics, stone carvings, and sculptures. Learn about the history and daily life of this ancient culture.
Don’t miss: The colossal stone figure of the god of thunder, as well as the famous Pyramid of the Niches, located in the archaeological zone adjacent to the museum.
Insider travel tips: If you visit during the spring equinox, be sure to witness the “Voladores”, a traditional ceremony where performers fly from a tall pole while playing music.
Also, check the museum’s website before visiting, as there are often temporary exhibits or events hosted here. Lastly, consider hiring a local guide to fully appreciate the significance of the artifacts and ruins.
4. Plaza Civica
An impressive archaeological site located in Papantla, Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ancient Mesoamerican ruins of El Tajín, including dozens of impressive buildings, temples, and structures.
The site is home to numerous pyramids, including the famous Pyramid of the Niches, as well as ballcourts and other important ceremonial structures.
Don’t miss: The Pyramid of the Niches is the most famous and iconic structure at El Tajín, featuring over 365 niches that align with the 365 days of the year.
Visitors should also check out the beautiful Plaza Civica while at El Tajín.
Insider travel tips: Visiting El Tajín during the spring equinox is a popular time to see the site, as the sun shines directly over the Pyramid of the Niches and creates a stunning visual effect.
Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen, as the site can be quite hot during the day. Additionally, try to arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit.
5. Ballcourt of El Tajín
The Ballcourt of El Tajín is a Mesoamerican ballgame court located in the ancient city of El Tajín, in the state of Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can observe and learn about the ancient ballgame, which was played with a rubber ball and steeped in mythology and ritual.
The court is surrounded by enigmatic reliefs and sculptures, and there is a museum nearby that explains the cultural significance of the sport.
Don’t miss: Make sure to examine the intricate carvings on either side of the court. They are believed to represent the myth of the underworld and the importance of sacrifice in Mesoamerican culture.
Insider travel tips: If you are interested in learning more about the ancient city of El Tajín, plan to spend a full day exploring the archaeological site.
Also, be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and sturdy walking shoes, as the site can be hot and dusty.
6. Totonac Papantla Flyers
The Totonac Papantla Flyers is a traditional Mexican ceremony that originated in the state of Veracruz.
The ceremony is usually performed in front of the El Tajín archeological site, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to see or do: The ceremony involves five flyers ascending a tall pole while playing music and dancing.
Once the flyers reach the top, they attach themselves to a rope and spin around the pole in a circular motion, spiraling down to the ground.
The ceremony is a sight to behold and is accompanied by traditional Totonac music, dance, and colorful costumes.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to witness this ancient ritual and take part in the festivities that surround it. It’s an incredible experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
Insider travel tips: – It’s best to visit during the annual Cumbre Tajín festival, which takes place in March and features performances by Papantla Flyers among other cultural events.
7. Templo de los Murciélagos
Templo de los Murciélagos (Temple of the Bats) is a Mesoamerican pyramid located in the archaeological site of El Tajín in Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the pyramid’s 365 steps to reach its platform and see the intricate stone carvings depicting a bat god and other figures of Mesoamerican mythology.
From the top, the views of El Tajín are fantastic.
Don’t miss: In addition to the Templo de los Murciélagos, El Tajín has other impressive structures such as the Pyramid of the Niches, the ballcourt, and the palaces.
It’s also worth watching the Papantla Flyers, a traditional ritual performance.
Insider travel tips: El Tajín is less crowded than other archaeological sites in Mexico, making it a great place to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.
The best time to visit is during the spring equinox when the sun shines on the Pyramid of the Niches, creating a stunning visual effect.
Bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water as it can get hot and humid.
8. Palacio de los 7 Patios
Palacio de los 7 Patios is a complex of ancient buildings located within the El Tajín archaeological site in Veracruz, Mexico.
It was once a palace and administrative center of the ancient Totonac civilization.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the seven patios, each with a different purpose, such as residential, sacred, administrative, and ceremonial. The intricate carvings on the walls and columns reflect the sophisticated artistry of the Totonac civilization.
Don’t miss: The Ballcourt is a highlight of the complex. It is one of the largest ballcourts found in Mesoamerica and is rumored to have been used for ritualistic games.
The carvings on the walls of the Ballcourt depict various deities and events from Totonac mythology.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the exquisite details of the carvings on the structures, it is recommended to visit Palacio de los 7 Patios during the morning or late afternoon when lighting is more favorable.
Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and water as the El Tajín site is expansive and can be hot.
9. Xanath Ecological Park
Xanath Ecological Park is a protected area and nature reserve located near the archaeological site of El Tajín in Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors to the park can explore the lush tropical forests and observe a wide variety of native flora and fauna, including several species of birds and butterflies.
There are also hiking trails that lead to stunning waterfalls and natural pools, perfect for swimming and cooling off on a hot day.
Don’t miss: One of the main highlights of the park is the Canopy Tour, an exhilarating zip line adventure that takes you soaring through the treetops and over the rushing river below.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring plenty of insect repellent and sunscreen, as the park can be quite humid and buggy. It’s also a good idea to wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing for hiking and exploring.
Consider hiring a local guide to help you navigate the park and learn more about its unique ecosystem.
10. Cempoala Archaeological Site
Cempoala Archaeological Site: Located near Veracruz, Mexico, Cempoala was a major city in the pre-Columbian era.
What to see or do: El Tajín features a stunning collection of pyramids, ballcourts, and plazas that depict the art and culture of the ancient Totonac people.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the Pyramid of the Niches, which is one of the most iconic structures of the site. The 365 niches on each terrace are believed to represent the days of the year.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the spring equinox to witness the unique effect of the sun’s rays illuminating the Pyramid of the Niches. Wear comfortable shoes as the site requires a lot of walking and climbing.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
El Tajín: Located in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, El Tajín is a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the impressive architectural and artistic achievements of the pre-Columbian era.
11. Laguna de Tamiahua
Laguna de Tamiahua is a large coastal lagoon located in the northeastern region of the Mexican state of Veracruz.
What to see or do: The lagoon is a popular destination for fishing and watersports.
Visitors can also take boat tours to explore the lagoon and its surrounding mangrove forests, which are home to a wide variety of bird and marine life.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the nearby archaeological site of El Tajín, a pre-Columbian city known for its impressive pyramids and intricate stone carvings.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re interested in fishing, be sure to check out some of the local seafood restaurants in the nearby town of Tamiahua.
12. Los Voladores de Papantla
Traditional indigenous ritual of flying known as “Los Voladores de Papantla” performed at the archaeological site of El Tajín in Mexico.
What to see or do: Witness the incredible aerial performance of the Voladores as they climb up a 30 m pole and then spin down to the ground while attached to long ropes.
Don’t miss: The synchronized music played by the drum and flute players accompanying the Voladores during their performance.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the Tajín Cumbre Tajín festival held every year in March to experience this ritual along with other traditional dances and music of Mexico.
Do not forget to bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun and bring cash for souvenirs sold by local artisans in the area.
13. Tuxpan Beach
Tuxpan Beach is a stunning white sand beach located in the city of Tuxpan, Mexico.
What to see or do: Enjoy the warm water of the Gulf of Mexico and take a swim in the crystal clear water. Take a walk along the beach and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try some delicious seafood at one of the many beachfront restaurants.
Insider travel tips: If you want a quieter experience, visit during weekdays and avoid weekends. Bring sunscreen and a hat because the sun can be very strong.
Also, it’s a great location to visit if you’re interested in exploring the nearby archeological site of El Tajín.