Becán: The Hidden Gem of Mayan Archaeology in Mexico
In contrast to the ruins of Calakmul, which might be the main point of interest of any Xpujil tourist, the ruins of Becán are much easier to be reached. The ruins of Becán are located about eight kilometers west of the small town of Xpujil and are a real hidden gem. A two-kilometer-long moat encircles the ruins to protect them from attacks, something which is quite unique in all the Mayan ruins on the Yucatan peninsula.
In this Becán Mexico travel guide, I’ll show you why these ruins are such a hidden gem near Xpujil.
TABLE OF CONTENT
Entrance to Becán Mexico and Its Unique Moat
Major Ruins of Becán Mexico – Structura IX & VIII
The entrance passageway leads to two major ruins, “Structura IX” and “Structura VIII“.
“Structura IX” is the main ruin, towering at about 32 meters, and you can climb it. The steps are uneven and steep. Fortunately, there is a rope available as a support while ascending and descending. However, the steps are quite narrow and steep, and having climbed many ruins on our trip to Mexico, I can say that this climb was by far the hardest!
Nevertheless, the view from the top is absolutely worth the effort and climbing Structura IX is one of the highlights when visiting Becán Mexico.. You can see the surrounding jungle as well as the unique architecture of the adjacent “Structura VIII”.
Structura VIII is easily identifiable by its twin-towered top, which features cylindrical columns on the upper platform.
Western Plaza of Becán Mexico
When crossing the central plaza, you will reach the western plaza where you can find “Structura X”. This structure is built on a huge platform and inside the courtyard, you can find a large overgrown tree.
The structure itself has many different levels, some of which can be climbed, and there are small doors that lead into small chambers inside. This is also a really nice place to just enjoy the views for a moment and take some photos. For me, this was the most unique and picturesque place in all of Becán, and I highly recommend visiting it.
Ball Court and Eastern Plaza of Becán Mexico
The eastern plaza is another beautiful part of Becán Mexico worth exploring slowly. If you cross the smaller court, you will reach the “Juego de Pelota” and the structures I, II, III, and IV.
The structures surround a round altar in the middle of the east plaza where they are located.
From here, you can make your way back to the entrance by going around the plaza counterclockwise and descending the stone staircase on the south side. As you do so, you’ll pass by some amazing trees. Nature truly is beautiful!
Here are a few practical tips to help you plan your visit to Becán Mexico. More information can also be found here on the INAH website.
Opening Hours for Visiting Becán Mexico
How Much Time to Plan for Becán
Admission Fee for Visiting Becán Mexico
Where to stay, when visiting Becán
The closest city to Becán is Xpujil, which is a small town with some tourist infrastructure, such as hotels and restaurants. We would recommend staying at the Hotel “Maya Balam.” While it is a simple hotel, it is clean and located a little off from the main street. Xpujil is the best base when visiting Becán Mexico as it is loctaed right next to the city.
