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Home » When Is The Best Time to Visit Teotihuacan?

When Is The Best Time to Visit Teotihuacan?

It was once among the largestand most populated cities around the globe. However, now the monuments of the pyramids are all that remain of the ancient city of Teotihuacan situated in Mexico.

It is situated close to the modern-day Mexico City, the pyramids of Teotihuacan are located close to Mexico City. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that must be on every tourist’s bucket list. The larger pyramids are still climbable, providing breathtaking views from the summit of these ancient works of engineering.

It’s an interesting place to discover, and also to help you plan your journey, here’s our guides to Teotihuacan!

A An Introduction to the Teotihuacan Pyramids

Teotihuacan within Mexico is an integral part of its history, in the end, it’s an archaeological site! So it’s good to prepare yourself with a little historical knowledge before you visit Teotihuacan.

The remains of Teotihuacan and the remains of the Teotihuacan pyramids are all that remain of what was once the most strong city in Mesoamerica. The city isn’t just prehistoric, but it also predates the Aztecs who were the power to be taken seriously when Europeans arrived in the 1500s.

Teotihuacan was founded in the 1st century AD and the city expanded to become the largest city in the region. It was a hub for the arts, culture and civilization in the Teotihuacan Valley and had great influence over the remainder of the region. The city came to be one of the most populated worldwide, having been the home to thousands of residents. The pyramids that you see today were built (primarily because of religious motives) at the peak of the city’s power. In the seventh century A.D., Teotihuacan was slowly being abandoned due to unknown reasons (at simultaneously, other Mayan cities in the south were getting abandoned).

The remains of the city and the pyramids were a source of influence for many centuries to come but. The Aztecs who arrived to build their capital city Tenochtitlan towards South (where Mexico City stands today) also made pilgrimages to temples. The name Teotihuacan is said to mean “Birthplace for Gods.” Gods” from the native Aztec dialect.

After the Spanish defeat the pyramids fell into disrepair, and then archaeological work was started a few centuries afterward. There’s now a renewed appreciation for Teotihuacan and it’s among of the most well-preserved examples pre-Hispanic ruins in Mexico.

The Best time to visit Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is best visited during the winter, spring or in the spring and summer months. The most favorable months to visit Teotihuacan are from November to May as the weather remains dry and temperatures cool.

Since the elevation at Teotihuacan at 2,300m (7,500 feet) which means that winters in the area are often quite cold even though it’s located at the heart of Central Mexico. Winter is an excellent time for beating the crowds, however (except during Christmas) and if you’re not used to extreme temperatures, it’s the perfect time to explore without overheating.

In spring, the sun is shining and temperatures begin to climb However, the number of tourists is picking up, too. Summer can be extremely humid and the weather is characterised by a continuous rain (not a good time to be out in the sun, going to The Pyramids).

No matter what time of year that you visit it is a good idea to make a plan to Teotihuacan in the middle of the week. The pyramids of Teotihuacan are in close proximity to Mexico City, and on weekends, they can be very busy.

Teotihuacan is located to the north of Mexico City; around 50 kilometers (nearly 32 miles) from the city center. Tours to Teotihuacan begin every day of the year. It’s accessible for a day trip from the capital.

Recommendation: We highly recommend this Teotihuacan day tour from Mexico City. With this tour in the early morning you will avoid the crowds and explore this amazing archaeological site right as it opens its doors for the rest of the day. Explore its various monuments, plazas, and murals peacefully, with a magical and mystical atmosphere that will provide you with to experience the true essence of this great city of old Mexico.

There are plenty of organized tours and reasonably easy to catch the tourist bus that goes to the ruins (even when it’s your first time using public transport throughout Mexico). Public buses run frequently (every one minute or as often) in the terminal of Autobuses del Norte, Mexico City’s most important north-facing bus terminus.

The bus terminal is home to an own station for metro (Autobuses of Del Norte Metro) which is on the Yellow Line (Line 5). You can buy one ticket to ride the metro or opt for the metro’s pre-paid card. It is a bargain to ride the metro for just five dollars per ride.

You can cut down on a lot of time by using an Uber on the way to the stop, but. They are safe, easy to reserve via the app, and a surprising value. When you arrive at the terminal, you’ll see notices on the counters that advertise the bus that will take you to Teotihuacan (complete with images of the pyramids, to make things easier). Simply queue up and hop on the next bus.

The journey can be as short than 45 mins from the terminal dependent on the how busy. There are several entry points and exits into the pyramid complex, but just take the first stop before the pyramids (Gate 1). Get your ticket for entry (a moderately priced 80 pesos for a one-day ticket) and start exploring.

When you return it is possible to catch the bus again from another exit, rather than walking all the way back to where you began. Buses are available throughout the whole day (the Pyramids remain open between 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.).

Of course, you could rent a vehicle and drive to Teotihuacan!

How Long Do I Have to Stay in Teotihuacan?

You can easily visit Teotihuacan in one day trip from Mexico City, but with all the transport and waiting times you can expect to stay for the entire day at.

At the pyramids of Teotihuacan in Teotihuacan, you’ll require at minimum three to four hours to take in all the attractions. This includes walking between the pyramids, a bit of time at the museum and numerous breaks to eat refreshments or lunch.

Can I Stay the Night at Teotihuacan?

You’re not able to stay overnight in the pyramids itself, however, you are able to spend the night in the nearby town. It’s just about walking distance from the pyramids towards the middle and there’s a variety of hotels available for booking.

It’s not necessary to stay overnight however, it could mean you’ll be able to get up early to see the pyramids, take in the sunset, or opt for a sunrise hot air balloon flight.

Top Things to do in Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is spread out after many miles, so be prepared to walk throughout the day. You can also hire bikes at the entrance if you prefer. If you have your own car, you can drive around the edge of the park and park it in different locations However, you’ll still have to do a lot of walking both in and out.

As we’ve mentioned before, it’s easier to use the bus. You can get off at the first entry point and pick up the return journey at the end of the entrance (start by The Temple of Quetzalcoatl by Gate 1 and end at in the Pyramid of the Moon by Gate 3).

With this in mind with that in mind, here are the top things to see and do during the Teotihuacan tour.

1. Temple of Quetzalcoatl

The Temple of Quetzalcoatl (also known as the Temple of the Feathered Serpent) is the third largest pyramid at Teotihuacan. It’s situated near Gate 1 and therefore is frequently the first site to be visited by day-trippers.

It’s not as imposing as other pyramids that you be able to see from a distance, however, it is full of historical significance Some of it dark. Mass graves have been discovered in the vicinity of the pyramid. Hidden underground tunnels are beneath the temple, and it is within the city walls – more than outside, as the other temples do.

2. Avenue of the Dead

The Avenue of the Dead is 2.5 kilometers (about 1.5 miles) long and extends starting from towards the Temple of Quetzalcoatl in a perfectly straight line until it reaches the Pyramid of the Moon.

The principal thoroughfare of Teotihuacan’s city and is called because it could be the path taken by those who would die on the pyramids.

The route will take you along the avenue throughout your journey stopping off at the temples and other sights along the way.

3. Pyramid of the Sun

The Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacan is located along the Avenue of the Dead, between the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramid of the Moon. This is the largest pyramid in the city as well as the most iconic and easily recognized.

It’s also the pyramid that everyone climbs to reach the top, therefore be prepared for a long slog to the top of the stairs. It’s worth the effort cost because of the stunning views (and all 360°).

The pyramid is an impressive engineering achievement. It is believed to be built around 200 A.D. and rises up to 65 meters (about 213 feet) in height. This makes it the third largest stone structure ever built, anywhere in the world.

4. Pyramid of the Moon

The Pyramid of the Moon is located at the far point of the Avenue of the Dead, at the point where the road ends. The pyramid measures 43 meters (about 142 feet) in height. It has seven distinct layers that lead to the top.

It’s believed that the pyramid was a major site of ritual sacrifices and religious ceremonies because graves of many people were discovered around the base, and even within the pyramid’s layers it self.

5. Palace of Quetzalpapalotl

Then, at the foot of the Pyramid of the Moon, you can wander through the excavated ruins of Quetzalpapalotl’s Palace. Palace of Quetzalpapalotl.

Here you can find extensive murals that have been painstakingly restored, and which demonstrate the ability to create art developed in the pre-Hispanic world.

The precise function of the palace is unclear, but it could have served as the residence of a high-ranking priest, given the temple’s proximity.

6. Teotihuacan Museum

The small Teotihuacan Museum gives a glimpse into the history and archaeology surrounding the pyramids and the city’s ancient past.

There are artifacts as well as brief descriptions, along with models demonstrating how the city looked in centuries back. It’s lacking in much depth however, it can help to visualize the city as an entire.

7. Hot Air Balloon Cruise

A most thrilling ways to experience Teotihuacan is to take an air balloon ride across the pyramids. It is possible to schedule these flights ahead of time, and as with most hot air balloon rides it is best to experience them at sunrise.

From the sky, you’ll be able to get a bird’s eye perspective of the entire complex and the surrounding valley, which really puts the size and scope of the city into sharp perspective.

Tips for Visiting Teotihuacan

1. Visit the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City First

There’s not much of information about the pyramids when you’re walking around in the area, so it’s an excellent idea to check out the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City before you travel to Teotihuacan.

The Museum of Anthropology is one of the largest museums in the world, and it has a wealth of information on the history of Teotihuacan and the civilization that built the pyramids.

The museum covers a lot of known periods that are part of Mexican history, and you’ll be able to begin to piece the history together and understand how the pyramids fit into the timeline.

2. Be Early to Leave, but Not Too Early

If you’re heading to Mexico City you’ll need to depart early to have a full day of sightseeing. But, it is important to be aware of the rush hour that is prevalent in the city. This is the case for travelers via the metro, car or Uber!

The rush hours in Mexico City are famous, and that the metro system is crowded (literally overflowing) and the streets are filled with traffic.

Make sure to begin your journey at 9 a.m. to miss the worst of rush hours throughout the metropolis. You’ll still have more than enough time to visit the pyramids and get back again before the evening rush.

Recommendation: When you book tours, you don’t need to fret about finding the right bus or rush hour traffic. Plus, you get to stroll around with a knowledgeable guide who can explain everything you need to know about the past of this important city pre-Hispanic. Day tours are inexpensive and will take the stress from your visit to and from the Teotihuacan Pyramids.

3. Take a Hat and Sunscreen

There’s no shade at all once you’re inside of the pyramid complex (except at the museums) because everything is so vastly open.

During the climb to the top of the pyramids as well as the walk through the Avenue of the Dead, you’ll always be in the sun. Therefore, wear a sun hat and wear sunscreen, even in winter.

4. Begin with a Guided Tour of the Pyramids

While you can walk around the park on your own with a guide, having a dedicated Teotihuacan guide will make the experience more real.

If you didn’t book onto the guided tour prior to your visit You can also hire the assistance of an local guide to Teotihuacan at the entrance.

Prices are reasonable, and you’ll leave those pyramids at Teotihuacan with a deeper knowledge of their significance than when you arrived.

These pyramids at Teotihuacan are one of the most impressive archeological sites in the world that should be visited by anyone traveling on their way to Mexico City. The prehistoric ruins have stood the test of time, and offer an insightful look into the diverse cultures that were ablaze and sunk long before Europeans came to Mexican shores. It’s a great day excursion to Mexico City!