El Tajin

You can easily explore all of El Tajín’s excavated and restored buildings, pyramids, and plazas—as well as the on-site museum—in just a couple of hours. As such, El Tajín is a popular day-trip destination from Veracruz City and Boca del Río, with full-day tour options typically combining a stop at the ruins with visits to nearby attractions, such as the 13th-century "magic town" of Papantla and vanilla orchid plantations and factories.

• Wear non-slip shoes if you plan on climbing the pyramid at El Tajín.

• Signage at El Tajín is in Spanish, English, and Totomec.

• There’s little to no shade at El Tajín, so pack a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sun block.

• "Danza de los Voladores" (Dance of the Flyers) performances are held frequently throughout the day, close to the main gate.

• El Tajín may not be fully wheelchair accessible, due to uneven ground and unpaved walkways.

El Tajín is located approximately 150 miles (240 kilometers) north of Veracruz City and 6 miles (10 kilometers) west of Papantla. Buses depart daily from Veracruz City to Papantla. From there, you can take a taxi to El Tajín. Alternatively, save time and hassle and opt for an organized tour which includes round-trip transportation.

El Tajín is open seven days a week from mid-morning until the late afternoon. It’s best to arrive early or late in order to avoid the hottest points of the day at El Tajín, as the typically hot and humid site offers very few shaded areas. You can also plan your visit to coincide with the annual Cumbre Tajín Festival, which takes place each March.

The east coast state of Veracruz has plenty to offer history and culture buffs beyond El Tajín. Visit Veracruz City to learn more about the region’s Afro-Caribbean past, explore what is probably the oldest building in Mexico—the Casa de Cortés—in La Antigua, or stop by the city of Catemaco in March for the annual sorcery festival. Alternatively, visit Boca del Río in February for Carnaval festivities.