Plizio Visual Lab

Mixco Viejo

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

Mixco Viejo is an archaeological site in the Chimaltenango department that served as the capital of the Pocomam Maya kingdom during the Postclassic period. The city is situated on an isolated plateau surrounded by deep ravines, providing it with a formidable natural defense. Originally known as Saqik'ajol Nimakaqapek, it functioned primarily as a military fortress to control the surrounding valleys. The archaeological zone contains over 120 structures, including temple pyramids, residential palaces, and two ball courts, all reflecting the architectural style of the late Postclassic era. Historically, Mixco Viejo is famous for its fierce resistance against Spanish colonizers; Pedro de Alvarado's forces only managed to capture the city in 1525 after a lengthy siege. Following its fall, the surviving population was forcibly relocated, and the fortress-city was left to ruin.

Location: Guatemala
Nearby: Iztapa (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	16	18	19	21	21	20	19	19	19	18	17	16
Rain mm	13	11	18	43	154	225	165	218	256	190	48	16

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Mixco Viejo is an archaeological site that can be visited for a small fee. The ruins are largely excavated and walkable.

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Typical hours

The site is typically open Tuesday through Sunday late morning. Mondays are usually closed, and access may be restricted on holidays.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the site for personal use. Commercial photography requires a permit from the Ministry of Culture.

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Time needed

A walk around the site takes about one and a half to two hours. Those wanting to climb the surrounding hills should allow more time.

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Combine with

The site is near San Martín Jilotepeque, which can also be visited. The capital, Guatemala City, is only an hour away.

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Getting there

Mixco Viejo is accessible by car, with the last stretch on an unpaved road. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially in the rainy season.

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Insider tip

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as there is little shade on the site. Wear sturdy shoes for the climb to the temples.

History & landmarks

1525

Geography

Coordinates

14.87190, -90.66280

Facts

The city was the political capital of the Pocomam Maya kingdom.
Over 120 archaeological structures have been identified on the site.
Spanish forces captured the fortress in the year 1525.
Its original Maya name was Saqik'ajol Nimakaqapek.
The site features two distinct ball courts for ceremonial games.
The plateau is surrounded by ravines over 100 meters deep.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Laguna LachuA Family Lagoon1 km · WExplore →

Santiago Sacatepéquez2 km · SExplore →

Cubulco3 km · NExplore →

Central Highlands4 km · SExplore →

Mixco6 km · NExplore →

Cerro Cucurucho6 km · SExplore →

Port of Seybaplaya7 km · SWExplore →

Santa Catalina Arch8 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Mixco Viejo crowded?

No, it is a low-key spot and usually very quiet.

What is the architecture like?

It shows the Pocomam Maya architectural style on fortified hills.

Is there good hiking there?

There are paths between the temple groups, well-suited for small explorations.

Do you need a guide?

A local guide is informative, but not mandatory.

How long does the visit take?

One to two hours are more than enough for a thorough visit.

Mixco Viejo: where is it located?

Mixco Viejo is located in Guatemala.

Mixco Viejo: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.

Mixco Viejo: why is it worth visiting?

Mixco Viejo is an archaeological site in the Chimaltenango department that served as the capital of the Pocomam Maya kingdom during the Postclassic period.

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