Plizio Visual Lab

Kabah

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

Kabah is a prominent Maya archaeological site located in the Puuc region of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, south of the larger city of Uxmal. The city flourished during the Late Classic period between the 7th and 10th centuries AD, serving as a vital political and religious hub. It is world-renowned for its Codz Poop, or Palace of Masks, a monumental structure whose facade is adorned with nearly three hundred stone carvings of the rain god Chaac. A ceremonial causeway known as a sacbe, stretching eighteen kilometers, physically linked Kabah to Uxmal, indicating a close relationship between the two urban centers. As the Puuc region lacks cenotes or rivers, the inhabitants relied on sophisticated underground cisterns called chultunes to store rainwater for the dry season. Today, Kabah is a central stop on the Ruta Puuc, showcasing the intricate mosaic stonework and advanced hydraulic engineering that defined this unique period of Maya history.

Location: Mexico
Top sights: Museo de las momias · Stela 9 · Grupo 3

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	23	25	27	29	30	28	27	27	27	26	24	24
Rain mm	36	31	23	34	92	200	143	170	212	136	57	36

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Maya ruins of Kabah are open to the public. Visitors can view the Palace of the Masks facade and other structures outdoors.

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Typical hours

The site is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it is recommended to check exact times beforehand. Access may be limited on holidays.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the site. Use morning or afternoon sunlight for the best shots of the mask facade.

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Time needed

Allow about one hour to see the main attractions like the Palace of the Masks and the Arch. The site is manageable.

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Combine with

Kabah is near the more famous site of Uxmal; combine your visit with Uxmal and other Puuc ruins. The city of Mérida is also a day trip away.

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Getting there

Kabah is about 100 km south of Mérida on Federal Highway 261. A rental car or guided tour are the best options to get there.

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Insider tip

Go early to beat the heat and bring insect repellent. Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is uneven.

Geography

Coordinates

20.25000, -89.65000

Facts

The city reached its cultural and political peak between 600 and 1000 AD.
The name Kabah translates to 'The Strong Hand' or 'Lord of the Strong Hand' in Maya.
The Codz Poop palace features approximately 260 stone masks of the rain god Chaac.
An 18-kilometer long sacbe (ceremonial road) connects Kabah directly to Uxmal.
Inhabitants built deep underground cisterns called chultunes to store essential rainwater.
The site was documented in detail by explorers Stephens and Catherwood in 1843.