Review: Teotihuacán
Photos
Tell me: What’s this place about?
The ancient Mesoamerican pyramids of Teotihuacán, in the Valley of Mexico, once served as the largest city in the pre-Columbian Americas. It is thought that during the first millennium A.D. the city had around 125,000 people, including multi-ethnic groups such as the Otomi, Zapotec, Mixtec, Maya, and Nahua. To get to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll have to drive about an hour outside of the city.
What’s it like being there?
Awesomely grand.
Is there a guide involved?
There are guides, but I recommend exploring on your own. Once you buy admission tickets at the gate, you are basically given free range of the place. There is little touristic infrastructure—no placards, audio headsets, etc.
Did it meet expectations?
The compounds are mind-bogglingly sprawling. The pyramids have tiny steep stairs that you can use to climb to the top (hold onto the rope). No doubt, it's a challenge—especially since Mexico City is at 7,382 elevation—but the view is unparalleled.
So what, or who, do you think it’s best for?
If you have five days in Mexico City, definitely go. Leave early in the morning so you can be back in the city by mid-day. Bring sunscreen!
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