Hormiguero Archeological Zone
Address:
Xpujil, Mexico
Description:
While Xpujil, Becan, Chicanna, and Calakmul are the most popular sites to visit in south-central Campeche, Hormiguero Archeological Zone is worth a visit if your want to experience Mayan ruins with no one else around. Hormiguero, which means "ant hill" in Maya, is a heavily forested site subdivided into three groups of structures – South, Central, and North.Hormiguero thrived between 600-800 AD, during the late Classic period, and was explored by Karl Ruppert and John Dennison in April 1933. The site's main attaction is Structure II of the South Group, which is dominated by a Chenes-style mask entrance depicting the creator god Itzamná. Through his gaping jaw one enters the building – and symbolically – the Mayan underworld, Xibalba. Structure II's façade is graced by the twin towers common here in the Rio Bec area: they are fronted by false exterior stairways (and hide secret interior ones).
On the Map: Hormiguero Archeological Zone is located at 18.405138N, Longitude: 89.491695W.
How To Get There: Hormiguero Archeological Zone is located 25 km south of Xpujil. Drive south past the public market stalls and continue until you see the signs for the site and turn right. You can also visit Hormiguero by engaging a guide and transportation or hiring a taxi for several hours at the bus station in Xpujil.
Need to Know: The access road can be muddy, rutted, or dusty (and always potholed) depending on the time of year. A 4WD high clearance vehicle has the best chance of navigating it, but regular rental cars can make it when the road is in good condition.
Hours of Operation: Open to the public daily, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. No prior permission needed. Admission: Free.
Services: restrooms
Where to Stay: Rio Bec Dreams, Chicanna Ecovillage Resort
Tour Guide: Diane Lalonde, Rio Bec Dreams Provides transportation, guide service, and lunch.
Tour Guide: Nico Feldmann, Kaan Expeditions Email: info@kaanexpeditions.com. Website: www.kaanexpeditions.com. Mexico City Tel: 555-451-5793. Campeche Tel: 983-119-6152 Provides transportation, guide service, and lunch.
INAH Campeche: Director: C. Lirio Guadalupe Suárez Amendola Address: Calle 59 No. 36 between 14 and 16, Col. Centro, CAMPECHE / CAMPECHE, CP 24000, Mexico Tel: 01-98-18-16-81-79 DIRECTO/ 01-98-18-16-91-11/ 01-98-18-11-13-14 DEPTO. M.H./ 01-98-18-16-24-60 FAX Email: direccion.camp@inah.gob.mx
