Cuicuilco Archaeological Zone Tours and Activities

Choose two or more items and save on your trip:
Explore this important archeological site that has ruins that date back hundreds of years and offers a unique glimpse into an ancient civilization.

Cuicuilco is one of Mexico’s most ancient sites. Take the short trip out of town to see the circular pyramid, which was partially buried by a volcanic eruption and is set amid a nature preserve.

Cuicuilco was once home to as many as 20,000 people, but when a volcano erupted in about A.D. 400, it covered the area in lava and forced the population to disperse. It has remained uninhabited ever since.

The focal point of the ruins is the Piramide de Cuicuilco, a circular structure in the center of the hill. Standing at 18 meters (59 feet) tall and containing five stories, the pyramid is impressive even today. Used as a ceremonial and religious structure during the Mesoamerican era, it remains beautifully preserved.

Cuicuilco is also a nature reserve, so bring a lunch and enjoy stunning views of nearby Mexico City from the top of the hill. This view is popular with tourists and locals alike. Thousands of visitors make a pilgrimage at the Spring Equinox to watch the sunrise, which is traditionally believed to provide spiritual awakening.

On your way back into Mexico City, be sure to take a look at the Museo Arqueológico Cuicuilco, which is located on Avenida de los Insurgentes. It contains some of the unique artifacts that were uncovered in Cuicuilco, ranging from pottery to jewelry to tools. It also provides historical context on this rare religious area and is a good way to further understand its significance.

Cuicuilco is located 12 miles south of downtown Mexico City’s. Visitors can take the subway to Ciudad and catch a bus or cab to the ancient ruins, or simply take a cab from downtown. It is easy to spend the entire afternoon at Cuicuilco. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and prepare to be outdoors for most of the day.

Plan a trip to see Cuicuilco Archaeological Zone

Histórico Central Boutique Hotel
Zocalo Central & Rooftop Mexico City
Hotel Canada
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 14 activitiesOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Cuicuilco Archaeological Zone

Suites Perisur Apartamentos Amueblados
Suites Perisur Apartamentos Amueblados
4 out of 5
Calle Alba No. 15, Col. Insurgentes Cuicuilco, Mexico City, CDMX
Suites Perisur Apartamentos Amueblados
Radisson Paraiso Hotel Mexico City
Radisson Paraiso Hotel Mexico City
4 out of 5
Cuspide 53 Col Parques, Mexico City
Radisson Paraiso Hotel Mexico City
Royal Pedregal Hotel
Royal Pedregal Hotel
3.5 out of 5
Periferico Sur 4363, Mexico City, CDMX
Royal Pedregal Hotel
Fiesta Inn Periferico Sur
Fiesta Inn Periferico Sur
3.5 out of 5
Periferico Sur 5530, Col. Pedregal de Carrasco, Mexico City, CDMX
Fiesta Inn Periferico Sur
One Ciudad de México Periférico Sur
One Ciudad de México Periférico Sur
3 out of 5
Periferico Sur 5530, Col. Pedregal de Carrasco, Mexico City, CDMX
One Ciudad de México Periférico Sur
Aztic Hotel & Suites Ejecutivas
Aztic Hotel & Suites Ejecutivas
3 out of 5
Mexico City
Aztic Hotel & Suites Ejecutivas
La Casa Azul
La Casa Azul
2.5 out of 5
Vasco de Quiroga 208, Belisario Domínguez Secc 16, Tlalpan, Mexico City
La Casa Azul
City Express Plus by Marriott Periferico Sur Tlalpan
City Express Plus by Marriott Periferico Sur Tlalpan
3 out of 5
Blvd Adolfo Ruiz Cortines No. 4860, Col. Guadalupe, Mexico City, CDMX
City Express Plus by Marriott Periferico Sur Tlalpan
Camino Real Pedregal Mexico
Camino Real Pedregal Mexico
4 out of 5
Periferico Sur No. 3647, Col. Héroes de Padierna, Mexico City
Camino Real Pedregal Mexico
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.