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Archaeological site · Izamal, Yucatán
Pirámide de Kinich Kak Mo
One of the largest pyramids by volume on the Yucatán Peninsula, in the middle of Izamal, dedicated to the sun god with the face of a fire macaw.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pirámide de Kinich Kak Mo
Kinich Kak Mo is a few blocks from the convent, amid the houses of Izamal. By volume, it is one of the largest pyramids on the Yucatán Peninsula, with a base of about 200 by 180 meters and a structure at the top of roughly 34 meters. The name refers to the sun god with the face of a fire macaw, to whom the Maya city was dedicated.
Izamal was a major Maya religious and pilgrimage center, linked by stone roads to other cities. The pyramids were built mainly between AD 400 and 600. Many were dismantled by the Spanish, and Kinich Kak Mo is the best preserved.
The ascent, via a side staircase to the platform and then stone steps to the summit, is usually allowed. From the top you can see the yellow town, the convent and the Yucatán plain to the horizon.
Entry is usually free, and visits are typically self-guided.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour.
Best time
In the late afternoon, to see the town and the convent from above in the low light. Confirm schedules before you go.
How to get there
It is about three blocks north of the convent, in the center of Izamal. You can reach it on foot.
Tip
Wear shoes with good grip; the stone steps are high and uneven.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pirámide de Kinich Kak Mo
Is the Kinich Kak Mo pyramid in the center of Izamal?
Yes, about three blocks from the convent.
Can you climb Kinich Kak Mo?
The ascent is usually permitted via a side staircase.
What does Kinich Kak Mo mean?
It refers to the sun god with the face of a fire macaw.