Guide To Monte Alban Archaeological Park

About Monte Alban

In the magnificent state of Oaxaca, just outside the stunning colonial town of Oaxaca City lie two magnificent archaeological sites: Monte Alban, and nearby Mitla.   You can discover them both with Mexperience.

Monte Alban: Perched between two lush valleys, which had inhabitants as far back as 2000 BC, is Monte Alban (meaning White Mountain). The mountain is also host to one of Mexico's most famous archaeological wonders: The ruins of the ancient capital city of Monte Alban.

The top of the mountain was leveled and upon the land the people here built a great city - the ruins of which you can see today. The views from this archaeological site are stunning.

This archaeological wonder is just a short trip outside of Oaxaca city and should be part of any itinerary should you plan to travel in this part of Mexico.

Many artefacts and treasures found on Monte Alban can now be seen at the Museo de Oaxaca - connect to Oaxaca with Mexperience for more information about this.

Buses travel frequently to Monte Alban from Oaxaca, or if you prefer you can travel on a guided tour.

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Key Attractions

Your experience of Monte Alban should start at La Gran Plaza (Great Plaza), which is about 60,000 square meters in size and marks the centre of Monte Alban.

The Plataforma Norte (North Platform) is nearly as large as the Grand Plaza, and is host to a ceremonial area, including an altar.

There are several tombs, most of which are closed, with the exception of Tomb No. 104 whose interior walls are painted with colorful frescoes.

Other attractions at Monte Alban include the Juego de Pelota (Games Court), which is slightly different to the ball courts at other sites in the area; El Palacio (The Palace) with its patio at the top and the Plataforma Sur (South Platform) which features an attractive staircase and surrenders an excellent panoramic view of the main Plaza.

Guidebooks

For further details about the attractions at this archaeological site, consult one of the mainstream Guidebooks, available via the Mexperience Bookshelf, or consult the local tourist office (see Practical Information below).

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Getting There & Around

Monte Alban is located just 6 miles outside of Oaxaca and can be reached by car or by local bus or a guided tour.

By Air - The closest airport is Oaxaca City

By Car - Take a road named "Trujano", which leads out of town and onto the road to Monte Alban, about 6 miles away.  Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico's Toll Roads on Mexperience.

By Bus - Regular buses make the trip from Oaxaca all day, every day.

Organized Tours to Monte Alban are also available from Oaxaca City.

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Practical Information

Opening Days & Times: Tuesday-Sunday 9 am to 5 pm. Admission used to be free for everybody on Sundays, but this rule was changed in February 2003; now only Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency) can enter free. All children under 13 and those over 60 can still enter free of charge.

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Travel Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with a non-slip sole. Dress with light clothing that allows your skin to breathe.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical cover and/or travel assistance cover when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Tourist Information Office: Connect to the Mexperience Travel Center for details of the nearest Tourist Information office.

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Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (closest)

Colonial Cities: Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Huatulco, Puerto Escondido, Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen

Other Archaeological Sites: Mitla, Chichen Itza, Coba, Uxmal, and Tulum

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Local Climate

Monte Alban is hot and humid. Dress with light clothes that enable your skin to breathe. Bring sun cream, insect repellent and a hat. Take and drink plenty of water at all times.

Live Weather Report: (Oaxaca)

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