Guide To Tenam Puente Archaeological Park

About Tenam Puente

Set on a wooded hillside with good views of the surrounding area from its highest points, Tenam Puente, like nearby Chinkultic, was probably a western outpost during the height of the Maya civilization, dating back to the same period as its neighbor, 600AD.

Tenam Puente is derived from the Nauhua meaning "fort" or "fortified place"; The area covers about 2 square kilometers (about one and a quarter square miles) and was an ancient civic ceremonial center.

The most important group of buildings are the Acropolis, at the highest point of this site, offering good views across the area. The Acropolis buildings are built around a series of patios and plazas, conforming with other similar Maya architectures.

Although the site dates back to 600AD, evidence suggests that it was occupied during the early post classic period (900-1200AD), after which it was abandoned; the reasons for which are still unclear.

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Key Attractions

It will take you about two hours to see the buildings and enjoy the sights from the highest buildings in Tenam Puente.

As you enter the site, there is a large, open expanse of land - today it has been grassed over - and within this you'll see some of the ballparks and ancient ruins of Tenam Puente.

Walking past the large open area in the middle, you reach what looks from a distance like a brick wall; it is in fact a steep pyramid like structure that acts as a staircase to the site's next level.

Once at the top, you'll find yourself under the cover of trees which gives respite from the heat and intensity of the sun. The site's two main buildings and temple are up here. Climbing to the top of the largest structure will give you excellent views of the surrounding landscape and other buildings on the site.

Guidebooks

All of the Mainstream Guidebooks give detailed information about attractions at Tenam Puente. Find a guidebook on the Mexperience Bookshelf

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Getting There & Around

To get to Chinkultic from Comitan, follow highway 190 for about 10 Km. There are no regular buses traveling here,

Taxi - It's an easy and relatively inexpensive taxi ride from Comitan; for a tip the taxi driver will wait while you enjoy the site and take you back to Comitan afterwards.

Tours - Local tours operators include Tenam Puente as part of some of their locally arranged itineraries. Check with local agents for current details in Comitan and San Cristobal.

Car Rental - To experience this area at your own pace with the freedom and independence to see precisely what you want, the best advice is to rent a car locally. Public transport is available but very scarce around here. See the Mexperience Travel Center for Car Rental in Tuxtla Gutierrez / San Cristobal.

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Practical Information

Opening Days & Times: 7 Days a week; 8 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: You'll need a good, comfortable pair of walking shoes with a non-slip sole. Wear light clothes - it gets very hot and humid here. Insect repellent is also very useful as this site is located in the jungle. See Climate, below.

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: Comitan, Tuxtla Gutierrez, San Cristobal de las Casas, Villahermosa, Oaxaca

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

Other Archaeological Sites Nearby: Palenque, Chinkultic, Yaxchilan, Bonampak

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Local Climate

The Local Climate is similar to nearby Comitan. The lake district enjoys a temperate climate and clean, fresh mountain air. Evenings can be cool, as can winter months - so pack some warmer clothes in case the weather becomes unsettled; which can happen around here. Rain can also be a feature, so pack a waterproof overcoat and hat.

Live Weather Report: (Comitan)

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