Monte Alban was the old city of the Zapotec Indians. And one of the first major cities in Mexico! Today, Monte Alban is a beautiful and interesting archaeological site, and perfect for a half-day visit from Oaxaca City.
Monte Alban is the most important and most popular archaeological site of Oaxaca. The site is located just outside a 20-minute ride from the city center of Oaxaca. It lies on a hill south-west from the city, towering 500 meters above Oaxaca. It a perfect trip whenever you are in the region. We´ll tell you everything you need to know!
A brief history of Monte Alban
Monte Alban is the most important archaeological site of Oaxaca and one of the first major cities in Mexico! The city was built by the Zapotec, a pre-Columbian culture probably descended from the Olmecs, the oldest and one of the first Mexican civilizations. The construction of Monte Albán probably started around 200 BC.
The strategic choice was made to build Monte Alban on top of a mountain. Until 800 AD. the city was the religious, political, and economic center of the Zapotec Empire. Most of the temples and pyramids were built during the heyday, between 300 and 700 AD. At its peak, around 30,000 people are said to have lived in Monte Alban.
For unclear reasons, the city fell into disrepair and the Mixtec Indians made their appearance. They rebuilt the city according to their culture and used the city as an important burial ground for their elite. But they too have left the city for unclear reasons…
The city was discovered in an abandoned state by the Spaniards. Today, you see a clear combination of styles from these different realms. And archaeological research is still being done in this old city.
Visit the Ruins of Monte Alban
Gran Plaza | This is the main square with an altar and an observatory. Loved here. This is where the ceremonies and sacrifices probably took place.
Los Danzantes | There is a collection of large carved stones on the complex. They are all unique but appear to portray a naked dancing man. They were made in the period 500-100 BC and their meaning is still unclear.
Ballcourt | The ball court is very narrow compared to the ball court on Chichen Itza.
North Plaza & South Plaza | To our surprise you could climb many ruins. This is prohibited at most ruins in Mexico, so this was quite special. Just make sure to do this with caution. The ruins are very steep (!) and unsuitable to climb for people who are not fit. We liked the stunning view from these 2 platforms because it provided an overview of the complex.
Tumba 7 | Around the entrance, you will find several burial vaults. In particular, in the tomb of Tumba 7 immense treasures were found. These treasures are on display in the Museum of Oaxaca. Monte Alban also has a small museum at the entrance with some objects and smaller treasures found during archaeological investigations.
Inspired to also see this bucket list location? Book a flight and hotel and turn dreams into memories!
How to get to Monte Alban
Monte Alban is located 10 kilometers from Oaxaca City on the hill towering 500 meters above the city. There are several options for how you can get to the archaeological site:
Taxi
A taxi will be the most convenient and the most expensive way to get to Monte Alban. The taxi will cost around 150 pesos per person each way.
Shuttle bus
In Oaxaca city, you will find a stand on the Zocalo and in Hotel Riviera Angel which sells tickets for an arranged shuttle bus to Monte Alban. They sell return tickets for 100 pesos, the entrance is not included. They depart by schedule, multiple times a day.
Guided tour
You can also visit the archaeological site through a guided tour. You will be picked up and visit Monte Alban with a guide who will tell you everything about the ruins.
Insiders tips for your visit
>> On Sundays, Mexicans can enter Monte Alban for free, so it's more likely Sundays will be a busy day. Don’t go on a Sunday.
>> Most tour buses arrive around 10-11 am. If you want to take pictures of this Zapotec City without too many tourists in the frame or enjoy it in peace, it is best to come as early as possible.
>> We have visited Chichén Itzá without a guide, but have thoroughly studied the history in advance. If you still want a guide, know that there are enough guides at the entrance waiting for you to be booked.
>> Don’t forget your sunscreen because it is almost always warm and sunny in Mexico. And there is little shade in the archaeological site during your visit which will be around 3 hours walking through the Zapotec City.
>> Like everywhere in Mexico, cash is king. Paying with bankcards at the cash register does not always work in Mexico, so bring enough cash to pay.
>> Don't forget to prearrange transport for your way back to the city. Especially if you visit the archaeological site later on the day, there will be fewer taxis.
Before you go, please don´t underestimate how important it is to have the right travel insurance. We recommend World Nomads or Safety Wings!
Plan your visit to Monte Alban
Opening hours: Sun-Sat 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tickets: 80 pesos / about 4 dollar / about 3 euros
Photography: There is a 45 peso fee for using a camera but this isn’t enforced. And you are not allowed to use your drone, they are very strict about this rule.
Duration: Around 2-3 hours to cover all of Monte Alban. It's not the most exciting site you´ll ever see, but we did (and you will) love the vistas from Monte Alban. We also found it fascinating to see how this old civilization used to live, work, play, and enjoy life.
Best time to visit: Go as early as possible in the morning before it gets too hot and the tour buses arrive. Monte Alban is popular with local tourists on weekends and it is free for Mexicans on Sunday. We strongly recommend planning your visit during the week.
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More Travel Inspiration: Traveling through Mexico; tips for public transport, rental cars, and domestic flights
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