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.  

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 apex 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 center 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 (Ball 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.

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Getting There & Around

By Air - The closest airport to Monte Alban is Oaxaca. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

Airport Shuttles: If you're arriving in Mexico by airplane, you can book your airport transfer in advance. Shuttle services are available from all of Mexico's key airports and offer the choice of either a Standard or VIP service level. Standard shuttles will transport up to ten people and their baggage in a modern and comfortable surburban van to/from local hotels; the VIP service provides transportation exclusively for your party, taking you and your belongings directly to/from your local hotel. Connect to the Mexperience Travel Center for details and to reserve your Airport Shuttle in Mexico.

By Car - Monte Alban is located less than 6 miles (10 km) southwest of Oaxaca. Take a road named "Trujano", which leads out of town and onto the road to Monte Alban. Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico's Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental: To explore the local area around Oaxaca, consider renting a car locally. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

By Bus - Regular local buses make the trip from Oaxaca to Monte Alban, all-day, every-day. Oaxaca is easily accessible by bus from all main cities in the region as well being a fast and efficient journey from Mexico City on a modern, tolled, highway. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

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Practical Information

Opening Days & Times: Daily 8 am to 5 pm. Modest admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children and seniors.  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency).

Local Tours: Mexperience offers access to local tours and activities in the Oaxaca region of Mexico. Tours and activities are organized and run by well-established, professional and fully-insured operators. You can search for tours by location or category and make reservations online or by telephone. Buying tours in advance is more convenient and secure, and your spaces on the tour are guaranteed. Connect to the Mexperience Travel center to browse and reserve Local Tours in Mexico.

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: Wear comfortable walking/hiking 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 insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

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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 screen, insect repellent and a hat. Take and drink plenty of water at all times.

Live Weather Report: (Oaxaca)

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