Climb Coba: The Pyramid Has Finally Reopened! What to Expect

Q: Can you currently climb Coba pyramid?

Yes — as of December 8, 2025, the climb is open again . A new wooden stair structure covers the old stone steps to ensure safety and preservation, allowing visitors to once more safely climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid at Coba.

By: Isabella
Posted on: August 18, 2025
Categories: Maya Ruins
Tags: Coba

Coba Ruins: Climb the Nohoch Mul Pyramid Again (Since Dec 2025)

For years, Coba has been one of the most unique archaeological sites in the Yucatán Peninsula. Unlike other major ruins, such as Chichen Itza and Tulum, Coba was famous for allowing visitors to climb its tallest pyramid, Nohoch Mul, which rises 42 meters (138 feet) above the jungle canopy.

Reaching the top was an unforgettable moment—rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding lush forest and ancient causeways.

Why the Climb Closed

In 2020, after the Covid-19 pandemic, the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) closed access to climbing Nohoch Mul.

The closure was part of broader conservation and safety measures implemented across archaeological sites in Mexico. For several years, travelers could still explore Coba’s ruins, sacbé (white roads), lagoons, ball courts, and temples—but the iconic climb remained unavailable.

The Long-Awaited Reopening

After extensive restoration work and safety upgrades, the Coba pyramid officially reopened for climbing on December 8, 2025.

In the past, visitors climbed directly on the pyramid’s irregular stone steps, using a single central rope for support. The ascent was steep and challenging, and the original stones were gradually wearing down due to heavy foot traffic.

To protect the structure and ensure a safer experience, INAH installed a wooden staircase system placed over the ancient steps. This new structure:

Provides a much more secure and comfortable ascent
Protects the original stones from further erosion
Allows more visitors to reach the top safely

Climbs are now organized in small groups of 15 people, with a maximum time of about 15 minutes at the summit to ensure a safe, steady flow.

For travelers, this means the legendary jungle-view climb is officially back—accessible, safer, and better preserved for the future.

What to Expect Now

Coba remains one of the Riviera Maya’s most atmospheric archaeological sites. Set deep in the jungle, it offers shaded trails, wildlife, tranquil lagoons, and a feeling of exploration that is rare at more crowded sites.

Visitors can explore on foot, by bicycle, or by pedicab, making it a fun and flexible experience for families, couples, and adventurers alike.

With the pyramid climb available again, the site has regained one of its most distinctive experiences—yet without losing its peaceful and authentic charm.

Visit Coba on a Private Tour

The best way to explore Coba is on a private tour, where you can enjoy the site at your own pace with a knowledgeable guide.

We offer several options to suit different interests: a Coba-only tour for those who want to focus entirely on the ruins, Coba + Tulum for a day of exploring two iconic Mayan cities, Coba + Cenote to combine history with a refreshing swim, and Coba + Punta Laguna to discover both the ruins and the natural monkey sanctuary.

Each experience is fully private, with transportation, entrance fees, and guidance included, making your visit smooth, flexible, and unforgettable.

Coba Climb Pyramid FAQ

Can you currently climb Coba pyramid?

Yes — as of December 8, 2025, the climb is open again. A new wooden stair structure covers the old stone steps to ensure safety and preservation, allowing visitors to once more safely climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid at Coba.

Is climbing Coba difficult?

Climbing the Coba pyramid is moderately challenging. The new wooden staircase makes the ascent safer and more stable than the original stone steps, but it still requires physical effort. The climb is steep, and you should take your time, stay hydrated, and consider your physical condition before going up.

Reaching the top is optional — the site is enjoyable even if you prefer not to climb.

Is it safe to climb the Coba pyramid?

limbing the Coba pyramid is safe when done responsibly, but it must be undertaken at your own risk.

The ascent requires physical effort and may pose safety concerns for some visitors. You should not climb if you are wearing shoes with slippery soles or high heels; if you suffer from dizziness or vertigo; have recently undergone surgery or experienced an injury; have heart conditions, back, neck, or bone problems; are pregnant; have high blood pressure or aneurysms; or are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Only you know your physical limits. If you believe your health may be at risk, please refrain from climbing to help prevent accidents.

When will climbing Coba reopen?

INAH began restoration works in summer 2025, and the climb officially reopened on December 8, 2025.

Visitors can now climb the Coba pyramid again using the newly installed wooden staircase designed to protect the original stones and improve safety.

Why was climbing Coba closed?

The closure was initially due to Covid-19 restrictions and later maintained to protect the structure and ensure visitor safety.

Is Coba still worth visiting if you can’t climb?

Absolutely. Coba is a vast archaeological site surrounded by jungle. You can walk or rent a bicycle to explore its temples, ball courts, and the extensive network of ancient Mayan roads (sacbé).
Climbing the pyramid is optional — the site is impressive and enjoyable even if you choose not to climb.

What other ruins can you climb in Mexico?

While many major pyramids are closed to climbing (such as Chichen Itza), some smaller sites still allow it. Until Coba reopens, you can consider alternatives like Ek Balam, where climbing the Acropolis pyramid is still permitted.

How can I best visit Coba?

Coba is about 45 minutes from Tulum and can be visited on a half-day or full-day trip. Many travelers combine it with swimming in cenotes or exploring Tulum ruins.