After pickup from your hotel in Palenque city, you will travel to the archaeological site of Palenque. Located in the middle of lush vegetation, the UNESCO World Heritage site served as one of the most important ceremonial centers of the Maya culture during the Classic period. Almost 200 years before the pre-Columbian ruins were discovered in the 18th century, the nearby city was named by the Spanish — a literal translation of the Ch’ol word otulún, which means fenced or fortified place. On arrival, follow your guide and listen to informative commentary. You'll visit the Temple of the Inscriptions, the site's largest pyramid where the tomb of the great Maya ruler Pakal was found. See the royal palace and the Temple of the Foliated Cross. If there is enough time, you'll also explore cultural exhibits at the museum (closed on Monday). (Approximate duration 2 hours)