A compact 1.2 km loop of shaded gravel paths connects five small plazas at Chicanna, culminating at Structure II, whose doorway is carved as the open jaws of the earth monster, teeth and all. The forest here is dense enough that howler monkeys are heard most mornings, and the site is small enough to combine with Becan in a half day. INAH charges about 85 MXN (approx USD 5) for nationals and residents and about 155 MXN (approx USD 9) for foreign visitors, 08:00 to 17:00 daily.
Chicanna's trailhead is signed off Federal Highway 186 about 10 km west of Xpujil, with colectivo taxis from the Xpujil crossroads taking about 15 minutes and the site open daily from 08:00 to 17:00. The loop covers a compact 1.2 km of shaded gravel paths connecting five small plazas, with essentially no elevation change, making it one of the gentlest walks among the Rio Bec sites. The surface is well-maintained gravel throughout, and dense forest canopy keeps the entire route shaded, which along with howler monkey calls heard most mornings gives the short walk a strong sense of jungle immersion despite its brevity. The clear landmark and natural end point of the loop is Structure II, whose doorway is carved as the open jaws of the earth monster, teeth included, and forms the site's signature image. There is no water source or shelter beyond the tree canopy, so a small amount of water should be carried even for this short walk. Because the site is small enough to see in under an hour, it pairs easily with nearby Becan for a half-day combining both sites without a long midday break.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Chicanna Archaeological Zone, Federal Highway 186, Municipio de Calakmul
- Best season
- November to April
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- 1 litre of water
- Insect repellent
- Wide-angle lens or phone for the doorway facade
Location
Zona Arqueologica de Chicanna, km 141 Federal Highway 186, 24640 Xpujil, Campeche, Mexico
18.4967, -89.5011 View on map
Highlights
- Structure II doorway carved as the open jaws of the earth monster
- Five compact plazas linked by shaded gravel paths
- Howler monkeys heard regularly in the surrounding canopy
- Short loop combinable with Becan for a half-day visit
Tips for visiting
- Bring a wide-angle lens or phone to capture the full doorway facade at Structure II
- Combine with Becan, 10 km away, for a fuller half-day of walking
- Visit in the morning when howler monkey activity and light for photos are both best
- Carry a small bottle of water even for this short walk, since none is sold on site
When to visit
November to April is coolest; visit in the morning for the best chance of hearing howler monkeys.
Accessibility
The gravel loop is level but has some uneven surface sections and no paved ramps into the plazas, so it is only partially manageable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the loop take?
The full 1.2 km loop typically takes 45 to 60 minutes including time at Structure II.
What makes Structure II notable?
Its doorway is carved to resemble the open jaws of the earth monster, one of the best-preserved monster-mouth facades in the Rio Bec style.
Can this be combined with another site the same day?
Yes, Becan is only about 10 km away and the two are commonly visited together in a single morning.