What is included in Teotihuacán guided tours?

Most Teotihuacán guided tours include entry to the archaeological site, transport from Mexico City, a bilingual guide, and visits to other landmarks like the Basilica of Guadalupe and Tlatelolco Square. Some tours also feature a tequila or mezcal tasting and optional lunch stops at local restaurants near the pyramids.

How much time do you need to visit Teotihuacán?

You’ll need **at least 4–6 hours** to explore the main pyramids—**the Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon, and Temple of the Feathered Serpent**. If you book a **full-day guided tour**, expect around 8–9 hours including transfers from Mexico City. Hot air balloon rides last about **3–4 hours** including check-in and flight time.

Do Teotihuacán tickets include transport from Mexico City?

Yes, but only certain tours include transport. Standard entry tickets do **not** cover transfers, so you’ll need to drive or take a public bus to Teotihuacán. **Guided tours and balloon experiences** typically include **round-trip transfers from central Mexico City**, with pick-up points at popular spots like Ángel de la Independencia or Hostal Amigo.

Are there any restrictions for hot air balloon rides at Teotihuacán?

Yes. The balloon rides have a **weight limit of 150 kg (330 lbs)** per person and are not suitable for **pregnant guests** or travelers with heart or mobility issues. Flights operate only in good weather conditions, and children must be accompanied by adults. Always check your confirmation for **exact check-in times**, usually between **4:30am and 5am**.

Can you climb the Teotihuacán pyramids?

No, you can’t climb the Pyramid of the Sun or the Pyramid of the Moon anymore. Climbing was permanently banned to protect the ancient structures from erosion and damage caused by millions of visitors over the years. However, you can still explore the base and surrounding platforms, which offer fantastic views.

Is there a hidden tunnel under Teotihuacán?

Yes! A secret underground tunnel was discovered beneath the Temple of the Feathered Serpent in 2003, containing over 100,000 artifacts like glowing pyrite spheres, carved jaguar bones, and mysterious statues. Some archaeologists believe this tunnel represents the underworld in Aztec mythology, but it remains off-limits to visitors.

What’s the best non-touristy souvenir to buy at Teotihuacán?

Most visitors pick up obsidian trinkets, but a lesser-known authentic souvenir is pulque cups made from gourds. To find them, skip the stalls near the main entrance and look for independent artisans near Entrance 3 or outside La Gruta restaurant.

What’s a rare food or drink you should try near Teotihuacán?

Besides the usual blue corn tlacoyos, try “Tuna Cheese” (Queso de Tuna)—a candied cactus fruit that looks like cheese but tastes like honey. It’s a Teotihuacán specialty you won’t find in most tourist spots!

Are there any creepy ghost stories about Teotihuacán?

Yes! Locals believe the Avenue of the Dead is haunted, especially at night. Some security guards claim to hear whispers or see shadowy figures near the Pyramid of the Moon after sunset. There’s even a legend about a phantom warrior who appears under a full moon. His footsteps echo, but if you turn around… there’s no one there.

Are there bathrooms inside Teotihuacán?

No, restrooms are only available at the entrances (Puerta 1, 2, and 3). Plan accordingly before starting your exploration.

Teotihuacán Tours | Day Trips, Guides & Skip the Line Options

From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Johnpromise

United Kingdom

Jan 2026

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+2 more

My Tour Guide - Silvia, was simply fantastic. She's an expert and took me on a great tour of the place, taking her time to explain all the features, symbols and architecture of the place. She equally explained the two pyramids to me and took excellent pictures of me at many times. I had fun and will recommend her to everyone.

Areli

United States

Dec 2025

‌

From the start Arturo was very communicative and I truly appreciated that. Arturo introduced us to our guide Fernando who was very friendly and enthusiastic about teaching us the history of Teotihuacán. We truly enjoyed our time with Fernando and left feeling very happy with what we learned and experienced. We will definitely recommend to book with friends!

Arianna

Italy

Jan 2026

‌

+1 more

Incredible hot air balloon experience. Knowledgeable and friendly staff. Breathtaking locations. Excellent breakfast in a cave. Spectacular archaeological site. Worth every penny.

Santiago

Colombia

Dec 2025

‌

+1 more

The tour was very good. Everything worked according to what was offered. Our guide Eleasar managed the group very well, anticipating in a timely manner what we were going to do in each of the places we visited. His explanations were very clear and helped us to take advantage of each visit. The transportation was very comfortable and the restaurant was excellent. The investment was worth it. Thank you very much.

Gabrielle

Puerto Rico

Dec 2025

‌

The guide was very cool with the group, helpful and enthusiastic in explaining the information about the places we visited. The tour was very well organized and the bus was comfortable for the transfers.

Caroline

United States

Feb 2026

Guide and driver fun and informative. Karen grew up in the area so we got a bit more insight. In general everything was fun and picturesque. Especially loved the surprise stop at the obsidian workshop with amazing agave talk and drinks. Would highly recommend. I heard the other local tours from headout were are also well worth it.

Alexa

United States

Feb 2026

Had an amazing tour with Patto and Jesus! Patto knew so much history and provided the information in a fun and engaging way. The tour was a good amount of time. We even had the opportunity to climb one of the pyramids. I also enjoyed the stop at a local shop where the shop owner taught us about the agave plant and the various stones found in Teotihuacán. I did experience a bit of altitude sickness but Patto was great about checking in on me and making sure I was feeling ok. Highly recommend this tour and Patto!

Elena

Feb 2026

Arturo was a very nice guide. He knew a lot about the history and culture at Teotihuacan. We did the tour in Spanisch even if we aren't native speakers and he was very kind speaking slowly and repeating things for us. Thanks a lot!

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Teotihuacán, the ancient 'City of the Gods,' lies just 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, and once rivaled the greatest civilizations on Earth. Walking along its Avenue of the Dead, you’ll see the colossal Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, the Temple of Quetzalcóatl, and murals that have survived two millennia. Whether you want to climb ancient stairways, glide over the ruins in a hot air balloon, or explore hidden caves, every experience here reveals a different side of Mexico’s past and its vibrant living culture.

Overview:

Queues & access: Peak entry lines 30 to 60 minutes. Skip-the-line and guided options reduce waiting. Security checks remain.
Best time to visit: Mornings (8am–10am) for cooler weather and lighter crowds. Sunrise balloon check-in 4:45 to 5am. Morning tours meet 6:20 to 6:50am
Price range: MXN $15–$251 depending on tour type, transport, and balloon add-ons.
Best upgrade: Go for the Balloon + Teotihuacán Tour, a sunrise flight, on-ground guided visit, and round-trip transport in one seamless day.
Entry gates: 1–5 (Gate 1 for Temple of Quetzalcóatl, Gate 4 for main pyramids).
Good to know: Expect 2–9 hrs depending on ticket type; most tours start early in the morning from Mexico City.
Compare options: See the booking guide and comparison table below for inclusions and restrictions.

Pyramid of the Moon is climbable again!

After 5 years, you can now climb the first tier (47 steps) for epic valley views. Want the best route + stories behind every stone?

Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacan, Mexico, with visitors exploring the site.

Which Teotihuacán tour and ticket should you book?

Ticket type	What you’ll love	Includes	Timings & duration	Transport	Food & beverages	Restrictions
Skip-the-Line entry	Total freedom! Wander the pyramids at your own pace, take photos, and stay as long as you like (1–6 hrs).	Entry to Teotihuacán site, skip-the-line access.	Open 8am – 5pm. Stay 1 – 6 hours as you wish.	❌ Not included. You’ll need to drive or book your own ride (about 1 hr from CDMX).	❌ None. Bring snacks or eat at local stalls near the exit.	None. Open to all visitors.
Full-Day Guided Tour	A zero-stress day. See three historic spots in one go, learn from a local guide, and enjoy a little mezcal or tequila tasting.	Bilingual guide, entry tickets, visits to Teotihuacán + Guadalupe Shrine + Tlatelolco, tastings.	~9 hours total (7:30am – 4:30pm).	✅ Round-trip bus from central CDMX (Hostal Amigo / MIGA Café).	🥃 Cultural tasting; lunch available at local restaurant (optional)	Suitable for all ages. Moderate walking.
Early / Afternoon Tour	Early bird? Enjoy sunrise glow and empty pyramids. Prefer to sleep in? Afternoon tours are mellow and photo-ready.	Guided Teotihuacán tour, round-trip transportation from Mexico City.	Morning pickup 6:20am / 6:50am · Afternoon 12:45pm. ~5 – 6 hrs.	✅ Available for both morning & afternoon slots.	❌ Food not included. Cafés available near the site.	None, but expect walking & stairs.
Hot Air Balloon Ride	The dream moment — float above the pyramids at sunrise and toast with sparkling wine after landing.	Balloon flight (~45 min), flight certificate, beverage.	Check-in 4:45 – 5am. Total 3 – 4 hrs.	✅ Optional round-trip from CDMX or self-drive to Balloon Port.	🥂 Sparkling wine toast after landing.	❌ No pregnant guests, heart/mobility issues, >150 kg weight limit.
Balloon + Teotihuacan Tour	Fly, explore, and pray — a full-day combo with sightseeing and culture in one go.	Balloon ride, guided tour of Teotihuacán & Basilica, round-trip transport.	5am – 2pm (≈8 – 9 hrs total).	✅ Included from CDMX (Ángel de la Independencia pickup).	🥂 Sparkling wine toast after landing.	❌ No pregnant guests, heart/mobility issues, >150 kg weight limit.
2-Hour Walking Tour	Quick, budget-friendly deep dive into Teotihuacán’s stories and legends.	2-hour tour with expert guide (English/Spanish).	8am or 10am start. 2 hrs duration.	❌ No transport. Meet directly at Teotihuacán.	❌ Food not included.	Moderate walking required.
Balloon Ride + Cave Breakfast	The “Instagram dream” combo — soar at sunrise, then eat breakfast inside a prehistoric cave.	Balloon flight, flight certificate, sparkling wine, cave breakfast.	4:30 – 5am check-in. Total ≈ 5 hrs.	✅ Included from CDMX or arrive at Balloon Port.	🍳 Buffet breakfast in a natural cave called La Cueva.	❌ No pregnant guests, heart/mobility issues, >150 kg weight limit.
Pre-Hispanic Cave Tour	A hidden-gem experience — ancient underground caves, rituals, and tastings.	Round-trip transfers, small-group guided tour, presentations, tastings.	Departure ≈ 8am. ~6 hrs duration.	✅ Yes — included from CDMX.	🌮 Traditional blends tasting.	Moderate walking; not wheelchair accessible.

Things to know before you book your Teotihuacán tours

If you want to explore Teotihuacán your way, Skip-the-line entry tickets get you inside in under two minutes, especially useful at busy Gate 1. You can stay for an hour or six, entirely at your pace. Just note: no transport or guide is included, so you’ll need your own ride from Mexico City (about 1 hour).
Teotihuacán is huge, with five gates spread across several kilometers. Gate 1 takes you to the Temple of Quetzalcóatl, while the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon are near Gate 4, about 2.5 km away. The Basilica of Guadalupe sits much farther at 41 km. A guided tour saves time by handling all transfers between Teotihuacán, the Basilica, and Tlatelolco, with local insights and optional meals.
If you want to beat the crowds (and heat!), the early morning guided tour is your best option. You'll get prime photo opportunities and cooler weather. If waking up early isn't your thing, afternoon guided tours let you sleep in while still benefiting from expert guidance.
Want to see something beyond the usual Teotihuacán sights? The pre-Hispanic cave experience is fascinating, you’ll explore ancient underground caves used by pre-Hispanic civilizations (46.5 kms away), accompanied by a cultural presentation, traditional food tasting, and deep historical context.
If you're looking for something truly memorable, consider a Teotihuacán hot air balloon ride. Flights take off very early (around 5am) and last around 45 minutes over Teotihuacán's stunning pyramids. After landing, you get a flight certificate with sparkling wine and a hearty breakfast (some even serve it in a natural cave!). Keep in mind, there are some restrictions: you can't participate if you're pregnant, have heart conditions, mobility issues, or weigh over 150kg.
If you’re into short, focused explorations, the 2-hour walking tour of the Sun and Moon Pyramids is a great pick. Learn about the Great Goddess, ancient rituals, and the lost solar deity once worshiped here. The tour also stops at the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl, where carvings of owls and jaguars adorn its pillars. Just make sure your ticket includes entry, some tours don’t, so you’ll need to buy it at the gate.

Want to see how the Temple of Quetzalcóatl once looked in full color?

Head to the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City. There’s a stunning scale model of the temple, every serpent head, every bright hue, exactly as it appeared 2,000 years ago.

Stone carvings of Quetzalcoatl at the Anthropology Museum, Mexico City.

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Find your way through the City of the Gods | Decode Teotihuacán with a helpful map

Teotihuacan map showing Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon, Avenue of the Dead, and Quetzalcoatl Temple.

What to expect at Teotihuacán: A step-by-step itinerary

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Begin at the Pyramid of the Sun

The largest structure in Teotihuacan, this pyramid was central to religious ceremonies and astronomical observations.

What to do: Walk around its base and admire its sheer scale. Visit the nearby cave, which is believed to hold spiritual significance.

Tip: Stand at the center of the plaza (this is important) facing the pyramid and clap—listen for an echo that mimics a bird call, a fascinating acoustic feature.

Stroll along the Avenue of the Dead

This grand avenue connects major landmarks like the Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

What to do: Take your time walking this ancient path while imagining how it bustled with activity centuries ago.

Tip: Look for small altars or carvings on the sides of the avenue. These were used for rituals but are often overlooked by visitors.

Visit the Pyramid of the Moon

Smaller than its counterpart, this pyramid was used for ceremonial purposes and offers stunning views of Teotihuacan’s layout.

What to do: Explore its surrounding plazas and platforms instead of climbing.

Tip: Behind the pyramid lies a lesser-known area where archaeologists have unearthed colorful murals depicting deities—ask guides about these hidden treasures.

Discover Plaza de las Tres Culturas

A powerful symbol of Mexico’s layered history, this plaza unites Aztec ruins from Tlatelolco, a colonial church, and modern architecture from the 20th century — three eras in one square.

What to do: Walk through the archaeological remains of Tlatelolco and visit the Santiago Church beside the modern buildings. You’ll literally see centuries of history side by side.

Tip: Visit in the morning for softer light and fewer crowds. If you love photography, capture the contrast between the ancient stones and glass towers.

Explore the temple of Quetzalcoatl

Famous for its intricate carvings of feathered serpents, this temple is one of Teotihuacan’s most iconic structures.

What to do: Study the serpent heads closely; their craftsmanship reveals insights into Mesoamerican mythology.

Tip: Visit during midday when sunlight highlights the details on these carvings, making them even more vivid.

Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

One of the world’s most visited Catholic shrines, the Basilica honors the Virgin of Guadalupe, Mexico’s beloved patron saint. Pilgrims come year-round to see the original tilma said to bear her miraculous image.

What to do: Step inside the modern circular basilica and ride the moving walkway below the sacred image. Visit the old basilica next door to appreciate its baroque façade and tilted structure.

Tip: Attend a morning mass for a calmer, more intimate experience before the crowds arrive.

Uncover Tlatelolco

Once Teotihuacán’s descendant and later a rival to Tenochtitlán, Tlatelolco was an Aztec trading hub before becoming the site of major historical events, from conquest to modern tragedy.

What to do: Explore the Tlatelolco archaeological zone beside Plaza de las Tres Culturas. Look for remains of ancient markets and temples that reveal how advanced pre-Hispanic commerce was.

Tip: Stop by the onsite museum inside the former Colegio de Santiago to understand the evolution from Aztec city to colonial Mexico.

Discover Tepantitla Palace

A residential complex featuring vibrant murals like "The Paradise of Tlaloc," showcasing life in Teotihuacan.

What to do: Spend time analyzing these murals—they depict scenes of abundance and religious symbolism.

Tip: Bring binoculars or a zoom lens to better appreciate intricate details on higher walls.

Stop by La Ciudadela

A massive courtyard believed to be a political and ceremonial hub, featuring smaller pyramids and platforms.

What to do: Walk through its expansive space and imagine grand gatherings here.

Tip: Ask guides about recent archaeological discoveries in this area—they often share stories not found in guidebooks.

Learn at the Teotihuacan museum

Located near the entrance, this museum houses artifacts like pottery, tools, and sculptures that reveal daily life in Teotihuacan.

What to do: Study exhibits showcasing burial practices and trade routes.

Tip: Don’t miss the obsidian tools section—it highlights Teotihuacan’s role as a major center for obsidian production.

End with local cuisine

Outside Teotihuacan, vendors offer traditional Mexican dishes like tacos al pastor or tamales.

What to do: Try pulque, an ancient fermented drink made from agave—a favorite among locals since pre-Hispanic times.

Tip: Look for stalls selling “blue corn” tortillas—they’re more authentic and flavorful than regular ones.

How to get to Teotihuacán from Mexico City

Teotihuacán is about 50 km (31 miles) from Mexico City, and getting there can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the mode of transport. If you want a smooth, hassle-free trip, a guided tour with transport is your best bet. However, if you're feeling adventurous, there are other ways too. Here’s a breakdown of your options

Fun fact!

The Temple of the Feathered Serpent hides a genius water system straight out of an Indiana Jones movie. Early engineers built secret aqueducts inside the pyramid so that when it rained, water shot out of the sculpted serpent mouths — like the whole temple suddenly came alive.

Want more movie-level secrets? Join a guided tour

Plan your visit to Teotihuacán

Helpful tips for visiting Teotihuacán

Choose Entrance 3 for the best start (and shade!)

Most people enter from Entrance 1 or 2, which means the Avenue of the Dead gets super crowded by mid-morning. If you want a quieter start, begin at Entrance 3 near the Pyramid of the Moon. This way, you walk against the crowd and get better photos before the main areas fill up. Bonus point: Entrance 3 has more trees, so you'll get a bit of shade at the start.

Avoid wearing black or dark colors

Teotihuacán’s pyramids are made of volcanic rock, which absorbs and radiates heat like crazy. If you wear black or dark clothing, you’ll literally feel like you’re baking by noon. Go for light-colored, loose-fitting clothes—you’ll feel the difference!

Carry an umbrella, for rain + heat

Locals do this, but tourists rarely think of it! The sun at Teotihuacán is brutal, and there’s no shade inside. Carrying a small, foldable umbrella gives you instant relief, way better than just a hat.

The best time for photos is NOT at sunrise

Everyone says “go early for the best photos,” but here’s the real trick—wait until after 3pm. The crowds thin out, the sun is lower, and the light hits the pyramids beautifully without harsh shadows. Morning light is too direct, while afternoon light makes the stone textures pop.

If you're taking a hot air balloon ride, ask for the left side of the basket

During balloon rides, the best views of the Pyramid of the Sun are on the left side of the basket when facing forward. Since balloons drift naturally, they usually move from west to east, meaning the left side gets the best aerial shots. If you’re in a crowded basket, the right side won’t get the same view.

Watch Teotihuacan from above!

Bring small bills for bathrooms

Public restrooms near the entrances charge a small fee (usually 5-10 MXN), and they rarely have change. Always carry exact change in coins or small bills to avoid scrambling. Also—bring your own tissues, because the paper supply is unpredictable.

Sit on the right side of the bus for the best views on the way there

If you’re taking the bus from Autobuses del Norte, sit on the right side for the best views of volcanoes and rural landscapes. The left side mostly faces industrial zones and isn’t as scenic.

The coolest (and least-known) mural is NOT at the pyramids

Most visitors focus on the pyramids, but some of the best-preserved murals are actually at Palacio de Atetelco, a lesser-known area near Entrance 3. If you want to see original Teotihuacán artwork, head there before you leave!

If you have mobility issues, stick to the right side of the Avenue of the Dead

The left side of the Avenue of the Dead has more uneven terrain and rocky paths, making it harder to walk on. If you need a smoother, flatter route, stay on the right side—it’s more compacted and easier to navigate.

The best hidden spot for a snack break is behind the Pyramid of the Moon

There’s a shaded rest area with benches hidden behind the Pyramid of the Moon, where you can sit down away from the crowds. Most visitors never find it because they stay on the main path. Perfect for a quiet water break or snack stop.

Don’t just look at the pyramids—look at the ground

Near the Pyramid of the Moon, you’ll see tiny obsidian fragments on the ground—they were used in ancient rituals. You can’t take them home (it’s illegal), but keep an eye out for them to see a piece of history beneath your feet.

Bring electrolytes

Water is great, but you sweat a lot here due to the dry heat. Buy electrolyte packets (like SueroX or Electrolit) from a convenience store in Mexico City before you go—they help prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion better than just water.

Avoid taking photos near street vendors—they might charge you

Some vendors expect a “photo fee” if you take pictures near their stalls, even accidentally. If you don’t want to be asked for money, be mindful of what’s in your frame when snapping pictures.