Archaeological Zone: Soledad de Maciel
Destinations 16/06/2026
Are you planning a vacation in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo? If, in addition to enjoying the sun, beaches, and refreshing coconuts, you're looking for an adventure, the Soledad de Maciel Archaeological Zone is the place for you. This site, recognized as a testament to Cuitlatec history, holds great secrets of a forgotten civilization.
Most travelers associate the Costa Grande of Guerrero exclusively with golden beaches and all-inclusive resorts. However, just a few kilometers from the sea lies a hidden historical treasure that reveals the region's rich history and culture. This archaeological zone is known as Xihuacan or Soledad de Maciel. The advantage of this site is that, unlike its sister site Chichén Itzá, it isn't as overrun with tourists as other historical monuments.
One of the first questions you'll ask yourself upon visiting is, "Who were the Cuitlatecas?" While many associate them with the Aztecs or the Maya, the cuitlatecas belonged to an independent and powerful culture that dominated the municipality of Petatlán. The cuitlatecas were great engineers and farmers who transformed this valley into a thriving religious and political center.
Xihuacan served as their main ancient city, a sacred place where daily life and divine rituals were intimately connected to the San Jeronimito River.
A visit to Soledad de Maciel is short, but each stop carries immense historical weight. Below, we'll show you the three key points that define the site experience.
The ballcourt of Xihuacan is not just any ballcourt. Measuring over 160 meters in length, it's one of the largest ever discovered in Mexico. Standing in the middle of the court, it's striking to think that this wasn't just a simple sport, but a ritual of an impressive culture. The place retains a special magic.
The central point of the visit is the main pyramid of Xihuacan. It is a ceremonial center, evidenced by its construction system. The pyramid is built on a platform of fired clay bricks, a technique uncommon in Mesoamerica. From the pyramid, you can see the Hill of the Witches, a site of pre-Hispanic ceremonies that remains steeped in mysticism.
Before or after walking among the ruins, a stop at the site museum is a must. The museum has a collection of pieces found in local excavations, from clay figures to stelae with astronomical glyphs. It is a perfect complement to provide context for the archaeological zone.
Depending on your mode of transportation, these are the best options for getting to Soledad de Maciel from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo:
By car: If you're traveling by car, you can take Federal Highway 200 south towards Acapulco. When you reach the municipality of Petatlán, there are signs directing you to Soledad de Maciel. The trip takes about 45 minutes from Zihuatanejo.
By public transportation: You can take a combi (minibus) from Zihuatanejo towards Petatlán and ask the driver to let you off at the turnoff to the archaeological site. From there, you can take a local taxi to the site.
The weather is unforgiving: The heat on the Guerrero coast can be intense.
Cash: Bring cash to pay for the entrance fee, transportation, and to buy food or handicrafts from local vendors.
Support the community: At the end of the tour, stop by the small stalls in the village. Trying a fresh coconut water or buying local fruit directly helps the families who care for this heritage.
The entrance fee is usually between 55 and 70 MXN pesos. As a tip, admission is usually free for Mexican nationals with ID on Sundays.
The usual hours for the archaeological site and museum are Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Yes. The route from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo to the town of Soledad de Maciel is safe and well-traveled by locals. Ideally, you should travel during the day and follow the guides' recommendations.
Where to stay: Complete your adventure at Park Royal Beach Ixtapa
After a day of exploring among pyramids, all you'll want is a good rest, a spectacular dinner, and a comfortable bed facing the sea. The best base for this trip is the Park Royal Beach Ixtapa hotel.
Our all-inclusive resort is praised for its guest services. You can spend the morning discovering the hidden history of Guerrero and the afternoon relaxing by our pool overlooking the Pacific.
The best-kept secret of the Costa Grande of Guerrero
Most travelers associate the Costa Grande of Guerrero exclusively with golden beaches and all-inclusive resorts. However, just a few kilometers from the sea lies a hidden historical treasure that reveals the region's rich history and culture. This archaeological zone is known as Xihuacan or Soledad de Maciel. The advantage of this site is that, unlike its sister site Chichén Itzá, it isn't as overrun with tourists as other historical monuments.
Who were the Cuitlatecas? The culture behind the ruins
One of the first questions you'll ask yourself upon visiting is, "Who were the Cuitlatecas?" While many associate them with the Aztecs or the Maya, the cuitlatecas belonged to an independent and powerful culture that dominated the municipality of Petatlán. The cuitlatecas were great engineers and farmers who transformed this valley into a thriving religious and political center.
Xihuacan served as their main ancient city, a sacred place where daily life and divine rituals were intimately connected to the San Jeronimito River.
What to see in Soledad de Maciel? The three pillars of the visit
A visit to Soledad de Maciel is short, but each stop carries immense historical weight. Below, we'll show you the three key points that define the site experience.
Ballcourt of Soledad de Maciel
The ballcourt of Xihuacan is not just any ballcourt. Measuring over 160 meters in length, it's one of the largest ever discovered in Mexico. Standing in the middle of the court, it's striking to think that this wasn't just a simple sport, but a ritual of an impressive culture. The place retains a special magic.
The Main Pyramid and Ceremonial Center
The central point of the visit is the main pyramid of Xihuacan. It is a ceremonial center, evidenced by its construction system. The pyramid is built on a platform of fired clay bricks, a technique uncommon in Mesoamerica. From the pyramid, you can see the Hill of the Witches, a site of pre-Hispanic ceremonies that remains steeped in mysticism.
Site Museum of the Soledad de Maciel-Xihuacan Archaeological Zone
Before or after walking among the ruins, a stop at the site museum is a must. The museum has a collection of pieces found in local excavations, from clay figures to stelae with astronomical glyphs. It is a perfect complement to provide context for the archaeological zone.
How to get to Soledad de Maciel from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo
Depending on your mode of transportation, these are the best options for getting to Soledad de Maciel from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo:
By car: If you're traveling by car, you can take Federal Highway 200 south towards Acapulco. When you reach the municipality of Petatlán, there are signs directing you to Soledad de Maciel. The trip takes about 45 minutes from Zihuatanejo.
By public transportation: You can take a combi (minibus) from Zihuatanejo towards Petatlán and ask the driver to let you off at the turnoff to the archaeological site. From there, you can take a local taxi to the site.
Traveler-to-traveler tips to enjoy your visit
The weather is unforgiving: The heat on the Guerrero coast can be intense.
Cash: Bring cash to pay for the entrance fee, transportation, and to buy food or handicrafts from local vendors.
Support the community: At the end of the tour, stop by the small stalls in the village. Trying a fresh coconut water or buying local fruit directly helps the families who care for this heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Xihuacan (FAQ)
How much does it cost to enter the Soledad de Maciel archaeological site?
The entrance fee is usually between 55 and 70 MXN pesos. As a tip, admission is usually free for Mexican nationals with ID on Sundays.
What are the visiting hours for Soledad de Maciel?
The usual hours for the archaeological site and museum are Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Is it safe to travel to the Soledad de Maciel archaeological site?
Yes. The route from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo to the town of Soledad de Maciel is safe and well-traveled by locals. Ideally, you should travel during the day and follow the guides' recommendations.
Where to stay: Complete your adventure at Park Royal Beach Ixtapa
After a day of exploring among pyramids, all you'll want is a good rest, a spectacular dinner, and a comfortable bed facing the sea. The best base for this trip is the Park Royal Beach Ixtapa hotel.
Our all-inclusive resort is praised for its guest services. You can spend the morning discovering the hidden history of Guerrero and the afternoon relaxing by our pool overlooking the Pacific.
