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Palenque is a Maya city in the jungle of Chiapas, 464 kilometres (288 miles) southwest of Merida. Its temples sit in thick rainforest, and howler monkeys usually announce themselves before you see them. Flying is the quickest way to get from Merida to Palenque, taking 3h 45m. The bus costs $64 (1,100 MXN) and takes 8h 40m - 9h if you'd rather go overland.
Distance from Merida to Palenque
Merida and Palenque are about 464 km (288 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 541 km by road. The quickest way to get from Merida to Palenque is by taking the flight, which takes around 3h 45m.
2 ways to travel from Merida to Palenque
There are two ways to travel from Merida to Palenque. The journey takes 3h 45m–8h 40m and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $64 (1,100 MXN).
Reach out to our Community
1the information is good, but for a person like me it falls a bit short; I would like to travel by bus and, at one or two intermediate points on the merida palenque route, look for accommodation and information of interest about the places.
Hi Alberto, the writer in our team travelled from Merida to Palenque without any stops, but you can split the trip by staying for the night in Campeche City. This city has some interesting archaeological and historical sites to visit, as well as a range of hotel options. If you're more into nature, you might consider staying the night in Escarcega City. It's about 40 minutes away from Cenotes Miguel Colorado that offers activities like ziplining and kayaking. From Escarcega, there are several buses that go to Palenque daily.
PD: Esta respuesta está escrita en inglés para que sea útil para los viajeros de todo el mundo. Recomiendo usar Google Translate para traducir esta respuesta al español.
Our favourite places to stay in Palenque
Here are our favourite places to stay in Palenque for every budget.
Treat YourselfHotel Chan-Kah Resort Village
If you’re looking to treat yourself, Chan Kah Resort is one of the best places to do that in Palenque. You can give yourself the gift of relaxation without the expensive price tag. Plus, you can speed up the relaxation process with a delightful massage at the onsite spa facilities, or by enjoying a drink at their bar.
Possibly the best part, as you splash around in the lagoon-style pools, you’ll be able to hear the monkeys cry in the jungle trees all around you. Alternatively, you can enjoy the jungle symphony whilst enjoying dinner in one of the two restaurants.
- Bungalow-style rooms
- Situated within the jungle
- Spa facilities
- Large swimming pools
Double rooms start from $80 (1,380 MXN) per night
Mid-RangeHotel Chablis Palenque
The central courtyard of the hotel truly feels like a magical oasis, with its palm trees and thriving greenery. And you’ll find not only a swimming pool, but also a hot tub. You won’t ever want to leave, and don’t have to, with their on-site restaurant that serves both delicious international and local dishes.
Located a short walk from the bus station, you won’t need to be dragging your luggage all around town. It’s location also makes your visit to Palenque ruins easy and convenient.
- 15 minutes from Palenque ruins
- Close to the bus station
- On-site restaurant
- Outdoor swimming pool and hot tub
Double rooms between $40-$80 (690-1,380 MXN) per night
BudgetCabañas Bambután
When you think of Palenque, the ruins surrounded by jungle immediately come to mind. Staying at Cabanas Bambutan is the perfect way to experience Palenque, surrounded by nothing but nature and wildlife.
Their bamboo-style buildings help you to feel connected to nature, whilst still providing ultimate comfort and a good nights sleep. Enjoy a drink at their onsite bar or chill out in the lush gardens.
- Unique accommodation
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Onsite bar
- Surrounded by nature
Double rooms start from $15-$40 (260-690 MXN) per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Palenque?
Palenque is a top destination in Mexico for archaeology and Mayan history lovers. There’s really not much to see in Palenque town, but its jungles are another story. Palenque’s real attraction lies in the archaeological ruins hidden within the rainforest, just 20 minutes outside of town.
The whole complex has an Indiana Jones feel to it. Its structures are impressive, but they are unfortunately not as well-preserved as Chichen Itza. Still, some people actually prefer the ruins in Palenque because you’re able to climb on them, literally taking the experience to whole new heights.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Merida to Palenque, roughly 464 kilometres (288 miles) apart. In all, there are 2 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $64 (1,100 MXN). The quickest trip takes 3h 45m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Merida to Palenque?
The distance from Merida to Palenque is 464 kilometres (288 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Merida to Palenque?
The fastest way to get from Merida to Palenque is by flight and takes 3h 45m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Merida to Palenque?
The cheapest way to get from Merida to Palenque is by bus with ticket costs starting from 1,100 MXN.
About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Travel Writer
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
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