Archeological Adventures in Huatulco

The pyramids of Chichen Itza may be Mexico’s most famous archeological site but Huatulco proves that ancient Mexican treasures are still being discovered.  Located in Huatulco, in the southern state of Oaxaca on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Copalita Eco-Archeological Park displays some of the country’s more recent archeological discoveries. After relaxing on the private beach at Secrets Huatulco Resort, I decided to grab a deeper perspective of the area’s natural wonders.

Guided by Huatulco’s most popular guide, Alberto Espana Chavez (B.B. for short) who works with the resort’s tour partner, Amstar, I gained detailed knowledge of the area’s rich history. Unfolding on an impressive 87 hectares that includes wetlands, forests and archeological artifacts that blend into the landscape, I was surprised at the diversity of the park. The park offers stunning ocean views and according to B.B, is only the second Mexican archeological site near water. The first is Tulum. The park opened in 2010 and boasts artifacts and ancient sites dating back over 2000 years.

We started the exploration in the museum, which displayed artifacts from recent digs and explains how the civilizations around the area, including the Mixtecs, Zapotecs and Nahuatls developed the site around 500 BC. Dozens of ceramics showed the customs and artistic precision of the different cultures. The excavated sites reveal advanced engineering and architectural skill as well as a writing system and religious and astronomy rituals.

Stepping outside the museum, the variety of ruins and archeological remains was fascinating.  . Several pyramid bases and temples loomed with trees sprouting out of the structures. All vegetation is allowed to grow naturally, whether in ancient structures or not, to preserve the ecological system of the area. The remains of a ball court stretched out over shrubbery and trees and most interestingly, a large stone placed on the edge of a cliff was classified as a platform where sacrifices were made.

A series of paths showcased the beauty of the landscape and I gained glimpses of vibrant native plants as well as armadillos, lizards and frogs. There are two different climate and vegetation zones contained within the park: one is the forest and the other a swamp. You really need bug spray if you venture into the swamp area, which I didn’t have, so I strolled the forest and learned about the medicinal purposes for many of the plants.

The northern tip of the park leads to the mouth of the Copalita River, where rocks and steep cliffs formed a panoramic view of the beach. Copalita Eco-Archeological Park combines the best of history and nature for a memorable Hualtulco experience.