Like the others here, I'll give the nod to Albert Coffee, an archeologist whose tour of Cañada de la Virgen I booked through TripAdvisor (about $60US per person). For reasons explained but not retained, one cannot just take themselves on a self-guided tour of this pyramid and the structures that surround it. Albert Coffee is one of the people authorized to guide you and he does so knowledgeably and efficiently. Any tour of this pyramid will have you coming to the site via shuttle then taking another shuttle to the nearest possible point. From there, it's about a 1 mile walk, moderately uphill, to the entrance to the site. You'll leave by walking the same 1 mile portion of road in reverse. Alfred Coffee arms you with a bottle of water, most appreciated. You can bring nothing else with you as those who run the site want no trace left behind. So travel light, as all bags, fanny packs, and day packs must be left in the shuttle you arrived in. The whole experience, start to finish, ran 5 hours, and was interesting. I've been to both Teotihuacan and Pompeii though, and there's a reason you have heard of those and not this. Relatively, this pyramid was only recently discovered, is evidence of a much smaller civilization having lived here, and there's presumably a whole lot left to be revealed. The location - seemingly the middle of nowhere - will leave you wondering what else is out there still unknown. There's likely a lot more even at this site but visible excavation appears to have ceased for now. Still, if you enjoy visiting the structures of ancient civilizations and harbor an appreciation for Mexico's willingness to allow you to climb all over these structures, Cañada de la Virgen should be on your checklist. The tour departs from San Miguel de Allende. read more

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Recommend Albert Coffee tours--he helped process this site and engaged in specialized studies in Meso American archeology from LSU. He's also super funny. His assistant Eric is very attentive as well, which came in handy as we had two young children with us (discounted rate for the littles). Kids enjoyed it. Ask to see the comic book on your way back. No matter who you tour with--check this out. It's incredible to get an up close lesson on Meso American culture at this northernmost MA pyramid. They are, in effect, still discovering and unlocking it's treasures and significance. read more

Great history lesson. I recommend Albert Coffee as your tour guide. He takes daily tours from SMA. Beautiful scenery.

Extra special tour of Canada de la Virgen with archeologist guide, Albert Coffee. He worked on the site and gives you amazing insights into the pyramid, the other constructions, the surrounding area (beautiful views!), and the people who once lived here. Tip: Go to the archeo-astronomer's house for lunch after the tour. Extra cost but the food and her photo-based presentation about the site are more than worth it. read more