Climbing Coba

A clearing ahead gave one its first glimpse of the Nohoch Mul Pyramid rising high above the Yucatan Peninsula. One hundred and thirty steps to the summit. I stand at the base and look up in awe.

The stones are as slick as black ice, my foot barely fits on the narrow step. I understand why the rope was put into place and grab it tightly with one hand.

The final step brings me to an unparalleled view of the area. I let the sweat drip off my brow as I sit and cool down atop this sacred place.

After a spell, I look down and try to calculate the best route to take back to the ground. Others are sliding down on their backsides, or crawling in reverse on hands and knees.

Inadvertently worshiping the Mayan Gods of old as they descend. Bow down new humans.

I reach for the sky one last time, then slowly make my way down from the mighty pyramid.