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People sitting around Maya pyramid

Built to awe, the pyramid known as El Castillo has become the towering icon of Chichén Itzá.

Chichén Itzá

Site : Pre-Hispanic City of Chichén Itzá

Location : Mexico

Year Designated : 1988

Category : Cultural

Criteria : (i)(ii)(iii)

Reason : The brilliant ruins of Chichén Itzá evidence a dazzling ancient city that once centered the Maya empire in Central America.

The stepped pyramids, temples, columned arcades, and other stone structures of Chichén Itzá were sacred to the Maya and a sophisticated urban center of their empire from A.D. 750 to 1200.

Viewed as a whole, the incredible complex reveals much about the Maya and Toltec vision of the universe—which was intimately tied to what was visible in the dark night skies of the Yucatán Peninsula.

The most recognizable structure here is the Temple of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo. This glorious step pyramid demonstrates the accuracy and importance of Maya astronomy—and the heavy influence of the Toltecs, who invaded around 1000 and precipitated a merger of the two cultural traditions.

The temple has 365 steps—one for each day of the year. Each of the temple’s four sides has 91 steps, and the top platform makes the 365th.

Devising a 365-day calendar was just one feat of Maya science. Incredibly, twice a year on the spring and autumn equinoxes, a shadow falls on the pyramid in the shape of a serpent. As the sun sets, this shadowy snake descends the steps to eventually join a stone serpent head at the base of the great staircase up the pyramid’s side.

The Maya’s astronomical skills were so advanced they could even predict solar eclipses, and an impressive and sophisticated observatory structure remains on the site today.

This great city’s only permanent water source was a series of sinkhole wells. Spanish records report that young female victims were thrown into the largest of these, live, as sacrifices to the Maya rain god thought to live in its depths. Archaeologists have since found their bones, as well as the jewelry and other precious objects they wore in their final hours.

Chichén Itzá's ball court is the largest known in the Americas, measuring 554 feet (168 meters) long and 231 feet (70 meters) wide. During ritual games here, players tried to hit a 12-pound (5.4-kilogram) rubber ball through stone scoring hoops set high on the court walls. Competition must have been fierce indeed—losers were put to death.

Chichén Itzá was more than a religious and ceremonial site. It was also a sophisticated urban center and hub of regional trade. But after centuries of prosperity and absorbing influxes of other cultures like the Toltecs, the city met a mysterious end.

During the 1400s people abandoned Chichén Itzá to the jungle. Though they left behind amazing works of architecture and art, the city’s inhabitants left no known record of why they abandoned their homes. Scientists speculate that droughts, exhausted soils, and royal quests for conquest and treasure may have contributed to Chichén Itzá's downfall.

Recently this World Heritage site was accorded another honor. In a worldwide vote Chichén Itzá was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

How to Get There

Chichén Itzá is located near the small town of Piste. Bus services connect to the international airports at Mérida (under two hours) and Cancun (two and a half hours).

When to Visit

The ruins are open daily. Chichén Itzá's climate is consistently tropical—average temperatures are 93ºF (34ºC). Spring and autumn equinoxes offer the chance to see the incredible shadow serpent of El Castillo—but the often crowded site is absolutely packed at these times.

How to Visit

Staying in the Chichén Itzá area allows visitors to visit early in the morning, out of the hot sun and without the company of the many tourists who arrive on day trip tours from Mérida and Cancun. There is also a light show on the site at night.

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  • WORLD HERITAGE SITES
  • ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

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Chichen Itza

By: History.com Editors

Updated: June 26, 2023 | Original: February 19, 2018

View of the Kukulcan Temple in the archa...CHICHEN ITZA, MEXICO: View of the Kukulcan Temple in the archaeological site of Chichen Itza, state of Yucatan on June 25th, 2007. The Kukulcan Temple is among the leading contenders to be the new seven wonders of the world. The seven winners will be announced July 7, 2007 in Lisbon, Portugal. AFP PHOTO/Marte REBOLLAR (Photo credit should read Marte REBOLLAR/AFP via Getty Images)

Chichen Itza was a Mayan city on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Although it’s an important tourist attraction, Chichen Itza also remains an active archeological site. New discoveries are still being unearthed in the area, providing even more insight into the culture and accomplishments of the Mayan people, who ruled much of present-day Mexico and Central America prior to the arrival of European colonists. Chichen Itza was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 and, in 2007, it was voted in a global survey as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Where Is Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza is located about 120 miles from the modern-day resort town of Cancun, on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

The name Chichen Itza is a Mayan language term for “at the mouth of the well of the Itza.” The Itza were an ethnic group of Mayans who had risen to power in the northern part of the Yucatan peninsula, where the city is located.

The well in the name refers to a number of underground rivers that run beneath the region and likely served as the source of water for the city. This easy access to water made the location perfect for a city the size of Chichen Itza.

When Was Chichen Itza Built?

Historic accounts differ as to when Chichen Itza was built and ultimately developed into a center of political and economic power. Some accounts place the establishment of the city in the early 400s A.D., while others suggest construction started a few years later, in the middle part of the fifth century.

What isn’t up for debate is that Chichen Itza was a significant center of political and economic activity in the Mayan culture by roughly 600 A.D.

By then, it was already one of the largest cities in the Mayan world, covering nearly two square miles with densely packed commercial, residential and other structures made of stone. Chichen Itza even had its own “suburbs,” with smaller homes occupying the outskirts of the city.

El Castillo

Remarkably, given the relatively simple technology available at the time, Chichen Itza was built in an area of rough terrain that was leveled in order to accommodate larger structures, including, most notably, El Castillo (“the castle”), a pyramid structure that, thanks to restoration efforts on the part of the Mexican government, still stands today.

Another larger structure on the site, Las Monjas, which served as a government building, was also built on leveled terrain.

All of the buildings of Chichen Itza were linked by a network of nearly 100 “sacbeob,” or paved roadways and sidewalks—which was significant, given that many European cities did not yet feature paved streets at the time.

In addition, archeologists believe the Mayans painted many of the buildings in bright colors, including reds, greens and blues. Today, though, the remains of the city retain the pale gray colors of the original stone.

Cenote at Chichen Itza

A large cenote (sacred well or spring) located at the northern end of Chichen Itza has immense ceremonial and archaeological significance.

Long rumored to have been the site of human sacrifice, the cenote was dredged in the early 1900s. The dredging yielded numerous precious artifacts made of gold, turquoise and jade, as well as human remains.

Researchers found that the human remains had bone marks and other wounds indicating that they were killed before being thrown into the cenote.

Chichen Itza as a Capital

By the ninth century, Chichen Itza was a de facto regional capital, with its rulers controlling much of the central and northern Yucatan peninsula.

Via its port at Isla Cerritos on the northern coast, Chichen Itza became an important commercial center, trading in goods—including gold and other treasures—with other cities throughout the Americas.

At its height, it is believed that as many as 50,000 people lived in the city. This population may have also been fairly diverse, at least by standards of the time, with residents immigrating to the city from beyond the Yucatan, including from present-day Central America.

The Decline of Chichen Itza

Although the fall of Mayan civilization is widely attributed to the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492, and the European colonialists that followed the famous explorer, Chichen Itza may well have lost its place as an important city in the region long before then.

Indeed, historians believe that many of the political and economic activities of the city had shifted to Mayapan, a newer community built to the south and west of Chichen Itza, by the mid-1200s.

There is some evidence that Chichen Itza may have been raided and looted at this time, although that remains up for debate.

Still, when Spanish conquistadors arrived in 1526, there was a thriving community living in and around the city. As a result, it was only natural that, for a time, the Spanish set up a temporary capital there.

They later used the site as a headquarters for cattle ranching activities.

Chichen Itza Today

Long abandoned by the Spanish, and then by the newly formed country of Mexico , Chichen Itza became a significant architectural site in the mid-1800s. It remains so today.

A number of important structures of the original city remain standing, some thanks to restoration efforts on the part of the Mexican government. Among them:

El Castillo: Also known as the Temple of Kukulkan, named for a Mayan deity that appears as a feathered serpent. This pyramid-shaped structure stands close to 100 feet high.

The Great Ball Court: Just to the northwest of El Castillo, this structure was used for sport—primarily a team game using a ball.

The North Temple: Also called the Temple of the Bearded Man, this small building is adjacent to the Great Ball Court and features a carving on its inner walls, with the central figure of a man with a carving under his chin that resembles facial hair.

The Steam Bath: This structure features a water bath and steam chamber operated by using heated stones.

Sacbe Number One:  One of the paved streets of the city that extends nearly 900 feet.

Temple of the Warriors: Another large, stepped pyramid.

Group of a Thousand Columns:  A series of exposed columns that are believed to have supported a large roof system.

El Mercado:  A square structure at the southern end of the Temple of the Warriors that archeologists believe served as the city’s marketplace.

El Osario:  Another step-pyramid structure with a temple at its peak.

Today, some 2 million tourists visit Chichen Itza annually to explore its architectural wonders and gain further insight into Mayan history and culture. However, archeologists are still at work on the site.

As recently as 2016, scientists discovered a smaller pyramid within El Castillo using modern imaging technology. It is believed this smaller structure held religious significance to the Mayans.

Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen Itza. UNESCO . Chichen Itza. National Geographic . Second pyramid found inside Kukulkan at Chichen Itza in Mexico. CNN . Chichen Itza. Exploratorium.edu .

why visit chichen itza

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Your Complete Guide to Visiting Chichén Itzá in 2024

Visiting Chichen Itza is a highlight of any trip to the Yucatan and for a lot of people, it is their entire raison d’etre for venturing into this part of the world in the first place.

The ancient Mayan city is one of the new seven wonders of the world and has enjoyed UNESCO-protected status since 1988. At its peak, more than 50,000 people called the city their home and today, more than two million travelers pass through its gates every year. 

This comprehensive guide to visiting Chichen Itza has been written by a British Travel Writer based in the Yucatan. It will run through everything you need to know before planning your trip – how to get to the site, where to stay in the area, purchasing tickets, and important structures to look out for when exploring the ruins.

Table of Contents

Visiting Chichén Itzá: Everything You Need to Know 

why visit chichen itza

Chichén Itzá was a major city of religious, political, and commercial importance during the days of the Ancient Mayan empire. At its height, is believed that as many as 50,000 people called it their home.

Although the famous pyramid, known as ¨El Castillo¨ or ¨The Temple of Kukulkan¨ is the most photographed sight within the complex, Chichen Itza is larger than many people realize and the city occupies a surface area of around 4 square miles.  

Archeologists still debate about the exact date at which the city was founded, but the site is generally believed to date back to the early 400s A.D. It really flourished and thrived between 600 and 1200 AD before it was eventually abandoned, and its residents moved to Mayapan.  

Purchasing tickets for Chichén Itzá

The Temple of Kukulkan  Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is open every day, from Monday to Sunday from 8 am until 5 pm with the last admission at 4 pm. If you are visiting the site independently, it is possible to purchase tickets online in advance, or in person at the ticket office. 

Ticket prices may be subject to change in the future but as of January 2024, a general admission ticket is $571 pesos for foreign travelers and $253 pesos for Mexicans. Yucatecans can enjoy a discounted admission price of $85 pesos. 

Mexican citizens should prepare to show a valid ID document. 

The 571 pesos admission fee for foreigners is made up of a 486 pesos archeological site fee and an 85 pesos charge for federal tax. Concessions are available for children aged 3-12 who can enter the site for just 85 pesos. 

It is a good idea to purchase your ticket online, in advance so that you know that everything is paid for and organized before you arrive. 

Go it alone versus guided tour 

The plaza of a thousand columns, Chichen Itza

You can opt to visit Chichen Itza independently or you may wish to reserve a spot on a small group or private guided tour. The best option is arguably subjective, depending on you and your personal preferences. 

If you have access to a car and you are road-tripping around the Yucatan, it is very easy to drive to the site and visit independently. You can take buses to the ruins from most major cities across the peninsula but if you are traveling from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, or Tulum, these require a change and they don’t get you there until later in the morning when crowds have already formed. 

Opting to do a Chichen Itza tour takes a lot of the stress out of planning the logistics of your trip yourself. Tours include a pick-up and drop-off from your hotel accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle so you don’t have to worry about getting to bus stations or taking multiple buses. 

If you visit the site independently, depending on where you are starting from, it is often worth spending a night in a hotel close to the archeological site or in nearby Valladolid. Then, you can get up very early the next morning and be one of the first people on the site. 

(That’s what we did and that’s why there are no people in these photos. We were literally the first people through the doors when we visited in May!) 

Best Chichen Itza tours and tickets for 2024

Photo of El Castillo Chichen Itza taken from the base of the pyramid with a carved serpent head visible at the foot  of the pyramid

Many reputable travel companies operate in Mexico. Some of the best Chichen Itza tours from various starting points around the Yucatan are summarised below for your consideration.

Reserve your place online in advance to avoid disappointment!

  • Chichen Itza, buffet lunch, cenote, tequila tasting, and Valladolid tour (pick up from Cancun, Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum)
  • Chichen Itza, cenote, and Valladolid all-inclusive tour
  • Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, cenote, and traditional buffet lunch tour
  • Skip-the-line entrance ticket to Chichen Itza
  • Chichen Itza, cenote and Valladolid private tour
  • Chichen Itza, the pink lagoon, and pink flamingos

Important sites and structures to look out for at Chichen Itza

why visit chichen itza

The Mayan city of Chichen Itza is an expansive site made up of more than 20 different groups of buildings separated by 75 different roadways. Although each of the structures is special in its right, some of the most notable ones to look out for are summarized below. 

El Castillo/The Temple of Kukulkan  

why visit chichen itza

El Castillo, also known as ¨The Temple of Kukulkan¨ is no doubt the most famous and most photographed structure at Chichen Itza. The grand stepped pyramid reaches a height of 95 feet and is one of the first things that you see when you enter the complex. 

It takes its name from Kukulkan – a Mayan deity that appears as a feathered serpent (similar to Quetzalcoatl in Aztec culture). The creators of the temple pay homage to this deity in the form of detailed serpent carvings that sit on either side of the structure. 

Fascinatingly, there is a spring and autumn equinox that takes place at Chichen Itza once a year, every year around March 21 and Sept. 21. During the late afternoon, the shadows of the sun create the illusion of a serpent climbing up the steps of the pyramid and thousands of locals and visitors flock here on this date especially to see it. 

( Dzilbilchaltun also has a similar equinox). You cannot enter the pyramid, however, it was built on top of a smaller, older pyramid and if you were to venture inside, you would find a grand red jaguar throne with eyes made of precious jade. 

You will note a lot of people clapping as they walk around the pyramid. When you do so, an obscure sound that almost resembles a rattlesnake is emitted from the structure. To this day, archeologists are unsure whether that was intentional or a mere coincidence.

Tzompantli Platform

Visiting Chichen Itza: The Tzompantli platform was used to display the heads of enemies and traitors. It is a stone platform with carvings of skulls

As you make your way towards the grand temple of El Castillo, keep your eyes peeled for a small rectangular stone platform on your left-hand side. Intricately carved skulls and skeletons can be found along the sides of this platform, known as the Tzompantli . 

Thousands of years ago, the Mayans would stack the severed heads of any traitors or members of enemy tribes on top of this platform as a warning not to mess with them. 

El Caracol/ The Observatory

why visit chichen itza

The Observatory at Chichen Itza is one of the most unique structures on the site that is quite unlike anything found in other Mayan cities in Mexico. It is affectionately nicknamed ¨El Caracol¨ (meaning the snail/the shell) because of its conch-like appearance, in particular, the spiral staircase that leads to the upper part of the building. 

The Ancient Mayans were keen astronomers. They are said to have read constellations and to have documented and analyzed every movement of the sky above them because they believed that from it, they could understand the will of the gods. 

Archeologists believe that at Chichen Itza, El Caracol was the site of a lot of this stargazing. The structure was most likely constructed between the Terminal Classic and the Early Post Classic periods. 

The Temple of the Warriors 

why visit chichen itza

The Temple of the Warriors can be found in the main plaza of Chichen Itza, just north of the El Castillo pyramid. It is immediately recognizable from the rows and rows of stone pillars and columns that are lined along the lower and upper platforms. 

Although you cannot climb or enter the building, you can see a small Chac Mool sculpture at the top of the structure, even from a distance.

You will get used to seeing Chac Mool a lot if you visit one or two Mayan cities during your Yucatan itinerary . He is a reclining figure that has his knees drawn up together and his head turned to one side. 

In his hands, he holds a flat dish that was used for sacrifices. Sacrifices could be anything from human sacrifices and human blood to things like flowers, tamales, and tortillas.

Carvings of serpents and jaguars can be found along the sides and facade of the temple.  

The Sacred Cenote 

why visit chichen itza

There are a couple of cenotes (freshwater sinkholes) scattered throughout the Chichen Itza complex. There are over 7,000 cenotes across the Yucatan peninsula today that were formed when the Chicxulub meteor crashed into the earth over 65 million years ago, weakening the surface of the ground in the Yucatan. 

For the Ancient Mayans, cenotes were places of spiritual importance and they were believed to connect the human world with the underworld that they referred to as Xibalba. (Xibalba literally translates to mean ¨place of fright¨ or  ¨K’iche’ Mitnal¨ in Mayan). 

Between the 5th and 16th centuries AD, people from across the Yucatan would make a pilgrimage to the sacred cenote and make offerings in the hope of being granted health and fortune by the Mayan Gods. Sacrificial rituals would take place here where people (mostly adult men and children) would be killed and thrown into the water. 

Precious stones and gems and luxurious jewels of jade, silver, and gold were also thrown into the cenote for the gods of Xibalba. The water of the cenote is 6 to 12 meters deep but you cannot enter or swim in it, it is only to be observed from a distance. 

The Great Ball Court 

why visit chichen itza

The ball court at Chichen Itza is the largest of its kind in Mesoamerica. Millennia ago, the Ancient Mayans would play a game called Pok ta Pok. (If you find yourself in Merida on a Saturday evening, you can see a re-enactment of it close to the cathedral in Plaza Grande). 

The rules of the game were that players had to whack a heavy rubber ball through the stone hoops mounted high on the walls of the court using just their hips. The game was played for fun, but it was also sometimes used as a way to settle debates and disagreements. 

Occasionally, the losing team was sacrificed. The Chichen Itza ball court has a long wall on each side, and on one end of the court, you can find carvings and images depicting the sacrifices of ball players. 

The stone hoops here are interesting because they have been carved with plumed serpents. 

La Iglesia and the Nunnery 

Visiting Chichen Itza: Detailed friezes and long-nosed Chaac masks at La Iglesia

La Iglesia (¨the church¨) is a small structure with only one chamber that sits in the southern part of Chichen Itza and is quite a walk away from El Castillo and the center of the site. Its facade, as well as the facades of the nearby ¨nunnery¨ building, are remarkably detailed and well-preserved. 

Along the front of the structure, there are masks of the big-nosed rain god Chaac, which is representative of the Puuc style of architecture and is quite similar to the designs that you will see at the palaces of Labna, Kabah, and Sayil along the Puuc archeological route .

The nunnery sits beside La Iglesia although the name is misleading as this building was not a convent and was most likely a home for some of the city’s nobility. Carvings of people on one side of the wall are believed to represent Pok ta Pok ball players. 

The Venus Platform

Venus platform at Chichen Itza - A small stepped pyramid platform with stone carvings of the serpent bird man/Kukulkan on either side of a staircase

Most historians believe that most buildings at Chichen Itza were once painted in bold, vibrant colors. (However, time and the elements have washed away most of the paint and so today, only the original grey color of the stones remains). 

The Venus Platform is a small platform close to El Castillo/The Temple of Kukulkan. It was likely used for dances, ceremonies, and rituals and is believed to have been painted in red, blue, green, and black. 

On one of its panels, is a carving that depicts the serpent bird man (Kukulkan or Quetzalcoatl). When the structure was excavated, archeologists found a severed human skull here which was most likely placed on the platform as an offering to the Mayan Gods.  

Sacbe/Sacbeob 

Sacbeob were white-paved roads that were built by the ancient Mayan to connect various structures and plazas in different cities together. They also ran between cities – like from Uxmal to Kabah, etc. 

There are more than 74 sacbeob at Chichen Itza. This is interesting because the Ancient Mayans started creating paved roads well before European civilizations did. 

The Temple of the Bearded Man 

The Temple of the Bearded Man is one of the best-preserved buildings close to the Great Ballcourt at Chichen Itza. It is also known as the north temple of the great ball court and the 10m long, 6m wide structure sits on top of a platform measuring 14 m long and 8 m wide. 

The temple only consists of one room, but at its rear and in its interior, you will note several detailed friezes that depict scenes of everyday life in the Ancient Yucatan, as well as various representations of Kukulkan/Quetzalcoatl sitting on a jade throne. 

The Marketplace 

Ruins of El Mercado/The marketplace at Chichen Itza: stone steps and ancient columns

El Mercado/The Marketplace is a building in the southernmost part of the Chichen Itza site. It sits atop a platform 266 feet long and 49 feet wide and boasts row after row of tall pillars that alternate between rounded pillars and square pillars. 

Although the original purpose of this structure has been lost in time, a popular theory is that it had a commercial purpose and was used for trade. The site was built between 900 and 1200 AD in the Maya – Toltec style. 

Where to Stay Near Chichen Itza 

The Hacienda Chichen Resort & Yaxin Spa - yellow hacienda building surrounded by palm trees and lush tropical vegetation in the Chichen Itza hotel zone

If you want to be one of the first people at the Chichen Itza site when it opens at 8 am and avoid the crowds, it is a good idea to spend the night before your visit at one of the hotels or Yucatan haciendas nearby.

There are some great hotels near Chichen Itza that are located within the archeological complex and some even have an exclusive entrance to the ruins for their guests. We stayed at the luxurious Hacienda Chichen Resort & Yaxkin Spa which meant that we were right outside the entrance to the archeological site and were literally the first people inside. 

There are also plenty of budget-friendly options in the nearby village of Piste. If you opt to stay here, you have a plethora of excellent restaurants, bars, and supermarkets right on your doorstep for everything you could possibly need. 

Valladolid isn’t a million miles away either and is home to some very affordable and comfortable accommodation options. You can often find double rooms in modest hotels here for as little as $30 a night, but keep in mind that if you stay here you need to wake up a little earlier to allow for the 40-minute journey from Valladolid to the ruins. 

Best hotels near the ruins 

why visit chichen itza

An overview of some of the best accommodation options close to the archeological site is summarised below. Despite the fact that Chichen Itza is one of Mexico’s most famous tourist attractions, hotel rooms in the area are surprisingly reasonable and you can easily secure a comfortable room for between $60 and $100 per night, even during the high season. 

  • Hotel Ikaan – Rooms start from just $60 a night in this charming, rustic property that sits just off the Carretera Merida – Puerto Juarez close to cenote Ik Kil. All rooms have a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries, cable TV, and spacious balconies with breathtaking views over the Yucatecan jungle
  • Hacienda Chichen Resort & Yaxin Spa – Elegant rooms and suites inside this renovated, colonial-era hacienda offer an indulgent experience right within the Chichen Itza hotel zone. Guests are treated to a complimentary welcome cocktail on arrival, and the on-site restaurant serves farm-to-table Yucatecan specialties. If you really want to treat yourself, you can indulge in a spa treatment or a temezcal ceremony at the Yaxin spa.
  • Villas Arqueologicas Chichen Itza – You couldn’t possibly get any closer to the Chichen Itza site entrance than the Villas Arqueologicas Chichen Itza which is located within the Chichen Itza hotel zone. The rooms and communal areas celebrate the Yucatan’s heritage and culture and have been decorated with hand-carved wooden furnishings and indigenous artwork pieces. 

Attractions Close to Chichen Itza 

Visiting Chichen Itza and seeing El Castillo/The Temple of Kukulkan at sunrise

It is a good idea to arrive at Chichen Itza as early as you can so that you can avoid the crowds and the intensity of the midday sun during your visit. Allow 3-4 hours for exploring the archeological site, grab lunch in nearby Piste, and then spend your afternoon exploring one or more of the below attractions near the site.

  • Izamal – One of four pueblo magicos in the Yucatan state, known as ¨the yellow city¨ because all of its houses and buildings have been painted in the same bright shade of yellow. Home to one of the oldest convents in North America.
  • Ek Balam – An impressive Mayan city that was not discovered until the 1980s. Famous for its remarkably well-preserved tombs and stucco masks and the 95-foot pyramid of El Torre which you can climb in order to enjoy the views over the jungle canopy.
  • Valladolid – A charming town and pueblo magico home to centuries-old churches and convents, as well as interesting mercados and refreshing cenotes
  • Cenote Ik Kil – Gorgeous open cenote close to Chichen Itza
  • Homun cenotes – A village with more than 25 cenotes that range from cavernous cenotes to cenotes out in the jungle which receive far fewer tourists than the Instagram-famous Cenote Suytan and Cenote Ik Kil. 

Getting to Chichen Itza 

why visit chichen itza

Public transport links in the Yucatan are not the best in the world but with that being said, there are plenty of buses and colectivos that connect you from cities like Tulum, Cancun, Valladolid, Playa del Carmen, and Merida, with the Mayan ruins. 

With the Tren Maya train also scheduled to be up and running by December 2023, getting to the site is due to get a whole lot easier soon. If you are renting a car in Mexico , it is very easy to drive across the Yucatan peninsula as the roads are all well-paved and in excellent condition. 

If you are not nervous about the idea of driving overseas, this can be one of the best options for getting to the site as it gives you a lot more freedom and flexibility of schedule. 

The distance to Chichen Itza from various cities across the peninsula is summarised below. 

  • Cancun to Chichen Itza: 197km/122 miles distance. Circa 2.5 hours driving time 
  • Valladolid to Chichen Itza : 45km/28 miles distance. Circa 50 minutes driving time
  • Merida to Chichen Itza: 120km/75 miles distance. Circa 2 hours driving time
  • Tulum to Chichen Itza : 151.5km/94 miles distance. Circa 2.5 hours driving time
  • Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza: 185km/115 miles distance. Circa 2 hours driving time

Driving to Chichen Itza 

reclining Chac Mool at the Chichen Itza site

It is very easy to drive to Chichen Itza, whatever your starting point. Yucatan roads are excellent and have no potholes, damage, etc. There is a large parking lot at the site entrance, although you need to pay a small parking fee of around $60 pesos (circa $3 USD). 

It is easy to rent a car in Merida , Cancun, Tulum, and Playa Del Carmen and numerous reputable international rental companies operate here. Depending on the time of year that you are traveling, you can easily rent a car for prices starting from around $20 USD a night. 

I always recommend using the Discover Cars rental platform as it allows you to compare and contrast prices between different rental companies so that you can secure the best deal. 

Taking the ADO bus to Chichen Itza 

Taking public transport in the Yucatan is surprisingly convenient and comfortable. ADO and Autobuses Oriente run frequent services between Cancun, Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, Merida, and Chichen Itza. 

Some buses are more modern and luxurious than others, but all are generally clean, with spacious seats, bathrooms, air conditioning, and entertainment on board. Some even offer free wifi.

From Merida, you can take a direct bus to and from the ruins. However, from Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun, you usually have to transfer in Valladolid and the wait time between buses is often about an hour. You might find that it is worth spending at least one night in Valladolid so that you can break up the journey. 

This is particularly worth considering if you want to arrive at the site early before the tour buses arrive as, for example, the earliest bus from Cancun doesn’t get you to Chichen Itza until around 11.20, by which time the site is already heaving with sightseers.

You can buy bus tickets online via the ADO website or the ADO app (although it often glitches and won’t accept foreign cards.) Busbud is another alternative, although the site charges a small commission. 

You can also purchase your tickets in person at the ticket office. During the high season, early buses do sell out so it’s a good idea to book your seat(s) a couple of days in advance where you can. 

Amenities at Chichen Itza 

why visit chichen itza

There are plenty of amenities at the Chichen Itza Visitors Center that offer everything that you could possibly need during your visit. Although it is a good idea to bring plenty of cash with you so that you can purchase any souvenirs and trinkets that you may want to buy from the artisanal vendors inside the site, there is an ATM at the Visitors Center too. 

Here, you will also find a Starbucks Cafe and a couple of local restaurants serving sandwiches, tacos, light bites, and Yucatecan delicacies. There are ample bathrooms at the site – both in the visitors center and behind El Castillo, and the toilets are clean and in good condition. 

Be sure to buy plenty of water and make use of a sunhat and sunscreen as there is little to no shade throughout the complex. Since you are going to be walking around uneven terrain for at least 3-4 hours, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. 

If you get hungry/thirsty during your visit, there are plenty of little stores and shacks selling drinks, snacks, and ice creams. 

FAQs About Visiting Chichen Itza 

Visiting Chichen Itza: photo of El Castillo pyramid at sunrise

Do you have any further questions about visiting Chichen Itza? The answers to some frequently asked questions on the topic are detailed below. 

Hopefully, you will find the information you are looking for there. If not, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

Can I visit Chichen Itza on my own?

Yes. It is possible to visit Chichen Itza independently. 

You can simply buy your entrance tickets online or at the ticket office for the site. Once inside, there are plenty of information plaques outside all of the various structures and ruins which explain their history and original purpose. 

It is not obligatory to explore the ruins with the help of a tour guide. However, once inside, if you do decide that you want a little more context to the things that you are seeing, you can hire a local guide for as little as 600 pesos for around 3 hours. 

Is Chichen Itza worth the money?

Visiting Chichen Itza is well worth the money, even if the site is easily one of the most expensive things that you can do in the Yucatan .  The Chichen Itza entrance fee is currently $571 pesos which works out to around $33 USD or £26. 

This is substantially more expensive than some of the lesser-known ruins in the Yucatan like Edzna and Xcambo which are only around 80 pesos to enter. However, when you visit Chichen Itza, you are not visiting just any old ruins, you are visiting one of the seven wonders of the world and one of the most important cities of the Mayan civilization. 

If you only visit one Mayan city during your time in the Yucatan, you should make it this one. You can easily spend half a day here and it will certainly be something that you remember for a long time. 

What is the best time of year to visit Chichen Itza?

It is possible to visit Chichen Itza all year round and there is arguably no such time as a bad time to visit. However, as someone who lives in the Yucatan, I would say that the best months are November and March/April. 

This is because the peak tourist season here runs between December and March and as crowds flock to the resorts along the Riviera Mayan, hordes of people take day trips to Chichen Itza. You have a very small window of opportunity very early in the morning (From 8 am to 8.30 am) to enjoy some rare quiet at the site before the tour groups arrive. 

From May onwards, it gets incredibly hot and humid in the Yucatan, and spending extended periods of time outside can often feel unbearable. From June to October, it is the hurricane season in this part of the world and although showers usually don’t go on all day, you can expect a lot of heavy downpours in August and September and there is no place to take cover at the site. 

How much time do you need at Chichen Itza?

You should allow at least 3-4 hours for exploring Chichen Itza as the site is vast. 

What is the least crowded day at Chichen Itza?

Since Chichen Itza is one of the most visited tourist sites in Mexico, thousands of people pass through its gates every day so it is hard to find a day when the site isn’t busy. Still, weekdays are definitely better than weekends, and Sundays are best avoided where possible. 

(Most Mexicans work Monday to Saturday and the site is free for Mexicans on Sundays which usually means it is more crowded than ever). 

What is the busiest day at Chichen Itza? 

Sundays are the busiest day at Chichen Itza as admission is free for Mexicans on this day and locals are all enjoying their day off work. Visiting the ruins on this date is best avoided if possible.

Public holidays like Benito Juarez’s birthday, Semana Santa (Easter), etc, can also be quite busy. 

Can you climb the structures at Chichén Itzá?

No. It is no longer permitted to climb the structures at Chichen Itza – both for their preservation and for your safety. 

In the past, this was allowed but decades of tourists clambering up and down the stairways of the temples and pyramids has caused the stones to wear down and become slippery. In 2006, a woman sadly slipped and fell to her death when climbing down El Castillo, and climbing the ruins has been prohibited ever since. 

Is there a limit to how many people can visit Chichen Itza each day?

No. I have seen various websites and sources online state that only 3,000 people are permitted to enter Chichen Itza each day but as someone who lives nearby and has visited the site numerous times, I can tell you that that is completely false. 

This seems to be something that people regurgitate to try and sell you tours etc that they get commission for. Please don’t worry about it as you are never going to be turned away from the site because they reached their maximum number of admissions for the day. That’s nonsense. 

Do you need a guide at Chichen Itza? 

It is not compulsory to have a guide at Chichen Itza and there is plenty of free information on the info boards throughout the site. That being said, if you have a keen interest in Mayan history, guides are very reasonably priced and it might be a worthwhile thing for you to consider. 

Final thoughts on visiting Chichen Itza

why visit chichen itza

Visiting Chichen Itza is a highlight of visiting the Mexican Yucatan. Even if you have already visited countless other Mayan and Aztec ruins during your time in Latin America, nothing can compare to seeing the ancient city’s famous pyramid with your own eyes for the very first time. 

Are you traveling to Mexico for the first time? I live just a couple of hours from Chichen Itza, in the beautiful colonial city of Merida where I’ve been based for the last two years.

If you have any questions about planning a trip here, feel free to reach out to me. You might also find this guide to safety in the Yucatan, or this post on the best time to visit the Yucatan useful.

Safe travels! Buen Viaje! Melissa xo 

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Melissa Douglas

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How to Visit Chichén Itzá (Yucatan): The Definitive Guide

Chichen itza guide: everything you need to know ( 2024).

Chichen Itza is the most famous Mayan site in the world . It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the 7 New Wonders of the World .

It is also the second most visited archaeological site in Mexico , after Teotihuacan near Mexico City .

That’s why it’s very important to plan your day to make the most of your visit!

In this complete guide to Chichen Itza in Yucatan , I will give you all the practical information you need to organize your trip.

You’ll discover all the top attractions in and around Chichén Itzá , how to get there, my tips for visiting on your own or with a group , and my recommendations for the best guided tours!

So, are you ready to explore Chichén Itzá, find out where to stay , and see what else you can do? Let’s go!

  • Chichen Itza Guide: Everything You Need to Know (2024)

Visiting Chichen Itza: Booking tickets

Short history of chichén itzá, 1. the great plaza, 2. the pyramid of kukulcan, 3. the venus platform, 4. the tzompantli, 5. the temple of the eagles and the jaguars, 6. the mayan ballcourt, 7. temple of the warriors and the thousand columns, 8. the observatory, 9. akab dzib, 10. the sacred cenote, 11. the ossuary, 12. the house of the deer, 13. the nunnery complex, 14. the red house or chichan chob, 15. the noches de kukulcan show, 16. buying souvenirs in chichen itza, 17. swim in the cenote ik kil, 18. explore the balankanché caves, hiring a local guide: is it worth it, visit chichén itzá on your own (without an agency), 2. visiting chichen itza with a tour, where to stay to visit chichén itzá, how much do the tickets to chichen itza cost.

  • Which are the opening hours of Chichen Itza?

How long does it take to visit Chichén Itzá?

When is the best time to visit chichen itza, my tips for visiting chichén itzá, find the best flight deal to mexico, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

If you want to buy your tickets to visit Chichen Itza at the best price , without reading the article, (even though I suggest you read it for more insights and tips!), here is the summary table of the available tickets.

Click directly on the names of the tickets to book them:

Chichen Itza means “at the mouth of the well of the Itzaes” in Mayan. It was the name of the Itzaes who founded this city in the 6th century.

At the end of the 10th century, it was invaded by the Toltecs and then abandoned around 1250, for reasons that are still a mystery today.

But what we do know is that Chichén Itzá was the most powerful city in the whole Yucatán Peninsula!

It was so influential that even after its decline, it remained an important place of pilgrimage.

Chichén Itzá historia

What to see and do in Chichén Itzá

Chichen Itza is an important archaeological site where there are numerous buildings (temples, platforms, etc.), connected by sacbes , the Mayan roads.

Here are the best things to see and do in Chichen Itza :

The Great Plaza is the first thing you see and the ideal place to start your exploration of Chichen Itza.

Why? Because it’s the heart of the city!

That’s right, it’s where you can find the main buildings , with the impressive pyramid of Kukulcan towering in the center.

The Temple of Kukulcan , also known as El Castillo , is the most iconic pyramid of Chichen Itza and it’s in every picture!

It honors Kukulcan , a major Mayan god (the same as the Aztec god Quetzalcoatl ) who took the form of a feathered serpent.

It has a 9-level pyramid with 365 steps in total… Just like the 365 days of the year!

Its symbolism and accuracy make it one of the most amazing pyramids of the Mayan world .

A few years ago, a 66 ft deep cenote was found under the pyramid and more recently two hidden structures were discovered. It probably still hides many secrets!

The spring (March 20-21) and autumn (September 22-23) equinoxes draw lots of visitors, as a stunning display of light and shadow appears on the north staircase. It is said that it is the Serpent God who comes down to earth…

chichen-itza

There are two structures known as the Venus Platform , but the more famous and significant one is in the Great Plaza , not far from the pyramid of Kukulcan.

It is also called the Temple of Venus because it has carvings of the planet Venus, or the Tomb of Chac Mool because of a statue that was found inside.

Both Venus platforms were used as public stages for ceremonies, rituals, dances and speeches.

chichen itza plateforme venus

One of the important monuments to see in Chichen Itza is the Tzompantli , in the Great Plaza, right next to the Temple of the Jaguar and the House of the Eagles .

The “wall of skulls” was an altar where the Maya displayed the heads of enemy warriors as offerings to the gods.

This was a common practice among many Mesoamerican people!

There are no human remains, but you can see the many skulls carved in low relief (there are more than 500!).

tzompantli Chichén Itzá

It is the smallest temple in the complex around the Great Plaza, located between the Tzompantli and the Temple of Venus.

It is a platform that gets its name from its amazing carvings of eagles and jaguars eating human hearts .

Templo de las Águilas y los Jaguares Chichén Itzá

The Mesoamerican ballgame – Pok Ta Pok in Mayan – was a game played for over 3000 years in Mesoamerica that had ritual and political significance and served to settle different kinds of conflicts.

How was the game played?  The game involved hitting a ball (only with the calves, elbows and hips) to make it go through one of the rings on the court.

And it was very hard : the ball weighed almost 9 pounds, the rings were only 1 feet in diameter and were placed about 26 feet high.

The game could end in sacrifice to the gods, by burning, beheading or even removing the heart.

In Chichén Itzá there are 8 courts of this type, but the main one is considered the largest Mayan ball game court in Mesoamerica.

There are other ball courts at other archaeological sites – such as Edzná and Uxmal – but the one at Chichén Itzá is the best preserved I’ve seen!

The stone rings (where the ball had to go through), as well as the stands and players’ bench are in good condition, as are several carvings on the walls.

To the north of the court is the Temple of the Bearded Man where the elite watched the game.

The Temple of the Warriors , surrounded by “a thousand columns” is, in my opinion, the most stunning structure in Chichen Itza !

It is a pyramid-shaped structure where you can see – only from afar – a sculpture of Chac Mool and a table where human sacrifices were performed.

As for the “thousand” columns, there are actually only 200, but the name makes it sound more impressive 😉

chichen itza Templo de los guerreros y las mil columnas

El Caracol was Chichen Itza’s astronomical observatory , named for its shape (“the Snail”).

This structure, built around the year 900, was used to watch the sky and make important decisions for the city.

This observatory allowed the Maya to observe 29 astronomical phenomena (equinoxes, eclipses, etc.)

observatorio Chichén Itzá

Behind the Caracol, you can find the Akab Dzib or Akabdzib , which means “The house of the mysterious writing” in Maya.

This was probably the home of the Chichén Itzá administrator Kokom Yahawal Cho’K’ak.

The structure is quite large, measuring 177 feet in length. It has a central building with two rooms at the ends and 18 other rooms attached to it.

Chichén Itzá akab dzib

This was a sacred place where the Maya honored Chaac , the rain god, with ceremonies and offerings.

They threw gold, jade, copper and human bones into the water, some of them from faraway lands like Central America and Colombia!

Today, this murky, green cenote (not very pretty or clean) doesn’t look like much. But despite its appearance, it was the hub of religious activities in the whole region!

Many people mix it up with the cenote Ik Kil , but they are very different.

The sacred cenote is inside the Chichen Itza site, linked by a long path to the Kukulcan pyramid, and you can’t swim in it.

Visit it if you want to see it from a historical point of view, but if you’re looking for a nice cenote to take photos , you can skip it – there are much better ones around!

The Ossuary, also called Tomb of the High Priest , looks like a smaller version of the Pyramid of Kukulcan , but with beautiful mythological carvings, such as the god Chaac and snake heads.

At the top of the pyramid, there is a vertical opening that goes down to 10 m underground.

It leads to a natural chamber where bones, shells and sculptures have been discovered!

This chamber might be connected to the cenote under the Pyramid of Kukulcan , but the passage is still blocked, so the mystery remains unsolved…

Osario Chichén Itzá

The House of the Deer is located south of the Ossuary. It gets its name from a painting of a deer that used to be inside the building, but has disappeared.

Unfortunately, there is not much left of the original structure.

The Spanish conquerors called this building the Nunnery because it reminded them of a convent.

But in fact, it would not have had any religious purpose, but rather served as the residence of someone important.

It is a Puuc style building – the same elaborate style that you can admire at Uxmal and Kabah – with many stone mosaics, amazing!

Conjunto de las Monjas Chichén Itzá

The Red House (Casa Colorada) gets its name from the traces of red paint found inside and Chichan Chob means “little holes” in reference to the holes in the upper part of the structure.

This small Puuc style temple is located in the Nunnery plaza, and it is one of the best preserved buildings in Chichen Itza .

It has a small ball court in the back.

Casa colorada chichén Itzá

Noches de Kukulcán (Nights of Kukulcan) is a night show of light and sound at the Chichen Itzá site.

The first part is an audio-guided tour (45 min) that takes you through the main illuminated structures.

Then, you sit in front of the pyramid of Kukulcan and watch the amazing projection show (25 min) that showcases the Mayan culture.

It’s a fantastic show, something you don’t want to miss in Chichen Itza!

  • At 7 pm in summer and at 8 pm in winter
  • You can buy your tickets online on the website (strongly recommended), or when you get to Chichen Itza, but you will have to wait in line.
  • Important : if you don’t have a car, there are no buses at this time, so you will need to book a tour or take a taxi.

Souvenirs are more pricey here than elsewhere – they know tourists will buy them anyway!

If you really want a souvenir from Chichen Itza, try bargaining with the vendors when it’s almost closing time (around 4 pm).

souvenirs Chichén Itzá

Ik Kil is one of the most beautiful cenotes in the Yucatan ! and it’s only 4 km from Chichen Itza.

When you get to the site, you are greeted by an amazing natural sight: a blue cenote that lies 28 yards underground, surrounded by walls covered with plants and long vines.

Unfortunately, it is also one of the most touristy cenotes , so, to be honest, it’s hard to feel connected to nature with so many people around.

But on the bright side, it has a variety of services : gift shop, lockers, changing rooms and a large parking lot.

You can reach the cenote through a stone path, and then you can choose to jump into the water from a small platform or use the stairs.

The cenote is easy to access for the whole family and there are ropes in the water that you can hold on to if you need them.

  • Entrance fee 180 pesos (with vest and locker), children 100 pesos, or with buffet lunch 400 pesos.
  • How to get to cenote Ik Kil : from the entrance of Chichén Itzá you can take a taxi or colectivo (20 pesos). From Valladolid , the trip takes 40 minutes, by bus (33 pesos) or colectivo (40 pesos) from Calle 39.

If you don’t want to worry about transportation, I suggest this tour to Chichén Itzá with pick-up from your hotel , free time at  cenote Ik Kil and lunch-buffet.  Book it here:

My tip Near Chichen Itza there are also other cenotes less touristic and easy to access:

  • Near Chichen Itza : Tsukan cenote, Yokdzonot cenote, Lol-Ha cenote, Xcajum cenote.
  • In Valladolid : cenotes Dzitnup, Suytun, Zaci, San Lorenzo Oxman. Read My Article About The 21 Best Cenotes In Valladolid !
  • In Cuzama (towards Mérida) : cenotes Chelentun, Bolonchoojol, Chacsinicche, Tzapakal
  • In the Riviera Maya : you can read My Article About The 15 Most Beautiful Cenotes In Tulum and the 12 Best Cenotes In Playa del Carmen

cenote ik kil

The Balankanché grotto , which means “throne of the jaguar” in Maya, is a few kilometers from Chichén Itzá.

This grotto was an important ritual site during the Maya-Toltec period, as it was seen as the entrance to the underworld where several gods lived.

You can go down to 10 meters deep and explore the inside through a path of more than 1 km.

There are several caves with stalactites and stalagmites, offerings (ceramics, jewelry, etc.), and a small light and sound show that tells the story of the place.

It is a nice and educational activity that I recommend during your visit to Chichén Itzá, especially if you go with kids.

But if you want more adventure, you can check out other Yucatan caves such as Loltun, Kantun-Chi, Tzabnah or Calcehtok.

  • The entrance fee is 146 pesos
  • Tours every hour: in French (10 am), Spanish (9 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm) and English (11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm).
  • Please note: inside the caves it is hot, humid and poorly ventilated, so the visit is not recommended for people with asthma or claustrophobia .
  • How to get to the Balankanché Caves : You can take a bus or colectivo (Pista-Valladolid route). The bus drops you off at the entrance of highway 180 (350 meters from the entrance).

gruta balankanche

In my opinion, yes, it is totally worth it!

A guide will make your visit to Chichén Itzá more meaningful, as they can explain its historical importance.

There are many guides around, but watch out for the prices .

The official guides are inside (after the ticket booths) and they are cheaper than the ones outside.

It costs 900 pesos for a guide in Spanish or 1200 pesos for another language. The service is for up to 8 people, so you can join others to form a group.

How to get to Chichen Itza?

My advice Chichén Itzá is the most touristic site in Yucatán . Many buses of travelers arriving at the same time and forming long lines…Don’t waste your time waiting!

To avoid the long lines and crowds , you can book your tickets to Chichen Itza with skip-the-line access here:

Getting to Chichen Itza by bus

The cheapest way to get to Chichén Itzá is by ADO bus, the best bus company in Mexico.

Buses to Chichén Itzá depart daily from several cities in Yucatán , here are the details:

  • Cancun to Chichen Itza (3h): departure at 8h45 return at 16h30. The bus stops in front of the entrance of the site and departs from the same place.
  • From Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza (3h40), departure at 8h and return at 16h30
  • From Tulum to Chichén Itzá (2h30): departures 6h30, 7h15, 8h15, 9h15, return 16h30
  • From Merida to Chichen Itza (1h50): departures at 6h30, return at 16h30
  • From Valladolid to Chichén Itzá (30 min): departures at 10h50 and 11h15, return at 16h30

Getting to Chichén Itzá with a rental car

Chichen Itza is located between Merida and Cancun , near the village of Pisté.

  • From Highway 307 , which runs along the Riviera Maya , you have to take Highway 180D .
  • The parking is 80 pesos.

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Yucatan and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Rentalcars.com, for a few reasons:

  • You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
  • Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
  • Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

Chichén Itzá is one of the main tourist attractions in Yucatán , so there are many agencies that offer tours to Chichén Itzá from different cities.

You have various options to choose from and to help you pick the best one , let me show you my 5 favorite tours to Chichen Itza :

  • Chichén Itzá + Cenote Ik Kil + lunch

This guided tour to Chichen Itza is a great option that includes pick-up at your hotel in the Riviera Maya.

You will start with a guided visit to Chichén Itzá , then you will go to Cenote Ik Kil , a beautiful natural pool where you can swim and refresh yourself.

After that, you will enjoy a buffet lunch with delicious local dishes and drinks.

To end the day, the tour will take you to Valladolid , a charming colonial city with colorful buildings and a cozy atmosphere.

Book the tour here:

  • Early access to Chichén Itzá (with no crowds)

Chichén Itzá is a popular destination, so it can get very crowded with tour buses during the day.

The best way to enjoy and take good pictures is to arrive as early as possible.

This morning tour is perfect for that, as it includes a transfer from the Riviera Maya to be among the first to enter and explore Chichén Itzá!

You will have a privileged visit to this amazing ancient site and learn about the Maya culture and history.

It also includes buffet lunch to regain strength before returning to the hotel in the afternoon!

Book the early access tour here :

  • Mayan tour: Chichén Itzá and Cobá

This one-day excursion will let you explore two of the most important Mayan sites in Mexico: Chichen Itza and Coba .

The tour begins with a transfer from your hotel in Cancun or Playa del Carmen in an air-conditioned van.

You will enjoy the guided tours in Chichen Itza and Coba which is hidden in the jungle.

You will also have the chance to swim in the refreshing waters of a cenote and end the tour with a buffet lunch .

Book this tour for a small group here:

  • Combo Maya Lands: Chichen Itza, Tulum and Coba

To make sure you don’t miss anything during your trip to Yucatan, here is a very complete tour that takes you to see the three most important Maya sites in Mexico: Chichen Itza, Tulum and Coba!

Th is full day tour includes pick-up at your hotel, guided tour in small group of Tulum, Coba and Chichen Itza , with swimming in a cenote and buffet lunch. Book it here:

playa-ruinas-tulum

You have the option of sleeping near Chichén Itzá , or in Valladolid o Merida depending on your itinerary.

Sleeping in Chichén Itzá

The advantage of sleeping near the site is that you can visit it from the moment it opens .

Here is a list of my recommendations, the best hotels near Chichen Itza , for all budgets:

  • La Casa de las Lunas : located in the village of Pisté, this is a small charming hotel that offers the best value for money in its category. Spacious rooms with kingsize bed, swimming pool and small garden, from only 40 usd per night!
  • Mayan Bungalow : small Mayan style bungalows in a beautiful tropical garden, very clean, excellent welcome from Luis the owner, delicious homemade breakfast included , from 7 9 usd per night!
  • El Encanto Villas Ecofriendly : rooms with 360 degrees views over the surrounding nature, offering great privacy, outdoor pool, good breakfast. From 135 usd per night!

Sleep in Valladolid

  • Candelaria Hostel : The best budget option in Valladolid! A colorful hostel that is very well located in the centre, with a garden, access to the kitchen, and a bike rental. Good breakfast options are also included, from 17 $usd for a bed in a shared dorm or 38 $usd for a private room.
  • Real Haciendas : A small, charming, yet very quiet hotel with a swimming pool , clean rooms with comfortable king size bed, and a very good welcome. Starting f rom 57 $usd per night.
  • IMIX Hotel : A typical colonial house in the centre of Valladolid on the beautiful Calzada de los Frailes , nicely decorated with spacious rooms. Breakfast included, starting from 127 $usd per night.
  • Le Muuch Hotel : A hotel located 5 minutes away from the main park Francisco Canton Rosado . Excellent service, with indoor and outdoor swimming pools with hammocks, rooms with garden view, air conditioning, and a bar and restaurant. A la carte breakfast included, starting from 140 $usd per night.
  • Hotel Zentik Project : This is definitely one of my favorite hotels in Mexico and the best hotel in Valladolid ! Beautiful Mayan-style cabanas with murals done by local and international artists. There’s a restaurant and bar, an outdoor pool with hammocks, and a saltwater pool in an underground cave . Very good breakfast included, starting from 380 $usd per night.

Sleep in Mérida

  • Nomadas : the best hostel in Merida with a very nice atmosphere, located in the center of Merida. It has a swimming pool surrounded by hammocks and plants, possibility of classes (yoga, cooking classes, etc.). Starting at only 18$usd per night!
  • El Gran Hotel : ideally located in the very center of Merida, right next to the cathedral. It is a very charming hotel, where time seems to have stopped with its colonial look and beautiful woodwork. There’s a restaurant, the rooms are spacious and the wifi works well. Good value for money, starting at only 59$usd per night!
  • Hotel Hacienda Merida VIP : this small, luxurious hotel is the ideal place to spend a few romantic days in Merida . Located in the historic center, it is an elegant hacienda-style building, illuminated by candlelight at nightfall. Here you will find a charming swimming pool, comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Starting at 165 $usd per night
  • Hotel Boutique Mérida Santiago : this is a small, comfortable hotel with a colorful hacienda look, modern and with a traditional Mexican touch. There’s a swimming pool with sun loungers and umbrellas. With excellent homemade breakfasts and spacious rooms, it is the ideal hotel if you are looking for comfort without falling into luxury. Starting at 197 $usd per night

hotel valladolid zentik

Practical information about Chichen Itzá

  • For foreigners : the total price is 614 pesos (you have to pay 2 fees: one for CULTUR and one for INAH. Keep your two tickets safe because you might have to show them in case of control). The entrance fee for foreign children up to 13 years old is 90 pesos.
  • 268 pesos for nationals , free on Sundays for Mexicans with INE.
  • Locker rental 200 pesos.

There is an ATM to get money, but I suggest having the pesos ready in advance.

Which are the opening hours of Chichen Itza ?

From 8 am to 5 pm, but access is closed after 4 pm.

The light and sound show is from 8 pm to 9 pm in winter, and from 7 pm to 8 pm in summer.

It depends on your pace and interest, but you can tour it in 2h-3h .

A guide will take 1h30-2h to show you around.

An organized tour will give you 1h-1h30 of guided tour plus 1h of free time. In total, you should plan about 6h-8h for a tour from the Riviera Maya (with transportation, visit, etc.)

On my first visit to Chichen Itza, I made the mistake of arriving around 12 noon with all the tour buses and under a scorching heat: never again!

For a pleasant visit, I recommend going in the morning at opening time , before 10 am, or after 3 pm when it is cooler and the groups have left.

You will enjoy the site more and take better photos without the crowds. You will also avoid the sunburn and dehydration that can ruin your day. Trust me, it’s worth getting up early to see this amazing ancient site and learn about the Maya culture. 😊

  • Get the early access tour to Chichen Itza here!
  • Be careful of the heat : the temperature can go up to 86-104F. The sun is strong and there are no shady areas , so wear sunscreen, a hat, light clothes and drink water!
  • Check what is included in the tour you are interested in: always read the details of what is included (e.g.: free or guided tour, optional activities, etc.) to avoid unpleasant surprises.
  • Don’t go on Sunday : it’s the free day for Mexicans and the place is packed (even more than usual!!!). If you can, better go during the week .
  • Remember that if you go on your own, the best thing to do is to buy these tickets with fast-track access to Chichen Itza you will save time and energy!

To find a cheap flight ticket to Mexico or a domestic flight , you can use our flight comparator, in collaboration with Skyscanner: it’s the guarantee to pay the best price!

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

  • The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
  • Yucatan Peninsula : Top 20 things to Do and See
  • Riviera Maya : The 35 Epic Things to Do!
  • Cancun : the 35 Best Things to Discover
  • Playa del Carmen : Top 30 Things to Do and See!
  • Tulum: 21 Best Things to Do + All My Best Tips!
  • Izamal : 11 Best Things to Do in Yucatan’s Yellow City
  • Mérida : 20 Best Things to Do and Must-See Attractions
  • Valladolid : the 25 Best Places to Visit!
  • Uxmal (Mérida) : the Definitive Guide + tips
  • Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
  • Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
  • Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca , Chiapas, Campeche , Yucatán and Riviera Maya
  • Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
  • Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
  • Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
  • Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
  • Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
  • Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
  • Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
  • Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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  • All our Guides about Mexico

Getting to know Chichén Itzá, the heart of the Maya Empire in Mexico

Jennifer Fernández Solano

Aug 11, 2020 • 6 min read

The Pyramid of Kukulcan at the ancient city Chich'en Itza in Mexico.

©Ole Steffensen/500px

The Maya have long awakened travelers’ curiosity on account of the many mysteries enshrouding this pre-Hispanic civilisation. For one thing, the city of Chichén Itzá  in Mexico was abandoned by its inhabitants – seemingly without explanation – centuries before the Spaniards arrived at the shores that would one day become the Yucatán Peninsula . 

The relationship between the Maya and spirituality, water and their notion of the underworld, has inspired many legends that archaeologists have set out to investigate – and several have proven true and given way to a deeper understanding of this rich culture.

The Temple of Kukulcan, also known as El Castillo , is on many travel bucket lists having been named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, but it is the complex as a whole that exceeds travelers’ expectations. Here's more about Chichén Itzá’s history and significance to help you get the most out of your visit.

A stone statue of man

What is Chichén Itzá?  

Chichén Itzá is a city where the Maya lived from around 550 to 1200 CE, although it should be noted that estimates vary greatly. While the Temple of Kukulcan is its most famous structure, it is certainly not the only pyramid or interesting building in the compound. Its sheer size is one of the things that sets it apart from other archaeological sites. It currently occupies about 4 sq miles (10 sq km), but its original size was probably closer to 10 sq miles (25 sq km). For this reason, it is believed that many more structures could be hidden by the jungle. At its peak, the city was home to some 35,000 people.

Archaeologists believe that a “sacred geography” led the Maya to design Chichén Itzá. There appears to be a correlation throughout Mesoamerica between the landscape beneath the earth’s surface and the Maya constructions above it. The pattern seems to be that structures are built near caves, tunnels or cenotes (natural sinkholes) .

Caves were important to the Maya cosmos – they're where eternal darkness reigned and important deities lived. If a balance wasn’t maintained between them, misfortune could occur. If, on the other hand, order prevails in that region, riches are bestowed on the land, such as rain. El Osario building, for example, is built over a natural cavern. 

El Caracol1.jpeg

Special features at Chichén Itzá

El castillo .

The Temple of Kukulcan, better known as El Castillo (“The Castle”), is the main building at Chichén Itzá. It’s 24-m-high and has a total of 365 steps – one for each day of the year. The temple itself is found all the way at the top and studies have shown that there could be a large body of water beneath it, which archaeologists take to be a cenote. 

El Caracol 

Known as “The Snail” on account of the spiral shape it hides within, El Caracol  is considered to be an observatory, with astronomy as its main function. Openings in its walls and dome face towards Venus and align with certain stars on specific dates. Interestingly, the Maya carried out their observations without any type of apparatus.

Temple of the Warriors

The Temple of the Warriors is flanked to the south and west by columns carved with intricate images of Toltec warriors – denoting the Toltec influence on the site – which belong to the adjoining Group of the Thousand Columns . A sculpture of Chacmool, the Maya god of the rain, can be found here.

shutterstockRF_306269954.jpg

The Ball Court

The ball court is considered the largest in the Americas. The ball game played by the Maya resembled modern-day soccer, except that the ball was made of hard rubber and weighed approximately 8lbs (4kg), and it could only be touched with the hips and the thighs. Legend has it that one of the teams was sacrificed after the game – although it has yet to be determined whether it was the winning or the losing team. 

Sacred Cenote

The Sacred Cenote was believed to be one of the entrances to the underworld. To the Maya, water connects life with the spiritual world. Long believed to be a spot where female virgins were sacrificed to the gods, studies have found that there are also remains of males and children, which points to this being an underwater cemetery where families honored their dead, probably in addition to this being a sacrificial spot.

What does its name mean?

Given the religious importance of cenotes – which, incidentally, were the only source of water in the area – it’s not surprising that two sinkholes found nearby are believed to have given Chichén Itzá its name. According to Encyclopaedia Britannica , Chi means “mouths,” chen means “wells” and the Itzá were the Maya tribe that settled in the area.

The not so literal translation is thought to be "At the edge of the well of the Itzaes," which is also fitting.

Palace of the Nuns.jpeg

Chichén Itzá’s connection to spirituality and astronomy

The Temple of Kukulcan owes its name to the main god of the Maya, Kukulcan, who is believed to be the Maya representation of Quetzalcoatl, the “feathered snake god” revered by the Aztec and the Toltec.

Kukulcan is the protagonist of one of the most important events in Maya culture: a light and shadow phenomenon created by pre-Hispanic architects based on the position of the stars. On each equinox, a light show representing Kukulcan fertilizing the earth and descending into the underworld can be witnessed for a duration of 45 minutes at the northern end of El Castillo. Undoubtedly, this is a grand display of the knowledge of astronomy held by the Maya, and it goes without saying that these are the busiest times of the year to visit Chichén Itzá.

Planning your trip to Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is currently closed on account of COVID-19 . Its reopening is contingent on the Mexican federal government’s guidelines, which follow a traffic light-style labelling system based on the saturation of hospitals in each state. Check the official Chichén Itzá website before planning your trip.

Best time to go

If you want to experience the light and shadow show, go on March 21 or September 22, but keep in mind that the complex will be at its most crowded. The sweltering heat is a constant throughout the year, but November through January will be slightly cooler. If you want to have the place to yourself to snap pictures you’ll actually be proud of, make sure you arrive very early (the site opens at 8am every day of the year) and be done by noon, which is when most tour buses arrive.

Foreigners: MEX$481 (around US$22; £17); nationals: MEX$202 (around US$9; £7).

How to get there

Chichén Itzá is 26 miles (42km) from Valladolid ; 76 miles (122km) from Mérida ; and 124 miles (200km) from Cancún .

Insider tips

- Consider picking up a couple of nice handicrafts at the many stalls found at Chichén Itzá. - End the day with a dip at nearby Ik Kil cenote. This place is stunning but it’s far from being a hidden gem, so make sure you arrive at Chichén Itzá early so you can also beat the crowds at Ik Kil. It’s a very refreshing experience after a day spent walking under the sun.

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Chichén Itzá: The Complete Guide

why visit chichen itza

 TripSavvy / Angelina Pilarinos

Chichén-Itzá

Chichén Itzá is a Maya archaeological site in the Yucatan Peninsula that served as the political and economic center of the Maya civilization between 750 and 1200 A.D. Its impressive structures which remain standing today demonstrate the Maya's extraordinary use of architectural space, vast astronomical knowledge, as well as their keen sense of artistry. It is a must-see site on a visit to Cancún or Mérida, although it is about a 2-hour drive from either of those tourist destinations, it is definitely worthy of a day trip.

The name Chichén Itzá roughly means "at the mouth of the well of Itza." The city was established close to several cenotes, water-filled sinkholes , and the final layout was established in 900 A.D. Chichén Itzá was a pre-Columbian city that was an a major regional economic power. Due to its location and port at Isla Cerritos, Chichén Itzá could obtain resources otherwise unavailable to Mayans like obsidian and gold. Chichén Itzá was a prominent Mayan city from around the 7th century through the 11th century when the city's decline began. The exact cause of the decline is unclear, but even when trade activities slowed and Chichén Itzá lost prominence, the city wasn't completely abandoned. When Spanish conquistadors arrived on the Yucatán Peninsula in the 1500s there was still a local population in the area and may have been a deciding factor in where the conquistadors placed their capital.

Things to Do at Chichén Itzá

On your visit to Chichén Itzá, you shouldn't miss the following features:

  • El Castillo: This is one of the most striking buildings in Chichen Itza. It is dedicated to Kukulkan, the Plumed Serpent. Every year on the fall and spring equinox the sun strikes the side of the building making a play of light and shadow which appears as a snake along the steps of the building. Excavations have discovered that the stepped pyramid was built over an older, smaller temple, and some experts believe that there is a hidden cenote underneath El Castillo.
  • Temple of the Warriors: Hundreds of columns surround a massive temple structure carved with reliefs. Square columns remain that once held up the roof of the temple. These columns are carved on all four sides with figures of feather-bedecked warriors.
  • Great Ball Court:  This is the largest known ball court in Mesoamerica, at 545 feet in length and 225 feet in width. Each end has a raised temple area. The acoustics of the ball court are remarkable: A whisper from one end can be clearly heard at the other.
  • Sacred Cenote: This sinkhole was the recipient of a great many sacrificial objects. It was a place of pilgrimage for many Maya. There was a belief around the 13th century that people thrown into the Sacred Cenote who survived the fall were granted the gift of prophecy.

Getting There

Chichen Itza is located 125 miles from Cancun and 75 miles from Mérida . It can be visited as a day trip from either location, and there are also a few hotels nearby in case you would like to arrive the previous day and get an early start visiting the ruins before the heat of the day sets in and the crowds begin to arrive.

Essential Information

The site is open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Time spent visiting the site generally ranges from 3 hours to a full day.

As of 2019, the admission fee for Chichén Itzá archaeological site is 480 pesos per person (for non-Mexicans). There is an extra charge for use of video camera or tripod on the site.

Visitor Tips

Dress appropriately: Choose natural fiber clothing that will protect you from the sun (a hat is a good idea too) and comfortable walking shoes. Use sunblock and take water with you.

If you visit Chichen Itza as part of an organized day trip from Cancun you will find that it makes for a long day, and you'll arrive at the hottest time of day. Another option is to rent a car and either make an earlier start or arrive the afternoon before and stay overnight at one of the nearby hotels.

Take a bathing suit and towel to enjoy a refreshing dip at the nearby Ik-Kil cenote after your tour of Chichén Itzá.

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Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information.

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Unesco social media, pre-hispanic city of chichen-itza.

  • Description

This sacred site was one of the greatest Mayan centres of the Yucatán peninsula. Throughout its nearly 1,000-year history, different peoples have left their mark on the city. The Maya and Toltec vision of the world and the universe is revealed in their stone monuments and artistic works. The fusion of Mayan construction techniques with new elements from central Mexico make Chichen-Itza one of the most important examples of the Mayan-Toltec civilization in Yucatán. Several buildings have survived, such as the Warriors’ Temple, El Castillo and the circular observatory known as El Caracol.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Ville préhispanique de Chichen - Itza

Cette ville sacrée était l’un des plus grands centres mayas de la péninsule du Yucatan. Tout au long de son histoire, qui s’étend sur presque mille ans, la ville fut embellie grâce à la contribution de différents peuples. Mayas et Toltèques ont laissé sur la pierre des monuments et des œuvres artistiques I’empreinte de leur vision du monde et de l’univers. L’extraordinaire fusion des techniques de construction mayas avec les nouveaux éléments venus du Mexique central fait de Chichen-Itzá l’un des exemples les plus importants de la civilisation maya-toltèque du Yucatan. Plusieurs bâtiments de cette civilisation subsistent, notamment le temple des Guerriers, El Castillo et l’observatoire circulaire connu sous le nom d’El Caracol.

مدينة شيشين ايتزا التي تعود الى ما قبل الغزو الاسباني

كانت هذه المدينة المقدّسة من أكبر المراكز التابعة لحضارة المايا في شبه جزيرة يوكاتان. فعلى مدى تاريخها الذي يمتدّ على 1000 سنة تقريبًا، جُمّلت المدينة بفضل مساهمة شعوب عديدة. فقد ترك شعب المايا والتولتيك على حجر الآثار والأعمال الفنية صورةً عن نظرتهم إلى العالم والكون. فالدمج الرائع لتقنيات البناء التي اعتمدها شعب المايا مع العناصر الجديدة التي أتت من وسط المكسيك جعلت من شيشا ايتزا من أهم الأمثلة التي تدلّ على حضارة المايا والتولتيك في يوكاتان. وما زالت عدّة مبانٍ من هذه الحضارة صامدة، لا سيّما معبدا المحاربين و"ال كاستيلو" والمرصد المستدير المعروف باسم "ال كراكول".

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

奇琴伊察古城遗址是尤卡坦半岛最重要的玛雅文明中心之一。在近1000年的历史中,许多民族都在此生活过,并留下了他们的印记,从当地的石制遗迹和艺术作品中,我们可以看出玛雅人、托尔特克人和阿兹特克人的世界观和宇宙观。玛雅人的建筑技巧和来自墨西哥中部地区的新元素融合在一起,使得奇琴伊察古城成为展示尤卡坦半岛玛雅-托尔特克文明最主要的地方之一。该遗址中有几个建筑被保留下来,其中包括勇士庙、城堡和被称为“蜗牛”的圆形天文台。

Ciudad prehispánica de Chichén-Itzá

Esta ciudad sagrada fue uno de los centros más importantes de la civilización maya en la península del Yucatán. A lo largo de sus casi mil años de historia, diversos pueblos la fueron marcando con su impronta. Los mayas y toltecas dejaron inscrita su visión del mundo y el universo en sus monumentos de piedra y obras de arte. La fusión de las técnicas de construcción mayas con nuevos elementos procedentes del centro de México hacen de Chichén-Itzá uno de los ejemplos más importantes de la civilización maya-tolteca del Yucatán. Entre los edificios que han sobrevivido al paso del tiempo figuran el Templo de los Guerreros, el Castillo y el observatorio circular conocido por el nombre de El Caracol.

古代都市チチェン-イッツァ

source: NFUAJ

Pre-Spaanse stad Chichén Itzá

Deze heilige plaats was een van de grootste Maya-centra van het schiereiland Yucatán. Gedurende zijn bijna 1000-jarige geschiedenis, hebben verschillende volkeren hun stempel gedrukt op de stad. De visie van de Maya's en de Tolteken op de wereld en het universum wordt geopenbaard in hun stenen monumenten en kunstwerken. De fusie van de Maya constructietechnieken met nieuwe elementen uit het centrum van Mexico maken Chichén-Itzá een van de belangrijkste voorbeelden van de Maya-Tolteken beschaving in Yucatán. Verschillende gebouwen zijn bewaard gebleven, zoals de Tempel van de Krijgers – El Castillo – en het ronde observatorium bekend als El Caracol.

Source: unesco.nl

why visit chichen itza

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

The town of Chichen-Itza was established during the Classic period close to two natural cavities ( cenotes or chenes ), which gave the town its name "At the edge of the well of the Itzaes". The cenotes facilitated tapping the underground waters of the area. The dates for this settlement vary according to subsequent local accounts: one manuscript gives 415-35 A.D., while others mention 455 A.D. The town that grew up around the sector known as Chichen Viejo already boasted important monuments of great interest: the Nunnery, the Church, Akab Dzib, Chichan Chob, the Temple of the Panels and the Temple of the Deer. They were constructed between the 6th and the 10th centuries in the characteristic Maya style then popular both in the northern and southern areas of the Puuc hills.

The second settlement of Chichen-Itza, and the most important for historians, corresponded to the migration of Toltec warriors from the Mexican plateau towards the south during the 10th century. According to the most common version, the King of Tula, Ce Acatl Topiltzin Quetzalcoatl, or Kukulkan as the Maya translated the name, reportedly took the city between 967 A.D. and 987 A.D.

Following the conquest of Yucatán a new style blending the Maya and Toltec traditions developed, symbolizing the phenomenon of acculturation. Chichen-Itza is a clear illustration of this fusion. Specific examples are, in the group of buildings to the south, the Caracol, a circular stellar observatory whose spiral staircase accounts for its name, and, to the north, El Castillo (also known as the Temple of Kukulkan). Surrounding El Castillo are terraces where the major monumental complexes were built: on the north-west are the Great Ball Court, Tzompantli or the Skull Wall, the temple known as the Jaguar Temple, and the House of Eagles; on the north-east are the Temple of the Warriors, the Group of the Thousand Columns, the Market and the Great Ball Court; on the south-west is the Tomb of the High Priest.

After the 13th century no major monuments seem to have been constructed at Chichen-Itza and the city rapidly declined after around 1440 A.D. The ruins were not excavated until 1841 A.D.

Criterion (i) : The monuments of Chichen-Itza, particularly in the northern group, which includes the Great Ball Court, the Temple of Kukulkan and the Temple of the Warriors, are among the undisputed masterpieces of Mesoamerican architecture because of the beauty of their proportions, the refinement of their construction and the splendor of their sculpted decorations.

Criterion (ii): The monuments of Chichen-Itza exerted an influence throughout the entire Yucatan cultural zone from the 10th to the 15th century.

Criterion (iii): Chichen-Itza is the most important archaeological vestige of the Maya-Toltec civilization in Yucatan (10th-15th centuries).

From its abandonment during the 15th century, Chichen-Itza underwent a process of gradual deterioration until the first excavations at the site began more than a century ago. Nevertheless, the excellent materials and building techniques used by the Maya in the construction of the buildings secured that the architectonic, sculptural and pictorial essence of Chichen-Itza would be conserved through the centuries.

Until today the elements that convey the Outstanding Universal Value of the property have been preserved. However, discoveries at the site that are not considered in the original protective polygon should be officially included. Furthermore, there are a number of threats to the integrity of the site, derived from excessive use or inadequate infrastructure development to provide services, which will require constant control in order to avoid negative impacts.

Authenticity

The condition of authenticity met by the site at the moment of its inscription was maintained. However, the use of the property as stage for unrelated cultural events has sparked a discussion concerning the impact of these activities on the conservation and authenticity of the site. In order to ensure that use and function, as well as the character of the site are maintained, enforcement of regulatory measures and protection mechanisms are required.

Protection and management requirements

Chichen-Itza is protected by the 1972 Federal Law on Monuments and Archaeological, Artistic and Historic Zones and was declared an archaeological monument by a presidential decree in 1986.

The site remains open to the public 365 days of the year, and received a minimum of 3.500 tourists per day, a number which can reach 8.000 daily visitors in the high season. This means that the site needs constant maintenance and attention in order to avoid deterioration of its prehispanic fabric.

Yucatan is the only state in Mexico where two institutions are involved in the management of archaeological sites: the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), which is in charge of the care and conservation of the archaeological site, and the Board of Units of Cultural and Tourism Services of the State of Yucatan.

The Board was created in 1987 in order to manage the Units of Cultural and Tourism Services of the archaeological sites of Uxmal, Chichen-Itza, Kabah, Sayil, Labna, Zibichaltún and the Caves of Loltún and Balancanche.

Medium and long-term activities at Chichen-Itza, including investigation, conservation, thematic interpretation, administration and operation of the site, are addressed in the "Management Plan of the Pre-hispanic City of Chichen-Itza". The purpose of the Plan is to articulate and coordinate the activities at the site, especially those geared towards the mise en valeur of the property and the generation of participation of the different sectors involved in the management, including the general public.

No emergency plan exists for the site and there is no long term monitoring of the state of conservation, due to lack of personnel. This puts the site at risk from natural and anthropogenic disasters, as well as from longer term degradation. Threats like fire and lime stone erosion have been highlighted. Sustainable implementation of the defined planning tools and the allocation of resources to conservation and management are necessary means to ensure the conservation of the Outstanding Universal Value of the property in the long term. 

  • Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia's website (in Spanish only)

Chichén Itzá

Get facts, photos, and travel tips for chichen itza, a world heritage site in mexico, from national geographic..

Chichén Itzá

Site : Pre-Hispanic City of Chichén Itzá

Location : Mexico

Year Designated : 1988

Category : Cultural

Reason : The brilliant ruins of Chichén Itzá evidence a dazzling ancient city that once centered the Maya empire in Central America.

The stepped pyramids, temples, columned arcades, and other stone structures of Chichén Itzá were sacred to the Maya and a sophisticated urban center of their empire from A.D. 750 to 1200.

Viewed as a whole, the incredible complex reveals much about the Maya and Toltec vision of the universe—which was intimately tied to what was visible in the dark night skies of the Yucatán Peninsula.

The most recognisable structure here is the Temple of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo. This glorious step pyramid demonstrates the accuracy and importance of Maya astronomy—and the heavy influence of the Toltecs, who invaded around 1000 and precipitated a merger of the two cultural traditions.

The temple has 365 steps—one for each day of the year. Each of the temple’s four sides has 91 steps, and the top platform makes the 365th.

Devising a 365-day calendar was just one feat of Maya science. Incredibly, twice a year on the spring and autumn equinoxes, a shadow falls on the pyramid in the shape of a serpent. As the sun sets, this shadowy snake descends the steps to eventually join a stone serpent head at the base of the great staircase up the pyramid’s side.

The Maya’s astronomical skills were so advanced they could even predict solar eclipses, and an impressive and sophisticated observatory structure remains on the site today.

This great city’s only permanent water source was a series of sinkhole wells. Spanish records report that young female victims were thrown into the largest of these, live, as sacrifices to the Maya rain god thought to live in its depths. Archaeologists have since found their bones, as well as the jewelry and other precious objects they wore in their final hours.

Chichén Itzá's ball court is the largest known in the Americas, measuring 554 feet (168 meters) long and 231 feet (70 meters) wide. During ritual games here, players tried to hit a 12-pound (5.4-kilogram) rubber ball through stone scoring hoops set high on the court walls. Competition must have been fierce indeed—losers were put to death.

Chichén Itzá was more than a religious and ceremonial site. It was also a sophisticated urban center and hub of regional trade. But after centuries of prosperity and absorbing influxes of other cultures like the Toltecs, the city met a mysterious end.

During the 1400s people abandoned Chichén Itzá to the jungle. Though they left behind amazing works of architecture and art, the city’s inhabitants left no known record of why they abandoned their homes. Scientists speculate that droughts, exhausted soils, and royal quests for conquest and treasure may have contributed to Chichén Itzá's downfall.

Recently this World Heritage site was accorded another honor. In a worldwide vote Chichén Itzá was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

How to Get There

Chichén Itzá is located near the small town of Piste. Bus services connect to the international airports at Mérida (under two hours) and Cancun (two and a half hours).

When to Visit

The ruins are open daily. Chichén Itzá's climate is consistently tropical—average temperatures are 34ºC. Spring and autumn equinoxes offer the chance to see the incredible shadow serpent of El Castillo—but the often crowded site is absolutely packed at these times.

How to Visit

Staying in the Chichén Itzá area allows visitors to visit early in the morning, out of the hot sun and without the company of the many tourists who arrive on day trip tours from Mérida and Cancun. There is also a light show on the site at night.

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The Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá

A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá

  • Chichén Itzá

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chichén Itzá is an ancient Mayan capital and the most famous of all the archaeological sites on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico.

Built between the 9th and 12th century, the sacred city is located 75 miles east of Merida , and covers an area of approximately six square miles where hundreds of buildings once stood. It is a beautifully restored collection of stepped pyramids, temples, columned arcades and other stone structures that were inhabited by the Maya  between 750 AD and 1000 AD. Its centerpiece is the magnificent Pyramid of Kukulcan (or El Castillo), which was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 and rises to about 100 feet. We highly recommend a visit as part of your vacation to Mexico, as it is a fascinating site with an interesting history.

How do you get to Chichén Itzá?

We suggest flying into Merida or Cancun and then taking our  Chichén Itzá tour or hiring a car. The journey takes around two to three hours by car. Our specialists recommend spending a full day at the site to fully explore without rushing. Spring and autumn equinoxes offer the chance to see the incredible shadow serpent of El Castillo but the often crowded site is extremely packed at these times.

Souvenirs at Chichen Itza

When is the best time to visit Chichén Itzá?

November to April is an ideal time to visit Chichén Itzá on a vacation to Mexico, avoiding the rainy season and the coldest months. You can find out more about the weather in Mexico in our practical information section. We would recommend staying at a hotel close to the site, enabling you to visit before the day-trippers arrive and when it's still cool. See our accommodation ideas further down in this guide.

What can you see there?

We recommend visiting with one of our guides who can show you the different parts of the site and explain the history of Chichén Itzá in more detail. The Maya’s astronomical skills were so advanced they could even predict solar eclipses, and an impressive and sophisticated observatory structure remains on the site today. Look out for the lizards and iguanas scurrying around the ruins.

Each year during the spring equinox a natural phenomenon occurs: the sunlight creates a shadow image of a plumed serpent descending the pyramid's stairs.

The sinkhole of treasures

At Chichén Itzá you can visit the spectacular Cenote Sagrado, a large sinkhole that measures 60 meters in diameter. All sorts of treasures have been found here including rings, necklaces, gold and jade objects, as well as the bones of young women that were thrown into the water as an offering to Chaac, the Mayan rain god.

The largest ball court in Mesoamerica

Chichén Itzá's ball court is the largest in the Americas. Measuring over 160 meters long and 70 meters wide, Mayan men played a game called Pok Ta Pok here. Anthropologists believe that the object of the game was to hurl a ball through a ring that was mounted on a wall, seven meters above the ground. Each team had six field players who would attempt to pass the ball — using any body part except their hands — to their captain who would attempt the shot using a racket of sorts. The captain of the team that made the first successful shot was then decapitated as a sacrifice to the gods. This was seen as an honor and guaranteed entrance into heaven.

All sorts of treasures have been found here including rings, necklaces, gold and jade objects, as well as the bones of young women that were thrown into the water as an offering to Chaac, the Mayan rain god.

Chichen Itza, Mexico

Did you know?

  • The name Chichén Itzá is a Mayan word: CHI (mouth) CHEN (well) and ITZA (of the witch water). Some say this is because people were often thrown into the nearby cenote as sacrifices, and those who survived were believed to be seers.
  • Its location is believed to have been chosen because there are two large natural sinkholes nearby, which would have provided water year-round.
  • The El Castillo pyramid has 365 steps — one for each day of the year. Each of the four sides has 91 steps; the top platform is the 365th.
  • Unfortunately you can no longer climb any of the temples or structures.
  • Chichén Itzá was more than just a religious and ceremonial site. It was also a hub for regional trade. But after centuries of prosperity and absorbing influxes of other cultures, the city met a mysterious end. Scholars place the demise of the city anywhere between AD 1000 and the 1400s, when people abandoned the city and fled to the jungle, leaving no written record of why they left.

Nearby sites of interest

The smaller and less crowded ruins of Uxmal , south of Merida and the barely restored Maya site of Coba  are worth a visit during a trip to Mexico. The town of Merida is also worth a visit and still retains its colonial charm. Built on the site of an ancient Mayan city, it has a rich cultural life, reflected in its diversity and many free concerts, performances and events held daily.

The pink flamingo sanctuaries and swimmable crystal-clear cenotes (sinkholes) are some of the natural attractions of the Yucatán Peninsula . The cenotes do get very busy though, we'd recommend the ones closer to Merida and the coast. The Sian Ka'an biosphere on the coast is also worth a visit. The reserve is home to jaguar, puma, ocelot, monkeys, turtles, peccaries and a huge variety of land and aquatic birds. The Mayan Riviera also has beautiful white sand beaches and warm, turquoise seas and the famous ruins of Tulum at the southern end.

What to pack

The Yucatán Peninsula can get very hot around midday so wear light clothes, a hat, sun cream and comfortable shoes as you'll be doing lots of walking. Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. If you take a private tour with one of our guides they will supply water.

Is there anywhere nearby to eat?

There are restaurants in the hotels near the ruin. We recommend Hacienda Chichén as it uses many home-grown ingredients but is a little expensive.

Places to stay near Chichén Itzá

Hacienda Chichen, Chichén Itzá

Hacienda Chichén

Chichén Itzá

Our suggested trip ideas for Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Highlights of Mexico: Mexico City, Mérida & Isla Holbox

11 days from $4,700pp

Palenque, Mexico

Classic Mexico tour

14 days from $6,140pp

Mayan pyramid in Tikal

In search of the Maya through Honduras, Belize, Guatemala & Mexico

20 days from $7,655pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

  • What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide
  • From tacos to tejate: Mexican food experiences to try on your trip
  • Family vacations in Mexico
  • Mexico’s Day of the Dead, demystified: a brief guide
  • Luxury vacations in Mexico

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why visit chichen itza

Visiting Chichen Itza: Everything You Need to Know

Ethan doyle white.

  • Last Checked and/or Updated 26 January 2024
  • No Comments

Chichén Itzá Entry Tickets & Guided Tours

Skip-the-line entry ticket.

  • Entry ticket only
  • No transport to the site
  • No audio/live guide
  • 1.5 hr Guided tour only

More information and/or book online , or select your visit date on the calendar below.

Guided Group Walking Tour

  • Entry ticket/tax included
  • Live guide – English/Spanish
  • Max. 15 people/1.5 hours

Day Trip from Cancun/Riviera

  • Optional hotel pickup from from Hotel Zone Cancun and Riviera Maya
  • All-inclusive option
  • 12-hour day trip

More information and/or book online , or select your date and options on the calendar below

Our most recommended activities for Chichén Itzá as listed above are supplied by GetYourGuide. More activities and guided tours to the archaeological Site of Chichén Itzá can also be found on GetYourGuide , Tiqets , Civitatis and Viator .

What is Chichén Itzá?

Chichen Itza is a ruined, pre-Columbian city. It was built and inhabited by historical Mayan people, descendants of whom still live in this part of Mexico. The city developed in the Late Classic period of Mesoamerican archaeology, around the 7th and 8th centuries AD. Over time, the city became a major economic powerhouse in the region, with much fabulous architecture built here to demonstrate the power and influence of its elite. Chichen Itza reached its apogee in the subsequent Terminal Classic and Postclassical periods although by the 13th century had entered a decline, with many of its elite buildings falling into disuse. The exact reasons for this fall are still the subject of archaeological debate and enquiry.

Although Spanish invaders tried to establish their own base at Chichen Itza in the 16th century, their plans were scuppered by violent opposition from the local Maya population. By the 19th century, jungle had overgrown much of the ancient city, creating a romantic ruin that helped fire the imagination of explorers and antiquarians alike. Archaeological excavation helped reveal more of the site in the 19th and early 20th centuries, after which several of the buildings were partly reconstructed to help capture their former splendour.

Although climbing the steps of el Castillo pyramid, or the temple of Kukulcán – one of the site’s most monumental stone structures, a walk around Chichén Itzá remains a treat for anyone with the slightest interest in Mesoamerica’s past. It really is little surprise that when a major international poll was undertaken in the early 21st century, Chichén Itzá was declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, having already been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.

Two temples at Chichen Itza, Temple of the Warriors and Temple of Kukulcán.

Where to Stay When Visiting Chichén Itzá

Hotels near chichén itzá.

There are also a number of very good hotels closer to Chichén Itzá. The nearby town of Piste itself has a good choice; one that gets repeatedly mentioned and is very favourably reviewed is La Casa de las Lunas . And even closer to the archaeological site there are more highly rated hotels, a 5 star hotel ( Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows ) and one 3 star hotel ( Villas Arqueologicas Chichen Itza ). Find more accommodation near Chichén Itzá on Booking.com .

Add Chichén Itzá to Your Itineraries & Travel Lists

If you are planning a trip to Mexico you can create your own travel lists (such as places you have been to, places you would like to visit) and an itinerary for your trip. These can also be shared with your friends and on social media. You can see how this is done by watching our Using the Itinerary video on YouTube , or reading the Using the Itinerary page .

For more sites and museums in Mexico, see our Mexico Travel Guide .

The imposing stepped pyramid at Chichen Itza on a hot day with a tour group sheltering from the sun under a tree.

Chichén Itzá

Attracting over 2 million tourists each year, Chichén Itzá is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico. Once a great centre of Maya civilisation that at its peak housed 35,000 people, it now survives as a series of monumental platforms, temples and a grand ballcourt. It was conquered by the Spanish in 1534 AD, but resistance from Mayan peoples prevented a Spanish settlement being established here. By the 19th century it was taken over by forest. Since 1988, Chichén Itzá has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Archaeology Travel Writer

why visit chichen itza

Every Steph

Visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico | A Complete Guide [2023]

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: April 11, 2023

Categories Mexico , North America

Visiting Chichen Itza in Mexico? Here you’ll find a complete guide to the Chichen Itza ruins – what to visit, how to get there + practical info and prices (2023).

What would be a trip to Yucatan without a day trip to Chichen Itza, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site? This archaeological site, built sometime before the 6th century AD, is definitely worth a visit.

I personally, after having visited quite a few Aztec and Mayan ruins in Mexico , prefer other sites such as Palenque and Coba because they are quieter, but the ever-present crowds at Chichen Itza don’t make this site less impressive. From wherever you’re staying in the Yucatan peninsula, the Chichen Itza ruins are easy to get to, and you should set apart half a day to visit the pyramids.

why visit chichen itza

Getting to Chichen Itza is pretty easy, no matter your budget or where you’re coming from. This super comprehensive guide will give you instructions for visiting Chichen Itza from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Valladolid. You can follow the tips below to get to Chichen Itza via public transport, with a rental car, or by booking a tour in advance.

Table of Contents

Best Chichen Itza Tours

You’ll find thousands of tours to Chichen Itza online, and choosing the best one can be a bit overwhelming. I’ve done the research for you, and these are the tours that offer the best value for your bucks.

➤ With over 1200 great reviews, the  Chichén Itzá, Ik Kil Cenote & Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour  is the top-rated Chichen Itza tour on Get Your Guide. This tour leaves from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, and Tulum. This Chichen Itza full-day tour includes pick-up from your hotel , all entrance fees, and a buffet meal. After exploring the grounds of Chichen Itza, you’ll head for a swim to Cenote Ik Kil. The tour will end with a short visit to the colonial city of Valladolid, which is definitely worth a visit. ➥  BOOK IT HERE

➤ If you prefer a quieter experience without the crowds, check out the Chichen Itza Early Access with Tequila Tasting . This tour leaves from Cancun and Riviera Maya. You’ll have to get up pretty early for this tour, but you will get to Chichen Itza by opening time, which means no crowds! You’ll enjoy a guided tour through the ruins. A buffet lunch is included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ And finally, this is the tour for you if you believe that two is better than one: Chichen Itza, Ik Kil, and Coba Small Group Tour . This tour leaves from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. In one day, you’ll be able to visit both Chichen Itza and the fascinating ruins at Coba where you can climb the main pyramid. The tour includes a guided visit to both sites and a swim at Cenote Ik Kil, plus lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

How to Get to Chichen Itza On Your Own

How to get from valladolid to chichen itza, • by colectivo (shared van).

why visit chichen itza

If you are traveling from Valladolid , a city near Chichen Itza, head to the Valladolid ADO bus station. Colectivos (shared vans) leave from right next to it. You can get there as early as 7 AM and you can catch the first departure to Chichen Itza. Valladolid is much closer than Cancun and the trip will take approximately an hour, so you’ll get to the ruins right at 8 AM when they open the gates.

If you want to visit the site with a guide, you can find official guides at the entrance when you buy your tickets, that you can hire a for a few hours.

⚠️ Looking to skip the line? Check out the Chichen Itza Entrance Ticket with Hospitality Suite . You’ll enter the site through a separate entrance, and when you’re done visiting the ruins you can use the Mayaland Hotel pool and facilities to relax after a busy morning. ➥ BOOK YOUR TICKET

How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza

👉 I’ve written a whole post about how to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza , but here below you can find some quick info.

• TAKE THE ADO BUS FROM CANCUN TO CHICHEN ITZA

why visit chichen itza

If you are based in Cancun , you can also take the ADO bus to get to Chichen Itza. The bus departs daily every hour starting at 5 AM (you can take it at around 7 AM) and it takes about 3 hours to arrive at the place. The ticket costs around 250 MXN, and you have to buy it directly at the terminal.

On your way back from Chichen Itza to Cancun, you’ll need to take the same bus that departs at 5 PM, otherwise another idea is to stop somewhere around Chichen Itza or Valladolid to spend the night. It’s really not a bad idea, considering you can go swim at the cenotes near Valladolid , or go visit Las Coloradas pink lakes .

• GET FROM CANCUN TO CHICHEN ITZA BY CAR

It’s totally possible to drive from Cancun to Chichen Itza (and recommended, as Chichen Itza is one of the best archaeological sites near Cancun ). The roads are pretty good and people respect the rules, so it’s an option I recommend since it gives you so much freedom. I recommend booking your rental car in advance online to avoid any scam.

I usually use  Rentalcars  to compare prices. The average rental cost per day is anywhere from 10 to 25 dollars a day for a medium car (four-door sedan), to 40 dollars for an SUV. ➥  COMPARE PRICES HERE

You can also check the prices right in the widget below.

The 180D Highway that connects Cancun and Chichen Itza is in great condition. It takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Chichen Itza.

The highway is a toll road that costs 600 MXN per way (about $30 at the time of writing), but you’ll save a ton of time. Keep in mind that credit cards or US dollars are not accepted, so make sure you bring cash in pesos. There are no ATMs between Cancun and the toll road.

Before deciding to come by car, it’s also important to consider the toll fees and gas money (depending on which road you choose to take to get to Chichen Itza) to make sure it’s the best choice financially speaking.

• VISIT CHICHEN ITZA WITH THE GO CANCUN PASS

If you’re staying in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or the Riviera Maya for a few days and are planning to visit a few parks and attractions, it might make a lot of sense to buy the GO Cancun Pass.

I explain in detail how you can use the GO Cancun Pass to save a considerable amount of money in this post – it includes calculations so you can really see for yourself that by using it smartly you can save hundreds of dollars. But why am I telling you this?

➤ The Go Cancun Pass includes your entrance ticket to Chichen Itza plus transportation from/to Cancun and access to the Mayaland pool and facilities where you can relax after visiting the ruins. ➥ BUY YOUR GO CANCUN PASS HERE

How To Get to Chichen Itza From Playa del Carmen / Riviera Maya

👉 I’ve written a whole post about how to get from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza , but here below you can find some quick info.

• GET THE BUS FROM PLAYA DEL CARMEN TO CHICHEN ITZA

➤ There is one bus a day direct from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza . It departs a few minutes after 8 AM and the ticket costs 428 MXN (approximately 21 USD) at the time of writing. The bus departs from the ADO station on 5th Avenue and the bus ride takes about 3 hours 40 minutes.

On the way back, the bus leaves from Chichen Itza at 4.00 PM. Make sure not to miss it as it’s the only one!

➤ If you’re coming from one of the hotels scattered around the Riviera Maya, you’ll have to take a taxi or a colectivo (shared van) going toward Playa del Carmen. You just need to stop one on the highway and tell the driver where you’re going (Playa del Carmen) – the ride won’t cost you more than a couple of dollars.

• GETTING TO CHICHEN ITZA BY CAR

Again, totally possible to drive from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza, but I do suggest booking a rental car in advance online to avoid any scams. I usually use Rentalcars to compare prices. ➥  COMPARE PRICES HERE

Take the new 305 Highway that connects Playa del Carmen to 180 Highway, which leads to Chichen Itza. Both are toll roads, the total cost is 344 pesos per way (about $18 at the time of writing).

The drive from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes. No US dollars or credit cards are accepted, make sure you have pesos in cash before departing.

Another option would be taking the slow road (a free one). You’d have to take the 307 to Tulum, head to Valladolid, and then take the 180 Highway to Chichen Itza. It will take you approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.

How To Get from Tulum to Chichen Itza

👉 I’ve written a whole post about how to get from Tulum to Chichen Itza, but here below you can find some quick info.

• TAKE THE BUS FROM TULUM TO CHICHEN ITZA

If you’re based in Tulum , you can take the ADO bus directly from Tulum to Chichen Itza . At the time of writing, there is only one bus to Chichen Itza a day, at 9.20 AM. The bus ride takes about 2 hours 35 minutes and the ticket costs between 194 and 294 MXN (approximately 9 and 14 USD), depending on the date.

On the way back, there is one daily bus from Chichen Itza to Tulum, at 4.30 PM. The ticket costs between 144 and 294 MXN (approximately 6 to 14 USD).

• DRIVING TO CHICHEN ITZA FROM TULUM

It’s very easy to find a rental car in Tulum. You can book your rental car in advance for greater peace of mind. ➥   COMPARE PRICES HERE

Take the QROO 109 road towards Coba. When you see the sign for Chemax, turn left to stay on 180 Highway. Pass Valladolid and keep going till you reach the Chichen Itza Mayan ruins.

The drive takes approximately 2 hours. This is a free road.

How to Get from Merida to Chichen Itza

• getting from merida to chichen itza by bus.

If you’re based in Merida, taking the ADO bus is a good option if you’re willing to wake up early. There’s a daily bus from Merida to Chichen Itza departing at 7.15 AM, which arrives at Chichen Itza at 8.20 AM, so right at opening time. Otherwise you can take the bus which departs at 12 PM and arrive in the early afternoon.

At the time of writing, the ticket costs 156 MXN, although it may vary depending on the promotions available.

On the way back, you can take the bus that leaves from Chichen Itza at 5.30 PM, which gives you enough time to check out Chichen Itza and Ik Kil Cenote.

• DRIVE TO CHICHEN ITZA FROM MERIDA

It won’t be a problem finding a rental car in Merida. In fact, I personally rented a car in Merida twice when I was living there for a month or so. If you prefer to rent a car online, here you can compare prices. ➥  COMPARE PRICES HERE

The road from Merida to Chichen Itza is very straightforward. Take the 180E towards Cancun, and in Kantunil turn left to continue on the 180D. Take exit number 79 and follow the signs towards Chichen Itza.

The drive takes approximately 1 hr 25 minutes. This is partially a toll road.

How to Get from Cozumel to Chichen Itza

If you’re staying in Cozumel , you’ll have to take one of the many ferries from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen, and then follow the directions from Playa del Carmen. Would I recommend visiting Chichen Itza from Cozumel in one day though? Probably not. I would definitely make it an overnight trip or part of a bigger Yucatan itinerary .

Practical info for Visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico

If you are planning to visit Chichen Itza, make sure you plan your trip ahead of time to make the best out of your day trip.

Where is Chichen Itza located?

The Chichen Itza ruins are located in the Eastern part of Yucatan state in Mexico, approximately 25 miles from Chichen Itza. The location of Chichen Itza in Yucatan Peninsula makes it easy to visit as a day trip. It’s indeed 2 hours 20 minutes from Cancun, 2 hours 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen, and 2 hours from Tulum.

What are the Chichen Itza opening hours?

Chichen Itza hours are from 8 AM to 4:30 PM daily.

How much is the Chichen Itza entrance fee?

Currently, the Chichen Itza entry fee is 533 Mexican Pesos per person (only applies to foreign tourists). The admission fee includes two tickets, one for the Federal tax, and one for the State tax. If you pay by credit card, you’ll have to make two separate payments.

Can I buy Chichen Itza tickets online?

I heard you can buy the simple Chichen Itza tickets online, but I honestly wasn’t able to find this option when I looked for it. At this time, though, you can buy the skip-the-line tickets here .

What about parking at Chichen Itza?

If you plan to rent a car and drive to Chichen Itza, you can find plenty of parking spots on the site and you should bear in mind that you’ll have to pay around 80 Pesos parking fee so you can be assigned a parking slot.

Can I find Chichen Itza souvenirs here?

why visit chichen itza

Trust me, you’ll have no problem finding souvenirs at Chichen Itza. On your way to Cenote Sagrado you’ll find tens of souvenir stands. Make sure to bargain!

Guided Tour vs Visiting Chichen Itza On Your Own

why visit chichen itza

I’m not the biggest fan of organized tours, but this is one case where I do recommend going with a guided tour if it’s your first time visiting Chichen Itza. A guide will be able to explain to you the history of the pyramids and tell you the stories that you won’t find on your Lonely Planet.

When you book a tour to get to Chichen Itza, it will usually include transportation, a skip-the-line ticket, food, and maybe a visit to a cenote or other attractions but, as you may imagine, it will cost more for the convenience.

I would recommend a Chichen Itza self-guided tour to those visitors who are either on a budget, or are really not into history and are ok with just knowing the information you can find on the panels or online.

I visited Chichen Itza in Mexico twice, the first time with a tour and the second one on my own, and I felt it was the right choice. On my first visit, I was able to learn about the site from an experienced guide, while on the second visit I took my time to wander around and take approximately a thousand or a million Instagram pictures. Both experiences were great in their own way, so it really depends on what you’re looking for!

On the “Best Tours to Chichen Itza” section above you can find a list of the tours that are worth your money and give you the best value for your bucks.

➤ If you’ve decided to go on a Chichen Itza day trip on your own but still want a more comfortable experience, you can buy a special ticket in advance that will let you skip the line, which sometimes can be really long. ➥ BOOK YOUR TICKET

A Brief History of Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins

why visit chichen itza

Now I want to tell you a little bit about Chichen Itza (nothing too long, don’t worry!) so you know what you’re going to see! Chichen Itza is an ancient Mayan city that was built in the middle of the jungle in the Yucatan Peninsula.

While it’s known today as a major tourist attraction in Mexico, it used to be the home to a thriving civilization during the pre-Columbian era and there are many historic accounts about how and when the Chichen Itza was built.

When was Chichen Itza built?

Most of the historic accounts point to the early 400 AD, but there’s also evidence that shows that the ancient structures were constructed a few years later (some citing the middle of the 5 th century).

why visit chichen itza

Why was Chichen Itza built?

While the date when the ancient civilization was built remains a debate, one thing is undeniable– the structures served as the center of political and economic power, and as the heart of the Mayan culture.

This is not a small place, the entire archaeological site spans 3.2 square kilometers, which means that there are more sites that could be unearthed. In fact, archaeologists have continued their study and research on the site in order to further understand how the ancient Mayans lived and what led to the decline of such a powerful civilization.

👉 Curious to know more? Here are some fun facts about Chichen Itza that I’m pretty sure you didn’t know!

What to Visit at Chichén Itzá, Mexico

When you visit Chichen Itza, you should explore the following famous constructions on the site to really take advantage of your trip.

El Castillo Pyramid (Temple of the Kukulkan)

why visit chichen itza

The El Castillo is the most important structure in Chichen Itza archaeological site, and what people refer to when they talk about the Chichen Itza pyramid. It’s in fact a pyramid structure that still stands today after all this time, mainly because of the restoration efforts they made at the site to preserve the ancient monuments.

El Castillo of Chichen Itza is also known as the Temple of the Kukulkan, and literally dominates the site.

This structure consists of square terraces that have stairways on all four sides of the pyramid and there are also sculptures of plumed serpents that run down the balustrade of this pyramid, which is really something you should look at closely.

why visit chichen itza

And if you manage to visit at the right time, the Chichen Itza snake comes down! There is a really amazing phenomenon that happens only during the spring and autumn equinoxes where the sun strikes at the balustrade in the late afternoon, particularly the northwest corner of the pyramid. As the light of the sun hits the balustrade, it creates the illusion of the serpent slithering down the pyramid.

why visit chichen itza

PHOTO TIP : You want to know how I managed to take pictures of the pyramid of Chichen Itza with no one in the background? I came here early! I spent the previous night in Valladolid , was at the entrance by opening time and rushed directly to El Castillo before visiting any other structure. I must say though that for the first full hour the complex was pretty quiet…after that, forget it!

Great Ball Court at Chichen Itza

why visit chichen itza

The Great Ball Court, also known as the Grand Ball Court, is another striking structure in the Chichen Itza Mayan city. This is the largest rectangular arena (about 2.2 times the size of an American football field!) that was used by the ancient Mayans.

It’s quite unclear, however, with what purpose they actually used it, researchers don’t know if it was used as a playing field or as a ceremonial site. Aside from the elaborate design that decorates the structure of the arena, this place is also known for its astounding acoustics.

Chichen Itza Temple of the Warriors

why visit chichen itza

This Chichen Itza temple is a complex with a large stepped pyramid that features numerous columns carved to look like warriors. This one is built on a large scale – it’s composed of 200 columns on both the south and west sides.

why visit chichen itza

Unfortunately, climbing this pyramid is no longer allowed. If you really want to climb a Mayan pyramid, you should definitely head to the Coba ruins though, where it’s still possible to do so (and honestly, the Coba ruins are pretty underrated in my opinion) .

The statue of the Chac Mool, which is considered a messenger of the Gods for the ancient Mayans, is located at the top of this pyramid. The Temple of the Warriors also features the same serpent design that you can see in El Castillo.

Cenote Sagrado (Chichen Itza Cenote)

why visit chichen itza

Another must-see site when you visit Chichen Itza is the Cenote Sagrado, or Sacred Cenote (or again Cenote Xtoloc in Mayan). This is a large cenote at the northern end of the archaeological site, valued for its archaeological and cultural significance.

It’s not spectacular like many of the cenotes in Mexico, and it’s forbidden to swim in the Chichen Itza cenote, but it’s an important cenote as it was the site of many ceremonial practices that were performed by the Mayans.

In fact, researchers believe that human sacrifice was performed at the cenote at Chichen Itza. Tons of human remains were in fact unearthed by the archaeologists during their explorations of the cenote and other structures within the site.

Chichen Itza Light and Sound Show

why visit chichen itza

Chichen Itza Light and Sound Show is one of the most special ways to visit Chichen Itza if you’re up for visiting at night. When the sun sets, you’ll have the opportunity to see the magnificent Mayan structures transform with dramatic lighting and 3D mapping projection.

This light and sound show retells the history of the Mayans in a unique fashion, in which impressive light and image mapping display are complemented by rhythmic sounds.

➤ If you’re interested in witnessing the show for yourself you can get tickets directly at Chichen Itza. You’ll start your day with a swim at a cenote, followed by a buffet lunch and a skip-the-line guided tour through Chichen Itza. You’ll then have time at Mayaland hotel to relax by the pool, before heading back to the ruins for the Light and Sound show. The tour also includes a light dinner. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Cenotes Near Chichen Itza Ruins

After you are done visiting Chichen Itza, you’re probably going to be hot and sweaty. Scratch the “probably”. Why not head to one or more of the beautiful sinkholes, in Spanish cenotes , by Chichen Itza, where you can relax and refresh? For me, there’s no better way to complement your visit to the ruins.

READ ALSO : 6 Best Cenote Tours from Valladolid [2023]

Visit Cenote Ik Kil near Chichen Itza

why visit chichen itza

Cenote Ik Kil is one of the most popular cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, partially because of its proximity to Chichen Itza. Many tours that visit Chichen Itza also include a stop at this cenote which is arguably one of the most beautiful cenotes in the region. 

Whether or not you book a tour to Chichen Itza or Yucatan Peninsula, this cenote is a must to stop. There is no doubt that you have seen photos of Cenote Ik Kil as it’s one of the most photographed cenotes in Mexico.

This cenote near Chichen Itza is an open sinkhole surrounded by circular walls that are covered in vines and branches. Those vines and roots that hang from the trees at the mouth of the opening of the cenote create a spectacular, and picture-worthy, look.

It’s always really busy, but if you visit Chichen Itza right at opening time and then head straight here, you probably won’t find the bus tours.

Cenote Ik Kil is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. As one of the most popular cenotes for tourists, there are plenty of tourist facilities on-site including a restaurant, changing rooms, lockers, and life vests for rent.

At the time of writing, the entrance fee to Cenote Ik Kil is 80 Pesos for adults and 40 Pesos for children.

Other Cenotes by Chichen Itza

However, Cenote Ik Kil is not the only cenote worthy of your time around Chichen Itza. There are a few others that in my opinion are even better than Cenote Ik Kil minus the crowds.

READ MORE: A Guide to 11 Incredible Cenotes in Valladolid & Near Chichen Itza

why visit chichen itza

Cenote Zaci is an interesting one because it’s located right in the middle of a city – Valladolid -, which is not the usual location for cenotes. This cenote close to Chichen Itza (45 minutes by car) is a half cave half-open cenote, and a pretty deep one. You can jump from one of the ledges if you’re feeling adventurous! The best part? You won’t find nearly as many people as at Ik Kil. When I visited in the middle of the afternoon, we were maybe 15 people total.

READ MORE : Cenote Zaci, Valladolid – Prices & Info [2023]

I’ve written many posts on this blog about my favorite cenotes in Mexico, so you can click on the individual posts for each cenote on this list to plan your trip. You’ll find info on how to get there, admission price and opening hours, and what are the facilities available at the cenote.

why visit chichen itza

The next one on this list is Cenote Suytun , which you might have already seen as it’s become Instagram famous in the last couple of years. With its man-made peninsula and the ray of light that at certain times of the day illuminates the circle, this cenote is definitely unique. Check it out for a chance to take some incredible shots.

why visit chichen itza

Cenote Oxman is one of my favorite cenotes near Valladolid . It might be because it’s inside a beautiful Yucatecan hacienda, or maybe because even if it’s just a 20-minutes bike ride from Valladolid, you can easily have the cenote all for yourself as it doesn’t seem to be as popular as others. I don’t really understand why, because Cenote Oxman is so beautiful!

READ MORE : Why You Shouldn’t Miss Cenote Oxman

Here it’s a short video I took of Cenote Oxman.

And finally, Cenote Samula and Xkeken .

why visit chichen itza

What’s better than one cenote? Two cenotes, of course! Cenote Samula and Xkeken are right next to each other, and it’s worth visiting both. They are both enchanting, with tree vines dangling from the sky, a dim sunlight from the top, and blue water… they are definitely worth your time.

READ MORE : Cenote Samula: A Magical Spot Near Valladolid Cenote Xkeken: All You Need to Know

Best Time to Visit Chichen Itza

There are plenty of tours that operate within the Chichen Itza archaeological site. These tours come in masses so when they arrive, expect a huge flock of tourists on the site. To avoid the crowd, I recommend you to visit right after the site opens. This will give you a chance to explore the area without the huge crowds, as the group tours haven’t arrived yet.

Another option is to go late in the afternoon, right before the site closes (around 3 PM). The tours usually arrive around midday so you can go there after they have left.

It’s also a no-no to visit on Saturdays and Sundays as the weekends are typically when there is a higher amount of visitors on the site, but during the weekend you can find tons of Mexican tourists as well. Sundays experience the peak of tourist visits. The best day to visit Chichen Itza in my opinion is either Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.

What to Pack for Chichen Itza

To maximize your enjoyment of Chichen Itza and the archaeological ruins on the site, it’s important to pack a few essential items with you on the tour.

• Comfortable clothes : remember to wear comfortable clothes. If you visit during the summer, expect the weather in Chichen Itza to be hot and humid. Make sure you wear something that is lightweight, breezy, and comfortable. This will help keep you cool as you explore the ruins right under the sun.

• Good quality walking shoes : make sure to bring your trusted pair and don’t even attempt to break in your shoes.

• Sunscreen : again, do not underestimate the heat in Mexico so make sure you are protected from the intense heat of the sun.

• Hat and sunglasses : it’s also a good idea to pack other types of sun protection such as a hat and sunglasses. This will make it easier for you to explore the ruins without worrying about the heat. Plus, a hat always makes for great Instagram pictures!

• Drinking water : when it’s so hot, it’s very important to stay hydrated at all times. You can’t drink tap water in Mexico, so either bring bottled water or go sustainable and buy a LifeStraw or similar product. This is a straw that filters the water while you drink, so you can save money and plastic by filtering tap water.

• Bug spray or insect repellent . A bug spray or insect repellent is a must too. Remember: the ruins are built in the middle of the jungle so make sure you are protected from all kinds of bugs and insects that are present in this type of environment.

This is all the info you need to plan the perfect day trip to Chichen Itza. I hope this Chichen Itza guide was helpful, but if you have any questions, leave them in the comments below!

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you book something through one of my links I might get a commission, at absolutely no extra cost to you

Stefania Guglielmi

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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The 6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Chichén Itzá

To the north of the Yucatan Peninsula is Chichén Itzá, base of the Mayan culture and currently one of the most famous archaeological sites on the planet for its architecture and mysticism. Discover why you can not miss this wonder of the world!

Chichen Itza, World Heritage Site

In 1988 this archaeological site was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is one of the best preserved testimonies of the Mayan civilization, which served as a political and cultural center.

Temple of Kukulkan, Wonder of the World

Recognized in 2017 as one of the new seven wonders of the modern world, this building is the main one of Chichén Itzá, it shows the knowledge that the Mayans had about astronomy, mathematics, acoustics and geometry.

It has 18 bodies that represent the same number of months of 20 days each, four staircases, each with 91 steps, which represent the days of the haab (Mayan calendar) that when added to the platform result in 365.

It is worth to note that while Europe lived the Middle Ages in Mexico there was already a calendar with more precision than the Gregorian… Interesting, right?

The feathered serpent of light and shadow

On the days of the spring and fall equinox, March 21 and September 22, respectively, a solar projection consisting of seven inverted triangles of light is observed on the north stairway of the Kukulkan Temple, which make appear a snake shadow that goes down little by little to the head that is located at the bottom of the pyramid, thus completing the feathered serpent.

A similar process occurs during the lunar equinox, in the early hours of the full moon, but in the staircase of El Castillo building.

The song of the quetzal

This sound can be heard by making a noise of short duration, but with intensity, such as an applause or by playing a percussion instrument, at a distance of approximately 40 meters in front of the staircase of the main pyramid.

This acoustic effect was first discovered in 1998 by the American engineer David Lubman, also in 2004 Belgian scientists showed that waves bounced off the ladder produce a sound similar to the quetzal (sacred animal of the Mayas) and raindrops.

The sacred cenote

Approximately 300 meters from the pyramid of Kukulcán is the Sacred Cenote, which has a diameter of 60 meters and a depth of 15 meters, in which rituals and ceremonies were held in honor of the gods.

From the bottom objects of jade, gold, copper and pieces of fabric have been extracted, believed to have been thrown as tribute to Chaac, god of rain.

You can read too:  Places in Cancun Where You Must Take a Picture

The court that is in these ruins is the best preserved and largest in all Mesoamerica, measures 120 meters long and 30 wide, is oriented from north to south and is located north of the temple of Kukulcán.

Now that you know this info about Chichén Itzá add it to your list of places you must visit. We can’t wait for your review!

Don’t leave without reading:  Get to know Playa de Oro a traditional beach in Puerto Vallarta

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Piramide de Kukulkan, Chichen itza

The Complete Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico

Planning on visiting Chichen Itza, the great Mayan ruins during your stay in Yucatan? Keep reading for your guide to visiting the world wonder.

Visiting the ancient Maya citadel of Chichen Itza is a must on any Yucatan itinerary. Having held UNESCO world heritage status since 1988 and being one of the new seven wonders of the world you simply can’t overlook this monumental creation when in Yucatan.

This citadel was probably one of the largest and most powerful in the Mayan Kingdom and contains many temples, ball courts, platforms and civic buildings.

So why visit Chichen Itza? Visiting Chichen Itza makes for the most authentic glimpse into Mexico’s rich history.  There are many ways to visit this pre-Colombian site, however, the way you choose to do so will also have an impact on your experience here.

If you’d like the place to yourself and the opportunity to contemplate almost 2,000 years of history, peacefully, keep reading.

I’ll explain everything you need to know about visiting Chichen Itza in this Chichen Itza guide- without the crowds.

why visit chichen itza

*This post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you.

Chichén Itzá Mexico can easily be reached from Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Merida and the closest option, Valladolid.

In order to be one of the first people through the door, I’d highly recommend staying in the beautiful, colonial town of Valladolid for at least one night and making your way to the ruins the next morning.

If you’re travelling in from further away you have two options. Rent a car or join a tour.

You can also take a bus but note that you probably won’t be at Chichen Itza as it opens, if this doesn’t bother you then you can search here for the best ADO bus options .

To get the best deals on car rentals, I always use Discover Cars for the best deals in Mexico without any hidden charges. Feel free to search using the form below.

If you’d like to visit these ancient ruins in peace or to take a cracker of a photo with no people in it, you’ll have to get to Chichen Itza right as it opens at 8 am.

This way you can buy your ticket with no queues, simply breeze through the entrance and into the compound to enjoy it in its early morning light.

From 8 am, you’ll have about 2 hours to explore the ruins before the headphone-clad, umbrella-waving tour groups arrive.

If getting there at 8 am doesn’t work for you, try to get there at about 3 pm- by then most of the tour groups will have disappeared and it should also be quieter. 

why visit chichen itza

These two photos of the famous pyramid were taken three hours apart. The first at 8 am and the other at 11.00 am, as I was leaving. I also visited in the low season.

Chichen Itza main pyramid woman standing in front of

The Best Time to Visit Chichen Itza

Generally, the best time to go to Chichen Itza and Yucatan, in general, is the dry winter period. The months of November- March are cooler and dry making it an ideal time of year to visit the Chichen Itza ruins.

The summer months of June-October are hot, humid and rainy making it a little more difficult to visit. There isn’t much shelter at the Chichen Itza site so visiting during a rainstorm isn’t ideal.

The dry season, however, is the high season so you can expect many more people at this time. During the summer months, there are much fewer crowds.

I’d recommend choosing the shoulder month of March/November to visit Chichen Itza or if you’re flexible with time, you can aim to visit on a dry day in the wet season (it doesn’t rain every day).

Visiting Chichen Itza Need-to-Knows

↠ The entrance fee is 571 pesos ( $30/£25).  You also have to pay for parking if you visit in your own rental car. Parking right next to the entrance costs an additional 80 pesos.

Chichen Itza opening hours are from 8 am-5 pm.

It’s located 40km to the West of Valladolid, 200km from Cancun and 123km from Merida. 

How much time to visit Chichen Itza? Allow for about 2-3 hours to see the site well.

For the latest information on rules and regulations check the Chichen Itza official website here .

There is a way to enter Chichen Itza before it officially opens at 8 am but the only way is with a tour. Check out this tour here that gives your early access to the site .

Getting to Chichen Itza Mexico

The most budget-friendly way of getting to Chichen Itza is by colectivo (shared minivan) from Valladolid. They leave when full from a little car park on Calle 39 between Calles 44 and 46.

The first one leaves at about 7 am. If you leave then, you’ll get to Chichen Itza as it opens, beating most of the souvenir sellers to their posts. The colectivo costs 35 pesos ($2) each way. 

On the way back you can simply hail one down from the car park from where they dropped you off. They pass through every 20 minutes or so.  Note that not all drivers work on a Sunday, therefore there is a reduced service.

Renting a car is the fastest and best way to get to Chichen Itza and this way you can fully control your arrival time.

There are many rental agencies in Tulum, Cancun and Playa Del Carmen. My personal choice is Discover Cars as they offer some of the best deals around. They are reputable and provide a great service.

Book a car in Mexico with Discover Cars here

If you prefer the ease of a tour to Chichen Itza, there are many that can be booked from Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Tulum.

Tours are great as you really get to know the Maya ruins through the knowledgeable Chichen Itza tour guide on hand to explain the history of the site and the Mayan way of life.

Just try to book with operators which promise the earliest arrival time.

Read more: Valladolid to Chichen Itza – How to Get to the World Wonder

visiting Chichen Itza Mexico

Top Tips for Visiting Chichen Itza

↠ Wear comfortable shoes – probably my biggest Chichen Itza travel tip this goes without saying- the Chichen Itza grounds are pretty big and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Make sure to visit Chichen Itza comfortably.

↠ You won’t be able to use your tripod. Tripods aren’t allowed at Chichen Itza even small gorilla pods. They are seen as professional equipment and you’ll need special permission to use one at the site. It’s best to leave your tripod at home. There is nothing stopping you from using a tree or a friend’s shoulder, however.

↠ Bring your own drinks and snacks but leave them in the car (or hide them deep in your bag). Food from sellers around Chichen Itza is, as you probably imagined, dreadfully expensive by Mexican standards and not all that healthy so try to bring snacks and water with you.

Chichen Itza is also full of glorious green spots around the temples where you can sit under a tree, enjoy its shade and the birdsong around you and have a small snack.

Technically you aren’t allowed any food and drink inside with you apart from water so if you’re planning to bring snacks put them at the bottom of your backpack.

↠ Bring cash. Credit cards are accepted but discouraged.

↠ Consider the services of an official Chichen Itza guide – a guide to Chichen Itza can be hired at the entrance of the site and it’s something worth considering if you’d like to learn more about the history of the Mayans and this sacred site. 

Visiting Chichen Itza: What to See

So what can you see in Chichen Itza? Around the site of Chichen Itza, you’ll find many ruins of buildings that once were temples, civic squares and even sports stadiums. The most noteworthy places to visit in Chichen Itza are explained below.

There aren’t many Chichen Itza things to do as such, the main thing to do is to walk around and see the ruins while learning about the history of the Mayan kingdom here.

El Castillo

Also known as the Temple of Kukulcan, the Mesoamerica serpent deity, this 30-metre pyramid with the temple on top will be the first thing you see as you enter. It is now the most recognisable symbol of Chichen Itza.

During the weeks running down to the spring equinox, the pyramid casts a series of rectangular shadows on the western staircase giving the effect of a wiggly serpent descending the balustrade- a pretty marvellous way to evoke the serpent god on the temple.

why visit chichen itza

The Great Ball Court

Many ball courts have been found at Chichen Itza but this one just north-west of El Castillo is the largest and most impressive in ancient Mesoamerica.

At both ends, you’ll find temples and on the sides, long platforms with high walls. Two giant rings can be found in the middle with serpent motifs engraved on them.

The most impressive feature of the ball court is the acoustics. No doubt you’ll see guides with tour groups demonstrating them- in some places sounds can carry for 4-5 echoes. 

Also, look out of the bas-relief carving of a decapitated ballgame player and the many wiggling serpents representing the squirting blood from the wound.

The great ball court chichen itza

Skull Platform

Just behind the ball court don’t miss this impressive skull platform- a metre high platform depicting many stylised skulls.

chichen itza skull carvings

The platform of the Eagles and Jaguars

A low structure just next to the skull platform, the impressive carvings of which are especially gruesome, depicting eagles and jaguars feasting on human hearts.

chichen itza carvings

Cenote Sagrado

This cenote, or natural sinkhole, located to the north of the site was a Mayan pilgrimage site. During times of drought, people would make sacrifices to the gods, praying for rain.

Unlike the other beautiful cenotes in the area, the rather gruesome history and mucky green colour don’t make it an attractive place for swimming. 

cenote at chichen itza

Make sure to leave your comments and questions below about this Chichen Itza guide, I’d love to hear from you.

Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favourite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!

Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals worldwide

Booking.com  for great deals on hotels

Hotels.com  also for great deals on hotels

Get Your Guide  for tours and adventures around the world

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why visit chichen itza

Alex Wieteska

Alex Wieteska is a full-time travel writer and photographer. She has visited 50+ countries and lived in 4 long term. She's renowned for her ability to discover the world's most coveted destinations, chicest eateries, and unique accommodations. Her curated travel guides are read by thousands of people daily, whom she inspires to travel the world slowly and live more consciously. She visits every destination she writes about and handpicks all recommendations. Find out more about me

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Flossie McCowald

Oh, such fabulous tips! I haven’t been to Chichen Itza since I was a teen, but I really want to take my own kids there. Someday!

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Thanks so much. Hope to manage to get there again soon in that case.

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Alexandra Booze

Mexico is hands down my favorite country! I visited in 2018 but I didn’t get a chance to go here. Thank you for all of the tips on when to beat the crowds! Very helpful!

Great glad to hear it. It’s definitely up there for me too! Hope you get the chance to go again.

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Visiting chichen Itza with no crowds already sounds wonderful! Love this kind of places and the history behind.

Yeah it definitely is. Such a great place to learn more about the Mayans.

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Chichen Itza is absolutely on my bucketlist of things to do. And your photos are gorgeous!

Great to hear- I hope to get there someday! Thanks so much

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definitely be worth a day trip for the family and an excellent history learning opportunity! when is it better to go – in the morning or late afternoon so you can get some epic sunset insta pics?

Yes! So much history to learn here. No sunrise or sunset here unfortunately. It opens at 8am and closed at 5pm. Sunrise was too early and sunset too late. ;( To beat the crowds though and catch the earliest morning light arriving at 8am is a must.

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This is great! I hate crowds and love budget-friendly travel (who doesn’t?!), so I’m going to keep this handy

Yes exactly!! Thats awesome, hope you visit soon. It’s well worth it.

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How To Visit Chichen Itza: Guide For First-timers

travel guide to visit Chichen Itza

Have you ever seen pictures of Chichen Itza and wondered how to visit? This post will guide you through everything you need to know to make your first trip there a breeze!

We’ll cover tickets, transportation, where to stay, what to see, and more. So read on for all the info you need to plan your dream vacation to one of Mexico’s most famous sites!

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Mexican vacation, look no further than Chichen Itza.

This ancient Mayan city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and it’s easy to see why.

With its awe-inspiring architecture and rich history, Chichen Itza is a must-see for anyone visiting Mexico. But if it’s your first time visiting, it can be a little daunting knowing where to start.

That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide on how to visit Chichen Itza – so you can make the most of your trip! Keep reading for everything you need to know.

How to visit Chichen Itza

How To Explore Chichen Itza

It’s no question that visitors to the Yucatan Peninsula should take the time to go and see Chichen Itza.

You should know that the area is massive and it is more than just the one pyramid that is typically pictured in postcards or on social media.

Depending on how interested you may be in the details and how much time you will want to dedicate to roaming around, we suggest giving it at least 2 hours to make it a worthwhile visit.

While it was difficult for us to tour Chichen Itza fully with a small child, it was, nevertheless, very interesting and fun to go!

To enter you will need a ticket. Yes, you have to pay to see Chichen Itza! Tickets cost MXN$80 for children and MXN$533 for adults.

You can buy tickets online or at the entrance to the ruins. There is also a light and sound show in the evening for a higher priced admission.

2. Transportation

The easiest way to get to Chichen Itza is by car. The drive from either Cancun or Playa Del Carmen takes about two and half hours.

It takes an hour less to get there if you are driving from Merida.

Other options include shared taxis or bus. Getting a private tour shuttle is the best and most hassle-free way to do it (this was our choice and we loved it!)

Chichén-Itzá sightseeing

It may take a few days to visit all of Chichen Itza’s sites.

And if you want to spend even longer in Mexico (which we recommend!), there are several nearby towns where you could stay or do day trips from.

The “Pueblo Magico” of Valladolid is probably our favorite option because it has so much charm and character!

This town makes for a great base while visiting Chichen Itza because it allows easy access without any major crowds.

3. Accommodations

Our top picks for where to stay near Chichen Itza include:

  • Casa San Juan ($),
  • Casa Tia Micha ($$),
  • Hotel Posada San Juan  ($$$)

Once you have your ticket, it’s time to start planning what you want to see! Chichen Itza is a large site, and it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring here. 

Archeological Highlights To See

If you’re short on time, we recommend focusing on these three sites:

  • El Castillo (the Temple of Kukulkan) is the most iconic building at Chichen Itza, and it’s hard to miss.
  • The Ball Court was used for ceremonial purposes rather than sporting events, but how cool does that sound? Our guide mentioned that there is a theory that either the winning team or the loosing team may have been sacrificed, so that part is not cool!
  • Finally, the Observatory provides an unparalleled view of the surrounding area – you really can’t beat this perspective!

the Ball Court - Chichén-Itzá

In the same vicinity of the main pyramid are the Temple of the Warriors and Venus Platform so you can easily explore those without having to venture too far out.

If you have a little extra time, you should also check out Sacred Cenote which is about a 15 minute walk, round-trip. 

We didn’t get a chance to see it because we had to start heading back to Playa Del Carmen but hopefully will go back and check it our next time as it is one of the top things to see at Chichen Itza.

Should You Go With Or Without A Tour?

The short answer would be to go with a tour guide.

Unless you are purely there to see the structures and just take photos simply because they look “cool” you may want to actually learn about what you are seeing.

Some might argue that they can just learn about it online and that may work.

However, it’s just not the same as getting the information and connecting it to the site while actually being in it.

Mil Columnas structure at Chichén-Itzá

If you get a good tour guide, they will probably fill you in on some bonus information that may not be available easily elsewhere.

For instance, our tour guide went into detail about the four cenotes (one on each side) that surround the main temple (some are at a distance and may not appear on site maps) and how the waterways from those “wells” connect to one cenote or underground lake) right under the pyramid.

This is, perhaps, why the name refers to “at the mouth of the well of the Itza.”  

At the very least, it would be best to get an audio tour. This gives you both the freedom to enjoy the site on your own terms as well as giving you interesting information about this amazing World Wonder.

By the way, this was our fourth World Wonder. We have been fortunate to have see the Great Wall of China, Petra , and the Colosseum in Rome !

the best way to visit Chichén-Itzá, Mexico

Interesting Historical facts to know:

  • There are 4 cenotes, one on each side of El Castillo with rivers connecting to big lake under main temple. This is a huge difference when you compare Chichen Itza with Tulum Mayan ruins .
  • Girls around age 14/15 were sacrificed in wells during ceremonies. valuable items were also sacrificed in the cenote. Among some of the things that have been discovered are items made in places in South America like Costa Rica !
  • The main pyramid was originally painted red. As guests entered they were given a drink and hallucinogen to enhance the magnificence and splendor of this place. Other ways that visitors were rattled and intimidated were with the many skull carvings at the entrance where thy walked through. 
  • Sound carries well from the top of the pyramid. This was helpful when speeches were given to masses of people down below. Sound carrying far is also a characteristic of the Ball Court.
  • If you clap at the base of the stairs, the sound will echo and sound like the quetzal bird, which was an important symbol in Mayan culture.
  • Two times a year, during spring and autumn equinox , a shadow of a snake will be cast on the side of the stairs as a result of the design of the pyramid. As the sun slowly sets on those days, it gives the illusion of the serpent moving down the stairs where its head is sculpted.
  • The Temple of Kukulkan and nearby monuments were built by slaves.
  • There are a total of 365 steps (No, you cannot walk up the pyramid) at The Temple of Kukulkan representing the days of a year and the four sides for each season. In a way, the monument is like a calendar they used to help determine when to plant and harvest crops.

World Wonder of Chichén-Itzá in Mexico

Suggested Itinerary

We were coming from our visit in Playa Del Carmen , but this itinerary can also be utilized by those leaving from Cancun.

We ate breakfast and packed Petra’s breakfast to go in order to get out and on the road around 8:15ish am.

We wanted to get there early so that temperatures would be a bit cooler and to deal with less crowds.

Our goal was to stay at least 2 hours and explore whatever that time would allow us so that we could be back by 4pm.

Our tour cost $180USD per person. We used My Quest Concierge Tour for our private tour and transportation.

We brought Petra’s car seat to Mexico with us so that came in handy. The cost included the tolls along the highway that our driver had to pay along the way.

Mayan Pyramid - Temple of Kukulkan

For our on-the-go lunch we packed sandwiches and chips and we also packed food and water for Petra.

Be aware that there is no food option on the drive to Chichen Itza until you are about 20 minutes out in Piste area where you will have some local food options as well as a Subway and convenience store for snacks.

Also, there are no bathroom stops either!

The drive to Chichen Itza is pretty easy and flat with little scenery so we were ready with toys for Petra to keep her entertained a bit.

The key thing that helped us is that we time the drive to overlap with her nap time, so she was asleep a good portion of the 2 hour drive.

taking a tour to Chichen Itza from Playa Del Carmen

Quick Tips For Visiting Chichen Itza

  • Plan your time – know how much you want to see. You can spend anywhere between 2 to 4 hours there realistically.
  • Get there early (but late afternoon works, too)
  • Have cash handy
  • Eat outside . Food is limited to snacks once inside so eat at nearby Piste or Valladolid.
  • Get a guide for full experience
  • Dress appropriately . You will need: sunblock, hat, water, comfortable shoes/sandals – limited shade available
  • Be prepared to walk through lots of souvenir vendors (bargain if you want to make purchases)
  • It is stroller-friendly, but if you have a small baby, a carrier is more suitable
  • Do not to touch any structures or climb them

With these tips under your belt, you should be ready to go on the adventure of a lifetime.

From getting there early and wearing comfortable clothes with plenty of snacks and water, to going with an expert guide who can answer all your questions about this amazing site- Chichen itza is waiting for you!

Have any other questions? Let us know in the comments below so we can help out as much as possible before you embark on one of Mexico’s most popular tourist attractions.

Chichen Itza Travel Guide - Best Way To Visit

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why visit chichen itza

Taiss Nowrouzi

Hi! I’m just a California girl addicted to travel and adventure with a passion for art and dance on the side. Born in Iran, but I consider myself a citizen of Earth, adhering to the belief that “The world is but one country and mankind its citizen.” I strive to make a positive impact on everyone I meet and learn as much as possible from them. My degree out of college is in Marketing. However, I entered the hospitality business at an early age and worked my way up to hotel management. After about 13 years in that industry (5 of which I was a hotel assistant manager), I made the decision to move to Thailand and leave the 9 to 5 grind behind. My husband and I set off for a life of living abroad and hopes to continue traveling the world, just 3 months after our wedding. It all started with the two of us, along with our cat, together in Thailand. Can’t wait to see where life takes us next!

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Hi! We’re Rob and Taiss. We set off to live a life in as many places as possible. To actually live in locations around the world long enough to get to know the locals, the culture, and the food, not just a taste of it. More About Us

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Why Does Everyone Want to go to Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza, Mexico

Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins

Chichen Itza is certainly the number one tourist attraction (besides going to the beach here). Bus loads of people flow from Cancun and Playa Del Carmen daily to this Mayan site. More than 1.2 million tourist visit Chichen Itza every year. Why is this so?

Well a lot has to do with the semi restored extensive ruins at this site. There are many ruins that are just mere hills covered in jungle. How many people want to see that? Once you see one you have seen them all. At sites like Ek Balam and Coba you can see these “hills” that are really unrestored temples in addition to the restored pyramids. Today Chichen Itza has been restored and preserved as much as possible and the once wealthy city with a culturally advanced civilization can be experienced by walking around.

See our top tips to visiting Chichen Itza Maya ruins here in our video

Tours to Chichen Itza

Do you want to go on a tour to see this marvel of the world? We have teamed up with a tor provider that offers good prices to see these ruins.

Click here to check prices for tours and what is included.

What is there to see at chichen itza.

The main attraction and most identifiable is “ El Castillo ” or the castle which is 90 ft. tall. It has staircases on each side with 365 steps representing the number of days in a year. This pyramid was used  for  religious and astronomical observation purposes. It is also called the Temple of Kukulkan, after the feathered serpent god. Mesoamerican cultures  periodically built  larger pyramids atop older ones, and the Temple of Kukulkan is one such  example. In the mid 1930s, the  Mexican government sponsored an  excavation into the pyramid. They  discovered a staircase under the north side of the pyramid.  By digging  from the top, they found another temple buried below the current  one.  Inside the temple chamber was a Chac Mool statue (The Chac-Mool depicts a  human figure  in a position of reclining with the head up and turned to  one side, holding a  tray over the stomach. The meaning of the position  or the statue itself remains  unknown) and a throne in the shape of  jaguar, painted red with spots made of  inlaid jade. After installing a  set of bars and a locked gate to protect the  jaguar figure they allowed  tourists to come and view it, but in 2006 the tunnel  leading to the  temple chamber was closed to all but archaeologists.

Tip : A visit to Chichen Itza  on the  vernal and autumnal equinoxes will give you a fascinating view of the phenomenon between the sun’s light and the edges of the stepped terraces on the pyramid. This very brief shadow display will be on the sides of the northern  stairway a serrated line of  seven interlocking triangles that gives the  impression of a long tail leading  downward to the stone head of the  serpent Kukulkan, at the base of the  stairway. This makes the body of the snake visible.

The Observatory at Chichen Itza  is called  El Caracol (or snail in Spanish) because it has an interior staircase  that spirals upward like a snail’s shell. The first structure was  probably  built during the period of the late 9th century and  consisted of a  large rectangular platform with a stairway.  A round tower of  about 48 feet high was built on the platform,  with a solid lower body, and an  observation chamber on the top. The round,  concentrically-vaulted Caracol was built and  rebuilt several times  during its time of use in order to calibrate its  astronomical  observation capacity. The windows in the Caracol point in the  cardinal  and sub cardinal directions and are believed to enable the tracking of  the movement of Venus,  the sun and the moon and other  celestial  objects.

Chichen Itza observatory

Chichen Itza is  also famous for its Great  Ball  Court with stone rings 20 feet high upon two its walls.  Each of the northern, southern and eastern  sides  supports temples, which were probably used for rituals on the days when  the sacred games were played. There are sloping benches on the sides of  the court and  they were probably used to help keep the ball in play.  They are carved with  reliefs of the victory celebrations. One  of the  scenes, the beheading of a player in center field witnessed by the players of both teams, is one of the most dramatic examples of Maya art.  The  scene not only illustrates the danger faced by the players but  also the sacred  importance of the game.

Other notable buildings and structures at Chichen Itza is the Temple of the Warriors, also known as the Temple of the Thousand Columns. There is also a traditional Mayan house recreation to give you an idea of what the area once looked like. These houses were made of wood, clay and thatch roofs, so every trace of them has been erased with time.

Interesting Fact : Mayan houses were oval shape and hurricane resistant.

Chichen Itza typical Mayan House

On one side of the Chichen Itza is one of the two cenotes The  larger cenote is called “Cenote Sagrado”  or Sacred Cenote. According to  sources the  pre-Columbian Maya threw sacrificial objects and human beings into the cenote as a form of worship to Chaac, the Maya rain god. When  archaeologists dredged the cenote in 1961 and 1967 they found various types of offerings, including jade carvings, pottery, gold and silver  artifacts and even  human skeletons. The cenote was also considered by  the Maya to be an entrance  to the underworld and it is believed that  the sacrificial victims were venerating Chac Mool by entering this  underworld. Could these human sacrifices have been the downfall of the city? Did the water source become polluted? We don’t know for sure but it is important to be logical between mixing religion and your drinking water.

Chichen Itza cenote

Besides having so much to offer as far as restored buildings, Chichen Itza was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. This gave a high amount of publicity to the site. The government of Mexico knew this would have a major effect on tourist for the Yucatan and promoted the voting to elevate Chichen Itza to the new status. This has added thousands of jobs to people in the area.

Today Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the second most visited of Mexico’s archaeological sites. You can no longer climb the pyramid in Chichen Itza but you can at Ek Balam and Coba. Most people arrange a tour to come and see the site. It is a full day trip since it is about 1hr 40 min. -2 hr 40 mins. depending on the route the bus takes from Cancun and Playa Del Carmen. Most tours take in a beautiful cenote called “Sacred Blue Cenote” in Ik Kil and may stop in the colonial city of Valladolid . Tours usually allow a full two hours at Chichen Itza because it does involve walking  a lot and of course shopping for souvenirs.

Chichen Itza old photo

What to bring on tour to Chichen Itza

  • Bring bottled water with you. You can purchase food and water there but it is tourist prices.
  • Bring sun protection with you and that might include an umbrella for the large walking area at Chichen Itza. If you are planning on swimming in the cenote, make sure you have biodegradable sunscreen. The chemicals in regular sunscreen damage the fragile eco system and pollute the water which gets in your eyes.
  • Comfortable loose clothes and comfortable walking shoes will be needed.
  • And of course your camera!

Have you been to Chichen Itza? Do you have some tips you want to share? Let us know in the comments below.

Chichen Itza

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11 Comments

Hi, Thanks for sharing about this amazing and beautiful place. We loved going to Chichen Itza! Marvelous ruins.

Thanks for the post. We are planning to drive there ourselves from Playa. Appreciate if you have any tips suggestions and what is the admission price as well as any activities to do along at chichen itza

We have this other guide for getting to Chichen Itza and it highlights some tips and cost for you. If you need anything else, feel free to ask. https://everythingplayadelcarmen.com/chichen-itza/

It was a fabulous place to visit I was only there for a couple of hours and would love to return one day

I would love to go here. It is a piece of history that has bin around hundreds of years. What makes it so special to me is at onetime long ago the ppl that lived here and walked here and built this with there own hands and now we can walk and touch and visit the same place

Update for February 2019. Just went there and paid $80MX to park, $481MX admission fees complete. It’s gone up a wee bit since my last visit. Yikes!

There are credit card machines that issue tickets. Walk past the line, look to your left at the official book store. two machines that look like ATMs will let you purchase with a card.

I am getting pretty disgusted with the commercialization of the site itself. There were vendors lining every pathway and road inside the park. How about moving them out of the park proper and clear an area just for them to annoy people?

The price did just go up. It was a surprise to a lot of tour companies that sold tickets already at the old price. At one point they moved all the merchants out front but they entered again to line the paths. Uxmal is a good site and has no one selling things inside. This is a good alternative to Chichen Itza.

I have a question…..I am going to Mexico in September on a cruise and have a choice to Chichen Itza, Coba or Tulum. Which one should I visit on this trip. I’m kind of leaning to Coba since I can climb to the top. Any advice would be great. Thanks…..

Hello and thank you for your question. We would suggest Coba also as the best option. Tulum will be the closest ruins to visit followed by Coba. Chichén Itzá it a six hour round trip plus ferry crossings, so it is a lot of transportation time. Coba is fun because it is deep in the jungle and offers a great view from climbing to the top.

Is there a Visitors Center at CHichen Itza with maybe a gift shop that sells quality souvenirs instead of the “almost free” and “Just $1” crap the harrassing outdoor vendors sell? I visited Chichen Itza in 2005 and bought a lovely silver bracelet, but can’t remember if it was from a street vendor or an indoor shop. I do remember an indoor museum, but 15 years ia a long time to remember everything.

There are probably more venders around the trails at the ruins now. There are shops at the entrance also.

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Globe Guide

9 tips you need to know before visiting Chichén Itzá

why visit chichen itza

Holding the title as one of the new seven wonders of the world , it’s no surprise the Chichén Itzá ruins are one of Mexico’s top attractions. It’s believed the former Maya city dates back to as early as 550 AD, and once operated as the ceremonial centre of the ancient civilization.

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

As the towering El Castillo (also known as the Temple of Kukulcan) gets most of the attention, some travellers are surprised to find the site has much more to offer: think sacred cenotes, sprawling temples adorned with intricate stone carvings, and forests leading to crumbling ruins.

Here are nine tips you need to know before visiting Chichén Itzá, Mexico.

El Castillo. Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

1) Parking at Chichen Itza is easy

Unless you’re visiting as part of a guided Chichén Itzá tour from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, chances are you’ll travel by car. Some tourists choose to park for free along the side of the road just before entering the site, but keep in mind your vehicle could be at greater risk of dents and dings since the road is narrow.

To minimize the chance of damaging the rental car, pay to access the shaded lot right in front of the entrance which is only 30 pesos (about $2 USD)—a small price to pay for peace of mind.

RELATED:   5 tips for renting a car and driving in Mexico

El Castillo. Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

2) Time your trip to Chichen Itza

Timing is everything, particularly when it comes to seeing of the world’s most popular tourist attractions. With millions of people visiting Chichén Itzá each year, to say it can get busy is an understatement—particularly when the tour groups arrive.

The best time to go to Chichén Itzá is first thing in the morning when the gates open, or around 3 p.m. when sunlight bathes the pyramid’s main staircase and the crowds usually start to clear out.

It typically takes about two to three hours to tour the complex. Click here to book

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

3) Pack your pesos when visiting Chichen Itza

The Chichén Itzá entrance fee is 232 pesos for adults (about $13 USD), and in true Mexican fashion there’s a good chance the credit card machine won’t be working…oh, and they only accept pesos.

Ensure you have some of the currency handy, or seek out one of the vendors stationed near the entrance who can convert your USD to pesos—for a small fee, of course. There’s also an ATM on site.

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

4) Get a guide to explore the Chichen Itza mayan ruins

That entrance fee won’t get you anything more than the privilege of walking through the site, so if you’re hoping to have any semblance of an idea about what you’re looking at you’ll want to hire a Chichén Itzá guide .

While it’s possible to go it alone as there are plaques in front of some of the points of interest, there’s very little information is available about the actual history or significance of the sites. Your guide will be able to explain the astronomical theories behind the design of El Castillo, and why you’ll want to clap when standing under it (hint: listen for the echo). Tours can be booked at the entrance.

Click below to book a Chichen Itza tour:

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

5) It’s more than a pyramid

One thing most travellers don’t realize is how huge Chichén Itzá is. Sure, you could simply snap a selfie in front of El Castillo and call it a day, but then you’d be missing spots like the enormous Great Ballcourt where Mayan sportsmen used to compete. Or the intricate Temple of the Warriors. Or The Observatory.

The list goes on and on. Ensure you give yourself enough time to properly explore the complex—it is a wonder of the world, after all!

RELATED: Belize to Tikal tour: A day trip to Guatemala’s ancient Mayan ruins

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

6) Dress for success at the Chichen Itza ruins

Keeping in mind how sprawling Chichén Itzá is, proper footwear is crucial (read: no flip flops). The uneven pathways aren’t paved, and you’ll have to keep an eye out for errant rocks and sticks.

It can also be extremely hot, especially around El Castillo and the Great Ballcourt where there isn’t any shade. Be sure to have lots of water on hand, along with a hat, sunscreen and maybe even an umbrella to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.

El Castillo. Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

7) Don’t pack a swimsuit for the Chichén Itzá cenote

One thing you won’t need to bring along? A swimsuit…despite the promise of not one but two cenotes on site.

As soon as you see what colour they are, you’ll understand why they’re not exactly popular for swimming in.

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

8) Brace yourself for the salespeople when visiting Chichen Itza

It often seems like everyone in Mexico is trying to sell you something, and it’s no different when you pass through the gates for your Chichén Itzá excursion, despite it being a protected site. There are souvenir stands absolutely everywhere, selling the likes of t-shirts, wood carvings, shot glasses and figurines.

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

9) Eat offsite

After a long, hot day wandering around one of the greatest wonders of the world, it feels so good to sit back with a cold cerveza, si? There are plenty of spots to do so at the entrance/exit of the site, but here’s a tip: head just down the road to Pisté instead.

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

The colourful village may be just outside Chichén Itzá, but it’s inexplicably escaped the throngs of tourists and might just be one of the most authentically Mexican spots in the entire Yucatan. Best of all, there’s a fantastic family-run restaurant just off the main road called The Mexican Chicken, which serves up an entire spit-fire roasted chicken, rice and salad for only about $9 USD- a large enough serving to feed at least two people.

Considering a hot dog at Chichén Itzá costs about $4, it’s a no-brainer to head outside the gates and eat in Pisté.

Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá in Mexico

Chichen Itza hotels

There are some great hotels near Chichen Itza, and booking a spot in the heart of the action means you can be the first one through the gates in the morning and avoid the crowds. Top ranked picks include:

  • Hotel & Bungalows Mayaland : This beautiful property boasts outdoor pools, large rooms with private balconies and jacuzzis, and even has a private entrance to the ruins. Click here to book
  • The Lodge at Chichen Itza : This bungalow-style lodge is steps away from the ruins and astronomical observatory, and guests love the included breakfast, surrounding gardens and pools. Click here to book
  • Hotel Oka’an : This budget option is in the heart of the jungle, and its remote location gives a sense of serenity that guests love after a long day of exploring. Click here to book

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71 thoughts on “9 tips you need to know before visiting chichén itzá”.

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I’ve been here several times and would advocate for staying overnight. Last time my friends and I stayed at the Hacienda Chichen and hired a private guide. It wasn’t too expensive and we got in there well before the tour buses showed up

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Sounds like a great idea!

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Where did you hire your guide? We are staying nearby and want to hire a guide, but all the tours start from Cancun or Merida with transportation and we don’t need that.

There are actually guides right at the front entrance, so you can just show up and hire someone there. Enjoy!

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No, you couldn’t even pay me to get in that green water! And good tip about just wandering down the road a bit. It can be really tempting to just collapse at the nearest place any time you visit sites like this because it’s exhausting, but usually worth it to drag yourself on just a little more for better and less expensive food and drink.

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Having just visited Egypt last year, Chichen Itza is clearly on my list to visit next! One needs more pyramids in his life.

Great tips for a nice trip to Chichen Itza! Cheers.

That cenote does look a bit dodgy.

Wow, I’d love to go to Egypt- now that’s on my bucket list!

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I visited Chichen Itza a few years back and wholeheartedly agree with your recommendations. Most importantly, arriving early or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the bus loads of tourist that arrive mid-morning. As you pointed out, there’s a lot more to the site to explore aside from El Castillo. I loved wandering around the cenotes and other sites!

It’s a great site- I could spend hours there if it weren’t so darn hot! 🙂

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Wow!! Pretty magnificent. Would love to see the pyramids. Completely agree with you, it helps to have a guide who can help you understand what you are looking at. The green pools…yep, no swimsuit needed:)

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Great tips! Never been to Chichén Itzá but it must be an amazing place. To see those pyramids and all the history behind them must be incredible. Loved your tip to head outside and eat in Pisté. The Mexican Chicken sounds like a great place.

It was delicious!

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Considering I’ve never heard of this place, your article with these great tips will come in very handy. Looks totally amazing though and with these recommendations, you’re sure to have a great visit.

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Some great tips here. We visited Chichen Itza in late summer and the heat was nearly unbearable during the day. No matter shade or lots of water. Hiring a guide was definitely a help as was staying at Hotel Chichen, just steps from the entry to the UNESCO site.

Great to hear you enjoyed it Elaine!

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These tips are going to be very useful. I’m glad to know to have cash on hand in advance, and that I won’t need to bother lugging swimwear along. That water – EW.

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Two brilliant pieces of advice for all touristy places: Timing is everything and eat off site. I think these are 2 options you can use anywhere. Brilliant tips for this beautiful place, thanks.

Totally agree!

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Chichén Itzá is on my bucket list for a while now and I definitely needed tips like these, Tamara!

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These are great tips! We just got done making our own list.

We highly recommend visiting another Mayan ruin first, if possible, to get some of the basics out of the way before you arrive. We “splurged” on the guide ($55 USD in English with a tip) and were able to ask much better questions due to some context we received at Uxmal and other sites ahead of time.

That’s awesome! Yes you definitely get more out of the experience with a guide, no question!

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Where did you find your guide?

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Years ago the Cenotes were not gross & you could swim in them. We were encouraged by our guide to jump in. I sat on the edge, dangled my feet in the water & watched others swim & play. I had bright red almost fluorescent toe nail polish on & the water was so clear you could see many feet down into the water. As I played in the water with my feet I noticed small fish swimming. Enjoying the view & glancing down in the water occasionally, I noticed there were bigger fish swimming around. The next time I looked down in the crystal clear water the fish were HUGE! I jumped up, my husband had to catch me & those fish were enormous! It made us wonder just how many feet down in the water a person could see that the fish appeared so small when I first noticed them. A small child noticed the fish & screamed & all the tourist scrambled out of the Cenote. We were also allowed to climb on all the structures back then. It is a great historical place.

Great story! Sounds like the site has changed quite a bit over the years.

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It has. I went a couple of times around 20 year ago. You could climb el castillo, swim in the cenotes and they accepted us currebcy. I took a guided tour from cancun the first time. No where near enough time. The 2nd time, rented a car and wandered for hours. Would never go during summer months. Jan. Feb is the best and its still hot. Visiting mayan ruins urged me to get my masters degree in maya anthropology and archeology.

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You say not to wear flip-flops, but you’re wearing them in your picture. Did you regret wearing sandals or was it not that big of a deal? I have some sturdy sandals I’m debating wearing…

Hi Cece, I definitely regretted wearing them because they didn’t have great support. It sounds like the sturdy sandals you mentioned would be a great option!

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Can you climb the tall pyramid?

You used to be able to, but not anymore. In Tikal, Guatemala you can!

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We went many years ago and climbed it. Going up was relatively easy. Hard work but doable. Coming down was a whole ‘nother thing! That pyramid is steep! We ended up desxending on our rears, as did most others, trying to descend standing caused vertigo. So while it might seem that something has been lost with the restriction against climbing, you really are better off. Quite a few people froze when confronted with the steep descent!

I went to Tikal, Guatemala where they have very similar Mayan ruins that you can still climb, and I agree it’s definitely a workout!!

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Just wanted to say THANK YOU for your article. It was so helpful. I was not sure how to go about with the trip to Chichen Itza but now with your recommendations. Wow, great advise!

THANK YOU AGAIN! :0)

That’s so great to hear, thanks for the feedback! Enjoy your trip!

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HI, Great article. One kind request. I was looking for that Mexican Chicken place, but can`t seem to find it using Google Maps POV view. Understand it`s on the main road, but walking that Google man icon :), I haven’t managed to find it. Do you remember aprox where it was, close to what, etc? Tks in advance

Hi Christian, here it is! https://goo.gl/maps/YuoYdx8mTJr 🙂

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Hi! I know there are restrictions on video and trips, but is there an issue with bringing in cameras? I’d like to bring in a dslr and get some great shots (early am for sure) I’d love to know their camera and backpack policy. Thanks for the article!

Hi Tamea, you can definitely bring your big DSLR in, and I don’t recall any restrictions on backpacks.

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How does one enter the site at dawn without what seems to be the requisite guide? Is there something called a “special entry?” Thanks!

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Why are you surprised they only take pesos? Try to get into any US attraction with any other currency than dollars? Typical American entitlement

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Self-righteous much? Take a chill pill, dude.

Who said anything about being surprised? Oh…and I’m Canadian.

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I know this article is only a year old but my family just went and all the prices were doubled 😞 The Jaguar, “Dying cat” sounds 😂 really could go.

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So great you are for giving such wonderful information about visiting Chichen Itza in Cancun. I think these are very necessary tips for new travelers who are totally ignorant about Chichen Itza place in Cancun & want to visit more places in Cancun. But I know very well, this Chichen Itza place has a plenty look with full of beautiful scenery & most important is the climate is so good to visit.

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Are selfie-sticks allowed into ChichenItza? Are visitors allowed to bring in snacks? I’m taking my 80 year old mom with me to visit, do you think they’ll allow a foldable lawn chair to be brought in for if she wants to rest?

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I visited in the fall of 1982. Boy was I lucky, no crowds, you could go where you wanted and we got to climb the Castillo. Lol, couldn’t do the climb now! We walked to parts that were still covered in jungle. And seeing the cenote in person was just like being in the National Geographic article I read as a kid. Definitely a Bucket List journey.

Wow that sounds like an amazing experience! Definitely a bit different now!

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I just wanted to ask was there a state tax you had to pay also from the entrance fee?

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So this is part of my all inclusive vacation in mid August and according to the website I am booking with, it seems it’s a 12 hour trip. Starts at 8am. But now that I am reading this and after seeing on google images how massive the crowds can get, I’m worried it’s going to be way too crowded by the time we get there in the morning. I guess our time of arrival depends on how long the ride from hotel to the site is. I hope my pictures can be as clear of people as yours are lol. Great tips!!!

Yeah it’s definitely a long day if you’re coming from the Playa del Carmen area, but worth it! Enjoy!

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Thanks for the tips…I really don’t want to do a 12 hour tour. This is what my husband and I want to do: Arrive at 3pm and explore for 2 hrs. Once it is closed, we want to go have dinner and then return for the light/laser show.

You think we could hire a private driver/tourguide for this? Anyone here has experience the laser show? Any tips/feedback?

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Love this plan- did it work? Would love to hear how it went

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The entrance price has now doubled.

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What is the entry fee for adult/child? Thanks in advance.

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Er, this is a strange comment: “the most authentically Mexican spots in the entire Yucatan”. What on Earth is authentically Mexican to you? I’ve just visited numerous villages and towns in the Yucatan, and they all seem pretty ‘authentic’ to me. Try not to be the great Western tourist and show some sensitivity to the people who’s home this is. Other than that, thanks for the tips.

Hi Jordan, the sentence is “ONE of the most…” meaning the village is one of many in the Yucatan worth exploring away from the Americanized resorts. Not sure how that’s being insensitive- it’s actually a compliment as the village a great place to meet locals and try real Mexican food, as opposed to eating at a resort or at a generic cafe inside Chichen Itza. Thanks for reading!

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You come off as such an entitled tourist! Gringos- “theyre the worst”

Hi Gabi, as there were no specifics mentioned in your comment I’m not totally clear on how sharing factual details about a Mayan site makes me come off as entitled; however, welcome your feedback should like to provide more details. Thanks for reading!

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Hey Tamara, You da best! Thanks for sharing the information. Also, if one were vegetarian which is the best place to eat a good vegetarian food ( like no eggs , no meat, no fish no animals at all ) in Chichen Itza. If i am to get it right we can use the same entrance ticket to re-enter that very day ? Conclusively, a 5-6 hours of trip, well planned looks good enough for exploring. (Definitely not swimming in the Cenotes ) Also, what places would the guide take ? And what are the Dont’s with the guide? I

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Visited late last year. Loved being able to go at our own pace and mix some shopping and lunch in. The weather was fantastic when we did it, but you definitely need to dress according and wear comfortable shoes that are appropriate for the conditions.

Strongly recommend visiting on your own and give the crowds a skip. We used one of the self-guided audio tours from Viator. Will leave the link below.

https://www.viator.com/tours/Riviera-Maya-and-the-Yucatan/Chichen-Itza-Cancun-Self-Guided-Audio-Tour-Guide-for-iPhone-and-Android/d770-148912P1

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Will I be able to take my camera with me or are there restrictions on photography? I’m going tomorrow..

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Hi Tamara, thanks for the lovely tips. Quick question, would you recommend renting a car and driving to Chichen-Itza, paying the entrance fee directly and hiring a guide at the gate as opposed to taking a pick up tour? I think the family (hubby and 2 kids below 11) and I would just like to go to the ruins and not really the cenote. And if we have the car then a stop at Valladolid could be worked in too. Will it still take 10 to 12 hours? We are staying at Grand Palladium and upon checking the maps the non-toll road through Tullum is closer. Thank you and hello from Canada!

Definitely! I did it on my own as well (after the tour we paid for didn’t show up, grrr) and enjoyed the freedom of seeing it at our own pace. The drive is easy, really well paved roads along the toll route. I also have some tips on driving in Mexico here: https://www.globeguide.ca/tips-renting-car-driving-mexico/ Have fun!

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those jaguar whistles- as you described as dying cat sounds- are actually a big part of Mexican culture. please try and educate yourself before bringing your western ideologies in a place thats not yours.

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Thank you for these wonderful tips! We are planning a trip in August 2023. Your article and the comments were very helpful. (And ignore the haters – you rock! )

Haha thanks so much Deb, glad you found it helpful! I went in August too 🙂

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Chichen Itza

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CHICHEN ITZA

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As one of the most important city-states in pre-Hispanic America, Chichen Itza is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico today.

Chichen Itza, one of the New 7 Wonders of The World according to UNESCO, since July 7th, 2007

Meaning: “Chichen Itza”, At the brim of the well where the Wise Men of the Water Live. This is what Chichen Itza means in Maya.

Buildings: The Chichen Itza Pyramid or El Castillo is the most astonishing Mayan Ruin or building inside the Archaeological Site.

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Archaeological Site

Chichen Itza is a well-known Archaeological Site and more after being selected one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in July the 7th, 2007.

Chichen Itza welcomes over 2,500,000 visitors each year and you can reach the archaeological site by car, bus or with different tours.

Chichen Itza opens every day from Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm, the last entrance is at 4 pm, and you can get the tickets on site. You can also checkout: Chichen Itza Tickets .

Aerial shot of Chichen Itza Archaeological Site. Kukulcan Pyramid and mayan jungle

Mayan Ruins

Chichen Itza is beautiful and magnificent just as you must have already heard and it has plenty of Mayan Ruins to visit and get to know about its history.

Chichen Itza is divided in Old Chichen and Chichen Itza where you can find 6 Mayan Ruins in the Old Chichen section and about 20 Mayan Ruins in the New Chichen or Chichen Itza, making it a total of 26 Mayan Ruins to see on the Mayan Site.

The main Mayan Ruin is the Chichen Itza Pyramid or El Castillo, but there are other equaly important as El Caracol or Observatory, The Temple of The Warriors and the Mayan Ball Game.

Old pictures of Chichen Itza ruins being restored

Chichen Itza Location: The ancient city of Chichen Itza is located in the state of Yucatan, eastern Mexico. Right in the middle of Merida Yucatan and the famous city of Cancún Quintana Roo, Chichen Itza is settled. The exact coordinates (in case you wonder) are 20.6843° N, 88.5678° W. Click here to see the map to Chichen Itza.

Opening hours: Sunday to Saturday, from 8 am to 5 pm. Closing time starts by 4-4:30 pm.

Booking: 1 855 577 9836

Archaeological Site Chichén Itzá: 985 8 51 01 37

Centro INAH Yucatán: 999 9 13 40 34, ext. 398003 y 398004 y 999 9 44 40 68

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CHICHEN ITZA TOUR

One of the best ways to get to Chichen Itza is by hiring a Tour. Most people who visit Chichen Itza visits it from Cancun or the Riviera Maya.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Chichen Itza is open from Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Pyramid of Kukulkan is the tallest building in Chichen Itza, it reaches 30 meters in height or about the length of a football field.

Entrance tickets currently cost $614 MXN for foreigners, while a popular guided tour starts at around $6.99 per person.

Chichen Itza is a well-known Archaeological Site and One of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

From 550 AD to 800 AD, Chichen Itza existed mainly as a ceremonial center for the Maya civilization. But it was in 1200 AD when it was built as we know it today.

Chichen Itza tickets

Chichen Itza Archaeological Site is handled by INAH (Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia) which is the organism that handles all the Archaeological sites in Mexico.

Chichen Itza Entrance Fee is $614 MXN which translates to $28.5 USD approx. and this fee must be paid onsite. Learn more...

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CHICHEN ITZA TOURS

There are several types for the tour. Select the one that most suit your conditions and expectations.

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Chichen Itza Classic Tour

This is the classic Chichen Itza Tour and it’s perfect for a journey to visit the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza.

Chichen Itza Tour Plus

Enjoy the perks of the regular Chichen Itza Tour, Plus some extra amenities like unlimited drinks onboard the bus.

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Chichen Itza Deluxe Tour

This is a great tour for you. The Chichen Itza Deluxe Tour has all the benefits of the Plus tour, but in addition you get a Box lunch, Premium Drinks onboard the bus and an Umbrella at Chichen Itza.

Kukulkan head sculpture in front of Chichen Itza pyramid

Visit Chichen Itza at your own pace. With the Private Chichen Itza Tour you can visit the Mayan Ruins whenever you want and how you want to… Go to Chichen Itza earlier than everyone, or later.

Chichen Itza pyramid free of tourists

Enjoy the perks of traveling in Luxury. If you want to get in style to Chichen Itza, you must book this tour. Get to Chichen Itza from Cancun or the Riviera Maya in a Suburban vehicle with refreshing amenities on the ride.

Colonial Building Merida, Yucatan

Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to beautiful Chichen Itza, but also lots of other Mayan Ruins and beautiful destinations.

Streets of Valladolid. Yucatan, Mexico

Valladolid Yucatan

Beautiful Colonial Boutique Town.

Ik Kil cenote from the inside

Near Chichen Itza and Valladolid you’ll find lots of cenotes.

Ek Balam Archaeological Site

Close to Chichen Itza you’ll find these unknown ruins.

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Rio Lagartos

Visit the magical pink lagoons.

Cancun Airport Transportation

Cancun Airport Transportation is the main provider for private Cancun Airport Transfers from the Cancun Airport.

Cancun Airport

Cancun International Airport is the main airport in Mexico for international travelers.

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15 Facts About Chichen Itza, One Of The 7 Wonders Of The World

  • Chichen Itza is a top cruise attraction, with many tourists visiting from nearby ports on organized tours.
  • Local vendors sell goods near Chichen Itza, although tourists should be prepared for potential persistence.
  • Chichen Itza was discovered twice and was used as an observatory by the Mayans. It is being restored and may have been used for sacrifices.

Chichen Itza is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and is a historic site situated in Yucatán, Mexico. While most people realize that Chichen Itza was built by the Mayans thousands of years ago, there are many things tourists don't realize about this marvelous attraction. There are many interesting facts about Chichen Itza that everyone should know before visiting.

Chichen Itza refers to an archeological site, not the pyramid within it, which is the site's most popular tourist attraction. The pyramid itself was built to serve as a temple and a castle and is known as El Castillo - there are a lot more facts about Chichen Itza that you may want to know about both the site and the pyramid before you visit.

UPDATE: 2023/10/26 16:37 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Is Much More To Understand When Coming To See Chichen Itza

This article has been updated with new information regarding Chichen Itza, as well as two lesser-known facts about this world-famous monument. Whether someone is coming from their cruise, shopping with locals, or wanting to learn more about this iconic structure, Mexico is filled to the brim with history and Mayan culture!

Chichen Itza Is One Of The Most Visited Cruise Attractions

  • Cruise passengers account for much of the tourism at Chichen Itza.

Something to know about Chichen Itza in Mexico is that it brings most of its tourists from cruise ships porting in nearby areas. Cozumel is a landing point for many cruisers, with them hopping on a bus to witness the ancient Mayan structure in real-time. For this reason, people will almost always have the option of booking a tour of the site via their cruise company, as it's continuously one of the most in-demand choices among people coming to the country. From water to Chichen Itza!

Guachimontones is another prehistoric site in Mexico worth checking out for anyone with time to spare on the mainland.

Related: The Longest Bike Trail In The World Spans All The Way From Canada To Mexico

There Are Locals Selling Goods Near The Famous Monument

  • Local vendors line the streets entering Chichen Itza.

Although this sometimes doesn't sit well with tourists, there are hoards of vendors selling goods just hundreds of feet from Chichen Itza. Most people are fairly calm about selling to tourists, although it has been reported vendors bombarding buses filled with guests in the area, as well as flagging them down at the monument. It's best to say no thanks and move on from the area if this persists. Or, if you want a handcrafted gift, then supporting vendors is a great idea: whatever makes everyone feel most comfortable.

It Was Discovered Twice

  • Chichen Itza underwent two major discoveries, one in 514 AD and another in 1841.

One thing most people do not know about Chichen Itza is that it was discovered twice. In 514 AD, a priest by the name of Lakin Chan discovered the site that is known as Chichen Itza. It is believed that Chan was also referred to as Itzamna. Chichen Itza translates as “at the mouth of the well of the Itza.” Over the years following its abandonment, Chichen Itza was lost, and Mexico fell into turmoil and was ravaged by a series of wars. In 1841, American Explorer John Lloyd Stephens stumbled upon this site once again and turned it over to Mexico.

Related: Mayapan: Visit One Of The Yucatan's Most Stunning But Rarely Visited Mayan Sites

It Was Used As An Observatory

  • At one point, Chichen Itza was used as an observatory.

The Chichen Itza is a marvelous site due to its rich architecture and historical value, but it also houses evidence that the Mayans were definitely ahead of their time. For starters, the Chichen Itza housed craftspeople, artisans, and scholars and was by no means a civilization of simple people. The Mayans were people of science and math and especially excelled in the field of astronomy. For this reason, tourists can visit the Mayan observatory known as El Caracol, which once was used by the Mayans to gaze into the heavens and study the motions of Venus.

It's Built With Diverse Materials

  • The pyramids of Chichen Itza have been made with local materials, such as mica.

The pyramids of Chichen Itza have been a popular attraction for ages, but now they are being questioned, or rather, the method in which they were built. Historians have analyzed the buildings and structures located within this site and have found a variety of diverse materials that do not originate locally in Yucatan, Mexico . One of these materials is mica, which was used by the Mayans during construction to insulate their buildings, but there is one problem. Mica is found 2,000 miles away from the pyramids in Brazil, and scientists are baffled as to how it was transported without vehicles.

It Was Built Near Sinkholes

  • This structure was built near sinkholes, often believed to be used for human sacrifice.

Another thing most people do not know about Chichen Itza is that it was built near sinkholes. While your first reaction to reading that might be confusion or worry, there was a very good reason for the Mayans establishing their community near two sinkholes. The area is generally spotted with numerous sinkholes in the limestone earth and is stable. They actually provided the only source of freshwater to the people of the area as there are no rivers or lakes nearby. Therefore, Chichen Itza was built near two massive sinkholes to ensure water availability year-round. These sinkholes are called cenotes and have clean water in them ( cenotes are also one of the top tourist attractions of the Yucatán Peninsula ).

It Is Being Restored

  • Many restoration projects have kept Chichen Itza looking beautiful after all these years.

One thing most people find surprising about the buildings in Chichen Itza, particularly El Castillo, is the incredible condition it is in after all these centuries. This is due to the restoration projects headed by the Mexican government and some universities to ensure these structures stand the test of time.

Restoration efforts began in 1923 when Sylvanus Morley, an archaeologist, headed an expedition to the pyramid and realized it had suffered a great deal of decay. After gaining entrance to the pyramid, restoration efforts were started and continue to this day; due to this, El Castillo is stronger than ever.

It May Have Been Used For Sacrifices

  • Many believe that sinkholes surrounding Chichen Itza were used for sacrifices during times of heartache.

Next up on this list is a morbid fact about Chichen Itza, which is not entirely butterflies and rainbows. The Mayans were peaceful and smart people but also believed in curses and sacrifice to the gods they worshiped. The sinkholes mentioned above were frequently used for sacrifices during times of adversity, such as a drought or famine. The Mayans would choose a person to be sacrificed to the gods in hopes that this would bring them luck. In addition to sacrifices, the Mayans were also big fans of death penalties, which were gruesome and publicized to maintain order and spread fear.

It Isn't Entirely Mayan

  • The Chichen Itza was built in two stages: the pre-Classic and the latter period.

Next up is a fact that startles most people when they hear it, and it truly is shocking. Historians suggest that this famous Mayan community may not have been entirely Mayan, and that is true. The Chechen Itza was built in two stages, the pre-Classic and the latter period. The pre-Classic period was greatly influenced by the Mayans, but following an invasion of Toltecs in the 10th century, this all changed. As a matter of fact, the most iconic buildings of Chichen Itza, such as the Temple Pyramid El Castillo, may have been built by the Toltecs and not the Mayans.

There Are Smaller Pyramids Within

  • There is a smaller pyramid cluster hiding below the El Castillo.

Another fact to know about Chichen Itza is that while the huge pyramid of El Castillo looms at a whopping 98 feet , it is, in fact, hiding something beneath it. Within the pyramid are two smaller pyramids that stand at 65.5 feet and 33 feet. The smallest of the three pyramids is believed to have been built by the Mayans, as it features a unique Colombian-style architecture style. In contrast, the other pyramids have Mexican influences in them. Scientists are studying the smaller pyramid to learn more about the ways of the Mayans, as the ways of the Toltecs are shown on El Castillo with its carvings and sculptures.

Related: This Forgotten City Has The Tallest Mayan Pyramid (& Its Not Chichen Itza)

There Was A Death At The Itza

  • Tourists in modern times are not permitted to climb or even touch Chichen Itza.

Tourists at the Chichen Itza are frequently disappointed to know that they cannot climb to the top of the pyramid, and here is why. Until 2006 , tourists were allowed to climb to the top of El Castillo to gaze upon the sculptures at the top. That was until an American tourist stumbled on her way down and fell to her death. These accidents are increasingly common, and for this reason, the steps of El Castillo are restricted. In addition to providing an added layer of safety to tourists, this ensures the structure will not be damaged by the feet of hundreds of thousands of tourists climbing the steps.

That said, this Mayan pyramid in Mexico DOES allow climbing , so that's something to think about.

Chichen Itza's Glory Declined Mysteriously

  • The Mayans are said to have vanished sometime around the 14th century.

This once great empire met its sudden doom when the Mayans who once inhabited this land mysteriously left in the 14th century and never returned to it once again. The Chichen Itza was a symbol of perseverance and power to the Mayans, who had moved around, ravaged by warfare until settling in the Itza. Their civilization was one of the most advanced of its time. Still, it met its sudden end due to a series of issues, such as drought and famine. After the fall of Chichen Itza, the Mayans persevered in the North till the 16th century.

Chichen Itza Has The Largest Mayan Ballcourt

  • Chichen Itza is home to the largest Ballcourt known in Mesoamerica.

Much is not known about the Mayan Ballgame, but it would seem that for the Mayans, the game was more ritual in nature. The game was associated with human sacrifice, and the exact rules remain unknown (except it would seem players could only use their hips and thighs. Chichen Itza is home to the largest Ballcourt known in Mesoamerica .

Chichen Itza Has A Sacrificial Cenote

  • There is a sacred cenote at Chichen Itza, where sacrifices occur.

At Chichen Itza, visitors can find the Sacred Cenote . It is an ancient sinkhole that the Mayans believed was sacred. Numerous artifacts have been discovered at the bottom of this cenote, including things associated with sacrifice, like gold, jade, incense, and human bones. The human skeletons include warriors, children, and maidens. Also, at Chichen Itza, visitors can see the Mayan baths where sacrificial victims were ritually cleaned before their sacrifice.

Chichen Itza Is One Of The Most Touristic Mayan Sites

  • Chichen Itza remains one of the most popular Mayan sites in the world.

Chichen Itza is not only one of the most popular archeological sites in Mexico, but it is also likely the most popular Mayan archeological site in all of the ancient Mayan world. It is far from the only ancient Mayan city to have impressive ruins. Still, it is one of the most accessible and best known, and it benefits from being in Mexico (Tikal is remote in the jungle in Guatemala). Chichen Itza attracts around 2 million tourists every year.

15 Facts About Chichen Itza, One Of The 7 Wonders Of The World

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  1. Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Chichén Itzá

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  2. Guide to Visiting Chichén Itzá

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  3. The 6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Chichén Itzá

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  4. Visit Chichen Itzá at sunset

    why visit chichen itza

  5. Chichen Itza: One of the Seven Wonders of the World

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  6. Visit Chichén Itzá on a trip to Mexico

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  1. Chichen itza

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  1. The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico

    Best Things to Do in Chichen Itza. 1. Temple of Kukulcan. The Temple of Kukulcan is known in Spanish as 'El Castillo' (the castle) because this enormous temple is the most impressive sight to see at Chichen Itza. Dedicated to the Mayan serpent-deity Kukulcan, the temple was the centerpiece of the ancient Mayan city.

  2. Chichen Itza -- World Heritage Site -- National Geographic

    Chichén Itzá's ball court is the largest known in the Americas, measuring 554 feet (168 meters) long and 231 feet (70 meters) wide. During ritual games here, players tried to hit a 12-pound (5.4 ...

  3. Chichen Itza

    Chichen Itza is located about 120 miles from the modern-day resort town of Cancun, on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. ... some 2 million tourists visit Chichen Itza annually to explore its ...

  4. Your Complete Guide to Visiting Chichén Itzá in 2024

    Your Complete Guide to Visiting Chichén Itzá in 2024. By Melissa Douglas July 24, 2023. Visiting Chichen Itza is a highlight of any trip to the Yucatan and for a lot of people, it is their entire raison d'etre for venturing into this part of the world in the first place. The ancient Mayan city is one of the new seven wonders of the world ...

  5. Visiting Chichen Itza: Everything You Need to Know

    The city of Chichen Itza (which is so much more than a pyramid!), in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, was built somewhere between 400-600 AD and was one of the largest cities of the mighty Mayan civilization. The city was a booming center for trade and was the home to as many as 50,000 Mayans at one time.

  6. Chichen Itza: The Definitive 2024 Guide (+ Tips)

    Chichen Itza Guide: Everything You Need to Know (2024). Chichen Itza is the most famous Mayan site in the world.It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the 7 New Wonders of the World.. It is also the second most visited archaeological site in Mexico, after Teotihuacan near Mexico City.. That's why it's very important to plan your day to make the most of your visit!

  7. Chichen Itza

    Chichen Itza, a ruined ancient Maya city occupying an area of 4 square miles (10 square km) in south-central Yucatan state, Mexico. It was founded about the 6th century CE, presumably by Mayan peoples who had occupied the region since the Pre-Classic Period. In the 10th century it was invaded by foreigners.

  8. Chichén Itzá: the heart of the Maya Empire in Mexico

    Chichén Itzá is a city where the Maya lived from around 550 to 1200 CE, although it should be noted that estimates vary greatly. While the Temple of Kukulcan is its most famous structure, it is certainly not the only pyramid or interesting building in the compound. Its sheer size is one of the things that sets it apart from other ...

  9. Guide to Visiting Chichén Itzá

    El Castillo: This is one of the most striking buildings in Chichen Itza. It is dedicated to Kukulkan, the Plumed Serpent. Every year on the fall and spring equinox the sun strikes the side of the building making a play of light and shadow which appears as a snake along the steps of the building. Excavations have discovered that the stepped pyramid was built over an older, smaller temple, and ...

  10. Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza

    Chichen-Itza is protected by the 1972 Federal Law on Monuments and Archaeological, Artistic and Historic Zones and was declared an archaeological monument by a presidential decree in 1986. The site remains open to the public 365 days of the year, and received a minimum of 3.500 tourists per day, a number which can reach 8.000 daily visitors in ...

  11. Chichén Itzá

    Chichén Itzá's ball court is the largest known in the Americas, measuring 554 feet (168 meters) long and 231 feet (70 meters) wide. During ritual games here, players tried to hit a 12-pound (5.4-kilogram) rubber ball through stone scoring hoops set high on the court walls. Competition must have been fierce indeed—losers were put to death.

  12. A Complete Guide to Chichen Itza in Mexico

    Therefore, to enjoy the visit of Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins to the fullest, we've created this guide aiming to cover all the basics you should know before visiting the famous archeological site. HISTORY OF CHICHEN ITZA. Chichen Itza was one of the largest Mayan pre-Columbian cities inhabited between 400 AD to 1200 AD.

  13. A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá

    The smaller and less crowded ruins of Uxmal, south of Merida and the barely restored Maya site of Coba are worth a visit during a trip to Mexico. The town of Merida is also worth a visit and still retains its colonial charm. Built on the site of an ancient Mayan city, it has a rich cultural life, reflected in its diversity and many free ...

  14. Visiting Chichen Itza? What You Need to Know

    Many visitors choose to visit Chichen Itza as a daytrip from Cancun, the coastal city popular with tourists. With about 120 miles between them, the archaeological site is roughly two hours away from the city by car. One option, particularly suited for visitors who like their independence, is to rent a car in Cancun and drive to Chichen Itza ...

  15. 22 Things to KNOW Before Visiting Chichén Itzá

    This is the most popular cenote near Chichen Itza and should be on your must-see list! It's located only five minutes from Chichen Itza and costs 100 pesos ($5 USD) to visit. This is a really deep cenote with the surface of the water starting at 80 feet below the ground, and then the water itself is 160 feet deep.

  16. Chichen Itza

    Chichén Itzá (often spelled Chichen Itza in English and traditional Yucatec Maya) was a large pre-Columbian city built by the Maya people of the Terminal Classic period. The archeological site is located in Tinúm Municipality, Yucatán State, Mexico.. Chichén Itzá was a major focal point in the Northern Maya Lowlands from the Late Classic (c. AD 600-900) through the Terminal Classic (c ...

  17. Visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico

    When you visit Chichen Itza, you should explore the following famous constructions on the site to really take advantage of your trip. El Castillo Pyramid (Temple of the Kukulkan) The El Castillo is the most important structure in Chichen Itza archaeological site, and what people refer to when they talk about the Chichen Itza pyramid. It's in ...

  18. The 6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Chichén Itzá

    Temple of Kukulkan, Wonder of the World. Recognized in 2017 as one of the new seven wonders of the modern world, this building is the main one of Chichén Itzá, it shows the knowledge that the Mayans had about astronomy, mathematics, acoustics and geometry. It has 18 bodies that represent the same number of months of 20 days each, four ...

  19. Visiting Chichen Itza: The Complete Guide to the Mayan Ruins

    The Best Time to Visit Chichen Itza. Generally, the best time to go to Chichen Itza and Yucatan, in general, is the dry winter period. The months of November- March are cooler and dry making it an ideal time of year to visit the Chichen Itza ruins. The summer months of June-October are hot, humid and rainy making it a little more difficult to ...

  20. How To Visit Chichen Itza: Guide For First-timers

    1. Tickets. To enter you will need a ticket. Yes, you have to pay to see Chichen Itza! Tickets cost MXN$80 for children and MXN$533 for adults. You can buy tickets online or at the entrance to the ruins. There is also a light and sound show in the evening for a higher priced admission. 2.

  21. Why Does Everyone Want to go to Chichen Itza?

    Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins. Chichen Itza is certainly the number one tourist attraction (besides going to the beach here). Bus loads of people flow from Cancun and Playa Del Carmen daily to this Mayan site. More than 1.2 million tourist visit Chichen Itza every year. Why is this so? Well a lot has to do with the semi restored extensive ruins at ...

  22. 9 tips you need to know before visiting Chichén Itzá

    3) Pack your pesos when visiting Chichen Itza. The Chichén Itzá entrance fee is 232 pesos for adults (about $13 USD), and in true Mexican fashion there's a good chance the credit card machine won't be working…oh, and they only accept pesos. Ensure you have some of the currency handy, or seek out one of the vendors stationed near the ...

  23. Chichen Itza

    The exact coordinates (in case you wonder) are 20.6843° N, 88.5678° W. Click here to see the map to Chichen Itza. Opening hours: Sunday to Saturday, from 8 am to 5 pm. Closing time starts by 4-4:30 pm. Contact. Booking: 1 855 577 9836. Archaeological Site Chichén Itzá: 985 8 51 01 37.

  24. 15 Facts About Chichen Itza, One Of The 7 Wonders Of The World

    Chichen Itza is a top cruise attraction, with many tourists visiting from nearby ports on organized tours. Local vendors sell goods near Chichen Itza, although tourists should be prepared for ...

  25. Visit to Chichen Itza and 2 cenotes with lunch from Cancun

    Visit Chichen Itza & the enigmatics Cenotes Ik Kil & Suytun. 4. 13 to 15 hours. Free Cancellation. From. $155.00. Full Day Tour to Chichen Itza and Mayan Cenotes from Cancun. 0. 12 hours. Free Cancellation. From. $131.00. Chichen Itza. 1. 8 hours. Free Cancellation. From. $290.00. Why you are seeing these recommendations.