Mexico

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 

visit to 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

visit to 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  

visit to 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

visit to 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 

visit to 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 

visit to 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 

visit to 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 

visit to 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 

visit to 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 

visit to 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

visit to 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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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

[email protected]

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.

visit to chichen itza

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...

 Chichen Itza Tickets for entrance to the Archaeological Site

CHICHEN ITZA TOURS

There are several types for the tour. Select the one that most suit your conditions and expectations.

Two friends girls walking in direction to Chichen Itza pyramid while sun shines behind the building

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.

Woman standing in front of Chichen Itza pyramid stairs looking up to the top

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.

Man floating in pink lagoon near Río Lagartos

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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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

  • Nat Geo Expeditions

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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Related Topics

  • WORLD HERITAGE SITES
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Every Steph

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

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: March 14, 2024

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.

visit to 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).

visit to 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

visit to 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  Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals when booking a car. ➥  COMPARE PRICES HERE

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  Discover Cars 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?

visit to 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

visit to 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

visit to 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).

visit to 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)

visit to 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.

visit to 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.

visit to 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

visit to 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

visit to 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.

visit to 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)

visit to 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

visit to 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

visit to 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

visit to 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.

visit to 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.

visit to 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 .

visit to 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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Chichén Itzá: The Complete Guide

visit to 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.

The 13 Most Amazing Maya Ruins to See in Mexico

Your Trip to Cancun: The Complete Guide

Ancient Maya Sites of the Yucatan Peninsula

One Week in Mérida and Cancún

The Top 10 Things to Do in Cancun With Kids

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20 Top Things to Do in Mexico

Mexico's Riviera Maya: Planning Your Trip

5 Ways To Get From Cancún to Chichén Itzá

How to Travel From Cancun to Cozumel by Bus, Car, Ferry, and Plane

5 Destinations for Family Vacations in Mexico

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Cenotes: What They Are and Where to Find Them

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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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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

Check out these articles:

Islands Near Playa Del Carmen That You Should Visit On Your Mexico Vacation

Islands Near Playa Del Carmen That You Should Visit On Your Mexico Vacation

Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza – How To Pick The Best Mayan Site To Visit

Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza – How To Pick The Best Mayan Site To Visit

Day Trips From Merida – Top Family Friendly Places To Go In Under 3 Hours

Day Trips From Merida – Top Family Friendly Places To Go In Under 3 Hours

visit to 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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visit to chichen itza

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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9 tips you need to know before visiting Chichén Itzá

visit to 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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About The Author

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Tamara Elliott

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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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

visit to 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)

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visit to chichen itza

Visiting Chichen Itza: Everything You Need to Know

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  • Last Checked and/or Updated 26 January 2024
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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 is Chichén Itzá?

The archaeological site of Chichén Itzá, officially the Zona Arqueológica de Chichén Itzá, is on the Yucatán peninsular, in the Mexican state of Yucatán. Pisté, the nearest town, is just 2.5 km away. The site is just off the main highway that runs between the city of Mérida (115 km away) and the seaside resort of Cancun (200 km away).

Overgrown Chichen Itza as seen in a photograph from around 1895.

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

visit to chichen itza

visit to chichen itza

Table of Contents

Xichen Tour 728x90 Yucatan Pyramids Tour

Chichen Itza is the most visited Archeological Site in the Mayan Culture and represents the most complete and spectacular example of the combination of Mayan and Toltec cultures that flourished and reached a remarkable extension under the influence of “colonizers” from Tula.

The archaeological sources and the historical tradition, offer interesting indications for the study of the architectural and stylistic aspects of this Yucatán City, characterized by the evident mixture of two different cultures.

In Chichen Itza, numerous decorative elements, especially in the form of sculptures and stone bas-reliefs, testify to the strong presence of the cult of Quetzalcoatl, known as Kukulkan to the Mayas. The worship of the Sacred Cenote remained alive until the time of the conquest, a well to whose murky and deep waters victims were thrown to please the god of Rain Chac.

Facts about Chichen Itza are one of the most interesting and basic things to learn when visiting this Mayan Archeological Site. Learn 10 Facts about Chichen Itza from the  Pyramid in Chichen Itza , the  Sacred Cenote , and speaking about the Pyramid and the Cenote, did you know there’s a hidden Cenote right under the Great Pyramid of Chichen Itza? Learn more about this fact and many more in this list I’ve written for you.

Chichen Itza open hours?

Chichén Itzá is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. (Closing time may vary between 4 pm and 5 pm depending on the season)

When visiting most of the Mayan archeological sites you need to pay 2 fees, one for the Yucatán Tax Administration Agency, and a second one for the National Institute of Arts and History.

How much is Chichen Itza’s entrance fee in 2022?

General Admission State fee: $453 MXN Federal fee: $80 MXN Total: $533 MXN (Children between 3 and 12: $85 MXN)

Free admission

  • Free admission for Mexican Citizens on Sundays with a valid ID.
  • Free admission every day for Mexican Citizens with the following valid IDs: Older than 60 years, retired, pensioned, teachers, students, children under 13, and handicapped.

When is the best time to visit Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza is the second most visited archeological site in México with more than 2.5 million visitors a year, with the busiest months being November – to April. The months with fewer crowds are May – June, and September – October. The perfect month to visit this archeological site because of the good weather and fewer tourists in May. The best time during the day is between 8 and 11 am, and if you’re not an early bird, you can get there between 2 and 3 pm.

What’s the estimated time spent in Chichen Itza?

Relax: You can walk around the Pyramid of Kukulkan to see the buildings without going into the Sacbés or roads in just under one hour. Tourist: If you want to see everything stopping only to take pictures, it may take between 3 and 4 hours. Archeologist: If you already read about Chichen Itza´s history and its buildings, you might want to really explore the architecture and engravings around the monuments. This may easily take between 4 to 6 hours.

General recommendations when visiting Chichen Itza?

1. Keep yourself hydrated 2. Wear comfortable shoes 3. Plan your route 4. Be patient 5. Protect yourself from harmful UV rays 6. Avoid large crowds 7. No drones or tripods allowed 8. Get a bus tour 9. Hire a guide (or not) 10. Something about salespeople 11. Bring cash 12. Bring mosquito repellent

Some of the Chichen Itza recommendations you find here may be common sense like drinking lots of water and protecting yourself from UV rays, but I recommend you read all of them to learn a couple of things you may not have thought about.

1. Keep yourself hydrated

The first of our Chichen Itza recommendations is to take a few liters of water in your backpack because you’re going to sweat, plus the weather is very hot and humid.

2. Wear comfortable shoes

You may wear sandals, but it’s best to take your hiking or tennis shoes. The pathways are a bit uneven and unpaved, also you’ll have to keep an eye out for errant rocks and sticks.

3. Plan your route

If you’re just looking to take a couple of amazing pictures in front of the main pyramid, and other nearby constructions, there’s no need to plan the route; but if you want to see everything, it’s best to plan ahead so you know what you want to see, and where it is.

4. Be patient

Lots of people visit Chichen Itza, and most of them get there between 11 am and 1 pm, so if you’re expecting to take a picture by yourself in front of the Kukulkan Pyramid, that may be a bit difficult. So, you can wait, or just take the picture and then edit your photo later.

5. Protect yourself from harmful UV rays

This is one of the most important Chichen Itza recommendations because you may find some shades under the trees, but most of the time, you will be under direct sunlight, so make sure to use sunscreen, a hat, and it may also be a good idea to take an umbrella with you.

6. Avoid large crowds

Chichen Itza can get very crowded depending on the season, schedule, and day of the week. There’s not much we can do about the season because we usually plan our trip depending on other factors, but try to avoid Sundays because any citizen with a valid Mexican ID gets in for free. Another thing to look out for if you want to avoid large crowds in Chichen Itza is that most of the tour buses get there at around 11 am, so if it’s in your hands, try to get there at 8 am, or after 2 pm.

7. No drones or tripods allowed

This is one of the Chichen Itza recommendations that’s more of a warning, than a recommendation because you may freely take pictures and video with your handheld camera or smartphone, but you have to pay a small fee for shooting video with a pro camera. Also, keep in mind you can’t use drones. If you really need to use a tripod, there’s special permission to use one, but it might take some valuable time out of your visit to get it.

8. Get a bus tour

While driving yourself may give you the freedom to stay the time you need and stop to eat wherever you want, it might be tiring for the driver. So, it might be a good idea to get a bus tour to Chichen Itza because most of them include the access ticket, a tour guide, food, and drinks, so you don’t have to worry about anything else other than enjoying your trip.

9. Hire a guide (or not)

This is one of the Chichen Itza recommendations that is totally up to you and what you want to get out of your trip to this Mayan Archeological Site.

Other than taking amazing pictures, a must when you visit Chichen Itza is to know what you’re looking at and a little bit of history. So, you have 2 options, read before you go, or hire a tour guide.

10. Something about salespeople

There are souvenir stands everywhere, selling figurines, t-shirts, wood carvings, and the list goes on. It’s important to buy from them and not big chain stores because some of the articles you can find there are works of art that were built with their own hands, plus you help their economy, but in my opinion, I don’t think there should be so many of them, this amazing Archeological Site ends up looking like a market. Also, a few of them lie to get your attention, they may say something like 5 T-shirts for $5 dollars, and when you ask, they say 5 T-shirts for $25 dollars, making it seem like you may have heard wrong. Or they have a big figurine and offer it to you at $1 dollar, and when you approach them to buy it, they have a small one “hidden” in the other hand; then they tell you that’s the one that costs $1 dollar, and the big one costs $30.

11. Bring cash

While traveling in México, it’s always best to carry cash because you never know when you can pay with a credit or debit card. Even when they accept them, they may not work properly, try to carry cash with you.

12. Bring mosquito repellent

It depends on the season, but most of the year there are lots of mosquitos, one of the most important Chichen Itza recommendations is to take with you some mosquito repellent in the form of liquid, bracelet, sticker, or whatever works for you.

Housing Periods

The most important housing period of Chichen Itza has been divided into three; one corresponding from the years 550 to 800 which corresponds to a stage of pure Mayas; another from 800 to 1000 known as transitional, where the settlers from central Mexico arrived and brewed a new culture with the Maya, now called Mayan-Toltec; and the last one from 1050 to 1300 corresponding to the decline of the city.

Architectural and stylistic aspects of Chichen Itza

The archaeological sources and the historical tradition, offer interesting indications for the study of the architectural and stylistic aspects of this Yucatecan City, characterized by the evident mixture of two different cultures.

The Nunnery Chac masks in Chichen Itza

In Chichen Itza, numerous decorative elements, especially in the form of sculptures and stone bas-reliefs, testify to the strong presence of the cult of Quetzalcoatl, known as Kukulkán to the Mayas.

Kukulkan, the Mayan new god

It was probably the Toltecs who superimposed the anthropozoomorphic figure of this ancient and mysterious divinity, the legacy of the Teotihuacan civilization, its cultural hero Ce Acatl Topiltzin Quetzalcoatl, the mythical king of the legendary city of Tula, identified by so many archaeologists with the city of modest dimensions brought to light in the state of Hidalgo. Quetzalcoatl, after many years of reign over the city of Tula and its inhabitants, was dethroned by his evil brother Tezcatlipoca, an event that according to sources occurred in the year 987.

The Mayan god Kukulkan

Different traditions are intertwined and superimposed on the fate of this civilizing hero, after his expulsion from Tula; according to one of them, he emigrated eastward, with a group of followers, to the territory of Yucatan, which he probably reached by sea. This is consistent with Yucatecan documents from the colonial era, which narrate the arrival to Chichen Itza of a character of noble lineage, cultured and refined, which the Maya gave the name of Kukulkán, which in Yucatec means precisely “snake-quetzal”, or more simply “Feathered Serpent”.

No doubt he brought to Chichen Itza much knowledge, especially in the field of arts and medicine, as well as the culture of his hometown, whose assimilation by local people must have given great impetus and prosperity to the city.

Many historians have interpreted oral tradition and colonial sources as the “fictionalized” reflection of events actually occurring; the “invaders” of Chichen Itza were probably exiled from Toltec lineage, expelled from Tula. Since the end of the tenth century, then, Chichen Itza assumed the role of the guiding city of Yucatán; its architecture represents a hybrid of the elements inherited from the Classic Maya, elements of Puuc style, and new Toltec contributions.

Human sacrifices in Chichen Itza

Tzompantli and Kukulkán in Chichén Itzá

What inevitably surprises and impresses those who stop to visit the vestiges of this prestigious archaeological zone are aspects of material culture linked to human sacrifices; they were always practiced in Yucatan and other Mayan regions and the Toltecs further accentuated these rituals as seen in the altar of skulls where the heads of the decapitated victims, the Tzompantli, were nailed.

Best time to visit Chichen Itza

The Best time to visit Chichen Itza depends on your schedule and likes because you might like large crowds or be the only one there. For large crowds go on the Chichen Itza Equinox or a Mexican Holiday, if you can’t schedule these days, just visit between 11 am and 2 pm to get the largest crowds.

On the other hand, if you like to be practically the only one there, visit Chichen Itza on a rainy day and be there at 8 am. Check out the rest of this article to choose the best time to visit Chichen Itza.

General Weather in the State of Yucatan

Chichen Itza is located in the Yucatán Peninsula south of the Tropic of Cancer and is surrounded by warm tropic waters from the Gulf of México and the Pacific Ocean which means it has warm and humid tropical weather.

The Temperature in Chichen Itza

The temperatures in the Mayan Peninsula are very high and constant throughout the year between 28ºC in December-January and 35ºC in May-August.

Rain and hurricanes

The Mayan Peninsula has two rainy seasons between May and October, and between November and April, of course, this season may come before and after these months.

Hurricane in the Mayan Peninsula

Since there are no mountains in the Mayan Peninsula, hurricanes have no obstacles to slow them down, which makes the land vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes coming from the East. The tropical hurricane season starts in May and ends in December.

The best months to visit Chichen Itza

The best time to visit Chichen Itza according to the months is between March and May because there’s not a lot of rain and there’s also not that much tourism.

After these months, the second-best time to visit Chichen Itza is between December and February because of the weather, but the downside is that there are a lot of tourists, so try to get there early.

Best hours to visit Chichen Itza

The best time during the day is between 8 and 11 am, and if you’re not an early bird, you can get there between 2 and 3 pm.

Worst time and day to visit Chichen Itza

The worst hours to visit Chichen Itza are between 11 am and 3 pm when most of the tour buses arrive.

visit to chichen itza

The worst day to visit Chichen Itza is on Sundays when every person with a valid ID from México can get it for free.

Another bad option that mostly depends on you, is the Chichen Itza Equinox because it may get very crowded. If you want to see it, I recommend visiting the site one or two days before and after. You can still enjoy the effect, but with fewer crowds.

visit to chichen itza

Location of Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is located in the State of Yucatan in Mexico, 120 km southeast of its capital Merida, and 200 km southwest of the city of Cancún.

How to get to Chichen Itza

You can arrive in a comfortable and safe way, using any means of transportation like tour buses, car rentals, or public transportation.

Chichen Itza Tours

Xichen by Xcaret Chichen Itza Tours

You can get a complete experience of Chichen Itza with the hiring of a Tour Agency like Xichen by Xcaret that can offer you different packages with everything to turn your trip to Chichen Itza into a unique experience.

The Classic Chichen Itza Tour will provide full transportation either by bus or van from the hotel where you’re staying or from any other pick-up point. The tour includes the price of the tickets with a guide included, which will give you a tour through the site with breaks for free time.

The guides are certified and speak English, some of them even speak multiple languages.

Most tours will also visit cenotes and a delicious buffet-style meal in a restaurant of excellent regional quality.

Car Rental to go to Chichen Itza

With this option, you can take the wheel and make the journey with the stops you want and the way you want.

If you decide to rent a vehicle to make the trip to Chichen Itza, you can get an excellent price for the rental of your vehicle from an authorized website like rentalcars.com, getting a discount if you set it aside in advance.

Once you get your vehicle, the trip to Chichen Itza will not be complicated, you just have to take the 180 federal highway known also as the Mérida-Puerto Juarez highway. As for the conditions of the road, you should not worry because it is in perfect condition. Along the route, you can make stops in many tourist places, such as famous cenotes or tourist spots that offer beautiful crafts, perfect as souvenirs of your visit.

If you’re driving yourself, you can easily use apps like Google Maps or Waze to get there.

Public Transportation to Chichen Itza

visit to chichen itza

If you want to get to Chichen Itza using public transportation, you can take buses, which are an economical and convenient option to get to your destination regardless of the number of people in the group. Buses are taken from the bus terminals in any city like Cancún or Mérida and should be taken in the morning as early as possible. By choosing this option, you can enjoy your trip in nice and spacious seats with air conditioning.

Public transportation usually stops in a beautiful town called Pisté located 15 kilometers from the ruins of Chichen Itza where you can buy ornaments and crafts to remember your trip and stretch your legs before continuing.

How to get to Chichen Itza from Merida

From Merida, it’s 120 km and you get there in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How to get to Chichen Itza from Valladolid

From Valladolid, it’s 50 km and you get there in approximately 45 minutes.

How to get to Chichen Itza from Cancun

From Cancun, it’s 200 km and you get there in approximately 3 hours.

How to get to Chichen Itza from Tulum

From Tulum, it’s 150 km and you get there in approximately 2 hours.

5 recommendations if you’re driving to Chichén Itzá

The Chichen Itza recommendations may change if you’re driving there with new options like taking control of the time you get there and leave, staying there as long as you need, and some other ones. 

Check out these specific Chichen Itza recommendations in case you rented a car or a friend is showing you around the Mayan Peninsula.

1. Get there early (or late)

Try to get there between 8 and 10 am because most tour buses arrive between 11 am and 1 pm, plus it’s not that hot when you arrive that early. If you’re not an early bird, try to get there between 2 and 3 pm, when the tour buses start to leave.

2. Look out for expensive toll booths

There are also a couple of expensive tolls along the way, depending on where you’re staying, so bring some extra cash with you.

3. Time your trip

Depending on where are you staying (from Mérida: 1:30 hours, and from Cancún: 2:30), you should time your trip. For example, if you want to get there at 8 am from Cancún, you should leave at around 5:30 am.

4. Leave on a full tank

You may find some gas stations along the way, but it’s better to just fill up your tank before you leave so you don’t have to stop.

5. Car A/C is a must

If you rent a car, make sure it has a working A/C, even while driving at high speed on the highway, you may need to cool off.

5 Recommendations when traveling to Chichen Itza with children

When traveling to Chichen Itza with children, you should keep in mind that not all children are fascinated by the idea of going to explore archaeological ruins, but that does not mean that you have to miss the opportunity to visit them. That’s why I leave you a list of recommendations that will make your visit and that of your little ones more pleasant.

1. Stroller

Use of stroller in Chichen Itza with Children

Although the roads are quite irregular, your trip to Chichen Itza with children is possible by walking on the most traveled roads with a stroller, preferably with a stroller with large wheels so that it does not get stuck with stones or branches. A stroller can also be very helpful to help you carry all the things like water, diapers, or even if your children want to rest and you want to continue exploring.

2. Rest in the shadows

Under tha shade in Chichen Itza

There are several places with benches and shadows so I recommend stopping from time to time, in that way, children have the opportunity to cool off, drink water, and you can marvel at the sight of the ruins.

3. Refreshing snacks

Within the archaeological zone, you will find several places where they sell, ice pops, ice cream, fruit, among other things. Carry some cash so you can pamper your kids with something refreshing.

4. Wet wipes

Wet wipes are a great help to cool off, or to clean your hands whenever necessary, although there are public toilets, they are usually very crowded and far so you cannot take them to wash their hands every time they get dirty.

5. Extra entertainment

It does not matter if you go from Cancun, the Mayan Riviera, or Merida, the trip is long and it is good that they bring something to entertain themselves, they can watch a movie, play with a Tablet or carry a toy. In the case of the Tablet and electrical devices, you must be careful, since they overheat in the archaeological zone and could malfunction. If you allow them to use them within the archaeological zone, preferably do it in the shade to avoid accidents.

I hope that with these little tips for your next trip to Chichen Itza with children you can go more prepared to enjoy this wonderful place as a family.

Facts about Chichen Itza

Fact 1. a cenote under the main pyramid of kukulkan.

This is the most recent of our top 10 Facts about Chichen Itza. In August 2015, archaeologists discovered a cenote under the Kukulkan pyramid.

This finding confused the researchers, but for an archaeologist expert in submarine archeology, the answer was simple:

The Mayans knew about the existence of the cenote and built the pyramid over it because the Mayans wanted to represent the universe with their constructions.

The pyramid rises equidistantly between four cenotes, one to the north, another to the south, another to the east, and the fourth one to the west. This new finding would be the fifth cenote, the “axis mundi“, the point where the Sacred Ceiba grew its roots that reached the underworld, and its branches reached the four cardinal points.

visit to chichen itza

Fact 2. The layered Pyramid of Chichen Itza

Like other pre-Hispanic archaeological sites, constructions of the cities were covered during a second, and sometimes more residential phases.

In this case, the first Pyramid in Chichen Itza was built between the years 500 and 800; and again, by the third and currently visible stage, developed over the years. 1,050 and 1,300.

Fact 3. Ceremonial objects at the bottom of the Sacred Cenote

Various research teams have found ceremonial objects at the bottom of the Sacred Cenote, along with animal and people bones whose ages range from 3 to 55 years.

Its origin, however, is uncertain. There are theories that the Mayas practiced human sacrifices; others believe that in reality, these remains reached the bottom of the cenote as part of funerary rituals that would have arrived thereafter they had died.

Others say that the purpose of throwing living beings was not to cause their death but to get them to intercede with the lords of the underworld.

What they do agree on, is that all these rituals were intended to mediate with the entities of Xibalbá to ensure rain and good harvests.

Quetzal bird

Fact 4. The Sound of the Quetzal

There is an electroacoustic effect that occurs in front of a staircase of the main  Pyramid of Kukulkan  in Chichen Itza. When a person claps, the sound bounces in the form of a distorted echo and generates a sound that simulates the singing of a Quetzal.

This new attraction was discovered at the end of the twentieth century by the tour guides of the site.

Calendar representation of the Kukulkan Pyramid

Fact 5. The Pyramid of Kukulkan has a total of 365 steps

The temple of Kukulkan has four staircases, of 91 steps each, which is a total sum of 364. With the upper platform, it adds up to 365 in total.

Each step represented the days of the Haab Mayan calendar, which fits perfectly with the calendar we use today, the Gregorian calendar.

Chichén Itzá and the new seven wonders of the world

Fact 5. A World Heritage Wonder

Chichen Itza was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988 and in 2007, it was considered one of “The New Seven Wonders of the Modern World”, as part of a private initiative where people chose the sites that interested them the most.

Fact 6. Chichen Itza was bought by an American

Edward Herbert Thompson extracting objects

At the beginning of the 20th century, the American Edward Herbert Thompson bought the property where Chichen Itza is located, mainly to drain the Sacred Cenote and extract numerous objects like jewelry and utensils made of gold, copper, and jade.

After various actions from the Mexican government, today it is owned by the State of Yucatan.

Some of the archaeological pieces discovered by Thompson were also returned to Mexico.

Fact 7. The largest Ball Court in Mesoamerica

The Great Ball Court long

The  Ball Court of Chichen Itza  is the largest in Mesoamerica, 70 meters wide and 169 meters long.

The idea of this game was to put a rubber ball through the hoop that is on top of the wall, using the elbows, knees, and faces.

Fact 8. The descent of the feathered serpent

Kukulkan Pyramid Equinox

The last, and most well-known of our Facts about Chichen Itza list is the descending serpent.

The design of this pyramid was made by the Mayan architects who so well mastered the knowledge of the stars and in particular that of the sun.

For this reason, they placed the pyramid so that its shadow could be projected on the sides of the staircase, giving shape to the body of one of its deities, Kukulkan, the feathered serpent whose head is sculpted at the foot of the Pyramid.

Kukulkan Group

The Kukulkan Group is the first set of buildings you see when you enter from the main access and it’s made up by:

  • The Kukulkan Pyramid
  • The Great Ball Court
  • Temple of the Jaguar
  • The Great Ball Court’s South Temple
  • The Temple of the Bearded Man
  • The Tzompantli
  • The Temple Eagles and Jaguars
  • The Venus Temple
  • The Sacred Cenote

The 1000 Columns Group

The 1000 Columns Group is located south-east of the Kukulkán Group and its main building is the Temple of the Warriors. This area is known for its many columns, it doesn’t really have 1000, but it sure seems like it.

  • Temple of the Warriors
  • The Temple of the Tables
  • Group of the Thousand Columns
  • North Pillars
  • The Temple of Sculpted Columns

The Ossuary Group

The Ossuary Group is located south of the Kukulkán Group and its main building is The Ossuary. This area is mostly ignored by visitors because it’s on the way to the Observatory, but you can visit the less-known buildings like the Tomb Platform and Chichanchob.

Here’s the list of buildings you can find in this group:

  • The Ossuary
  • The Tomb Platform
  • Chichanchob
  • The House of the Deer
  • Xtoloc Temple
  • Xtoloc Cenote

The Nunnery Group

The Nunnery Group is located south of the Ossuary Group and its main building is The Nunnery. This is the last of the groups we can visit, there’s another group known as Old Chichén south of this one, but it’s closed to the public.

The buildings you can find in the Nunnery Group are:

  • The Observatory
  • The Nunnery Building

Balamku Cave in Chichen Itza

Balamku cave in Chichen Itza

The Balamkú Cave in Chichén Itzá, which was discovered 50 years ago but remained unexplored until now, is a labyrinthine path with a depth of 24 meters below the surface.

This is a discovery of at least 200 ceramic pieces that remained intact for more than a thousand years in an underground ritual cave in the Mayan city of Chichén Itzá, in the current state of Yucatán.

Balamkú means “jaguar god”, in allusion to the divine quality that the ancient Mayans attributed to this animal, which they believed had the ability to enter and leave the underworld.

Balamkú Cave ceramics

Location of the Balakmú Cave

The Balamkú Cave is located 2.7 kilometers east of the pyramid of El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulkan , one of the seven wonders of the modern world .

The Findings in the Balakmú Cave

The project’s head researcher pointed out that the most important part of this finding is that it’s not altered, it’s not looted, and that all the information was still found in the Balamku Cave.

Balamkú Cave findings

The vast majority of objects found are censers dedicated to Tlaloc , the Mesoamerican god of water, used for rituals and offerings in the Late Classic Maya period (600-900 AD).

The archaeologist explained that several investigations like this one have discarded the initial hypothesis of a Toltec invasion of the Maya and reaffirmed that there must be an influence from the center of Mexico towards Chichen Itza.

The archaeological artifacts belong to seven offerings documented so far and are in good condition since the cave remained sealed for centuries.

The incense burners and vessels discovered in the Balamku Cave still preserve charred remains, food, seeds, jade, shell, and bones, among other elements that the Maya offered during that time to their deities.

The importance of the Cave

The difficult access and morphology of the cave hindered the deposition of these pieces and the celebration of rituals, the reason why the researchers consider that it was a space of great relevance for the Mayans of Chichen Itza.

The archaeologist even thinks that this cave is probably more sacred than the Sacred Cenote itself. He considered it was more important because the effort that represents entering is greater than in the Sacred Cenote , which received offerings from all of Mesoamerica and there were pilgrimages.

The size of the Balamkú Cave

Balamkú Cave size

So far, there has been a preliminary exploration of the first 450 meters of the cave, although it’s estimated that this route would be equivalent to one-third of the actual length.

The researchers are working on the development of a three-dimensional model of the cave under the premise of avoiding any modification.

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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 .

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Mexico Cenotes and ruins

How to Visit Chichen Itza Mexico, The Ultimate Guide

castillo chichen itza

Chichen Itza is the most famous Mayan ruins visited in Mexico, a must-see on your trip. Chichen Itza was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1998, and a Wonder of the Modern World since 2007.

The Riviera Maya and the Mexican Caribbean are the most popular destination in Mexico.

Statistics show that Chichén Itzá, Tulum, and Cobá are among the 4 most visited ruins in Mexico, with the great capital Teotihuacán near Mexico City.

This tells us about the importance of the Riviera Maya as a tourist destination.

chichen itza visitor statistics

In this post about Chichen Itza, Mexico, we’ll share the best information so that you can enjoy the ruins of Chichen just like this iconic destination deserves.

How to get to Chichen Itza, what not to miss, history, tips for the visit, the best tourism, basically everything you need to know.👌

After reading this post you will feel you won’t need a guide anymore when you visit Chichen Itza. However, we suggest you hire one anyway to have a better understanding of this complex civilization.

And with the information we are sharing in this post you will be able to ask more questions and get deeper into the mystery of Mayan history.

chichen itza ruins

Table of Contents

SOME HISTORY OF THE CHICHÉN ITZÁ MAYAN SETTLEMENT

Can you imagine any great capital in history without influences from different cultures? We only have to think of cities like New York, London, Paris… they all have their own cultural imprint together with various foreign influences.

In every big capital, we see temples of different religions, restaurants with different foods, and people of various ethnic groups… the best melting pots are in the capital cities.

Chichen Itza experienced various influences from foreign elements. The most notable influence was from the Toltec culture, bringing a new deity, which was Kukulcán.

chichen itza ruins

Let’s quickly go through the history of Chichen Itza.

Chichen Itza was established in the 9th century AD. It is believed that they were Putun or Chontal Mayans.

These Mayas created a vast domain with a unified culture whose center was Chichen Itza. Once settled, its apogee begins, with the Itzaés as a strong ethnic group.

Before the arrival of the Itzaés, the influence of the architectural style of the Puuc is noticeable.

You should know that the Mayans developed several architectural styles in their different territorial domains and the Puuc was one of them.

This style is evident in buildings such as the Grupo de las Monjas, which belong to the 600 to 800 century AD.

This part is one of the most beautiful in Chichen Itza, so don’t miss it. We will show it to you on the map, step by step because Chichen is very big. 😊

visit to chichen itza

Over the years we can see in Chichen the confluence of two cultural regions, the Mayan and the Toltec.

This gave rise to deep social, political, economic, and religious transformations, especially in the period from 800 to 1100 AD (Early Postclassic).

The most significant is the cult of Kukulcán, the feathered serpent, Quetzalcoatl. This new deity became the central figure of Chichen Itza.

We live in continuous transformation, this is the cycle of life. It is in this period that Chichen reaches its climax.

At the end of its journey, Chichén Itzá was part of the great League of Mayapán, a triumvirate between the three great lineages (the Xiu, Itzaes, and Cocomes) that dominated before the arrival of the Spaniards in the center-north of the Peninsula of Yucatan.

Here is a brief summary of the evolution of Chichen Itza

  • 435 – 600 Foundation of the city
  • 600 – 918 Puuc influence
  • 918 – 987 Increase of the Toltec population. Mayapan lineage
  • 1194-1200 Decadence of Chichén Itzá. 1250 – The city is abandoned

APOGEE: Postclassic stage 800 AD – 1100 AD

cronology of the Maya Civilization

It is easy to observe the continuous transformation in large cities, while small cities remain more isolated and homogeneous over time. Chichen Itza is a beautiful puzzle where you discover different pieces.

Did you know?

✅ Chichen Itza empire covered up to 25 km2 of territory.

✅ The religious, cultural, and administrative center covered about 6 km2, where the elite lived.

✅ The population of Chichen got to a growth that exceed 50 thousand inhabitants.

✅ Chichen Itza has an exceptional road network that communicated with other Mayan cities. These paths also tell us about the importance of Chichen Itza: better connected, and more relevant are the cities.

✅ The Sacred Cenote acquires great importance as it was a place of pilgrimage in the area.

Meaning of Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá means “At the mouth of the well of the itzáes” or “at the edge of the well of the itzáes” (in Mayan: Chi’ ch’e’en = mouth of the well its ja’ = wizards of the water

As we have previously mentioned, the Itza populated this area.

The Chichen Itza archaeological zone is famous worldwide for the game of light and shadow that occurs at each equinox on the steps of the pyramidal base known as El Castillo. (We’ll talk about it further on, in this post.)

chichen itza mexico

CHICHÉN ITZÁ EXPLORATION HISTORY

The ruins of Chichen Itza are among the most documented in the Mayan world. The most illustrious explorers of the Mayan civilization have gone through that Mayan settlement.

We are going to show you the information with photographs because we love these open windows to the past where we can observe directly what happened.

visit to chichen itza

We are fascinated by the history of exploration of the Mayan world. Old photos, documents, and books are a source of knowledge and inspiration in our incursions into that fascinating civilization.

So here below we wanted to share with you a brief chronology of the main explorations led in Chichen Itza.

► 1840: The pioneers of the explorations of the Mayan world were the American lawyer John Lloyd Stephens and the architect Frederick Catherwood, who traveled and illustrated their expeditions through these lands in two books.

Catherwood’s illustrations and Stephens’ narrations have gone down in history for all those enthusiasts of the Mayan world. Featured Book: “Incidents of Travel in Yucatan” (1843)

Castillo chichen Itza Catherwood

► 1881 and 1894: the legendary Alfred P. Maudslay made eight explorations to Chichen in those years. He took photographs of the monuments and glyphic inscriptions and made plaster and papier-mâché molds that are collected in 400 figures that the British Museum preserves.

Maudslay Chichen itza

► 1874/1885: The photographer and writer Alice Dixon Le Plongeon together with her husband Augustus Le Plongeon spent 11 years photographing and exploring in southern Mexico and Central America.

His great legacy was the more than 2,400 photographs and discovering the famous ChacMool of Chichen Itza.

Some of his theories such as that the Mayans had been in communication with Atlantis, ancient Egypt, and Jesus has been discarded today.

chacmool chichen itza

► 1984 – The most controversial of the explorers is surely Edward Herbert Thompson. Fascinated by the stories of the pioneers Stephens and Catherwood, he spent 30 years in the Hacienda of Chichén Itzá, which he acquired.

His explorations to the Sacred Cenote were a historical milestone, being the first cenote diver in an exploration. He is a controversial individual because he stole several finds.

visit to chichen itza

► 1923 – the archaeologist Sylvanus Morley, sponsored by the Carnegie Institution of Washington and the support of the National Geographic Society.

His most relevant discovery was the finding of the 400 columns that are part of the Group of the Thousand Columns, the reconstruction of the Temple of the Warriors, and the identification of the Caracol building.

Morley was a scholar of the Mayan glyphs, who spent the next 18 years deciphering them.

Featured Book: The Ancient Maya (1946)

Sylvanus Morley

► 1938 – Tatiana Proskoriakoff left her mark as an epigrapher with graphics on the Mayan world.

He also illustrated Chichen Itza as we see in the image.

chichen itza tatiana

His legacy is one of the most valued. Her feminine intuition made her discover the Mayan women in the inscriptions: where they only saw priests with robes, she saw that they were female rulers.

Here is an interesting fact about Chichén Itzá that not many know

The Kukulcán Castle was built on top of another identical structure that it keeps inside. The only difference is that it has a staircase only on the north side. Below the temple, there is a cenote. It is currently being investigated by divers trying to reach this cenote through conduits from surrounding cenotes.

HOW TO GET TO CHICHÉN ITZÁ

Chichen Itza is located almost halfway between Cancun and Merida. From Riviera Maya calculate about 2 hours and a half by road and from Mérida 2 hours.

The nearest tourist city is Valladolid, just 40 minutes away. And the closest town where you find several hotels to sleep in is Piste.

STATE: Yucatán

how to get chichen itza

How to get Chichén Itzá by car

Chichen Itzá ruins are located 200 km (124 miles) west of Cancun (2 hr 40 min by car) at 187 km (116 miles) west of Playa del Carmen (2 hr 30 min by car) and 150 km (93 miles) from Tulum town.

From Mérida 119 km (74 miles) (1 hour 45 minutes by car) and from Valladolid just 45 km (28 miles) (45 minutes by car).

Renting a car on the Riviera Maya is something you would want to do if you want to be free to move around and discover all the amazing sites in the region.

It’s a relatively safe place to drive, the roads are good and the sites are well-marked. Therefore traveling by car is a very good option.

However, remember, if you decide to get a car rental, make sure you include full insurance with 0 deductible so you will drive with no stress. 

➣ When renting a car in Mexico we recommend Discover Cars because on their website you can compare different companies and their prices and you can choose between their car insurance or the ones offered by the car rental directly, or both.

How to get to Chichén Itzá by local bus

The ADO bus company offers service to Chichen Itza from different cities. This is surely the cheapest way to visit Chichen Itza on your own.

We recommend you go to the ADO website to see any possible schedule changes and buy your tickets in advance. They have interesting discounts.

🚌 From Cancun to Chichen Itza (3 hours): departure at 8:45 am and return at 4:30 pm. The bus stops in front of the site entrance and leaves from the same place.

🚌 From Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza (3h40), departure at 8h and return at 16h30

🚌 From Tulum to Chichen Itza (2h30): departures at 6:30, 7:15, 8:15, 9:15, return at 4:30 p.m.

🚌 From Mérida to Chichén Itzá (1h50): departure at 6:30 a.m. and return at 4:30 p.m.

🚌 From Valladolid to Chichen Itza (30 min): departures at 10:50 am and 11:15 am, return at 4:30 pm

How to get to Chichén Itzá by taxi

All taxi drivers must have their official price list and they should show it to you.

However, those are only one-way rates. If you want a taxi driver to take you to Chichen Itza, wait for you and take you back, you must agree first on a price for the full day as there are no official prices for this service. Obviously, the more time he has to wait the higher will be the rate.

If you are going to visit Chichén Itzá from Valladolid, we recommend a taxi driver friend who will give you excellent service and will also take you to a nice cenote in the area. CONTACT 👉 Manuel Sánchez +52 985 112 21 43 ( Tripadvisor Maya Adventure Yucatan )

visit to chichen itza

HOW TO VISIT CHICHÉN ITZÁ, ON YOUR OWN OR ON A TOUR?

You only know which one is best for you depending on your travel plan, the comfort you are looking for, the budget, and other factors.

We will try to give you as much information as possible on both options so that you can decide which one is the best way to travel for you. 🙌  🌎

From Riviera Maya, Mérida, and Valladolid you have the opportunity to go on a tour, either private or in a group.

The truth is that going on your own is a long day on the road if you travel from Riviera Maya or Mérida.

Here are some approximate prices in case you are going to visit Chichen Itza on your own.

Calculate a car rental rate of around 800 pesos per day (it depends a lot on the car and the company, of course), 340 pesos for the highway fee, plus 571 pesos for the entrance fee per foreign person, 80 pesos for parking per car.

Plus, if you want to hire a guide at the entrance of the Chichen Itza site it will be an extra 800 to 1000 MXN.

This would be the minimum expense.

The tour makes everything easier and gives a lot of advantages and it’s cheaper everything considered.

In addition, the vast majority of tours offer other interesting stops along the way to complete the visit to Chichen.

There are tours of different prices and possibilities. We offer you a series of possibilities of tours to Chichen Itza, you will surely find yours.

In conclusion, if you are already on a road trip or in Valladolid, it may be more convenient to visit Chichen Itza on your own, otherwise, it’s much faster and cheaper to join a tour.

HIRE A LOCAL GUIDE IN CHICHÉN ITZÁ

If want to learn about Chichen Itza’s history and culture, we definitely recommend the service of a local guide.

In Mexico, only guides accredited by the Government of Mexico can guide in the archaeological zones.

Prices in Chichen range from 900 pesos per guide in Spanish, to 1,200 pesos for a guide in English or another language.

The groups are of a maximum of 10 people. If you are traveling alone you may be able to share the guide with another group if they are starting at the same time and they agree.

We would like to give a shout-out to Toni because he gives very good service and we have known his work for years.

Not all guides have the same knowledge and professional level. We leave you the contact in case you find it useful.

👉 Guide Toni Ojeda +52 985 106 3121 – to arrange a visit you should contact him a few days in advance.

visit to chichen itza

CHICHÉN ITZÁ MAP

On the map of the Chichen Itza ruins you can see the main buildings. Many travelers only visit what would be the buildings of the central area, which we know as the “ Gran Nivelacion “.

Several of the main buildings are located here, but there is much more to explore in Chichen Itza.

map chichén itzá

Normally if you hire a certified guide, they will only take you to visit these main buildings. If you want to tour the entire section with a guide, you should ask him in advance and negotiate a price, because it is not a usual itinerary.

Later we will leave you the contact of a guide who will surely give you a good service. Below we present some of the main buildings of Chichen Itza.

Of course, we recommend you visit the entire site to enjoy the full experience.

CHICHEN ITZA MAIN STRUCTURES (“GRAN NIVELACIÓN “)

The kukulkan castle.

The Kukulkan Castle is the jewel of Chichen Itza, a monument that pays tribute to time. It measures 60 meters per side at the base and 24 meters in height.

When the guide explains this building to you, you will be in awe 😊

castillo chichen itza

THE BALL COURT

The Ball Court is the largest in all of Mesoamerica. It’s around 90 meters long, with a width of 30 meters.

On the walls are the stands. One of the rings is preserved. Temple of the Jaguars: one of the buildings that we like the most for its rich decoration and details that can be seen inside.

Be curious and watch, you will see various characters with different outfits. War scenes are also seen, it is very beautiful.

ball court chihen itza

THE SACRED CENOTE

The Sacred Cenote was the heart of religious activities, not only in the city of Chichen Itza but in the entire Mayan area.

It was a reason for worshiping the god of rain, Chaac.

Objects of gold, jade, copper, cloth, and basketry have been extracted from its muddy bottom, which was apparently thrown as ceremonial offerings.

You will be able to see another cenote, the one we know as Xtoloc. Be careful not to fall into the cenotes and be the sacrifice to the deities yourself 😉

The skulls of defeated rivals were placed on this platform. Even back then, fear was a great tool for power control.

TZOMPANTLI chichen itza

TEMPLE OF WARRIORS

This temple was built on top of the Chac Mool Temple. The Temple of the Warriors is decorated both with representations of the long-nosed god of rain, Chaac and by the bird-serpent-man.

Again we see this cultural symbiosis of the big cities.

visit to chichen itza

PLATFORM OF VENUS

It is just north of the Castle. Venus was a great reference to the celestial vault for the ancient Mayans.

GROUP OF THE THOUSAND COLUMNS

It includes the Market, the Temple of the Sculpted Columns, and the Temple of the Small Tables. It is a beautiful building, and if you wanted to count the columns, we can already tell you that there are well under 1,000.

Chichén Itzá, Yucatán

GROUP OF STRUCTURES OUT OF THE MAIN AREA

Osario group.

Where we can see another platform of Venus, platform of the Tombs (where several burials were found), and El Osario, which is the other building that functioned as a ceremonial temple.

chichen-itza

GROUP OF COLORED BUILDING ( CASA COLORADA )

Also called Chichanchob, which was another building with a religious function (it receives this name due to the red paint on its interior) and El Caracol O Observatorio: it is named for the spiral staircase that is in its interior and because it was most likely used for astronomical observations.

chichen itza mexico

GROUP OF THE NUNS

The buildings of the church and the Annex of the Nuns have architectural characteristics of the Puuc, also of the Chenes (both are 2 of the ancient Mayan architectural styles). The ornamentation of this group is simply wonderful.

visit to chichen itza

CHICHÉN VIEJO (OLD CHICHEN)

There is a group of buildings that are not open to the public, we know them as Chichen Viejo. It can be visited with special permits, we hope one day to be able to do so.

These are residential buildings where the elite lived and small temples. You can see the Temple of the Phalluses, the Temple of the Snails, the Temple of the Monkeys, and the Temple of the Initial Series, from which the group takes its name: Group of the Initial Series.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION CHICHEN ITZA MEXICO

As usual we want to offer the most up to date information for your trip 🛺🌎

✅ Parking lot: 80 pesos per car

✅ Souvenir shops

✅ Possibility to hire a Certified Guide

Chichén Itzá opening hours

Chichen Itza is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day. The last entrance is at 4 pm. From 4:30 you will be asked to leave, by 4.45 for the central plaza.

Chichén Itzá entrance fee

💲614 MXN foreigners 💲284 MXN Mexicans and foreigners with permanent residency.(you need to bring your ID) 💲90 MXN Yucatecan up to 13 yr old

In Chichén Itzá you have to pay for two entry tickets del INAH y CULTUR (this is also valid for Uxmal y Ek Balam)

✔ On Sundays, the entrance is free for Mexicans and foreigners with permanent residence. 

✔ Access to the Mayan ruins is open every day for kids up to 12 years old, students, teachers, and seniors (must show ID).

ALSO FREE ENTRANCE TO CHICHEN ITZA FOR :

Mexicans: over 60 (with official ID) • Retired people with official documentation • Mexican Professors and students (with official ID) • Kids up to 12 ys • Researchers and scholars (with a special permit from the INAH) •

Mexicans and foreigners : with disabilities

visit to chichen itza

5 Tips for visiting Chichén Itzá

✅ Use comfortable light clothing and shoes, a good hat will also help with the high temperatures. There is not much shade in Chichén

✅ Being the most visited ruins you will always find people. The best time is definitely at 8 in the morning, both to avoid the heat and the big crowds

✅ Bring a bottle of water and keep in mind that you cannot walk in with food or alcoholic drinks.

✅ Big backpacks are not permitted. There are lockers

✅ You can hire a certified guide at the entrance

How much time do you need to visit Chichén Itzá ?

If you are going to visit the entire complex, consider about 3 hours.

If you hire a local guide, something that we highly recommend in order to understand and appreciate the splendor of the place, they will be with you for 1 hour and a half.

They are focusing mainly on the buildings in the central square.

You can explore the rest of the section at your leisure.

visit to chichen itza

EQUINOX AND SOLSTICE IN CHICHÉN ITZÁ

In several archaeological sites, we can enjoy archaeo-astronomical phenomena.

The best known of all is the spring and autumn equinox of Chichén Itzá (March 21 and September 22).

On those dates, and keep in mind that the days before and after are equally appreciated, you will be able to observe a phenomenon for 45 minutes with unique and impressive light and shadow.

On the north staircase of the Castle, the one that faces the Sacred Cenote, you will see a light projection in the shape of a snake that gradually descends down the stairs until it exits through the mouth of the feathered serpents that is at the base of the staircase.

Simply spectacular. On these dates, thousands of people gather in the huge Chichen square to enjoy this phenomenon.

Unfortunately, we have bad news, because, despite the fact that it is visible, it is not possible to see the complete phenomenon because the archaeological zone of Chichén Itzá is closed before sunset.

Other phenomena that can be seen is at dawn on days 20, 21, and 22 June, during the summer solstices, where the light only accurately illuminates the stairs on the North and East sides of the Castle.

On the winter solstice, at sunset from December 20 to 22, you can see the shadow that falls on the North and East stairs, the inverted phenomenon.

The mathematical accuracy reveals the ancient Maya’s vast knowledge of mathematics and astronomy.

It is something very beautiful 💛 It can also be observed on the lunar equinox during the early morning of the full moon, the shadow triangles that simulate the feathered serpent.

We have yet to see this, it is not easy to get special permissions for these unique events, but we hope to have this opportunity soon.

solstice chichen itza

CHICHEN ITZÁ SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW

We believe that the Chichen Itza sound and light show is the best show of its kind that you can see in Yucatan.

THE CHICHÉN SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW IS CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

What we love the most about it is the fact of being able to contemplate the main buildings such as the Castle, the Ball Court, and the Temple of the Thousand Columns illuminated at night is a fantastic tour.

In addition to the show itself which is projected on the wall of the Castle, the walk between the buildings illuminated at night is very beautiful and unique🙌

The tour is 45 minutes and the projection lasts 25 minutes, during which you are sitting in a chair in front of the temple of Kukulcán.

Mondays are the only day that there is no show at Chichen Itza

You can buy tickets online on this website

Price: 510 pesos, on Sunday there is a discount for Mexicans: 255 pesos

Hours: 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in winter time (from the first Sunday in October to the first Saturday in April) / 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in summer time (from the first Sunday in April to the first Saturday in October).

Keep in mind that if there is a cancellation due to bad weather, the return of the money is definitely easier if the purchase is made directly at the Chichen Itza ticket office.

visit to chichen itza

INSIDER TIPS – “La Gran Nivelación” what are we talking about? Just as they did in other Mayan cities, before building the structures of the city, they built a large platform on which the buildings of Chichén Itzá are distributed that make up the great complex of the square: The Castle, Ball Court, Temple of the Warriors, El Tzompantli and the Platform of Venus. You can see part of this large leveled structure in the excavations near the Castillo de Kukulcán.

chichen-castillo

WHAT WE DON’T LIKE ABOUT CHICHEN ITZA MEXICO

The great controversy in Chichen Itza is the large number of vendors inside, who sometimes make the view somewhat annoying for some visitors.

We know, after so many years, several vendors, and we know that it is their livelihood and they fight tooth and nail not to be taken out of there, something that has been tried on several occasions.

The local Mayans claim their space to sell. Keep in mind that most tours take tourists to off-site stores where they receive commissions on sales.

Many agencies encourage them not to shop on the premises. It’s been a fight for years.

We try not to comment on it, just explain the reality that you are going to find.

Definitely, the atmosphere would be much more magical without vendors, though.

chichen-vendors-

WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT CHICHEN ITZA MEXICO

Chichen is simply breathtaking. Especially if the guide manages to explain the Castle or Temple of Kukulcán well, you will be able to understand that this building is the most beautiful tribute to the time made by the Mayans. Simply magnificent and precise in every stone.

THE HIGHLIGHTS OF CHICHÉN ITZÁ

Without a doubt, the highlight of Chichen Itza is the building that we know as the Castle or Temple of Kukulcán.

In addition to being a beautiful construction that shocks and impresses the visitor, when they explain the temple itself, you are fascinated.

It is of brilliant mathematical accuracy, there you can appreciate the knowledge of the ancient Maya regarding the domain of time.

visit to chichen itza

WHAT YOU CAN VISIT NEARBY

➡️ Cenote Ik Kil 6 km/ 3.7 miles ➡️ Valladolid 45 km/ 28 miles ➡️ Cenote Yokdzonot 18 km/11 miles ➡️ Cenotes Dzitnup 43 km/ 26.7 miles ➡️ Cenote Oxman 42 km/ 26 miles ➡️ Cenote Selva Maya 39.5 km/ 24.5 miles

➡️ Ek Balam ruins 68 km/ 42 miles

HOW TO VISIT CHICHEN ITZÁ , MEXICO FAQ

Can you bring backpacks to chichen itza.

You cannot enter with bags or luggage. The good thing is that they have lockers available so you can store your luggage during your visit.

Can you bring water into Chichen Itza?

Yes, you can enter with your own water, in fact, we recommend it. You could buy it inside but it’s outrageously expensive.

How long do you need in Chichen Itza?

Consider between 1 hour and a half and 3 hours depending on how curious you are and how much you want to explore.

What do I need to know about Chichen Itza?

Chichen was one of the great Mayan cities of this territory, with a population that exceeded 50 thousand inhabitants.

Why is Chichen Itza so special?

The Toltec influence (it is a culture originating from another region) made it different from other Mayan cities. The worshipping of Kukulcán, the Feathered Serpent or Quetzalcoatl was something remarkable. The Kukulcán Castle or Temple is a unique building, where the feathered serpent is the main protagonist.

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Chichen Itza

Chichen itza overview.

Chichen Itza, in the Mexican state of Yucatan, is one of the world's seven new wonders, and the Chichen Itza trip has been on every traveler's "must-see" list. A sacred city of pyramids and temples and an enormous Mayan city, created and developed before European arrival.

Chichen Itza literally translates to "the mouth at the well of Itza." The Maya built the temples in Chichen Itza with both chronological and ritual functions in mind. In addition, the Maya had an incredible grasp of astronomy and mathematics, and they made these to keep track of astronomical phenomena.

It's now a popular tourist destination and an important archaeological site in Mexico. It was supposedly the 'ultimate' manifestation of Mayan culture, serving as a hub for politics, economy, religion, the military, and architecture. As a result, UNESCO added Chichén Itzá to its list of World Heritage Sites in 1988. El Castillo, the Sacred Cenote, El Caracol, and the Temple of the Warriors are just a few of the many points of interest that can be seen at the Chichen Itza tour site, which is enormous. You'll hear nine echoes in the center if you clap your hands at one end of the Great Ball Court.

Get the Best Deals on Chichen Itza Tours

If you book Chichen Itza tickets with us, you can select from various packages and combos offered by authorized operators. No more standing in huge entry lines—just buy our Skip the Line Tickets and get straight into Chichen Itza. Stroll through the site, past the Observatory, the Temple of the Warriors, the Ball Court, and Kukulkan. The Chichen Itza Sunrise Guided Tour with Lunch Buffet and Pickup is a beautiful experience. We also offer a tour that includes transportation from Mérida to Chichen Itza, a swim in a cenote and a traditional Mexican lunch, as well as an all-inclusive guided visit to Chichén Itzá, cenote from Mérida. Visit three ancient Mayan sites to uncover their enchantment and mystery. This ticket covers Chichen Itza, Coba ruins, and Ik Kil cenote. All tickets have free cancellation and instant confirmation.

Chichén Itzá: Skip The Line Ticket

Stroll through the UNESCO world heritage site, see the holy pyramid temples, and gain insight into the old Mayan civilizations

Admire the outstanding architecture of sacred pyramids i.e. Great Ballcourts, Interior Temple, and Sacred Cenote

Head out to religious and ceremonial site of the Mexican state which served as a hub for politics, economy, religion, the military, and architecture

Grab an opportunity to see one of the Seven Wonders with the Chichén Itzá tickets and delve into the ancient history of Mayan-Toltec culture

  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.
  • ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of arrival.
  • The guided tour is in English & Spanish.
  • Lockers for bags and suitcases are available on-site.
  • The government tax is included in the ticket price.
  • Last admission will be done 1 hour before closing.

Things to Do at Chichen Itza

Sacred Cenote

A cenote is a natural sinkhole or well and a renowned tourist destination, often constructed of limestone. Tour Chichen Itza Sacred Cenote archaeological monument has a 60-m-diameter and is 27-m-deep; therefore, Swimming is prohibited here. However, Some surrounding cenotes are open for swimming for tourists. It is believed that the Pre-Hispanic Maya threw precious artefacts into a well as part of their water deity ritual. Later, they sacrificed humans.

Do Checkout: Chichen Itza Night Show

El Castillo Pyramid

El Castillo, or the Temple of Kukulcán, is the most visited site in the Chichén Itzá tour . The architecture is shaped like a step pyramid with nine square terraces, the highest of which is about 30 meters high. Exquisite serpent heads decorate the base on all four sides, creating the illusion of a slithering serpent at sunset.

Read More:  Chichen Itza History

Temple of the Warriors

Chichen Itza is an engrossing historical site. Around the massive step, a pyramid is surrounded by 200 pillars depicting warriors, serving as flanking elements on the west and south sides of the building. The temple top is reached by a massive stairway where Chak Mool, a Mayan God's messenger, sits.

Also Checkout: Inside Chichen Itza

El Caracol

El Caracol, which translates to "the snail" in Spanish, was a Mayan observatory. The tower's distinctive spiral stairway inspired the name. Mayan astronomers used the flat Yucatán environment to study the sky and space above. It's one of the few spherical structures at Chichén Itzá; other than the structures that Mayans usually built.

Suggested Read: Chichen Itza ruins

Wall of Skulls

The Wall of Skulls displays the severed heads of those who were defeated in battle or sacrificed to the gods. The wall is a massive 60-by-12-meter platform in Chichen Itza. The panels on this "T" shaped structure are adorned with skulls. More than five hundred skeletal figures carved into the wall have been discovered so far.

Must Checkout: chichen itza tours from cancun

Group of 1000 Columns

The group is immediately next to the Temple of the Warrior, a monument in tour chichen itza that is not very well known among visitors. About 200 columns with bas-reliefs of warriors stand where once a roof did, but the roof is long gone. The columns are now on display for admiration.

Checkout: Tour Chichen Itza from Merida

Know Before You Go For Chichen Itza

Essential Information

  • Timing and Best Time: Hours of operation for Chichén Itzá are year-round from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. People flock to Chichen Itza on a regular basis. To avoid crowds, go early in the morning after the site opens, or late in the evening before closing. It will take you around 9-10 hours to complete the tour, including travel time.
  • Location and How to Reach: Chichen Itza is in Yucatan's east. You can opt for Return Transfers from Cancún to Chichén Itzá. It is the ideal travel option because it saves time. Cancún, Riviera Maya, or Playa del Carmen are the pickup locations. After the tour, you'll be dropped off before 6:00 PM. Taking a two hours drive to Chichén Itzá is another easy alternative.
  • Things to Keep in Mind: Chichen Itza is typically visited in a single day, so pack light. You need a Mirrorless Camera if you want to take professional-quality pictures. This area of Mexico is hot and sunny almost all year, so pack sunscreen. Hydration is crucial, so always have water bottles with you. The cenotes of Yucatan are well-known, so bring a swimsuit and an extra set of clothing.

Must Read: Things to Do Around Chichen Itza

Tips and Facilities

  • Tips: Travelers should book their Chichén Itzá tour online, as the site now only allows 3,000 visitors daily. You'll be doing your entire tour on foot, so choose a pair of sneakers that fits comfortably. Avoid the crowds by scheduling your trip during the week, preferably in the morning or evening. Bring some extra money to cover the cost of any entrance fees, souvenirs, or meals.
  • Facilities: Chichen Itza has restaurants for all budgets and tastes. The Pueblo Maya, Luna Cafe, Hotel Okaan, and Hacienda Chichen are fantastic places to eat. Before entering, guests can pay to store large luggage and carry-ons. Lockers are available for rent if visitors need a place to store personal belongings. Photography is authorized, but professional cameras, tripods, or selfie sticks require an entrance fee.

Also Read: Restaurants Near Chichen Itza

Facts

Some of the exciting facts of Chichin Itza are:

  • Chichen Itza can be roughly translated as "the mouth at the well of Itza".
  • Archaeologists believe that the Mayans made human sacrifices at Chichen Itza to alleviate the effects of drought on their society.
  • Although Chichén Itzá was a prosperous metropolis in its days, nobody knows for sure what brought about its decline sometime around 1000 A.D.
  • There are claims that Mayan astronomers conducted in-depth research on Venus and its phases at the Observatory.
  • If you clap your hands at one end of the Great Ball Court, you'll hear nine sounds reverberate directly at the center of the court.
  • El Castillo is made up of two smaller pyramids within it, much like a Russian nesting doll.
  • Hundreds of carved skulls on the Platform of Skulls were placed to terrify potential attackers.

You May Also Like: Chichen Itza Private Tour

Explore Chichen Itza

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FAQ's of Chichen Itza

Why is chichen itza so famous.

Chichen Itza is one of the largest cities during the zenith of Mayan civilization and now one of the "New 7 Wonders of the World" due to its massive concentration of cultural significance. Attracting nearly a million tourists annually, the monument is renowned for preserving some of the finest architectural works of Mayan civilization.

What safety measures are in place at Chichen Itza?

Learn about these Updated COVID-19 safety requirements before booking your chichen itza trip. Chichén Itzá currently allows online reservations and 3,000 daily visitors. In addition to this, it is required for everyone to maintain a 1.80-meter social distance and wear masks. Tour groups are limited to 10 people.

How many people are allowed into Chichen Itza at a time?

The archaeological site of Chichén Itzá has a daily visitor cap of 3,000 people. More than two million tourists flock to this Mexican landmark every year to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What is the best time to visit Chichen Itza?

Chichén Itzá is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every year. If you want to avoid crowds, the best times to visit are right when the site opens or right before it closes, closer to November. Book Chichen Itza tickets in advance for a seamless experience.

What is the maximum size of a guided tour to Chichen Itza?

The Chichén Itzá guided tour groups may only accommodate a maximum of ten guests at this time.

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Destinations , Mexico · Last Updated: March 14, 2024

Self-Guided Tour of Chichén Itzá: How to Visit Without a Tour!

Temple Kukulkan or El Castillo as it's also known is one of the most impressive sights to visit at Chichén Itzá - our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

🗺 Wondering how to visit Chichén Itzá without a tour? Easy! Print our free map, follow our self-guided tour, OR download our recommended audio guide to Chichén Itzá.

With our quick self-guided tour and map, you’ll be able to visit Chichén Itzá trouble free… and better still you’ll do it without paying for a guide. Below we explain a little bit of the history & how to navigate your visit around Chichén Itzá. We provide a brief description of each attraction followed by walking directions that you can use alongside our free printable map .

Step 1️⃣ – print map or download it to your phone (no strings attached) Step 2️⃣ – visit Chichén Itzá like a pro!

In addition to our AWESOME self-guided walking tour of Chichén Itzá, you need to read our guide on how to get from Valladolid (& beyond) to Chichén Itzá . In it we cover everything else you’ll need to know about visiting Chichén Itzá. Details like how to visit without ALL the crowds, what the tickets cost , nearby cenotes for swimming and the best modes of transport for your visit.

SO… to sum up, if you’re looking to visit and experience Chichén Itzá without a tour, then read on. Because we got you completely covered!!

* This post may contain affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you decide to click through and make a valid purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Chichén Itzá Self-Guided Tour – The History!

The Observatory or Caracol as it's also known at Chichén Itzá - our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

Chichén Itzá – Wonder of the World! It kind of rolls off the tongue, but what does this actually mean. How has Chichén Itzá earned this place of such high ranking? Here’s a little history to help you understand more…

The Civilisation of Chichén Itzá

The Ossuary or High Priestess Temple at Chichén Itzá - our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

Chichén Itzá is one of the biggest Mayan cities, located in the Northern Yucatan peninsula of Mexico . It dates back to the pre-Columbian era, starting in around 400-550 CE (depending on the source). And the development of Chichén Itzá continued until the 10 th century.

According to the experts, some 35,000-50,000 people once lived here at any given time. And it was said to be a major religious, political, military and trading hub for the Yucatan area from 600 CE onwards. Chichén Itzá covered over two square miles and was made up of various spaces and constructions, for both everyday and ceremonial purposes. It also included suburbs, which were interconnected by sacbeob – the Mayan term for paved roads and walkways.

Chichén Itzá’s name is derived from the two nearby cenotes – these are large fresh water sink holes or wells. Translated, chi means mouth, chen means wells and Itzá is the name of a Mayan group from the Yucatan region. Therefore, in Mayan, Chichén Itzá refers to the mouth of the well of the Itza .

It was these cenotes, that the Mayans at Chichén Itzá heavily relied on for their fresh water supplies. Read more about the role these cenotes played and their importance to the Mayan culture, in our section further below describing the Sacred Cenote.

🌀 Do you want to swim in beautiful cenotes? Read this post – We explain more about the types of cenotes, and the best ones for swimming in Valladolid.

The Fall of Chichén Itzá

A visitor stands at the base of the Nunnery and Iglesia at Chichén Itzá - with a self-guided tour

The decline of Chichén Itzá is somewhat up for debate among historians. However, most believe that people left the city around 1100 CE, due to changing weather patterns and several years of drought.

Then with the rise of the Mayan city – Mayapan in the 1200’s, Chichén Itzá never recovered to its former glory. When the Spanish arrived in 1526, they found a flourishing community, but far from that of the earlier years.

Chichén Itzá – Wonder of the World

The Temple of Kukulkan without tourists - when visiting Chichén Itzá it's best to do so early in the morning as recommended by our self-guided tour.

Chichén Itzá was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1988. Then named as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World as part of a global census in 2007.

The grand space in which Chichén Itzá covers and the state in which it has been preserved is a tribute to Mayan architecture and archeology.

Entrance & Tickets for Chichén Itzá

We recommend purchasing tickets onsite at Chichén Itzá. But read our full post on how to get to Chichén Itzá from Valladolid and beyond. As we explain everything from ticket prices, to the best way to get there and loads of extra tips.

Free Printable Map for Self-Guided Tour of Chichén Itzá

visit to chichen itza

🗺 Download our free map of Chichén Itzá that we created just for your self-guided tour. Keep it on your phone, or print it for your walk. 📍 And don’t forget the second page which gives you a step by step explanation of how to navigate between the key sights at Chichén Itzá. 👆 Tap this link to download… no need to sign-up, no strings attached. Just a pretty little map, created by us with love… especially for you!

Within the city of Chichén Itzá there are numerous sites to be seen. It’s SO much more than the world famous Temple of Kukulcan – also known as El Castillo. Included at the site, is the largest court for Pok Ta Pok (the traditional Mayan ball game), a star observatory and numerous temples.

And so, coming up we share our self-guided tour of Chichén Itzá. We highlight the main sites you can expect to see, in sequence that we suggest you visit them. The tour begins at the entrance gate and continues in a clockwise direction around the site.

Beginning the Self-Guided Tour of Chichén Itzá

The Ossuary or High Priestess Temple at Chichén Itzá - our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

Each section below, begins first with an explanation of the attraction or sight, followed by the walking tour directions in a highlighted box.

It’s important to note, we list below eight main sights or key attractions of Chichén Itzá in our self-guided tour. However, you will find many more as you wander this remarkable site. We suggest that if you want to know and understand these smaller known sights, then book a guided tour. It’s better to think of this as a self-guided tour of Chichén Itzá for the common people … if you’re an enthusiast, get the guide!

🚶Walking Tour Directions Starting the tour at the ticket office, follow the path which leads straight. This pathway is both the entry and exit point. It leads though a small forest for a couple hundred metres, before emerging into the large central grassed area to the western side of (#1) The Temple of Kukulcan / El Castillo .

#1 The Temple of Kukulcan / El Castillo

A man walks in front of the Kukulkan Temple early in the morning at Chichén Itzá without many tourists.  Our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

Undoubtedly, the Temple of Kukulcan is the most iconic building at Chichén Itzá. It’s also the first structure you see after walking the path from the entrance.

The stepped pyramid is also known as El Castillo in Spanish, which means the castle. And it’s dedicated to the Mayan deity Kukulcan the feathered serpent god. You can read more about Kukulcan here on Wikipedia .

It’s essentially the centrepiece of Chichén Itzá and stands at just under 100 ft tall (30 metres).

Fun Facts About El Castillo

Kukulkan Temple or El Castillo early in the morning at Chichén Itzá without many tourists.  Our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

The Mayan people were well advanced in knowledge related to Astronomy and Mathematics. In fact, each of the four sides of the Kukulkan Temple has 91 steps. If you’re quick at multiples, you’ll have realised that this adds up to 364 steps. Along with the central upper platform, this makes 365. That’s right… it corresponds to the days of the year. Mind blowing stuff right!

What’s more, each side of the pyramid aligns with the cardinal points. In other words, north, south, east and west.

Look out for the northern set of stairs which have the ornately carved snake heads at the bottom. It’s on this same set of stairs during the equinox, that the sun casts a shadow across them which appears to be the body of a snake. This represents Kukulcan descending to fertilise the fields, which marks the time for the fields to be sowed.

If you clap your hands while standing at the base of the steps of El Castillo, the reverberating sound mimic’s that of a Mexican Quetzal. Be sure to try it… our kids enjoyed trying to make their claps loud enough.

🤔 And did you know… Kukulcan Temple is actually built on top of two smaller temples.

🚶Walking Tour Directions We recommend that you make a quick 360 0 walk around (#1) The Temple of Kukulcan / El Castillo . It tends to be quieter on the opposite side of the Pyramid, and if you’re visiting early in the morning, the rising sun is behind you which makes for better photos.

#2 The Great Ball Court

The Great Ball Court at Chichén Itzá without many tourists.  Our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

The Great Ball Court is where the deadly ceremonial game of Pok Ta Pok was played. There are several courts uncovered within Chichén Itzá, but the Main Court is by far the most impressive. At 70 metres (229 feet) wide and 168 metres (551 feet) in length, this is the largest playing field in all of Mesoamerica.

It’s side walls stand at 12 metres (39 feet) with the singular hoops at 8 metres (26 feet) off the ground.

The Great Ball Court hoops at Chichén Itzá

The game would consist of two teams and a rubber ball, sometimes weighing up to 4 kgs. The teams would need to keep the ball off the ground and get it through the hoops, but players were not able to use their hands or feet.

The two hoops are carved with intertwining serpents. And the lower sloped section of the walls are also carved with many depictions of the bloody game. These include headless corpses and images of players holding decapitated heads.

🚶Walking Tour Directions When you’ve taken your photos of El Castillo head towards the (#2) Great Ball Court passing the Temple of the Jaguars on your way. You’ll enter the ball court from its southern end, walking on through to the Temple of the Bearded Man at its northern end.

#3 Wall of Skulls

The wall of skulls at Chichén Itzá

This is a low level platform where the outer façade has had skull motifs carved into it. Stacked side by side, one on top of the other. It’s thought that this was a ritual platform. Wherein human sacrifices were made and the heads of those sacrificed from the Pok Ta Pok games, would have been placed on display.

🚶Walking Tour Directions Exit the northern end of the ball court to your right and walk towards the (#3) Platform of Skulls. Next up, make your way to the Platform of Venus .

#4 The Sacred Cenote

The Sacred Cenote at Chichén Itzá.  Our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

The Sacred Cenote or Well of Sacrifice is found at the end of the ceremonial walkway, through a section of forest. The cenote is fenced off and the main vantage points are to either side.

This cenote is believed to have been used purely for various ceremonies of ritual. Interestingly, explorers have discovered gold, ceramics, jade, jewels and the remains of over 200 human bodies in the bottom of the Sacred Cenote. These were found during initial dredging expeditions made by Edward Herbert Thompson between 1904 – 1910.

Among the find was this gold artefact, now on display at a Museum in Mexico. Read more about the Mayan artefacts found in Ek Balam .

An artefact found in the sacred cenote at Chichén Itzá

Can you Swim at the Cenotes in Chichén Itzá?

  • In short… no you can’t swim at the cenotes at Chichén Itzá. There are two cenotes within the site however these are not for swimming. They have viewing areas at each side, providing views down into the cenote. The best views however are at this one – the Sacred Cenote.
  • If you do want to visit a cenote for a swim, then look to add Cenote Ik Kil to your day. It’s not far from Chichén Itzá on the road to and from Valladolid. A lot of guided tours provide this as an option. The colectivo transport from Valladolid to Chichén Itzá also has an option to visit Ik Kil Cenote for an additional cost.

🚶Walking Tour Directions From the Platform of Venus head north along the road, between the many art and craft vendors. This path leads through the jungle towards the (#4) Sacred Cenote .

#5 The Temple of Warriors

The Temple of the Warriors at Chichén Itzá.  Our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

This is another large stepped pyramid named after the various warrior carvings and statues found within its surroundings.

In addition to the main pyramid, you’ll find a multitude of columns at the entrance and along the southern wall. These would have once supported an immense roof structure. Many of the columns were also carved.

At the top of the temple sits the statue of Chacmool. This prominently seen structure or carving features regularly throughout Mayan culture and history, as a place for offerings. Given that visitors are not permitted to walk on the ruins at Chichén Itzá, Chacmool can’t be seen at the top of the Temple of the Warriors from the ground. However, a quick online search shows the repeated image of a reclining Chacmool , resting on his elbows, head turned and facing to the front.

🚶Walking Tour Directions After the cenote make a U-turn and head back down the same path. As you come back out to the central grassed area turn left. Then make your way to the Temple of the Tables and next to this is the (#5) Temple of Warriors .

#6 Group of a Thousand Columns, the Market Place & Xtoloc Cenote

One of the thousand columns at Chichén Itzá.

The Group of a Thousand Columns and the Market Place are two of several features that form a large irregular quadrilateral plaza.

The Group of a Thousand Columns is actually only around 200 columns. However, when you see them spread out, in the various configurations, standing in straight rows one after the other you can see how they took this name.  The columns are both circular in some sections and square in others. With many having carved or stucco motifs and depictions of Toltec Warriors and Priests that would have once also been painted. The columns would have once supported a large roof structure. 

Also found within the space are three large grinding wheels. The Market Place was given its name by early Spanish colonisers who thought the design of the area was similar to their own marketplaces. However, the true use of the space is thought to be a combination of religious, political and civil in its use. 

🚶Walking Tour Directions Carrying on in the clockwise direction from the Temple of the Warriors head south following the impressive (#6) Group of a Thousand Columns . Part way down the rows you will find a path that cuts between the columns on your left. Take this path which will bring you out into a large shaded area with the columns continuing on your left. This area form the group of a thousand columns and the Market Place . Navigate the area, in the same way following a clockwise direction and looping back to the same point you entered. Once you have exited the Group of a Thousand Columns, turn left again following the path to Xtoloc Cenote .

#7 The Observatory / El Caracol

The Observatory or El Caracol at Chichén Itzá without many tourists.  Our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

The Ossuary or the High Priestess Temple – is a smaller stepped pyramid, with stairs on each side leading to the top. The temple is built over a deep cavern, with the access to it at the top of the pyramid. During excavations several tombs were found within the entrance to the cavern.

The Observatory or El Caracol (the snail) – as it’s also known, is a unique building to the south of the site of Chichén Itzá. While the stepped and tiered base is relatively standard of Mayan architecture, the circular dome positioned at the top is somewhat unique. Even more so, is the spiralled (or snail shaped) staircase that leads to the Observatory.

It is believed that the Observatory, due to its uninhibited view of the night sky, was where the astronomers tracked the movement of the stars. Within the circular structure there are numerous openings that are thought to be aligned to view various constellations throughout the year. In particular to allow for the tracking of Venus.

🚶Walking Tour Directions From Xtoloc cenote turn back on yourself and find the path leading left or west towards the Ossuary or the High Priestess Temple . Continue south down the path through the jungle which will emerge out into another large grassed area with the (#7) Observatory / El Caracol on your left.

#8 The Church & Nunnery

The Nunnery and the Iglesia with motifs of Chaac the Mayan God of Rain.

The Church & Nunnery buildings are found at the southern end of the complex. They are some of the most detailed and best preserved due to their recent restoration. It’s said the Nunnery could have received its name from the Spanish conquistadors who found similarities to their Spanish convents from home.  

The Church, also known as the Iglesia is found next to the Nunnery complex and is actually a temple dedicated to Chaac the Mayan God of Rain . It’s is a single story building consisting of only one chamber with a single door. However as with the nunnery its detailed façade is quite spectacular. If you look closely at the friezes on the image above, you’ll notice the Chaac masks represented in the carvings.

🚶Walking Tour Directions Follow the path south which will bring you around to the (#8) The Church and the Nunnery. Next up, make your way back up to El Caracol but take the path on your left which leads to the Red House and the Deer Temple . These structures are found in a smaller grassed area and are the last sights on our list. To get back, you must return to El Caracol, then exit via the same main path you entered from towards the ticket office.

Audio Guides & Guided Tour Options at Chichén Itzá

A father and his daughters walk in front of the Kukulkan Temple early in the morning at Chichén Itzá without many tourists.  Our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

It is likely that you’ll be asked on multiple occasions if you’d like a guided tour as you approach the ticket office. These of course are great options if you want more detail than we are able to offer you here. From our understanding, these guides range from 650 to 1000 MXN pesos for around 3 hours.

Also click through to our blog link below on Valladolid to Chichén Itzá, as we share the best guided tours and private tours if you are visiting nearby from Valladolid, Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Included in these tours are other sights and cenotes that we recommend. Trust me I spent a great deal of time, going through many guided tours, reading the fine print and the reviews to find you the best options.

👀 Read our blog on the best guided and private tours – Valladolid (and beyond) to Chichén Itzá.

If however, this seems a little pricey but you’d still like a little more detail than we have offered here in our self-guided tour, then check out these audio guides on Get Your Guide.

Is Chichén Itzá Worth Visiting

A mother and her daughters... in front of the Kukulkan Temple early in the morning at Chichén Itzá without many tourists.  Our self-guided tour helps visitors understand this impressive structure without an organised group tour

Ooh the big question… Well this is how we see it. If you’re in the Yucatan Peninsula then YES, most definitely, it’s well worth setting a day aside to see Chichén Itzá. After all, it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Just be aware that it’s super busy, so gets very touristy.

If you’re not one for crowds, then try to get there early. You might also want to consider visiting Ek’ Balam ruins instead. They are absolutely beautiful, set in peaceful jungle and without the overwhelming crowds.

You might like to check our other posts for your itinerary and visit to Valladolid.

  • The best cenotes of Valladolid – we recommend and review our favourite cenotes.
  • The best place to stay in Valladolid – our review of the Oryx Hostel.
  • The best things to do in Valladolid – (post coming soon).

And of course don’t forget to bookmark or pin this post: how to visit Chichén Itzá without a tour!

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We now travel full-time and have plenty more itineraries and guides to share on all the destinations we visit. Sign up to follow our journey! (And don’t worry we won’t spam you with unnecessary emails.)

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September 4, 2023 at 7:18 pm

Great information! Thank you. I am going to share with our guests at Tim’s Ocean Condos in Cancun. Thank you very much!

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September 12, 2023 at 9:51 pm

Super! Thanks for your message Megan and glad to hear it is helpful 🙂

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October 17, 2023 at 6:28 pm

Great information Sharon, I will visit Chichen Itza early November and will use your guide!! I might also try Ek’Balam and will use your info too. Thanks for sharing. Would you happen to have any info on Cobá? I heard is not allowed anymore to cling the main pyramid? Thank you again. Ed

November 20, 2023 at 10:47 pm

Thanks for your message Ed, and glad to know that our guide is helping others with their visits. With regards to Coba, unfortunately we didn’t get there… it will have to be next time for us 🙂

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BEST Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza On Your Own [2024]

  • March 22, 2024

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Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our  full disclosures here .

Are you considering visiting Chichen Itza on your own? I’ve got all the details you need to know before you go without a tour!

I get it. You want to visit the majestic wonder of the world, Chichen Itza! But you don’t want to stress your bank account or feel like you’re missing out by not joining a guided Chichen Itza tour .

I was in the exact same boat not too long ago! My husband and I were determined to visit Chichen Itza during our recent trip to Mexico. 

And of course, we wanted to do it in the most budget-friendly way possible, truly living up to our motto of   #SeeTheWorldSaveADollar

So here’s the deal, this article will ensure you’re fully prepared before you go to Chichen Itza on your own in 2024.

visiting chichen itza on your own

How much will it actually cost you? Are there any restrictions you need to know about?

And what are the absolute must-see spots during your self-guided tour of Chichen Itza ?

These burning questions are probably on your mind, and I’m here to share our recent first-hand experience and guide you through it all.

With the right preparation and a small dose of adventure, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable experience at this world wonder.

Continue reading for a complete guide on how to visit Chichen Itza on your own.

Key Takeaways :

  • Consider driving and factor in tolls and parking.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and the midday sun.
  • Dress in lightweight, sun-protective clothing.
  • Essential items: Bring cash, bug spray, and water.
  • Explore the temples, platforms, and cenote using this self-guided tour .

Table of Contents

Where To Go to Visit Chichen Itza?

First things first, let’s talk about the logistics.

Chichen Itza is located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, approximately 95 miles west of Tulum or 125 miles west of Cancun.

If you’re planning to drive to Chichen Itza yourself , it’s essential to factor in the cost of tolls . 

It’s important that you have Mexican pesos on hand to pay the toll when driving to Chichen Itza. 

During our visit, we made the mistake of not having enough Mexican pesos and found ourselves unable to pay with US dollars.

As a result, we had to pull over and search for someone to exchange our currency with.

Needless to say, it wasn’t the most ideal scenario.

To avoid any inconvenience, I highly recommend exchanging some currency for Mexican pesos before heading on this journey.

Do better than us!

visiting chichen itza

The amount you should set aside for roundtrip toll expenses typically falls within the range of 500 to 1000 Mexican pesos. 

That’s pretty broad, I know, but the exact toll fees depend on your starting location and the route you choose.

I recommend using Goole Maps to get a more accurate estimation of toll costs.

Simply input your destination and Google Maps will provide an estimate of the toll costs.

This will help you determine the exact amount you should carry for tolls.

visiting chichen itza on your own

You can also toggle on the “avoid tolls” option when using Google Maps. 

However, depending on your starting point, it may not always be possible to completely avoid toll roads.

Take this into consideration when planning your journey.

You’ll also need to budget 80 Mexican pesos for Chichen Itza parking. 

Once you’ve parked, get ready to explore! The Chichen Itza entrance fee is 614 Mexican pesos.

Keep in mind that the Chichen Itza ticket price may vary, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the official website before your visit.

US Dollars and other foreign currency are not accepted, so have Mexican pesos on hand. 

You can pay with a credit card but that is not always reliable and you’ll need to present identification with the credit card.

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When To Go to Chichen Itza?

Timing is everything when it comes to visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site .

To make the most of your experience and capture stunning photos without the crowds at Chichen Itza, it’s essential to arrive early.

Chichen Itza opens at 8 am and closes at 5 pm, but the last tickets are sold at 4 pm. 

Make it a priority to arrive before the tour buses roll in to have a more exclusive experience at this world wonder. 

The early wake-up call is definitely worth it. During our visit to the Chichen Itza ruins, we arrived at 9 am. 

We managed to beat the crowds and had the opportunity to explore Chichen Itza without the hordes of tourists.

visiting chichen itza on your own 2

As the late morning and afternoon rolled around, hundreds of visitors started flooding in. 

Having those precious moments of uninterrupted exploration in the early hours made all the difference.

So set that alarm clock, get there early, and enjoy Chichen Itza before the rush begins. 

Also, of note, every Sunday there is free admission for Mexican citizens and foreigners living in Mexico with proof of identification. 

What this means for you - Sundays are likely the most crowded in general.

It might be best to plan your visit to Chichen Itza on a different day of the week.

RELATED ARTICLE: How to Get to Machu Picchu Without Inca Trail

What To Wear to Chichen Itza?

As you plan your Chichen Itza adventure, keep in mind that it is located in an area with maximum exposure to sunlight. I’m talkin', no shade.

To protect yourself from the scorching sun, wear light-colored clothing that covers your skin. A wide-brimmed hat is a must-have accessory. 

The very first thing I bought when I pulled up to Chichen Itza was a hat for 200 Mexican pesos. 

visiting chichen itza on your own 3

You can either bring your own hat or buy one once you get there to ensure you have some shade during your exploration.

And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes , as you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking. 

Since Chichen Itza experiences hot weather for most of the year (think 90F degrees hot), sunscreen is your best friend . 

Protect your beautiful skin from sunburns by applying a generous amount of sunscreen with a high SPF .

If you plan your visit to Chichen Itza during the cooler months of December and January, when temperatures can dip down into the 60s F, consider bringing an extra layer such as a poncho for added comfort.

Always check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure you dress appropriately.

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What To Bring to Chichen Itza?

Now that you know what to wear, let’s discuss what essentials to bring along . Below we'll go through a quick travel checklist.

Make sure to bring enough cash with you.

You’ll find numerous vendors at Chichen Itza, and bargaining is a common practice.

If you’re eyeing a souvenir, be prepared to negotiate the price.

Vendors often sell similar items, so don’t hesitate to explore your options and find the best deal.

Remember to stick to the price you have in mind and remain consistent.

If you’re patient and persistent, you might end up with a great item at a fraction of the initial asking price. 

The initial asking price is significantly inflated, specifically targeting tourists like yourself.

When we were browsing for souvenirs, we found an item we really liked.

However, the seller initially quoted a price of $450 Mexican pesos, which was more than what we were willing to pay.

It was negotiation time. We managed to strike a deal and purchased the same item for just $50 Mexican pesos. 

This price was much closer to what a local would typically pay for the same item, and it felt like a fair transaction.

visiting chichen itza

You’d be surprised how much you can save by engaging in a friendly negotiation.

It’s a good way to strike a balance between budget-consciousness and supporting the local community. 

So don’t hesitate to haggle and find a price that works for both you and the vendor. It’s all part of the shopping experience at Chichen Itza.

2. BUG SPRAY

Chichen Itza is located in an area abundant with mosquitoes.

These pesky insects can quickly turn your visit into an itchy nightmare.

Arm yourself with insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay and ensure a more pleasant experience.

Hydration is key! The sun at noon shines directly overhead, intensifying the heat.

Stay hydrated throughout your adventure by carrying a water bottle with you.

It’s essential to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration . 

Trust me, you don’t want to pass out in the middle of exploring this incredible ancient city.

Last-Minute Travel Checklist

Don't let last-minute chaos stress you out. Download our essential travel checklist & embark on your adventures prepared!

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What To See at Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza is one of the new seven wonders of the world and for good reason.

The detailed architecture is way before its time. 

When visiting the Chichen Itza ruins, there are several incredible sights that you shouldn’t miss. 

To make the most of your visit and gain deeper insights into these fascinating structures, consider downloading a self-guided audio tour .

For under $10 USD, the self-guided audio tour gives you access to detailed audio narration, informative text, and a live GPS map, enhancing your experience and helping you discover the hidden wonders of Chichen Itza.  

visiting chichen itza

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The Temple of Kukulcan also known as the Castle (El Castilo) steals the spotlight at Chichen Itza. 

It’s the iconic pyramid that instantly captures your attention.

Prepare to be amazed by its intricate architecture and fascinating history.

This temple is a symmetrical masterpiece, featuring 91 steps on each of its four sides with one additional step at the very top.

That’s a total of 365 steps, representing every single day in the year.

But here’s the coolest part: when you clap your hands in front of the stairs, the sound of a sacred quetzal bird echoes through the air. 

Of course, Chichen Itza is not just about the Temple of Kukulcan.

You’ll come across several other temples, each with its unique charm and story. 

Here are some others that you don’t want to miss out on: 

  • Temple of the Tables (Templo de las Mesas)
  • Temple of the Beared Man (Templo del Hombre Barbudo)
  • Temple of the Warriors (Temple de los Guerreros)
  • The Nunnery (Las Monjas)
  • The Snail Observatory Temple (El Caracol)
  • Temple of Xtoloc (Temple de Xtoloc)
  • Thompson’s Temple (Palace of Ahau Balam Kauil)
  • Osario Pyramid (El Osario)

Every structure has its own tale to tell.

You can still catch snippets of their explanations and gain insights into the historical and cultural significance of each site by positioning yourself within earshot of the guided tours passing by.

Or, if snooping is not your thing, you could download a self guided audio tour for less than $10 USD.

By exploring Chichen Itza on your own, you can go at your own pace and delve into the details that captivate you the most.

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Great Ball Court

My husband used to play basketball in college so one of the first things he wanted to check out at Chichen Itza was the great ball court (Gran Juego de Pelota). 

As we took a look around we learned more about the game.

This massive court was used for a unique Mesoamerican sport that resembles basketball.

Players were sacrificed through decapitation when they lost this game, and sometimes even if they won the game because it was considered an honor to be sacrificed.

I guess you could say “Ball was life.”

visiting chichen itza

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Chichen Itza boasts several remarkable platforms that are worth exploring.

Visit the Skull Platform (El Tzompantli, Plataforma de los Craneos) to witness a chilling display of skulls.

These skulls served as a warning to intruders, reminding them of the consequences of challenging Chichen Itza’s might.

Another impressive platform is the Platform of Eagles and Jaguars (Plataforma de Aguilas y Jaguares), adorned with intricate carvings depicting these majestic creatures.

Lastly, don’t forget to check out the Platform of Venus (Plataforma de Venus), which offers a glimpse into the celestial knowledge of the ancient Mayans.

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Sacred Cenote

The Sacred Cenote (Cenote Sagrada) is a natural sinkhole of great importance to the Mayan civilization. 

While swimming is not allowed in this cenote, you can still admire its beauty and learn about its significance in the Mayan religious practices.

If you’re looking for a great cenote experience, check out Cenote Oxman which is not too far from Chichen Itza.

We took a 40-minute drive to Cenote Oxman in Valladolid after visiting Chichen Itza. It cost only 150 Mexican pesos to enter Cenote Oxman.

You can watch our full experience below.

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Marketplace

The Marketplace (El Mercado) is a vibrant hub that offers a wide array of traditional crafts, jewelry, textiles, and more.

Remember to negotiate prices and find that perfect memento to commemorate your adventure.

The Group of the Thousand Columns (grupo de las mil columnas) is right across from the marketplace. 

It’s a captivating sight to see and provides a glimpse into the architectural wonders of the ancient Mayans.

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FAQs on Visiting Chichen Itza on Your Own

What are the Chichen Itza opening hours?

  • Chichen Itza hours are from 8 am to 5 pm. The last tickets are sold at 4 pm.

How much time to visit Chichen Itza?

  • The average time spent at Chichen Itza is around 3 hours.

Can you go to the Mayan ruins without a tour?

  • Absolutely! You can visit Chichen Itza on your own without the need for a guided tour.  

Do you have to cover up at Chichen Itza?

  • There is no strict dress code at Chichen Itza, but it is advisable to wear light-colored and breathable clothing that protects from the sun.

Is there a fee to enter to Chichen Itza archaeological zone?

  • Yes, there is an entrance fee. We paid 533 Mexican pesos, but you can check for any updates or changes in prices before your visit on the official website.

Do I need bug spray at Chichen Itza?

  • Definitely! Chichen Itza is in a region known for mosquitos, so it’s highly recommended to bring and apply bug spray before exploring the site.

What not to do at Chichen Itza? 

  • Climbing the pyramids is strictly prohibited to preserve the ancient structures. Swimming in the cenote is not allowed either.

What structures can be found at Chichen Itza?

  • Temple of Kukulcan, Temple of the Tables, Temple of the Bearded Man, Temple of the Warriors, The Nunnery, The Snail Observatory Temple, Temple of Xtoloc, Thompson’s Temple, Osario Pyramid, the Great Ball Court, Skull Platform, Platform of Venus, Platform of Eagles and Jaguars, and the Group of the Thousand Columns. 

Can you still climb the pyramid at Chichen Itza?

  • No, climbing pyramids at Chichen Itza is prohibited.

Can you swim in the cenote at Chichen Itza?

  • No, swimming in the Sacred Cenote at Chichen Itza is not allowed.

Why was Chichen Itza abandoned?

  • This remains a mystery, but it’s believed that a combination of political unrest, ecological changes, and the decline of Mayan civilization played a role.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Chichen Itza On Your Own

Visiting Chichen Itza on your own is not only possible but also highly worthwhile. 

Now that you’re equipped with the essential details including the best times to visit, the must-see sights, and even an estimate of the costs involved - you can plan your trip with confidence.

After reading this article, you know the best way to visit Chichen Itza on your own, and you can explore at your own pace to make the most of every moment. 

Don’t forget to put your negotiation skills to good use at the marketplace, where you can snag the perfect deal on souvenirs to bring back home.

As you explore the temples and platforms, prepare to be amazed by the ancient history and architecture.

visiting chichen itza on your own 4

From the iconic Temple of Kukulcan to the fascinating Skull Platform, each site holds a unique story.

To make the most of your visit, remember to arrive early to beat the crowds, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, stay hydrated throughout the day, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of this world-wonder experience.

If you found this article helpful, be sure to share it with your favorite travelers and pin it to your travel boards on Pinterest!

2 thoughts on “ BEST Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza On Your Own [2024] ”

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I visited in 2019 & everything you’ve said was true to back then also. The drive is sooo lonnng, I did the guided tour & kept waking up thinking “are we there yet?” LOL! I can definitely see that you covered more ground doing it by yourselves so this is something for me to consider. Thank you!

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Lol, sometimes doing it yourself is much more worth it. Thanks for your support and for reading the blog!

Comments are closed.

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Inteligencia Artificial recrea la visita de la Princesa de Mónaco en Chichén Itzá: FOTO

Inteligencia Artificial recrea la visita de la Princesa de Mónaco en Chichén Itzá: FOTO

Hace más de 50 años, los Príncipes de Mónaco, Raniero III y Grace Kelly , visitaron Yucatán , donde recorrieron la zona arqueológica de Chichén Itzá . 

Fue el 30 de septiembre de 1968 cuando los Príncipes de Mónaco  recorrieron las zonas arqueológicas mayas y visitaron las ruinas de Uxmal y Chichén Itzá. 

visit to chichen itza

Durante su recorrido recibieron el aplauso y la admiración de decenas de personas que se encontraba presenciando la visita de los soberanos. 

visit to chichen itza

Esta es una de tantas importantes visitas que ha tenido la ciudad maya de Chichén Itzá a lo largo de su historia y se mantiene en la historia de Yucatán. 

Sin embargo, hay pocos recuerdos impresos sobre la visita de los Príncipes de Mónaco, ya que la única fotografía se encuentra en blanco y negro, además de que está deteriorada. 

visit to chichen itza

Otras Noticias

Dos nuevas rutas de Va y Ven se tendrán durante este sábado y domingo en Mérida como parte del calendario del mes de marzo

Estas dos rutas de camiones se unirán al Va y Ven en Mérida este fin de semana

Estas dos rutas de camiones se unirán al Va y Ven en Mérida este fin de semana

El calor irá en aumento en Yucatán en los próximos días, elevando la temperatura a más de 40 grados

Yucatán será una 'mega rosticería' hoy viernes; estos serán los municipios hasta con 42 grados

Yucatán será una 'mega rosticería' hoy viernes; estos serán los municipios hasta con 42 grados

La ciudad de Mérida alcanzó su sensación térmica más alta en la Temporada de Sequía 2024, de acuerdo con el Ciafeme UADY

Mérida se rostiza; alcanza sensación térmica de más de 50 grados este viernes

Mérida se rostiza; alcanza sensación térmica de más de 50 grados este viernes

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  1. Guide to Visiting Chichén Itzá

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  2. Chichen Itza: One of the Seven Wonders of the World

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  3. Visit Chichen Itzá at sunset

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  4. Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Chichén Itzá

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  5. Pyramid Chichen Itza : México Travel Experience

    visit to chichen itza

  6. Guide to Visiting Chichén Itzá

    visit to chichen itza

COMMENTS

  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. 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.

  3. 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 ...

  4. Chichen Itza

    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 ...

  5. 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.

  6. Chichen Itza -- World Heritage Site -- National Geographic

    Get facts, photos, and travel tips for Chichen Itza, a World Heritage site in Mexico, from National Geographic. ... When to Visit. The ruins are open daily. Chichén Itzá's climate is ...

  7. Visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico

    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.

  8. Ultimate Travel Guide to Chichén Itzá (2024)

    Table of Contents Guide to Chichén ItzáA trip to the beautiful Yucatán Peninsula would not be complete without a visit to the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Chichén Itzá was the primary cultural and ceremonial center of the Mayan civilization and has become one of Mexico's most-visited archaeological site ...

  9. Guide to Visiting Chichén Itzá

    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.

  10. 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 ...

  11. 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.

  12. 9 tips you need to know before visiting Chichén Itzá

    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.

  13. Chichén Itzá: 10 Things to Do and Know + Day Trip Itineraries

    Save time waiting in line! Get a unique skip-the-line admission ticket to Chichen Itza when you pre-book. 2. Visit the site counter-clockwise starting with El Castillo. Beyond the gates begins the Chichen Itza archaeological site. First, you'll walk a few minutes until the path opens up to a clear field and you start to see ruins.

  14. 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 ...

  15. 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 ...

  16. Chichen Itza

    Worst time and day to visit Chichen Itza. The worst hours to visit Chichen Itza are between 11 am and 3 pm when most of the tour buses arrive. The worst day to visit Chichen Itza is on Sundays when every person with a valid ID from México can get it for free. Another bad option that mostly depends on you, is the Chichen Itza Equinox because it ...

  17. 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 ...

  18. How to Visit Chichen Itza Mexico, The Only Guide You Need

    🚌 From Cancun to Chichen Itza (3 hours): departure at 8:45 am and return at 4:30 pm. The bus stops in front of the site entrance and leaves from the same place. 🚌 From Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza (3h40), departure at 8h and return at 16h30. 🚌 From Tulum to Chichen Itza (2h30): departures at 6:30, 7:15, 8:15, 9:15, return at 4:30 p.m.

  19. Chichen Itza

    The Chichen Itza Sunrise Guided Tour with Lunch Buffet and Pickup is a beautiful experience. We also offer a tour that includes transportation from Mérida to Chichen Itza, a swim in a cenote and a traditional Mexican lunch, as well as an all-inclusive guided visit to Chichén Itzá, cenote from Mérida.

  20. 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 ...

  21. Chichen Itza Ruins: Mexico's Wonder Of The World!

    Chichen Itza has a "light & sound show" that starts at 7pm in the fall and winter or 8pm in the spring and summer. It's included in the price of admission. Try to visit first thing in the morning when they open, or late in the afternoon to avoid the huge tour-bus crowds.

  22. Self-Guided Tour of Chichén Itzá: How to Visit Without a Tour!

    If you do want to visit a cenote for a swim, then look to add Cenote Ik Kil to your day. It's not far from Chichén Itzá on the road to and from Valladolid. A lot of guided tours provide this as an option. The colectivo transport from Valladolid to Chichén Itzá also has an option to visit Ik Kil Cenote for an additional cost.

  23. BEST Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza On Your Own [2024]

    It's all part of the shopping experience at Chichen Itza. 2. BUG SPRAY. Chichen Itza is located in an area abundant with mosquitoes. These pesky insects can quickly turn your visit into an itchy nightmare. Arm yourself with insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay and ensure a more pleasant experience. 3.

  24. El Castillo, The Largest Pyramid Of Chichén Itzá

    Until then, about 2 million people visit Chichén Itzá every year to view El Castillo and explore this once-mighty Maya city. After reading about the history of El Castillo, learn how the pyramids of ancient Egypt were built. Then, read about Gunung Padang, the Indonesian megalith that may be the oldest pyramid in the world.

  25. Chichen Itza! Was too broke to visit any other touristy place

    18 likes, 2 comments - calebe.cm on March 21, 2024: "Chichen Itza! Was too broke to visit any other touristy place "

  26. Inteligencia Artificial recrea la visita de la Princesa de ...

    Hace más de 50 años, los Príncipes de Mónaco, Raniero III y Grace Kelly, visitaron Yucatán, donde recorrieron la zona arqueológica de Chichén Itzá. Fue el 30 de septiembre de 1968 cuando los Príncipes de Mónaco recorrieron las zonas arqueológicas mayas y visitaron las ruinas de Uxmal y ...