Welcome to Chichen Itza, one of the crowning jewels of Mexico’s rich history in Central America.
As a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is one of the best things to do in the Riviera Maya region.
We visited Chichen Itza when we were in Valladolid for a couple of days, we were so mesmerized, and agreed this was a highlight in our tip.
Key Takeaways:
- Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon from November to March for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
- Key Attractions: Explore El Castillo, The Great Ball Court, The Temple of the Warriors, and the sacred Cenote Sagrado.
- Access and Stay: Easily reachable from Cancún and Mérida, with nearby Valladolid offering additional attractions and accommodations.
Historical Background
Chichen Itza began as a small settlement and grew into a powerful city that influenced the region both culturally and politically. The Mayans, and later the Toltecs, left behind incredible structures that show their understanding of astronomy, architecture, and religion. The stories etched in stone here are nothing short of magical.
How Old is Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Mexico, began its development around the late Classic period of Mayan civilization. Historical records and archaeological evidence suggest that the city was founded approximately between 600 and 780 AD.
Over the centuries, Chichen Itza evolved significantly, reaching its peak during the Terminal Classic (800–900 AD) and continuing to play a pivotal role into the early Post-Classic period (900–1200 AD).
It was a big deal for trade, politics, and culture back in the day. The different buildings there show it had lots of different influences.
Planning Your Visit to Chichen Itza
Best Time to Visit Chichen Itza
To beat the heat and the crowds, the best times are either early morning or late afternoon. The weather from November to March is cooler and more comfortable for exploring.
Getting There
Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Chichen Itza is easily accessible by car or bus from cities like Cancún (2 hours) and Mérida (1.5 hours).
We usually rent our car at the airport when we arrive in a new country. We find it convenient to start our travels from the airport with the car so that we don’t have to struggle with our luggage and make our departure smooth.
When we travel, we always rent our car with Discover Cars. Their platform is straightforward and user-friendly, offering a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices.
Entry Fees and Tours
Entry fees change, but expect to pay around 480 MXN (about 24 USD). We recommend getting a guide once you arrive; they offer invaluable insights that you might miss otherwise.
Luckily, Chichen Itza is one of the most famous monuments in Mexico so your choice for guided tours are endless. Whether you would like a private tour or a budget-friendly tour with a guide, it’s up to you.
We used GetYourGuide to book our tour. The platform was convenient for comparing different options and finding a tour that suited our itinerary and interests.
Key Attractions at Chichén Itzá
El Castillo (The Kukulkan Pyramid)
This massive pyramid is the centerpiece of Chichen Itza and never fails to impress. We walked up to El Castillo, the sheer scale and ingenuity behind its construction left us in awe. If you’re there during the spring or autumn equinox, you’ll see the shadow of a feathered serpent slither down the staircase—an unforgettable sight.
The Great Ball Court
This is where ancient Mayan people played a ritualistic ball game, and the size of the court is simply staggering. Standing in the middle, you can clap your hands and hear a sharp echo bounce off the walls. The game they played here wasn’t just for fun; it held deep religious significance, and sometimes the stakes were as high as life or death.
The Temple of the Warriors
When we passed this complex, We were fascinated by the rows of carved columns depicting warriors. It felt like an army frozen in time, guarding the secrets of their city. The temple at the top is off-limits for climbing, but even from the ground, its grandeur was tangible.
A Thousand Columns
Walking among the columns of A Thousand Columns, you can image the lively marketplaces of the past. Each column stands as a tribute to the vibrant daily life of the ancient city.
The Cenote Sagrado (Sacred Cenote)
Our visit to Cenote Sagrado was fascinating! This deep sinkhole held immense spiritual importance for the ancient Mayans. They believed it was a link between our world and the underworld, offering gifts to the gods. Standing at its edge, the history of human sacrifice gave us chills.
Accommodation Options Nearby
To book all our accommodations when we travel, we always use Booking.com. They have the best prices and very flexible cancellation policies depending on the accommodation you choose.
Nearby Attractions
Valladolid
This charming colonial town is just a 45-minute drive from Chichen Itza. We love strolling through the vibrant streets, visiting the San Bernardino convent, and cooling off in Cenote Zaci, right in the heart of town.
Cenote Ik Kil
Only a short drive from Chichen Itza, this beautiful open-air cenote is perfect for a refreshing swim after a day of exploring. The hanging vines and waterfalls make it feel like you’re swimming in a natural cathedral.
Ek Balam
This lesser-known archaeological site is about an hour from Chichen Itza. It features well-preserved ruins and a large acropolis that you can climb. The view from the top is spectacular, giving you a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle.
Coba
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the ruins of Coba are about two hours away. You can rent bicycles to explore this ancient Mayan city, which is still largely covered by jungle. Climbing the Nohoch Mul pyramid, one of the tallest in the Yucatán, is a highlight.
Merida
About an hour and a half from Chichen Itza, Merida is the cultural heart of the Yucatan. We enjoyed exploring its historical architecture, vibrant markets, and excellent museums. Don’t miss the Paseo de Montejo for a leisurely walk amid beautiful colonial homes.
Final Tips and Tricks for Visiting Chichen Itza
Wear Comfortable Footwear: Expect a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must.
Bring Sun Protection: There’s minimal shade at Chichen Itza. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen regularly to protect yourself from the sun.
Pack Water and Snacks: It’s essential to stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle, and although there are vendors selling food and drinks, having your own snacks can be handy, especially if you’re sticking to a budget.
Check for Special Events: If your itinerary is flexible, check if there are any special events or light shows, like the “Nights of Kukulkan” light and sound show, which can offer a unique way to experience the site.
Photography Tips: For the best photos, aim for early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer, and the shadows create dramatic effects on the pyramids and temples.
Respect the Rules: Follow all posted signs and guidelines. This includes not climbing on the ruins and not touching the carvings.
Conclusion
That’s a wrap for this blog post!
We hope you have an amazing time at Chichen Itza, let us know in the comments below how your experience was.
