How to Plan Your Pilgrimage to the Beautiful Chichen Itza

As soon as I stepped out of the airport with my carry-on luggage, the tropical breeze and the vibrant bird songs greeted me warmly—reminding me so much of Bali. Within minutes, I was swept up by the throng of drivers ready to whisk travelers off to their beachside resorts. Just a 15-minute drive, and I found myself in the heart of Cancún’s lively tourist zone: a stunning coastal strip adorned with towering resorts, each offering incredible ocean views. On my first morning, I was treated to an unforgettable sunrise right from my window—a perfect welcome to Cancún.

Cancún is the kind of place that easily turns a short visit into an extended stay. There’s something truly magical here, with its dazzling beaches, adventurous watersports, vibrant nightlife, and a cuisine that celebrates fresh seafood. Check out my Cancún Travel Guide for everything you need to know.

Located along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Cancún sits at the gateway to a rich cultural landscape. This region, on the eastern edge of the Yucatán Peninsula, is the heart of the ancient Mayan civilization, stretching over 96 kilometers south. Here, history comes to life, making it an ideal launchpad for an unforgettable journey to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Let me take you on a perfect day trip from Cancún to explore this awe-inspiring site. But it’s not just about Chichen Itza—the trip covers other fascinating stops that will give you a deeper understanding of Mayan history and culture, and enrich your time in this beautiful part of Mexico.

Why Chichen Itza?

While Chichen Itza hardly needs any introduction, let me share three compelling reasons why this ancient site should be at the top of your travel list:

Chichen Itza is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It’s true—the title says it all. Although the selection was based on public voting, Chichen Itza’s place among other global icons like Machu Picchu, the Taj Mahal, the Colosseum, Petra and the Great Wall of China (plus the Great Pyramid, which holds an honorary status and to be honest, Christ the Redeemer isn’t quite at the level of the others sites, but it was public voting.) speaks volumes about its cultural and historical significance. Chichen Itza is a gateway into Mexico’s pre-Hispanic past and a must-see for anyone exploring Cancún. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique glimpse into Mayan civilization, making it almost rude to skip it on your trip to the Yucatán.

Chichen Itza is easy to get to. Chichen Itza is located about 200 kilometers from Cancún, which translates to just a pleasant 2.5-hour drive through the Yucatán’s lush lowlands. Multiple day tours depart daily, making it a stress-free addition to your itinerary. Whether you opt for a private vehicle or a group tour, prices are reasonable – and sometimes you can snag a discount if you bundle other excursions. After enjoying Cancún’s beaches and nightlife, taking a day to explore these incredible ruins offers the perfect cultural break.

Chichen Itza is a place filled with Mayan Secrets. The Mayan civilization has much more to offer than just a calendar that was famously linked to the “end of the world” in 2012. Chichen Itza brings to life the secrets of a culture that disappeared mysteriously yet left behind architectural marvels and profound insights into science, religion, and astronomy. Curious about the Mayans’ beliefs, their sophisticated calendar system, or their stunning structures? There’s no better way to immerse yourself in their legacy than walking through this fascinating site.

Chichen Itza 101

Originally hidden deep in the Yucatán jungle, Chichen Itza was founded around 600 AD, near the site of an ancient meteorite impact. It served as a vital hub of governance, religion, and trade within the Mayan world. Remarkably, the ruins have stood for over 1,500 years, thanks to their isolation in the jungle.

The name “Chichen Itza” means “at the mouth of the well of the Itza,” referring to the site’s largest cenote, Xtoloc, which provided fresh water for the civilization. During its peak, Chichen Itza underwent two phases – its initial rise in the 7th century and a revival in the 10th century, influenced by the Toltec culture. Evidence of this influence can be seen in the site’s artwork, featuring Toltec symbols like jaguars, eagles, and the feathered serpent god, Kukulkan.

Despite its grandeur, Chichen Itza was eventually conquered by Mayapan in the 13th century and later fell to Spanish colonizers in the mid-16th century. The pyramids and structures that remain today are awe-inspiring reminders of the Mayan people’s scientific and architectural achievements, as they thrived alongside sacred cenotes and made groundbreaking discoveries in astronomy and mathematics.

Seven Wonders of the World

So what are the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World?

1. Great Pyramid of Giza, El Giza, Egypt the only one that still exists.
2. Colossus of Rhodes, in Rhodes, on the Greek island of the same name.
3. Hanging Gardens of Babylon, in Babylon, near present-day Hillah, Babil province, in Iraq.
4. Lighthouse of Alexandria, in Alexandria, Egypt.
5. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, in Halicarnassus, Achaemenid Empire, modern day Turkey.
6. Statue of Zeus at Olympia, in Olympia, Greece.
7. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, in Ephesus (near the modern town of Selçuk in present-day Turkey).

New Seven Wonders of the World

1. Great Pyramid of Giza, El Giza, Egypt (Honorary Status)
2. Great Wall of China, China.
3. Petra, Ma’an, Jordan.
4. Colosseum, Rome, Italy.
5. Chichen Itza, Yucatán, Mexico.
6. Machu Picchu, Cuzco Region, Peru.
7. Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India.
8. Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

An architectural wonder

The tallest structure in Chichen Itza is the El Castillo, a pyramid that’s usually featured in travel books and guides. Note that Chichen Itza is a heritage site with a collective of ancient structures and the pyramid is always mistaken, for or referred to, as “Chichen Itza.” The pyramid stands about 100 feet tall, and it’s the tallest and largest structure within Chichen Itza; El Castillo is also not the only pyramid preserved in Chichen Itza, the Osario Pyramid is located nearby, but it’s much smaller. Unlike the Great Pyramid of Giza in Cairo, El Castillo is not a tomb, but a temple, although sacrifices were offered on the altar in ancient times. The entire heritage site covers an area of about 1.9 square kilometers, and the highlights are relatively close to each other so it’s very easy to explore and navigate.

Ticket price and opening hours

Ticket Prices & Admission

Visiting Chichen Itza is an incredible experience, and whether you join a day tour or explore on your own, here’s everything you need to know to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

If you’re planning to visit independently, Chichen Itza offers two types of tickets. General admission for international visitors is approximately $30 USD (614 pesos). For Mexican citizens, the entry fee is lower: 286 pesos Monday through Saturday, and 130 pesos on Sundays. These rates have been updated recently, so it’s a good idea to double-check online before your visit.

For an unforgettable experience, consider attending the Kukulkan Nights light and sound show at the iconic Kukulkan Pyramid. The show starts at 7:00 p.m., and tickets go on sale at 3:00 p.m. on the same day. Admission for this spectacular show is 600 pesos, and it’s well worth the cost to see the pyramid come to life after dark.

Opening times

Chichen Itza is open year-round from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. While these times are consistent, it’s always smart to check for any last-minute changes on the official website, especially in cases of crowd control measures or weather-related closures.

The best time to visit Chichen Itza

If you’re wondering when to go, the best time to visit Chichen Itza is during the cooler months from November to May. Summer temperatures can soar, and June brings frequent rains. I personally found December to be a sweet spot – sunny days with cooler temperatures that make walking around the ruins much more pleasant.

For fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons in early spring or autumn. This period offers a more relaxed experience, without the peak-season throngs. Additionally, to beat the heat and avoid crowds, I recommend arriving as soon as the gates open at 8:00 a.m., or later in the afternoon after 3:00 p.m., when most tour groups have departed. Though the entrance area might feel congested at first, once inside, the vast expanse of Chichen Itza provides plenty of room to explore at your own pace.

An excursion from Cancún to Chichen Itza

After I got picked up by the shuttle bus the group lined up and boarded a large coach bus heading to Chichen Itza. It was a combo tour package so I enjoyed a small discount for visiting both Chichen Itza and Tulum.

On day one, we are going to see Chichen Itza and Cenote, on the way back. I will share more about Tulum and Coba in my next post, and you will be surprised that the other lesser-known heritage sites have quite a lot to see, too.

The advantage of joining the day tour, first and foremost, is spared me the hassle of handling my own transportation, and it covered a few more spots on my way to Chichen Itza. But if you are traveling on a budget, the ADO bus company provides services to commute between Cancún and Chichen Itza. The first bus takes off at 8:45 am and the last returning bus departs at 4:30 pm.

If you have a rental car, parking in Chichen Itza is quite easy – but have peace of mind that your rental car won’t be vandalized or stolen, park down at the entrance instead of leaving it on the side of the road.

Valladolid, Yucatán

It was such a pleasant day. The sun was shining and tourists from all over the world joined this tour. The tour guide was knowledgeable as he gave us background information about Mayan culture and history.

Our first pit stop was in the Spanish colonial city of Valladolid; it is a popular tourist spot because of its close proximity to a number of Mayan ruins, as well as Cenote Ik Kil. It also became part of the Pueblo Mágico promotional initiative.

Valladolid is situated in the inland eastern part of Yucatán state with about a population of 50,000, making it the third-largest community in the state. Valladolid was named after the old capital of Spain and the city is a replica of any historic town in Spain.

Once the coach bus reached the city I could see classic Spanish-style architecture everywhere. The Cathedral of San Servacio O Gervasio is a 16th-century Spanish colonial Cathedral and the focal point of the city.

Valladolid has a chessboard-like city grid while the Cathedral is the center, standing next to the main square, Francisco Canton Rosado, where souvenir shops and restaurants are located. It was a nice stop to check out the colonial past and refresh it before carrying on our journey to the ancient Mayan Wonder.

Discovering the Mayan secret

As we continued our day tour, we made a brief stop at a Mayan Cultural Village. While it primarily serves as a spot for tourists to buy handcrafted souvenirs, I was intrigued by the artistry and symbolism in many of the items. Whether you’re a fan of traditional keepsakes or prefer creating your own custom souvenirs – For example, custom keychains bulk online – there’s something meaningful about taking home a piece of the culture.

But beyond the souvenirs, Chichen Itza and its surrounding region hold deeper insights into one of the most sophisticated ancient civilizations – the Mayans. As our guide shared stories of their achievements, I couldn’t help but feel awe at how much this culture shaped human history.

After visiting the ruins, our group headed to lunch, where we had the chance to reflect on the Mayan accomplishments we’d just learned about. Our guide shared fascinating stories, weaving together ancient history with the breathtaking sights we’d just witnessed.

One thing I recommend is packing plenty of water and sun protection. The Yucatán sun can be relentless, especially when you’re exploring the vast grounds of Chichen Itza. Wearing comfortable shoes is also key—trust me, the walking is worth it, but you’ll want to be prepared!

The Maya civilization began over 3,500 years ago, stretching across what is now Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. This advanced society left behind stunning monuments and architecture that still stand today, like the Pyramid of Kukulkan, which dominates the Chichen Itza site. But the Mayans were much more than master builders—they were brilliant astronomers, mathematicians, artists, and engineers.

You’ve probably heard about the Mayan Calendar and the infamous 2012 prophecy. Yet, beyond the hype, the Mayans developed one of the most accurate calendars in human history, guiding agricultural seasons and religious events. Their precision in astronomy was equally impressive. They meticulously tracked the movements of the moon, sun, and planets like Venus and Mars, using this data for both ceremonial and practical purposes. It’s fascinating to think that they understood celestial cycles that we only confirmed centuries later!

Significant inventions and discoveries of the Maya Civilization:

Astronomy. We all know about the leap year, and we celebrate it every 4 years – so did Mayans. It is believed that the Mayan calendar is more accurate than the Gregorian calendar, which uses 365.25 days in a year. They worked out that the length of a lunar month should be 29.5308 days, and so 81 lunar months equal to 2,392 days. More, they discovered the 584-day cycle of Venus, and they studied Jupiter, Mars, and Mercury, obtaining celestial information like obscuration, or the path of one planet in front of the other. All this work has left insights to astronomers and how they understand space.

Mayan Calendar. The Mayan calendar may have ended in 2012, their work of the Haab was the sun-based calendar (using 365 days a year) standardized modern calendar.

Sports. Mayans love their sports. That’s why an expansive ball court is an important element where both players and spectators can enjoy the games, like pok-a-tok or hotchpotch.
The ball court is built at the foot of sanctuaries to pay tribute and respect to the deities.

Chocolate. Yes! The Mayans were the first to discover how to use cacao beans between 250 and 900 AD. It’s hard to imagine how lives are like now had the Mayans not knowing how to mix cacao bean with pepper and cornmeal, which led to the use of Cacao and everything that led to the making of Chocolates.
In ancient times, cacao beans were valuable enough to be used as a currency, it’s literally edible gold.

Medicine. Well…. the Mayans used hallucination drugs, not exactly the ecstasies that are found in today’s rave parties. Instead, the shamans in ancient times discovered stimulating drugs that have the effect to relieve pain and increase energy.
A number of these substances were adopted to make painkillers in modern medicine.

Mathematics. Te Mayans introduced “0”.
More, they have a rather accurate and sophisticated numeric system. One is that the number 0 is still used among us today.

Art. Mayan art is not exactly an invention (art has been since ancient times) but it was unique in its own way and is widely applauded by people around the world. its pattern, visual, and color are also adopted and applied in today’s modern art, which could be found on many decorations and walls. A wide range of materials is used, from wood, jade, obsidian, and so on.

Writing System. The Glyphs is the most advanced form of writing and the Mayans used around 700 different glyphs, and astonishingly 80 percent of the language is still understood today. The Maya script is accepted to be the most comprehensive writing system in Mesoamerica, and the majority of Mayan history was recorded in this system.

Rubber. Yes, plastic was invented by Charles Goodyear, officially, by mixing chemicals to form polymers, and so on. Interestingly, it is believed that the Mayan produced elastic from latex and mixed it with other plant substances to make elastic items with various properties, including bouncy balls for their ball games.

What are the Chichen Itza highlights?

When we finally arrived at the archaeological site, the first thing that struck me was the sheer number of visitors – yes, the entrance was bustling. But once we stepped through, I realized how vast the space actually was. Despite the crowds, Chichen Itza’s main attractions have enough room for everyone to soak in the majesty, both up close and from a distance.

Here are the must-see highlights you can’t miss when exploring this ancient wonder:

Old Chichen Itza

El Castillo (Temple of Kukulkan)

Arguably the most iconic structure of Chichen Itza, El Castillo is a towering pyramid that dominates the landscape. It’s often mistaken as Chichen Itza itself, but in fact, it’s just one of many awe-inspiring monuments here. The pyramid was meticulously designed to reflect the solar calendar; each of its four sides has 91 steps, and when you add the top platform, it totals 365—a direct nod to the number of days in the year. Our guide explained how this pre-Columbian temple was not only a ceremonial center but also a marvel of Mayan engineering and astronomy.

A special moment for every visitor is to gather in front of the pyramid and clap your hands. The sound that echoes back is said to resemble the chirp of the sacred Quetzalcoatl, the plumed serpent deity of the Mayans. It’s a chilling experience that brings the ancient rituals to life!

Great Ball Court

Chichen Itza is home to the largest Mesoamerican ball court ever discovered. Standing in this vast open field with towering stone walls on either side, you can almost hear the echo of ancient cheers. In this sacred place, the Mayans played the deadly game of pok-ta-pok, where the stakes were often life or death. The “goals” – stone rings set 20 feet high on the walls – are where players had to pass the rubber ball, using only their hips. Imagine the intensity of the game, knowing that it was played in honor of the gods, and sometimes, the losing team met a grim fate.

The walls themselves lean inward, creating acoustics that allowed the ball’s bounce to resonate, ensuring spectators could follow the action.

Temple of the Warriors

This massive, three-tiered pyramid stands as a reminder of the military might and religious significance of the Maya.

Surrounding the Temple of the Warriors are hundreds of carved stone columns, representing soldiers lined up for battle. At the top, you’ll find the famous Chacmool statue, a reclining figure holding a bowl—where offerings, often human hearts, were presented to the gods. The influence of the Toltec culture is evident in this temple, with its depictions of warriors, jaguars, and eagles.

Looking closely, you can imagine the solemn rituals that once took place here—an eerie yet fascinating connection to the past.

Temple of the Great Jaguar

The temple features two statues of Jaguars and it was believed to be a depiction of a scene of the war with the Toltecs in the 10th century. The jaguar was an animal that Mayans feared in the jungle, and it’s also a symbol of power and strength.

Tzompantli (Skull Rack)

This structure is not for the faint-hearted. Known as Tzompantli, or the Skull Rack, it’s a chilling reminder of the human sacrifices that were central to Mayan beliefs. Stone carvings of skulls adorn the walls, each with a distinct and unsettling expression. Located near the Great Ball Court, this area once displayed the heads of sacrificial victims. The Mayans believed that offering human life to the gods was essential for the balance of the universe. It’s haunting to stand here and think about the lives that were taken in devotion.

Sacred Cenote

While there are many cenotes (natural sinkholes) in the Yucatán, the Sacred Cenote at Chichen Itza holds particular significance. This was not a place for swimming or recreation – this cenote was a sacred well, believed to be a portal to the underworld. The Mayans would offer treasures, and sometimes human sacrifices, to appease their gods here. Though you can’t enter the cenote, gazing into its still waters offers a moment of reflection on the deep spirituality of the Maya people.

New Chichen Itza

Observatory (El Caracol)

One of the most fascinating structures is El Caracol, known as the observatory. This circular tower was built to study celestial events. The Mayans were expert astronomers, and from this observatory, they tracked the movements of stars, planets, and eclipses. El Caracol is perfectly aligned with the position of the sun during the equinox, when light would enter the observatory, illuminating the structure in a symbolic union of science and spirituality.

Nunnery (Casa de Las Monjas)

Despite its name, the function of Casa de Las Monjas remains a mystery. This intricately decorated building features detailed stone carvings of Mayan gods, animals, and geometric patterns. With its many chambers and elaborate facade, it’s one of the most beautiful structures at Chichen Itza. The Mayans often used such architecture to display their mastery of both religious iconography and artistic technique.

High Priest’s Grave

Although badly damaged, the High Priest’s Grave is another noteworthy stop. Archeologists found treasures such as jade vases and seashells within the grave. The fact that such objects were buried here reflects the wealth and power of the Mayan elite. Today, you can still see the partially reconstructed site, which serves as a testament to the ancient people’s burial practices and their belief in the afterlife.

Tips for Your Visit:

• Arrive Early: The gates open at 8:00 a.m., and getting there early allows you to explore before the crowds and the midday heat.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, as there’s not much shade on the site.
• Plan for the Equinox: If you visit during the spring or autumn equinox, you’ll witness a magical event at El Castillo, when the sun’s shadow creates the appearance of a serpent slithering down the pyramid steps.
• Don’t Miss the Light Show: Consider staying for the Kukulkan Nights show. This stunning light and sound show brings Chichen Itza to life after dark, offering a completely different perspective of the site.
• Bring Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and light clothing are a must, as there’s little shade around the site.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The site is vast, and there’s a lot of walking involved, so comfortable shoes are essential.

Can we climb Chichen Itza?

Simply put—no.

This is one of the most common questions visitors have about Chichen Itza. The stunning El Castillo, the most iconic and photogenic pyramid within the archaeological site, can no longer be climbed. For over a decade now, climbing the pyramid has been restricted. This decision is part of a larger effort to preserve the monument and honor the sacred significance it holds for the Mayan people. While it might be disappointing for those who crave the adventure of climbing an ancient pyramid, it’s important to respect the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

That said, there are still opportunities to climb pyramids in the region! For those eager to have that experience, I recommend visiting Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula. This pyramid, located in Cobá, can still be climbed.

In fact, I included it as part of my day trip to Tulum and Cobá, which was an incredible way to get that sense of adventure and awe. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the jungle from the top!

Do:

• Respect the Cultural Significance: Chichen Itza is a sacred place for the Mayan people, so treat the structures with reverence and follow the rules.
• Take Pictures (But Respect the Site): Photos are encouraged, but drones are not allowed without a permit. Make sure to follow any guidelines for photography.
• Enjoy the Entire Site: While El Castillo is the star, don’t forget to explore other fascinating areas like the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Sacred Cenote.

Don’t:

• Don’t Climb the Ruins: As tempting as it may be, climbing the structures is prohibited to protect the site.
• Don’t Touch the Monuments: This is important to preserve the integrity of the stone carvings and structures.
• Avoid Littering: Always dispose of trash properly and help keep the site clean for others and for future generations.

Cenote Ik Kil

The last spot that we visited was a beautiful open-air Cenote nearby. Cenote is a natural freshwater sinkhole, and there is more than one of them in the area. The cenote is the only source of fresh water for the Mayans and they considered Cenotes to be sacred portals to the underworld.

As I mentioned the sacred cenote in Chichen Itza is off-limits, but visitors could simply strip off and swim in the water to cool off here.

If you want to swim in the cenote, you would probably need to prepare swimwear or a towel or a change of clothes. There’s a changing room at the entrance, with a shower to rinse off the dirt before walking down the stairs in the cave to the water.

In case you really didn’t have what you needed, towel and locker rentals were available – it’s a unique experience to swim there as the scenery in the hole is of course unique. Even if you don’t swim, you can take a walk down the stairs and you can still get to see the cenote through the holes.