Chichen Itza

Mexico, North America

Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most iconic archaeological ruins of the Maya civilization. Known for its massive step pyramid, El Castillo, this ancient city showcases remarkable architecture, including the Temple of the Warriors and the Great Ball Court. Visitors are captivated by the stunning scientific precision and the equinox phenomenon when shadows form a serpent down the pyramid. The blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes Chichen Itza a must-see for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Cultural Site

Vibe

History

Airport

Mérida

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

7 Best Things to Do in Chichen Itza

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore El Castillo Pyramid

Climb the iconic pyramid and learn its history.

No booking required
2

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Great Ball Court

Discover the ancient sport played by Mayans.

No booking required
3

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Admire the Temple of the Warriors

Marvel at the impressive columns and sculptures.

No booking required
4

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Observatory (El Caracol)

See the ancient Mayan astronomical observatory.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Sacred Cenote

Explore the ancient sacrificial site and natural sinkhole.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Sound and Light Show

Experience Mayan history through an immersive night show.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the local artisan market

Purchase unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

4 (#41 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Mexican Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mole

VE

Rich sauce made with chiles and spices (National dish)

Tacos al Pastor

Tortillas filled with marinated pork

Chiles en Nogada

Stuffed peppers with meat and walnut sauce

Pozole

Hearty soup with hominy and meat

Tamales

V

Corn dough filled with various ingredients

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)