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Mexico to Close Its Famous Mayan Ruins After Tourists Violate Mask Policy

The famous Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza will close over the Easter holiday.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Tourists behaving badly on vacation in Mexico have driven officials to shut one of the country's most popular archaeological sites over the Easter holiday weekend.

According to the Associated Press , officials in Mexico plan to close Chichen Itza on the Yucatan Peninsula from April 1 through April 4 in hopes of curbing the spread of COVID-19.

"It is regrettable to see how undisciplined things have become," Lucio Hernández Gutiérrez, acting police chief in Quintana Roo — a state that's home to hot spots like Tulum, Cancun , and Cozumel — said, the AP reported. He pointed to tourists as the worst offenders, saying "It was truly frustrating to see hundreds of people walking around without face masks."

Chichen Itza was a large pre-Columbian city built by the Mayans. Nowadays, it's Mexico's second-most visited archaeological site, typically drawing around two million visitors a year. The UNESCO World Heritage site is among the more popular day trips for visitors to Cancun, one of the limited vacation destinations open to U.S. travelers right now.

Mexican officials closed the Chichen Itza site in early 2020 as the world was shutting down borders and major attractions to contain the coronavirus pandemic. Chichen Itza reopened with capacity restrictions, temperature checks, and face mask requirements in September.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a Travel + Leisure contributor who has visited 50 countries on six continents and 47 U.S. states. She loves historic plaques, wandering new streets and walking on beaches. Find her on Twitter and Instagram .

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 

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

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 

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

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

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  

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

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

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 

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 

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 

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 

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

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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

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 

Melissa Douglas

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Chichén Itzá, closed to the public this Saturday, September 1

The Ministry of Culture and the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), reported in a statement that next Saturday, September 2, 2023, the Archaeological Zone of Chichén Itzá, in Yucatán, will remain closed to the public due to a supervision tour of the works of the Program for the Improvement of Archaeological Zones.

The authorities invite the public to visit other archaeological sites in the state, such as Ek’ Balam, Uxmal and all those that make up the Puuc Route.

In the archaeological zones of the Puuc Route, Sayil is one of the most important due to its size. His art is among the five most outstanding in the Mayan area, with archaeological remains, representations of wavy snakes and the well-known mask of the god Chaac.

Another option to visit is X’Cambó, on the north coast of Yucatán. It is an area of ​​beaches and springs, as well as an archaeological area with the Temple of the Cross and a Temple of Sacrifices.

The opening of the archaeological space of Chichén Itzá is scheduled for September 3, it is announced that at that time a new path will be opened for access to the area known as Chichén Viejo.

TYT Newsroom

Yucatan Times

Alert for increase in dengue cases in yucatan, hurricane idalia slams the florida peninsula and heads to georgia, you may also like, under amlo, the number of missing people in chiapas has increased by 458%, is merida’s macay museum at risk of disappearing, woman finds huge boa in her backyard in tizimín, lufthansa bets on mexico; new flight will open from tulum, transnational company arrives in mérida to improve business connectivity, mérida seeks a place in the michelin guide.

Then there’s another PlayStation exclusive beta that lasts from September 10-13. But, don’t worry, as after that one we all get a chance to experience the newest Call of Duty title. Anyone that NYJacket pre-ordered the game gets to enjoy the Call of Duty: Vanguard multiplayer beta that lasts from September 16-20. Even if you haven’t pre-ordered, you can jump into the beta from September 18th. Just make sure you have a Battle.net account ready.

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• Jan 4, 2023

Locals close Chichen Itza in peaceful protest

As of january 2nd, 2023 the access to the popular archaeological site of chichen itza is blocked..

In case you are wondering if Chichen Itza is open in 2023, months after the pandemic and travel to Mexico is possible with no restrictions, the answer is no.

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On new years morning locals spread the word they would block the access to Chichen Itza, since their demands for a dialogue with the director of the site, Marco Antonio Santos Ramirez remain unheard for several years now.

In 2014 the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) swore in Marco Antonio Santos Ramírez as director of the Chichén Itzá Archaeological Zone, replacing Ricardo Nafate López.

Given the achievement obtained in the archaeological zone of Las entanas, in Zacatecas, the archaeologist became the director of Xochicalco was then appointed as the director of Chichén Itzá.

What means Chichen Itza?

Listen to our travel tips podcast with over 160 episodes.

In Mexico, the archaeological site that registered the most visits during 2022 was the Archaeological Zone of Chichen Itza, located in the state of Yucatan.

According to the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), this Friday, December 30, at 10:45 a.m., the 2.5 millionth visitor entered the site, making it the most visited archeological site this year. INAH is expected to present during the first half of 2023 a comprehensive project for the Chichén Itzá Archaeological Zone within the Archaeological Zone Improvement Program (Promeza), which would mean the largest economic investment at the federal level in an archaeological site. The project will include construction of a new museum and a Visitor's Center (CATVI).

CATVI, the new tourist attraction will be located by the sacred cenote, north of the main attraction "El Castillo", the restored step-pyramid & Maya temple which is the highlight of the Chichen Itza archaeological site.

Loca, artisans, merchants, independent workers and tourist guides blocked the archaeological site of Chichén Itzá since Tuesday morning to protest against the site's authorities, whom they accuse of preventing them from working there.

Among other demands, they request the resignation of Marco Antonio Santos Ramírez, who is in charge of this pre-Hispanic Maya site.

We've asked locals to provide more details to the subject in order to inform our guests and potential travelers of the Riviera Maya and Cancun area.

According to them, all the land for the future visitor center has already been allocated and there has never been any dialogue with the locals. It seems that the concessions were negotiated behind closed doors without the advisory board of the locals.

Coming from the Maya communities of Pisté, X-Calakoop and San Felipe, close to Chichén Itzá, the demonstrators claim that they are not being allowed to work in an orderly fashion.

Is Chichen Itza open?

Due to the peaceful manifestations by the inhabitants of the surrounding villages near the archaeological site of Chichen Itza, it is impossible to access the site, since the roads remain blocked.

As of this morning federal authorities are in the affected area to mediate and find a solution.

What is a great alternative to Chichen Itza?

Since the situation can change within the hour we keep offering our Private Chichen Itza Excursions and will substitute it until further notice with either Coba or the site of Ek Balam .

Should you book, or already have booked one of our Chichen Itza Expeditions and the access remains closed, we will keep the exact itinerary as the original and just will replace the archaeological site with the one of your choosing.

Feel free to reach out prior or after you made your reservation to give us the chance to answer any questions you might have. We highly recommend to use our website's chat (downright corner) to clarify any questions. Our team of dedicated experts will be happy to help!

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Why is Chichen Itza so popular?

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Chichen Itza was a major city in the Maya civilization and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors to the city will be impressed by the well-preserved ancient buildings, including the Temple of Kukulcan, a massive pyramid that stands as a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Maya people.

But Chichen Itza is more than just a collection of old ruins. It was also an important economic, political, and religious center in the Maya civilization, and a visit to the city offers a chance to learn about the history and culture of the Maya people.

In addition to its rich history and cultural significance, Chichen Itza is surrounded by the beautiful Yucatan Peninsula, which is home to a variety of other attractions and activities. Tourists can cool off in one of the region's many cenotes, relax on the sandy beaches, or spot some of the local wildlife.

No matter what your interests are, Chichen Itza has something to offer. So why wait? Start planning your trip to this special destination today and discover all that Mexico has to offer.

How to beat the crowds at Chichen Itza?

The only way to beat the crowds at Chichen Itza is to either get there before everyone else, or to get there after everyone else has left. Everyday coach loads of tourists arrive to explore the Mayan Ruins, with most of them arriving and leaving around the same time. Learn more tips provided by travel blogger Claire and her guest article: Tour Chichen Itza without the crowds

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To have some vacation in your everyday life and to stay in touch, just follow us on our Facebook page , and for more insider tips from frequent travelers and locals join our community " Riviera Maya Lovers ".

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

Aug 11, 2020 • 6 min read

©Ole Steffensen/500px

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

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

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

What is Chichén Itzá?  

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

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

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

Special features at Chichén Itzá

El castillo .

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

El Caracol 

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

Temple of the Warriors

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

The Ball Court

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

Sacred Cenote

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

What does its name mean?

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

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

Chichén Itzá’s connection to spirituality and astronomy

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

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

Planning your trip to Chichén Itzá

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

Best time to go

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

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

How to get there

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

Insider tips

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

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Visiting Chichén Itzá on Your Own in 2021: Top FAQs

If you’re traveling to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, a trip to Chichén Itzá is a must.

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the ancient Mayan city and UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect side or day trip from Playa del Carmen , Cancun, or Tulum.

Fortunately, visiting Chichén Itzá on your own without a guide or tour group is still possible in 2021. 

Take a look at these tips and answers to frequently asked questions in order to plan your visit to the iconic archeological ruins!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. By making a purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support and for helping me keep this blog up!

Chichén Itzá Basics

What structures can be found at chichén itzá.

• Temple of Kukulcán/ The Castle (El Castillo) Pyramid
• Great Ball Court (Gran Juego de Pelota)
• Skull Platform (El Tzompantli, Plataforma de los Cráneos)
• Platform of Eagles and Jaguars (Plataforma de Águilas y Jaguares)  
• Platform of Venus (Platform de Venus)
• Temple of the Tables (Templo de las Mesas)
• Temple of the Bearded Man (El Templo del Hombre Barbudo)
• Sacred Cenote (Cenote Sagrado)
• Temple of the Warriors (Templo de los Guerreros)
• Group of the Thousand Columns (Grupo de las Mil Columnas)
• Thompson’s Temple (Palace of Ahau Balam Kauil)
• Marketplace (El Mercado)
• Osario Pyramid (El Osario)
• Temple of Xtoloc
• Red House (Casa Colorada)
• The Nunnery (Las Monjas)
• The Snail Observatory Temple (El Caracol)
• Old Chichen (Chichén Viejo)
• Caves of Balankanche (Gruta de Balankanche)

FAQ About Visiting Chichén Itzá on Your Own

Here are some of the most common questions regarding visiting Chichén Itzá . As with all things— especially in the COVID era— accessibility, rules, and fees are always changing so be sure to verify details for yourself prior to your trip for the best experience possible.

Can you visit Chichén Itzá on your own?

Yes, it’s not required to book a private tour or guide. 

In fact, many travelers choose to rent a car and drive themselves to the various sightseeing locations around the Yucatan for a more flexible schedule.

Although hiring a local tour guide may be helpful if you’re looking for in-depth information about the history behind the site, it’s not necessary to explore the archeological grounds.

How much does it cost to go to Chichén Itzá?

As of March 2021, the Chichén Itzá general entrance fee is 533 MXN. 

Do note that the total fee is paid in two separate payments (federal and state) and also at different windows.

Can you still climb the pyramid at Chichén Itzá?

Unfortunately, access up the El Castillo Temple of Kukulkan was closed in 2006 after a woman fell to her death.

The pyramid steps are roped off and visitors are only allowed to view it from the outside.

How much time do you need at Chichén Itzá?

On average, 3 hours is usually enough time to see Chichén Itzá. 

Depending on your sightseeing style (i.e. if you just want to take a quick look around or if you want to learn the history of every feature), you might stay between 2-4 hours.

Can you swim in the cenote at Chichén Itzá?

No, you cannot enter Chichén Itzá’s Sacred Cenote ( Cenote Sagrado ).

You can, however, swim in Cenote Ik Kil, which is located just an eight minute drive from Chichén Itzá and a popular stop for those visiting the ancient Mayan city.

Is Chichén Itzá open during COVID?

Yes, you can still visit Chichén Itzá as long as you follow their COVID guidelines. This includes wearing a face mask inside the archeological zone and keeping six feet from others.

Sadly, tourists not adhering to face mask rules have caused officials to close the site temporarily such as during Holy Week (April 1-4).

There are also limitations in place restricting the number of visitors allowed inside the grounds at a time and a cap on how many people can be together in a tour group (10).

Certain structures and special access hours may also be limited or suspended.

It should go without saying that if you do choose to travel at this time, please be respectful of the local health regulations and be a responsible visitor.

• How to Get a COVID Antigen Test in Playa del Carmen from Farmacias del Ahorro
• FAQ: Mexico Health Declaration Form for Air Travel

Hours of Operation

Chichén Itzá is open daily between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with last access at 4 p.m. 

Keep in mind that some sites inside the grounds may close at 4 p.m.

Tips for Visiting Chichén Itzá Solo

Although you might be able to pay the entrance fee by card, in my experience in Mexico, I’ve found that it’s better to always have cash on hand as technical difficulties with card payment machines occur quite often.

There’s also no shortage of vendors at the site to purchase food, drinks, or souvenirs from, and having pesos is the easiest way to ensure that you can buy things quickly without worrying about getting ripped off from a bad conversion rate or withdrawing cash from a sketchy ATM.

If you want to avoid the busiest time of day, plan on visiting Chichén Itzá as soon as it opens.

By around 10 or 11 a.m., tour buses start to arrive and that’s when it begins to get crowded.

Visiting early in the morning also means you’ll be able to enjoy the sights while it’s not blazing hot out!

Check the weather forecast

While the weather is often unpredictable, checking the forecast can give you a better idea of how hot or cold it’ll be when you’re visiting so that you can dress appropriately for your visit.

I just assumed it would be extremely hot during my trip to Chichén Itzá as that had been the case at the Tulum and Coba Ruins , but to my surprise, it was so cool when I went to Chichén Itzá that I had to buy a poncho to stay warm!

Wear comfortable shoes

Chichén Itzá is very large and you’ll need to walk a lot between the structures.

Make sure you’re wearing a pair of comfy shoes that you don’t mind getting dusty.

Bring a hat and sunscreen

Chances are that the sun will be very strong and hot when you visit.

There’s little to no shade around and most of the grounds are exposed to direct sunlight, so be prepared with appropriate head coverings and protection.

Additional Mexico Guides

• Visiting the Coba Ruins in 2021: 6 Most FAQs
• 10 Tips for Visiting Isla Mujeres on a Budget [2021]
• The Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen Locals Love
• The Best 15 Day Trips from Playa del Carmen

Mexican Candy Taste Test Review + First Impressions

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Michelle is a freelance writer who has traveled to all seven continents and 60+ countries through various forms of employment. Over the last ten years, she’s worked as an ESL teacher in Japan, a youth counselor aboard cruise ships, and a hospitality manager in Antarctica.

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Chichen Itza

By: History.com Editors

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

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

• March 22, 2024

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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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. 

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.

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.  

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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.”

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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.

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] ”

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!

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

Comments are closed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visiting Chichen Itza: Booking tickets

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

• Which are the opening hours of Chichen Itza?

How long does it take to visit Chichén Itzá?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to see and do in Chichén Itzá

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This was a common practice among many Mesoamerican people!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It has a small ball court in the back.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to Chichen Itza?

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

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

Getting to Chichen Itza by bus

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

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

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

Getting to Chichén Itzá with a rental car

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Chichén Itzá + Cenote Ik Kil + lunch

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

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

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

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

Book the tour here:

• Early access to Chichén Itzá (with no crowds)

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

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

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

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

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

Book the early access tour here :

• Mayan tour: Chichén Itzá and Cobá

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

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

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

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

Book this tour for a small group here:

• Combo Maya Lands: Chichen Itza, Tulum and Coba

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

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

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

Sleeping in Chichén Itzá

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

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

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

Sleep in Valladolid

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

Sleep in Mérida

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

Practical information about Chichen Itzá

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

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

Which are the opening hours of Chichen Itza ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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• All our Guides about Mexico

My Free Range Family

Destinations , Mexico · Last Updated: March 14, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

🗺 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

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

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

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 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 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

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 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 .

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

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

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 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 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

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

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!

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!

September 12, 2023 at 9:51 pm

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

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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• Chichen Itza forum

Are there Ubers there at the airport or can someone recommend a good transfer or guide service ?

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Chichen Itza Hotels and Places to Stay