Chichén Itzá - Discovering Mexico

Travelling to Chichén Itzá

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Chichén Itzá, a pretty good destination in Mexico (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Chichén Itzá and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Chichén Itzá, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Mexico, here's everything to know about Chichén Itzá for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It was one of the largest and most important Mayan cities, serving as a cultural, religious and commercial center between 750 and 1200 CE. Chichén Itzá is most famous for its iconic pyramid, the Temple of Kukulcan (also known as El Castillo), which stands over 78 feet tall. The site also features a large ballcourt, the Temple of the Warriors, the observatory, and several other temples and structures. Chichén Itzá was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988 and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico.

What to visit in Chichén Itzá

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions of Chichén Itzá with a bit of information about each: 1. El Castillo (The Pyramid of Kukulcan): This is the most famous and iconic structure at the Chichén Itzá ruins. It stands at approximately 98 feet tall and was constructed in honor of the feathered serpent god Kukulcan. Visitors can climb the steps to the top for a stunning view of the entire site.
2. The Temple of Warriors: This temple is located on a large plaza that was likely used for ceremonial purposes. The temple features extensive carvings and sculptures honoring various gods and warriors.
3. The Ball Court: This is the largest ball court in Mesoamerica and is an impressive feat of ancient engineering. The game played here was likely a ritualistic event with significant spiritual and political meaning.
4. The Observatory: This structure is a fascinating example of the advanced astronomical knowledge of the Maya. The building is designed to align with the movements of the stars, and its roof is equipped with various observation points and reference lines.
5. The Sacred Cenote: This is a natural sinkhole that was likely used for ritual sacrifices by the ancient Maya. While swimming is not permitted, visitors can peer down into the eerie blue-green waters and imagine the ceremonies that once took place there.
6. The Nunnery: This complex of buildings likely served as living quarters for priests and other high-ranking members of society. Its intricate carvings and stonework are among the most impressive at the site.
7. The Group of a Thousand Columns: This plaza is so named for the many stone columns that once stood here. Today only a fraction remain, but their scale and design provide a glimpse into the power and wealth of the ancient Maya.
Overall, a visit to Chichén Itzá is a fascinating glimpse into a vibrant and complex ancient civilization.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Mexico, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Chichén Itzá.

When to go on holiday to Chichén Itzá

The best time to visit Chichén Itzá is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This is when the weather is sunny and pleasant, with warm temperatures ranging between 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season and the site can get crowded. If you prefer fewer crowds, you can consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to July or September to October when the weather is still good, but there are fewer visitors. Just be aware that these months are in the rainy season, so be prepared for occasional rain showers.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is located in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Here's how to get there: 1. By Car: Chichén Itzá is about a 2.5-hour drive from Cancun. You can rent a car at the airport and drive yourself there. The road is easy to navigate and there are signs that will direct you.
2. By Bus: There are frequent bus services from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Merida to Chichén Itzá. The buses are comfortable and air-conditioned. ADO is the most popular bus company for this route.
3. By Private Tour: There are many private tour companies that offer guided tours to Chichén Itzá. This can be a great option if you want a more personalized experience.
4. By Group Tour: Group tours are a great way to visit Chichén Itzá if you are traveling alone or on a budget. These tours usually include transportation, a guide, and admission to the site.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Chichén Itzá, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is located in the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico, and is known for its unique and flavorful cuisine. Some of the typical foods of Chichén Itzá are: 1. Cochinita Pibil: A marinated pork dish cooked in banana leaves and spices like achiote, garlic, and sour orange juice. It is tender and juicy, with a slightly sweet and acidic taste.
2. Salbutes: A popular street food, salbutes are deep-fried tortillas topped with shredded chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, avocado, and a spicy salsa. They have a crispy texture and are very filling.
3. Panuchos: Similar to salbutes, panuchos are also deep-fried tortillas filled with refried black beans, shredded chicken, and toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and pickled red onions. They are served with a spicy red or green salsa.
4. Sopa de Lima: A refreshing lime-based soup made with chicken broth, shredded chicken, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and fried tortilla strips. It is flavorful and aromatic.
5. Papadzules: A typical dish of the Yucatan region, papadzules are tortillas filled with mashed hard-boiled eggs and covered with a pumpkin seed sauce. They are usually served with a tomato sauce and topped with diced onion.
6. Poc Chuc: This is a dish made with grilled marinated pork, served with pickled onions, avocado slices, and refried beans. It has a smoky and slightly sour flavor, and is often served with tortillas or rice.
7. Horchata: A refreshing drink made from rice, cinnamon, and sugar. It is served cold and is often enjoyed with the spicy dishes of the region.
All of these dishes offer a wonderful taste of the local flavors and culinary traditions of Chichén Itzá.
You can find general info about typical foods in Mexico here.

Is Chichén Itzá an expensive destination for tourists?

Chichén Itzá is considered a relatively expensive tourist destination in Mexico. The admission fee to the archaeological site is 481 Mexican pesos (around $24 USD) per person, which can add up if you are traveling with a group or family. Additionally, prices for food, accommodation, and tours in the surrounding area can be higher compared to other parts of Mexico. However, with careful planning, it is possible to find affordable options for transportation, lodging, and meals.

Where to find accomodation in Chichén Itzá

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Chichén Itzá are in the nearby towns of Piste and Valladolid as they offer a range of options for all budgets and have easy access to the archaeological site. Piste is the closest town to Chichén Itzá, just a 5-minute drive away, and offers a variety of hotels, motels, and budget hostels. Valladolid, which is about a 30-minute drive from Chichén Itzá, is a charming colonial town with more upscale boutique hotels, as well as budget-friendly options. Other popular nearby areas to find accommodation include the towns of Izamal and Merida.
You can check hotel prices at Chichén Itzá here:
Booking.com

Is Chichén Itzá a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Chichén Itzá is considered a safe place for tourists to visit. The site is well-maintained and heavily guarded, with many visitors coming every day without incident. However, like any tourist destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to use official tour guides and stay within designated areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Mexico here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Chichén Itzá.

What type of travelers will enjoy Chichén Itzá the most?

Chichén Itzá is a great destination for virtually any type of traveler, including couples, families, and young people. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Mexico, offering an incredible glimpse into ancient Mayan culture and history. The site is also stunningly beautiful, with iconic landmarks such as the Kukulkan Pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Great Ball Court. Families with children will particularly enjoy the educational value of Chichén Itzá, while couples and young people can revel in the romantic and adventurous atmosphere of the site. Overall, anyone who is interested in history, architecture, or cultural landmarks will enjoy Chichén Itzá, regardless of their age or group type.

How to get around Chichén Itzá

The best way to move around Chichén Itzá is by foot since the archeological site is relatively small and can be explored easily that way. However, if you prefer not to walk, there are also bicycles available to rent or guided tours in a small shuttle bus. Note that motor vehicles are not allowed within the archeological site.

What to see around Chichén Itzá

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Chichén Itzá: 1. Cenote Ik Kil: This is a stunning natural swimming hole with crystal clear water, located just a few minutes from Chichén Itzá. You can take a refreshing swim, go zip-lining or watch the divers jump from the platform on the top.
2. Valladolid: This charming colonial town is located about 30 minutes from Chichén Itzá. It offers colorful streets, a beautiful church, a central plaza, and some delicious regional food.
3. Ek Balam: This archaeological site is located about 30 km away from Chichén Itzá and is famous for its incredible stucco sculptures. It is also less crowded than other Mayan ruins in the area, which makes it a peaceful and enjoyable visit.
4. Coba: This ancient Mayan city is about an hour and a half away from Chichén Itzá. It has several impressive pyramid structures, including Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula.
5. Tulum: This is a beautiful coastal town located about 2 hours away from Chichén Itzá. It has a stunning beach and beachfront Mayan ruins, making it a picture-perfect day trip.
I hope that helps!
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