Two Taxes
You must pay two separate fees at the entrance (one for the state, one for the federal government); keep both receipts.
Description
Chichén Itzá is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and standing before the massive El Castillo pyramid is jaw-dropping. The Mayan architecture is precise, astronomical, and steeped in symbolism. Exploring temples, ball courts, and sacred cenotes reveals a complex civilization. It’s hot and crowded—but totally worth it. Ancient genius on full display.
Highlights
- Home to the famous El Castillo pyramid.
- Ancient Mayan city with astronomical precision.
- UNESCO site and one of the New Seven Wonders.
Location
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Acceso a zona hotelera, 97757 Tinum, Yucatán, Mexico
Know Before You Go
The "Clap"
Stand in front of the El Castillo pyramid and clap your hands; the echo mimics the sound of a Quetzal bird.
The Cenote
Cenote Sagrado is for viewing only; you cannot swim here. For swimming, go to Cenote Ik Kil (5 mins away).
Arrival:
Be at the gate at 8:00 AM sharp; by 10:30 AM, the "Cancun buses" arrive and the heat becomes significant.
Shadow Event
On the Spring and Autumn Equinoxes, the shadow of a serpent appears to crawl down the pyramid; it is incredibly crowded.
Example Itinerary
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07:30
Leave Cancún or Mérida by Bus
Board a comfortable ADO highway bus early in the morning for a ride across the Yucatán Peninsula. -
11:00
Swim in Cenote Ik Kil
Stop just a few minutes away from the ruins to cool off with a swim in a breathtaking, vine-draped underground sinkhole. -
13:30
Visit Chichen Itza
Take a guided walking tour through the legendary Maya archaeological site, marvelling at the iconic El Castillo step pyramid. -
18:00
Arrive Valladolid
Head to the nearby colonial town of Valladolid by nightfall to stay in a historic hacienda.
