Chichén-Itzá

The Yucatan Peninsula is a vacationer's paradise, with soft sandy beaches, warm weather, and azure waters. It is also rich in Mayan history, such as the iconic Chichén-Itzá.

UNESCO has named the destination one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Mayans considered it a sacred city, believing the "sorcerers of the water," known as the Itza, created it. The structures showcase the ingenuity and astronomical knowledge of the Maya civilization. 

There are many ruins to explore, but the top attraction is El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulcán. The four-sided pyramid served as a temple and a calendar. The 365 steps to the top align with the sun's equinoxes, casting a serpent-like shadow down its steps. 

The Mayan's passion for athletics is evident at the Great Ball Court ruin. Here, you will marvel at the detailed architecture and the stadium's vastness. Nearby is the Temple of the Warriors. The large complex features rows of carved columns depicting warriors, offering yet another glimpse into the Maya way of life.  

On the 2.5-hour drive from Cancun to Chichén-Itzá, you'll pass through Valladolid, another UNESCO city worth exploring. It is rich with colonial-era architecture, boutiques, Mayan influences, and cenotes. It also has plenty of restaurants like IX CAT IK Tradicional Cocina Maya, adding to the allure of your road trip. 

Chichén-Itzá: Fun Facts & Cool Features 

The main attraction is El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulcán. Aside from the previously mentioned 365 steps, archeologists have discovered Xibalba (the entrance to hell), a Chac Mool statue, a crimson jaguar figure, two parallel rows of human bones, and a jade-studded jaguar throne. 

The best time to visit El Castillo is during the spring and autumn equinoxes. During this season, the sun casts a serpent-like shadow of Kukulkan down the staircase. Another popular time is at night for the Noches de Kukulkan. The light and sound show entertains with Mayan stories and the shadowy effect as the serpent, Kukulkan, slithers down the steps. 

Sports fans will be impressed with the Great Ball Court, the largest in ancient Mesoamerica. The structure is 554 feet long and 231 feet wide, showcasing the importance of games in Maya society. Unlike our sporting events, the Mayan game held religious and political significance. 

A fascinating fact about the Great Ball Court is its acoustics. A whisper can be heard from one end to the other, demonstrating the Mayans' advanced comprehension of sound engineering.

The Cenote Sagrado, or the Sacred Cenote, is a natural sinkhole filled with freshwater. It provided hydration and Mayans offered gold, jade, pottery, and human sacrifices to their gods.

If time permits, head toward the coast to visit more Mayan ruins and cenotes. The Cenotes Dos Ojos is a must. The "Two Eye" wells or sinkholes are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving since visibility is typically 200'.

Tulum is on the coast and features an abundance of Mayan ruins at the Tulum Archaeological Site. 

No matter how many ruins and cenotes you explore, your Cancun vacation deserves a day exploring Chichén-Itzá.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Cancun to Chichén-Itzá:

• Head southwest on Av. Tulum toward Coba Road. 
• Turn right onto Coba Road (Carretera Cancun-Tulum/MEX-307) and continue for about 9 miles.
• Take the ramp onto the Carretera Merida-Cancun/MEX-180D (toll road) heading west. 
• Follow MEX-180D for approximately 102 miles. 
• Take the exit toward the destination.
• Merge onto the road leading to the site. 
• Continue until you reach the parking area.
• Address: Tinum Municipality, Yucatan, Mexico.

Cost

Here are the costs associated with visiting Chichén-Itzá:

• Adults (13+): MXN 614
• Mexican Adults: MXN 272
• Kukulkan Nights (Friday/Saturday): MXN 708 
• Kukulkan Nights (Sunday): MXN 450 
• Yucatecan residents: MXN 90 
• Sundays are free for Mexican citizens, or foreigners with residence in Mexico - ID required

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.