Chichén Itzá

Information

It is the most visited archaeological site in Yucatán and one of the busiest in Mexico. Hundreds of tourists come en masse, usually after 10 a.m.

First of all, take into account that as Chichén Itzá belongs to the state of Yucatán, there may be a 1 hour difference in the clocks (the time may change) with respect to destinations in the state of Quintana Roo such as Cancún, Playa del Carmen or Tulum.

Upon arrival, there is a huge car park, where those who park their private vehicles must pay. Further on is the ticket office to pay the entrance ticket to the ruins. If you are going to use professional filming equipment, you will have to pay an additional fee. All along this entrance there are some shops to buy groceries and toilets. Remember that it is forbidden to bring food into the ruins area.

Once inside the ruins, it is a large area and there is a lot to explore. It is best to take at least half a day to see the ruins in their entirety. In addition, there are many stalls selling handicrafts along the paths.

Chichén Itzá was an important Mayan political and ceremonial centre, especially between the 10th and 12th centuries AD.

Undoubtedly the most imposing structure is the Temple of Kukulkan (El Castillo), a pyramid 24 metres high. There are also many other structures such as El Caracol (The Snail) o El Observatorio (The Observatory), the Platform of Venus, the Temple of the Jaguars, the Temple of the North, the Tomb of the High Priest, etc. If you follow a path of about 500 metres you will reach the Sacred Cenote (it is only for viewing, it is not for use), which was a site of Mayan rituals and pilgrimage.