What would a trip to Yucatan be without a day trip to Chichen Itza, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site? This archaeological site, built sometime before the 6th century AD, is definitely worth a visit.
Personally, after having visited quite a few Aztec and Mayan ruins in Mexico, I prefer other sites such as Palenque and Coba because they are quieter, but the ever-present crowds at Chichen Itza don’t make this site less impressive.
From wherever you’re staying in the Yucatan peninsula, the Chichen Itza ruins are easy to get to, and you should set aside half a day to visit the pyramids.
Getting to Chichen Itza is pretty easy, no matter your budget or where you’re coming from. This super comprehensive guide will give you instructions for visiting Chichen Itza from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Valladolid.
You can follow the tips below to get to Chichen Itza via public transport, with a rental car, or by booking a tour in advance.
Table of Contents
A Brief History of Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins
Now I want to tell you a little bit about Chichen Itza (nothing too long, don’t worry!) so you know what you’re going to see! Chichen Itza is an ancient Mayan city built in the middle of the jungle in the Yucatan Peninsula.
While it’s known today as a major tourist attraction in Mexico, it used to be the home to a thriving civilization during the pre-Columbian era and there are many historic accounts about how and when the Chichen Itza was built.
When was Chichen Itza built?
Most of the historical accounts point to the early 400 AD, but there’s also evidence that shows that the ancient structures were constructed a few years later (some citing the middle of the 5th century).
Why was Chichen Itza built?
While the date of its construction remains a debate, one thing is undeniable– the structures served as the center of political and economic power, and as the heart of the Mayan culture.
This is not a small place, the entire archaeological site spans 3.2 square kilometers, which means that more sites could be unearthed.
In fact, archaeologists have continued their study and research on the site in order to further understand how the ancient Mayans lived and what led to the decline of such a powerful civilization.
Curious to know more? Here are some fun facts about Chichen Itza that I’m pretty sure you didn’t know!
What to Visit at Chichén Itzá, Mexico
When you visit Chichen Itza, you should explore the following famous constructions on the site to really take advantage of your trip.
El Castillo Pyramid (Temple of the Kukulkan)
The El Castillo is the most important structure in Chichen Itza archaeological site, and what people refer to when they talk about the Chichen Itza pyramid.
It’s in fact a pyramid structure that still stands today after all this time, mainly because of the restoration efforts they made at the site to preserve the ancient monuments.
El Castillo of Chichen Itza is also known as the Temple of the Kukulkan, and literally dominates the site.
This structure consists of square terraces that have stairways on all four sides of the pyramid and there are also sculptures of plumed serpents that run down the balustrade of this pyramid, which is really something you should look at closely.
And if you manage to visit at the right time, the Chichen Itza snake comes down! There is a really amazing phenomenon that happens only during the spring and autumn equinoxes where the sun strikes at the balustrade in the late afternoon, particularly the northwest corner of the pyramid.
As the light of the sun hits the balustrade, it creates the illusion of the serpent slithering down the pyramid.
PHOTO TIP: You want to know how I managed to take pictures of the pyramid of Chichen Itza with no one in the background? I came here early!
I spent the previous night in Valladolid, was at the entrance by opening time and rushed directly to El Castillo before visiting any other structure. I must say though that for the first full hour the complex was pretty quiet…after that, forget it!
Great Ball Court at Chichen Itza
The Great Ball Court, also known as the Grand Ball Court, is another striking structure in the Chichen Itza Mayan city. This is the largest rectangular arena (about 2.2 times the size of an American football field!) that was used by the ancient Mayans.
It’s quite unclear, however, with what purpose they actually used it, researchers don’t know if it was used as a playing field or as a ceremonial site. Aside from the elaborate design that decorates the structure of the arena, this place is also known for its astounding acoustics.
Chichen Itza Temple of the Warriors
This Chichen Itza temple is a complex with a large stepped pyramid that features numerous columns carved to look like warriors. This one is built on a large scale – it’s composed of 200 columns on both the south and west sides.
Unfortunately, climbing this pyramid is no longer allowed.
The statue of the Chac Mool, which is considered a messenger of the Gods by the ancient Mayans, is located at the top of this pyramid. The Temple of the Warriors also features the same serpent design that you can see in El Castillo.
Cenote Sagrado (Chichen Itza Cenote)
Another must-see site when you visit Chichen Itza is the Cenote Sagrado, or Sacred Cenote (or again Cenote Xtoloc in Mayan). This is a large cenote at the northern end of the archaeological site, valued for its archaeological and cultural significance.
It’s not spectacular like many of the cenotes in Mexico, and it’s forbidden to swim in the Chichen Itza cenote, but it’s an important cenote as it was the site of many ceremonial practices that the Mayans performed.
In fact, researchers believe that human sacrifice was performed at the cenote at Chichen Itza. The archaeologists in fact unearthed tons of human remains during their explorations of the cenote and other structures within the site.
Guided Tour vs Visiting Chichen Itza On Your Own
I’m not the biggest fan of organized tours, but this is one case where I do recommend going with a guided tour if it’s your first time visiting Chichen Itza. A guide will be able to explain to you the history of the pyramids and tell you the stories that you won’t find on your Lonely Planet.
When you book a tour to get to Chichen Itza, it will usually include transportation, a skip-the-line ticket, food, and maybe a visit to a cenote or other attractions but, as you may imagine, it will cost more for the convenience.
I would recommend a Chichen Itza self-guided tour to those visitors who are either on a budget, or are really not into history and are ok with just knowing the information you can find on the panels or online.
I visited Chichen Itza in Mexico twice, the first time with a tour and the second one on my own, and I felt it was the right choice.
On my first visit, I was able to learn about the site from an experienced guide, while on the second visit I took my time to wander around and take approximately a thousand or a million Instagram pictures. Both experiences were great in their own way, so it really depends on what you’re looking for!
▶️ If you’ve decided to go on your own, I still recommend getting the Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket in advance to avoid waiting in line (sometimes for hours!). ➥ BOOK YOUR TICKET
Best Chichen Itza Tours
You’ll find thousands of tours to Chichen Itza online, and choosing the best one can be a bit overwhelming. I’ve done the research for you, and these are the tours that offer the best value for your bucks.
▶️ The top-rated Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Tour is the best excursion to delve into Chichen Itza’s history, archaeology and fascinating stories. You’ll explore it with a guide before cooling off in a nearby cenote, and having a buffet lunch in the picturesque Valladolid. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ If you prefer a quieter experience without the masses, check out the Chichen Itza Early Access Tour, No Crowds, No Tourist Traps. It’s a full-day excursion that starts early in the morning with a comprehensive tour around Chichen Itza. After the visit, swim in a cenote, relish a buffet lunch, and enjoy a tequila tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ And finally, this is the tour for you if you believe that two are better than one: Chichen Itza, Ik Kil, and Coba Tour with Lunch. You’ll visit the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza with a guide, and then head to Coba, another spectacular archaeological site. Cool off with a cenote swim, and refuel with lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
How to Get to Chichen Itza On Your Own
How To Get From Cancun To Chichen Itza
➥ I’ve written a whole post about how to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza, but here below you can find some quick info.
➤ If you are based in Cancun, you can take the ADO bus, which departs daily every hour starting at 5 AM. The trip takes 3 hours, and tickets cost 250 MXN currently. You can buy your ticket at the terminal.
On your way back from Chichen Itza to Cancun, you’ll need to take the same bus that departs at 5 PM.
➤ It’s a good alternative to drive to the Mayan ruins. The roads are pretty good and people respect the rules, plus it will give you the freedom to explore other attractions nearby. You’ll take the 180D Highway, and reach Chichen Itza in 2 hours and 20 minutes.
It’s a toll road, currently costing 600 MXN per way (around $30) but it will save you a ton of time. Keep in mind that credit cards or US dollars are not accepted, so make sure you bring cash in pesos. There are no ATMs between Cancun and the toll road.
I recommend booking your rental car online in advance to avoid scams. I usually use Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals when booking a car. ➥ COMPARE PRICES HERE
How To Get to Chichen Itza From Playa del Carmen / Riviera Maya
I’ve written a whole post about how to get from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza, but here below you can find some quick info.
➤ There is one bus a day direct from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza. It departs a few minutes after 8 AM and the ticket costs 428 MXN (approximately 21 USD) at the time of writing. The bus departs from the ADO station on 5th Avenue and the bus ride takes about 3 hours 40 minutes.
On the way back, the bus leaves from Chichen Itza at 4.00 PM. Make sure not to miss it as it’s the only one!
➤ It’s possible to drive from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza, but I do suggest booking a rental car in advance online to avoid any scams. I usually use Discover Cars to compare prices. ➥ COMPARE PRICES HERE
You can take the 305 Highway that connects Playa del Carmen to 180 Highway, and be there in slightly over 2 hours. Both are toll roads, though, so you’ll need to take Mexican pesos with you.
The free alternative, though slower by about 40 minutes, is taking the 307 to Tulum and then heading to Valladolid.
How To Get from Tulum to Chichen Itza
I’ve written a whole post about how to get from Tulum to Chichen Itza, but here below you can find some quick info.
➤ Take the ADO bus directly from Tulum to Chichen Itza. At the time of writing, there’s only one bus a day, at 9.20 AM. The bus ride takes about 2 hours 35 minutes and the ticket costs between 194 and 294 MXN (approximately 9 and 14 USD), depending on the date.
On the way back, there is one daily bus from Chichen Itza to Tulum, at 4.30 PM.
➤ Would you rather drive? Take the QROO 109 road towards Coba. When you see the sign for Chemax, turn left to stay on 180 Highway. Remember to book your rental car in advance.
How To Get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza
Valladolid City is very close to Chichen Itza, and you can take a colectivo (shared van) from outside the ADO bus station. You can take it as early as 7 AM and be at the ruins in an hour, right for opening time.
▶️ I recommend buying the Chichen Itza Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket to avoid wasting time at the entrance. It enables you to access the site through a separate entry, bypassing the queues. ➥ BOOK YOUR TICKET
If you want to visit the site with a guide, you can find official guides at the entrance.
How to Get from Merida to Chichen Itza
➤ If you’re based in Merida, taking the ADO bus is a good option if you’re willing to wake up early. There’s a daily bus leaving at 7.15 AM, which arrives at Chichen Itza at 8.20 AM, so right at opening time. The next bus departs at 12 PM, so it’s still an option if you don’t mind visiting in the afternoon.
At the time of writing, the ticket costs 156 MXN, although it may vary depending on the promotions available.
On the way back, you can take the bus that leaves from Chichen Itza at 5.30 PM, which gives you enough time to check out Chichen Itza and Ik Kil Cenote.
➤ Driving? The road from Merida to Chichen Itza is very straightforward. Take the 180E towards Cancun, and in Kantunil turn left to continue on the 180D. Take exit number 79 and follow the signs towards Chichen Itza. It will take you short of 1.5 hours on a partially toll road, so don’t forget pesos!
It won’t be a problem finding a rental car in Merida. In fact, I personally rented a car in Merida twice when I was living there for a month or so. If you prefer to rent a car online, here you can compare prices. ➥ COMPARE PRICES HERE
Practical info for Visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico
If you are planning to visit Chichen Itza, make sure you plan your trip ahead of time to make the best out of your day trip.
Where is Chichen Itza located?
The Chichen Itza ruins are located in the Eastern part of Yucatan state in Mexico, approximately 25 miles from Chichen Itza. The location of Chichen Itza in Yucatan Peninsula makes it easy to visit as a day trip. It’s indeed 2 hours 20 minutes from Cancun, 2 hours 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen, and 2 hours from Tulum.
What are the Chichen Itza opening hours?
Chichen Itza is open daily from 8 AM to 4:30 PM.
How much is the Chichen Itza entrance fee?
Currently, the Chichen Itza entry fee is 614 Mexican Pesos per person (only applies to foreign tourists). The admission fee includes two tickets, one for the Federal tax, and one for the State tax. If you pay by credit card, you’ll have to make two separate payments.
Can I buy Chichen Itza tickets online?
I heard you can buy the simple Chichen Itza tickets online, but I honestly wasn’t able to find this option when I looked for it. At this time, though, you can buy the skip-the-line tickets here.
What about parking at Chichen Itza?
If you plan to rent a car and drive to Chichen Itza, you can find plenty of parking spots on the site and you should bear in mind that you’ll have to pay around 80 Pesos parking fee so you can be assigned a parking slot.
Can I find Chichen Itza souvenirs here?
Trust me, you’ll have no problem finding souvenirs at Chichen Itza. On your way to Cenote Sagrado you’ll find tens of souvenir stands. Make sure to bargain!
Chichen Itza Light and Sound Show
Chichen Itza Light and Sound Show is one of the most special ways to visit Chichen Itza if you’re up for visiting at night. When the sun sets, you’ll have the opportunity to see the magnificent Mayan structures transform with dramatic lighting and 3D mapping projection.
This light and sound show retells the history of the Mayans in a unique fashion, in which impressive light and image mapping display are complemented by rhythmic sounds.
▶️ If you’re interested in witnessing the show for yourself, you can book this Once life Experience of Chichen Itza Night Show, Cenote and Valladolid included. It departs from multiple locations in Riviera Maya, and takes you to Valladolid and a nearby cenote, as well as Chichen Itza. Indulge in a buffet lunch and tequila tasting, and witness the mesmerizing light show at the ruins. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Best Time to Visit Chichen Itza
There are plenty of tours that operate within the Chichen Itza archaeological site. These tours come in masses so when they arrive, expect a huge flock of tourists on the site.
To avoid the crowd, I recommend you to visit right after the site opens. This will give you a chance to explore the area without the huge crowds, as the group tours haven’t arrived yet.
Another option is to go late in the afternoon, right before the site closes (around 3 PM). The tours usually arrive around midday so you can go there after they have left.
It’s also a no-no to visit on Saturdays and Sundays as the weekends are typically when there is a higher amount of visitors on the site, but during the weekend you can find tons of Mexican tourists as well. Sundays experience the peak of tourist visits.
The best day to visit Chichen Itza is either Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday in my opinion.
What to Pack for Chichen Itza
To maximize your enjoyment of Chichen Itza and the archaeological ruins on the site, it’s important to pack a few essential items with you on the tour.
- Comfortable clothes: remember to wear comfortable clothes. If you visit during the summer, expect the weather in Chichen Itza to be hot and humid. Make sure you wear something that is lightweight, breezy, and comfortable. This will help keep you cool as you explore the ruins right under the sun.
- Good quality walking shoes: make sure to bring your trusted pair and don’t even attempt to break in your shoes.
- Sunscreen: again, do not underestimate the heat in Mexico so make sure you are protected from the intense heat of the sun.
- Hat and sunglasses: it’s also a good idea to pack other types of sun protection such as a hat and sunglasses. This will make it easier for you to explore the ruins without worrying about the heat. Plus, a hat always makes for great Instagram pictures!
- Drinking water: when it’s so hot, it’s very important to stay hydrated at all times. You can’t drink tap water in Mexico, so either bring bottled water or go sustainable and buy a LifeStraw or similar product. This is a straw that filters the water while you drink, so you can save money and plastic by filtering tap water.
- Bug spray or insect repellent. A bug spray or insect repellent is a must too. Remember: the ruins are built in the middle of the jungle so make sure you are protected from all kinds of bugs and insects that are present in this type of environment.
Attractions Near Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is located in the state of Yucatan, which is home to beautiful cenotes and other fascinating attractions I recommend visiting if you have time.
- Valladolid is a well-preserved colonial city that features a lovely historic center, beautiful architecture, and mouthwatering local cuisine. It’s the closest city to Chichen Itza, so you can’t miss it!
- Cenote Ik Kil is arguably the most striking cenote. It’s a large, open sinkhole surrounded by vines and roots, and it’s super picturesque. It’s great for snorkeling and swimming.
- Cenote Zaci is another incredible sinkhole, half-open and half-cave. It’s pretty deep and offers great jumping platforms to dive into the water!
- Cenote Suytun is the most Instagrammable, with a beautiful man-made platform in the center, surrounded by a stalactite-filled cave.
- Las Coloradas is part of the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, and it’s renowned for its pink lakes, man-made bodies of water that boast a striking pink color. The protected area is home to abundant wildlife and birds.
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