If you’re planning a vacation to Cancun or Rivera Maya, Chichén Itzá should be at the top of your list of places to visit! As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this UNESCO World Heritage Site draws thousands of international visitors each year. The historic archeological site has become one of Mexico’s most iconic landmarks and provides admirers with a glimpse into ancient Mayan civilization.
About Chichén Itzá
Chichén Itzá was a Mayan city built between the 9th and 12th centuries. The trading hub grew to prominence due to its location and access to resources. It now features several restored sights for visitors to see, including:
- El Castillo pyramid
- The Temple of Warriors
- The Great Ball Court
- The Sacred Cenote
Where is Chichén Itzá?
Chichén Itzá is located 125 miles west of Cancun, or around a 2.5-3 hour drive. It can be easily done as a day trip if you’re staying in Cancun, or you can stay at a nearby hotel to have more time in the area.
General Information
Chichén Itzá is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last entrance at 4 p.m.
The easiest way to experience it is on an excursion. You can go with a group or set up a private excursion as well.
Tips for Visiting
1. Avoid Mid-day
If you can, it’s best to visit Chichén Itzá as soon as it opens or right before it closes. This gives you time to enjoy the site before tour buses arrive and keeps you out of the sun during the hottest part of the day!
2. Don’t Go on a Sunday
Locals have free access to Chichén Itzá on Sundays, so Chichén Itzá tends to be more crowded on this day compared to the rest of the week.
3. Bring Pesos
In order to avoid any issues with cards or ATMs, it’s best to bring enough cash with you for the day, especially if you want to buy souvenirs.
4. Pack good shoes, water, sunblock, and a hat
Chichén Itzá does not have a lot of shade, and you’ll need to walk several minutes between each site’s features. Make sure that you have plenty of water, comfortable shoes, and protection from the sun.
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