Chichén Itzá – One of the New 7 Wonders of the World

Visit Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and experience its magic and history. Here, you'll find tips, ticket information, and how to make the most of your visit.

Gray Concrete Building Under Blue Sky

What is There to See?

When you choose to visit Chichén Itzá, you'll discover a range of impressive sights. Here are some of the most notable:

  • El Castillo (The Kukulkan Pyramid): This is the main attraction and a symbol of Chichén Itzá. The pyramid is known for its unique architecture, which reflects the movement of the sun during the spring and autumn equinoxes.
  • Templo de los Guerreros (Temple of the Warriors): A temple surrounded by columns that once depicted warriors. Here, you get an insight into the religious and military aspects of Maya culture.
  • El Caracol (The Observatory): This round tower was likely used as an astronomical observatory, where Maya priests studied the stars.
  • Cenote Sagrado: A sacred cenote where it is believed the Maya performed ceremonies and sacrificed objects – and sometimes even people – to appease their gods.

Exploring these sites makes your visit to Chichén Itzá an unforgettable experience that combines history, architecture, and mysticism.

An Honest View: Chichén Itzá Today

Since Chichén Itzá was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the number of tourists has increased significantly. Today, the area is lined with market stalls where vendors sell everything from souvenirs to handicrafts, often calling out "one dollar!" While these markets add life and color to the site, they can feel a bit overwhelming for those seeking a more secluded experience.
Still, Chichén Itzá does not lose its magic. The powerful feeling of standing in front of El Castillo is something no visitor should miss, even if the site is sometimes crowded with other tourists.

Tips for Making Your Visit to Chichén Itzá Perfect

To make the most of your visit to Chichén Itzá, it's a good idea to plan ahead. Here are some practical tips:

  • Bring Cash: Many stalls accept only cash, and it's easy to get tempted by all the unique souvenirs. Both dollars and Mexican pesos are accepted!
  • Arrive Early or Late: To avoid the biggest crowds, try to arrive as early as possible in the morning or closer to closing time.
  • Prepare for the Heat: The Yucatán Peninsula can get very hot, especially in the middle of the day. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water – Chichén Itzá is located in a hot, open landscape with little shade.
  • Explore the Evening Show "Kukulkan Nights": If you want to experience Chichén Itzá from a different perspective, you can stay for the evening show "Kukulkan Nights." This is a magical light and sound show where the Kukulkan pyramid is illuminated with colorful images and Mayan motifs. The show starts at 7:00 PM, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance from 3:00 PM.
  • Be Planed if You Want to See Other Cenotes: If you plan to combine your visit with a trip to one of the nearby cenotes, such as Cenote Ik Kil, be aware that they are close but require transportation.
  • Guided Tour or Not? A guide can provide a lot of interesting information and bring the ruins to life. If you're interested in details about Mayan culture, it's well worth it.

Where can I find tickets?

To plan your visit to Chichén Itzá and purchase tickets in advance, you can use the following link: https://www.chichenitza.com/