Chichén Itzá

Where it is & how to get there

• From Cancún/Mérida: About 2.5 hours from Cancún or 1.5 hours from Mérida.
• Tickets: Two fees (federal and state) are charged at the entrance.
• Climbing: Climbing El Castillo is not allowed.

The story of Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá was one of the largest Maya cities, flourishing from around 600 to 1200 AD. Its pyramid, El Castillo (the Temple of Kukulcán), was built as a calendar: its four stairways and platform total 365 steps.

At the spring and autumn equinoxes, shadows form the shape of a serpent sliding down the stairs. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• Bring water, a hat and sunscreen. Shade is rare.
• Stay nearby the night before and arrive at opening.
• Clap in front of El Castillo to hear the echo like a bird call.

What's around Chichén Itzá

• Ik Kil CenoteSwim stop nearby.
• ValladolidColonial town 45 minutes away.
• Great Ball CourtLargest in Mesoamerica.
• Sacred CenoteInside the site.

Questions travellers ask