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Chichén Itzá was one of the great cities of the Maya world, flourishing in the northern Yucatán in the centuries before the Spanish arrival. Its architecture blends Maya traditions with styles linked to central Mexico, and the site takes its name from a well of the Itzá people. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited archaeological zones in the country.
The stepped pyramid known as El Castillo, or the Temple of Kukulcán, dominates the main plaza, and around the equinoxes its staircase casts a shadow resembling a descending serpent. Nearby lies the Great Ballcourt, the largest known in Mesoamerica, with carved reliefs along its walls. The Temple of the Warriors is fronted by rows of columns, while a raised causeway leads to the Sacred Cenote, where offerings were once cast into the water. Farther south, the round tower of El Caracol is thought to have served for watching the sky, and the Nunnery shows ornate Puuc-style facades. Close by, visitors swim in Cenote Ik Kil or descend into the Caves of Balankanché.
Arriving at opening time avoids much of the heat and the tour-bus crowds. Staying in colonial Valladolid makes an early start easy, and an evening light and sound show offers another view of the site.
WiserMap travel guideChichén Itzá Mexico El Castillo and the Sacred CenotePlan a visit to Chichén Itzá: El Castillo, the Great Ballcourt, the Sacred Cenote, Ik Kil, nearby Valladolid, Yucatecan food, when to go and where to stay.Read the guide
The great stepped pyramid of Kukulcán, the symbol of Chichén Itzá, with 365 steps in total. At the spring and autumn equinoxes the afternoon sun creates a serpent of light along its northern stairway. Climbing is not allowed, so enjoy it from the plaza.
The largest ballcourt in Mesoamerica, about 168 m long, with high walls, stone rings and carved panels showing players and a sacrifice scene. The acoustics are remarkable, and a clap echoes many times. It is best visited early before the heat builds.
Large temple fronted by rows of carved columns showing warriors, with a Chac Mool figure at the top of the stairs. The Group of a Thousand Columns stretches beside it. Climbing is not permitted, but the carvings are clear from the paths around it.
Large natural sinkhole reached by an old raised causeway north of El Castillo. The Maya made offerings here, and divers have recovered gold, jade and human remains from its depths. It is a short, shaded walk and a striking contrast to the open plaza.
Round tower known as the Observatory, with a spiral staircase inside and windows thought to align with the movements of Venus. It is one of the most unusual buildings in the Maya world. It is in the southern part of the site, which is often quieter.
Las Monjas is a large palace complex in the older southern part of the site, decorated with masks of the rain god Chaac in the Puuc style. The Spanish named it after a convent. Take time to look at the detailed stone carvings on the facade.
Smaller pyramid also called the High Priest's Grave, with a vertical shaft leading to a natural cave where burials were found. It looks like a smaller version of El Castillo. It is on the path to the southern group and is often less crowded.
Long stone platform beside the Great Ballcourt whose walls are carved with rows of skulls, thought to have displayed the heads of sacrificed captives. The carvings are some of the most striking at the site. Look closely at the different rows of skull reliefs.
Deep open cenote a few kilometers from the ruins, with hanging vines and a staircase leading down to a swimming platform. Life jackets and lockers are available. It gets very busy at midday with tour buses, so come early or late.
Cave system just east of Chichén Itzá where Maya offerings, including incense burners and pottery, were left around a large stone formation that looks like a tree. Guided visits follow a narrow, humid passage. It is not suited for those uneasy in tight spaces.
Evening show at the archaeological zone that uses light projections and sound to tell the story of Chichén Itzá on the facades of the ancient buildings. Tickets are sold separately from day entry. Check the current schedule, as show dates and times change.
At the spring and autumn equinoxes in March and September, the late afternoon sun forms a shadow of a serpent descending the steps of El Castillo. Thousands of visitors come to watch. Arrive very early, bring sun protection and expect large crowds.
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