Chichen Itza, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

4.5 (26.0k reviews) Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Price Range: from $63.00 Ranking #1 in Yucatan Peninsula Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Go early to beat the crowds (and heat!)

Chichén Itzá is one of Mexico’s most important cultural landmarks, famous for its treasure trove of pre-Columbian architecture and artifacts. Dating back nearly 1,500 years, the archaeological city was built with the iconic pyramid of Kukulcán at its center, the greatest symbol of Mayan society and an important astronomical and mathematical achievement. Book a day tour from the cities of Cancun or Mérida to be guided through the site while learning about the magnificence of Mayan culture. Alternatively, you can catch an early morning colectivo (minibus) from the town of Valladolid to self-tour and beat the heat and for fewer crowds. – Tripadvisor
Yucatan Peninsula review images

Address

, Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.

Mobile

+52 998 240 0770

Website

http://www.chichenitza.com/

Working hours

Monday : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Current local date and time now

Saturday, May 04, 2024, 21:39

Price range

from $63.00

User Ratings

4.5 based on (26.0k reviews)

Excellent

69%

Good

22%

Satisfactory

Poor

Terrible

Reviews

4Foxtrotx 5:00 PM Mar 7, 2021
We beat the heat and crowds
We went there on our own via rental car and got there just after the grounds opened at 8am mid week. Parking was 80 pesos. The lot was relatively empty and we were able to park in the shade of some trees. There were no entry lines; there were few tourists inside that early so it was easy to get photos without anyone else in them. It was also early enough that the morning was still overcast the heat had not set in, so the temperature was great for walking around outside. Entry was recently raised from around $12 USD to almost $27 USD (which I think is way too high; it should go back down to $12). The structures are beautiful and I’m glad we went in general, but the amount of vendors inside the architectural zone is out of hand. It almost feels like you’re at a flea market vs being on a cultural site. The amount of vendors really takes away from the experience of walking through nature and immersing yourself in the awe of the ruins. I think it would be more respectful to the history of this place if the vendors were kept outside the grounds or only at the entrance. We enjoyed our time here; but I know I would not have found it as enjoyable if we showed up any later in the day when it is hotter, there are more tourists, and more vendors set up. I recommend getting there around 8am or be prepared for the heat and crowds.
4Tosha Holmes 5:00 PM Aug 30, 2021
Amazing history even with no guide
Chichen Itza was an incredible experience for those who love history and culture. The monuments are well-preserved and beautiful and it provides a great sense of the Mayan culture. I would strongly recommend reading up about the site and the history before you go so that you can appreciate what you see. On site there are many guides offering their services but unless you really like listening to tour guides, skip the guide, and download an app with a self-guided tour. We used the app "Chichen Itza" and for $7 had plenty of information without an overload. The day involved lots of walking so prepare for the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks. There is a restaurant and bathrooms at the entrance but once you get going you will not want to walk all the way back if you need something. The bathrooms are not great but will meet your needs and are reasonably clean. We spent about 4 hours there with plenty of time for sitting and resting. The earlier in the day you go the better it is! We planned to eat at the nearby city of Vallolidad which gave more options than the restaurant at Chichen Itza.