Once the sparkling jewel of Mayan civilization, Chichén Itzá today stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craft of an ancient people. Stepped pyramids, stone structures, temples and columned arcades are features of this once-thriving and sophisticated urban center dating back to A.D. 750. Explore the Temple of Kukulkan (El Castillo) and discover how astronomy influenced the Mayan culture.
Visit the largest known ball court in the Americas. A World Heritage site, Chichén Itzá offers an amazing glimpse into an ancient, pre-Hispanic civilization. Something not to be missed.
Chichen Itza has recently become recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and it's one of the top attractions for tourists visiting Cancun and Riviera Maya. We agree that this archeological site is a must-see for every visitor as it really helps give an understanding of our ancestors and the mysterious Maya civilization. Chichen Itza dates back as early as 550 AD and is home to the iconic El Castillo Pyramid (also known as the Temple of Kukulcan). On the grounds, you'll find two cenotes and numerous temples spread across the 4 square miles of the archeological site with intricate stone carvings. We recommend a full or half-day visit to Chichen Itza to better understand the heritage and legacy of our Maya ancestors in this region.
Chichén Itzá has been designated one of the seven wonders of the world and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No visit to the Yucatan peninsula is complete without a day spent exploring the ancient pyramids, temples and stone structures of this once-bustling urban center of the Mayan civilization. Getting to Chichén Itzá from Playa del Carmen is easy, as there are numerous shuttle services and tour operators that offer comfortable motor coach transportation to and from the site. The magic of Chichén Itzá is a 2.5 hour drive from Playa del Carmen.
The mighty El Castillo, the massive stepped pyramid of the Chichén Itzá ruins, boasts an incredible total of 365 steps to the top. It's no accident that Mayan builders incorporated four sides, with 91 steps each, plus a final step at the top to exactly replicate the number of days in a calendar year. Their interest in astronomy is legendary, and the endless views of surrounding jungles from the top are as wonderous as the pyramid itself. Unfortunately, due to erosion and in the interest of protecting this World Heritage Site, tourists are no longer permitted to climb the ruins at Chichén Itzá.
