Nestled deep in the heart of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula lies Chichen Itza, a sprawling complex of ancient Mayan ruins. This awe-inspiring site offers travelers a glimpse into the remarkable achievements of one of the world’s oldest and most sophisticated civilizations. With its incredible architecture, fascinating history, and stunning natural beauty, Chichen Itza is a bucket list destination. This is a must-see visit for any travelers interested in history, culture, or archaeology.
It was one of the largest Maya cities and an important cultural and economic center of the region. The ruins of Chichen Itza are some of the most impressive and well-preserved in the world. In fact I was stunned at how large this complex actually was. It is more than just a pyramid and a ball court, the complex includes: the Temple of Kukulkán, also known as El Castillo, the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, an entire living area, observatory, the Cenote Sagrado, and more.
How To Get To Chichen Itza From Isla Mujeres, Cancun, or Cozumel Without Taking a Tour
As much as I am all for socializing (not really), I wanted this experience to be special for me an my family. Plus, I wanted to do everything at my own pace. If you would like to do this in your own way, here is what you need to do:
Take the Ultramar ferry if you are on Isla Mujeres or Cozumel to Av. José López Portillo Calle 49, Puerto Juarez, Juárez, 77525 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico. Then take a taxi to the Ibis Hotel to use National Car Rental. If you are already in Cancun, then you can take a taxi to the Ibis Hotel without needing to use the ferry system.
This was a reliable car rental service that we used and had no issues with. You do need to be 25 or older and you will need a credit card (not debit and not cash). The drive to Chichen Itza is about 2.5 hours. It is very direct and there will be stops along the way for snacks, food, and gas. It is a pretty straight shot on the 180D route to Chichen Itza from Cancun so enjoy the ride! There is a toll along this road so be sure to have plenty of Pesos for emergencies, in case you get stuck, and the tolls.
History of Chichen Itza
The Mayas inhabited the Yucatán Peninsula for thousands of years before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. Chichen Itza emerged as a major Mayan city around the middle of 700 AD and flourished for centuries as a center of political, economic, and religious power.
The city was abandoned around 1200 AD for reasons not yet fully understood. At its peak, Chichen Itza was home to an estimated 50,000 people and covered an area of about six square kilometers. It is believed that the city served as a major pilgrimage site, attracting people from all over the Mayan world.
Chichen Itza means "At the mouth of the well of the Itza".
Architecture at the Complex
The most impressive structures at Chichen Itza are the Templo de Kukulkán (also known as El Castillo), the Great Ball Court, the Cenote Sagrado, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Caracol. In addition to the main structures, Chichen Itza is also home to a number of smaller temples, palaces, and other buildings. The city was once home to a large population, and it is estimated that there are still many unexcavated ruins waiting to be discovered.
El Castillo is a towering pyramid that is approximately 24 meters tall and has 365 steps leading to its summit. The pyramid is dedicated to the Mayan god Kukulcan, also known as Quetzalcoatl. Each side of the pyramid features a massive staircase flanked by carved serpent heads. These carvings were painted in bright colors, adding to the temple's majestic appearance. On the spring and autumn equinoxes, the setting sun creates the illusion of a serpent slithering down the pyramid's steps, a phenomenon that draws thousands of visitors each year.
The Great Ball Court is the largest ball court ever discovered in the Americas. Measuring over 168 meters long and 70 meters wide. The court was used for a ritual ball game with religious significance. The walls of the court are lined with carved stone panels depicting players in action, along with decapitated figures. It is truly a detail to behold and learning about the significance of this ball game and the symbolism is very interesting.
Significance of the Ball Court
The Mesoamerican ballgame was more than just a sport; it held significant cultural and religious importance. The sport itself is called Ollamaliztli. The Great Ball Court, or tlachtli, is another impressive structure at Chichen Itza. It is a 168-meter (551-foot) long and 70-meter (230-foot) wide playing field with two hoops, one on each side, set high up on the wall. The ōllamaloni, which is a rubber ball, was hit with the hips, elbows, or knees through a stone ring set into the walls. The game was played between two teams of seven players. The winning team was the one that scored the most points by getting the ball through the ring.
The Cenote Sagrado is a large natural well that was used by the Mayans for sacrificial offerings and religious ceremonies. The cenote is about 60 meters in diameter and 20 meters deep, with crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming. Just kidding, you can't and don't want to swim here. The waters are inaccessible and even if they were it is a very unwelcoming shade of green. There is also the smaller and overlooked Cenote Xtoloc.
The Temple of the Little Tables, Group of a Thousand Columns, and the Market is a whole area of stone structures. The columns are many and the expansive amount of stone used is phenomenal.
Caracol, means The Snail. This is an astronomical observatory and a wildly amazing structure. I wish this one was one that you could get closer to or even go inside.
There are literally so many things here and so many surprises that I did not know until I got there. As mentioned before just the sheer size of the complex is unfathomable. Something that really got my attention though, was the stone pathways. Things weren't just built, they were designed with purpose.
Bright Colors
Contrary to popular belief, the temples of Chichen Itza were not originally plain gray stone. Research has revealed that they were once painted in vibrant colors, adding to their grandeur. The most common colors used were red, blue, green, and yellow. The paint was made from natural pigments derived from minerals and plants.
Modern Architectural Discoveries
In recent years, archaeologists have made several important discoveries at Chichen Itza using advanced technology. Lidar scanning and ground-penetrating radar have revealed hidden structures and features previously unknown. Some of these new dig sites are visible not reachable when visiting.
One fascinating discovery is a vast network of underground chambers and tunnels, which shed light on the city's complex water management system. Additionally, archaeologists have uncovered evidence of ancient murals and sculptures, providing new insights into Mayan art and culture.
Nya b’a’n tu’n t-xi tewin chib’aj cye tuliy, ku’n ajo chib’aj b’e’x cy-elil× chuk-ix. - It is not good to hide good food from visitors because it will turn into worms. - Mayan Proverb
Beauty of the area
Chichen Itza is located in a stunning natural setting, surrounded by lush vegetation and rolling hills. The site is particularly captivating during the rainy season (from May to November) when the region comes alive with vibrant colors and abundant wildlife, including various bird species, monkeys, and reptiles. The area is also dotted with several other ancient Maya sites, including Ek Balam, Tulum, and Coba, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's rich cultural heritage.
Dark clouds can roll in on any day and create wondrous storms and what lightening, adding to the mystery and intrigue of this sacred place. Towards the end of our trip, dark clouds rolled in and we enjoyed the majesty of nature as we cruised back to the Cancun area.
Be sure to stop for food too! There are so many places to eat along the way. Literally all types from fancy to authentic. We stopped at Restaurante Chichen Itza in Piste and it was a delight. We even had a dance performed for us and we were the only ones there. It was extra special and very enjoyable.
Significance of Cenotes
Cenotes are natural sinkholes formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, exposing groundwater. They were of great importance to the Mayans, as they provided a vital source of fresh water in a region with limited surface water.
The Cenote Sagrado at Chichen Itza was particularly significant, as it was believed to be a gateway to the underworld and a place of communication with the gods. Mayans often performed rituals and sacrifices at cenotes, leaving behind offerings of jade, gold, and other precious objects.
Cenote Ik Kil - The Place of the Winds
It gets hot and after 2 hours in the car we were ready to jump out and take an amazing swim. This freshwater is cool and perfect. The changing rooms are spacious and nice, there are lockers for your belongs. Each guest is required to do a body rinse before getting in to keep the waters pure for everyone. It is suggested to rinse off any deodorant, male-up, perfumes, scents, etc., so as not to damage it.
Ik Kil means "The Place of the Winds" and is a magnificent experience. It was and still is considered sacred by the Maya. Bones and jewelry have been found here, marking it as a location for human sacrifices. These sacrifices were to the rain god Chaac. There are fish in the cenote and beautiful birds all around. You will not regret stopping here.
You can swim in Ik Kil Cenote
You do not need water shoes to swim in this cenote
The Ik Kil Cenote is about 48 meters deep and 60 meters in diameter
The cost to swim in the Ik Kil Cenote is 200 Pesos per person
Extra Tips for Visiting
Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. The ruins are an impressive testament to the power and sophistication of the Mayan civilization. It is a must-see for anyone interested in history, culture, or archeology. It is also a great place to learn about the Mayan civilization and its rich history.
Watch your pockets! There will be endless opportunities for your money to be taken through various people looking to make their living. However, these means aren't always the best and can include coercion and trickery that you must pay them to be able to park. Trust only park designated parking areas, park workers, and information. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO PAY TO PARK!!!
Tips for travelers visiting Chichen Itza:
Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Bring a hat, water, and sunscreen.
If you are ultra sun sensitive (like me) consider bringing an umbrella for the sun as it burns hot, high, and bright without any shade in certain parts.
You don’t need to hire a guide but they can provide valuable information about the ruins.
Be respectful of the ruins, as they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, climbing is no longer allowed.
Be prepared, you will be hounded to make purchases, starting with payments for "parking" or "entry" in the town before Chichen Itza all the way through leaving. In a way it kind of ruins the experience with the incessant and repeating expectation for you to buy something.
If you are planning a trip to Chichen Itza, you will have an unforgettable experience. The ruins are an amazing sight, and you will learn a lot about the Mayan civilization. Our only regret was not having a 2nd day in which to go visit and swim at some of the lesser toured cenotes.
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