Chichen Itza

This ancient Mayan city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Yucatan peninsula, in Mexico. Chichen Itza means 'at the mouth of the well of the Itza' and is a reference to the Cenote Sagrado or Sacred Cenote (well). This archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and contains many large Mayan structures, including the impressive El Castillo pyramid.
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Lake
Nature & Parks
Sacred Cenote, also known as Cenote Zaci, is a renowned Mayan archaeological site and remote lake with facilities such as showers and changing rooms. The area features notable attractions like the well-preserved ball court, the temple of a thousand warriors' columns, and the skull platform. This cenote served as a water source and was used for sacrificial rituals during droughts. Currently undergoing renovation, it's advisable to check availability before visiting if staying outside Valladolid.
I am personally afraid of water and stuff like that but there was little catfish and my family overall very fun
Jt instinct 09 — Google review
Amazing place to visit has a lot of adventures, lovely nature and amazing people. This place has a lot of history that will surprise you. It is a great place to relax yourself with the family. I will come here and visit again at anytime.
Marlon Morales — Google review
It is a piece of heaven on the way to Chichen Itza. I like this Cenote mora than the other one on the way to Tulum. It is more naand gorgeous place to swim.
Sam Dan — Google review
Like all of the cenotes I visited in Mexico each has something special about them. This one inside Chichen Itza was hard to view but nonetheless interesting. Was told that they’ve found gold trinkets, pottery and bones in the bottom. Sacrificing? Most probably but yet to be confirmed. Wheelchair friendly. Kid friendly. Included in the entrance fee. A lot of vendors on the path on the way to the cenote. Refreshments available st entrance. Good toilets nearby.
Debi Slinger — Google review
I got there because of the tourist guide tours. It is very wonderful. You need to rent a vest to be able to swim. I would recommend to rent a car and go there yourself for tourist tours don't give you enough time.
Raynier Mark Bautista — Google review
I like the place. Amazing. We used a tour, tour guide included. The tour was included with the Chichen Itza tour. Tour guide Informed us about each history. We enjoyed the cenote swim. You don't have to jump from the platform, you can use the stairs to go down the water. We paid for the water vest, including the locker for your valuables.
Susie Q — Google review
One of the best excursions I have been on.
Vicki Cordova — Google review
The Sacred Cenote refers to a noted cenote at the pre-Columbian Maya archaeological site of Chichen Itza, in the northern Yucatán Peninsula . Mexico Impressive location , fantastic time with friends and relatives . Excellent Discovery .
Corbin Fadi Tom — Google review
Very fun, only annoying thing was they only take cash
Bob Jim — Google review
97751 Yucatan, MexicoSacred Cenote reservations
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Archaeological site
Sights & Landmarks
Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Yucatan Peninsula, is an ancient Maya city that boasts of some of the most intricate architectural buildings, astronomical observatory structures and remarkable stone monoliths. The city's iconic Temple of Kukulkan or El Castillo pyramid ruin stands tall as a testament to this great civilization's achievements. Visitors can explore this enigmatic site through guided tours and learn about the ancient Maya civilization's history and culture.
You have to go with a tour guide to really appreciate the history of this place. It’s one of the new wonders of the world and it’s definitely worth a visit. The natural sound system was amazing, plus the tour guide gives you the reason why it’s considered to be a wonder of the world and it’s just awesome! Lots of vendors but we were in a tour group so it’s easier not to get distracted by them. Hats/umbrellas are recommended, thankfully the tour provided umbrellas. The structures are related to each other and we learned a lot about the history of this place. Highly recommended!
Oliver Balderas — Google review
This place is amazing. Lots of History make sure to take a tour so you guys can get the most out of it. Amigo tours is awesome if you're looking for a recommendation. Ask for Rodrigo he is the best!
Big Brother — Google review
Excellent experience to see. Make sure you're prepared for the onslaught of vendors as you go through the gates as it is very much a tourist trap. Take time to explore the surrounding buildings as there are quite a few, all with their own history as well. It's quite a feature to see and there is lots to fill your day with.
Skoe — Google review
The Mayan temples here are preserved extremely well and are a must visit when you are in Mexico. The history and the architecture are fascinating and the fact that they were built so well is incredible. Make sure to have at least 1.5 hours to cover everything and more to do it at a leisurely pace.
RV — Google review
A must see when visiting the Yucatan. Amigo Tours out of Cancun makes the process simple. I highly recommend this tour. Amigo picks you up and drops you off from your hotel. The bus is nice and roomy. The cenote lunch buffet was very good.
Traveler Joe — Google review
A must see and definitely a place to add to your bucket list. Drove from Cancun and it took about 2 and half hours with little to no traffic for most of the drive. Definitely worth booking a tour when factoring in the price of tolls & gas if you are looking for a more budget friendly option. The toll lines could take up to 15 minutes. Several times just before arriving we were waved our by tour locations that made it seem like we had to get a tour but, luckily from reading all the reviews before we just keep driving. We didn’t get a tour guide and definitely would not say it is mandatory although I did already know a lot about the location and culture before this trip. If you don’t then getting a tour with transportation would definitely be a great option. We parked at a local spot just before the official parking which was about a five minute walk to the park. We bought tickets when we arrived. We went on a week day and arrived a little before noon and waited about 15-20 minutes to get our tickets. We were able to walk the entire park in less than 3 hours. Plenty of options from souvenir vendors all over the park and from the walk in. Overall it was an amazing experience and definitely the best place we went to when visiting the the Yucatán peninsula.
Keaton Klemencic — Google review
Great place to visit. We stopped here on our excursion. We had a guided tour. I would suggest showing up very early before the heat and massive crowds show up. I would also recommend a guided tour so you can have someone explain everything you are seeing . The pyramid is absolutely gorgeous, and a wonder to see.
Ross Bloor — Google review
One of the biggest city of the Mayan this place is one of the best historical landmarks to see in Mexico. There is a special sound you can hear from the pyramid if you clap your hand standing at the bottom. It’s very mystical and wonderful to experience the culture of the ancient Mayans.
Yaseen Ali — Google review
Wow, what a place. Beautiful and had a great tour. Beware a lot of sellers on site - you need to haggle. However they are pretty respectful if your not interested. Seemed a bit at odds given the religious heritage.
Paul Smith — Google review
Great place with rich history. These ruins are absolutely amazing to visit. We did this in a tour with a separate company that had guides walking us through each of the areas. If you can, try to bring pesos in cash for the countless vendors selling items. They accept some visa cards as well but there's a fee. Highly recommend visiting!
Abe G — Google review
Fantastic site with many temples to view; spread over a few acre site which includes a cenote. Expect to spend a few hours here but be aware there are many stall holders located on site although by and large they are very friendly and not pushy.
Len Elkington — Google review
I had read so many blogs before visiting and was so hyped to see one of the seven wonders of the world, but I guess I was disappointed because of the hype I created. It is a good experience to see some ancient civilization history, and all of the ruins is inside the same compound which is within convenient walking distance.
Nikita Jhunjhunwala — Google review
Absolutely stunning! A fantastic area surrounding a famous archaeological location. You must visit here when in Mexico and make sure you go with a local guide who can tell you the history of the area and make sure you do not miss any of the stunning features. Also keep an eye out for the iguanas that have made the area their home.
Matthew Harwood — Google review
Truly amazing place. You should definitely go, but prepare yourself for many insta-posers and a lot of touristy selling stuff. If you are able to turn off the noise created by people, and tune in into the history and sound of birds, it will be a very enjoyable experience. Ensure that you read about it before you go, so that you can appreciate it as it deserves.
Olivera Novaković — Google review
This was an incredible experience, hard to describe the scope and scale. The ruins have been restored but there are incredible original pieces and especially the artwork carved into stone and statues were extremely detailed and finely wrought. Make sure to bring water we went in March and it was 90 with humidity. The only drawback was the vendors to many people selling trinkets took away from the authenticity of the experience.
Phillip Wilson — Google review
rich history and beautiful site. for sure worth visiting if you're around the area. Tickets for Mexicans are free. Try getting a tour guide from the entrance to explain the parts.
Babak Barghi — Google review
These were the most amazing people we took this tour through carnival my goodness it was so awesome the only problem we had was the drive was so long but the tour guides were amazing they made you feel at home... Do not get caught up with the people selling in the market we were almost left because of that.
The Voice of Reason — Google review
The experience was amazing, the place is beautiful and so big, wear some comfy snickers for your visit, don’t forget to bring your own bottle of water, inside you can buy something to drink but is too expensive. Bring a hat and sunscreen as is too sunny. I loved the place but I couldn’t enjoy 100% as there are too many sellers on the side of the road and inside the archaeological zone as well.
Luc?a De Le?n — Google review
Stunning, simply breathtaking. You get the sense of history and can literally see the images of the past before your eyes. A true world wonder.
Shimurasaki — Google review
If I could give 10 stars I would. The ruins are breathtaking! We went as a self guided group and got tickets pretty quickly despite the line up.
Jessica Lau — Google review
Great experience.. Beautiful Place with lots of history. I recommend to get a guide while you visiting. There are lot to learn about this place and alot to explore. Really wonders by the structure and there mathematical precision while building this. Try the Echo sound and you will be amazed by the results. Only negative is the local vendors, they will loot your money if you don't play smart. Also while packing keep an eye. They will outsmart you sometimes and won't pack the full items you bought. Must carry a bottle of water and an umbrella if you are visiting on day. It's really hot and there is only one shop selling water and it's quite expensive. Rest everything is awesome. A true and genuine Mayan Pyramid..
Ragesh P Nair — Google review
Absolutely amazing place! I have to knock off a star because, it is considered an archeological site, yet there are market vendors EVERYWHERE harassing you while you try to enjoy the magic of the site. Not to mention, another disappointment is there is garbage (on the ground) to be found which is very disrespectful to the Mayans as it is a sacred place. Despite this, I do recommend going as it's a beautiful site.
Amanda K — Google review
A must see when visiting Mexico, such a beautiful place full of history. You find all kind of souvenirs and yummy food. Super recommended!!
Grace Quijano — Google review
One of the new wonders of the world! Hire a tour guide even if it is expensive it is worth it. Otherwise, you will miss out on some fascinating insights about the architecture and history of this marvel. It is truly a wonder. The Mayan history and their detailing left in each of the ruins leaves you in awe. We spent 3 hours, and even though it was hot, the stories made us spend a lot of time here.
Aiswarya P — Google review
Fascinating architecture. Budget 2 to 4 hours inclusive of time for parking & the ticket window if arriving at the 08:00 open. Bring at least 250 pesos in cash for the on-site parking & souvenirs from the many vendors sprawled throughout the site. Do not stop for the unaffiliated guide/parking sellers on the way in — instead drive directly up to the on-site parking toll gate right next to the entrance facility.
Jonathan Yam — Google review
It’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World. You don’t need a tour guide for this. Each building has a placard with the historical information(in English and Spanish). They have drinks and food inside. You can also buy souvenirs inside you will have plenty of choices. It’s a lot bigger in person and definitely lots of walking.
Giovanni — Google review
Very cool sight to see! Highly recommend the action tour guide app on the App Store as it is cheap and gps based. Highly recommend at least a tour guide because there is so much more to see besides for the main attraction! In other words: Highly Recommend!!!
Ben Siefert — Google review
Must see if you are in the Maya Riviera area. I went twice - once as an excursion booked at the resort and this year just on our own. If you are driving there, parking is $80 MEX, have water with you as it’s very hot (went in March), we got the ‘Skip the line’ tickets and it moved fast ($70 USD per person). Lots of vendors if you are looking for souvenirs. Lots of walking so wear comfortable shoes. It takes about 2-3 hours to visit and if it’s your first time, might be worth getting a guide.
Alina G — Google review
We were there with about 20,000 other people on the 21 of march for the equinox and let me tell you the tour guide we had was the best. He had a lot of information to share and helped us get around with ease. The property is massive and very impressive
Daniel a — Google review
It is definitely place you have to visit. Be aware that it can get very sunny and there are no many shadow spots, so bring the umbrella or a hat, otherwise you will not be able to withstand the heat.
MrGrzechM — Google review
This was by far my favorite place to visit while on vacation here in Mexico. The rich history and architecture was really fascinating! There’s so much to take in here, I loved it! All the vendors can be overwhelming at times but it’s also understanding. Great visit! FYI you cannot take a portable speaker in and you have to pay to take in your GoPro camera.
Thomas Coleman — Google review
Very long day on a tour bus to get here, but it's worth it. The site was amazing. However, try to make sure that your tour bus has adequate seating. Ours was very uncomfortable.
Shannon Dorough — Google review
Amazing ruins, its definitely a must see. Lots of history that's explained by the tour guides. There's a lot of tourists but the entire complex is huge so it doesn't feel too crowded. Be prepared for a long day if traveling from Cancun, the drive is about 3 hours to the ruins and the tour (including swimming in the cenotes) takes about 3 hours. I would suggest that you bring food, water, sunscreen and a hat or an umbrella (the sun is pretty brutal). Be prepared to be approached over and over again and to negotiate if you want to buy something there.
Kavita Ram — Google review
Beautiful sight and so much to see. Definitely recommend doing a guided tour and having someone walk you around to start and give you some background on this amazing site. Great place to buy gifts for friends and family. The pyramid is so impressive and beautiful. I spent about two hours here and felt like that was more than enough to walk around the entire place and go back to anymore buildings or sites that I wanted to see again. Very accessible and easy to move around the entire place. You’ll be walking around on easy level ground the entire time.
Andres Sanchez — Google review
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5.0
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Mentioned on 
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
El Castillo is a prominent Maya temple and step-pyramid located within the archaeological site of Chichen Itza. The Temple of Kukulkan, as it is also known, stands out as the highlight of this ancient complex. Visitors can choose to explore the site on their own or opt for a tour with a private archaeologist to gain deeper insights into its history and cultural significance.
We booked this excursion through Royal Caribbean on our Cozumel day. First we had to take a ferry from Cozumel to the mainland. We then met our tour guide and boarded a Mercedes van. We then drove to Chechen Itza, it took about 2 hours. So about 3 hours in all to get there. Snacks were provided. This was a wonderful experience. Our guide kept us entertained the entire way out there. He was truly a Mayan history buff. He loved his job. The temples are amazing. They had an incredible understanding of mathematics and astronomy. It’s truly worth the adventure to get out there and see them.
Darren — Google review
This is one of the seven wonders in the world and is amazing. The structure is well preserve. The whole location, this Mayan city is amazing and it brings you back to see how admirable this civilization was. Definitely a place to visit. It can be hard on little kids and elderly, however, don't get discourage just prepare accordingly. Definitely get plenty of water as it is outdoors and very hot.
Maria Marshall — Google review
We didn't want to wait in long line...got us a 50 minute tour guide. He was great! Could have gotten an hour and 1/2 long tour but that was too long for us! Our guide did a great job explaining everything to us!! His English was understandable!! Then he let us roam the place on our own! I can't imagine that era people being able to use the constellations to make that building accordingly to their calendar!!! And for there to be 3 in one!!!!too cool!!! Too smart!!!! Make sure you have lots of American dollar bills. So much would have been just a $1 if we had brought $1 with us!! All we had was pesos!! If you don't have a hat?!?! You will need one!!! Buy it in the town right before the ruin!!! Cheap...$5...we paid at the entrance $25!!!
Sidney & Jeannie Hughes — Google review
Just go. Stay wherever you can nearby and just go. Get a tour guide so you know what the heck you're looking at. There's a lot to see, bring serious sun protection and water. Be respectful and don't leave anything behind. Do the clapping thing 👏 in front of the Castillo so you can hear the sound of the quetzal!
Priscilla Arballo — Google review
Great to see it in person. Definitely an impressive building! Make sure to arrive early as you will get the chance to have some beautiful pictures from the pyramid with only a few of other people on them. The pyramid will be the first building you will approach starting from the official entrance.
Axel Steer — Google review
Felt surreal to see another wonder of the world up close. It was a truly lovely experience. If you're ever in Mexico please make sure you visit.
olatayo ariba — Google review
Dont like that you have to buy two tickets to get in 1. for the state 2. to actually get in. There are a lot of vendors everywhere and a lot of guides before you get in. I actually made it for the last hour, and it was empty and was able to take some good pictures without a lot of people.
Rafael Garcia — Google review
My first trip to a wonder of the world and it didn’t disappoint! Beautiful Mayan ruins that are a must seen if visiting Cancun/ Surrounding Area, our guide was outstanding and took us on a long detailed tour of the entire ruins (much more to see than just the temple) Highly recommend getting there are early as possible to avoid the crowds and the incredibly hot weather, shade is not in abundance so plenty of water and sun cream advised. Highly Recommend.
Dan Bulpin — Google review
Really good. Incredible place and generally set up well. Don’t get a tour from the people outside the entrance as it’s double what the price is inside. Just after you have gone through ticket barrier. We paid 1000 peso for private tour for two people.
andy baker — Google review
An incredible experience. The area is much larger than I anticipated with so many other ruins. Not to be missed and well deserved of it's place in the 7 new Wonders of the World. No need to buy tickets in advance. We were there before it opened at 8am and on a Sunday, the busiest day as Mexicans get free admittance and we only waited 10 mins to get a ticket. Lots of people say there's no shade and while that's the case around El Castillo, there's lots of shade in the overall area
Mary Phelan — Google review
Priceless memories of one of the new 7 wonders of the world. Very hot! Bugs weren't an issue in May. Bring and/or drink plenty of water. Expect to walk. Amazing sights and very good tour guides.
Josh .O — Google review
Great experience definitely worth visiting. If you do some reading before you go to learn the history and cultural significance you don't need a guide. We did have a guide and it was nice getting some of the little bits of specialized information.
Tony Hungate — Google review
It’s an amazing place, one of the wonders of the world, you cannot but the tickets online so you must do the line, if you go before 11am the line is 10-15 min, after 12 could be more than 30 min, the price is 25-30 usd and it’s worth it
Boris Davidson — Google review
During the day it's wonderful, but during the night is breathtaking. Every Sunday you can take the chance to walk in the ruins during the night and Enjoy the magical light show around the Maya history ( 30 minutes duration circa ). The availability is reduced, so I suggest to book well in Advance for your tickets.
Pietro Dell' Erba — Google review
Truly amazing archeological site. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable. I learned so much. Not too crowded. Watch out for the vendors. They will rip you off. Silver is never true silver. Always bargain for better price!
Marta Falkiewicz — Google review
this thing is so cool! i would definitely recommend getting a guide or doing some of your own reading/research to understand all of the incredible detail in here. there is so much math, planning, culture beyond the beauty. super super interesting, our guide was great. i was able to get a tour package from cancun for $58, which seemed good since entry is $39. i think skip the line tickets would be worth it, there is so much to see.
whitney sol — Google review
It is an impressive sight. Must see if you are in Yucatan. If course, the place is very crowded. And it is hot, much hotter than at the coast. Be sure to bring sun protection. If you ask yourself why everyone is clapping, try it in front of the stairs and took you'll hear the effect that sounds like a bird. Parking is available but it's a decent walk to reach the pyramid.
S S — Google review
Our guide was fantastic! We got there right as they opened and it was perfect. There were very few people there and it gave us plenty of time to get some breathtaking shots! I highly recommend taking the drive out here to see this New World Wonder!
Amanda Ligenza — Google review
It is truly an experience everyone should do. It's so amazing how we are still able to touch these ancient stones that once housed the Mayan city. Mysterious as they are the history is rich and there is lots of information to read. Many vendors litter the entire park, so come prepare to purchase at least 1 souvenir. Keep an eye out for the Jaguars 🐆
Dusty Bottoms — Google review
Like how can anyone say anything bad about this place? Definitely get a tour guide because they while give you so much knowledge on the Mayan culture. Amazing! Incredible! Phenomenal! Truly the 7th wonder of the world! Please go see it, especially on March 21 or September 21 for the equinox!
Suelen Chimanski — Google review
Went with a Cancun Adventure tour guide that picked us up at our hotel. David was great as our guide. There are a lot of ruins to see throughout the archeological area. Also a lot of pushy vendors selling the same souvenirs. Would give 5 stars except for all the pushy vendors. I don't agree that they are inside the site selling their stuff.
Damian Reyes — Google review
Truly a magnificent wonderer of the world - not just a stunning piece of art - build with so much knowledge of math, and physics that is mind blowing. A must see place for history lovers. Impressive to say the least the capability and knowledge of Mayan civilization. Forever in awe of their values, believes and way of living …
Noshin Hashim — Google review
Phenomenal ruins of ancient Mayas. Fabulous and unforgettable. There are also a lot of sellers selling fabulous souvenirs for the best prices we could find on Yucatan.
Alexander Parson — Google review
What can I even say about the wonder of the world!!! It's amazing with all the history still around it. Definitely recommend a guide to explain the history behind each and every element present in there. Had a wonderful time as my friends and I visited at the earliest hours, so it wasn't too hot or crowded.
Veda K T — Google review
It's a modern wonder of the world and impressive in its set up. It may also rely a little too much on its marketing to draw up a crowd. Did this as a day trip from Playa del Carmen and it's possible, just be prepared to get up very early to skip the crowds and it's going to be a long day. It helps to do this with a guide or tour group just to get on site, there's lots of directing the tourist cars to other car parks... The entrance itself is very well constructed but told in the afternoon, once crowds arrive it can get overwhelming. The site itself is large but all walkable, well maintained (and told even heavily renovated). The guide can provide information on the site (with a warning that all of it is informed conjecture as nothing was written down). The pyramid itself is iconic and impressive (but not unique or the largest I'm led to understand). It's all sealed off now, so no going inside anymore. The building with pillars is also of note and worth spending time to admire. The ball game area was closed off. You'll get some awesome photos here and see something that is likely to be a lifetime experience so it's worth your time, though would struggle to say you'll spend a day seeing all the ruins alone (likely something else will need to be tagged on). Noticed lots of stalls setting up for the afternoon so the morning is the ideal time to avoid crowds (might need a guide for this). I have no doubt that marketing plays a part with the fame of this site though because of it it's made it an easy place to introduce yourself to the Mayans. Just beware if it's a solstice or an equinox expect insane crowds.
Julian Johnson — Google review
An incredible place to see with all the special things entailing (echoing of the bird when clapping etc). A truly special experience and definitely worth doing. After entering I would highly recommend taking a tour guide because otherwise you just don't know what this place is about. The guide can give you many more insights and it's worth spending the extra money for it.
Dani Knoll — Google review
A Mesmerizing Experience: Unveiling the Hidden Marvels This remarkable attraction left me in awe! I wholeheartedly endorse seeking out a knowledgeable guide or delving into your own reading and research to fully appreciate the intricate details woven into this place. Beyond its sheer beauty, there’s a fascinating blend of mathematics, meticulous planning, and rich cultural context. During my visit, our guide was exceptional, enhancing the experience with their insights. I managed to secure a tour package from Cancun for a reasonable $58, considering that the regular entry fee is $39. If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend investing in skip-the-line tickets; trust me, there’s an abundance of captivating sights waiting to be explored! 🌟🌎 Now, let’s delve into some practical tips to make the most of your visit: Arrive Early: To truly savor the magic of this place, set your alarm clock and arrive early. The tranquility of the morning hours allows you to absorb the grandeur without the hustle and bustle of crowds. Plus, you’ll beat the scorching heat that descends later in the day. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: The sun can be relentless, and shade is a rare commodity. Be prepared by carrying a sturdy water bottle. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself as you sip cool water while marveling at the intricate architecture. Sun Protection: Don your favorite wide-brimmed hat, slather on sunscreen, and wear lightweight, breathable clothing. The heat can be stifling, and there’s not much shade to seek refuge under. Remember, this place isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a living testament to human ingenuity and cultural heritage. So, go forth, explore, and let the wonders of this site leave an indelible mark on your soul! 🌄🌿🌞
Clayton C. — Google review
One of the new wonders of the ancient world. An absolutely stunning location and one which you cannot miss when visiting Mexico. Filled with history and fascinating features you will need a local historian and guide to truly experience the wonder of this site.
Matthew Harwood — Google review
Incredible Mayan ruins 💙. HAVE TO SEE if you are in Mexico as one of the 7 new wonders on the earth 🌍. But … I have to say, there were more people like on summer festival. Craziness. Also is possibility to do your own Mayan calendar construe of your date birth. Very love this 🖤. Spiritual and deep.
Sarah — Google review
4.9
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4.5
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Mentioned on 
Museums
Historical landmark
El Caracol, also known as the Observatory, is an ancient Mayan ruin located south of the Great Pyramid at Chichen Itza. Built around AD 906, it features a unique interior spiral staircase and was constructed with precise astronomical alignment. The observatory is aimed at 27.5 degrees north of west, perfectly aligning with Venus's northernmost position in the sky.
Beautiful archeological marvel! Recommend to visit the place with local guide tour. You will learn a good historic information about the place.
Satish Vathare — Google review
The caracol observatory is located away from the main plaza of Chichen Itza so make sure that you don't miss it. There is no access to the upper levels of the structure so it must be viewed from some distance and the interior of the observatory is sadly, off limits.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
El Caracol, 'the Observatory', was for the Mayan people to observe changes in the sky through the openings at the top of the tower. El Caracol means 'snail' in Spanish, is due to the spiral staircase inside the tower. Beautiful archaeological site, definitely deserve a visit to appreciate the historical remains
CK Cheong — Google review
The El Caracol or Observatory is the ruin of a building south of the Great Pyramid. These guys who built this piece knew exactly what they were doing. It is constructed at the same time that people in Europe still believed that the earth was flat as a pancake. The construction is aimed at 27.5 degrees north of west which is not in line with the other buildings on the site but an almost perfect direction for Venus northernmost position in the sky. In addition, a diagonal formed by the northeast and southwest corners of the building is in line with both sunrise at summer solstice and sunset at winter solstice.
Magnus Ericson — Google review
We arrived early morning before the heat kicked in. What an amazing place, the history, the science and the stunning scenery a must see for any visit to the Yuchatan peninsula
Lynda Idle — Google review
The Caracol astronomical observatory is located away from the main plaza of Chichén Itza so make sure that you don't miss it. There is no access to the upper levels of the structure so it must be viewed from some distance and the interior of the observatory is sadly, off limits. Still, it is a unique building and one of the most famous structures built by the Maya.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
We arrived at 8 AM at Chichen Itza and already a long waiting line. We hadn't booked tickets online :( If we booked a tour with an official guide, we could bypass the waiting line; so we did. We visited with Alex an official guide the complete area of Chichen Itza. El Caracol was part of the tour. Alex told about the history, knew how to make the best shots.
Petra (Pitch) — Google review
Everything at Chichen Itza is worth seeing!
Daniel Genis — Google review
This is really cool. The Maya were fascinated with the stars and watched them closely with the belief that they could predict events and shed light on the past. Seeing what they built in order to do that is impressive to say the least. If you're in the area, you can't miss a visit to Chichen Itza, it's an amazing site!
Matthew Lyons — Google review
El Caracol is a spectacular example of Mayan engineering, science and spacial understanding of our solar system, our planet and its neighbors. The civilization that incorporated the use of zero as did the Cambodians, Indians (of India) Arabs, and finally the Europeans starting in the 13th century. That led to the European scientific revolution of the 17th century.
John deCoville — Google review
97751 Chichén Itzá, Yuc., MexicoEl Caracol reservations

5Red House

4.7
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Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Also referred to as Chichanchob, this expansive residence characterized by the Puuc architectural style is accompanied by a petite ball court. It predates the renowned Castillo Pyramid and various other prominent structures at Chichen Itza. Archeologists have estimated its construction to have occurred circa 850 AD. The pyramid, standing over 20 feet tall, features a six-room edifice that can be accessed via a broad staircase.
Nice
Wietse van der Meij — Google review
Also known as Chichanchob, this large residential structure with a small ball court attached to it is built in the Puuc style, and is older than the Castillo Pyramid or most of the well known buildings at Chichen Itza. The archeologists have dated it to around the year 850 AD. The more than 20 foot pyramid is topped by a six room building accessed by a wide stairway. The building itself has three doors and sports a large frieze on its crest. A less visited monument but well worth your time.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
Ok
suhiman rasmad — Google review
(Translated by Google) Beautiful temple, particular base and colour. (Original) Bel tempio, particolare il basamento e la colorazione.
Renato Toss — Google review
📸
Antoni Kowal — Google review
(Translated by Google) Excellent reconstruction like almost all that can be seen in the Archaeological Park of Chichén Itzá. (Original) Excelente reconstrucción como casi todas las que pueden verse en el Parque Arqueológico de Chichén Itzá.
Rodolfo Baffy — Google review
(Translated by Google) Very nice facility in good condition. (Original) Sehr schöne Anlage gut erhalten.
Heinz Kordy — Google review
97751 Yuc., Mexico
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