The presence of the Maya civilization in Mexico is proven in the ruins of different sites in the country. By the richness of the structures of Chichen Itza it can be confirmed that the people were present several hundred years ago and had a good knowledge of mathematics, astronomy, agriculture and art, and glorified certain religious rituals. Unfortunately, in the Yucatan region, the Mayan community was sadly shaken by the arrival of the Spaniards who forced the introduction and use of their values to even make the Spanish language compulsory for everyone. The villages were abandoned and the survival of the Mayan language then became in danger. Over the years, this Spanish dominance has faded and Mayan wealth has resurfaced but with some injuries. Today UNESCO recognizes the impressive architectural treasures of Chichen Itza and its Mayan history.

The site contains an impressive architectural ensemble of several buildings, temples and ruins of different structures used 1,000 years ago. The Temple of the Warriors, El Castillo and El Caracol (observatory) are not to be missed.

Information on the ruins: https://www.chichenitza.com/ruins

The guided tour will inform you about interesting facts about Mayan culture and rituals. Your guide will make a difference in your experience of the archaeological site. I strongly recommend that you read up on it before going there because there is no leaflet and no map once there.

For the plan: https://www.chichenitza.com/maps

Official Information on the history: https://www.chichenitza.com/history

The site can be very busy and with only a few trees, very overwhelming when sunny. The light rain, during our presence, reduced the crowd and refreshed the ambient air. You can no longer climb on any structure and it is no longer possible to enter the interior of the pyramids. However, discover the sound effect by clapping on one side of the largest pyramid, the Castle, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan.

We were there for 2 hours and that’s the minimum time I recommend since the site covers a large area, 4 square miles (10 square km). We would have liked to spend more time there, but we were 3 hours away from Playa del Carmen on an organized tour, so our time was limited. It was a very nice experience and an excellent visit.

On-site, you will also be welcomed by many merchants and will be encouraged to visit many kiosks to buy “local” products and souvenirs. It can get very hot so we recommend bringing water, water, water and an umbrella for some shade or protection from the rain.

We were very happy to have the chance to visit it! Learning more about the Mayan people has enhanced our knowledge of the civilization and the country.