Chichén Itzá (Mouth of the well of the Itzaes) (full day trip)

The grandeur of its monumental buildings well reflects the city had during its apogee. The oldest part, "Old Chichén", dates back to the 6th century of our era; the Puuc and Chenes styles dominate its architecture.

You will sense the genius of the Mayan culture as Chichén Itzá's unique architecture speaks through its keen sense of proportion and décor. The most important building of Old Chichén is, without doubt, the Caracol (the Conch), a circular structure from the 10th century that used to be an astronomical observatory.

The Castillo, also called the "Pyramid of Kukulkan", is one of the greatest architectural achievements in all of the Americas. Dedicated to Kukulkan, the "Plumed Serpent", its three hundred sixty five steps represent the days of the solar year. Chichén Itzá attracts a large number of visitors on the days of equinox (March 21 and September 21). Between 4 p.m. and sundown, the position of the sun on these days creates the illusion of a giant snake of light gliding down the pyramid’s main flight of stairs, thus symbolizing the return of the "Plumed Snake" to his people. If you want to avoid the large crowds of people present on these specific days, we recommend you go on the day before, or the day after equinox (20th or 22nd, respectively); the phenomenon is visible on these days as well.

Yet another attraction of this site is the New World’s largest ball court. The court is richly decorated with images in relief and is in excellent condition for its age. Most certainly, the majestic city of Chichén Itzá holds the richest legacy of the so-called Lowlands that the Mayan culture has left to science and art.

Go back