So you’re ready to check one of the Seven Wonders of the World off your bucket list, but you don’t know where to start? We have your exclusive guide to making the most of your visit to Chichén Itzá. See a side to the ancient grounds like never before. Don’t just make it a notch in your world-tour-belt—experience the pyramids as the Mayans did. We have ten helpful tips to know before visiting Chichén Itzá.

10 Tips to Know Before Visiting Chichén Itzá

• Enjoy a Private Entrance

What if we told you we could let you in the backdoor to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Skip the lines and the chaos of visiting Chichén Itzá when you visit through Mayaland’s private entrance. Mayaland was the first hotel ever to be constructed on an archeological site. Revel in a truly one-of-a-kind experience as you walk the roads the Mayans walked while building the massive temple.

• Go With a Certified Guide

Regardless of how you enter, you’ll want to tag along with a certified guide. Listen to the stories of the Mayan people and learn the ins and outs of the archeological site through the people who know it best—their descendants. Certified guides are available through all of our Chichén Itzá tours.

• Bring Water and Shade

This is likely on the top of your list already, but it’s worth noting. With temperatures averaging at 88 degrees Fahrenheit and no shade from the surrounding jungle, you don’t want to get caught without hydration and a ballcap. Don’t forget to pack the essentials when you visit Chichén Itzá!

• See It at Sunrise

The massive structure is awe-inspiring at all times of the day, but there is something genuinely exceptional as you watch the orange glow rise over the stones, illuminating one of the world’s greatest wonders. 

It’s also one of the quietest times at the pyramid. Even with the minimal crowd that gathers, you won’t find a hear a single noise as the sun rises to make its appearance. Book your private sunrise experience here! 

• Visit During an Equinox

Equinox at Chichén Itzá happens twice a year. Spring equinox occurs March 21st, and fall equinox is September 21st. During those two days only, seven triangles appear on the side of the staircases and then connect at the top with the feathered serpent. The occurrence is present for about 45 minutes before dissipating over the crowd. 

Equinox brings some of the world’s best singers and songwriters to perform on one of the best stages. Join the masses for this natural phenomenon this year!

• Pack Pesos

Entering the grounds from the public entrance will put you back 232 pesos or 13 American dollars. The streets coming into the area, as well as the entrance, are lined with local merchants, and you’ll want to be sure to have cash on hand to go home with some handmade merchandise to commemorate your trip. 

• Horseback to Chichen Itza

Wind through the jungle on horseback while you listen to the stories of ancient Mayan culture. Explore the sacbeob, ancient Mayans roads, as you weave your way to the towering Chichén Itzá. Book your tour today! 

• Slap on the Sunscreen

Again, the heat is oppressive in Mexico, and you’ll want to be prepared. Protect your skin from harsh UV rays—always remember to pack your sunscreen along. 

• Awe at the Chichén Itzá Light and Sound Show

Discover the story of how Chichén Itzá came to be through sound and light at the pyramid’s nightly show. Book your tour through Mayaland and make a day of exploring the Yucatan’s most amazing natural and manmade creations. Mayaland’s Chichén Itzá Light Show Tour includes a swim in one of the area’s crystal blue cenotes, lunch and snacks in the hospitality suite, use of the hotel’s private entrance for viewing the light and sound show.  

• Stay Within Walking Distance of Chichén Itzá

A trip to Chichén Itzá isn’t complete without a stay at Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows. Enjoy plush king-size beds, luxurious bath products, relaxing, poolside hammocks, gourmet, authentic Mayan dishes, and so much more. Enjoy the comfort of opulent hotel living flawlessly blended with authentic Old Yucatan. We can’t wait to welcome you to Mayaland!