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The ruins at Chichén Itzá have most recently become one of the seven new wonders of the world.
The ancient Mayan capital is the most famous of the archaeological zones in the Yucatán. It lies 120 kilometers east of Mérida in the direction of Cancun. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Chichén Itzá will take you back in time to the pre-Hispanic era to discover what life was like during those days.
Pyramid of Kukulcan
Each year during the spring equinox a natural phenomenon occurs at El Castillo (also known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan): the sunlight creates a shadow image of a plumed serpent descending down the pyramid's stairs. This unique experience draws hundreds of tourists from all over the world.
Although it is one of the most visited ruins in Mexico it remains a spectacular unique site — an ideal destination, not only for those who enjoy archaeology, but also for those who like history and the charming allure of ancient civilizations.
Due to the visitor numbers Audley recommends visiting the ruins as early in the day as is possible to avoid the crowds of day-trippers that arrive from Cancun.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Chichén Itzá by contacting one of our Mexico specialists
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Suggested itineraries featuring Chichén Itzá
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Chichén Itzá, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Chichén Itzá
- Yucatán Peninsula 89 kilometers away
- Cobá 90 kilometers away
- Mérida 114 kilometers away
- Kabáh 123 kilometers away
- Tulum 129 kilometers away
- Uxmal 131 kilometers away
- The Mayan Riviera 157 kilometers away
- Playa del Carmen 157 kilometers away
- Isla Holbox 170 kilometers away
- Cancun 187 kilometers away
- Isla Mujeres 201 kilometers away
Photos of Chichén Itzá
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![Chichén Itzá, Mexico]()
Chichén Itzá, Mexico -
![Temple of the Warriors, Chichén Itzá]()
Temple of the Warriors, Chichén Itzá -
![Chichén Itzá, Mexico]()
Chichén Itzá, Mexico -
![Chichén Itzá, Mexico]()
Chichén Itzá, Mexico -
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Chichén Itzá, Mexico -
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Chichén Itzá, Mexico -
![Chichen Itza, Mexico]()
Chichen Itza, Mexico -
![Chichén Itzá, Mexico]()
Chichén Itzá, Mexico
Our expert guides to exploring Chichén Itzá
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Chichén Itzá, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Chichén Itzá at its best.
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A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá ![Chichén Itzá, Mexico]()
A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá
A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá
An ancient Mayan capital and the most famous of all the archaeological sites on the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichén Itzá is not to be missed on a trip to Mexico.
Read this guide -
Family vacations in Mexico ![Temple of the Warriors, Chichén Itzá]()
Family vacations in Mexico
Family vacations in Mexico
Audley travel specialist Anna shares her tips for where to go and what to do on a Mexico family vacation. Focusing on the Yucatán Peninsula, she explains how you can combine beach time with wildlife watching and visiting ancient ruins.
Read this guide -
What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide ![Teotihuacán, Mexico]()
What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide
What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide
Mexico’s character is many-sided. From cosmopolitan colonial cities and vibrant markets to mountain wilderness, sleepy Caribbean islands, vast cacti-covered deserts and a wealth of intriguing ancient ruins, specialist Carolyn shares her highlights.
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Accommodation choices for Chichén Itzá
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Chichén Itzá. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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![Hacienda Chichen, Chichén Itzá]()
Responsible ChoiceWe've hand-selected a range of tours and stays across the world that go above and beyond to be a force for good by supporting local businesses, educating staff, challenging local norms, or promoting conservation and biodiversity efforts. Your Responsible Choice helps increase the positive impact of your trip.Hacienda Chichén
Chichén Itzá
Ideas for experiencing Chichén Itzá
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Chichén Itzá, and which use the best local guides.
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Chichén Itzá Excursion ![Chichén Itzá, Mexico]()
Chichén Itzá Excursion
Chichén Itzá Excursion
The famous Mayan pyramids of Chichén Itzá are over 1,500 years old. The name Chichén Itzá is a Mayan word: CHI (mouth) CHEN (well) and ITZA (of the witch water). Some say this is because people were often thrown into the nearby cenote as sacrifices, and those who survived were believed to be seers.
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