Chichen Itza has mystified people for hundreds of years. If you have to pick one day 
trip during your Cancun vacation then Chichen 
Itza has to be it. A three hour journey, but 
worth every minute, takes you to the most breathtaking ruins in the Maya world. The 
climb up El Castillo will afford you the most 
magnificent views over the surrounding miles 
of lush jungle.

One of the most famous phenomena in the 
world occurs at Chichen Itza twice a year. 
During the Spring Equinox and Autumn Solstice
the sun is in exactly the correct position
descending to the ground. This is recreated 
nightly in the awesome sound and light show after dusk.

Inside the Mayan pyramid is the famous Chac Mool sculpture and the Jaguar Throne.
 However, El Castillo isn't the only interesting feature to be found at Chichen Itza. 
The Mayan Ballpark, the Temple of the Warriors, the Cenote of Sacrifice and the 
Observatory provide other spectacular scenes from a world long forgotten.

View from Temple of the Warriors

Temple of the Warriors

Cenote of Sacrifice

Beware, Chichen Itza is far inland and you will find the temperature considerably hotter than your beachside hotel. Take plenty of water and sturdy footwear is a must. Pay heed to the warning signs (pictured below). The climb inside of the pyramid to see the statue of Chac Mool and the Temple of the Jaguars is also extremely steep, claustrophobic and very hot and humid.

Outside of the main Chichen Itza complex you will find a typical Mayan village a short walk away. Here you will find some very cheap restaurants, why not stop off for an authentic Yucatan meal? Beware the mass of street sellers, many barely old enough to talk. A simple No Gracias should be enough to dissuade them from bothering you, but the handicrafts they sell (often crafted by their own mothers and fathers) are authentic and cost next to nothing.

Chichen Itza Light & Sound Show
Experience a magical Mayan moment. Hear it, see it and feel it. The Chichen Itza light and sound show is a must for Mayan Ruin “buffs.” Chichen Itza was one of the capitals of the Mayan Empire and it will dazzle you as it is lit up by powerful and colorful lights at night. Travel back in time and feel the history in the grand archeological site. Come and see it in the day and then avoid some of the heat and check out this great Mayan site at night.