10 Things You Must See at Chichen Itza

1. El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán)

The iconic 30-meter pyramid is the crown jewel of Chichen Itza and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Each of its four sides has 91 steps, totaling 364 — plus the temple platform equals 365, one for each day of the year. During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the setting sun casts triangular shadows down the northern staircase, creating the illusion of a feathered serpent descending the pyramid.

Pro Tip: Clap your hands at the base and listen for the chirping echo that mimics the sacred quetzal bird — an intentional acoustic design by Mayan engineers.

2. The Great Ball Court

At 545 feet long and 225 feet wide, this is the largest ball court in all of Mesoamerica. The stone hoops sit 23 feet above the ground, and the court's acoustics are remarkable — a whisper at one end can be heard clearly at the other, over 150 meters away. The ball game, called pok-ta-pok, had deep religious significance and was far more than sport.

3. Temple of the Warriors

This impressive structure is surrounded by hundreds of carved columns, each depicting Toltec warriors who once supported a massive wooden roof. At the top sits a Chac Mool statue — a reclining figure holding a bowl believed to have received offerings. The temple showcases the cultural fusion between Maya and Toltec civilizations that defined Chichen Itza's golden age.

4. The Sacred Cenote

This massive natural sinkhole, 60 meters in diameter, was a site of pilgrimage and offerings to Chaac, the rain god. Archaeological excavations have recovered gold, jade, pottery, incense, and human remains from its depths. A 300-meter stone path called a sacbé connects it to El Castillo, emphasizing its ceremonial importance.

5. El Caracol (The Observatory)

This unique circular building served as an astronomical observatory. Its windows are precisely aligned with the movements of Venus, which the Maya tracked with extraordinary accuracy. The name "El Caracol" means "the snail," referring to its spiral internal staircase. It demonstrates that Mayan astronomers were among the most advanced in the ancient world.

6. Platform of Skulls (Tzompantli)

This low platform is covered with carved rows of human skulls, eagles eating hearts, and warriors. It served as a public display rack for the skulls of sacrificed victims and defeated ball game players. While macabre to modern eyes, it provides crucial insight into Mayan beliefs about death, sacrifice, and the afterlife.

7. The Nunnery (Las Monjas)

Despite its Spanish-given name, this elaborate building complex was likely an administrative palace. Its façade features some of the most intricate stone carvings at Chichen Itza, including masks of Chaac with his distinctive hooked nose. The Puuc architectural style here contrasts beautifully with the Toltec-influenced structures elsewhere on the site.

8. The Artisan Market

Lining the paths near the exit, local artisans sell handcrafted souvenirs: carved jaguar figurines, obsidian mirrors, painted skulls, hammocks, and silver jewelry. Prices are negotiable — start at about 50% of the asking price and expect to settle around 60-70%. These vendors are descendants of the Maya and their craftsmanship is exceptional.

What to Buy: Hand-carved obsidian jaguar figurines ($15-30), embroidered textiles ($20-40), and vanilla extract ($5-10) are the best values.

9. The Sound & Light Show (Noches de Kukulcán)

If you can stay for the evening, the light and sound show projects vivid colors and animations onto El Castillo while narrating the history of the Maya civilization. It's a completely different experience from the daytime visit — El Castillo transforms into a living canvas of light. Available in Spanish and English on alternating nights.

10. The Jungle Path Between Zones

Don't rush between the main structures. The jungle paths connecting Old and New Chichen Itza are home to coatimundis, iguanas, tropical birds, and the occasional spider monkey. The filtered sunlight through the canopy is beautiful for photography, and you'll often have these paths entirely to yourself while crowds cluster around the main structures.

Ready to See It All?

Our guided day tours cover all 10 of these highlights with certified bilingual guides who bring the ancient stories to life. Contact us to book your unforgettable Chichen Itza experience.

Visiting from the coast? We offer daily pickup from Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. See our best time to visit guide to plan the perfect day.