Best Time to Visit Chichen Itza: Complete 2026 Guide
The best time depends on your priorities: weather, crowds, budget, or special phenomena. This guide helps you choose.
Quick Answer
For most visitors: November through April offers the best weather with comfortable temperatures (70-85°F) and minimal rain. For avoiding crowds: Arrive before 9 AM or book our sunrise tour. For the serpent phenomenon: Visit during the spring equinox (March 20-21) or autumn equinox (September 22-23).
Chichen Itza Seasonal Breakdown
Dry Season
November - April
Best for: First-time visitors, photography, comfortable exploration
Rainy Season
May - October
Best for: Budget travelers, avoiding crowds, lush scenery
Best Time of Day to Visit Chichen Itza
Early Morning
7:00 - 9:00 AM
The best time. Cooler temperatures (70-75°F), fewer crowds, beautiful golden light for photography.
★ RecommendedMidday
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Peak crowds (5,000+ visitors), intense heat (90°F+), harsh shadows for photography.
Avoid if possibleLate Afternoon
3:00 - 5:00 PM
Crowds thin out, temperature drops, nice golden hour light. Site closes at 5 PM.
Good optionChichen Itza Special Events & Phenomena
Spring Equinox — March 20-21
The famous "Descent of Kukulkan" phenomenon occurs when the setting sun creates seven triangles of light on El Castillo's northern staircase, forming a serpent shadow descending the pyramid. Learn more in our history & facts guide.
Autumn Equinox — September 22-23
The same serpent shadow phenomenon occurs, but with significantly fewer visitors due to the rainy season.
Día de los Muertos — November 1-2
Nearby towns like Valladolid host beautiful Day of the Dead celebrations with altars, parades, and traditional food.
Chichen Itza Month-by-Month Guide
75°F
Avg Temp
High
Crowds
Low
Rain
77°F
Avg Temp
High
Crowds
Low
Rain
82°F
Avg Temp
Very High
Crowds
Low
Rain
86°F
Avg Temp
Medium
Crowds
Low
Rain
89°F
Avg Temp
Low
Crowds
Medium
Rain
90°F
Avg Temp
Low
Crowds
Medium
Rain
91°F
Avg Temp
Low
Crowds
High
Rain
91°F
Avg Temp
Low
Crowds
High
Rain
89°F
Avg Temp
Low
Crowds
High
Rain
84°F
Avg Temp
Low
Crowds
Medium
Rain
80°F
Avg Temp
Medium
Crowds
Low
Rain
76°F
Avg Temp
Very High
Crowds
Low
Rain
Ready to Book Your Perfect Visit?
Based on this guide, choose the tour that fits your schedule and preferences.