Mission NWW : Visiting Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza was one of the largest cities of the Maya people who are probably the first civilizations in the Americas along with the one in Peru. Chichen Itza was huge and unique reflecting the architectural style of the city. Most of the Maya’s heritage from the 6th century is lost or destroyed (purportedly) over time and Chichen Itza in the Yucatan state of Mexico is the finest Mayan ruins today from all the regions they lived from Mexico to Costa Rica. No wonder it is voted as New Wonder of the World and around 2 million people visit this ancient site from all over the world every year. If ancient civilizations are your cup of tea, this is a paradise.

So how was my experience?

What did I love in Chichen Itza?

I loved local people more than anything else. They are super friendly, helpful, and welcomed with smiles. Honestly, I was not much amazed by the architecture since they are very scattered and very few are in good shape like El Castillo(meaning ‘The Castle’). One special attraction worth visiting is cenotes (meaning ‘Sink Holes’) which were the primary water supply for Mayans, which were formed by collapsing rocks and thus creating a pool. They are unique and colorful formations with hanging rocks and roots. The most famous one is Il Kil with crystal clear waters.

Swimming is a major fun activity in cenotes and all the required gear can be rented on site. There are also cenotes which allow scuba-diving for a more thrilling experience.

Did Chichen Itza meet my expectations?

Not really, as a tourist. Sure there is so much Mayan civilization to learn and the talent of these people is astonishing. Especially, El Castillo is such a unique structure with 91 steps on each side leading to the top of the temple of Kukulkan (Maya’s snake deity), and when added together along with the top produces no of days(365) in the Mayan calendar year. Also during equinoxes, the noon Sun creates an illusion of a snake crawling down which perfectly aligns with the snakehead on the bottom of the pyramid. There is a Great Ballroom(Mayan sports complex) and several small structures all around the site. It is believed Mayans used advanced maths, physics, and astrology earlier than many other civilizations. I only wished there was more to experience than that.

How did local people treat you?

This is the best part. I was doing my first solo trip and local people made me feel comfortable. I was on the tour bus with a guide who speaks mostly Spanish and there was a woman with her family behind me, she helped me with all the hand signs and a little English she knew while I tried my Spanish from Google Translate. Ha Ha. That was funny. She even helped me with the buffet items to choose from. There are people everywhere who smile and initiate conversations.

What are the food options around Chichen Itza?

I booked a tour from Cancun and they took us to a buffet for lunch halfway through the journey which major tour agencies do. Honestly, it was so bad that I filled myself with watermelons. Also, there are very few popular restaurants around Chichen Itza, one among them is Hacienda Chichen which serves decent food. I would recommend bringing packed food from the hotel while visiting Chichen Itza.

How to reach Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza is about 200 KM from Cancun and 3 hours by bus. There are several rental car agencies in Mexico but tour buses are the cheapest, safest, and most recommended. You won’t have to deal with buying tickets to this popular destination, standing in line, or looking for a guide when a tour is booked.

Insurance is a must when a rental car is booked. Also, make sure you have all travel and car documents for police check-up thru out the journey.

Where did I stay?

Since Chichen Itza can always be covered in a day, I stayed in Hotel Zone, Cancun, and booked a day trip to Chichen Itza. If looking for accommodation around Chichen Itza, Hacienda or Mayaland is renowned.

What and where to shop?

Shops in Chichen Itza are high-priced. To support more local people, shop at Valladolid, a small city on the way to Chichen Itza. This is also a common stopover if a tour is booked from Cancun. Feel free to stroll through the colorful streets and spot an Instagram-worthy colorful house. And when found a pretty shop, grab a vibrant handmade bowl, colorful pot, or locally made decorative potholders.

Is it worth all the money and time?

It can be for once. But I wouldn’t primarily visit Chichen Itza. When combined with Cancun, it can make a wonderful 3-day trip.

Related: Read about Cancun and tips before traveling to Chichen Itza

Any tips for first-time visitors?

Mexico is a safe place, just keep an eye on the surroundings. There are a few things worth considering:

• Always check travel alerts on your country’s embassy website before planning to Mexico.
•  Stay in touristy zones. There are states in Mexico where there can be riots at any time which should be avoided. With that being said, most visited places like Cancun, Chichen Itza, Mexico City, Belize, Guadalajara (This is now trending among cheap and best destinations), and several others are safe at all times.
• It is always best to book a small-sized tour to visit Chichen Itza.
• Avoid street food near archaeological sites. Many people reported being sick after having food around Chichen Itza.
• Avoid driving or walking late at night in remote places.
• Carry cash. It helps (Not full of pockets).
• Dress comfortably and prepare to walk. A lot.
• Always smile and make friends.

Will I do it again?

I would visit Mexico again definitely but maybe not Chichen Itza. There is more to experience in this beautiful country. Tacos and tequila are calling!

Te Veo Pronto!!