Categories: Mexico

Chichén Itzá and Kukulkán Nights – A Most Impressive Mayan City

Chichén Itzá, a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World is definitely one of my favorite bucket list destinations. I have a list of world heritage sites I am trying to check off. Even though this is a long trip from Cancun, about 2 1/2 hours, it is worth it. This ancient Mayan city deep in the Yucatán, was built over 1500 years ago. The grounds are massive, covering nearly two miles in the main areas.

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Chichén Itzá

The main pyramid El Castillo (Kukulkán ) stands 98 feet tall. Along the property you’ll find the great ball court, where they played sporting events. Saying goes the losers were beheaded. The Temple of the Warriors is quite impressive, as is The Thousand Columns Group.

Take the time to explore the cenote nearby where the Mayans got their fresh water supply from. There is not a lot of shade so bring plenty of water and sunscreen. I brought an umbrella, it was that hot. We chose to book these excursions from our hotel. You can choose to book a tour through your hotel, rent a car or take public transportation.

We have been to Chichén Itzá during the day and it is spectacular, but I highly recommend the Kukulkán Nights Light and Sound Show. You arrive in the evening, as the crowds of people are leaving and the heat is a little less intense. Just after sunset the pyramids are transformed. A light and sound show is projected onto the main pyramid and tells the story of the Mayan civilization.

Kukulkán Nights

The show lasts about 30 minutes. It is an experience like no other. After the show there is time to walk around the grounds again as the other ruins are lit up as well. This will definitely be a memorable trip. The light show tickets are 650 MXN ($38) to 708 MXN ($41). These can be combined with excursions to include the city of Valladolid and swimming in the cenote.