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Are you considering visiting Chichen Itza on your own? I’ve got all the details you need to know before you go without a tour!
I get it. You want to visit the majestic wonder of the world, Chichen Itza! But you don’t want to stress your bank account or feel like you’re missing out by not joining a guided Chichen Itza tour.
I was in the exact same boat not too long ago! My husband and I were determined to visit Chichen Itza during our recent trip to Mexico.
And of course, we wanted to do it in the most budget-friendly way possible, truly living up to our motto of #SeeTheWorldSaveADollar
So here’s the deal, this article will ensure you’re fully prepared before you go to Chichen Itza on your own in 2024.
How much will it actually cost you? Are there any restrictions you need to know about?
And what are the absolute must-see spots during your self-guided tour of Chichen Itza?
These burning questions are probably on your mind, and I’m here to share our recent first-hand experience and guide you through it all.
With the right preparation and a small dose of adventure, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable experience at this world wonder.
Continue reading for a complete guide on how to visit Chichen Itza on your own.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider driving and factor in tolls and parking.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and the midday sun.
- Dress in lightweight, sun-protective clothing.
- Essential items: Bring cash, bug spray, and water.
- Explore the temples, platforms, and cenote using this self-guided tour.
First things first, let’s talk about the logistics.
Chichen Itza is located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, approximately 95 miles west of Tulum or 125 miles west of Cancun.
If you’re planning to drive to Chichen Itza yourself, it’s essential to factor in the cost of tolls.
It’s important that you have Mexican pesos on hand to pay the toll when driving to Chichen Itza.
During our visit, we made the mistake of not having enough Mexican pesos and found ourselves unable to pay with US dollars.
As a result, we had to pull over and search for someone to exchange our currency with.
Needless to say, it wasn’t the most ideal scenario.
To avoid any inconvenience, I highly recommend exchanging some currency for Mexican pesos before heading on this journey.
Do better than us!
The amount you should set aside for roundtrip toll expenses typically falls within the range of 500 to 1000 Mexican pesos.
That’s pretty broad, I know, but the exact toll fees depend on your starting location and the route you choose.
I recommend using Goole Maps to get a more accurate estimation of toll costs.
Simply input your destination and Google Maps will provide an estimate of the toll costs.
This will help you determine the exact amount you should carry for tolls.
You can also toggle on the “avoid tolls” option when using Google Maps.
However, depending on your starting point, it may not always be possible to completely avoid toll roads.
Take this into consideration when planning your journey.
You’ll also need to budget 80 Mexican pesos for Chichen Itza parking.
Once you’ve parked, get ready to explore! The Chichen Itza entrance fee is 614 Mexican pesos.
Keep in mind that the Chichen Itza ticket price may vary, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the official website before your visit.
US Dollars and other foreign currency are not accepted, so have Mexican pesos on hand.
You can pay with a credit card but that is not always reliable and you’ll need to present identification with the credit card.
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When To Go to Chichen Itza?
Timing is everything when it comes to visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To make the most of your experience and capture stunning photos without the crowds at Chichen Itza, it’s essential to arrive early.
Chichen Itza opens at 8 am and closes at 5 pm, but the last tickets are sold at 4 pm.
Make it a priority to arrive before the tour buses roll in to have a more exclusive experience at this world wonder.
The early wake-up call is definitely worth it. During our visit to the Chichen Itza ruins, we arrived at 9 am.
We managed to beat the crowds and had the opportunity to explore Chichen Itza without the hordes of tourists.
As the late morning and afternoon rolled around, hundreds of visitors started flooding in.
Having those precious moments of uninterrupted exploration in the early hours made all the difference.
So set that alarm clock, get there early, and enjoy Chichen Itza before the rush begins.
Also, of note, every Sunday there is free admission for Mexican citizens and foreigners living in Mexico with proof of identification.
What this means for you - Sundays are likely the most crowded in general.
It might be best to plan your visit to Chichen Itza on a different day of the week.
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What To Wear to Chichen Itza?
As you plan your Chichen Itza adventure, keep in mind that it is located in an area with maximum exposure to sunlight. I’m talkin', no shade.
To protect yourself from the scorching sun, wear light-colored clothing that covers your skin. A wide-brimmed hat is a must-have accessory.
The very first thing I bought when I pulled up to Chichen Itza was a hat for 200 Mexican pesos.
You can either bring your own hat or buy one once you get there to ensure you have some shade during your exploration.
And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking.
Since Chichen Itza experiences hot weather for most of the year (think 90F degrees hot), sunscreen is your best friend.
Protect your beautiful skin from sunburns by applying a generous amount of sunscreen with a high SPF.
If you plan your visit to Chichen Itza during the cooler months of December and January, when temperatures can dip down into the 60s F, consider bringing an extra layer such as a poncho for added comfort.
Always check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure you dress appropriately.
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What To Bring to Chichen Itza?
Now that you know what to wear, let’s discuss what essentials to bring along. Below we'll go through a quick travel checklist.
1. CASH
Make sure to bring enough cash with you.
You’ll find numerous vendors at Chichen Itza, and bargaining is a common practice.
If you’re eyeing a souvenir, be prepared to negotiate the price.
Vendors often sell similar items, so don’t hesitate to explore your options and find the best deal.
Remember to stick to the price you have in mind and remain consistent.
If you’re patient and persistent, you might end up with a great item at a fraction of the initial asking price.
The initial asking price is significantly inflated, specifically targeting tourists like yourself.
When we were browsing for souvenirs, we found an item we really liked.
However, the seller initially quoted a price of $450 Mexican pesos, which was more than what we were willing to pay.
It was negotiation time. We managed to strike a deal and purchased the same item for just $50 Mexican pesos.
This price was much closer to what a local would typically pay for the same item, and it felt like a fair transaction.
You’d be surprised how much you can save by engaging in a friendly negotiation.
It’s a good way to strike a balance between budget-consciousness and supporting the local community.
So don’t hesitate to haggle and find a price that works for both you and the vendor. It’s all part of the shopping experience at Chichen Itza.
2. BUG SPRAY
Chichen Itza is located in an area abundant with mosquitoes.
These pesky insects can quickly turn your visit into an itchy nightmare.
Arm yourself with insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay and ensure a more pleasant experience.
3. WATER
Hydration is key! The sun at noon shines directly overhead, intensifying the heat.
Stay hydrated throughout your adventure by carrying a water bottle with you.
It’s essential to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Trust me, you don’t want to pass out in the middle of exploring this incredible ancient city.
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What To See at Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza is one of the new seven wonders of the world and for good reason.
The detailed architecture is way before its time.
When visiting the Chichen Itza ruins, there are several incredible sights that you shouldn’t miss.
To make the most of your visit and gain deeper insights into these fascinating structures, consider downloading a self-guided audio tour.
For under $10 USD, the self-guided audio tour gives you access to detailed audio narration, informative text, and a live GPS map, enhancing your experience and helping you discover the hidden wonders of Chichen Itza.
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Temples
The Temple of Kukulcan also known as the Castle (El Castilo) steals the spotlight at Chichen Itza.
It’s the iconic pyramid that instantly captures your attention.
Prepare to be amazed by its intricate architecture and fascinating history.
This temple is a symmetrical masterpiece, featuring 91 steps on each of its four sides with one additional step at the very top.
That’s a total of 365 steps, representing every single day in the year.
But here’s the coolest part: when you clap your hands in front of the stairs, the sound of a sacred quetzal bird echoes through the air.
Of course, Chichen Itza is not just about the Temple of Kukulcan.
You’ll come across several other temples, each with its unique charm and story.
Here are some others that you don’t want to miss out on:
- Temple of the Tables (Templo de las Mesas)
- Temple of the Beared Man (Templo del Hombre Barbudo)
- Temple of the Warriors (Temple de los Guerreros)
- The Nunnery (Las Monjas)
- The Snail Observatory Temple (El Caracol)
- Temple of Xtoloc (Temple de Xtoloc)
- Thompson’s Temple (Palace of Ahau Balam Kauil)
- Osario Pyramid (El Osario)
Every structure has its own tale to tell.
You can still catch snippets of their explanations and gain insights into the historical and cultural significance of each site by positioning yourself within earshot of the guided tours passing by.
Or, if snooping is not your thing, you could download a self guided audio tour for less than $10 USD.
By exploring Chichen Itza on your own, you can go at your own pace and delve into the details that captivate you the most.
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Great Ball Court
My husband used to play basketball in college so one of the first things he wanted to check out at Chichen Itza was the great ball court (Gran Juego de Pelota).
As we took a look around we learned more about the game.
This massive court was used for a unique Mesoamerican sport that resembles basketball.
Players were sacrificed through decapitation when they lost this game, and sometimes even if they won the game because it was considered an honor to be sacrificed.
I guess you could say “Ball was life.”
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Platforms
Chichen Itza boasts several remarkable platforms that are worth exploring.
Visit the Skull Platform (El Tzompantli, Plataforma de los Craneos) to witness a chilling display of skulls.
These skulls served as a warning to intruders, reminding them of the consequences of challenging Chichen Itza’s might.
Another impressive platform is the Platform of Eagles and Jaguars (Plataforma de Aguilas y Jaguares), adorned with intricate carvings depicting these majestic creatures.
Lastly, don’t forget to check out the Platform of Venus (Plataforma de Venus), which offers a glimpse into the celestial knowledge of the ancient Mayans.
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Sacred Cenote
The Sacred Cenote (Cenote Sagrada) is a natural sinkhole of great importance to the Mayan civilization.
While swimming is not allowed in this cenote, you can still admire its beauty and learn about its significance in the Mayan religious practices.
If you’re looking for a great cenote experience, check out Cenote Oxman which is not too far from Chichen Itza.
We took a 40-minute drive to Cenote Oxman in Valladolid after visiting Chichen Itza. It cost only 150 Mexican pesos to enter Cenote Oxman.
You can watch our full experience below.
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Marketplace
The Marketplace (El Mercado) is a vibrant hub that offers a wide array of traditional crafts, jewelry, textiles, and more.
Remember to negotiate prices and find that perfect memento to commemorate your adventure.
The Group of the Thousand Columns (grupo de las mil columnas) is right across from the marketplace.
It’s a captivating sight to see and provides a glimpse into the architectural wonders of the ancient Mayans.
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FAQs on Visiting Chichen Itza on Your Own
What are the Chichen Itza opening hours?
- Chichen Itza hours are from 8 am to 5 pm. The last tickets are sold at 4 pm.
How much time to visit Chichen Itza?
- The average time spent at Chichen Itza is around 3 hours.
Can you go to the Mayan ruins without a tour?
- Absolutely! You can visit Chichen Itza on your own without the need for a guided tour.
Do you have to cover up at Chichen Itza?
- There is no strict dress code at Chichen Itza, but it is advisable to wear light-colored and breathable clothing that protects from the sun.
Is there a fee to enter to Chichen Itza archaeological zone?
- Yes, there is an entrance fee. We paid 533 Mexican pesos, but you can check for any updates or changes in prices before your visit on the official website.
Do I need bug spray at Chichen Itza?
- Definitely! Chichen Itza is in a region known for mosquitos, so it’s highly recommended to bring and apply bug spray before exploring the site.
What not to do at Chichen Itza?
- Climbing the pyramids is strictly prohibited to preserve the ancient structures. Swimming in the cenote is not allowed either.
What structures can be found at Chichen Itza?
- Temple of Kukulcan, Temple of the Tables, Temple of the Bearded Man, Temple of the Warriors, The Nunnery, The Snail Observatory Temple, Temple of Xtoloc, Thompson’s Temple, Osario Pyramid, the Great Ball Court, Skull Platform, Platform of Venus, Platform of Eagles and Jaguars, and the Group of the Thousand Columns.
Can you still climb the pyramid at Chichen Itza?
- No, climbing pyramids at Chichen Itza is prohibited.
Can you swim in the cenote at Chichen Itza?
- No, swimming in the Sacred Cenote at Chichen Itza is not allowed.
Why was Chichen Itza abandoned?
- This remains a mystery, but it’s believed that a combination of political unrest, ecological changes, and the decline of Mayan civilization played a role.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Chichen Itza On Your Own
Visiting Chichen Itza on your own is not only possible but also highly worthwhile.
Now that you’re equipped with the essential details including the best times to visit, the must-see sights, and even an estimate of the costs involved - you can plan your trip with confidence.
After reading this article, you know the best way to visit Chichen Itza on your own, and you can explore at your own pace to make the most of every moment.
Don’t forget to put your negotiation skills to good use at the marketplace, where you can snag the perfect deal on souvenirs to bring back home.
As you explore the temples and platforms, prepare to be amazed by the ancient history and architecture.
From the iconic Temple of Kukulcan to the fascinating Skull Platform, each site holds a unique story.
To make the most of your visit, remember to arrive early to beat the crowds, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, stay hydrated throughout the day, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of this world-wonder experience.
If you found this article helpful, be sure to share it with your favorite travelers and pin it to your travel boards on Pinterest!
I visited in 2019 & everything you’ve said was true to back then also.
The drive is sooo lonnng, I did the guided tour & kept waking up thinking “are we there yet?” LOL!
I can definitely see that you covered more ground doing it by yourselves so this is something for me to consider. Thank you!
Lol, sometimes doing it yourself is much more worth it. Thanks for your support and for reading the blog!