If you’re traveling to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, a trip to Chichén Itzá is a must.
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the ancient Mayan city and UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect side or day trip from Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or Tulum.
Fortunately, visiting Chichén Itzá on your own without a guide or tour group is still possible in 2021.
Take a look at these tips and answers to frequently asked questions in order to plan your visit to the iconic archeological ruins!
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Chichén Itzá Basics
What structures can be found at Chichén Itzá?
- Temple of Kukulcán/ The Castle (El Castillo) Pyramid
- Great Ball Court (Gran Juego de Pelota)
- Skull Platform (El Tzompantli, Plataforma de los Cráneos)
- Platform of Eagles and Jaguars (Plataforma de Águilas y Jaguares)
- Platform of Venus (Platform de Venus)
- Temple of the Tables (Templo de las Mesas)
- Temple of the Bearded Man (El Templo del Hombre Barbudo)
- Sacred Cenote (Cenote Sagrado)
- Temple of the Warriors (Templo de los Guerreros)
- Group of the Thousand Columns (Grupo de las Mil Columnas)
- Thompson’s Temple (Palace of Ahau Balam Kauil)
- Marketplace (El Mercado)
- Osario Pyramid (El Osario)
- Temple of Xtoloc
- Red House (Casa Colorada)
- The Nunnery (Las Monjas)
- The Snail Observatory Temple (El Caracol)
- Old Chichen (Chichén Viejo)
- Caves of Balankanche (Gruta de Balankanche)
FAQ About Visiting Chichén Itzá on Your Own
Here are some of the most common questions regarding visiting Chichén Itzá. As with all things— especially in the COVID era— accessibility, rules, and fees are always changing so be sure to verify details for yourself prior to your trip for the best experience possible.
Can you visit Chichén Itzá on your own?
Yes, it’s not required to book a private tour or guide.
In fact, many travelers choose to rent a car and drive themselves to the various sightseeing locations around the Yucatan for a more flexible schedule.
Although hiring a local tour guide may be helpful if you’re looking for in-depth information about the history behind the site, it’s not necessary to explore the archeological grounds.
How much does it cost to go to Chichén Itzá?
As of March 2021, the Chichén Itzá general entrance fee is 533 MXN.
Do note that the total fee is paid in two separate payments (federal and state) and also at different windows.
Can you still climb the pyramid at Chichén Itzá?
Unfortunately, access up the El Castillo Temple of Kukulkan was closed in 2006 after a woman fell to her death.
The pyramid steps are roped off and visitors are only allowed to view it from the outside.
How much time do you need at Chichén Itzá?
On average, 3 hours is usually enough time to see Chichén Itzá.
Depending on your sightseeing style (i.e. if you just want to take a quick look around or if you want to learn the history of every feature), you might stay between 2-4 hours.
Can you swim in the cenote at Chichén Itzá?
No, you cannot enter Chichén Itzá’s Sacred Cenote (Cenote Sagrado).
You can, however, swim in Cenote Ik Kil, which is located just an eight minute drive from Chichén Itzá and a popular stop for those visiting the ancient Mayan city.
Is Chichén Itzá open during COVID?
Yes, you can still visit Chichén Itzá as long as you follow their COVID guidelines. This includes wearing a face mask inside the archeological zone and keeping six feet from others.
Sadly, tourists not adhering to face mask rules have caused officials to close the site temporarily such as during Holy Week (April 1-4).
There are also limitations in place restricting the number of visitors allowed inside the grounds at a time and a cap on how many people can be together in a tour group (10).
Certain structures and special access hours may also be limited or suspended.
It should go without saying that if you do choose to travel at this time, please be respectful of the local health regulations and be a responsible visitor.
Hours of Operation
Chichén Itzá is open daily between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with last access at 4 p.m.
Keep in mind that some sites inside the grounds may close at 4 p.m.
Tips for Visiting Chichén Itzá Solo
Bring cash
Although you might be able to pay the entrance fee by card, in my experience in Mexico, I’ve found that it’s better to always have cash on hand as technical difficulties with card payment machines occur quite often.
There’s also no shortage of vendors at the site to purchase food, drinks, or souvenirs from, and having pesos is the easiest way to ensure that you can buy things quickly without worrying about getting ripped off from a bad conversion rate or withdrawing cash from a sketchy ATM.
Go early
If you want to avoid the busiest time of day, plan on visiting Chichén Itzá as soon as it opens.
By around 10 or 11 a.m., tour buses start to arrive and that’s when it begins to get crowded.
Visiting early in the morning also means you’ll be able to enjoy the sights while it’s not blazing hot out!
Check the weather forecast
While the weather is often unpredictable, checking the forecast can give you a better idea of how hot or cold it’ll be when you’re visiting so that you can dress appropriately for your visit.
I just assumed it would be extremely hot during my trip to Chichén Itzá as that had been the case at the Tulum and Coba Ruins, but to my surprise, it was so cool when I went to Chichén Itzá that I had to buy a poncho to stay warm!
Wear comfortable shoes
Chichén Itzá is very large and you’ll need to walk a lot between the structures.
Make sure you’re wearing a pair of comfy shoes that you don’t mind getting dusty.
Bring a hat and sunscreen
Chances are that the sun will be very strong and hot when you visit.
There’s little to no shade around and most of the grounds are exposed to direct sunlight, so be prepared with appropriate head coverings and protection.
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