I am here to give you the Chichen-itza Low Down.

The name Chichén Itzá is a Mayan word: CHI (mouth) CHEN (well) and ITZA (of the witch water). The location is believed to have been chosen because there are two large natural sinkholes nearby, which would have provided water year-round. It was also a hub for regional trade. But after centuries of prosperity and absorbing influxes of other cultures, the city met a mysterious end. They say the demise of the city anywhere between AD 1000 and the 1400’s, when people abandoned the city and fled to the jungle, leaving no written record of why they left.

The El Castillo pyramid, which is seen below, has 365 steps – one for each day of the year! They were so thoughtful with everything they did. Each of the four sides has 91 steps; the top platform is the 365th. Many people ask to climb the ancient pyramids but unfortunately it is no longer available.

Where is Chichen Itza? Chichen Itzá is located in Merida, Yucatan.

Which Chichen Itza tour is the best? While I have only taken this one, we loved it!

How much does it cost? It is $232 pesos which converts to $11.32. There are two separate windows so make sure you get BOTH tickets. Also, Chichen Itza is big and can be SUPER hot. Make sure you have/drink lots of water.

Can you climb Chichen Itza? They no longer let people climb Chichen Itza.

Can you get souvenirs in Chichen-Itza? It is CRAZY how many vendors are set up here. They have everything from Mayan calendars to jewelry to hanging wooden monkeys (which I bought) to hammocks. As you walk around, I am sure you’ll find something that catches your attention.

How close is Chichen-itza to Ik Kil Cenote?

We were lucky enough to go on a bus tour which took us from Chelem (near Progresso) to both the Chichen Itza and Ik Kil Cenote. They are probably 15 min apart.

Want to learn more about the ancient pyramids in Mexico? Here is a good place to start!

If you want to see some more of the traveling I’ve done in Mexico you can check out my post on Puerto Morelos , or read my thoughts on Crime in Mexico!

My trip to Mexico was because of my job as a destination elopement photographer!

You can check out some other traveling I have done in both Iceland and Ireland or inside an ice cave!