Chichen Itza was a Mayan city on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Although it is an important tourist attraction. This archaeological site includes some important buildings around the main one “El Castillo” which makes Chichen Itza great for exploring.
Sometimes when we decide to know a new place, we have no idea how to start planning our trip. Many times, we do not like to hire a tour because they are limited or are not what we expect. However, there are many places where it is necessary to take a tour because, without it, the experience will not be the same.
Among the most visited places are the wonders of the world, today I will talk about one of them in which you cannot miss a guided tour. And we are going to talk about what is it like to visit Chichen Itza, and how is the experience.
Going to Chichen Itza is not only to look at the imposing Mayan city but is also to discover the history that exists behind this empire. When you arrive at Chichen Itza, you will automatically feel different, ready to know the Mayan Culture.
The main attraction of this archeological site is the main pyramid. It is wonderful and imposing. It is the most representative icon of Chichen Itza, here you can take very cool photos and contemplate the architectural beauty of this temple.
The Ball Game at Chichen Itza
There is one activity that was very important to Mayans. And it was “The Ball Game” when you visit Chichen Itza you will see that the walls of its constructions reveals the story of the Mayan ball game, which they called Pok-ta-Pok, due to the noise produced by the ball when it was hit by the players or hit the floor. Before the game, they prayed to Hunahpú, a Mayan god who was sacrificed after losing a game.
The players had to kick the ball with their hips, elbows, knees, and forearms and not let it drop because that indicated a ‘bad sign’ and once the ball passed through the rings on the walls, the game was over. You will get impressed as soon as you know the place where they used to play.
The Mayas were great, they had knowledge in astronomy and they practiced it in one of the buildings in Chichen Itza, it is called the Snail and it is one of the prettiest. This building is an observatory where the Mayans followed the passage of the sun and the moon.
After knowing this incredible site, you will surely want to take a souvenir of one of the wonders of the world. Do not worry in the archeological zone you can find beautiful handicrafts made by local people.
Cenotes
In addition to knowing the archaeological site, you can also visit a cenote, but the most important thing is to be able to swim in it. If you have never had the opportunity to know one, you cannot miss it! It is really an experience. The cenotes are large open or closed caverns with crystal clear water. Do not forget your visors because I assure you that you have never seen a blue as beautiful as a cenote.
These holes were sacred to the Mayans, in many of them they offerings were made with precious jewels or even tributes to women or children. One thing you should know is that cenotes are caverns in the ground so, the water is fresh. Jump is the best way to get into a Cenote. Some of these natural pools have free fish spa, so it’s a plus. And if you are lucky you can also find some turtles.
Valladolid
Another stop that you can’t miss is the magic town of Valladolid which is a charming Spanish colonial town in the center of the Yucatán Peninsula. One of the most fascinating aspects about Valladolid is its architecture. Simply walking around its streets and exploring the buildings, their façades, windows, walls, is stunning.
The Valladolid colonial Spanish architecture is unmistakable, with its colorful pastel buildings, and the old historic churches dotting the already exquisite town – make sure the check out the Valladolid cathedral! Don’t forget to taste typical ice cream in the main square, and also you should taste a Marquesita is a famous dessert from the Yucatan Peninsula.
Food
Mexican Food is diverse, but Yucatan food is unique and it has many different flavors that probably you haven’t tried before. Yucatan cuisine incorporates several ingredients that are not typical of Mexican cuisine but are of Mayan origin. Wild turkey, deer, quail, and Chaya which is similar to Swiss chard but grows on trees, banana leaves are used not corn husks and add a distinct flavor.
Conchinita Pibil, Poc Chuc Tsi’sk, Kibbe and Sopa de Lima are just one of the most famous dishes of the Yucatan Peninsula that you must try in your visit to Chichen Itza.
Definitely, the Yucatan Peninsula has a lot to offer, among its beautiful cenotes, the great Mayan culture that predominates in the state, and today you can still see it in the local people. All of these things Make Chichen Itza a unique experience that will captivate you.
Why you should take a Chichen Itza tour?
Taking a tour to Chichen Itza is well worth it. You will know one of the most important archeological sites in Mexico and the world. And the best thing is that you will be filled with important historical information of the great Mayan civilization, you will really feel in the past when you discover the imposing constructions of the site. As well as tasting unique and original Yucatecan food, you will not find an equal in the world. In addition, you will not have to worry about transportation, since the tour round transportation is included, so they take you to the door of your hotel.
Extra tips
Some of the things you should not forget during your visit to Chichen Itza is that it is very hot, so it is very advisable that you do not forget to take a sun hat or a cap with you, as well as sunscreen to avoid burns. And please stay hydrated all the time. Do not forget to take many beautiful photos and enjoy every moment in the best wonder of the world!