Chichen Itza - One of the new 7 Wonders of the World

Think of your bucket list, a big list of things to do before you die. Some are dreams of what you want to do and some just have to be done! When going on holiday, I create a mini bucket list of things to do while I’m there. While visiting mexico, I knew that my number one spot was filled for visiting Chichen Itza!

        I was so excited to begin exploring Mexico’s mysterious history by walking the paths and stairs of the Mayan capital, Chichen Itza. In the heart of the Yucatan jungle is this great Mayan city, one of Seven Wonders of the World; still enriched with ancient culture and heritage. 

     

I must admit, travelling from Cancun, the three-hour journey in near 40-degree heat was very uncomfortable. But in the end, it was worth standing on the sacred ground, you could feel the memories and history of the Mayan people. Surrounded by ruins of enormous stone buildings (all materials of which moved by hand). Mysteries and wonder of those who had such impressive numerical and astronomical intellect; we can still see today in the form of temples and ruins.

     If you are to go on a tour, you will have someone guide you and tell you all of the details you have to know, and then you will have some time alone. The big fascination was revolving around solar years; precious stones such as gold were left at the cenote as offerings to gods, hoping they will provide rain for harvesting. El Castillo (also known as the Pyramid of Kukulkán) displays a wonder that can be seen twice a year, at the equinoxes occurring in spring and fall. Light and shadow create a serpent, moving down the stairs in the form of rain god Kukulkán.

     When you visit the pyramid, place yourself a short distance away (about 20 yards or so) and clap! You can hear the sound of the native quetzal bird repelling acoustically from the pyramid. Be aware that climbing to the top of the Pyramid is not allowed, as it used to be. 

    Your overall experience will be great; but bring lots of water, because it’s a long tedious walk back to the entrance when you’re there… oh and don’t forget to bring your camera, of course!

Location: Yucatan Jungle

Entrance Fee : 111 pesos 

Opening times : Between 9 am and 5 pm

Light and sound show : Every night, at 7 pm during fall and winter; 8 pm during spring and summer.