Take a day trip from Cancun to visit the remarkable ruins of Chichen Itza. This well-preserved site was the ancient capital of the Mayan Empire during the 11th and 12th centuries, and it is now the most important archaeological site in the region. The UNESCO World Heritage Foundation declared Chichen Itza a World Heritage site in 1988. Chichen Itza's El Castillo was also named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Visit this sacred area and explore the remaining pyramids. The city was based on worshipping their many gods, and the buildings you will tour include the Temple of a Thousand Columns, the ball court, and the famous Pyramid of Kukulkan. The remains of the Temple of a Thousand Columns include the pillars of sculpted soldiers. The ball court was known as the place for all the sporting events. The mysterious and unknown architecture of this building allows sound to travel from one side of the 545 foot stadium to the other, a feat that still baffles builders to this day. The Pyramid of Kukulkan, or El Castillo, is the most famous structure of these ruins. Standing 75 feet tall, this massive structure dominates the center of the area. It was built in honor of the feathered serpent, Kukulkan, with some relation to agricultural rituals.
Your bilingual tour guide is extremely knowledgeable and will share valuable information at every step of the tour. Along with admissions to the stops, you will be served a buffet during your trip.
After your tour of the ruins, you will have the unique experience of swimming in a cenote. This is a natural rock and water formation. It is created by caved-in limestone, which, in turn, reveals underground water. The crystal clear blue waters are a definite sight to see. On your way back, enjoy a panoramic tour of the colonial city of Valladolid. See the ruins of the great Mayan civilization and swim underground in crystal blue waters on this action packed Cancun day trip.