Landmark
El Castillo, Chichen Itza
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El Castillo, or the Temple of Kukulcán, is the centerpiece of Chichen Itza, a 30-meter-tall step pyramid built by the Maya between the 9th and 12th centuries. Its four staircases have 91 steps each, totaling 365 with the top platform, representing the solar year. During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the setting sun casts a shadow that creates the illusion of a serpent slithering down the northern staircase, a phenomenon drawing thousands of visitors. The pyramid also features acoustic effects, such as a chirping echo when clapping at the base.
Don't miss
- Observe the equinox shadow serpent phenomenon (March 20–21 and September 22–23)
- Count the 91 steps per side and note the total of 365
- Clap at the base to hear the chirping echo mimicking the quetzal bird
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit El Castillo, Chichen Itza
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inChichen Itza: Self-Guided Tour with Audio Narration & Map4.4★ · 78 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$9 per personSee dates →
Best full dayChichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour4.7★ · 25,222 travelers~12 hoursFree cancellationFrom$42 per personSee dates →
Top ratedChichen Itza from Playa with cenote, Valladolid and Mayan cuisine4.9★ · 811 travelers12–13 hoursFree cancellationFrom$29 per personSee dates →More attractions in Piste