Spend the day exploring the wonders of the ancient Yucatan with a visit to the spectacular ruins of Chichen Itza and a refreshing swim in a sinkhole pool known as a cenote. Located some 150 kilometers inland from Progreso, Chichen Itza emerged as the most important ceremonial center of the ancient Maya on the Yucatan peninsula. The combination of traditional Maya building techniques and styles, including alignment with astronomical events, with elements incorporated from the Toltec culture of Mexico’s central highlands factor into its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The excavating areas are expansive, covering 6.5 square kilometers. As you walk around, your guide will explain the history and iconography of such structures as the Temple of the Warriors, the ball court, the circular observatory called El Caracol (the snail) and the impressive Pyramid of Kukulkan. Also known as El Castillo (the Castle), this pyramid has 365 steps on which sun and shadows famously create the illusion of a moving serpent during the spring and fall equinoxes.
From Chichen Izta, you’ll travel to a nearby cenote – a sinkhole that forms a natural pool linked to the Yucatan’s elaborate system of underground rivers and waters. Cool off in the clear waters with a refreshing swim, then relax over a delicious lunch of regional specialties at the open-air restaurant.
Experience the wonders of Mexico’s Yucatan at the site of an ancient Maya city and at an underground swimming hole.