Chichén Itzá Map | How to Navigate this Mayan City

Navigating your way around Chichén Itzá

The Main Circuit is the most-followed and covers all major monuments in the Great North Platform and the adjoining areas.

Start at El Castillo: The main pyramid is a short walk from the entrance. You can walk all around it, taking a closer look at the architecture and clicking pictures along the way.
Head to the Great Ball Court: From the pyramid, head north to the Great Ball Court, stopping at the Wall of Skulls (Tzompantli) and Platform of Eagles and Jaguars on the way. This path showcases the grisly and warrior-themed carvings.
Temple of the Warriors: Then, east to the Temple of the Warriors and Hall of Thousand Columns. This is a good spot to wander among the columns and possibly catch some shade, especially if you’re visiting around midday.
Head back to the El Castillo: Loop west toward El Castillo and go north to visit the Sacred Cenote. The trail to the cenote is about 5-10 minutes through the trees. You can peer down into the vast sinkhole from the rim.

This route leads to the site’s lesser-visited, but fascinating, southern complex.

From El Castillo, head south on a path towards the Observatory (El Caracol) and the Las Monjas (Nunnery) Complex. Along this route, you’ll pass structures like the Red House (Chichan-Chob) and Akab Dzib.
The Observatory one of this circuit’s highlights, with its circular tower visible from afar. You can spend some time walking around to get a sense of its futuristic design, impressive for its time!
Next to it, Las Monjas and adjoining buildings have very detailed stone mosaics (distinct from the Toltec style up north). There are informative signs describing the Maya hieroglyphs and motifs.
You’ll also find the Church (La Iglesia) in this vicinity - a small temple with elaborate carvings of the rain god Chaac.
A bit farther is the Akab Dzib and a smaller cenote (Xtoloc Cenote), which are often overlooked and hidden spots.

Recently, the site opened up a new route you can access if you’re on a guided tour. It’s called the Initial Series or Chichén Viejo.

This circuit will take you beyond the Observatory to ruins like the Initial Series Group (named for an inscription), which includes structures such as the Temple of Phalli, Temple of the Owls, and Temple of the Monkeys. These structures are less restored, giving a raw archaeological feel.
This circuit might take an extra hour and require more walking on rough paths, but it’s a unique experience if you’re visiting the site again.

Visitor facilities at Chichén Itzá

Parking: If you’re driving to the site, you’ll find paid parking near the entrance at $100 MXN. While there are other parking lots on the outskirts, they may not be very convenient.
Restrooms: You’ll find restrooms located near the site’s main entrance.
Souvenir shops: You’ll find a selection of shops to buy memorabilia near the entrance or just as you’re on your way inside.
Lockers: You’ll find lockers at the site’s entrance to store backpacks or other items, ideal if you’re in transit. Renting a locker will cost you about $40 MXN. Keep in mind that they will be checked for drones, tripods, and other such equipment.

Tips for your visit to Chichén Itzá

Make sure to carry adequate cash during your visit. The Mexican Peso is ideal if you want to shop for souvenirs, as most vendors don’t accept credit cards. Carrying smaller denominations also makes tipping easier.
The site has minimal shade, and the Yucatán sun can be relentless, so make sure to keep yourself hydrated and carry sun protection.
While you’ll find several vendors selling souvenirs once you enter the site, these can often be expensive. Your best bet would be to make your purchases from the vendors at the parking lot.

Book Chichén Itzá tickets & tours

From Cancun: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Lunch

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

12 hr.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Meals included

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Chichén Itzá Guided Walking Tour

Free cancellation

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1 hr. 30 min.

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Chichén Itzá Skip-the-Line Ticket

Free cancellation

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Flexible duration

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From Riviera Maya: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Lunch

Free cancellation

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12 hr.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Meals included

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Chichén Itzá Early Access Guided Tour

Free cancellation

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9 hr. - 10 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Meals included

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Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam & Cenote Tour with Lunch

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

12 hr.

Transfers included

Meals included

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Frequently asked questions about the Chichén Itzá map

How big is the Chichén Itzá site?

The remains of Chichén Itzá are spread across an area of about 4-5 square kilometers.

How many routes can a visitor follow to tour the site?

There are three major routes you can follow on your tour of the site. These are the main circuit, the secondary circuit, and the Chichén Viejo circuit. The Chichén Viejo circuit, unlike the first two, is only open to those on a guided tour.

What are some of the site’s key highlights?

Some of Chichén Itzá’s key highlights include the El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán), the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors and Thousand Columns, and the El Caracol (Observatory).

Is parking available at the site?

Yes, you can park your car at the site for a fee of about $100 MXN. Alternatively, if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of parking and have more time, you can book a day trip from Cancun to Chichén Itzá or from Playa del Carmen.

Where are the souvenir shops located?

You’ll find souvenir shops at the site’s parking lot and right inside the main entrance. However, if you’re looking for a bargain, the ones at the parking lot will be your best bet.