Chichen Itza Vacations

Many people take Chichen Itza vacations in order to experience the grandeur and mystery of the ancient Mayan culture by visiting the ruins of one of their settlements. Chichen Itza is the most visited site on the Yucatan Peninsula; its close proximity to Cancun makes it a popular day trip. If you plan on visiting Chichen Itza, be sure you get there as early as possible since the site often becomes quite crowded later in the day.

A Few Highlights of Chichen Itza vacations
Those who have studied the site agree that you need two days to fully appreciate everything it has to offer. During Chichen Itza vacations most visitors start with the Pyramid of Kukulkan; this impressive edifice rises 79 feet above the jungle floor and demonstrates the architectural skill of the ancient Mayans. It is possible to climb one of two sets of restored steps to the top of the pyramid; it is a steep climb but you will be rewarded with an unparalleled view of the the surrounding jungle.

The ball court is another popular stop on Chichen Itza vacations. This game played by two opposing Mayan teams vaguely resembles modern day soccer. The object of the game was for players to get a ball through stone hoops at the end of the court, touching it only with their elbows, wrists, and hips. Carvings on the walls around the court depict players having their heads lopped off; it is not clear if this game was used as a method of choosing human sacrifices or settling disputes.

Another essential stop on a Chichen Itza vacation is the site's sacred cenote. Cenotes are limstone sinkholes filled with water. As the Mayan's most important source of water they held great religious significance; gifts of treasure and human sacrifices were thrown into the cenote in times of drought in order to secure much needed rainfall.

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