A magical night in broad daylight
It is the arrival of autumn, and not even the most far-sighted will be able to avoid the massive arrival in Chichen Itza of thousands and thousands of visitors from all over the world, attracted by a phenomenon that only occurs during the spring and autumn equinoxes: the descent of the feathered serpent through the pyramid of Kukulcán.
Between 3:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., all eyes will be on the north facade of the great pyramid located in the center of the square. The perfect alignment of this mystical construction with the sun will generate a magical play of light and shadow : seven inverted triangles will shape the body of the feathered serpent, also known as Quetzacoatl by the Toltecs. The triangles will advance down the stairway towards the stone serpent head at the bottom, at which point, according to Mayan culture, everything is flooded with positive energy . As the sun goes down, the triangles disappear in reverse order. Many believe that the serpent descends from the sky in the direction of the great sacred cenote where the Mayans made sacrifices and offerings to their God.
In addition to being the main center of Kukulcan worship , the Pyramid - baptized by the Spaniards as Castillo- it worked as a sundial , further proof that the Mayans were great architects and astronomers who controlled time with exact calendars. Each stone of this 12th century construction is full of meaning . Its nine heights symbolize the levels of the underworld and the nine lords of the night; its 365 steps represent the days of the solar year 'haab'; and its four facades refer to the cardinal points. Until 2006 it was possible to climb to its top. Currently, you have to travel to other archaeological sites, such as Cobá, to be able to climb a Mayan pyramid.
All of Chichen Itzá is built in honor of the serpent, the God Kukulcán.
The entrance to Chichen Itza costs between 12 and 14 dollars. Something more if you hire a guide to help you unveil the mysteries of this magical place. Worth. The visit to this archaeological center that occupies more than 15 square kilometers lasts approximately three hours. Hence the importance of carrying comfortable clothes and shoes. And water, lots of water to beat the heat. The venue closes its doors at 5:00 p.m., but not permanently. Starting at 7:00 p.m., the ruins of Chichen Itza are transformed into the Night of the Mayans, a light and sound show that narrates the discovery and history of this ancient city. The perfect finishing touch to a magical day.
Where to sleep in Chichen Itza
For most tourists who visit the Yucatan, Chichen Itza is often a lightning visit. The most attractive accommodations are in Merida (130 kilometers away) where old Haciendas have been converted into hotels; or in Rivera Maya (three hours by car) where the most luxurious Caribbean resorts abound.
For those looking for a different, quieter way of traveling, the nearby town of piste offers interesting lodgings from which it is possible to walk to the ruins of Chichen Itza. Hotels full of charm which also offer us valuable time to discover other attractions in the area: from observing exotic birds, visit cities as authentic as Valladolid, or take a dip in Ik-Kil, one of the most beautiful cenotes in Yucatan.
One of the most spectacular accommodations to enjoy the autumn equinox
Archaeological Villas Chichen Itza Surrounded by exuberant vegetation inhabited by exotic birds, we find the Hotel Villas Chichen Itza . An oasis of tranquility a few steps from the ancient Mayan city. Its 45 rooms are decorated in a traditional Mexican style full of bright colors. Among its tropical gardens it is possible to find authentic Mayan ruins.
Prices start at $59 usd per night plus taxes in single or double occupancy (about 45 euros).
Hacienda Chichen & Yaxkin Spa Just a five-minute walk from this hotel, you find yourself at the southeast entrance to the Chichen Itza ruins, an entrance that hardly anyone uses. Colonial-style, this Hacienda-turned-hotel offers rustic-style rooms with patios and hammocks, and Mayan-themed headboards in the bedrooms. Also, the Hacienda has a luxurious eco spa, the Yaxkin Spa, with holistic treatments and massages based on ancient Mayan medicine.
The price for sleeping one night in this Hacienda is $169 usd, about 130 euros (plus taxes).
Hotel Oka'an ** Hotel Oka'an **, whose name in Mayan means 'where the road begins', is a good place to start our trip to Chichen Itza. Located a few minutes from the ruins, this accommodation offers a luxurious spa with interesting relaxation treatments. A good plan to end the day and regain strength.
Prices from 1,200 Mexican pesos per night (about 70 euros).
To rest after the 'Mayan rite'