What to do after visiting Chichen Itza

If you have the expectation of knowing Chichen Itza you should know that this archaeological zone is not close to the Riviera Maya, just getting to Chichen Itza will take you between 3 to 2 hours depending on whether you are in Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Tulum.

So, you should at least have an estimate of the time of

Transportation one way: 3 hours
Visit to Chichen Itza: 2-3 hours
Return transportation: 3 hours

If you leave, for example, at 08:00 a.m., you will be back at 5, so it is very difficult for you to do another activity, which is why a good idea is to combine Chichen Itza with some other attraction that is in its surroundings.

The earlier you leave, the more time you will have to visit other places

This area of Yucatán, near Chichen Itza, has several interesting places and since you made the effort and expense to go there, take the opportunity to get to know them.

Although this is not a detailed list, these are some of the most emblematic places

Get to know Valladolid

Visit the charming colonial city of Valladolid, located just a few kilometers from Chichen Itza. Enjoy its colonial architecture, explore the historic center, visit the Cathedral of San Gervasio and try the delicious Yucatecan food in its restaurants.

Valladolid, in the state of Yucatan, Mexico, is known to be a beautiful place for several reasons:

Colonial architecture: Valladolid preserves an impressive set of Spanish colonial architecture. Its historic center features cobbled streets, colorful facades, beautiful squares, and a host of historic buildings, such as the Cathedral of San Gervasio and the Church of San Gervasio. These architectural elements provide a special charm and a feeling of traveling in time.

Cenotes: The Valladolid region is famous for its cenotes, which are natural formations of fresh water. Valladolid is located near several impressive cenotes, such as Cenote Dzitnup and Cenote Zací. These natural beauties offer the opportunity to swim in crystal clear waters surrounded by exuberant vegetation and stalactites.

Strategic location: Valladolid is an excellent starting point to explore other popular destinations in the region, such as Chichen Itza, one of the New Wonders of the World. It is also close to other important archaeological sites, such as Ek Balam and Coba etc.

Culture and gastronomy: Valladolid offer an authentic experience of the Yucatecan culture. The local inhabitants are friendly and welcoming, and the city is known for its rich culinary tradition. You can try typical dishes such as cochinita pibil, salbutes, panuchos and poc chuc, among others, and enjoy cultural festivals and local events.

check this video

Ek Balam

Head to the archaeological site of Ek Balam, which is located approximately 30 kilometers from Chichen Itza. Here you can admire the impressive main structure, known as the Acropolis, and explore the remains of ancient Mayan constructions.
What to do after visiting Chichen Itza

Ek Balam is an archaeological site located in the state of Yucatán, Mexico, approximately 30 kilometers north of Chichen Itza. The name Ek Balam means "black jaguar" in the Mayan language. This ancient Mayan ceremonial center was an important city during the Late Classic period, reaching its height between AD 700 and 1000.

Ek Balam is known for its impressive main structure, known as the Acropolis. This structure stands out for its imposing size and detailed decoration. At the top of the Acropolis stands a temple that offers a panoramic view of the archaeological site and the surrounding jungle.

In addition to the Acropolis, in Ek Balam you can find other structures and buildings, such as the Great Plaza, the Ball Court, palaces and smaller plazas. Tombs have also been discovered at the site, revealing valuable information about the burial practices and social hierarchy of the ancient Maya civilization.

What makes Ek Balam special is the quality and state of conservation of its sculptures and decorations. You can admire carved stelae, friezes with detailed reliefs and ornamental figures representing deities and mythological characters.

Ek Balam offers visitors the chance to explore a less crowded archaeological site compared to Chichen Itza, allowing for a more intimate and peaceful experience. In addition, the natural environment that surrounds Ek Balam is impressive, with lush jungle and a sense of discovery at every turn.

If you are interested in Mayan history and culture, Ek Balam is a destination that you cannot miss during your visit to the Yucatan region.

checa this video from Ekbalam

Cenote Suytun

The Suytun cenote is a natural wonder located near the town of Valladolid, in the state of Yucatan, Mexico. It is located approximately 10 kilometers east of Valladolid and about a 45-minute drive from Chichen Itza.
What to do after visiting Chichen Itza

The Suytun cenote is known for its impressive concrete platform that extends over the turquoise waters of the cenote. This platform creates a spectacular and photogenic sight, with sunlight filtering through an opening in the roof of the cenote, illuminating the water and creating a magical atmosphere.

The cenote itself is an underground cavity filled with fresh water. The formation of this cenote is due to the collapse of a limestone roof, creating a natural well. Its crystalline waters invite you to swim and cool off in a natural and serene environment.

In addition to enjoying the cenote itself, the place has nature trails that allow you to explore the surrounding vegetation and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings. There are also areas to rest and relax, perfect for enjoying a picnic or simply admiring the tranquility of the place.

The Suytun cenote is a popular visit for tourists who want to experience the natural beauty of the cenotes of the Yucatan region. It is a perfect place to connect with nature, enjoy a refreshing swim and capture impressive photos.

It is important to mention that, being a tourist attraction, there is an entrance fee to access the Suytun cenote. In addition, it is recommended to respect the rules and regulations established to preserve and protect this fragile natural ecosystem.

In summary, the Suytun cenote is a fascinating destination that combines the natural beauty of the cenotes with a unique wooden platform, creating a memorable experience for visitors. It is an ideal place to connect with nature, relax and enjoy the magic of the cenotes in Yucatan.

But since an image says more than a thousand words here is a video of Suytun

Hubiku Cenote

The Hubiku cenote is known for its impressive natural beauty. It is located in an underground cave with crystal clear waters and fascinating rock formations. The light that filters from above creates an incredible visual effect and a magical atmosphere.
What to do after visiting Chichen Itza

Water activities: The Hubiku cenote offers various water activities to enjoy. You can swim in the cool, clear waters of the cenote, which is especially refreshing during the hot Yucatan days. You can also venture snorkeling to explore the aquatic life and submerged rock formations.

Jumping platform: If you are an adrenaline lover, the Hubiku cenote has a jumping platform from which you can jump into the water. It is an exciting experience for those who enjoy water sports and want to try something different.

Amenities and services: The Hubiku cenote have amenities and services to provide a pleasant experience to visitors. There are changing areas, toilets, changing rooms and showers available. You can also find a restaurant on site to enjoy local food and post-swim refreshments.

Accessibility: The Hubiku cenote is located near Valladolid and is easily accessible from the city. You can get there by car or public transportation, making it a convenient option for visitors to the area.

There is a video of hubiku so you can have a better idea

Do not think twice visit the surroundings of Chichen Itza

Important, the reason for this post is to whet your appetite to know more places near Chichen Itza, however, it is important to research each specific place, for example opening hours, prices, etc., the information presented is not detailed enough and that additional research in more specialized sources is necessary to obtain a fuller understanding of the subject.

Always remember to find out about opening hours, fees and any special requirements for each place you want to visit. Exploring the surroundings of Chichen Itza will allow you to further immerse yourself in the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty!

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