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Description
The ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá are amazing. Chichén Itzá was one of the largest Maya cities and the complex of temples is truly impressive. The ancient ruins are a mega tourist attraction and groups of visitors swarm all over the site. Nowhere in Mexico will you find so many stalls selling souvenirs. The amount of stalls is almost bizarre, there are hundreds of them and they are everywhere on the site, even in the middle of the jungle.
Having said that, like most Maya ruins, the temples of Chichén Itzá are located in the middle of the lowland jungle of Yucatan. Therefore there are always some nice birds to see. Which makes Chichén Itzá a perfect place to combine sight-seeing with relaxed birding. Yes, the number of birds you see can be disappointing (for most birds it is simply too busy with people). But if you take this into account, you can really enjoy the old ruins and see some nice birds on the side.
Whatever you do, make sure you're inside when the doors open at 8 a.m. You are ahead of the biggest heat and have the best chance on a bit of bird activity and seeing some more shy birds. Best is to walk straight to the furthest corners of the temple complex and scan the jungle edges and leave the famous central temples for later. And there is one advantage to the crowds at Chichén Itzá. Some birds have become accustomed to people and birds such as Yucatan Jay, Altamira Oriole, Green Jay, Turquoise-browed Motmot, Melodious Blackbird and Bronzed Cowbird can sometimes be photographed up close as they land in front of your feet or just above your head.
Details
Access
Chichén Itzá is located right in the middle of Merida and Cancún and 35 km west of Valladolid. Click on the P in the map for directions or coordinates. Zona Arqueológica Chichén Itzá is open from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Last entry is at 4:00 pm. Entrance fee 614 MXN (2024). There are many paths to explore the area. To see the whole complex and check all temples and paths you probably walk about 5 to 6 km. The entrance building has toilets and there is a restaurant.