Overview
El Caracol is an ancient astronomical observatory located in the archaeological site of Chichén-Itzá. It is a unique and well-preserved example of Mayan architecture.
El Caracol is significant for its astronomical alignments and its role in ancient Mayan culture and science.
Location
Address
Chichén-Itzá, Mexico
Neighborhood: Yucatán Peninsula
Coordinates
20.683900, -88.567100
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • flowers
- • gardens
summer
hot
- • extended hours
autumn
cool
- • fall colors
winter
cool
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Bring ID
- Check weather
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
- • heat
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
Mexican Peso
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Chichén-Itzá Official App
Size: 50 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Cancún International Airport
Distance: 250 km
Travel Time: 3 hours
From City Center
Distance: 10 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance
Historical Significance: Important events happened here
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning
- Best food at back entrance
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cafe
- • Ask for guide John
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
El Caracol
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle
Result: Great shot
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Chichén-Itzá Pyramids
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Historical Site
Sacred Cenote
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Natural Wonder
Reviews
Based on 2,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Great views"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Cancun Snorkeling Tour: Swim with Turtles, Reef, Underwater Museum and Shipwreck
Chichen Itza Day Trip Exclusive Nool-Ha Cenote & Valladolid Visit
Full Day Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Tour, from Cancun
Playa del Carmen Shopping Tour Fifth Avenue and Mamitas Beach Club
Coba and Tulum, cenote swim and buffet lunch
Selvatica Adventure Park: Ziplines and Cenote Tour from Cancun and Riviera Maya
Half-Day Puerto Morelos Snorkeling Experience with Lunch
Full Day Tour to Visit Chichen Itza Saamal Cenote and Valladolid
Mangrove Jungle Speedboat Experience
Kaan Luum & Cenotes Mayan Traditions
Tour de Dia a Chichén Cenote Ik Kil Cenote Suytun y Valladolid
Selvatica Adventure Park ATV and Ziplines in Cancun and Riviera Maya
Chichen Itza Private Tour from Cancun
Discover Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen
Chichen itza regular tour with lunch and Cenote experience.
Tour ful day Chichén Itzá
Visit Chichen Itza with Private Guide
Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour with Snorkeling from Cancun
Holbox Island from Playa del Carmen
Private Inshore Fishing Experience in Isla Mujeres and Cancún
ATV, Ziplining & Cenote Tour, Transportation & Tequila Tasting
5 Days Mayan Heritage History Tour
Tour to Tulum and Cenote for the best price!
Full-Day Tulum Expedition and Rio Secreto Adventure
Quick Info
Available Tours
7
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
2,000
Adult Entry
$25