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You have heard about it, seen it on the History Channel, and now is your opportunity to see it in person...one of the most famous Mayan Ruins, Chichen Itza.
Your day adventure will begin just outside your cruise terminal where you will meet your federally certified, English-speaking guide and your air-conditioned transportation to continue your way to Chichen Itza. The guide will be giving you the background and information about your day- Chichen Itza and the Mayan Empire. Please have your questions ready. The travel time to the ruins is approximately 2 hours each way.
When you arrive at Chichen Itza, stretch your legs and get your camera out, as your exploration of these vast ruins begins. The site covers approximately 6 square miles and contains hundreds of ruins - you will get the opportunity to see many of them although not all due to time.
The most prominent structure on the grounds is El Castillo (the castle), also known as The Pyramid of Kukulcan. Kukulcan is a Mayan feathered serpent figure that resembles the Aztec flying reptile, Quetzalcoatl. The structure rises over 98ft tall. You will learn from your guide why El Castillo plays a major role during the Spring and Fall equinoxes. Although impressive to look at, climbing this or any of the structures in Chichen Itza is prohibited.
Also, an interesting feature of the ruins is the number of ball courts - there are 13 courts in all with the largest being The Great Ball Court. Slightly resembling a combination of basketball and soccer, this game had an unusual twist. Sacrificial connections were not to the losers of the match but rather to the winners!
You will also get to see the Temple of Warriors, and many more of the structural ruins found within Chichen Itza. This excursion involves a lot of walking and has many uneven surfaces.
The transportation will take you back to the cruise terminal in Progreso at the end of your excursion.
Enjoy, experience, and explore one of the most famous of all Mayan Ruins. See Chichen Itza on a guided day excursion from Progreso, Mexico.