When visiting Mexico, exploring the various ruins of Mayan Culture is a must. Two of the most popular sites are Chichen Itza and Tulum Ruins.
A comparison of Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza further gets complicated as both offer a fantastic experience to the visitors.
However, you can consider a few specific points to make the Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza simple for you.
This comparison article will cover everything from the sizes of the site, including maps, to the structures you can explore and the settings in which they are.
So, let’s jump in and answer conclusively what is best between Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza for you.
Chichen Itza Vs Tulum Ruins: Our recommendation
Here is a quick recommendation for all the busy bees who can’t read the entire comparison.
Pick Chichen Itza, as it offers a more immersive experience. There are more structures here, and all of them are well-preserved.
Chichen Itza is far bigger, more popular, and more significant in Mayan Ruins than Tulum Ruins.
History buffs and culture seekers can delve deep into the intricate details and learn from the various structures through guided tours.
However, if you aren’t an outright historical buff and just want a slice of Mayan Culture in the most accessible way, then Tulum Ruins is perfect.
The Tulum Ruins are also perfect for those who don’t want to commit an entire day to exploring.
For those who want a comprehensive experience, we recommend going for a Combo ticket and exploring both the Mayan sites.
Tulum Ruins
Location: Zona Hotelera Tulum, 77765 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Get Directions!
Structures to explore: El Castillo, The Wall, Temple of Frescoes, etc
Opening hours: 8 am to 5 pm
Last Entry: 4 pm
Ticket price: MX $156 (US $9)
Chichen Itza
Location: Merida, Chichen Itza 97751, Mexico. Get Directions!
Structures to explore: El Castillo, Ball Court, Sacred Cenote, etc
Opening hours: 8 am to 5 pm
Last Entry: 4 pm
Ticket price: MX $1124 (US $65)
Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza: What they offer and their unique proposition.
Chichen Itza is one of the larger Mayan ruins. It is one of North America’s most visited archaeological sites, with 2 million yearly visitors.
Chichen Itza is a UNESCO Heritage site and is considered one of the 7 wonders of the Modern World.
With accolades like this, it is undoubtedly one of the must-visit sites that will transport you back in time as the well-preserved ruins surround you.
With the main pyramid, the Temple of Kukulkan, being the highlight, Chichen Itza allows visitors to explore more structures.
It gives visitors a perfect opportunity to learn about the history, fascinating facts, and cultural heritage.
Apart from actually taking a Chichen Itza tour, visitors can gauge the true size and extent by looking at the Chichen Itza map beforehand.
Where Tulum Ruins shines is its convenience. Getting to Tulum Ruins is far easier than getting to Chichen Itza.
Tulum Ruins was originally built as an Oceanside fortress. It is the only beachfront Mayan Ruins located in the state of Quintana Roo.
The Tulum Ruins is elevated at a height of about 12 meters (39 feet).
The most remarkable feature of the Tulum Ruins is the picturesque oceanfront views of the Caribbean Sea.
It also offers a one-of-a-kind public beach access area to cool off after visiting the ruins.
Tulum Ruins has a few smaller structures, including the main El Castillo.
But this is not as extensive as Chichen Itza, featuring The Temple Of Warrior, The Great Ball Court, El Caracol and more.
Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza: Tickets
The basic skip-the-line Chichen Itza ticket price is MX $1124 (US $65). This is a good option if you can sort out getting to the Chichen Itza and Parking.
Visitors can select plenty of other Chichen Itza tickets according to their itinerary.
The Chichen Itza transfer tickets allow you a hassle-free, convenient transfer facility.
On top of this, you have the option to pick guided tours and combo tours.
You can get a combo Chichen Itza and Tulum Ruins Tour to explore both together.
Beyond this, you can partake in many adventure activities while visiting Chichen Itza, the fantastic night tour of Chichen Itza to witness the light show.
The entry skip-the-line Tulum ticket prices are MX $156 (US $9), extremely inexpensive compared to Chichen Itza.
Apart from this, the Mystika Immersive & Tulum Ruins tickets will give you a unique experience of the Mayan civilization and allow you to explore the pyramids in Tulum.
One of the most preferred Tulum ruins tickets is the Tulum and Coba Full-day tour. This pass will give you a holistic experience of the archaeological site.
Check out the various things to do in Tulum and get a ticket!
Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza: Crucial details you must know
Apart from the obvious USPs of these sites, there are a few other crucial details that you must factor in to choose between Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza.
From getting to these individual sites to the best time to visit and opening hours, considering these factors can help you pick one comparing Tulum Ruins Vs Chichen Itza.
Tulum Ruins opening hours
The Tulum Ruins are open seven days a week. The Tulum Ruins opening hours are from 8 am to 5 pm.
However, this is the typical Tulum Ruins hours of operation. It is still subject to change depending on the time of the year, as seasons change.
During winter, the Tulum Opening hours are shorter, from 8 am to 3 pm.
Make sure you keep a closer eye on the official website to know the day-to-day Tulum opening hours.
Chichen Itza opening hours
The typical Chichen Itza opening hours are similar to Tulum Ruins opening hours, 8 am to 5 pm.
The Chichen Itza opening hours remain consistent throughout the week. One thing to note is the last entry is kept at 4 pm.
One unique thing with Chichen Itza is that visitors can also experience it at night.
The Chichen Itza Night Show featuring the Light and Sound Show is an unforgettable experience that makes Chichen Itza even more enchanting.
Best time to go to Tulum Ruins
The weather closely following the peak season and low season of tourists in Tulum dictates the best time to go there.
The peak season offers rainless days from December to April when the weather is pleasant, and the sun shines bright.
However, those who are budget traveler and want to save money should plan their visit to Tulum Ruins between the months of November and early December.
The crowds are comparatively less, and Tulum’s weather is also pleasant for exploring.
Given the easy accessibility to Tulum ruins, it gets crowded during the Weekends.
Plan your visit early in the morning around the opening hours during the weekdays to avoid rush hours.
Best time to go to Chichen Itza
November to April is the best time to go to Chichen Itza. It is an ideal time to visit Chichen Itza on vacation to Mexico.
The summer months, from April to June, can be really hot as the average temperature is as high as 92 degrees Fahrenheit.
Avoid the rainy and colder winter months, too. These rainy and humid days are generally from July to October.
The most ideal months for the weather are January and February. To avoid crowd visits during the weekdays and reach as close to the opening time as possible.
Getting to Tulum Ruins
Getting to Tulum Ruins is fairly straightforward, given its location just outside the city center of Tulum.
The exact Tulum Ruins address is Zona Hotelera Tulum, 77765 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Open the Tulum Ruins location on Google Maps for easy navigation.
From the Tulum city center, it takes only 10 minutes to reach the Tulum Ruins.
From Playa del Carmen, it takes 1 hour to reach Tulum Ruins. From Cancun, it takes 2 hours.
Similarly, from Merida and Valladolid, it takes 3 hours and 1 hour 30 minutes, respectively to reach Tulum Ruins.
You can always pick a Tulum Ruins Transfer tour from
Getting to Chichen Itza
Getting to Chichen Itza is difficult as it is located deep within the Yucatan Peninsula Jungle.
The exact Chichen Itza address is Merida, Chichen Itza 97751, Mexico. Open the Chichen Itza location on Google Maps for easy navigation.
From Playa del Carmen, it takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Chichen Itza. Chichen Itza is easiest to reach from Valladolid, 45 minutes.
The nearest big city is Cancun, preferred by most visitors. It takes almost 3 hours to reach Chichen Itza from Cancun.
From Tulum, reaching Chichen Itza will take approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
However, we recommend taking a Chichen Itza transfer tour from nearby places to avoid travel-related hassles.
You can take a transfer tour from Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Merida, and more.
Map of Tulum Ruins
If you look closer at the Map of Tulum Ruins, it is much smaller and more well-organized than Chichen Itza.
The main highlight is the Pyramid temple, El Castillo, located at the site’s back end closest to the water.
The limestone wall surrounding the Tulum Ruins protected the city from the landward side.
The entrance to the Tulum Ruins is among these walls to access the approximately 60 or more structures.
The Funerary platform is the first few structures starting from the entrance.
Other structures include the Temple of the Frescoes, the House of the Columns, the Temple of the Wind God, and more.
Check out the map of Tulum Ruins to know your way around the site before you visit.
Chichen Itza Cancun Map
Chichen Itza is a huge site spread over 5 square kilometers or 2 square miles.
It has several zones with its attractions and main structures. Chichen Itza has 5 bigger sites. You can check the Chichen Itza map for a more detailed look.
The most famous structure is the Pyramid in Chichen Itza, notably the Pyramid of Kukulkan or El Castillo, which is the first thing you see after entering.
Other significant structures include the Ball Court, The temple of the Warriors, The observatory or El Caracol, and The Sacred Cenote.
The Chichen Itza ruins have tons of fascinating historical facts and trivia.
And if you are looking beyond the usual guided tours, you can pick the self-guided audio narration ticket for Chichen Itza.
Chichen Itza Vs Tulum Ruins: Which One You Should Pick?
If you have time, Chichen Itza is highly recommended for a more holistic experience. The well-preserved structures are certainly worth it.
The location of Chichen Itza deep within the jungle and the sheer number of structures at the Chichen Itza will teleport you back in time.
With more things to explore, you can delve deeper into the Mayan Civilization and history.
On the other hand, if you want a short and scenic experience of the Mayan civilization, opt for the Tulum Ruins.
It will be easily accessible, and you won’t have to spend an entire day exploring the site.
For people who want the absolute best, pick the Combo Chichen Itza and Tulum Ruins tour to explore both.
Uxmal Ruins Vs Chichen Itza
On the opposite side of the Tulum Ruins, approximately 200 km from Chichen Itza, is located another popular Mayan Ruin, the Uxmal Ruins.
Thus, a comparison of Uxmal Ruins Vs Chichen Itza is relevant for visitors who are confused about which one to visit.
Just like the Tulum Ruins, Uxmal Ruins is also pretty small compared to Chichen Itza, which is spread over 5 square km (1.9 square miles).
The Uxmal Ruins is only 0.6 square kilometers or 150 acres (60 hectares).
However, Uxmal Ruins feature intricate and well-preserved architecture, which visitors won’t find in Chichen Itza and Tulum Ruins.
One structure that showcases the intricate artistry and high points of Mayan architecture is the Pyramid of the Magician.
Even though less in number, there are plenty of structures at Uxmal Ruins, such as the Governor’s Palace, the Nunnery Quadrangle, and The Great Pyramid.
The structures at the Uxmal Ruins are well-preserved.
With less crowd and more quality structures, the Uxmal Ruins offer a great gateway introduction to the rich Mayan Civilization.
However, if you want to explore more, Chichen Itza is undoubtedly a clear choice.
The Chichen Itza is a must-visit site if you truly want to explore Mayan Culture and Civilization.
Uxmal Ruins hours
Like other popular Mayan Archaeological sites, the Uxmal Ruins remain open 7 days a week.
The Uxmal Ruins hours of operation remain the same all days of the week, 8 am to 5 pm.
However, the last entry time at the Uxmal Ruins is 4 pm.
Uxmal Ruins map
The Uxmal Ruins Map will clue you in how the site is laid out so that you can navigate easily and explore the site.
The Uxmal Ruins map shows the site is not well organized like the Tulum Ruins.
One of the Uxmal Ruins highlights is the Pyramid of the Magician. It is located near the main entrance.
The Nunnery Quadrangle is situated east of the Magician’s Pyramid. Located to the south of it is the Governor’s Palace.
Pyramid of the Turtle is located at the northern end of the site and is the highest structure at Uxmal.
Other noteworthy structures at Uxmal Ruins include the Ball Court, Temple of the Doves, and Temple del Sur.
Uxmal Ruins address
The exact Uxmal Ruins address is 97884 Uxmal, Yucatan, Mexico. Open the Uxmal Ruins location in Google Maps for easy navigation.
For reference, the Uxmal Ruins are located about 90 miles (150 km) west-southwest of the Chichen Itza.
Getting to Uxmal Ruins is straightforward; visitors can use a variety of public transportation to reach it.
Getting a Uxmal Ruins transfer tour from nearby places, such as Merida and Campeche, is the best way to avoid travel hassles.
Chichen Itza Vs Uxmal Ruins: Which one to pick?
If you want a no-compromise, extensive experience of the Mayan Civilization, then Chichen Itza is a must-visit due to its sheer size.
The myriad of well-preserved structures, with the highlight being the El Castillo, the Chichen Itza teleports visitors into the bygone age.
At Chichen Itza, there is more to learn and discover. Visitors can truly delve deep into the rich history of the Mayan Culture.
On the other hand, Uxmal Ruins offers a toned-down, less-touristy experience where you can truly appreciate the intricate artistry of Mayan ruins.
At Uxmal Ruins, visitors can see the high points of the Mayan architecture.
If you don’t have time to commit an entire day to Chichen Itza, then Uxmal Ruins can be an excellent introductory tour of Mayan ruins.
For history buffs and culture seekers, we recommend you visit both these sites to cover the entire expanse of Mayan Civilization.
FAQs
Which one is better Chichen Itza or Tulum?
Chichen Itza is a bigger and one of Mexico’s most visited archaeological sites. Apart from the Pyramid temple, there are more things to explore.
Tulum Ruins is the only beachfront Mayan ruins offering scenic ocean views of the Caribbean Sea. The structures at Chichen Itza are more well-preserved.
The choice boils down to what type of experience you want. Pick Chichen Itza if you want to delve deep into the history and culture of Mayan Civilization.
What is the difference Tulum Ruins and Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza is located deep inside the Jungle and far bigger than Tulum Ruins. Apart from the highlight, El Castillo, plenty of other structures exist.
In comparison, Tulum Ruins is a beachfront complex that offers majestic Caribbean Sea views. There are far fewer structures that are less preserved.
Are Tulum Ruins worth it?
Undoubtedly, The Tulum Ruins offer an unparalleled experience for visitors looking for a slice of Mayan Civilisation conveniently; getting to Tulum Ruins is easier.
Though the structures are not as majestic or well preserved as Chichen Itza, Tulum Ruins enjoys a scenic location like no other Mayan Ruins.
Which is better to visit, Tulum or Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza is, without any doubt, more spectacular and grand. And between Tulum vs Chichen Itza, the latter is a more extensive site. The Chichen Itza pyramids are more impressive.
But we recommend you opt for the combo Chichen Itza and Tulum ticket that allows you to explore both and not miss out on any fun.
Chichen Itza vs Coba
Between Chichen Itza and Coba, the former is the more significant site with many bigger structures reflecting Mayan architecture.
Even though Coba is smaller, it is known for its extensive stone causeways and roads with a large central pyramid.
We recommend visiting both as you can easily find a combo Chichen Itza and Coba tickets to explore both in one ticket.
Chichen itza vs Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan vs Chichen Itza is not for comparison, as both are equally appealing.
Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza, known for their massive pyramids, are Mexico’s most visited archaeological sites.
Both are spectacular and must-visit sites Whenever you are in Mexico. We recommend both of them equally.
Tikal vs Chichen Itza
Both are located in drastically distant places, making visiting both on the same day impossible.
Tikal is far older, but both boast fine examples of Mayan architecture, including impressive pyramids.
Between Chichen Itza vs. Tikal, you can pick more than one. We’d recommend you check out both of these sites.
Uxmal and Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is more popular between Uxmal and Chichen Itza, but the Uxmal archaeological site is also pretty impressive.
Uxmal is famous for its Puuc-style architecture, while the pyramids at Chichen Itza are world-renowned.
If you must choose, then Chichen Itza is the more popular option, but we suggest going for both as Uxmal will surprise you.
Chichen Itza vs. Egyptian Pyramids
There is no comparison between the Chichen Itza and the Egyptian pyramids. Both are famous for their architecture.
Chichen Itza is a smaller version of the Egyptian pyramids. Infact, all the pyramids are famous due to the Egyptian pyramids.
Both encapsulate numerous fascinating stories within their remains. You must visit both and marvel at the ancient architecture and feats of engineering.
Chichen Itza vs Great Pyramid
The Great Pyramid of Giza is far older and more impressive. Trivial thoughts like “Is Chichen Itza the largest pyramid” falls flat in the context of Chichen Itza vs Giza.
The Great Pyramid of Giza was the largest structure for more than 3800 years and is still the largest Pyramid ever built.
But both hold a significant history within their remains. Thus, visiting both is highly recommended to appreciate both!
Chichen itza vs Machu Picchu
Chichen Itza is located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and is an archaeological site of ancient Mayan City built around the 7th and 13th C.
Machu Picchu was built around 1450 and is an ancient Inca citadel in the picturesque Andes mountains.
Between Chichen Itza and Machu Picchu, It is not a question of one versus the other as both are fine examples of their respective civilizations and are must-visit sites.
Featured Image : Jkraft5, Nathan Cima/Pexels
