Preparation for Your Journey

Before setting out on your hitchhiking adventure, it’s essential to plan and prepare. One of the most critical things to remember is that hitchhiking can be unpredictable, so being flexible is crucial. While spontaneity is part of the fun, some basic preparations can make your trip smoother.

Firstly, pack lightly. A small, comfortable backpack is all you need. Make sure to include a good sleeping bag, a small tent (if you plan to camp), some snacks, and, of course, a water bottle. It’s also wise to have a power bank to charge your devices, as electricity might not always be available.

Next, research the countries and routes you’ll be traveling through. Some places are more hitchhiker-friendly than others, and certain roads are busier, meaning you’ll have a better chance of getting a ride. Cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, and Barcelona are well-known for being hitchhiker hubs, while rural areas may be more challenging.

How to Get a Ride

The key to hitchhiking is finding the right spots and being patient. Stand in areas where drivers are likely to pick you up—busy highways, gas stations, or on-ramps are excellent locations. Holding a sign with the name of your destination written on it can increase your chances of being picked up. Keep the sign clear, concise, and legible. Remember, most people who stop will be headed somewhere nearby, so don’t always expect a long-distance ride.

One useful tip is to avoid standing too close to intersections. It’s better to be visible to the drivers but far enough to avoid them having to stop suddenly. When you do get picked up, always be polite, and if you feel comfortable, engage in light conversation with the driver. Not only does this make the ride more pleasant, but it also helps build trust.

Useful Life Hacks for Hitchhiking

1. Dress for Success: Wearing bright colors or clothes with your country’s flag can make you more visible and approachable. A friendly appearance can also encourage drivers to stop.
2. Use Apps and Websites: Hitchhiking has evolved with technology. Apps like BlaBlaCar or websites like plinki.co.uk can offer opportunities to connect with people offering rides or even provide ways to earn money on the road. You can use these platforms to supplement your hitchhiking efforts and get a sense of local ride-sharing services.
3. Carry a Travel Journal: This might not help with getting a ride, but it will add a lot to your experience. Writing down your adventures can be a great way to relive the moments and connect with others who might be interested in your journey later.
4. Know Basic Phrases in the Local Language: Although hitchhiking is universal, communication is still essential. Learning basic phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “where are you going?” in the local language can go a long way in building rapport with drivers.
5. Be Ready to Adapt: Sometimes, the driver who picks you up may not be going the exact way you want to go. Be flexible, as they might offer to take you to a nearby city where it’s easier to get another ride. Don’t hesitate to accept these offers.
6. Stay Safe: Hitchhiking can be fun and rewarding, but safety should always be your priority. Trust your instincts. If a driver makes you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to politely decline the ride. Also, inform someone close to you about your travel plans for safety reasons.

Finding Accommodation

While traveling by hitchhiking, you’ll also need to find a place to sleep. In many European countries, camping is a popular and accessible option for budget travelers. Public parks or campsites are ideal for pitching your tent. Additionally, websites like WarmShowers or Couchsurfing can provide free places to stay by connecting you with friendly locals who offer their homes to travelers.

Alternatively, if you find yourself in need of a quick rest, many truck stops offer safe places to sleep in your sleeping bag or even on a bench. Always be respectful of the places where you sleep, and clean up after yourself.

Enjoying the Journey

Hitchhiking across Europe isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about the journey itself. You’ll experience different landscapes, cultures, and meet a variety of people who will share their stories with you. Use this opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, try regional foods, and visit hidden gems off the beaten path.

The beauty of hitchhiking is that every day is a new adventure. You’re constantly moving, meeting new people, and seeing new places. With the freedom to choose your route, you can explore Europe in a way that few others ever will.

Conclusion

Hitchhiking through Europe offers a unique and affordable way to experience the continent. By being prepared, using technology to your advantage, and staying safe, you can make the most of this incredible journey. Whether you’re using plinki.co.uk to supplement your travel budget or simply relying on the kindness of strangers, the world of hitchhiking opens up endless possibilities. With the right mindset and a spirit of adventure, hitchhiking can turn your European journey into a trip of a lifetime.

The post Traveling Through Europe by Hitchhiking: A Journey of Freedom and Adventure appeared first on MK Travel With.

Preparation for the Hitchhiking Journey

Before hitting the road, it’s essential to prepare. Unlike traditional travel, hitchhiking requires flexibility and a sense of adventure. Your first step is to pack lightly—carry only the essentials. A small backpack with clothing, a sleeping bag, a tent, and a water bottle is all you need. Depending on where you’re traveling, you may also need warm clothes and a waterproof jacket to handle unpredictable weather.

A key part of preparing is also understanding the countries you’re traveling through. While most of Europe is hitchhiker-friendly, some countries have a stronger tradition of hitchhiking, like Germany and the Netherlands, while others, like the UK, may have more stringent laws. Research your destinations and try to find the most convenient and safe routes to increase your chances of getting picked up.

Getting a Ride: The Art of Hitchhiking

The main objective of hitchhiking is to get a ride, but doing so requires some finesse. Your location is important—stand on the side of the road where cars can easily pull over, such as at petrol stations, on-ramps, or highways. Always try to be visible but not too close to busy intersections.

When it comes to standing in front of the cars, it’s also helpful to have a sign with your destination written clearly. This can help drivers know where you’re headed and determine if they’re going that way. While some people prefer not to use signs, it can significantly increase your chances of getting a ride.

Be friendly and polite when a car pulls over. Start with a smile and greet the driver, and engage in some light conversation if they seem open to it. Sometimes, drivers are more inclined to pick you up if you make them feel comfortable, so be courteous and show respect.

Useful Hitchhiking Tips

1. Dress to Stand Out: Wearing bright colors or clothes with a national flag can make you more noticeable and approachable. A friendly demeanor also helps encourage drivers to stop.
2. Always Have a Plan B: Sometimes, the driver who picks you up won’t be going exactly where you want. In such cases, be flexible and willing to go a short distance before finding another ride.
3. Safety First: Trust your instincts. If something feels off about the driver or the car, don’t hesitate to turn down the ride. It’s better to wait for another opportunity than to feel unsafe during your travels.
4. Practice Patience: Hitchhiking often involves long waits. If you find yourself stuck in a spot for too long, use this time to enjoy your surroundings, reflect on your journey, or even take a break. It’s all part of the adventure.
5. Use Technology: While hitchhiking is traditional, it’s not outdated. Apps like BlaBlaCar or websites like Plinko Casino UK can help you connect with drivers or even offer a way to earn extra cash along the way. Use these tools to supplement your journey when needed.

Finding a Place to Sleep

One of the challenges of hitchhiking is finding accommodation. If you’re on a tight budget, you can camp in public parks or near highways (just make sure it’s legal). Many European cities have low-cost hostels, and platforms like Couchsurfing or WarmShowers offer free stays with locals. Always ensure that you’re safe and that your campsite or accommodations are secure.

For short stays, consider truck stops or rest areas as they often provide safe places to sleep. Remember to always clean up after yourself and be respectful of the space you use.

The Thrills of the Road: A Unique Experience

Hitchhiking is about more than just getting from point A to point B. It’s about the journey itself, the people you meet, and the stories you gather. You’ll experience new places firsthand, see hidden gems, and get advice from locals along the way.

When you’re traveling this way, the world feels like a much smaller, friendlier place. Hitchhiking brings you closer to the cultures you’re exploring, and you’ll find that many drivers are eager to share their experiences and learn about yours.

One fun aspect of this journey is the potential to make new friends. Many drivers are also travelers themselves, so you might find a shared adventure or even a travel buddy. Remember that each ride is a new chapter of your journey, and each stop adds a new layer to your understanding of the world.

Earning Along the Way

While hitchhiking is a free way to travel, sometimes it’s helpful to have extra cash to supplement your journey. In addition to using platforms like Plinko Casino UK for entertainment, you might also find work opportunities along the way, such as volunteering or picking up odd jobs in hostels or local shops. Websites like Workaway or Worldpackers are great resources for finding temporary jobs to fund your travels.

Conclusion

Hitchhiking through Europe is one of the most affordable and rewarding ways to travel. It allows you to experience the continent in an entirely different way, meeting new people, seeing places off the beaten path, and embracing the unpredictability that comes with travel. Use the tips and tools provided here to make your journey more enjoyable and safe.

Remember that traveling is about the experience. With the right mindset, a little planning, and an open heart, you can turn your hitchhiking adventure into a life-changing trip. And who knows—while you’re on the road, you may even find yourself enjoying a bit of fun and luck with a game from Plinko Casino UK, adding a little excitement to your travels along the way!

The post Hitchhiking Through Europe: How to Explore the Continent with Nothing But Your Thumbs and Adventure appeared first on MK Travel With.

Buenos Aires – The Paris of South America

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is a vibrant metropolis that combines European elegance with Latin flavor. The city is known for its impressive architecture, cultural events and vibrant nightlife. Stroll along wide avenues and cobblestone streets, admiring grand buildings and historic districts such as San Telmo and La Boca. The colorful Caminito Street Museum and the famous Casa Rosada presidential palace await you here.

Enjoy the city’s passion for tango: sultry dance halls invite locals and visitors to witness this romantic art form. Gastronomes will enjoy the city’s culinary scene, where traditional parillas (steakhouses) serve succulent cuts of beef and upscale restaurants offer a combination of gourmet dishes. The city’s numerous parks, such as Bosques de Palermo, provide a respite from the greenery, and the thriving art scene, with museums like MALBA, showcases Latin American creativity in all its glory.

Iguazu Falls are a thunderous natural wonder

Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, the Iguazu Falls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Spanning 2.7 kilometers and with 275 separate cascades, the falls create a spectacular sight. The surrounding Iguazu National Park offers a variety of flora and fauna, including colorful birds and capuchin monkeys, enhancing this unique ecological experience.

Pathways and viewing platforms, such as Devil’s Throat, allow visitors to get a closer look at the roaring waters. For the adventurous, a boat ride offers a breathtaking view from the riverbank. In addition to the falls, the park’s subtropical rainforest invites you on guided tours to learn about native plants and wildlife, providing a deep dive into this natural wonder.

Patagonia is a majestic land of glaciers and mountains

Argentine Patagonia is a vast region of spectacular scenery, from crystal clear lakes to snow-capped peaks. Los Glaciares National Park is the jewel in its crown, home to the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive ice formation that is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing. The park offers boat tours and hiking opportunities to admire close-up views of the glacier wall and its spectacular ice chipping events.

Further south, the rugged beauty of Tierra del Fuego awaits explorers. Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, serves as the gateway to Tierra del Fuego National Park and the starting point for expeditions to Antarctica. Adventure activities abound here, from hiking and skiing to cruises through the Beagle Strait to see sea lions, penguins and dolphins. Patagonia’s unspoiled nature is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, promising an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature.

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What you need to know before traveling

People travel to China most often to see the imperial palaces in Beijing, climb the Great Wall, see the Terracotta Army and the mountainous nature of Asia, but also for the delicious food, Hainan beaches, Tibetan temples and the skyscrapers of Shanghai. The most visited cities are Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Macau.

What to see in Beijing

Beijing is the capital of China, the main cultural city, the keeper of history and centuries-old traditions. People come here to see the palaces of emperors, the Temple of Heaven and Mao Zedong’s mausoleum. Let’s tell you about these and other important historical places in Beijing.

Forbidden City

The main palace of the 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties who ruled from 1420 to 1918. For many years ordinary people were not allowed to enter the city: the ruling emperor’s family lived here, and it was forbidden to enter without permission on pain of death. Now everyone can get there. Inside: throne rooms, the main palace, religious buildings, pavilions, pavilions, arbors, galleries, lakes and gardens. The palace is listed in the UNESCO list and is located in the very center of Beijing.

Summer Palace

In the Forbidden City the emperors of China lived and ruled the Celestial Empire, and in the Summer Palace they rested from state affairs. It includes 3,000 buildings and a painted corridor 728 meters long – about 8,000 paintings hang on the walls. The Summer Palace is considered one of the best preserved imperial gardens in the world. It is located on the northwestern outskirts of Beijing.

Temple of Heaven

The temple was built from 1420 to 1530 and is almost 500 years old. The emperors of China observed a three-day fast once a year, brought generous gifts here and prayed for the prosperity of the state. The temple is on the UNESCO list. It is located in the center of Beijing.

Mao Zedong Mausoleum

Memorial to revolutionary and founder of the People’s Republic of China Mao Zedong. The mausoleum has several historical halls, the main one containing a crystal coffin with the remains of the leader. The mausoleum is located in the center of Beijing.

Tiananmen Square

A large square opposite Mao Zedong’s mausoleum. The name translates as “Gate of Heavenly Tranquility.” Here, on October 1, 1949, Mao announced the establishment of the People’s Republic of China.

Main attractions of China

Great Wall of China

Where: northern part of China ~ 70 km from Beijing.

The construction of the Great Wall began in the 3rd century B.C., and was finished only in 1644. It was built to clearly mark the borders of China and to defend against nomadic enemies. The Great Wall of China is even mentioned in the anthem of the People’s Republic of China – so great is its importance for the people of China. It is included in the UNESCO list. It is the longest artificial construction in the world. The first traveler who conquered the Great Wall of China spent 5 months on foot.

Terracotta Army

Where: Shanxi province, Xi’an city.

There was an emperor in the 3rd century B.C. – Qin Shihuangdi. He ascended the throne at the age of 13 and began to build himself a huge tomb in advance. The emperor’s plan was to erect several thousand statues of warriors to accompany him after his death. It is said that this is how he decided to satisfy his power ambitions even in the other world. Qin Shihuangdi lived to 48 years. The burial site is on the UNESCO list.

What else is worth considering

WeChat. The main app in China that everyone uses. Combines messenger, online banking, cab ordering, home rentals and more. We recommend installing and using it when you arrive in the country. You can only sign up through a local SIM card or with the help of another user.

Language. In China poorly know English, it is spoken only in large cities, and then not everywhere. Few signs are translated into English, and street names, the words “toilet” and “cafe” are often needed to use maps. We advise you to download an offline translator and actively use it, the locals are fine with it.

Air. The country has a high level of air pollution. We recommend taking a mask with you – almost everyone in China uses them.

Souvenirs. From China you can bring: tea, porcelain, fans, Chinese spices, cosmetics, Chinese silk, rice vodka, jade jewelry. Chinese lanterns or beautiful chopsticks are sold everywhere.

The post What to See in China: the Main Sights of the Country appeared first on MK Travel With.

Lesbian traveler stories

Many lesbian travelers share how important it is to choose destinations where they can feel free and safe. Sarah from the UK, for example, recounts: “My travels in Europe have been absolutely wonderful, especially in cities like Amsterdam and Barcelona where LGBTQ+ communities are supported at all levels. I feel confident and relaxed in places like that.”

Thomasina from Canada adds: “I discovered Sydney as the perfect destination for lesbian travelers. The beaches, nightlife, and variety of activities, including Gay Pride, make it a unique and friendly place for women who want to explore the world without fear.”

Tips for lesbian female travelers

Research local traditions and laws

Before traveling to a country, make sure it supports LGBTQ+ rights. Some regions may have strict laws restricting the rights of lesbian and gay tourists. Research the specifics of local norms and customs to avoid unpleasant situations.

Choose inclusive destinations

Many cities and countries such as Amsterdam, Barcelona and San Francisco are known for their tolerance and openness. These places host events, gatherings and celebrations that will help you find like-minded people and feel part of a big inclusive family.

Don’t forget about safety

Even in friendly places, it’s worth remembering personal safety. Make sure your routes and accommodation are safe and well-lit. Notify friends or family of your location and time to return to your hotel.

Use technology for convenience

Mobile apps and websites for LGBTQ+ travelers, such as “Gay Cities” or “Pink Pill,” provide helpful information about places, clubs and events that are especially suitable for lesbian travelers. This will help you find the best spots to socialize and relax.

Best Safe Routes

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a mecca for lesbian female travelers and offers a wide range of nightclubs, cafes, and cultural events. The city is also known for its support of LGBTQ+ rights and its annual Pride Parade.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has been a model for other cities on equality and human rights for many years. With many cozy cafes, bars and activities, the city welcomes all travelers, including lesbians.

Conclusion

Traveling is an opportunity to discover new horizons and learn about other cultures. It is important for lesbian female travelers to feel safe and confident that their chosen destination will open up new opportunities for them. By choosing inclusive and welcoming cities, travelers can not only enjoy new discoveries, but also feel free and comfortable anywhere in the world.

The post Lesbian Traveler: Stories, Tips and Safe Routes appeared first on MK Travel With.

Annecy, France

This city on the shores of Lake Annecy is often called the “Venice of France”. Narrow streets, canals, flowering balconies and an ancient castle create a unique atmosphere. Here you can take a boat ride on the lake, taste the local tom cheese and just enjoy the Alpine air.

Albarracín, Spain

An ancient town in Aragon, where time seems to have stopped in the Middle Ages. Narrow stone streets, fortress walls and stunning views of the surrounding mountains make it the perfect place for a secluded vacation.

Bled, Slovenia

Famous for its picturesque lake and small island with a church, only accessible by boat. Bled cream cake is a must on the gastronomic itinerary!

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

This town looks like it stepped off the pages of a fairy tale: winding streets, Gothic houses, a majestic castle and cozy cafes by the Vltava River. Perfect for leisurely strolls and the atmosphere of old Europe.

Dinan, Belgium

A charming town on the river Maas, surrounded by cliffs and forests. The saxophone was born here, so the spirit of jazz is in the air. A stroll along the waterfront and a tasting of Belgian beer is the best way to end the day.

These towns are a great alternative to noisy megacities. They will give you a cozy, unhurried and real European atmosphere. Where would you like to spend your next weekend?

The post Unknown Europe: Cozy Towns for the Perfect Weekend appeared first on MK Travel With.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has long been a symbol of freedom and inclusivity. Since day one, when the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, Amsterdam has remained a hub for the LGBTQ community. The city, known for its canals, museums and nightlife, hosts a huge Pride parade every year.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is not only great architecture and beaches, but it is also a warmly welcoming city for LGBTQ tourists. Barcelona Pride is not only about the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudi, but also about the variety of cultural events, bars and clubs. Barcelona Pride in Barcelona is one of the most colorful in Europe.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is one of the most progressive and liberal cities in Europe. LGBTQ+ communities are firmly established here, and the city’s streets have witnessed many historic events to protect the rights of sexual minorities. It’s easy to find places to socialize and have fun, as well as walk through historic neighborhoods and learn about the city’s role in the fight for equality.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney is not only one of Australia’s most beautiful cities, but also a place that is always supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. Sydney’s Pride Parade is one of the largest in the world, and Visak Festival is becoming a vibrant symbol of openness and inclusivity.

San Francisco, USA

San Francisco is rightly considered the capital of American gay culture. With its history dating back to the 1960s, the city continues to be a place for open expression of identity and equality. Walking down Gay Street, participating in Pride parades and a host of themed events will make your stay unforgettable.

These destinations will not only provide a comfortable travel experience, but will also help deepen your understanding of the culture and historical context in which the LGBTQ community has defended its rights. Traveling through these cities, you will feel free and equal anywhere in the world.

The post Best LGBTQ Destinations: Traveling Without Borders appeared first on MK Travel With.

First, always check the rules and requirements for entering the country you are going to. There are often changes in visa regulations, vaccination requirements or quarantine measures. For example, in some countries a passport is sufficient, while in others you may need a special visa or health insurance. Familiarize yourself with these rules in advance so you don’t end up in an unpleasant situation at the border.

It’s also worth remembering about chargers and adapters. Despite the fact that cell phones and other gadgets have now become an integral part of travel, many people forget about outlet adapters. Before traveling, check what outlet standards are used in your destination country and bring an adapter if you need one.

Don’t forget about insurance. Very often it is ignored, thinking that nothing will happen to them. But a case of lost luggage, injury or sudden illness can turn out to be a significant expense. It is better to spend some money on insurance than to risk your comfort and safety.

One of the most common mistakes is planning an itinerary that is too tight. I used to make this mistake of trying to see everything in a few days. But this only causes fatigue and frustration. It’s better to plan your days more loosely, giving yourself time for rest and spontaneous discoveries.

Another important rule is not to forget about local currency. Bank cards are convenient, but don’t always work in remote locations or markets. It’s better to have some cash so you don’t get into an awkward situation where you can’t pay with a card.

Equally important is the consideration of travel time. Many travelers do not pay attention to seasonal price fluctuations and tourist flow. High season attracts crowds of tourists, and prices for accommodation and food can be many times higher. By planning a trip in the off-season, you can avoid this and have a more relaxed and enjoyable experience of the place.

Another useful habit is to check your reservations. Always make sure your reservations for lodging, transportation or excursions are still valid before you depart. There are often mistakes or problems with reservations that can be corrected in advance.

In the end, traveling is not only about beautiful pictures and new experiences, but also about thinking through all the details in advance. Avoiding these mistakes will allow you to focus on the real adventure and enjoy every moment of the journey.

The post How to Avoid Travel Mistakes: Personal Tricks and Tips appeared first on MK Travel With.

Ya Nui

This charming 500-meter beach is just around the corner from the more famous Nai Harn Beach and is quite rarely crowded. Despite this, you can easily find everything you need here: refreshments, restaurant, kayak rentals, etc. Two small coves are separated by a rocky promontory where you can take stunning photos. About 300 meters from the shore is a small island with a sheltered cove where you can snorkel and watch the many fish swimming among the coral reefs.

Hua Beach

Just south of Kamala Beach is another slice of tropical paradise. This small 200-meter beach is a short walk away. Elephants can sometimes be seen swimming in the sea here. Be careful of the rocks in the water and take a snorkel with you. This beach is best visited during high tide.

Banana Beach

Banana Beach is farther away from the center, making it virtually deserted on any given day. The beach is located between Layan Beach to the south and Nai Ton to the north. Parking with limited spaces is available by the road, with a steep descent through the jungle leading to the beach. The beach is surrounded by many trees, in the shade of which you can hang a hammock. On the sides of the beach are rocky headlands where hermit crabs abound. When the sea is rough, the current here can be quite dangerous, so use caution.

Sai Khoo

This beach is suitable for particularly adventurous travelers as it is off the beaten track. To get here, you need to head to the southern part of Nai Yang Beach and start hiking from here. You can park at the boat ramp and walk around the promontory or climb the hill behind an abandoned hotel, where there is a small parking lot and a highly visible trail.

A hike along the trail will take you to several beaches, which are best visited at high tide if you want to swim. The beautiful path winds through bamboo groves and several headlands. The furthest beach is about 2.5 kilometers away. Here you will find beautiful cliffs, several reefs for snorkeling and a soulful atmosphere.

Mai Khao

Although this beach is not a secret beach, its large area makes it quite deserted. Be prepared for a long walk, as it is 10.5 kilometers long. The sheer size of this sandy strip itself is a delightful sight.

Most of the beach is surrounded by palm trees and pine trees swaying in the wind. The beach is divided into several different sections, but the northernmost 2.5 km looks particularly enticing. Again, the thing to be aware of here is the presence of strong underwater currents. Stay cautious, as it is unlikely that anyone will be able to help you here should you run into problems.

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Chichen Itza MexicoThe ancient city and pyramids of Chichen Itza is located on the Yucatan Peninsula, 205 km from the famous resort of Cancun and 120 km from Mérida. Chichen Itza is one of the most popular and most visited attractions on the Yucatan Peninsula. Almost all tourists who came on vacation in Mexico, in Cancun, consider it their duty to visit the archaeological complex of Chichen Itza, so there are always a lot of people here. It is desirable to arrive at the opening, then there is a chance to walk around the complex alone

How to get to the pyramids of Chichen Itza, Mexico

By bus. From Cancun, from Mérida there are buses of the company ADO. The cost of a ticket Cancun – Chichen Itza 80 – 140 pesos (depending on the class of bus). Travel time is 3-4 hours. The cost of the ticket Mérida – Chichen Itza 50-80 pesos, travel time 1.45 – 2.5 hours. You can buy an organized excursion to Chichen Itza, group or individual. The excursion can be booked at any hotel or arranged in advance with an individual guide.

By rental car. In my opinion, this is the best way to get to Chichen Itza. On the way you can see other sights.

Mode of operation and cost of visiting the archaeological complex of Chichen Itza

The Chichen Itza complex is open to the public from 8:00 to 17:00. The evening light show takes place at 19:00 in winter and at 20:00 in summer.
Chichen Itza ticket cost: a ticket to Chichen Itza consists of two parts – a 125 peso ticket and a 57 peso ticket, totaling 182 pesos ($14.5). These are the most expensive pyramids we’ve been to in Mexico Parking near Chichen Itza is also paid – 22 pesos (just under $2).

We knew that we should come to Chichen Itza as early as possible, so we left the hotel in Cancun at 6:30 am! We drove to Chichen Itza on the toll road to save time. Passage, on the toll road Cancun – Chichen Itza is not cheap: we paid twice, the first time 251 pesos, the second time 61 pesos, a total of 312 pesos (almost 25 dollars!!!)…. and for what? For a little less than 200 kilometers of travel. These 200 km we traveled for 3 hours, I do not know how people manage to pass them in 2 hours? We didn’t break any rules, we didn’t exceed the speed limit, we stopped once at a gas station for 5 minutes.

We arrived at the entrance to the archaeological complex of Chichen Itza at 9:30 am. There were already cars of independent travelers in the parking lot, but not as many as I thought. We bought tickets, immediately the guides started pestering us, but of course we refused them. At the entrance to the complex there is a toilet (free), souvenir stores, cafes.

The first thing that catches your eye when entering the archaeological zone is the main attraction of Chichen Itza – the pyramid of Kukulkan (or El Castillo, translated from Spanish as “the castle”).

This nine-tiered pyramid, 24 meters high, on top of which there is a temple where sacrifices were performed. The pyramid of Kukulkan is symmetrical, has four staircases. And each staircase consists of 91 steps. If quantity of steps 91 multiply on quantity of ladders 4 and add one (the top platform), we receive number 365 – number of days in a year!

The pyramid of Kukulkan is also known as the pyramid of the Feathered Serpent. Every year, in days of equinoxes, March 20 and September 21 to the pyramid of Kukulkan a lot of people come to look at one very interesting phenomenon: approximately at 3 o’clock in the afternoon the sun illuminates the main staircase of a pyramid so that shadows – triangles together similar to a tail of a snake are formed, in process of movement of the sun triangles go out and form the effect of a snake crawling down.

By the way, you can watch this spectacle at the evening light show.

We walk a little further and get to the Temple of Warriors, in front of which are a number of columns depicting Toltec warriors.

Group of a thousand columns

In general, in this part of the archaeological area of Chichen Itza is quite crowded and quiet. And the sun does not bake, it is pleasant to walk or rest under the crown of trees. Attracts the attention of the field for playing ball. It is one of the largest fields on the territory of the complex, its length is 166 meters, width is 68 meters, height of the walls is 12m. At a height of 8m stone rings are fixed. Mayan Indians played ball here. The game was called “pot-ta-pok”, they played with a rubber ball, which weighed about 4 kg and it could be beaten only with the hip. It is assumed that the game ended with a sacrifice.

On the pyramid of Kukulkan and on other ruins it is impossible to climb. They say, earlier it was possible to rise on a pyramid, but then this business forbade. Either someone fell from the pyramid, or they are just afraid that the pyramid will spoil and collapse…That’s why the walk around the complex of Chichen Itza took us not so much time – only two hours. When we headed for the exit, about 11:30, crowds of tourists began to pull up in front of us.

Local vendors have already set up their stalls with souvenirs. By the way, you can buy souvenirs here not expensive. Much cheaper than in Cancun. Here they sell a lot of interesting masks, which we did not meet anywhere else during our further traveling in Mexico. Later we regretted that we did not buy anything from souvenirs near Chichen Itza. If you need souvenirs – buy them here and be sure to bargain!

Souvenirs in Chichen Itza are for all tastes and cheaper than in Cancun

You can spend the night near the Chichen Itza complex in one of the hotels. Choose to your taste and enjoy your vacation. At the same time you can visit the archaeological complex of Chichen Itza twice: during the day to see the sights, and in the evening come to see the evening light and music show, for which you do not need to buy a separate ticket, the cost is already included in the day tickets.

Super 5 star hotels:

• Hacienda Chichen Resort and Yaxkin Spa (5 stars)
• Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows (5 stars)
• The Lodge at Chichen Itza (5 stars)

And two simpler hotels (3 stars):

• Hotel Dolores Alba Chichen Itza
• Hotel Chichen Itza

We did not spend the night near the pyramids of Chichen Itza, and went on, ahead of us was waiting for an interesting busy program, so subscribe to the newsletter of the site to be notified about new articles in the blog!

The post Pyramids of Chichen Itza – an Ancient Mayan City appeared first on MK Travel With.