Private Chichen Itza Equinox Tour
Experience a once-a-year spectacle with expert guidance, seamless service, and complete comfort.
Witness the Magic of the Equinox
Twice a year, during the Spring and Fall Equinoxes, a rare and captivating phenomenon occurs at Chichen Itza. As the afternoon light shifts between 3:00 and 5:00 PM, shadows form along the side of the Temple of Kukulkan, creating the illusion of a serpent slithering down the pyramid’s steps. This striking display is the result of precise astronomical knowledge embedded in the pyramid’s design by the ancient Maya.
The Equinox isn’t just a visual wonder — it reflects the Mayan civilization’s advanced understanding of time, light, and architecture. The alignment of the structure marks a powerful seasonal transition, and witnessing it in person is nothing short of breathtaking. The next main Equinox date is September 22, 2025, but the phenomenon can also be observed on September 21 and 23, depending on sunlight and sky conditions. That’s why we offer this exclusive afternoon tour on all three dates.
What to Expect on Your Private Chichen Itza Equinox Tour
Your experience begins with private transportation from your hotel or rental. No need to worry about driving, parking, or navigating — your personal driver ensures a comfortable and direct journey to Chichen Itza.
Upon arrival, you’ll skip the long lines with your pre-booked tickets and begin exploring with your certified private guide. You’ll receive a personalized tour through the entire archaeological site, including the Temple of the Warriors, the Ball Court, the Observatory, and more. As you walk the grounds, your guide will bring the ancient city to life, explaining the history, cultural significance, and sophisticated science behind its construction.
As the afternoon light shifts between 3:00 and 5:00 PM, we’ll take our place in front of the Pyramid of Kukulkan. During this time, the unique play of light and shadow begins — creating the illusion of a serpent descending the pyramid’s steps. This is your moment to relax, observe, and capture the Equinox phenomenon in real time. Whether you’re a photographer, history enthusiast, or simply curious, this rare event offers a truly unforgettable view..
Once the phenomenon concludes, your driver will take you back to your hotel comfortably and safely.
Why Choose Us?
We specialize in private, fully guided experiences designed to give you deeper insight and total flexibility. Our local guides are not only certified professionals, but passionate storytellers who share authentic knowledge of Mayan culture, astronomy, and history.
Unlike group tours, this is your day, at your pace. Want to spend more time at a specific temple? Prefer a break in the shade? It’s completely up to you. We’re here to make the experience stress-free and unforgettable.
All-Inclusive, No Surprises
Your private tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, a professional certified guide, and bottled water. Everything is taken care of, so you can focus entirely on the moment.
Join us for this once-a-year journey — a perfect blend of history, nature, and wonder.
If you’re interested in a morning visit instead, we also offer three early morning Chichen Itza private tours:
David –
The Equinox tour was incredible! The perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. We were in awe of the shadow effect on the pyramid! Thank you Alex
Sarah –
Our private Equinox tour on March 22 was absolutely fantastic. We had a seamless experience from start to finish. The transportation was comfortable, and our guide, Juan, was a true expert. We spent time exploring all the major structures at Chichen Itza before settling down near the pyramid to witness Equinox. The shadow of the serpent was everything we hoped for and more. We loved that we could go at our own pace and didn’t feel rushed. It felt so personal, and we left with so much knowledge and appreciation for the Mayan culture. If you’re considering this tour, do it! You won’t regret it.
Tom –
This was one of the highlights of our trip! We chose the private Equinox tour and were fortunate to be there during such a special event. The whole day felt tailored to us, with seamless pick-up from our hotel and a comfortable ride. Our guide, Cristina, was extremely well-versed in the Mayan culture, explaining everything from the history of the site to the significance of the Equinox shadow. We had plenty of time to walk around and take pictures before sitting by the pyramid to witness the phenomenal shadow effect. It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Jessica –
This private tour was amazing! We were able to see the Equinox phenomenon firsthand. The tour was stress-free, with no lines, and our guide, Arturo, made the whole experience informative and enjoyable. We even had time to relax by the pyramid and take photos while the shadow descended. It was a peaceful and memorable experience.
Julie –
Wow! What an extraordinary tour. We visited Chichen Itza on September 22nd, and were lucky enough to see the incredible Equinox shadow. Our guide Josh, was so knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the site. He made the experience even more meaningful by explaining the science and culture behind the Equinox phenomenon. We had plenty of time to explore the site and enjoy the breathtaking view of the pyramid as the serpent shadow appeared. Highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting a more intimate and in-depth experience.
Isabel –
An amazing afternoon tour of Chichen Itza! We visited on the 21st of September, and the Equinox shadow descending the pyramid was simply breathtaking. The tour was private and relaxed. Our guide Chris was very friendly and provided great insight into the history of the site. Worth every penny!
Lena –
Highly recommend! The guide was fantastic, and the Equinox event was mesmerizing.
David –
A bucket list moment! Seeing the Equinox at Chichen Itza was unforgettable. The private guide was excellent — he knew everything!
Rajesh –
We visited Chichen Itza during the March Equinox with our two children, ages 8 and 11, and it was the highlight of our Mexico trip! Arturo, our guide, was incredibly patient and explained everything in a way that fascinated the kids — from the Mayan calendar to how the pyramid casts the serpent shadow. They were engaged the entire time and still talk about it weeks later. The private setup made it relaxed and personal. Highly recommended for families!
Emily –
An unforgettable experience! Our guide was amazing, and seeing the Equinox phenomenon in person was magical. Highly recommend!
Anjali –
This was our first time visiting a historical site with our children, and Arturo made it truly special. He made the story of the Equinox come alive for our 9-year-old, who was amazed by how the light created the serpent on the pyramid. It was educational, memorable, and beautifully organized. Thank you for making history fun for the whole family!
Shirley –
We’ve always wanted to see Chichen Itza, but witnessing the Equinox in person was beyond our expectations. Our guide shared incredible insights about the Mayan calendar and the history behind the phenomenon. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the private tour made it all the more special. Truly worth it!