Planning a trip to Chichen Itza? You’re in for a treat. This world-famous archaeological site is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—and it’s just a few hours from Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen.
Before you go, let’s break down what the weather is like at Chichen Itza so you can plan your visit wisely.
What is the Weather Today in Chichen Itza?
What Is the Weather Like in Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza is located in the Yucatán Peninsula and has a tropical savanna climate. That means it’s hot for most of the year with distinct dry and rainy seasons. Expect daytime temperatures ranging from 80°F to 95°F (27°C to 35°C) depending on the time of year.
Dry Season (November to May)
This is the best time to visit Chichen Itza. Skies are mostly clear, and temperatures are warm but not scorching. Highs range from **82°F to 90°F (28°C to 32°C)**, and there’s very little rain—perfect for walking around the expansive ruins and soaking in the history.
December through February are especially comfortable, though popular with tourists.
March through May are still dry but warmer—bring sunscreen and water!
Rainy Season (June to October)
Rainy season in Chichen Itza doesn’t mean all-day rain, but there’s a higher chance of brief, heavy showers—especially in the afternoons. Temperatures are higher too, often hitting 95°F (35°C) with high humidity. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
June is hot, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F). Humidity starts to rise, so sightseeing can feel intense.
July and August are very hot and humid. These months bring sticky air and frequent afternoon storms—be prepared with light clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and lots of water.
September and October are the wettest months. These months fall within the Atlantic hurricane season, so while hurricanes are rare inland, it’s wise to check forecasts before visiting. Expect muddy paths and bring a poncho or umbrella.
Chichen Itza Weather by Month
3-Day Weather Forecast Chichen Itza:
Best Time to Visit Chichen Itza Based on Weather
Best Months to Visit Chichen Itza
The best time of year to visit Chichen Itza is during the dry season, from November to April.
These months offer the most pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 26°C and 30°C (79°F–86°F) and lower humidity. January, February, and March are especially popular thanks to the cooler air and clear skies—ideal conditions for walking among the ruins and taking in the beauty of this ancient site without being overwhelmed by heat or rain.
While December and Easter weeks can be crowded due to holiday tourism, the weather still makes them great months to visit if you’re comfortable with a livelier atmosphere.
On the other hand, the rainy season from June to October brings hotter, more humid conditions and frequent afternoon showers, especially in September and October, which are also the wettest months. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, it’s still doable—just be sure to dress light, bring a poncho, and pack plenty of water.
Best Time of Day to Visit Chichen Itza
The best time of day to visit Chichen Itza is as early in the morning as possible, ideally arriving right at opening time (8:00 AM).
Not only will you beat the heat, but you’ll also avoid the large crowds and tour buses that typically arrive mid-morning to noon.
By midday, temperatures often climb above 34°C (93°F) with strong sun exposure and high humidity, which can be exhausting—especially if you’re visiting with young children, older adults, or anyone sensitive to heat.
Exploring early means walking shaded paths in cooler air, capturing better photos in softer morning light, and enjoying a quieter, more peaceful experience.
Plus, the archaeological site has minimal shade, so visiting in the early hours significantly reduces the risk of sunburn, dehydration, and overheating.
Practical Tips for Visiting Chichen Itza
To make the most of your visit to Chichen Itza, come prepared for both the weather and the walking. The site is large and mostly exposed to the sun, with minimal shaded areas, so sun protection is essential.
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin throughout the day. Don’t forget your sunglasses—the sunlight reflecting off stone structures can be intense.
Staying hydrated is a top priority, especially during warmer months. Bring plenty of bottled water, and if you’re visiting in the rainy season or hotter months, consider adding electrolytes to help your body cope with the heat and humidity.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking sandals with good support—the terrain includes uneven stones, gravel paths, and open plazas, and you’ll likely walk several kilometers during your visit.
You may also want to bring mosquito repellent during the rainy season.
The best Private Tours to Chichen Itza
Booking a private tour to Chichen Itza is one of the best ways to explore the site in comfort and on your own terms.
Unlike large group tours, private tours offer the flexibility to go at your own pace, take breaks as needed —especially important during the hotter months.
In addition, most private tours start early in the morning, allowing you to beat the crowds, enjoy cooler temperatures, and make the most of the limited shaded areas before the sun gets too intense.
You can also choose the tour that suits your interests:
– A Chichen Itza-only tour is great if you want to focus solely on the ruins.
– A Chichen Itza + Valladolid tour combines history with a visit to a charming colonial town.
– A Chichen Itza + cenote tour is ideal in the warmer months, as it includes a stop to swim and cool off in a refreshing cenote after exploring the ruins.
Overall, a private tour not only gives you more comfort and flexibility—it also makes your visit to Chichen Itza more enjoyable and memorable.
Chichen Itza Weather FAQ
🌡️ What is the typical temperature at Chichen Itza during visiting hours?
The temperature at Chichen Itza during opening hours (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) can vary significantly depending on the season.
During the dry season, which runs from November to May, mornings are generally pleasant. From 8:00 to 11:00 AM, temperatures typically range between 22°C and 27°C (72°F–81°F), with moderate humidity.
As the day progresses into the early afternoon, temperatures rise to around 28°C to 32°C (82°F–90°F). This is still manageable for most visitors, especially if you arrive early and stick to shaded areas when possible.
In contrast, the rainy or hot season from June to October brings much higher temperatures and humidity. From the moment the site opens at 8:00 AM, it’s already warm—expect 26°C to 30°C (79°F–86°F) in the morning. By midday and into the afternoon (12:00 to 5:00 PM), it often reaches 31°C to 35°C (88°F–95°F), and can feel even hotter due to the intense sun and high humidity levels. The “feels like” temperature is often several degrees higher, making it quite uncomfortable for long walks in the open sun.
Because midday is the hottest part of the day, it’s highly recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid heat exhaustion. This is especially important when traveling with young children or older adults, as the heat can be harsh and there is very little shade throughout the site.
Starting your visit as close to 8:00 AM as possible ensures cooler air, fewer crowds, and a more enjoyable experience overall.
🕗 What are Chichen Itza’s opening hours?
Chichen Itza is open every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry allowed around 4:00 PM.
To make the most of your visit, we recommend arriving early—especially in hot or busy seasons.
👉 Read our full article about Chichen Itza opening hours.
🎫 How much is the entrance fee to Chichen Itza?
The entrance fee includes both a federal and state charge and may vary slightly depending on the season.
👉 Check our full guide to Chichen Itza entrance fees for the latest rates and details.
💻 Can I buy Chichen Itza tickets online?
No, Chichen Itza tickets are not available for direct online purchase through official channels.
👉 Read our article on how to get Chichen Itza tickets for tips on the best way to buy your entry.
🔥 Is it too hot to visit Chichen Itza in summer?
Summer months (May–August) can be very hot and humid, with temperatures often above 34°C (93°F). If you’re visiting during this time, plan to arrive early, wear light clothing, and stay hydrated. A swim in a cenote afterward is a great way to cool down!
👨👩👧 Is Chichen Itza safe for kids and seniors in hot weather?
Yes, but extra care is needed. Midday heat can be intense, so early morning visits are highly recommended for young children and older adults.
