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One of the most common questions from visitors to Chichen Itza is, “Can you climb Chichen Itza?” The answer is a definitive no. Climbing the ancient Pyramid of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo, has been strictly prohibited since 2008 to protect the structure and preserve its historical and cultural significance.
Recently, footage of tourists attempting to climb the pyramid has gone viral, sparking discussions about why this rule exists and the consequences of breaking it. Here’s everything you need to know about why climbing Chichen Itza is forbidden and why respecting these regulations is crucial.
The Pyramid of Kukulkan is one of the most iconic landmarks of the ancient Mayan civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built over 1,000 years ago, the pyramid holds immense historical, cultural, and architectural value.
Allowing visitors to climb the structure caused significant wear and tear over the years. Foot traffic eroded the stone steps, damaging the pyramid’s integrity and increasing the risk of irreversible harm. The decision to ban climbing ensures that the pyramid remains intact for future generations to admire and study.
The pyramid’s steep steps make climbing a risky activity. Before the ban, there were numerous reports of visitors losing their footing and sustaining injuries. The prohibition on climbing not only protects the structure but also safeguards visitors from potential accidents.
Climbing Chichen Itza is not just discouraged—it’s illegal. Mexico’s Federal Law on Monuments and Archaeological Zones (Ley Federal sobre Monumentos y Zonas Arqueológicas) outlines strict penalties for damaging or altering historical structures.
As of 2025, individuals caught climbing the pyramid face fines ranging from 55,760 MXN to 278,800 MXN (approximately $3,200 to $16,000 USD). These penalties aim to deter behavior that could harm Chichen Itza’s cultural heritage.
A recent incident involved visitors being filmed ascending the pyramid, resulting in significant outrage from locals and social media users alike.
In such cases, offenders are typically detained by site authorities and handed over to local law enforcement. In addition to paying hefty fines, these individuals often face criticism for their disregard of cultural preservation.
The Pyramid of Kukulkan is more than a tourist attraction—it’s a sacred site for the Maya. The pyramid aligns with astronomical events, such as the equinoxes, demonstrating the advanced knowledge of the Mayan civilization. Disrespecting the site by climbing it disregards its cultural and spiritual importance.
As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza represents not only Mexico’s heritage but also a shared global legacy. Preserving this site ensures that people from all over the world can continue to learn about and appreciate the achievements of the Maya.
While climbing the pyramid is off-limits, there are plenty of ways to experience and appreciate Chichen Itza:
Can you climb Chichen Itza? The answer is a resounding no, and for good reason. The prohibition ensures the preservation of one of the world’s most treasured archaeological sites and respects its cultural significance.
As visitors, it’s our responsibility to honor the rules and contribute to the conservation of Chichen Itza. By doing so, we help safeguard this incredible piece of history for future generations to learn from and admire.
So, the next time you visit Chichen Itza, admire the Pyramid of Kukulkan from the ground and appreciate its grandeur and history with respect and care.