Self-Guided Audio Tour - Chichen Itza, the Greatness of the Mayas

This is a self-guided audio tour of Chichén Itzá, narrated by Kukulkán, the feathered serpent god of the ancient Maya civilization. Instead of a human guide, you follow a 3D sound experience on your own smartphone and headphones, at your own pace inside the archaeological site. The listed duration is 60 minutes.

The narrator helps you understand the origins and history of the Popol Vuh, the sacred book of the Maya. According to the operator, the serpent narrates it while explaining the traditions and ways of life of the Maya, and the 3D sound is meant to let your imagination take you on a journey through the site.

You begin at the main castle of Kukulkán, where, if you follow the instructions carefully and clap your hands, you can hear the song of the quetzal. The tour continues to the Temple of Venus and the Warrior Temple, then the Tzompantli and the High Jaguar Temple. You also learn about the great ball game, in which the rulers of Xibalbá marveled at the skill of the twins.

The listing describes the site as one of the seven modern wonders and as proof of the greatness of the Maya civilization, with advances in science and even sport. The audio invites you to listen, follow the voice and imagine what life was like at that time, including the importance of the ball game for the Maya.

The experience is wheelchair accessible, allows service animals and welcomes infants and small children in a pram or stroller. It suits all fitness levels, and public transportation is nearby. The price covers the audio chapters, which work offline, plus maps and tips to explore some of the best spots.

You need to bring your own smartphone and headsets, and the site admission ticket is not included, and neither are snacks. Because the tour works offline, you can download it before you arrive. The listing does not give a meeting point, so check the instructions you receive after booking.