Red House (Chichanchob)
Chichen Itza, Mexico, 97751
The Red House (Chichanchob) at Chichen Itza is an ancient residential structure with remnants of red paint that decorated the inner walls. It’s believed to have been the former residence of high-ranking Maya and features intricate carvings and murals that provide insight into the culture and daily practices of this ancient civilization.
The basics
Explore the Red House as part of the broader Chichen Itza complex; it’s a lesser-known but still captivating element of the archaeological site. Consider booking a guided tour to fully appreciate its history and significance, or visit on your own by purchasing tickets to the site at the entrance—bring cash. Other Chichen Itza highlights include El Castillo, the Temple of the Warriors, The Ossuary, and the Caracol observatory, which is located near the Red House.
Things to know before you go
Chichen Itza is expansive, so wear comfortable footwear suitable for uneven terrain.
The main areas of Chichen Itza have wheelchair-accessible pathways, designated rest areas, and well-maintained facilities.
Climbing the structures within the site is prohibited.
Wear sunscreen and a hat, and bring water to stay hydrated.
How to get there
The Red House is located near the central area of Chichen Itza, accessible on foot after entering through the main entrance. It’s typically included in self-guided and guided tours of the site. Chichen Itza is about a 2.5-hour drive from Cancun, or you can take a bus from major nearby cities. Most guided tours include round-trip transportation for a convenient, hassle-free option.
When to get there
Morning is generally the best time to visit the Red House and Chichen Itza, to avoid the crowds and the afternoon heat. Sunrise tours are also available for an atmospheric experience. Visiting during the dry season from November to April will offer the most comfortable weather, with less chance of rain.
El Caracol
El Caracol is an ancient observatory known for its spiral staircase and celestial alignment, which is located not far from the Red House. This unique structure helped the Maya track events such as solstices, while its windows are aligned with the movement of Venus, which was significant to the Maya as it was considered the sun’s twin.
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