Chichen Itza: the first wonder of the world I visited with my son

There are places you think you know… until you see them again with fresh eyes.

I’ve visited Chichén Itzá many times. On tours, alone, with friends. But this time was different. This time I went as a dad.

It was the summer of 2025. Vacation time. My 13-year-old son lives in the Dominican Republic. He was born in Cancún, but since he was six months old, his life has been built far from Mexico. And that detail, though it may seem small, changes everything. Because this trip wasn’t just about tourism: it was about identity, history, and a dream come true.

Chichén Itzá would be the first of the seven wonders of the world that we would visit together. And without knowing it, it would also be one of the most exciting experiences that traveling has given me.

The journey begins before you arrive: the Maya Train

For him, it was his first train ride. For me, it was a new way to reach a place I thought I knew by heart.

The Maya Train was comfortable, easy to use, and very user-friendly, even traveling with teenagers. From the very beginning of the journey, you feel that it's not just a means of transportation, but part of the experience. Seeing their excitement as they boarded the train, taking in the scenery, and knowing we were headed to a wonder of the world… that alone made the trip worthwhile.

Real traveler tip: If you can combine the Maya Train with your visit to Chichen Itza, do it. Especially if you're traveling with family. It reduces stress and creates lasting memories.

The First Glimpse: Surprise and a Dream Fulfilled

When El Castillo appears before you, it always commands respect. But this time, my reaction was different.

I wasn't thinking about facts, dates, or architecture. I was watching my son.

His face was one of absolute admiration, almost of bewilderment. He didn't need to say anything. The silence said it all. That moment when you understand that he's seeing something bigger than himself… and that you were part of bringing him there.

For me, it was a dream come true. Not because I was in Chichén—I had already done that—but because I was sharing it with him.

Chichén Itzá Seen from Another Perspective: Now I Was the Guide

Something curious happened that day. Despite having visited Chichén Itzá several times, it was as if it were the first time.

But not because I didn't know where I was… but because now I was explaining, pointing things out, telling stories. I was the guide.

And that completely changes the experience. When you explain a place to someone you love, you rediscover it too.

Each pyramid, each space, each Mayan story took on new meaning. It wasn't about repeating information; it was about translating history into emotion.

The real part no one tells you (but you should know)

Chichen Itza is not a leisurely stroll. And that's okay to say.

It's very hot.

There are a lot of people, especially during peak hours.

You walk quite a bit.

Be prepared:

Plenty of water

Light clothing

Comfortable shoes (not new ones)

A hat or cap

PRO tip from an experienced traveler: If you're traveling alone or have flexibility, don't go where everyone else is going. Walking against the flow allows you to:

Avoid crowds

Take better photos

Experience the site more calmly

A great ending: Hacienda Xaybeh

After the heat, the walking, and the excitement, came one of the best moments of the day.

Just 10 minutes from Chichen Itza is Hacienda Xaybeh. A perfect place to end your experience:

Buffet-style meal

Spacious grounds

Ideal for relaxing

Excellent option if you're traveling with family or in a group

What you truly take away from Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is not just a wonder of the world. It's a reminder.

Of whom you are. Where you come from. And how important it is to share these places with the right people.

I thought I already knew Chichen. But no… I hadn't experienced it as a dad yet.

If you've already visited Chichen Itza, tell me in the comments: who did you go with and what do you remember most?

And if you haven't been… who would you like to share that first time with?