Sunrise at Chichen Itza

The alarm buzzed at an ungodly hour, but the promise of an early morning adventure at Chichen Itza was enough to get me out of bed. As a surfer, I’m no stranger to early starts, chasing the perfect wave before the crowds hit the beach. This time, though, it wasn’t the ocean calling, but the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza. My wife and I, both seasoned travelers, were eager to explore this wonder of the world without the throngs of tourists.

Our guide, Marco, was a breath of fresh air. His enthusiasm was infectious, and his knowledge of Mayan history was impressive. As we arrived at the site, the sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden hue over the iconic El Castillo. It was a surreal experience, standing in the shadow of such a magnificent structure with only a handful of people around. Marco’s stories brought the ancient city to life, and I couldn’t help but draw parallels between the Mayans’ deep connection to nature and my own love for the ocean.

Discovering Yaxunah

After soaking in the tranquility of Chichen Itza, we made a brief stop at Yaxunah, a lesser-known but equally fascinating Mayan city. Still in the process of being uncovered, Yaxunah offered a glimpse into the past, with its ruins whispering tales of a bygone era. Listening to the local Mayan people speak in their native tongue, with Marco translating, was a humbling experience. It reminded me of the small, off-the-beaten-path surf spots I’ve discovered over the years, where the locals share their stories and traditions with a warmth that makes you feel at home.

The journey continued with a stop for lunch at a restaurant that, at first glance, seemed like a typical tourist trap. However, the aroma of cochinita pibil cooking in the traditional way—buried in the ground—was enough to change my mind. The meal was a delightful surprise, much like finding an unexpected perfect wave on a seemingly ordinary day.

A Dip in the Cenote

The final leg of our adventure took us to a cenote, a natural sinkhole filled with crystal-clear water. As a surfer, I’m always drawn to water, and this cenote was no exception. The beauty of the place was breathtaking, and the chance to swim in its cool waters felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Marco’s timing was impeccable, ensuring we arrived when the crowds were minimal, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the moment.

Before heading back, we indulged in a quick tequila tasting. While it was clearly a sales pitch, I couldn’t complain about a free sample of Mexico’s finest. As we boarded the bus for the return journey, I reflected on the day’s adventures. Much like catching the perfect wave, this tour was all about timing and being in the right place at the right time. If you’re ever in Cancun, I highly recommend this tour for an unforgettable experience.