Chichen Itza equinox serpent: next dates and times
Short answer: The next Chichen Itza equinox serpent is on 20 Mar 2027 (sunset 18:07 · best from 16:07, local time). In 2027 the dates are 20 Mar 2027 and 23 Sep 2027.
Around the equinoxes, the late-afternoon sun casts triangles of light down the north staircase of El Castillo, forming a serpent body that joins the carved snake heads at the base.
Upcoming dates
| Date | What | Time (local) |
|---|---|---|
| Sat 20 Mar 2027 | March equinox | Sunset 18:07 · best from 16:07 |
| Thu 23 Sep 2027 | September equinox | Sunset 17:51 · best from 15:51 |
| Sun 19 Mar 2028 | March equinox | Sunset 18:07 · best from 16:07 |
| Fri 22 Sep 2028 | September equinox | Sunset 17:52 · best from 15:52 |
| Tue 20 Mar 2029 | March equinox | Sunset 18:07 · best from 16:07 |
| Sat 22 Sep 2029 | September equinox | Sunset 17:52 · best from 15:52 |
Where to stand
Stand on the north-west side of El Castillo. The pattern builds in the last two hours before sunset.
The days around each equinox show it too and are far less crowded. Entry closes before sunset, so plan for the hour after 15:30.
Questions
When is Chichen Itza equinox serpent 2027?
The next Chichen Itza equinox serpent is on 20 Mar 2027 (sunset 18:07 · best from 16:07, local time). In 2027 the dates are 20 Mar 2027 and 23 Sep 2027.
Where is the best place to see Chichen Itza equinox serpent?
Stand on the north-west side of El Castillo. The pattern builds in the last two hours before sunset.
Does weather matter for Chichen Itza equinox serpent?
Yes: you need a clear view of the western horizon. The days around each equinox show it too and are far less crowded. Entry closes before sunset, so plan for the hour after 15:30.
Calculated from the sun's position (Meeus) for Yucatán, Mexico; times are local (America/Merida). Buildings, hills and haze can shift what you see by a few minutes.