Mayan Ruins: Chichen Itza
By: Elijah Bailey
Ecotourism
Ecotourism is having people coming in to see environments that are very unique. It is a very important part of the economy in Central America, which has a very diverse environment. Many people tour Central America for just for the interesting sights.
The Ruins
The Mayan ruins attract many people year round. The abandoned Pyramid Chichen Itza is one of the most well known sights. This was believed to once be a religious temple. It was believed to have been built where it was due to two large sinkholes. One stored water throughout the year, while the other was believed to be for human sacrifice.
Tourism of the Pyramid
Touring this Pyramid benefits the economy because of profit they receive per tour, anywhere from $65 to $155 dollars a tour per person. It is also located near Cancun, another famous travel destination, so it gets more tours than most other ruins. More than 1.2 million people visit the site every year.