Things to Do in Cancun

Choose from 40 Fun Things to Do in Cancun

Xplor Adventure Park

Set in the middle of the Yucatan jungle, Xplor Adventure Park allows visitors to experience Mexico’s environmental treasures firsthand. Here you can raft down a stalactite-filled underground river, swim in cenotes, ride in an amphibious vehicle, or zipline above the canopy. There’s also a nighttime option to explore after dark.

The Basics

Xplor Adventure park is a popular day trip destination from Mexico’s Riviera Maya region. Tours are available from Playa del Carmen and Cancun, with most lasting upwards of seven hours for a full day at the park. Some combination excursions also visit nearby attractions such as the Tulum or Chichen Itza ruins. Basic admission includes access to the park’s attractions and facilities plus unlimited snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and a lunch buffet.

Xplor is part of a network of related parks and experiences, including Xcaret, Xel-Hal, Xplor Fuego, Xenotes Oasis Maya, Xoximilco Cancun, Xichen, and Xenses. Packages including admission to multiple parks are available.

Things to Know Before You Go

Bring sneakers, biodegradable sunblock, water shoes, a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of clothes.
Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for physical activity.
Lockers, Wi-Fi, and parking are included.
Life jackets and helmets are provided for applicable attractions.
Minimum age to enter Xplor is six years old, and minimum age to drive amphibious vehicles is 18 (a valid driver’s license is required).
For ziplining, the minimum height required is 3.6 feet (one meter). The minimum weight is 88 pounds (40 kilograms), while the maximum is 300 pounds (136 kilograms).

How to Get There

Xplor Adventure Park is located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, roughly 20 minutes by road from downtown Playa del Carmen and 1.5 hours by road from Cancun. Most Xplor tours include round-trip transportation from Cancun and Riviera Maya-area hotels. While there, all activities are contained within the park.

When to Get There

The park opens at 9am and closes at 5pm for daytime admission. Nighttime tours start at 5pm and typically last seven hours. The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms.

Visit Xplor After Dark: Xplor Fuego

Xplor Fuego night adventure tours provide an extra thrill and allow you to safely experience the Riviera Maya jungle after dark. The evening crowd arrives after 5pm, ready to don headlamps and explore the park’s jungles and rivers by moonlight. Access includes the same activities as daytime admission—just with a different perspective.

Carr. Cancun-Chetumal KM 282, Solidaridad, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo 77710, Mexico

$108

From $ 90

Sayil

Sayil is a distinguished Mayan ruins site in the Puuc Hills of the Yucatan, located a short drive from the larger ruins of Uxmal. Sayil is a part of the same UNESCO World Heritage site as Uxmal and is a prominent Mayan ruin due to its royal origins. It is believed that Sayil was once ruled by a royal dynasty, and the palace ruins on its grounds are still impressive to behold today. Visitors can wander through the ruins and also make a stop at the observatory, another of Sayil's top sites.

It is estimated that Sayil was settled around 800 AD and at one point had a population that reached upwards of 10,000. Visitors to Sayil can soak up this ancient history and get a feel for what life was like during the time of the Mayans while steering clear of the larger crowds at some of the other more popular Mayan sites. The site's jungle location also adds to the exotic, off-the-beaten-path allure.

Practical Info

Sayil is located south of the city of Merida, about a two-hour drive away.

Sayil, The Yucatan, Mexico

From $ 1,054

Playa Delfines

Playa Delfines is a welcome respite from the crowded beaches and bustling nightclubs that make Cancun a popular Spring Break destination. One of the highest points in the city, this beach lies just beyond the “Hotel Zone” strip and offers breathtaking views perfect for tropical vacation photo ops. The quiet stretch of sand is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing lounge and the untouched nature of Playa Delfines makes it a favorite among travelers eager to get off the beaten path. Be advised, its rustic feel means there are few places to purchase food or drink, so it’s best to pack your own. And while the shores are calm, the undercurrent can be rough and waves impressive, so proceed with caution when dipping your toes in the ocean here.

Practical Info

Playa Delfines is about 18 kilometers from El Centro and accessible by taxi or local bus from the ADO station. The beach also offers free public parking, though spots can be hard to find.

Cancun, Mexico

From $ 15

Xenses Park

Using the natural surrounding of Mexico's Riviera Maya, Xenses Park lets visitors lose themselves in the sounds and sights of optical illusions. The park's vision involves the fascinating neurological phenomena known as synesthesia, where a single sense has the ability to suddenly stimulate another. Colors seem to be heard, sounds felt and smells seem to be tasted.

At Xenses Park, waterfalls thunder by underground labyrinths and ziplines crisscross the trees, while pools, water slides and animal exhibits accompany 3D movies. Throughout a half-day experience, travelers will take delight in questioning what is real and what is instead just a product of stimulated senses. Opened in 2016, Xenses Park allows visitors to experience something outside the norm of regular, adrenaline-fueled theme parks, and pair the adventure with mind-bending features that must be seen to be believed.

Practical Info

Xenses Park can be visited on tours from both Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It is three miles from Playa del Carmen and 45 miles from Cancun, while offering free parking for travelers who choose to visit the park on their own. All travelers should bring a swimsuit or clothes they don't mind getting wet. Some activities, such as ziplines, may have height or weight requirements.

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Mon–Sat

Adults $59, kids 5–11 $29

From $ 100

Selvatica

Long rated the top outdoor activity in Cancun, Selvatica adventure park gives visitors the chance to shake up their beach routine with ziplines, off-road tours, a cenote dive, and more. Selvatica provides the perfect action-packed day trip from Cancun, just an hour north, and offers customizable options for the whole family.

The Basics

Visitors to Selvatica will find a number of adventurous options for exploring the jungle of southern Mexico. Choose from à la carte adventures, or opt for combo tours that roll multiple activities into one action-packed day. Every tour includes the Extreme Canopy zipline circuit with standard cables and the Cenote Splash, a zipline cable that ends with a cenote swim inside a natural sinkhole. Up the adrenaline with add-ons like the Offroad Polaris tour, ATV rides, or the Gimmee All with access to the extreme Human Roller-Coaster and Flying Superman ziplines. As an extra perk, Selvatica offers complimentary round-trip transportation from most Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya hotels for the ultimate convenience.

Things to Know Before You Go

Allow at least five hours door-to-door for your Selvatica experience.
Ziplines have a weight limit of 330 pounds (150 kilograms).
Bring swimming gear and a change of clothes.
Lockers are available for an additional fee.

How to Get There

Selvatica offers complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off from most major regional hotels as part of most tours. Those wishing to drive themselves, though, will find it is an easy 1-hour trip from Cancun.

When to Get There

The park is open year-round, and multiple tour departure times are available throughout the day. December through April offers the best weather; it can be rainy other times of year.

Mar 16, 4, Cancún, Q.R., Mexico, Mexico

Varies

From $ 99

Xenotes Oasis Maya

Nature and outdoor enthusiasts should not miss a trip to the Xenotes Oasis Maya park, where four completely contrasting water deposits are connected to a system of underground rivers and streams. Each cenote has their own personality, offering different landscapes and a whole host of adventure activities to enjoy.

K'áak ́ Fire Xenote

K'áak ́ is an open cenote with lush plant life adorning its vertical walls. Enjoy its mysterious emerald waters by jumping in a kayak and paddling around its perimeters, or admire the beautiful scenery as you float along in an inner tube.

Lu'um Earth Xenote

A stunning hidden cave cenote, Lu’um is formed by a large vault of stalactites with only a small opening at the top, through which the sunlight filters in and reflects upon the turquoise water. Thrill seekers will enjoy rappelling down the stone walls and into the inviting waters below.

Ha' Water Xenote

Ha’ is a semiopen cenote featuring fascinating rock formations and an abundance of diverse fauna and aquatic life. Grab a snorkel and explore an underwater world filled with exotic fish and waterlily gardens.

Lik’ Wind Xenote

Known for its cylindrical shape and lush vegetation, the limestone walls of this ancient cenote have now fully collapsed, providing an impressively dramatic landscape. Clip in and soar above the water on a highoctane zip line ride, before plunging in for a refreshing swim in the gentle currents.

Insider’s Tip: The activities at Xenotes Oasis Maya are family friendly and suitable for children over the age of six years old. (A minimum height of 4.5 ft. and a minimum weight of 88 lbs is required for ziplining.)

Practical Info

The park is located between Cancun and Puerto Morelos, and most people visit on an organized tour from Playa del Carmen, with an experienced guide, food, and roundtrip transportation included.

Boulevard Kukulcan, Km 15, Cancun, Mexico

Dependent on tour

From $ 90

Uxmal

The well-preserved Maya ruins at Uxmal are considered some of the most beautiful in the Yucatan. Temple-pyramids, quadrangles, and a large ball court dot the archaeological site. Highlights include the Great Pyramid and the unusually rounded Pyramid of the Magician. A nightly light and sound show brings the magic of Uxmal to life.

The Basics

Travelers to Riviera Maya and Yucatan shouldn’t miss Uxmal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its decorative Puuc style of Maya architecture. Visit Uxmal independently or on a hassle-free day trip from Merida or Cancun with round-trip transport. Prebook skip-the-line admission tickets for ease, or visit in the afternoon and stay for the evening Uxmal Light and Sound Show. To see more ruins, take a combo tour that visits multiple Maya sites and includes transportation.

Things to Know Before You Go

Avoid the long ticket lines when you prebook your Uxmal ruins admission.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
Bring sun protection and plenty of water, as there is little shade at the ruins.
Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during high season.

How to Get There

There are several ways to reach Uxmal, located on the Gulf of Mexico side of the Yucatan Peninsula. Buses depart from downtown Merida, or, if you're driving, Uxmal is off highway 261, south of Merida. Highway 261 travels along the Puuc Route (Ruta Puuc).

When to Get There

Uxmal archaeological site is open daily. Arrive early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds and avoid midday heat. Sunday is typically a busy day at the ruins, as admission is free for local residents.

Puuc Route

Named for its Maya ruins, the Puuc Route runs along Highway 261 and links Uxmal with three other Puuc-style archaeological sites—Kabal, Sayil, and Labna. In addition to Maya ruins, you also find several small artisan villages, historic haciendas, and hidden cenotes along this well-traveled route that winds through a hilly area of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Merida–Campeche Highway 26, Uxmal 97844, Mexico

Open daily

From $ 19

Xoximilco

Xoxomilco, whose name means “garden of flowers” in the ancient Aztec language, is Cancun’s homage to the floating gardens and canals of Mexico City’s famous Xochimilco neighborhood. Here, visitors can experience a number of Central American traditions, including floating boats strung with flowers, live music, and regional food.

The Basics

Most Xoximilco tours leave from central Cancun and include pickup and drop-off from local hotels. At the park, you can float down the river in a Mexican gondola, or trajinera, enjoy a meal of traditional Mexican food, sip tequila and beer, and listen to traditional mariachi and marimba music.

Xoximilco Cancun is part of a network of related parks and experiences, including Xcaret, Xel-Hal, Xplor Fuego, Xplor, Xenotes Oasis Maya, Xoximilco Cancun, Xichen, and Xenses. You can purchase packages granting admission to multiple parks.

Things to Know Before You Go

Xoximilco Cancun is a must-see attraction for culture and nightlife lovers.
The park is located in the jungle, so be sure to plan for mosquitos; wear long pants and closed-toed shoes, and bring plenty of biodegradable insect repellent.
Valet parking is available onsite.
Wheelchair service is available; all boats are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Xoximilco is located about five minutes by road from Cancun International Airport. While most tours provide round-trip transportation from your hotel, you can also take a taxi or drive yourself.

When to Get There

The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm; there are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October). Nights at Xoximilco are particularly magical.

Mexico City’s Xochimilco Neighborhood

The floating gardens of Xochimilco are a Mexico City must-see; the quintessential way to explore is a traditional trajinera boat ride around the canals and islands. Combine it with a Mexico City sightseeing tour, which will include the National University of Mexico, the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan, and the the neighborhood of Coyoacán, home to the Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum and the Frida Kahlo Museum.

Cancun, Mexico

From $ 90

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

A stunning landscape of tropical jungle, mangrove forests, and crystalline waters, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Rich biodiversity, ecoadventures, and a collection of Maya ruins draw visitors to the reserve, which stretches 75 miles (120 kilometers) along the Riviera Maya.

The Basics

The area’s ecological diversity is the biggest draw to vast Sian Ka’an, which, at 1 million acres (404,686 hectares), is the largest protected area on the Mexican Caribbean. Ride a boat through the lagoons of Boca Paila and Caapechen for opportunities to spot animals like spider monkeys, crocodiles, flamingos, ocelots, and pumas in their natural habitat along the shore. Or take a snorkeling tour on the world’s second-largest barrier reef, home to more than 500 species of fish as well as dolphins and marine turtles. Other popular activities include kayak tours, paddleboarding, fly fishing, and visits to Maya archaeological sites including the El Castillo temple and the ancient trading post of Muyil, located among the mangrove forests. Guided tours and private tours help you see more of the reserve’s attractions in a limited amount of time.

Things to Know Before You Go

Sian Ka’an is a top Tulum area attraction and a must for nature lovers. It’s also an ideal family outing, popular with kids and adults alike.
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes.
Many guided tours include pickup and drop-off at Tulum or Playa del Carmen hotels.
Boat rides can be bumpy, so medicine is advised for those who are prone to motion sickness.

How to Get There

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is located just south of Tulum on the southeast coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) south of Cancun. Access points to the park are at Tulum (Punta Allen or Muyil), Chumpón, and Pulticub. Though the easiest way to get to the reserve is on a guided tour that includes transportation from regional hotels, independent travelers can also drive.

When to Get There

Tulum’s rainy season lasts from roughly June through November, so it is advised to visit outside of those months. Otherwise, the weather is mild and summery year-round.

Sian Ka’an’s Maya Roots

Sian Ka’an translates to “Origin of the Sky” in the Mayan dialect of those who originally lived here. In addition to seeing Maya ruins, visitors can float down a 1,000-year-old canal leftover from the Maya kingdom once located here.

Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico, Mexico

From $ 115

Ventura Park

This beachfront amusement park near Cancún, is a popular, family-friendly destination. It’s divided into different sections, including Wet’n Wild, Underworld, Aah!Ventura, Grand Prix, Fun World, and Dolphinaris, each of which offers attractions such as waterslides, ziplines, dolphin encounters, go-karts, a high-tech arcade, and more.

The Basics

Ventura Park’s “worlds” provide a range of activities. Wet’n Wild features waterslides and a lazy river. In Aah!Ventura, visitors cross hanging bridges and swing along ziplines. Dolphinaris offers encounters with trained dolphins. A laser-tag arena and cutting-edge arcade are found in the Underworld. Fun World’s kid-friendly activities include a small rollercoaster and merry-go-round. And drivers race go-karts inside Grand Prix. A variety of ticket package options are available, including one with all-inclusive food and drink.

Things to Know Before You Go

Some attractions in Aah!Ventura, Underworld, Fun World, and Grand Prix are not recommended for people with disabilities, but the park is wheelchair-accessible.
The park offers Wi-Fi hot spots, dressing rooms, and bathrooms, and lockers and towels are available to rent.
Secure loose items like hats, jewelry, or glasses, as they may fall out during rides.

How to Get There

Ventura Park is located in Cancún’s hotel zone, and the parking is free. The park provides a free transportation shuttle to and from the park for guests staying within the hotel zone. It also offers transportation from designated pickup spots in Playa del Carmen and Cancún for a fee.

When to Get There

The daytime ticket offers access to the park from 10am to 5:30pm, while a night ticket is valid 5:30pm to 11pm (night tickets are only available during certain months). Arrive in the morning and during the week to avoid large crowds. The offseason means fewer tourists, too.

The Cancún Underwater Museum

Located off the coast of Cancún, the underwater museum has a collection of more than 500 sunken sculptures that lie between depths of 9 and 20 feet. Visitors can view these artworks by snorkeling or diving. Glass-bottom boat tours also offer a unique view of the unusual exhibit, which was built to help conserve the area’s reefs and create new homes for fish to flourish.

Km. 25 Kukulcan Blvd, Cancun 77500, Mexico

Varies

From $ 65

Hospitality Suite at Chichen Itza

Located within the Mayaland resort, the Viator Hospitality Suite at Chichen Itza is an exclusive space for Viator travelers embarking on selected tours to the ancient site. Depending on the type of tour you choose, you can freshen up in the air-conditioned suite before and after your visit to the famous Mayan ruins. A concierge service is also on hand to offer information and suggestions on the best things to see, do and eat in the area.

Additionally, as a Viator guest, you'll enjoy free use of the resort facilities, including the swimming pools and botanical gardens, plus get special access to Chichen Itza via a private entrance from the hotel.

Travelers have a variety of options when it comes to experiencing both Chichen Itza and the Hospitality Suite. Some full-day tours from Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Merida and Cancun allow visitors to fully uncover the mysteries of the ancient Mayan civilization and include a stop at the suite, while other tour options allow you to choose whether you'd like to explore the site at your own pace, opt for early access or go all out and visit on a complete VIP tour. Whichever way you choose to visit this famous UNESCO World Heritage site, the luxury of the exclusive Viator Hospitality Suite can be enjoyed as part of these select Chichen Itza experiences.

Practical Info

The Viator Hospitality Suite at Chichen Itza is only available on selected tours, with a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations.

Hotel Chichen Itza (Mayaland Resort), Cancun, Mexico

From $ 32

Valladolid

With its grand historic buildings, majestic churches and celebrated gastronomy, it’s easy to see why Valladolid has been touted as one of Mexico’s ‘Pueblos Mágicos’ (Magic Villages’). The beautifully preserved Spanish colonial city makes a strategic base for exploring the Yucatan peninsula, close to top sights like Chichén Itzá, Cancun and Rio Lagartos, but there’s also plenty to see and do in Valladolid itself.

Start your walking tour at the central Parque Fransisco Canton Rosado, from where it’s an easy walk to landmarks like the 16th century Cathedral of San Gervasio, the Avenue of the Friars and the San Bernardino de Siena Convent, then head to the lively municipal market to shop for traditional crafts and tuck into local specialties like Lomitos, smoked sausage and Cochinita Pibil. Additional highlights include the San Roque Museum, the Casa de los Venados and the nearby cenotes of Zaci, Xkeken, Samula and Suytun.

Practical Info

Valladolid is located between Merida and Tulum on Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula.

Valladolid, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, Mexico

From $ 96

Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. Also dubbed the Mexican Caribbean due to the sea it borders, Quintana Roo is home to tropical beaches, ecological islands, party-central cities and Mayan ruins.

In the gorgeous city of Cancun, spend your days lying on the soft sandy beaches and swimming in warm, clear water before changing into your dancing clothes and heading to one of the beach clubs Cancun is known for. Experience Quintana Roo’s turquoise water more in-depth with a jaunt to the island of Cozumel, which has some of the best scuba diving in all of Mexico. You’ll have the chance to see tropical fish, sea turtles, eels and – if they’re migrating through – whale sharks.

Quintana Roo also provides easy access to parts of the massive Mundo Maya, of which Tulum is one of its most famous parts when it comes to Mayan ruins. Visit the impressive Tulum Observatory, an ancient ruin that borders the ocean. You’ll also find adventure parks, cenotes, wildlife and more in Quintana Roo, so whether you’re looking for sand, surf or history, you'll find what you're looking for.

Practical Info

Quintana Roo is a Mexican state in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Quintana Roo, The Yucatan, Mexico

From $ 39

Playa Norte

Playa Norte (North Beach) is a gorgeous, relaxing beach located on Isla Mujeres, a small island off the Yucatan Peninsula. Isla Mujeres means the “Island of Women,” but both women and men will love lounging at Playa Norte.

Known for its many palm trees and white sand beach, Playa Norte stretches along the northern end of Isla Mujeres, where beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rental. Though its water is shallow, swimmers need to be aware that there can sometimes be a strong undertow; swim with caution. Experienced swimmers and snorkelers will enjoy paddling around to see the underwater sea life, and onsite shops have snorkeling gear to rent along with kayaks and stand up paddle boards.

In addition to water activities, Playa Norte is also home to a slew of fun beach bars and restaurants. Take a minute away from the beach for a tropical drink or some fresh seafood.

Practical Info

Playa Norte and the rest of Isla Mujeres is easily accessible from Cancun with daily boats leaving frequently from several different harbors, with some departing every half hour.

Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres, The Yucatan, Mexico

From $ 54

Tulum

Tulum, the site of a Pre-Columbian Maya walled city and a port for Coba, is one of the best preserved coastal Mayan cities in the Yucatan, in tandem with Chichen Itza and Ek Balam. Highlights of this archaeological site include the Temple of the Frescoes, which has spectacular figurines of the 'diving god.'

The Basics

Just a short trip from the Hotel Zone of Cancun and next to the Caribbean Sea, the spectacular Tulum ruins are an ideal spot to explore some of the Yucatan's Mayan history. Perched on a rugged coastline, the ruins are modest but well-preserved and boast stunning views of the seaside area. Stroll through the ruins on a self-guided tour, or sign up for one of the many available Tulum tours guided by an archaeologist. Consider booking an early-access tour to avoid having to compete for space with large tour groups.

Things to Know Before You Go

Both small-group tours and private tours are available.
The Tulum ruins are a perfect destination for history buffs.
Sun protection is a must, so consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, water, and light clothing.

How to Get to the Tulum Ruins
Day trips to the Tulum ruins are available from Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, and other locations in Quintana Roo.

When to Get There
As with most popular attractions in subtropical Mexico, the earlier you arrive, the better—walking through the Mayan ruins is a lot more pleasant without the midday sun beating directly down on your head. April through October is considered low season, while you'll see fewer crowds and a little bit of rain in September and October. The rest of the year, the tourist industry is in full swing with heavy crowds, so consider an early-access tour.

Things to Do in Tulum Besides Visiting the Ruins
The ruins are set against a backdrop of some of Mexico's best beaches, such as Akumal, that are ideal for diving and snorkeling. Whale sharks frequent the area from June to September, so if you visit during that time, be sure to book a tour that combines a trip to the ruins with a snorkel expedition to get your own whale shark experience. Tulum also has popular freshwater cenotes and passageways to an underground river.

Boca Paila Beach is a pristine area yet to be invaded by big-name resorts. Local craft markets sell souvenirs, and you can watch the Mayan pole flyers on a walk around town. Tulum Beach Road takes travelers to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere and Punta Allen for swimming in the clear waters, while further along is Tulum Pueblo with its quaint local shops and restaurants.

Tulum, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan, Mexico

Free

From $ 10

Muyil

Stretching along the banks of a coastal lagoon and dominated by the 17-meter-tall El Castillo, one of the region’s tallest pyramids, the little-visited Mayan ruins of Muyil are undeniably photogenic and make a unique alternative to the nearby sites of Tulum and Coba.

Set on the edge of the Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve, Muyil is a worthwhile detour for hikers and there are a number of significant ruins to explore, as well as an observation tower, offering views over the neighboring lagoon, and boat rides around the lagoon. The ancient settlement is estimated to have dated back to as early as 300 BC and remaining structures include the ‘Sacbé’, a five-meter-wide ancient road, and the ‘Pink Palace’, renowned for its well-preserved stuccos.

Practical Info

Muyil is located by the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, around 20 km south of Tulum.

Tulum, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, Mexico

From $ 115

Maya Museum (Museo Maya)

Take a break from the beaches of Cancun to explore artifacts from Mexico’s ancient past at the Maya Museum, one of the largest created by the National Institute of Anthropology and History. Inside the museum, visitors can see incredible items recovered from sites like Chichen Itza and Tulum, including the Woman of the Palms, ancient skeletal remains found submerged in a water-filled cave near Tulum. Next to the museum is an ancient archaeological site called San Miguelito, where visitors can stroll among the ruins and gardens.

Practical Info

The Maya Museum is located at the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone, making it easily reached by taxi or bus. It’s open every day except Mondays, and the $4/person entrance fee is well worth it to explore such unique remnants of Mayan history.

Km. 16.5 Kukulcan Blvd., Cancun 77500, Mexico

Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission costs 65 pesos (about $4) per person

From $ 5

Ría Lagartos

Love flamingos? Then head to Ría Lagartos, a little fishing village in the Mexican Riviera that is home to Parque Natural Ría Lagartos, a stunning park and biosphere reserve.

Ría Lagartos Park is situated alongside a long estuary, and more than 380 bird species reside here, including tens of thousands of flamingos, who treat Parque Natural Ría Lagartos as their breeding ground. In addition to the pink feathered bird, visitors can see egrets, herons, pelicans and falcons. If visiting at the right time of year, you also may get to see sea turtles coming up on shore to lay their eggs on the beach. Ría Lagartos is also a great place to do some fishing.

Practical Info

Ría Lagartos is located about a three-hour drive south from Cancun.

Ría Lagartos, The Yucatan, Mexico

From $ 108

Xcaret

With unparalleled access to the Caribbean Sea and all of its bounty, a visit to the Xcaret eco-archaeological park is a must when on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Snorkeling, ziplining, river rafting, exploring underwater rivers, and hiking tropical trails through jungle ruins are all options within this natural adventure park, which gives fast access to many of Cancun’s greatest attractions.

The Basics

A prebooked admission ticket or day tour to Xcaret park makes it easy to access an impressive range of activities, with entry including the opportunity to snorkel with fish in natural lagoons, visit the park's Maya archaeological sites, and and catch the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular light and dance show. Some day tours have optional upgrades for extras such as a buffet lunch or exclusive changing rooms, while combo tours can be booked to also visit other nearby attractions, such as the Chichen Itza or Xel-Ha ruins or Xplor Adventure Park.

While there’s plenty to do within the bounds of a general admission ticket, a plethora of add-on activities are also available. For an extra fee, take a speed boat ride (from $59), snorkel atop an offshore coral garden (from $49), take in a theatrical interpretation of the origins of Mexican culture over dinner at the Gran Tlacho Theater (from $59), or experience the Temascal, a traditional four-part wellness ritual (from $39).

Things to Know Before you Go

Visitors should bring sunscreen, walking shoes, swimming gear, and lightweight clothing.
Most tours include round-trip transportation from hotels in Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
Lockers and snorkel equipment are available for a fee.
Most of the park is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for rental for a fee.
Several add-on animal encounters are available for additional fees. Pet stingrays in a shallow lagoon (from $39); go deeper with snuba (an underwater breathing apparatus); nurse sharks (from $59); or swim with bottlenose dolphins (from $109).

How to Get There

Xcaret is located 47 miles (7 kilometers) from Cancun and six miles (10 kilometers) from Playa del Carmen. Most day tours include round-trip transportation from hotels in both cities. Taxis are available to and from Xcaret, and parking is free for those arriving by car. Public buses run from both Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

When to Get There

The park is open daily from 8:30am to 10:30pm—arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy a full day of fun. Although weather is tropical year-round, it can be especially hot in the humid wet season from June through October. Peak visitor season is December through April.

What Not to Miss

Xcaret's cultural attractions include a replica Maya village, a colorful and symbolic Mexican cemetery with a grave for each day of the year, and shows performed by the swinging Papantla Flying Men (Voladores de Papantla). Don’t miss the Maya ruins, the aquarium, the sea turtle nesting site, the walk-through butterfly pavilion, the orchid greenhouse, or the two inland islands with jaguar and puma enclosures.

Carretera Chetúmal-Puerto Juárez Kilómetro 282, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan 77710, Mexico

Daily 8:30am–9pm

Prices vary

From $ 84

Xel-Ha

Named after a Mayan word meaning “the place where the waters are born,” the Xel-Ha aquatic park encompasses 14 acres (5.7 hectares) of jungle and ocean just south of Playa del Carmen. Xel-Ha provides activities for the whole family and features cenotes, a lazy river, fish-filled lagoons, and other natural attractions.

The Basics

Xel-Ha offers ample opportunities to enjoy Mexico’s warm Caribbean waters and abundant animal life. Swim through underground rivers, cliff-jump into a cenote, traverse a floating bridge, and snorkel in lagoons filled with tropical fish, sea turtles, and manatees. On land, you can zipline above the canopy, rock climb, bike, or stroll through the jungle.

Day trips to Xel-Ha typically leave from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya. As the aquatic park is just five miles (eight kilometers) from Tulum, some Xel-Ha excursions also include a tour of the ancient Maya city. Xel-Ha is part of a network of related parks and experiences, including Xcaret, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xenotes Oasis Maya, Xoximilco Cancun, Xichen, and Xenses. It’s possible to book packages that include admission to multiple parks.

Things to Know Before You Go

Bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and swim gear.
The use of snorkeling equipment is offered with admission.
Visitor facilities include restrooms, changing rooms, showers, restaurants, bars, and shops.
Free Wi-Fi is available.
Xel-Ha is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers; wheelchairs can be rented for a fee.

How to Get There

Xel-Ha is located in the Quintana Roo region of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. By road, the park is 90 minutes from Cancun, 40 minutes from Playa del Carmen, and 30 minutes from Riviera Maya. Most Xel-Ha tours include round-trip transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off. Taxi service is available, and you can also get to Xel-Ha via the ADO bus, which leaves from Playa del Carmen and Cancun.

When to Get There

Xel-Ha is open year-round from 8:30am to 6pm. The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. During the rainy season (June through October), you will find fewer crowds and lower prices for accommodations.

Must-Do Experiences at Xel-Ha

For families with kids, the park’s Children’s World features a wading pool, playground, water slide, rope climb, and other activities. Older children and adults can walk on the ocean floor with Xel-Ha’s Sea Trek technology (a helmet that allows you to breathe comfortably underwater); jump from the Cliff of Courage; and trek across the Trepachanga rope course. You can also relax on a secret beach in the Bay of Caprices, climb the Scenic Lighthouse, and swim through a mangrove forest.

Highway Chetumal-Pto. Juárez, Tulum, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan 77780, Mexico

Daily 9am-6pm

Varies

From $ 84