Choose from 291 Fun Things to Do in Mexico
ShowingFilter 181-200 of 291 listings.
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.
Address: Ría Lagartos, The Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 108
Riviera Maya
Travelers looking for large scale, all-inclusive resorts with epic views of the Mexican Caribbean coastline will find plenty of options in Riviera Maya. Stretching from Playa del Carmen in the north to Tulum in the south, this scenic stretch of sandy landscape is famous for its status as one of the top beach vacation destinations. While Riviera Maya is ripe with plenty of standard big-name resorts, visitors will also find charming and unique boutique hotels tucked among the sands, as well as private luxury villas and high-end yacht rentals.
Despite a serious number of tourists making their way to this coastal local, travelers will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in less crowded quarters. Whether it’s jet skiing or snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, zip-lining, riding horses or going on a tour of the nearby tropical jungle visitors have their pick of activities on both land and sea.
Practical Info
Riviera Maya is located along the Highway 307 near the Caribbean coastline in Quinta Roo on the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Address: Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, Mexico
From $ 50
Rosary Chapel (Capilla del Rosario)
Modest from the outside, yet stunningly ornate and garnished with gold on the inside, the Capilla del Rosario of Puebla stands as a brilliant example of Mexican Baroque architecture and style. Walking in, you’re completely surrounded by elaborate decoration covered in gold leaf, talavera tile, and onyx stone, often bathed in natural light. Its highly detailed artistry is not just overwhelming to see, it is considered a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Sculptures of angels and saints adorn the walls alongside golden vines framing oil paintings. The paintings depict the life of Jesus Christ as well as the mysteries of the rosary. The centerpiece of it all is a beautiful altar dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
In all of its splendor, the chapel is considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the art world. Joined to the larger Iglesia de Santo Domingo, the chapel is the first dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary in Mexico. For many, it is a primary draw to the historic town of Puebla, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Practical Info
The chapel is located beside the Church of Santo Domingo in the Zona Colonial of Puebla, Mexico. Puebla can be reached in approximately two hours driving time from Mexico City.
Address: Calle 5 de Mayo, Centro, Puebla, Mexico
From $ 48
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.
Address: Quintana Roo, The Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 39
Polanco
Overview
Just north of Mexico City’s Chapultepec Park (Bosque de Chapultepec), the upscale district of Polanco is home to some of the country’s wealthiest families. In addition to high-end real estate, the city’s most luxurious hotels and priciest restaurants line the streets of the district’s five neighborhoods. At the center of it all is the welcoming green space of Parque Lincoln.
The Basics
Polanco is known primarily for its new residential and business developments, as well as its luxe shopping spots and fine-dining restaurants. The district also houses several cultural attractions. The Soumaya Museum (Museo Soumaya) features Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim’s collection of art, with works by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí, Van Gogh, and others, and the outdoor Angela Peralta Theater hosts music performances and theater productions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Polanco’s version of Rodeo Drive, is a must-see for shoppers.
- Foodies should consider a food tour in Polanco, home to some of Mexico City’s best restaurants.
- Valet parking, enforced dress codes, and reservations are common at many of the district’s restaurants.
How to Get There
Polanco is about a 50-minute drive from Mexico City International Airport and a 35-minute ride from the historical center. The closest metro stations are Auditorio (on the edge of Chapultepec Park) and Polanco.
When to Get There
Many businesses and shops close between 2pm and 4pm, and traffic can be heavy around that time. Mexico City’s peak tourist season typically runs from November to May, so it may be more difficult to get a table at Polanco’s popular restaurants then.
The National Museum of Anthropology
Located on the southern edge of the Polanco district, along Paseo de la Reforma, the National Museum of Anthropology (Museo Nacional de Antropología) houses the largest collection of ancient Mexican art in the world. On display at Mexico City’s most-visited museum are such notable historical items as the Aztec Stone of the Sun, the giant carved heads of the Olmec people, and the Aztec Xochipilli statue.
Address: Polanco, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, FD 11550, Mexico
From $ 75
Plazuela Machado
The heart of the historic district is this leafy rectangular plaza, with leafy trees and palm trees both in place, many buildings painted bright colors. It is lined by restaurants, shops, and museums, plus the Angela Perlata theater is nearby, making this a good place to linger from lunch time onward. Built in 1837 by the wealthy businessman it was named after, in the center is a wrought iron gazebo from 1870.
It’s a hub of activity, especially at night when there’s frequently live music coming from stages on the plaza or performers outside the restaurant tables on the sidewalks. By day there are a few small museums worth a visit. It’s easy to walk from here to other central Mazatlan attractions that are on the edge of the historic district, such as the main square, basilica, and central market.
It’s a hub of activity, especially at night when there’s frequently live music coming from stages on the plaza or performers outside the restaurant tables on the sidewalks. By day there are a few small museums worth a visit. It’s easy to walk from here to other central Mazatlan attractions that are on the edge of the historic district, such as the main square, basilica, and central market.
Address: Mexico
From $ 30
San Angel
A much loved neighborhood in the southwestern corner of Mexico City, San Angel is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, its small town feel, and its authentic Mexican food, crafts, and culture. People come to San Angel to experience the Mexico City that existed in colonial times. Café culture is popular here, and many choose to spend the day sipping on a café con leche and watching the craftsmen peddle their wares in the public market or during the popular Saturday Bazaar. Colonial architecture marks the town, small taquerias line the zocalo (town square), and the boutique shops that dot the cobblestoned streets are perfect for exploring.
Head to the park for a pleasant stroll under the shade of the gum trees, and enjoy life’s passing parade as the locals here do (typically with an agua fresca). San Angel is known as one of Mexico City’s most beautiful neighborhoods, and any of the city’s wealthy elite struck up residence here decades ago, making the architecture of the town one of its many subtle draws —the slow pace of life being another.
Practical Info
San Angel is located in the southwestern corner of Mexico City in the Alvaro Obregon borough. It is most easily accessible via car or bus. For the latter, take the metro bus to La Bombilla, depart, and then head north up La Paz. This will take you directly into town and on Saturdays you’ll see the famous bazaar, which is bustling with activity.
Address: Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 29
Sac Actun Cenote System
Intrepid travelers can test their limits—and their nerves—while navigating the channels of Sac Actun Cenote System—the longest underground river network in the world. Located in the jungles of Tulum, visitors descend into the river via an ominous looking rock well, complete with a well-worn wooden ladder. Because it’s rather remote and difficult to access, Sac Actun proves an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty and mystique of Mexico far away from the crowds.
Known by locals as the Pet Cemetery because of the large number of animal fossils, Sac Actun Cenote holds a spiritual place in Mayan tradition and offers travelers spectacular views of hidden waterfalls, dark caverns dripping with stalactites as they swim through fresh water streams. Snorkeling options are also available for those looking to check out the scene even further below the surface.
Practical Info
Travelers can access Sac Actun via Highway 307, just south of Xel-Ha, not far from Cenote Dos Ojos. Entrance fees are about less than 400 pesos per person and include a guide.
Address: Tulum, Q.R., Mexico, Mexico
Admission: Around 400 pesos
From $ 119
Puerto Morelos National Reef Park
Set equidistant between Playa del Carmen and glitzy, busy Cancun, Puerto Morelos is a laidback beach town on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. While some visitors come for the sunshine, sand, serenity, and cenotes, many come here to dive or snorkel the Puerto Morelos Reef Park. As part of the world’s second largest coral reef system, Puerto Morelos became protected in 1998, and today is tightly administered and monitored to ensure the health of the reef. Unlike other sections of the reef—which runs for 600 miles—the corals found off Puerto Morelos are relatively close to the shore. When scouring the 80° water for marine life, watch as schools of colorful fish all flit and swim in unison, and keep an eye out for barracuda, lobster, star fish, or conch shells. In total, over 500 different species of marine life inhabit this vast stretch of reef—a whole new world that’s waiting underwater just 500 yards from the shore.
Practical Info
Swimming from shore is not allowed inside the National Reef Park, and all visitors must wear eco-friendly sunscreen and life jackets while snorkeling are mandatory.
Address: Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya, Mexico
From $ 35
Progreso Cruise Port
Located on the Yucatan peninsula where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean Sea, the Mexican port of Progreso is a jumping-off point for tours to the Mayan archaeological sites of Chichen Itza (100 miles/160 km away), Uxmal (70 miles/115 km) and Dzibilchaltun (18 miles/30 km). Book a shore excursion or make your own way to the site of your choice by taxi or rental car (both found at the port).
If you’re looking for a more cosmopolitan day in port, head to the city of Mérida, the capital of Yucatan both politically and culturally, where you can soak up the colonial atmosphere by walking along the square, admiring the European-style architecture or stumbling upon a free concert.
How to Get to Mérida
You’ll dock at the Progreso pier, which at 5 miles (8 km) in length is one of the world’s longest. A shuttle takes passengers from ships to the base of the pier, where you can rent a car or grab a cab to make the 20-mile (35-km) drive.
One Day in Mérida
Begin at Plaza Grande, Mérida’s main square, which puts you in the center of the old town. Work your way around the square, picking up a souvenir or two and checking out the historic sights on all sides.
Don’t miss the House of Montejo (Casa de Montejo) built in 1549 and once home to the family of the Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo, and Mérida’s cathedral (the Catedral de San Ildefonso), which was constructed during the last half of the 16th century on the site of a Mayan temple.
Take a breather with a cup of coffee or some lunch in the plaza, and then head north from the square along Calle Ciudad toward the Paseo Montejo, a tree-lined boulevard where you’ll find the Palacio Canton, a former palace that houses the Museo Regional de Antropología (Anthropology Museum). Step inside and be wowed by the exhibits that track the region’s history back to ancient times.
For more of Yucatan’s cultural past, jump in a cab and head to the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Great Museum of the Maya World), a recent addition (opened in 2012) to the city’s already-rich cultural offerings. Inside the modern exterior, explore the hundreds of pieces jewelry, ceramics and other Mayan artifacts.
If you’re looking for a more cosmopolitan day in port, head to the city of Mérida, the capital of Yucatan both politically and culturally, where you can soak up the colonial atmosphere by walking along the square, admiring the European-style architecture or stumbling upon a free concert.
How to Get to Mérida
You’ll dock at the Progreso pier, which at 5 miles (8 km) in length is one of the world’s longest. A shuttle takes passengers from ships to the base of the pier, where you can rent a car or grab a cab to make the 20-mile (35-km) drive.
One Day in Mérida
Begin at Plaza Grande, Mérida’s main square, which puts you in the center of the old town. Work your way around the square, picking up a souvenir or two and checking out the historic sights on all sides.
Don’t miss the House of Montejo (Casa de Montejo) built in 1549 and once home to the family of the Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo, and Mérida’s cathedral (the Catedral de San Ildefonso), which was constructed during the last half of the 16th century on the site of a Mayan temple.
Take a breather with a cup of coffee or some lunch in the plaza, and then head north from the square along Calle Ciudad toward the Paseo Montejo, a tree-lined boulevard where you’ll find the Palacio Canton, a former palace that houses the Museo Regional de Antropología (Anthropology Museum). Step inside and be wowed by the exhibits that track the region’s history back to ancient times.
For more of Yucatan’s cultural past, jump in a cab and head to the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Great Museum of the Maya World), a recent addition (opened in 2012) to the city’s already-rich cultural offerings. Inside the modern exterior, explore the hundreds of pieces jewelry, ceramics and other Mayan artifacts.
Port Information
The currency is the Mexican peso, although the US dollar is widely accepted in many tourist-frequented shops and restaurants. There is an Internet cafe at the terminal.
Address: Progreso, YUC, Mexico
From $ 99
Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres
On the north side of the Guadalajara Cathedral, you’ll find a little park that contains the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres, or the Rotunda of the Illustrious Jaliscans. Ringed by bronze statues and flowering trees, the neoclassical rotunda houses the remains of the state’s luminaries. Inside the rotunda, the coffin of Enrique Díaz de León, the first rector of the University of Guadalajara, sits in state. You’ll also see urns containing the ashes of Jalisco’s honored dead; additional empty urns await their occupants. A crypt below the floor contains the mummified remains of General Ramón Corona, who defended Mexico during the French invasion, served as a popular reform governor, and was murdered in 1889.
Statues of Jaliscan movers and shakers encircle the monument. Wander the park to gaze upon the great muralist José Clemente Orozco, the architect Luis Barragán, the governor Ignacio Vallarta (of Puerto Vallarta fame), and the writer, philosopher, avant-garde landscape painter and Nazi sympathizer, Dr. Atl.
Statues of Jaliscan movers and shakers encircle the monument. Wander the park to gaze upon the great muralist José Clemente Orozco, the architect Luis Barragán, the governor Ignacio Vallarta (of Puerto Vallarta fame), and the writer, philosopher, avant-garde landscape painter and Nazi sympathizer, Dr. Atl.
Practical Info
The rotunda is directly across the street from the north side of the Guadalajara’s primary cathedral.
Address: Zona Centro, Guadalajara 44100, Mexico
From $ 40
San Agustin Bay
Home to fewer than 100 people—mostly fishermen—San Agustin Bay has no electricity or running water. The bay itself is known for its prime snorkeling opportunities. Visitors head into the ocean straight from the shore and are immediately surrounded by schools of tropical fish, coral plates, crabs, snails, bivalves, and sea urchins.
The Basics
Located in the far west Bay of Huatulco, the quaint village of San Agustin Bay is so far off the beaten path that many travelers miss it completely. With shaded palm palapas (shelters) and rustic beachside restaurants, the village attracts determined scuba divers, snorkelers, and beach enthusiasts. All-terrain vehicle adventure rides around Huatulco usually stop in San Agustin Bay for a swim and seafood lunch. Remember to ask for the catch of the day.
Travelers can also take a short hike to the nearby hillside where a shrine honors the town’s namesake, St. Augustine. Hikers are also rewarded with expansive views of rolling hills, thick forests, and crashing waves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- San Agustin Bay is one of the Huatulco Bays (Las Bahias de Huatulco), which comprise nine bays and 36 beaches.
- When snorkeling, be careful not to touch or disturb the coral, and remember it is illegal to remove coral from the sea.
- Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera to snap photos underwater.
How to Get There
San Agustin Bay is accessible by road or boat. Travelers can rent a private boat or purchase a ticket on one of the local catamarans. Micro buses and taxis also travel the banana tree-lined road to San Augustin. If you decide to drive, keep in mind that you’ll need to travel down about 10 miles of rocky dirt road; the bay is about 25 minutes from the Santa Maria intersection.
When to Get There
Mornings at San Agustin Bay can be busy because that’s when tourists arrive via catamaran or other boats to snorkel. Plan to visit in the late morning, if you can, to avoid the crowds. Like most tourist destinations, the area draws more visitors during the high seasons around Christmas and Easter, and more locals on weekends.
Maguey Bay
Another of the Huatulco Bays, Maguey Bay also boasts a white sandy beach and calm waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, because the area is protected by rock formations. As in San Agustin Bay, there are also plenty of seafood restaurants, and it’s more accessible than San Agustin.
Address: San Agustin Bay, Oaxaca, Mexico
From $ 78
Playacar
Playacar is a gated community just south of Playa del Carmen, Mexico, which is known for its all-inclusive resorts and private beachfront villas. It's ideal for those who want to stay right on the sand and still be close to the excitement of Fifth Avenue. Playacar’s wide and not-too-crowded beaches are some of the nicest in Playa.
The Basics
Playacar's resorts have gourmet restaurants, gorgeous pools, and offer a wide range of amenities for a relaxing and luxurious stay. Some of the big names that you’ll find here include Riu, Palace, and Occidental. Carved into the jungle, Playacar’s challenging 18-hole golf course is one of the top courses on the Riviera Maya. The neighborhood is also home to a bird aviary, an open-air shopping plaza, and a small group of Maya ruins.
Things to Know Before You Go
- English is widely spoken in almost all of the Playacar tourist areas.
- Bring sun protection and a hat or sunglasses, as the streets, golf course, and beaches offer little shade.
- Set aside some time to walk or take a taxi into the downtown area to shop and experience Fifth Avenue.
How to Get There
Most visitors to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula arrive at Cancun International Airport, which is 45 to 60 minutes north of Playacar by car depending on traffic. If you’re vacationing in Playacar, chances are your resort will offer transportation options, or you can book a shuttle from the airport or rent a car there. Taxis are readily available to take visitors to and from Playa del Carmen’s bus station and downtown.
When to Get There
Playacar can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, and the weeks before and after Easter are some of the busiest. Other times of the year are less crowded. From May to October, expect higher-than-average humidity and a chance of wet weather.
Plaza Playacar
If you love to shop and want a mall experience that differs from what you’ll find back home, you don’t have to go any farther than Plaza Playacar. This small open-air Spanish colonial–style mall is full of shops that guarantee authenticity and quality. In addition to artisan crafts and Maya clothing and embroidery, you’ll also find T-shirts, key chains, and other souvenirs.
Address: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
From $ 59
San Angel Market
Home to monuments, historic residences, and a cultural center, the San Angel neighborhood is a charming respite from busy Mexico City. But, one day a week, the Saturday Bazaar (Bazar del Sábado) bustles with activity, with vendors selling art and crafts, original paintings and sculptures, and cheap eats.
The Basics
Surrounded by tree-lined cobblestoned streets and the former mansions of wealthy aristocratic residents, the San Angel Market is considered the go-to shopping spot for arts and handicrafts in Mexico. You’ll be able to find a range of souvenirs, from inexpensive hammered-tin milagros to pricy original paintings and sculptures, paper flowers, and embroidered wares.
Plus, the usual assortment of fresh produce and local fare is sold. Walking food tours of the market are available and offer an introduction to Mexican cuisine, including tacos, quesadillas, and pozole.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As the name implies, the Saturday Bazaar is only open on Saturdays, 10am–5pm; some vendors may open later.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the market and bring a tote for collecting any souvenir buys.
- The restaurant inside the market specializes in quesadillas and features live music, but there are other food stalls nearby that offer cheaper eats.
How to Get There
The San Angel neighborhood is about 6 miles (10 kilometers) south of central Mexico City. There is no direct metro stop at the market, but Metro Line 3's Miguel Ángel de Quevedo station is a little more than 1 mile (2 kilometers) away and the Line 7’s Metro Barranca de Muerto station, along Avenida Revolución, is also close. Buses connect both stops to Plaza San Jacinto. Some tours also provide round-trip transportation from Mexico City.
When to Get There
Of course, the best time to visit the San Angel Market is on Saturdays, but the surrounding historic neighborhood also features popular sights, such as the historic Plaza San Jacinto, cafes, and shops. Several small museums, including the Museo Casa Estudio (the former art studio and home of Mexican artist Diego Rivera and his wife Frida Kahlo) and the Parroquia de San Jacinto, a 16th-century church, are also there.
Museo Casa Estudio
Built in 1931, this complex consists of three buildings: two studio-houses (one for Rivera and another for his wife Frida Kahlo) and a photo lab. A must-visit for art lovers, the Museo Casa Estudio now features many works by the two artists, including a collection of Rivera’s papier-mâché or cartoneria figures of humans, skeletons, and animals. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10am–5:30pm.
Address: Plaza San Jacinto, Avenida Revolución, Mexico City, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 69
Punta Laguna Nature Reserve
With its miles of untamed jungle and sizable population of free-roaming spider monkeys, the Punta Laguna Nature Reserve is one of the best places to get up-close to the Yucatan’s varied wildlife. The 5,000-hectare reserve is home to more than 600 spider and howler monkeys, as well as pumas, crocodiles, coati, white-tailed deer and a large variety of tropical birds.
The impressive centerpiece of the reserve is a huge 90-hectare lake, where it’s possible to enjoy canoeing and kayaking, while other popular activities include hiking through the jungle, rappelling between the underground caves and zip-lining through the jungle canopy. The reserve is also home to a traditional Mayan village, where visitors can tour the thatched-roof homes, sample local cuisine and learn about the indigenous population.
Practical Info
Punta Laguna Nature Reserve is located around 60 km northwest of Tulum.
Address: Tulum, Mexico
From $ 135
Plaza Garibaldi
The streets of Mexico City come alive with music, performance and mariachi at Plaza Garibaldi. This historic square is the destination for live local music in the capital city. Visitors can cozy up to the bar at one of the numerous tequila joints that line the streets of Plaza Garibaldi, or settle in to an outdoor table and enjoy the hustle of urban life while mariachi bands weave between patrons while playing traditional tunes. The nearby Museum of Tequila and Mezcal, just behind the Agave Garden, is a perfect stop to learn more about Mexico’s most famous spirit and solo musicians frequently perform in the upstairs bar and tasting room.
While some argue the plaza’s high prices and petty crime make it a true tourist trap, good drink deals are easy to find and increased security has improved the look, feel and safety of this popular destination.
While some argue the plaza’s high prices and petty crime make it a true tourist trap, good drink deals are easy to find and increased security has improved the look, feel and safety of this popular destination.
Practical Info
Plaza Garibaldi is located between Calle Republica de Honduras and Calle Republica de Peru on Eje Central, just north of the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The Plaza comes alive at night, but this is also the time when pickpockets come out. Be mindful of belongings and surroundings to avoid theft.
Address: Plaza Garibaldi, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, FD, Mexico
From $ 44
Quiahuiztlan
These ancient ruins of the Totonac people line the lower volcanic slopes near the Gulf of Mexico and have not been occupied since the 16th century. Cortez, the Spanish conquistador, arrived on these rocky shores and wandered through the open plazas and religious temples that still dot the hillside.
Crumbling tombs and game courts peak out over the Gulf of Mexico, offering travelers a chance to capture truly unique photographs—especially from atop the nearby peak. This steep mountain pass is a bit of a challenge, but affords incredible views of this historic site and the scenic Gulf. Despite its beauty and historic significance, few travelers actually make the trek to Quiahuiztlan, which means crowds are thin, making ruins easy to navigate.
Practical Info
It is possible to reach Quiahuiztlan from the city of Cardel. Taxis cost about US$15. Public buses are also available for about US$5 each way
Address: Actopan, Veracruz, Mexico
From $ 71
Rio Secreto Nature Reserve
Rio Secreto, or the “Secret River,” is a series of caves carved out by the flow of an ancient underground river in Mexico. While the reserve is most famous for its large half-sunken cavern—a popular diving spot—you can also explore eerie passageways, swim in the river, and admire dripping stalactites, stalagmites, and colorful mineral formations.
The Basics
Most Rio Secreto tours leave from Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Tulum, and other Riviera Maya destinations. At the nature reserve, you can tour the underground river, visit the famous Crystal Caves, and learn about ancient Maya legends. Combo tours combine a visit to Rio Secreto with other activities, such as an early-access visit to the Tulum ruins, a mountain biking excursion, or an ATV tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Rio Secreto Nature Reserve is a must-see attraction for nature lovers.
- The reserve is accessible by guided tour only.
- Bring water shoes to navigate the reserve’s rocky surfaces.
- Tours typically include a wetsuit, life jacket, helmet, towels, and use of lockers.
How to Get There
The Rio Secreto underground river is located in Playa del Carmen, in the Quintana Roo region of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. By road, it is roughly 20 minutes from downtown Playa del Carmen, 45 minutes from Tulum, and one hour from Cancun. Many tours include round-trip transportation from Riviera Maya hotels, but you can also get there by taxi, rental car, or shuttle bus.
When to Get There
Rio Secreto 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 if you plan to participate in outdoor activities.
What to See Near Rio Secreto
Mexico’s Caribbean Quintana Roo region is full of attractions, both natural and man-made. Nearby Playa del Carmen is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and shopping. The Maya ruins at Coba, with a 138-foot-high (42-meter-high) stone pyramid, are also a must-see. The archaeological sites of Tulum and Chichen Itza are also great spots to explore. For an island getaway, visit the shores of Isla Mujeres or Cozumel.
Address: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
From $ 46
Puerto Vallarta Cruise Port
Sail into the calm Bay of Banderas for a warm Mexican welcome at Puerto Vallarta. This lovely beach resort city is on the mid-west coast of Mexico, lapped by the Pacific Ocean. Make your way downtown from the Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal for an aquatic, eco-friendly or relaxing shore excursion.
How to Get to Puerto Vallarta
If your ship is mooring at Puerto Vallarta, you’ll dock at the Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal, 3 miles (5km) north of the city center. Alternatively, your ship might anchor just offshore, in which case a tender will float you ashore. Taxis line up to take you downtown; negotiate the fare (around US$5) before you head off.
One Day in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta’s number one attraction is the beach, and the full-facility resorts lining the sands. After soaking up the rays, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade to shop for silver jewelry and ceramics, sculptures and glassware. Soak up the colonial architecture and cobblestone streets on a Small Group City Tour, and if you’re docked for the evening take a sunset cruise across Banderas Bay and dine on the sands by candlelight.
Or spend the day getting up close and personal with dolphins or sea lions, or setting sail for snorkeling and swimming on a day trip to Marietas Islands. Other eco-escapades take you zipping across the rainforest canopy, or cutting trails through the coastal mountains on an ATV adventure.
Port Information
Puerto Vallarta is a popular cruise port, visited by cruise liners operated by Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess Spanish is the local language, but English is widely spoken and understood in Puerto Vallarta. The local currency is Mexican pesos, and you’ll find it’s cheaper if you use pesos rather than US dollars. There are ATMs throughout Puerto Vallarta.
How to Get to Puerto Vallarta
If your ship is mooring at Puerto Vallarta, you’ll dock at the Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal, 3 miles (5km) north of the city center. Alternatively, your ship might anchor just offshore, in which case a tender will float you ashore. Taxis line up to take you downtown; negotiate the fare (around US$5) before you head off.
One Day in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta’s number one attraction is the beach, and the full-facility resorts lining the sands. After soaking up the rays, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade to shop for silver jewelry and ceramics, sculptures and glassware. Soak up the colonial architecture and cobblestone streets on a Small Group City Tour, and if you’re docked for the evening take a sunset cruise across Banderas Bay and dine on the sands by candlelight.
Or spend the day getting up close and personal with dolphins or sea lions, or setting sail for snorkeling and swimming on a day trip to Marietas Islands. Other eco-escapades take you zipping across the rainforest canopy, or cutting trails through the coastal mountains on an ATV adventure.
Port Information
Puerto Vallarta is a popular cruise port, visited by cruise liners operated by Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess Spanish is the local language, but English is widely spoken and understood in Puerto Vallarta. The local currency is Mexican pesos, and you’ll find it’s cheaper if you use pesos rather than US dollars. There are ATMs throughout Puerto Vallarta.
Address: Atlatengo LB, Las Glorias, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 65
Puebla
The United States isn’t the only country with a “city of angels” (i.e. Los Angeles). Mexico is also home to a city that has that moniker: Puebla, officially called Puebla de los Angeles. Puebla is one of Mexico’s oldest cities and legend has it that its angelic name was first earned thanks to the bell tower on Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral since an 18,000-pound bell that no one could figure out how to get up to the tower mysteriously appeared there one morning; angels were subsequently credited for the bell being moved. It is also said that angels designed the layout of the city.
In addition to the cathedral and its famous bell tower, Puebla is also home to a variety of Baroque and Spanish Colonial style buildings and architecture that has caused it to be designated as a World Heritage City. Food is also a huge draw of Puebla. It’s called the capital of mole for a reason, and a visit to Puebla must include a bite (or several) of this beloved Mexican cuisine. Puebla is also known for its chalupas and chiles en nogada.
Practical Info
Puebla is the capital city of the Mexican state of the same name, Puebla. It is located less than 90 miles from Mexico City, making for an easy day trip from there.
Address: Puebla, Mexico
From $ 70