Choose from 291 Fun Things to Do in Mexico
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Cenote Ik Kil
Cenote Ik Kil is a sacred site to the Maya people, who once performed sacrificial rituals here. Located in the middle of the Yucatan Peninsula and surrounded by tropical vines and small waterfalls, the so-called “Sacred Blue Cenote” is now a lush swimming hole popular with Riviera Maya tourists.
The Basics
Nearly all excursions to Cenote Ik Kil are combo tours that include a visit to Chichen Itza, as well as possible stops at archaeological sites such as Coba or Ek Balam, or at towns such as Valladolid. (Tours typically last eight to 14 hours given the number of sites visited.) Unlike other cenotes in the Yucatan region, Cenote Ik Kil is open to the sky without a cave cover, giving the natural pool an ethereal feel with sunlight streaming down into the water. Part of Ik Kil Archeological Park, the cenote features vines hanging down from the rock walls. To get in the water, you must climb down 85 feet (26 meters) of steps. The pool is 196 feet (60 meters) wide and about 130 feet (40 meters) deep.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The cenote can be difficult to access for those with limited mobility.
- A restaurant and changing rooms are located on-site.
- To access the cenote, you must pay the admission fee for Ik Kil Archeological Park.
How to Get There
Cenote Ik Kil lies inland from Mexico’s Caribbean coast, roughly 125 miles (200 kilometers) from Cancun, 115 miles (186 kilometers) from Playa del Carmen, and 90 miles (145 kilometers) from Tulum. Private tours and transportation are available for those who want a more intimate experience without the hassle of driving.
When to Get There
If you wish to visit the cenote on your own, arrive in the morning to beat the crowds.
Visiting Chichen Itza and Cenote Ik Kil
On the Yucatan Peninsula, cenotes and Maya culture go hand in hand. Archaeological sites featuring ancient Maya ruins abound, but the biggest and most popular destination is Chichen Itza, set just three miles (five kilometers) from Cenote Ik Kil. Once one of the largest Maya cities, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its vast Great Ball Court and El Castillo, a step pyramid nearly 100 feet (30 meters) tall.
Address: Tinúm, Yucatan, Mexico
Admission: Ps. 70
From $ 62
Cancun Interactive Aquarium
As one of the top family-friendly attractions in the resort town, the Cancun Interactive Aquarium offers visitors a peek into the Caribbean and the chance to touch, feed, and interact with a variety of marine life. Home to schools of colorful tropical fish, seahorses, jellyfish, stingrays, tiger and bull sharks, sea turtles, and more, the aquarium provides the chance to learn about the animals’ natural habitats and their role in the underwater ecosystem.
The Basics
Conveniently located along Boulevard Kukulcán at Plaza La Isla in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, the Cancun Interactive Aquarium offers many exhibits, including various touch tanks where kids and adults can feed stingrays and sea turtles, touch starfish, pet a shark, or even dive into a shark tank inside a safety cage to feed bull sharks. There’s also a dolphin habitat where you can see at show and even swim with the creatures, plus dolphin-focused education and therapy programs.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A walk through the aquarium takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how much you interact with the exhibits.
- The hands-on dolphin experience offers different packages in a range of price points and are designed for couples, groups, and families.
- The aquarium offers on-site bathroom facilities, showers, changing areas, towels, and secure lockers.
How to Get There
Located inside La Isla Shopping Mall Cancun in the hotel zone, the Cancun Interactive Aquarium is easily accessible via taxi or rental car from most accommodations in Cancun. For example, from Hotel Riu Cancun at the northern tip, it’s a 6-minute drive. From Playa del Carmen, it’s about an hour drive north along Highway 307.
When to Get There
The Cancun Interactive Aquarium is open every day, but, as with most attractions, weekends and holiday periods are the busiest. To avoid the crowds, aim to visit during a weekday. The marine presentation (which is the only dolphin show in Cancun and Riviera Maya) takes place at 7pm daily, so plan to arrive in the late afternoon or evening if you want to catch the show.
Visit Ventura Park
If you’re looking for more family fun, visit Ventura Park, an amusement park made up of seven worlds including Dolphinaris, Underworld, Grand Prix, Fun World, Aaaahventura, and Wet n' Wild with rides such as waterslides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. Other activities include a roller coaster, ziplines, go-karts, and more. Various packages are available, and all include unlimited food and beverages. The park is open from 10am to 5:30pm and is located about 15 minutes south of the interactive aquarium.
Address: La Isla Shopping Mall, Blvd. Kukulcan, 12.5 Zona, Hotelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 30
Cabo San Lucas Cruise Port
Cabo San Lucas finds itself on all cruise lines, making their way along the Mexican Rivera and Sea of Cortez. It has also garnered a reputation for being an American ex-pat party hot spot. This is THE place to do your duty-free shopping and pick up vacation trinkets and souvenirs. Outside of downtown’s party atmosphere, Los Cabos offers tranquil scenery and exotic adventure opportunities.
How to Get to Cabo San Lucas
Downtown Cabo is a pleasant ten-minute beachside walk from the marina. The town itself is very walkable, however taxis are readily available by the terminal. Several international car rental agencies have offices in town, if you feel like getting out and exploring beyond the coast.
One Day in Los Cabos
Los Cabos is known as a great locale to get your water sport on! Try the Sailing and snorkeling cruise through the famous rock formations and see some remote beaches. Or, get up close with the abundant and diverse tropical ocean ecosystem in a Two-tank scuba dive.
Hydrophobes can take in the equally distinctive dry-land scenery from atop a new equine friend on the Horseback Riding Adventure, or tear through the rocky desert terrain on an ATV. At the end of the day, kick back with a daiquiri at the Hard Rock Cafe in true Cabo Wabo style!
Port Information
The official language is Spanish, but owing to the bustling tourism industry and the concentration of American ex-pats in the area, most locals also speak English. US Dollars are accepted almost everywhere, as are credit cards. Cabo San Lucas is a tender port, so allow extra time for getting off and on your ship.
Address: Marina, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
From $ 49
Cabo San Lucas
Love it, hate it, or can’t remember it, there’s no denying that Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas is a town fueled by fun and firewater. From deep-sea fishing to fishbowl sipping, Cabo always delivers on its reputation as the Baja Peninsula’s favorite resort town thanks to its combination of kid-friendly water sports, whale-watching opportunities, world-class beaches, and raging nightlife.
The Basics
The best way to experience Cabo San Lucas is out on the waters that make the town famous. To the west, the Pacific Ocean offers a quiet beach and big waves for surfing (swimming here is not recommended), and to the east, the Sea of Cortez features abundant water sports and the popular Medano and Solmar beaches. Take a speedboat tour, luxury cruise, or kayaking trip to snorkel alongside tropical fish, or go deeper and scuba dive at remote coral reef sites such as Playa Santa Maria and Chileno Bay. Those who’d rather be on the water rather than under it can opt for a fishing charter, sunset cruise, whale-watching trip, or stand-up paddleboard class for good views of top sites such as Lover’s Beach and El Arco, a distinctive arch-shaped rock formation at Land’s End.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cabo San Lucas can be crowded with uninhibited nighttime (and daytime) revelers, especially during spring break.
- Cruise ship passengers stopping in Cabo can take shore excursions that operate on a time-sensitive schedule.
- For an essential photo op of the dramatic sea cliffs, stop at Land’s End.
- Animal lovers shouldn’t miss the dolphins and sea lions—and, in December through mid-April, whales—that hang out in Cabo’s waters.
How to Get There
Cabo San Lucas is a 40-minute drive from Los Cabos International Airport. Book a transfer from the airport in advance, or take a shuttle, taxi, or rental car upon arrival.
When to Get There
Winter is the most popular season for visitors, as the summertime heat can be intense. January through March is the best season for whale watching; all other activities are available year-round.
Exploring San Jose del Cabo
The quieter town of San Jose del Cabo, just a 20-minute ride away, makes an ideal day trip for those interested in colonial history or just an escape from the crowds.
Address: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
From $ 50
Cancun Airport VIP Lounge
The Cancun International Airport is the second-largest in the country and handles a majority of international flights coming in and out of Mexico. The VIP Lounges — located in both terminals 2 and 3 — give travelers a quiet, comfortable place to relax away from the bustle of the main terminal while waiting for a flight.
Admission to the lounge includes an open bar, snacks, coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices. Lounge guests enjoy free WiFi, TVs showing news and sports channels, a variety of newspapers and magazines and a kids area.
Practical Info
Traveling with kids? Children under 2 can enter the VIP Lounge for free.
Address: Cancun, Mexico
Hours: Daily 8am to 9pm
From $ 38
Cancun Wax Museum
Marvel at more than 100 famous faces (and bodies!) at Cancun's only wax museum. Wax figures from the world of entertainment (music, television, movies, sport and politics included) cover the 7,500-square-foot (700-square-meter) museum, providing visitors with some surreal photo opportunities. Each wax figure has been carefully and meticulously crafted, with everyone from Albert Einstein and Queen Elizabeth to David Beckham and Amy Winehouse on display.
With a collection of well-known children's characters as well, the Cancun Wax Museum is especially popular with kids, and is therefore the ideal attraction for families. For maximum convenience and to avoid disappointment, it's best to book a Cancun Wax Museum admission ticket in advance.
Insider's Tip: A visit to the Cancun Wax Museum makes the ideal start or end to a day of shopping; the museum is located inside the La Isla Plaza shopping village in the Cancun Hotel Zone.
Practical Info
Public buses and private shuttles will deliver you to the La Isla Plaza to visit the wax museum, which is open daily from 10am to 10pm.
Address: La Isla Plaza, Boulevard Kukulcan, Cancun, Mexico
Hours: 10am-10pm
Admission: $27
From $ 27
Cancun Underwater Museum
Helping to define Cancun as more than just a tourism spot for dedicated beach lovers, the Cancun Underwater Museum is an attraction unlike any other in the world. While almost all of us have, invariably, at one point or another, been to a museum, few if any of us have been to an underwater museum. Until now, that is.
Essentially a bountiful series of sunken sculptures, the Cancun Underwater Museum is an ongoing project aimed at inspiring a love of art as well as Cancun’s magnificent coral reefs. Soon over 400 original sculptures will lie between depths of 9 to 20 feet, and so make for excellent viewing when either snorkeling or diving.
How does something this wonderful and unique come about? By simple artistic inspiration. Jason deCaires Taylor was the artistic brains behind the operation, and people have responded well to the idea. Eerie, beautiful, and spectacular are all words used to describe this underwater phenomenon that successfully promotes Cancun as an artistic residence, as well as an excellent diving opportunity.
Don’t miss this fantastic Cancun attraction.
Essentially a bountiful series of sunken sculptures, the Cancun Underwater Museum is an ongoing project aimed at inspiring a love of art as well as Cancun’s magnificent coral reefs. Soon over 400 original sculptures will lie between depths of 9 to 20 feet, and so make for excellent viewing when either snorkeling or diving.
How does something this wonderful and unique come about? By simple artistic inspiration. Jason deCaires Taylor was the artistic brains behind the operation, and people have responded well to the idea. Eerie, beautiful, and spectacular are all words used to describe this underwater phenomenon that successfully promotes Cancun as an artistic residence, as well as an excellent diving opportunity.
Don’t miss this fantastic Cancun attraction.
Address: Cancun, Mexico
From $ 45
Casa Herradura Distillery
With a history dating back to 1870 and a reputation for producing some of Mexico’s finest tequilas, the Casa Herradura Distillery is among the most famous of Jalisco’s many tequila distilleries. A family-run hacienda located at the center of tequila country, Casa Herradura lies just outside of Amatitan and is devoted to preserving traditional hands-on production methods alongside modern processing techniques.
The most popular way to visit the Casa Herradura Distillery is with a ride on the Tequila Express train from Guadalajara, an historic railway route set against a backdrop of blue agave fields and sweeping mountains. Exploring the vast distillery, visitors can discover the secrets of tequila production, from harvesting and crushing the agaves, to the fine art of fermentation and distillation. Of course, the most important part of the tour is the tasting and a master tequilier will be on hand to guide first-timers through the different varieties produced on site, from the premium 100% agave blanco (white) and añejo (aged) tequilas that are sold under the Herradura name, to popular mixed blends like El Jimador and New Mix.
Address: Calzada del Carmen 82, Amatitan, Jalisco 45380, Mexico
From $ 50
Casa Crespo
Travelers seeking a true Oaxacan culinary experience will find it at Casa Crespo, a popular restaurant and cooking school that serves up traditional regional cuisine that highlights age-old flavors and market-fresh ingredients. Visitors can settle in for an el fresco cocktail on Casa Crespo’s rooftop, where scenic views of the Church of Santo Domingo and the Oaxaca countryside offer a perfect backdrop.
It’s best to arrive ready to relax with the expectation that this traditional dinner will be served at a leisurely pace that’s perfect for enjoying company and cocktails. Caldo de piedra, a seafood stew that’s cooked over hot stones tableside, offers up a bit of dinner drama that’s worth every savory bite.
Practical Info
Casa Crespo is located at Allende 107 in Centro Historico. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 1 p.m. until 11 p.m.
Address: Allende 107, Oaxaca, Mexico
Hours: Open Tuesday - Sunday from 1 p.m. until 11 p.m.
From $ 116
Catemaco Lake
Catemaco Lake is a natural wonderland for travelers who love the outdoors. Whether it’s joining one of the thousands of fishermen casting lines into the 22-meter-deep waters, or hiring a boat to explore the surrounding sites, Catemaco is a still undeveloped Mecca perfect for spending a sunny afternoon.
This rustic freshwater lake in south central Veracruz was formed by a natural lava flow from the nearby San Marin Tuxtla volcano. Its chilly waters and the fertile foothills that surround it offer plenty of options for outdoor exploring. Travelers can hire a local boat and paddle into the depths of Catemaco Lake before washing ashore Monkey Island, where playful primates swing freely between towering emerald green trees. Or they can head to nearby Nanciyaga Ecological Reserve for a refreshing swim in the peaceful lagoon, followed by relaxing mud massages and a dip in the hot springs.
Practical Info
The lake is located in the heart of the Sierra de Los Tuxtlas, about 100 miles south of Vera Cruz City. Buses leave from the main station and cost about $10 per person for the 8-hour round-trip ride.
Address: Sierra de Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, Mexico
Admission: $10
From $ 90
Cenotes Dos Ojos
Known as a top diving site in the Yucatan Peninsula, Cenotes Dos Ojos (Two Eyes Cenote) boasts about 300 miles (483 kilometers) of connected underwater passageways, creating a natural cave system. Divers can explore its nearly 7,000-year-old caves and underground rivers. It also contains the deepest-known cave passage in Quintana Roo.
The Basics
Located north of Tulum and south of Playa del Carmen, Cenotes Dos Ojos is a popular excursion for those visiting the Mexican peninsula. The water temperature is considered optimum for snorkeling, at roughly 77°F (24°C) throughout the year. A range of tours offering scuba diving, snorkeling, and sightseeing options are available and typically depart from the major resort towns. Visitors can also simply float in the clear blue waters, taking in the rocky stalactites and stalagmites.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Some tours provide lunch, but bring food if you travel on your own because restaurants are scarce.
- Dos Ojos is open 8am–5pm everyday; toilets and changing facilities are available on site.
- Divers typically complete two dives, including one in the “bat cave,” home to plenty of the critters.
How to Get There
Located off of Highway 307, Cenotes Dos Ojos is 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Playa Del Carmen, 10.5 miles (17 kilometers) from Tulum, and about 35 minutes by ferry from Cozumel. Most tours provide round-trip transportation from these major resort towns, as well as the proper gear. The cenote is also accessible by car or taxi; if traveling on your own, snorkeling equipment is available for rent nearby.
When to Get There
The best months to visit the region are April, May, and November, which also means you encounter the biggest crowds during those times. Since the waters of Cenotes Dos Ojos remain around 77°F year-round, you can visit anytime and still enjoy a pleasant experience. If you plan to scuba dive and snorkel elsewhere, April and November offer the best visibility.
Nearby Nohoch Muul at Coba
Along with a visit to Cenotes Dos Ojos, some tours incorporate a stop at the nearby Coba ruins. The ancient Maya ruins, located about a 45-minute drive from Tulum, were home to 50,000 inhabitants at its peak. There, you can climb the main pyramid, Nohoch Mul. At 137 feet (42 meters), it's the tallest on the Yucatan Peninsula, and it provides panoramic views from the top.
Address: Quintana Roo, Mexico
From $ 23
Cenote Chaak Tun
At Cenote Chaak Tun, outside Playa del Carmen, venture inside hidden subterranean caves that the ancient Maya believed were sacred portals to the underworld. Follow the beam of your headlamp into an enormous cenote, where centuries-old stalactites drip from above, and swim and snorkel in its fresh water rivers and pools.
The Basics
Still relatively unknown to tourists, Cenote Chaak Tun is one of Playa del Carmen’s best-kept secrets. Here, you can learn about the formation and history of the caves, and hear stories and legends of the ancient Maya. Visit the cenote independently or as part of a guided tour that explores two underground rivers. Travelers who want to avoid the hassle of renting a car in Mexico can opt for a tour that includes transportation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visit Cenote Chaak Tun on a small-group tour with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Admission to the cenote includes a headlamp, helmet, and snorkeling gear.
- The cenote is open daily and offers restrooms and lockers.
How to Get There
Cenote Chaak Tun sits at the end of Avenida Juarez, just several minutes from downtown Playa del Carmen. It’s accessible either by private tour or arranging your own transportation.
When to Get There
Cenote Chaak Tun can be visited year-round. It receives about half the visitors of some of the larger cenotes in Riviera Maya, so you can visit just about any time without having to worry about crowds. Tours of the cenote operate in all weather conditions.
Other Attractions in Playa del Carmen
While in Playa del Carmen, take a stroll along Fifth Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops and restaurants, and visit Fundadores Park, the city’s main square or zocalo. The 52-foot (16-meter) beachside Portal Maya sculpture and Our Lady of Carmen church are also must-see attractions. And, of course, set aside some time to visit the beaches.
Address: Av Benito Juárez LB, Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Centro Ecologico Sian Ka'an
The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses numerous habitats. The variety of flora and fauna in Sian Ka'an is astounding, and the site is known to include 23 Mayan archeological sites, some of which date as far back as 2,300 years ago.
Explore the eco-tourism and education center and see how the Sian Ka'an Ecological Center serves as model for sustainable development in tropical ecosystems. The revenue generated from the center's activities fund conservation programs within the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve.
Practical Info
The Sian Ka'an Ecological Center is near Mayan ruins at Tulum and a section of the reserve is actually located in the Caribbean Sea as a coral reef. The center prides itself on using ecologically responsible technologies and promoting biodiversity.
Address: Federal Road (307) Cancun-Tulum, #68 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico, Tulum, Mexico
Hours: Open daily 9am - 2pm and 4pm - 8pm
Admission: Deluxe Tent Cabin: US$80 - US$120, Double Tent Cabin: US$65 - US$100. Tours have separate fees
From $ 120
Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park
With its unspoiled beaches, lush nature trails, and abundance of marine life, Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park is among the highlights of Cozumel, set along the island’s west coast in the area’s National Marine Park. The Chankanaab name comes from the Mayan language and means "little sea," referring to the park’s natural lagoon. The access to the warm, turquoise sea is a top draw, as are the provided lounge chairs and hammocks prime for relaxing on the beautiful beach.
The Basics
Visitors can choose from an array of Chankanaab tour options to fit their budget and schedule. Book skip-the-line entry in advance to save time, or opt for a tour that combines time at Chankanaab with a visit to Discover Mexico Park.
Top Chankanaab activities include swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling in the warm Caribbean waters, as visitors can view the abundant marine life and unique underwater statues of The Christ, Chacmol (Maya god of rain), and the Virgin Mary at Chankanaab Reef and Chankanaab Lagoon. On land, beach park activities include lounging in the sand, taking a stroll through the park's botanical gardens, visiting the crocodile exhibition, watching dolphins swim and play, and catching a sea lion show. The park also offers a swimming pool and various add-on experiences such as spa treatments, a zip-line course, a tequila-tasting experience, and dolphin swims.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many tours departing from Cozumel include entrance fees or skip-the-line admission.
- A variety of restaurants and snack bars offer food (including fresh tortillas), or you can bring your own meals.
- Beach umbrellas provide shade, but be sure to slather on some sunscreen.
- Lockers, showers, and restrooms are available onsite.
- Snorkeling and diving equipment rentals are offered.
- Lifeguards are on duty at the park, and life vests are available.
- Beach wheelchairs are available.
How to Get There
Chankanaab Park is located on the west coast of Cozumel, just south of San Miguel, and is open to visitors daily from 8am to 4pm. Round-trip transportation is included on most tours, but taxi cabs can also usually be found lined up outside the park and parking is available. While Chankanaab can get crowded when a cruise ship pulls into town, guided combo tours allow you to visit multiple Cozumel sights without getting stuck in the crowd.
When to Get There
December through March is high season in this part of Mexico, and thus Chankanaab beach adventure park. Don't be surprised at the presence of larger crowds and possibly booked-out activities during this time; a guided tour may be your best bet. Arriving at Chankanaab when it opens (8am) allows you to get the most for your vacation dollar. Please note that the the park can be crowded when a cruise ship pulls into town, as Chankanaab is a popular shore excursion.
Maya Culture at Chankanaab Park
Maya heritage is celebrated in Cozumel. The Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park includes a recreated Maya Village, where visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of the ancient Maya people.
Address: Avenida Rafael E. Melgar, Cozumel, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
Cacaluta Bay
Cacaluta Bay is the largest and least accessible of the Huatulco bays. This heart-shaped Oaxacan inlet, which served as a stunning backdrop to the blockbuster Mexican film Y Tu Mamá También, has good snorkeling just a short swim from shore. Its serene setting offers a nice alternative to the noise and excitement of Santa Cruz Bay.
The Basics
Two distinctly different beaches make up this scenic bay in Huatulco. Cacaluta Beach is the larger of the two, with soft white sand and blue-green water that stretches around a secluded cove. The bay’s smaller, pebbly Arroyo Beach is just as pretty, but with gentler waves. Visit Cacaluta Bay independently or on a Huatulco Bays sightseeing cruise. Tours typically visit five or seven of the nine bays and include stops for swimming and snorkeling.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Huatulco’s Cacaluta Bay is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.
- Plan to carry enough food, water, and supplies for a day at the beach, as there are no amenities here.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Cacaluta Bay is by boat. You can also hike for about 20 minutes along a well-marked trail that leads from the main road to the beach. Taxis can drop you at the entrance to Cacaluta, but you’ll need to walk to the taxi stand at Maguey Beach, about half a mile (1 kilometer) away, to get a ride back into town.
When to Get There
Cacaluta Bay is lovely year-round; mornings offer better conditions and calmer waters for swimming and snorkeling. The rough, unpaved road that connects Cacaluta Bay with Huatulco’s other bays can be difficult to navigate during rainy season (May to October).
Cacaluta Bay Wildlife
Cacaluta Bay is home to an impressive array of wildlife and lots of indigenous birds, including several different kinds of sea birds. Many of the birds and other small animals make their home in the jungle surrounding the bay. In addition to bird-watching, the bay’s clear waters and ease of snorkeling from shore make it one of the best spots to see tropical fish and rays.
Address: Cacaluta Bay, Oaxaca, Mexico
From $ 55
Casa Cenote
Beautiful, underwater sinkholes flooded with light, the cenotes of Riviera Maya, Mexico are a natural wonder and a sight to behold. Though there are many throughout the region, Casa Cenote is uniquely located in a mangrove forest close to the sea. It can be thought of as almost an underwater jungle with its algae-covered mangrove forest and soft sands.
As it is mostly open to the sky, it is less enclosed than neighboring cenotes and often has more aquatic life to see. The cenote connects one of the world’s largest underwater river systems to the ocean. Because of this, it is possible to see both fresh and saltwater fish. The unique combination of clear freshwater conditions and underwater caverns and formations make this an interesting spot for scuba divers and snorkelers. Streams of light penetrating the water from the surface add to the beauty and intrigue visible from both above and below.
Practical Info
Casa Cenote is situated 10 miles north of Tulum and 70 miles south of Playa del Carmen. Accessed from the Carretera Tulum-Puerto Juarez, it is best visited by car or guided tour. The cenote is open daily from 9 to 5 with an admission cost of 50 pesos.
Address: Carr. Tulum-Puerto Juarez Fracc. Tankah Caribe Lt. 32 Mza. 3, Tulum, Mexico
Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
Admission: 50 pesos
From $ 69
Centro Historico
Built on the site of the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán, the Centro Histórico is both the historical heart and the modern epicenter of Mexico City. Centered on the grand Zócalo—Plaza de la Constitución—the sprawling district is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of historic monuments, museums, parks, and hotels.
The Basics
There are numerous ways to discover the sights of Mexico City. Stroll around the Zócalo and along Paseo de la Reforma on a walking tour; zip around the city on a Segway or bike tour; admire the illuminated streets on a night tour; or tuck into tacos on a food tour. Notable landmarks include the magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral, the Palacio de las Bellas Artes, the skyscraper Torre Latinoamericana, and Tenochtitlán’s Templo Mayor.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As in most major cities, pickpockets are common around the main tourist areas, so keep an eye on your belongings and only carry the essentials.
- Most museums in the Centro Histórico are closed on Mondays.
- Many Centro Histórico attractions are wheelchair accessible, but some of the neighborhood’s narrow, uneven lanes are difficult for wheelchairs to navigate.
How to Get There
It’s easy to reach most of the attractions in the Centro Histórico on foot from the Zócalo, but the area is also well served by public transport. The main metro station is Zócalo (Line 2), and numerous buses also pass by the square.
When to Get There
The most popular time to explore Mexico City is between March and May, when the warm, dry weather is ideal for sightseeing. The Zócalo is the center of many of the city’s festivals and events, including the annual Independence Day celebrations (September 16), the Alebrije Parade (late October), and the Day of the Dead parade (November 1–2).
Mexico City’s Aztec History
Founded in 1325 as an Aztec capital, ancient Tenochtitlán was built on an island on Lake Texcoco in the Valley of Mexico, and the enormous Zócalo was its spiritual, political, and ceremonial center. According to Aztec legend, a vision instructed the wandering Aztec tribe to build a city on the spot where an eagle, perched on a cactus, was devouring a serpent—an image that now adorns the Mexican flag. When the Spanish conquered the city in the 16th century, they drained the lake and destroyed many Aztec palaces and temples, rebuilding their new city around the Zócalo.
Address: Plaza de la Constitución, Mexico City, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 15
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park contains the oldest living reef on North America’s Pacific coast, home to corals, colorful fish, and larger species such as whale sharks, dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this marine park is a rich destination for reef snorkeling and scuba diving.
The Basics
Most tours of the marine park leave from Cabo San Lucas and include snorkeling or scuba diving excursions to the coral reef, allowing you to experience the area’s robust wildlife and varied coral structures. Scuba divings tours are available for beginners without PADI certification, as well as seasoned pros. Some tours also visit above-sea attractions such as Lover’s Beach, the Arch, and a resident sea lion colony.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park is an ideal destination for wildlife lovers, families with kids, snorkelers, and scuba divers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, a swimsuit, and plenty of water.
- It’s a good idea to wear a wetsuit or rash guard while diving or snorkeling to protect against the sun, jellyfish, and rough coral surfaces.
- Advanced dives require evidence of dive certification.
How to Get There
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park stretches from Pulmo Point to Los Frailes Cape on the east coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. Most tours include round-trip transportation from Cabo San Lucas, about a 2.5-hour drive away. Rental cars are a good option for independent visitors.
When to Get There
Diving and snorkeling conditions are best in October and November, when the Sea of Cortez is at its warmest. During summer (April through July), seas are rougher and temperatures are hot and humid, although you might find fewer crowds. Winter is the best season to see humpback and sperm whales, and fall is the best time for spotting whale sharks.
Biodiversity at Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park
This national park is one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Los Cabos area, with a rich array of marine life and an underwater world of hard coral reefs. A variety of tropical fish species such as pufferfish, yellow snapper, manta rays, and sharks can be found here, plus large marine mammals such as whales and dolphins.
Address: Highway 1, San José del Cabo 23400, Mexico
From $ 110
Cempoala
Cempoala—a name that means “the place of twenty waters”—is a set of ancient ruins in the heart of Ursulo Galvan that was once inhabited by the Totonac, Zapotec and Chinantecas people. This historic district’s name came from the aqueducts and irrigation systems that once flowed to the nearby gardens and fertile farmland. Travelers can explore the numerous temples that comprise this archeological site, which include a few landmarks that are not to be missed.
Templo las Caritas, the temple of charity, is a two-story structure decorated by hundreds of stucco skulls that pays homage to the god of death. Ornate murals and detailed clay faces, as well as a hall of hieroglyphs, make it a unique place for travelers to touch the ancient past. Templo del Sol, also known as the great pyramid, is similar to the Sun Temple in Tenochtitlan. It’s built on the same ground as the Templo Mayor and affords beautiful views of Cempoala.
Practical Info
Cempoala is about 26 miles northwest of Veracruz City. Buses depart daily from the main station. The ruins are located between Hernan Cortes Nte. and Carmen Viveros Cruze, north of Miguel Hidalgo.
Address: Cempoala, Veracruz, Mexico
From $ 78
Captain Hook Pirate Ship
There are dozens of ways to see Cancun but one of the most entertaining is aboard the Captain Hook Pirate Ship. Spend an evening enjoying dinner served by salty sea men followed by dancing on the deck and an all-night open bar.
The cannon’s fire signals the departure of this famous ship. As the night progresses visitors can enjoy tales from the high sea, as well as a live enemy attack complete with swords and pistols. A ride aboard the Captain Hook Pirate Ship is the perfect way to experience life on the sea without the fear of being forced to walk the plank.
Practical Info
An evening aboard the Capital Hook Pirate Ship includes dinner, an open bar and a live performance. Roundtrip transportation from most hotels is available for an extra cost.
Address: Playa Linda km 4, Cancun, Mexico
Admission: See website for prices
From $ 70