Choose from 73 Fun Things to Do in Riviera Maya The Yucatan
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 73 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
Sotuta De Peón Hacienda
At the turn of the 19th century in Merida, the henequen plant—a type of agave—was such an important producer of textiles that locals would call it “green gold.” All of that changed when the textile industry evolved toward synthetic fibers, but on a visit to Sotuta de Peon Hacienda, on Merida’s southern outskirts, you can journey back to the golden era was henequen was king. Tour an historic, grandiose plantation home that was built with henequen dollars, before visiting the mill to watch as plants are processed into fibers. The equipment used has been pieced together from farms across the Yucatan, and is a way to preserve the traditional methods of henequen production and harvest. Learn how the fiber is woven to make rope, or spun into high quality yarn, before bouncing around on a mule-driven truck like plantation workers of old. Having worked up a sweat on the hacienda, cool off with a dip in the hidden cenotes, allowing the cool, alkaline-rich waters to rejuvenate your senses. You can also enjoy a traditional meal that’s prepared at the hacienda restaurant, and truly cap off an enchanting day of Yucatan history and culture.
Practical Info
Remember to bring a swimsuit if you plan to swim in the cenotes. Also remember to bring extra cash if you want to purchase any of the handmade crafts or household goods.
Did You Know? Over 80 local Mayan families are still employed by the farm.
Address: Sotuta de Peon Hacienda, Merida, Mexico
Hours: Tours offered daily at 10am and 1pm
Admission: From $60-$80, depending on transport and lunch.
From $ 98
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
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.
Address: Merida–Campeche Highway 26, Uxmal 97844, Mexico
Hours: Open daily
From $ 19
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Address: Sayil, The Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 1,054
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.
Address: Mar 16, 4, Cancún, Q.R., Mexico, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 99
Tankah Park
Tankah Park is an ecological adventure park set in the jungle near Tulum in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Under lush trees and beside the crystal clear waters of cenotes, adrenaline-inducing activities such as zip lining and jungle trekking balance with relaxing canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and lounging. A visit to the park is a way to experience and interact with a variety of the natural landscapes of the area in one place.
The park sits above the Sac Actun underwater river system of the Yucatan Peninsula. The open-air cenote at Tankah is the largest in all of the Riviera Maya. It’s an adventure just to explore its fascinating rock formations and clear, turquoise waters. For the even more adventurous, the park’s two zip lines provide a unique perspective high above the trees and the water. There is also a local Mayan village to explore, with traditional crafts and clothing as well as refreshing traditional food and drink.
Practical Info
Tankah Park is a 20-minute drive from central Tulum. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, the entrance fee includes access to all the park’s facilities and activities. Be sure to pack a bathing suit, lightweight clothing, and sun protection.
Address: Carretera Federal Cancun, Cancun KM 233+200, Tulum, Mexico
Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 98
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.
Address: Km. 25 Kukulcan Blvd, Cancun 77500, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 65
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.
Address: Cancun, Mexico
From $ 15
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.
Address: Valladolid, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, Mexico
From $ 96
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
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.
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
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.
- 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.
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.
Address: Tulum, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 10
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.
Address: Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres, The Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 54
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
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.
Address: Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico, Mexico
From $ 115