The starting point is Cancun, where you can also stay for the first days of your trip.

Along the 22 km of coastline, you will find beaches for all tastes, some of them large and lively, with waves for surfers, while others are more protected and quiet. Don’t miss the archaeological site of El Rey in the Hotel Zone.

The Hotel Zone of Cancun, shopping, and nightlife will not leave you indifferent. Coco Bongo is one of the most famous local nightclubs, although there are smaller venues where you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Isla Mujeres is a tiny island that can only be accessed by ferry from Cancun.

Relax in Playa Norte, watch sea turtles, and swim with whale sharks. Don’t miss a visit to Garrafon Park, an ideal place for snorkeling, as its waters are not too deep and are full of bizarre reefs and colorful aquatic species.

You can also go kayaking or bathe in a temazcal (a traditional sauna).

The cliffs of Punta Sur are a sight to behold, especially at dawn. Nearby are the archaeological remains of the Temple of the Mayan goddess Ixchel, which gave the island its name before the Spanish colonists discovered it.

Rent a golf cart to get around the island. It is worth stopping at the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA), where 500 sculptures are submerged underwater, although you can access it from both Isla Mujeres and Cancun.

Taste local cuisine, based on fish and seafood.

Return to Cancun.

Holbox is a small island, without asphalt, of only 40 km wide and 1,5 km long, located on the north coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. There are no cars in Holbox, and visitors can only get around on foot, by golf cart, or by bicycle.

One of the main and popular attractions of Holbox Island is its bioluminescent sea, and Punta Cocos Beach is the best place to enjoy this amazing phenomenon that makes the water glow with every movement.

Punta Mosquito is a partially accessible white sand bank with panoramic views.

Isla Holbox is home to pink flamingos, pelicans, and other exotic birds, and the more adventurous can rent a kayak and explore its mangroves. The Holbox Island is also home to whale sharks.

Just a 30-minute boat ride from Holbox is the Yalahau Cenote (Ojo de Agua), a place with fresh water that, according to ancient legend, has strange properties: diving into its waters will make you feel 10 years younger.

Don’t forget to try one of the most typical dishes, lobster pizza.

Return to Cancun.

Leaving Cancun behind head to the next destination – Playa del Carmen.

Halfway there, stop in Puerto Morelos, a small fishing village, known for the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park. The underwater site is part of the Mesoamerican Reef. Its leaning lighthouse and beach are worth a visit.

Another option is to visit Xel-Há, considered one of the largest natural aquariums in the world. Take an underwater walk. On the surface, you can visit some Mayan remains – such as the Bird Building.

Xcaret Park could be another alternative plan: a tropical forest, a Mayan village, a museum, an aquarium, a butterfly garden, a sea turtle pool or an aviary are some of the activities you can do there.

Continue to Playa del Carmen where you will find a lot of accommodation options.

Playa del Carmen is an area with frenetic activity. Located in the heart of the Riviera, this cozy resort town combines natural beauty, culture, and fun. Its Fifth Avenue is famous, full of shops and restaurants.

Visit Cozumel, the largest island in Mexico. Cozumel is located about 19 km off the coast of Playa del Carmen. To get there, you’ll need to take a ferry from Playa del Carmen to San Miguel de Cozumel, the island’s main town.

Discover the boardwalk and Plaza del Sol in San Miguel.

Visit the Punta Sur National Park and Ecological Reserve and enjoy a beautiful panoramic view from its lighthouse, soak up Mayan culture at the island museum and the jungle-surrounded archaeological sites of San Gervasio.

Cozumel is a paradise for diving lovers, as it has more than 40 diving spots.

Delight in the local cuisine, where lionfish, prepared in ceviche, grilled or breaded with coconut, is the star.

Return to Playa del Carmen.

Drive an hour south from Playa del Carmen to the famous ruins of Tulum. Between the 13th and 14th centuries, this was one of the main Mayan cities and an important port, so its archaeological remains are located next to the sea.

This region is full of cenotes, lagoons, underground rivers, and white-sand beaches.

This area has a variety of ecosystems (jungle, tropical, wetland, savannah, and sea) inhabited by more than 2,000 species of plants, 345 species of birds and 70 species of mammals, as well as turtles, crocodiles, and iguanas.

Return to Playa del Carmen.

Three and a half hours separate Playa del Carme from Mahahual, your next destination on this road trip. It’s another of the best areas for diving in the Mexican Caribbean, as it has the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve.

The largest of Mexico’s coral atoll is located here. The bottom of the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve contains the remains of Spanish and English ships from the 16th and 17th centuries that perished in its waters.

Mahahual is also famous for its paradisiacal beaches.

After a hard day of sightseeing, and adventures, the best thing to do is relax in one of the local restaurants on the Mahahual Malecon (boardwalk) to enjoy local specialties such as ceviche, grilled fish, or tacos al pastor.

An hour’s drive away is the hidden city of Chacchobén in the middle of the jungle.

The next destination is Chetumal, a two-hour road drive from Mahahual.

Chetumal is the perfect contrast between the sea and the jungle. Its bay is a protected area, as it is home to numerous manatees (a native species of mammal that lives in the sea), birds, and marine fauna.

Take advantage of your stay here to tour the center, where you can visit its market, the cultural center of the Fine Arts, where you can see exhibitions and concerts, as well as stroll along the boardwalk and the bay.

Don’t forget to order a Machado or try its sea and jungle dish, stuffed shrimp or lobster with white wine, garlic, and butter.

Near the city, there are several archaeological sites of the Mayan culture, the closest being Oxtankah, but there are also others a little further away such as the archaeological sites of Kohunlich, Dzibanché, and Kinichná.

Return to Chetumal.

Start the day early with a visit to Bacalar, a peaceful and picturesque town around a 1.5-hour drive from Chetuma. Explore the Bacalar Lagoon with a boat tour, and swim in the crystalline waters of the Pirate’s Channel.

Take time to wander through the charming streets of Bacalar, where you can enjoy a quiet lunch overlooking the lagoon, and visit the Fort of San Felipe, a colonial-era fort built to protect the area from pirates.

Continue your journey back to Riviera Maya, which is about a 3-hour drive from Bacalar. You can end the trip with a relaxing evening at one of the Riviera Maya’s many beautiful beaches or a quiet dinner at a seaside restaurant.

Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos boasts pristine sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs. This small but charming coastal town offers a serene escape with its laid-back quiet atmosphere, attracting travelers and vacationers seeking tranquility.

The beaches of Puerto Morelos are amazing and tranquil places for a relaxing day.

Explore Puerto Morelos’ famous leaning lighthouse and enjoy fresh seafood at seaside bars and small restaurants. Immerse yourself in rich marine life on snorkeling and diving adventures or guided fishing boat tours.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is the largest city on the Riviera Maya. The city is a heaven for beach enthusiasts and shoppers alike. The vibrant Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) features an array of shops, restaurants, and lively nightlife.

Playa del Carmen is a gateway to the natural wonders and ancient Mayan ruins.

Akumal

Dive into the clear waters of Akumal and discover a world where the beauty of nature and marine life come together in perfect harmony. Akumal is more than just a beach heaven, it’s also the ideal place for snorkeling.

Snorkeling in Akumal is a must-do experience for every underwater adventurer.

Akumal is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, its captivating underwater world provides unique opportunities to encounter sea turtles in their natural habitat, adding a magical touch to the snorkeling experience.

The laid-back atmosphere makes Akumal a haven for seeking a quieter retreat.

Tulum

With their bohemian-chic ambiance, Tulum eco-resorts combine ancient wonders with modern luxury, a harmonious blend of sustainable tourism and breathtaking landscapes, providing an idyllic retreat for eco-travelers.

The iconic Tulum Ruins overlook the Caribbean Sea, providing a breathtaking backdrop to explore Mayan history. The town itself features trendy beachfront resorts, eco-friendly boutique hotels, and a rich culinary scene.

Tulum is a magnet for eco-travelers looking to unwind amidst stunning landscapes.

Paraiso Beach

Paraiso Beach is a slice of paradise along the Mexican Caribbean coastline.

With powdery white sands and azure waters, this beach destination invites travelers to unwind in a tranquil setting. Enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, engage in water activities, or simply bask in the sun.

Paraiso Beach is a haven for those seeking a serene escape with a touch of tropical allure.

Punta Maroma

Punta Maroma is known for its beautiful beaches and lush green surroundings. Nestled north of Playa del Carmen, this destination caters to those seeking luxury and privacy on the bustling rowdy Caribbean coastline.

The beachfront here is a postcard-perfect blend of turquoise waters and soft, sandy shores. Punta Maroma is synonymous with upscale resorts, providing an ideal retreat for travelers looking for an intimate and refined beach experience.

The are some luxury resorts in Punta Maroma and the surrounding area.

PlayaCar

PlayaCar, a resort community in the south portion of Playa del Carmen, seamlessly blends luxury and nature. This upscale destination offers exclusive beach access, golf courses, and a stylish atmosphere.

Stroll along tree-lined streets, explore Mayan ruins, and indulge in upscale shopping and dining experiences. PlayaCar is a distinctive destination for those desiring a refined beach vacation with a touch of cultural exploration.

Paamul

Nestled between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Paamul is a charming and secluded beach spot. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and pristine coastline, Paamul is a retreat for those seeking a quiet escape.

The intimate cove-like beach provides a peaceful setting, making it perfect for relaxation and unwinding away from the bustling crowds.

Puerto Aventuras

Puerto Aventuras is a resort community situated along the Riviera Maya.

This charming coastal small town is known for its upscale marina, which features shops, restaurants, and even dolphins. The local community offers a mix of luxury resorts, vacation rentals, and a golf course.

Scuba diving in Puerto Aventuras unveils an underwater paradise, where divers can explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine life, and immerse themselves in the captivating beauty of the Caribbean Sea.

With its picturesque setting and a variety of water-based activities, Puerto Aventuras is a popular destination for those seeking a more relaxed and exclusive coastal experience, away from the bustle of Cancun.

Xcacel

Xcacel, a hidden treasure along the Riviera Maya, offers a pristine and eco-friendly beach experience. Known for its turtle sanctuary, Xcacel provides a unique opportunity to witness nesting turtles and their hatchlings.

The beach itself is a natural paradise with soft sands and clear waters, making Xcacel an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a more untouched coastal environment away from noisy tourist crowds.

Xcaret Park

Xcaret is a sprawling eco-archaeological park located on the Riviera Maya.

Xcaret Park activities seamlessly combine nature, culture, and adventure. Visitors to Xcaret can explore underground rivers, witness cultural performances, interact with wildlife, and discover archaeological sites.

The park is known for its commitment to conservation and sustainability, offering a wide range of activities that showcase the beauty of the natural environment and the rich history of the region.

Xel-Ha Park

Xel-Ha is a natural aquatic theme park with the diverse marine life of the Riviera Maya.

The park is centered around a large natural inlet and lagoon where freshwater from underground rivers meets the saltwater of the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can snorkel, discovering colorful fish and other marine species.

Xel-Ha also offers a variety of activities such as zip-lining, nature walks, and cultural experiences. It’s a family-friendly destination that allows guests to connect with nature while enjoying a range of water-based adventures.

Ziplining at Xel-Ha Park is an exhilarating adventure, where thrill-seekers can soar above lush landscapes, enjoying panoramic views and an adrenaline-pumping experience in the heart of this natural aquatic theme park.

Explore the rich tapestry of the Riviera Maya with Coba ruins day trip, Chichen Itza guided tour, Sian Kaan, and Cozumel, each promising a journey into ancient history, pristine nature, and the vibrant culture of Mexico.

• Visit the ruins of Coba
• Visit the iconic Chichen Itza
• Visit the nearby Cozumel Island
• Visit Cancun and Isla Mujeres
• Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve exploration

Embark on underwater caves and grottoes journey through cenote tours. Immerse yourself in the sinkholes, where crystal-clear waters beckon for a refreshing swim, and the play of light creates a magical ambiance.

Cenote tours in the Riviera Maya offer enchanting adventures beneath the surface. Whether you are an experienced diver or just a novice, cenote tours are an exciting and unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Accommodations for every taste

Riviera Maya caters to various preferences. From small charming hotels exuding local flair to mega all-inclusive resorts ensuring a luxurious stay, the accommodation options are as diverse as the towns themselves.

Relax at luxury resorts in Punta Maroma, discover the charm of boutique hotels in Tulum, or enjoy a family-friendly retreat in the welcoming atmosphere of PlayaCar. There are accommodations to suit every budget.

Getting to Riviera Maya

Reaching this tropical paradise is convenient, thanks to the Cancun Airport. As the sole airport in the area, it is served by major international airlines, providing direct or non-stop flights from around the world.

Cancun Airport transfers, private shuttles, and local low-cost budget “colectivos” offer safe and convenient transfers to anywhere in the Riviera Maya. From Cancun’s downtown to Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Chetumal.

Buses from Cancun also provide regular service to Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen, offering a budget-friendly and scenic alternative. There is a bus service from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, the route takes 1 hour.

Driving in Riviera Maya is a viable option that offers flexibility in getting around.

Getting around

Zona Hostellera
Downtown
Punta Cancun
Museo Maya
Parque Ecológico Kabah
El Mirador
Nightlife

How to get there?

Ferry boats run from Cancun to Isla Mujeres and vice-versa all day.

Ferry from/to Puerto Juarez 8$ (30 min) every 30 min.
Ferry via Playa de Tortugas 16$ (40 min) every 2 hours.

Getting around

You can visit Turtle Farm
The 19th-century hacienda was built by pirate Fermin Mundaca.
There is a small ruin and a temple to Ixchel.
You also can take a Whale Shark Tour, snorkel at Garrafon Park, and swim with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery Park.
Swim at multiple beaches.
Or just rent a bike and go around and have fun.

Attention!

Don’t forget to check when the last ferry runs to Cancun.

How to get there?

A lot of buses during the day, estimated time on the road is from 2:00 to 2:45 hours.
Better to buy or reserve tickets yesterday evening.
Multiple operators service this route.

First Class bus: $18-$26
Economy Class Bus: $8-$13

Getting around

Downtown
Cenote Zaci

How to get there?

Bus: Valladolid – Tizimin $1-$21 (1:05 hour), each hour
Bus: Tizimin – Rio Lagartos $3 (1:15 hour), each 2 hours
Taxi: Rio Lagartos – Ria Lagartos Reserve $1-$2 (8-10 min)

Getting around

Guided boat tour

Attention!

Don’t forget to check when the last bus returns to Tizimin and then to Valladolid.

How to get there?

Bus: Valladolid – Chichen Itza $1-$21 (0:42 min), runs each 4 hours a day.
Then around 2 km more in a taxi: $1 (1 min)

Or just search for “colectivo”, they run directly to the site.

Getting around

The famous pyramid, mysterious cenote, and ball court. Just walk around and have fun, there is a lot to see around.

Attention!

Don’t forget to check when the last bus or “colectivo” return to Valladolid.

You could stay in Valladolid, walking around and take a bus to Merida by the evening.

How to get there?

Buses from Valladolid to Medira run each hour or even more often during all the day.
Multiple operators service this route.

Valladolid – Merida $4-$26 (2:15 hours)
Valladolid – Izamal – Merida $1-$4 (3:20 hours)

Getting around

Mérida has a “centro histórico” (“hisctoric center”) typical of colonial spanish cities.
Just take a walk and enjoy this beautiful town with a lot of history.

How to get there?

There are a route via Hoctún and another route via Euán.

Buses from Merida to Hoctún $1-$3 (0:54 min) run hourly during the day.
Buses from Hoctún to Aké $4-$6 (0:24 min).

Buses from Merida to Euán (1:00 hour) run each hour during the day.
Buses from Euán to Aké $1-$3 (0:11 min).

Getting around

The 19th-century hacienda henequenera with chapel also has a specialized area for raising deer.
The hacienda also has a small archaeological site of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization.

Entrance fee

The tour duration: 1:30 (approx):

MXN 250 (includes a free drink).
MXN 400 (includes free drinks and snacks).

Attention!

Don’t forget to check when the last bus or “colectivo” return to Merida.

How to get there?

Merida – Uxmal

Bus $2-$9 (1:35 hours) runs once daily.
Taxi $15-$19 (1:15 hours)

Attention!

Don’t forget to check when the last bus returns from Uxmal to Merida.

Bus Merida – Izamal $1-$4 (1:20 hours), each hour.

Bus Merida – Ticul $2-$4 (1 hour), each 30 min.
Taxi Ticul – Mani $3-$4 (15 min).

How to get there?

Buses from Merida to Campeche are $5-$28 (2:25 hours) and run each 30 minutes daily.
Buses from Merida via Umán and Tenabo to Campeche for $7 (4:10 hours) run every 30 min daily.
Taxi $30-$40 (2:30 hours)

…

How to get there?

Taxi $10-$20 (0:55 min)

Attention!

Don’t forget to check when the last taxi returns to Campeche.

How to get there?

Bus from Campeche to Chetumal for $17-$40 (6:45 hours) runs just once daily at 14:00.
Taxi $70-$85 (5:50 hours)

…

How to get there?

Buses to Bacalar $1-$2 (0:30 min) run each hour daily.
Taxi $7-$9 (0:35 min).

Attention!

Don’t forget to check when the last bus, “colectivo” or taxi returns to Chetumal.

How to get there?

Buses Chetumal to Playa del Carmen $14-$45 (4:15 hours) run each hour daily.
There are also buses from Chetumal via Bacalar to Playa del Carmen $18-$61 (4:50 hours), each hour daily.
Taxi $80-$100 (4:50 hours)

…

…

…

…

…

…

Bus to Cancun (1:10 hours).

Xcaret means “small inlet” in Mayan. Its name comes from its situation next to a small inlet that in the past served as a strategic location for navigation and commerce for the Maya.

The original name of the site was p’ole’, from the root p’ol which means “merchandise” or “deal of merchants”, which gives an idea of the economic relevance of the site.

Xcaret has many reserves that are open to the public. According to the research by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), the first buildings of the site can be dated to 200 to 600 A.D., but the majority of them are from the period from 1200 to 1550 A.D.

The constructions of the Late Post-Classical period are situated along the coast; some of them in strategic positions for surveillance.

The site had a wall, but unlike the one in Tulum that was open towards the ocean, the wall at Xcaret defended the site from assaults coming from the sea. The wall may also have served to divide the solid ground of the interior from the swampy ground closer to the coast.

Xcaret was inhabited at the time of the first stage of the Spanish incursion of Alonso Dávila and Francisco de Montejo into the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula (1527 to 1529).

In 1548, Juan Núñez was put in charge of Xcaret. At this time, a Spanish chapel was built. This implies that Xcaret remained an important settlement. The thatched roof of the chapel has disintegrated, but the walls remain standing.
The INAH divides the architectural formations into several different groups.

Some documents suggest that Xcaret was one of the most active and economically significant Maya ports on the East Coast. These documents make mention of marriages between the P’ole rulers and the people of Cozumel.

These marriages were likely for political advances; they imply that Xcaret was politically important.

During archaeological explorations led by archaeologist María José, 135 human remains were found in the chapel.

In another case, DNA found on site was analyzed, and results showed that “the distribution of mtDNA lineages in the Xcaret population contrasts sharply with that found in ancient Maya from Copán, which lack lineages A and B.

On the other hand, our results resemble more closely the frequencies of mtDNA lineages found in contemporary Maya from the Yucatán Peninsula and in other Native American contemporary populations of Mesoamerican origin.”

These findings suggest that the people of Xcaret are more closely related to contemporary Maya peoples than ancient peoples.

The Ecological Park is built in the same area as the archaeological site and has the same name, Xcaret.

The land was originally purchased by a group of Mexican entrepreneurs, led by architect Miguel Quintana Pali. 5 hectares of the land was purchased in 1984.

When he began to clear the land, he started uncovering cenotes, sinkholes formed by collapsed cave ceilings weakened by 3 million years of erosion from underground rivers running through them and flowing into the sea. He saw the potential for tourism and formulated the idea of an Ecological Park open to the public, and soon joined forces with Oscar, Marcos and Carlos Constandse, achieving this goal in December 1990.

At the same time, contact was established with the National Institute of Anthropology and History with the objective of rebuilding the remnants of the Mayan pyramids and buildings that were found in the area. The park’s administration subsidized all the operation and the INAH put in charge a team of specialists.

The nature-based attractions of the park include a river that goes through the Mayan village, a subterranean concrete sluice in which people can swim and snorkel with a life vest.

Near the inlet there are recreational activities at the beach, snorkeling, Sea Trek and Snuba in the nearby reefs, or swimming with dolphins.

The park also has a coral reef aquarium turtle nesting site. Next to the inlet there’s an area for manatees.

The park also has a bird pavilion, butterfly pavilion, bat cave, orchids and bromeliad greenhouse, an island of jaguars, and a deer shelter, among others.

The cultural attractions include an open church, replica of a Mayan village with real artisans at work, a Mexican cemetery, a museum, an equestrian show, Mesoamerican ball game, an open theater with performances of pre-Hispanic dances, Papantla flying men and the Gran Tlachco (theater with a six thousand people capacity) where the Mesoamerican ball game is represented, as well as the meeting of two worlds, the Mayan and the Spanish, and the presentation of several Mexican folklore dances.

Other demonstrations of Mexican traditions include Day of the Dead celebration and the “Travesía Sagrada Maya” (Mayan Sacred Crossing), an annual rite when Mayans would cross the sea from Xcaret and Playa del Carmen to Cozumel to pay homage to the lunar goddess Ix Chel. The modern version is a re-creation of this rite done in late May to early June.

The park also has a Temascal and Spa, has 11 restaurants, dressing rooms, souvenirs and handicrafts stores, as well as an adjacent all-inclusive resort hotel.

• Underground River
• Lagoons
• Natural Inlet
• Paradise River
• White Sand Beaches
• Maya River
• Cove and Ponds
• Coral Reef Aquarium
• Sea Turtles
• Manatee Lagoon
• Bee Farm
• Butterfly Pavilion
• Deer Island
• Ecological Tour
• Puma and Jaguar Island
• Monkey Island
• Mushroom Farm
• Bromelias and Orchids Greenhouse
• Jungle Trail
• Regional Wildlife Enclosure
• Crocodiles
• Tapir House
• Archaeological Sites Scale Models
• Fiesta Charra
• Papantla Flyers
• Archaeological Sites
• Museum of Culture and Anthropology
• Mayan Village
• St. Francisco of Assisi Chapel
• Mexican Corner
• Rotating Scenic Tower
• Snorkeling (Equipment available)
• Xcaret at Night! Spectacular
• Mayan Ball Game

Available at extra cost Tours & Activities

• Swim With Dolphins
• Adrenalina Jet Boat
• Reef Snorkeling Tour
• Sea Trek
• Snuba
• Swim with Sharks
• Xcaret Night Dinner
• Massage & Spa Services

Aviable equipment

• Life Vests
• Lock Bags for Personal Belongings
• Palapa Umbrellas
• Hammocks
• Lounge Chairs
• Inner tubes for Floating
• Showers
• Dressing Rooms
• Snorkeling Equipment
• Lockers and Towels
• Wheelchairs
• Baby Strollers
• Restaurants and Bars
• Photo and Souvenir Shops

Open all days from 8:00 to 22:30

Entrance fee

From $75 to$135 (depends on program)

Playa del Carmen by taxi or bus.

There is also aviable Tour Xcaret, the best luxury transportation service from your hotel. The easiest and safest way to get to Xcaret Park!