Cancun, Mexico

Heading to Cancun this year? Plan your trip with my tips on the best places to stay in Cancun, including neighborhoods suited to your budget and vacation goals!

Mexico’s beautiful Yucatan Peninsula home to beautiful sandy beaches and Mayan Ruins. One of the most popular places to base yourself is the city of Cancun, known as a gateway to to the Riviera Maya.

Formerly known as Nizuc or ‘point of grass’ to its Mayan inhabitants, the city now called Cancun means ‘enchanted snake’ or ‘nest of snakes’. 

But its far from a nest of snakes. Being the entry point to Mexico – Cancun is a vibrant city that is home to crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, luxurious resorts, and a thriving night scene.

The perfect base to explore the Mayan Riviera, Cancun is also well connected to Isla Mujeres, Tulum, Chichen Itza, Playa del Carmen and more. 

Your stay in Cancún will introduce you to Mexican delicacies, nightlife, and street food. It’ll also be the perfect chance to go scuba diving, snorkeling, explore nearby Mayan ruins, go shopping, and join some cultural experiences.

If you’re looking for the best hotels in Cancun to enjoy your stay, read this free guide to the best areas in Cancun and find the perfect accommodation for your budget!

Mexico Travel Restrictions 2022

Mexico is open to most travelers again, including American tourists. However you do need proof of your COVID-19 vaccination(s) or a negative test result before being allowed entry.

Many hotels, attractions, and private tours are open with new health & safety protocols in place, and you still have to follow certain guidelines.

You can find the latest updates on traveling to Mexico here.

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Best Places To Stay In Cancun Guide

Top Neighborhoods In Cancun

Zona Hotelera

Zona Hotelera is Cancun’s main tourist district where you’ll find the higher-end resorts that cater to tourists. Stay here and you’ll find restaurants, shopping malls, and a happening night-life scene. Extending all the way from Puerto Cancun to Punta Nizuc. It’s also where some of the best beaches in Cancun are located.  

El Centro (Downtown) Cancun

The place to be if you want to feel the heartbeat of the city. Watching busy locals go about their days, eating street food at stalls, or visiting affordable night clubs and restaurants. El Centro offers more affordable budget accommodation options than other parts of Cancun.

Costa Mujeres

At the far North end of the Zona Hotelera sits Playa Mujeres (Costa Mujeres) – a newer developed luxury resort area of Cancun. A bit closer to El Centro and Puerto Juarez, this area is not as crowded as Zona Hotelera. If you’re looking for a bit more peace and quiet on a holiday with the family, Playa Mujeres is a top choice. 

Puerto Juarez

Situated about 2 km from the center of Cancun, Puerto Juarez is another good place to stay in Cancun if you’re on a budget. It’s quieter than the city center, but not as touristy as Zona Hotelera. It’s also the perfect place to stay if you plan to visit Isla Mujeres, since the Ultramar Ferry to the island leaves from here twice and hour.

Zona Hotelera – Where To Stay For First Time Visitors

Luxury Hotels In The Hotel Zone ($200+ USD)

• Ritz Carlton Cancun – The luxury AAA Five Diamond Award winner, the Ritz Carlton is within walking distance of popular beaches Playa Marlin and Playa Ballenas. Guests will enjoy the 2 swimming pools, Kayanta Spa, 7 onsite restaurants, kids club and a teens club. Elegantly decorated rooms with the best amenities, Ipod docking stations, Egyptian cotton sheets, private beach cabanas, what more can you ask for?
• Nizuc Resort & Spa – Situated on Boulevard Kukulcan in Zona Hotelera’s Punta Nizuc, the Nizuc Resort is one of the best places to stay in Cancun. Guests at this 29-acre beachfront resort can soak in the most luxurious environment catering to all their needs. Enjoy access to 6 international restaurants, 2 swimming pools, a top-grade fitness center, spa and wellness treatments, thermal experiences, free parking, free WiFi, and the best amenities.

Mid-Range Hotels In The Hotel Zone ($150 – $190 USD)

• Renaissance Cancun Resort – Located in the Puerto Cancun section of Zona Hotelera, the Renaissance Cancun is within walking distance of the Marina Town Center, restaurants and a shopping center. There’s a free shuttle to the beach, a sauna, infinity pool, beach club, and spacious rooms and suites with every amenity you need. 
• Marriott Cancun Resort – Set on the beachfront of the Caribbean sea, the large spacious rooms at the Marriott are perfect for a luxurious stay at not-so-luxurious prices. Guests have access to 8 international restaurants including Japanese and Thai, free WiFi, fitness center, and the top amenities. Day care programs to take care of kids too.

Budget Hotels In The Hotel Zone ($50 – $100 USD)

• Mayan Monkey Hotel & Hostel – Previously known as Senor Frog, and right in the heart of Zona Hotelera, the Mayan Monkey Hostel is within walking distance of beaches, restaurants and bars. You can either choose from dorm rooms, double rooms, or a suite. Free WiFi, free private parking, barbecue facilities, a lounge, bar, and pool make this hostel perfect! 

El Centro Neighborhood – Cancun On A Budget

Mid-Range Hotels In El Centro ($150 – $190 USD)

• Selina Cancun Downtown – Within walking distance of the Cancun Bus Station and Cristo Rey Church, this Selina Hotel offers a swimming pool, free WiFi and free onsite parking. Pets are allowed at a charge, and guests have access to a shared kitchen, breakfast at the onsite restaurant, as well as access to a co-working space. Whether you choose the dorms, apartments or rooms, you’ll enjoy your stay at this colorful hotel. 
• El Rey Del Caribe – Located right in the heart of downtown Cancun, this eco-hotel has a hot tub, terrace, swimming pool and garden area. They have solar water heaters, and recycle all waste water, and use rain-water collection systems. Just one mile from Cancun’s famous beaches.

Budget Hotels In El Centro ($50 – $100 USD)

• Casa Blanca Boutique – You’ll love the bright and colorful rooms and furnishings at this El Centro bed & breakfast which allows pets on request. Guests have access to the onsite pool, continental breakfasts, rooms with balconies, and friendly advice from an accessible host. And in keeping with its organic mantra even the coffee here is organic!
• Gaia Studios – The rooms at Gaia come with kitchens, flat-screen TVs and a private bathroom. Some rooms have air conditioning and/or a balcony. Located in a nice area of downtown Cancun, close to the family-friendly park “Parque las Palapas”. They also offer airport shuttle service for an extra fee.
• Nomads Hotel – Featuring a rooftop pool and huge bar, this hostel is set 3-minutes from the main bus stop in Downtown Cancun. Apart from free WiFi and parking, this adults-only hostel offers access to a shared kitchen, loungers, and is within walking distance of good nightlife.

Puerto Juarez – Cancun’s Newest Area

Luxury Hotels In Puerto Juarez ($200+ USD)

• Dreams Vista Cancun – A super nice luxury resort in Cancun’s Puerto Juarez area, it boasts a private beach, huge swimming pool, children’s playground, fitness center, and free WiFi. They have a spa, golf course, and water slides too.
• Planet Hollywood Resort Cancun – This fancy all-inclusive resort is adults only, and just a 10-minute walk away from Cancun’s Playa Blanca beach. The offer free parking, multiple outdoor swimming pools, bars, a spa and a fitness center. There’s also an in-house movie theater.

Budget Hotels In Puerto Juarez ($50 – $100 USD)

• Hotel Del Sol – Offering free continental breakfasts at their onsite restaurant, Hotel Del Sol is just 450 meters from Playa Blanca and a world of water activities. The affordable compact bedrooms include free WiFi and air conditioning, and has the best amenities for a budget hotel.

Costa Mujeres – Luxury Beach & Golf Resorts

Luxury Hotels In Costa Mujeres ($200+ USD)

• Secrets Playa Mujeres – An adults-only all-inclusive resort offering Junior Suites and ocean-front Master Suites. They have a private beach, luxuriously decorated rooms, 7 international restaurants, an elegant spa, top-notch fitness center, and everything you need for a fantastic holiday. It’s pet-friendly too! 

FAQ: Top Cancun Questions

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READ MORE MEXICO TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide on where to stay in Cancun! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:

• Fun Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen
• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Cancun
• How To Visit Chichen Itza Ruins
• The Best Mayan Ruins In Mexico
• Useful Tips For Visiting Tulum
• Best Cenotes For Swimming In Mexico

Do you have any questions about where to stay in Cancun? Are you planning a trip to Mexico? Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to share!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

One of my favorite things to do in Mexico is swim in the beautiful cenotes of the Yucatan. Here are tips for visiting a cenote in Mexico, and how to enjoy them responsibly.

Cenotes in Mexico are super cool! The Mayan people used cenotes to supply their ancient cities (like Chichen Itza) with fresh water, as well as a sacred place to conduct sacrificial offerings to their gods.

Ancient artifacts and even human bones have been discovered in many.

Offerings were made to the Mayan god Chaac, the god of rain, when drought threatened the area. The Maya also believed these underground wells were entrances to the afterlife.

Despite their slightly creepy history, these days cenotes in Mexico are enjoyed by foreigners and locals alike as refreshing jungle swimming holes and cave diving hot-spots. No trip to Mexico is complete without swimming in a cenote!

Here you’ll find details about Tulum cenotes, as well as cenotes near Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Valladolid too.

After spending years living in and regularly traveling to Mexico as a digital nomad, I wanted to put together a helpful guide to my favorite cenotes throughout the Yucatan Peninsula.

Mexico Cenotes Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of cenotes in Mexico. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Mexico Travel Restrictions 2023

Mexico has removed all COVID-19 entry requirements, including for Americans. It’s the perfect time to visit Mexico!

You can find the latest updates on traveling to Mexico here.

Get Travel Insurance

Protect yourself from injury, illness, or theft. SafetyWing offers affordable travel insurance that covers COVID-19 too!

Click For Details

Best Cenotes In Mexico

What Exactly Is A Cenote?

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its amazing cenotes — natural pools of fresh water located in limestone caves. These pools are connected to each other through the world’s largest underground river system.

Rain water seeps through the porous limestone, collecting underground.

Cenotes themselves are created when the limestone surface collapses, creating a cave opening into this river system. Some cenotes are “open air” meaning the roof has completely collapsed, while “cave cenotes” may have most or all of their roof still intact.

Many cenotes in Mexico are home to a variety of fish and plant life, some even have turtles!

There are supposedly over 6000 different cenotes located in Mexico. Some have been turned into swimming holes for tourists, others are used for technical cave scuba diving, and many more are simply inaccessible – hidden in the remote Mexican jungle.

Best Cenotes In Tulum

Casa Cenote (Cenote Manatí)

One of my favorite Tulum cenotes, Casa is an open-air cenote that looks more like a river than a typical cenote. Jungle plants go right up to the edge of it, and it’s an excellent spot for snorkeling. It’s narrow but VERY long, so you might want to use a life jacket (they have them) if you’re not a strong swimmer.

Locals call it “Cenote Manati”, because there used to be a population of Manatees living in it. While they are no longer there, a friendly crocodile named “Panchito” does sometimes make appearances to swim with tourists. I wouldn’t pet it, but otherwise there’s nothing to be afraid of!

Entrance Fee: 150 MXN ($7 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Dos Ojos

Dos Ojos Cenote is one of the coolest cenotes near Tulum. It’s very popular for scuba diving, due to its “two eyes” (sinkholes) separated by a 400m long underwater tunnel. But it’s also fun for snorkeling, as there are plenty of caves to explore that are just above the water line.

Because Dos Ojos is one of the most famous cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, it can get crowded fast. It’s actually part of a huge cenote complex, and there are many different ones you can visit in the area.

Entrance Fee: 350 MXN ($17 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Gran Cenote Tulum

Gran Cenote (aka Great Cenote) is one of the closest cenotes to Tulum. In fact it’s possible to ride a bike here if you want to. It’s not super big, but has two cool chambers separated by a cave tunnel. They also have a mini turtle sanctuary!

A nice cenote for swimming and snorkeling, they also have showers and restrooms on site. It’s grown in popularity over the years, and can see huge crowds sometimes.

Entrance Fee: 180 MXN ($8 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Taak Bi-Ha

This cenote hidden in the jungle of Tulum is a special one. A full on cave cenote, it’s lit with led lights, but still kept looking natural, which I love. The water is super clear, and snorkeling here makes you feel like a cave diver. Which, by the way, you’ll see plenty scuba divers disappear into the abyss beyond.

It’s generally one of the less-crowded cenotes in Tulum, partly due to its steep price to enter compared to others.

Entrance Fee: 500 MXN ($24 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Car Wash (Aktun Ha)

The Car Wash Cenote is located right off the road from Tulum to Coba, and used to be where locals would wash their cars! Now it’s a proper Tulum swimming cenote where you’ll see tons of fish, water lilys, iguanas, and even some turtles from time to time.

Car Wash has a few wooden jumping platforms, a rope swing, and is another cave diving spot. There are a lot of downed trees at the bottom too, making for a unique underwater world to view while snorkeling around.

Entrance Fee: 200 MXN ($10 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 4pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Calavera (Temple Of Doom)

Cenote Calavera gets its name from the appearance of a skull, with three openings into the ground. It’s a very deep cenote in Tulum which cave divers love. Perfect for jumping from the sides (there’s even a narrow opening you can drop into).

It’s sometimes called The Temple Of Doom by professional scuba divers. There is a swing, as well as a climbing rope. They have lounge chairs for sunbathing too.

Entrance Fee: 250 MXN ($12 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Choo Ha

This shallow water cave cenote is located next to the ruins of Coba (about 45-minutes from Tulum). It boasts crystal clear blue water and many stalagmites hanging from the ceiling. It’s a dramatic looking cenote, and one of my favorite cenotes near Tulum.

The shallow water makes this a great cenote to visit with a family or small kids, although the stairs down are pretty steep and slippery. So just be extra careful! Choo Ha is actually one of 3 cenotes located around Coba, and it’s possible to buy a ticket that covers all of them.

Entrance Fee: 100 MXN ($5 USD)

Location: Click For Map

Kaan Luum

Laguna de Kaan Luum is a clear shallow lake with bright blue water which encircles a deep cenote (sinkhole). With a depth of approximately 262 feet, the waters of this cenote supposedly have magical properties.

Kaan Luum is also perfect for scuba diving or freediving with the deeper area cordoned off to prevent entry to swimmers. There are water hammocks, swings, and small tower that you can climb for a great view of the whole area.

Entrance Fee: 300 MXN ($15 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 4pm

Location: Click For Map

Tulum Cenotes Tour

Prefer a guided tour? Explore some of Tulum’s beautiful cenotes as well as some Mayan ruins.

Book Online Now

Best Cenotes In Cancun

Cenote La Noria

The best cenotes near Cancun are located along the Ruta De Cenotes (Cenote Route) just outside the city of Puerto Morelos. La Noria was my favorite of these cenotes. It boasts milky blue water, some rope swings, a jumping platform, and dramatic cave stalactites hanging from the roof.

Entrance Fee: 300 MXN ($14 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 4pm

Location: Click For Map

Verde Lucero

Cenote Verde Lucero is a fun one, with different cliff jumping spots and even a zipline! A very popular cenote that many tours stop at. They also have kayaks to rent here. If you are staying at a hotel in Cancun, these are some of the closest cenotes to go to.

Entrance Fee: 300 MXN ($15 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Sol & Luna

Cenote Sol y Luna is the first cenote you’ll encounter on the Ruta de Cenotes. It’s a big complex, featuring the cenote itself, as well as a pool, waterslides, temazcal sauna, ATV rides, and more. The cenote is large and green, with fun zipline and some jumping platforms. Lifejackets are provided (and required) here.

Entrance Fee: 350 MXN ($15 USD)

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Boca de Puma

A super fun cenote to visit near Cancun is called Boca de Puma (Mouth of the Puma). It’s actually comprised of two different cenotes, one in a cave, the other open-air. They also have a zipline course here, as well as a handful of rescued spider monkeys who roam free in the jungle, but aren’t afraid of people at all. One of them wouldn’t leave Anna’s side!

Entrance Fee: 400 MXN ($20 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Ojo de Agua

This cool cenote called Ojo de Agua has multiple openings (eyes) into the crystal clear water below. There are jumping platforms up to 20 feet high, and swimming through the caves below is super fun. You have to shower before getting in, and there’s a little place to buy lunch here too.

Entrance Fee: 250 MXN ($12 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Adventure Tour

Visit 4 different cenotes on a guided tour from Cancun. Includes kayaking, zip-lining, rappelling, and more!

Book Online Now

Best Cenotes In Playa Del Carmen

Garden Of Eden Cenote

Cenote Jardin del Eden (Garden of Eden) is a large open-air cenote just outside Playa del Carmen. It’s pretty popular with locals and expats, with lots of shady trees, multiple decks for jumping or sunbathing, and plenty of little fish swimming around. A great spot for snorkeling!

Depending on the time of year, and time of day, it can get crowded here. However because it’s big, there is usually plenty of room to spread out.

Entrance Fee: 100 MXN ($4.75 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Azul

Located right next to Garden of Eden, Cenote Azul has stunning blue water. The “blue” cenote boasts a nice small cliff you can jump from, a wooden boardwalk, and a few shaded areas to hang out.

There’s lots of small fish in this cenote too, who will nibble on your dead skin if you put your feet in the water. A natural Mexican fish spa! Make sure to walk the jungle path that circles the cenote too, it’s super cool.

Entrance Fee: 100 MXN ($4.75 USD)

Opening Hours: 8:30am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Yax Kin

Cenote Yax Kin is a wonderful cenote in Mexico for families and kids. This is due to its large shallow areas, something that most cenotes don’t have. They also have lounge chairs, and pathways that take you to even more cenotes that are part of the same complex.

There are grills and campsites available to rent too. Keep an eye out for all the HUGE iguana lizards who like to hang around this cenote! Sometimes they chase each other up trees. It’s pretty entertaining.

Entrance Fee: 150 MXN ($7 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Best Cenotes Near Valladolid

Ik-Kil Cenote

Cenote Ik-Kil is a super popular cenote near the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, and is often included as a stop on guided bus tours. As such, it’s often packed with people. Massive vines stretch down to the water, making it look very dramatic. While cool, due to the crowds, it’s not my favorite cenote in the area.

Entrance Fee: 350 MXN ($17 USD)

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Zaci-Ha

Cenote Zaci is located right in the heart of the Mexican town of Valladolid, and an easy bike ride from anywhere in town. It’s not quite as popular as others, but has a few different cliff jumps, some big black fish swimming around, and sometimes a little waterfall.

Entrance Fee: 30 MXN ($1.50 USD)

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Suytun

One of the most photogenic cenotes in the Yucatan, Suytun Cenote has become an Instagram sensation. Sunlight streams down from a hole in the ceiling, making for a very dramatic scene. Due to its popularity, it can get quite busy as everyone waits in line for a photo on the circular walkway.

Each person gets about a minute to pose on the walkway for photos, before they blow a whistle and let the next person in line get their turn. Makes a wonderful photo, but is not a very magical experience like some other cenotes can be. A bit of a tourist trap.

Entrance Fee: 150 MXN ($9 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote X’Canche

X’canche cenote is next to the Mayan ruins of Ek Balam, and part of the archaeological site. It’s pretty cool, and looks like a circular crater in the ground with steep sides. It’s about a mile (1.5 km) walk from the Mayan ruins, but they also offer bicycles to rent.

To get down to the water itself, you need to walk down a couple of very steep wooden staircases. The water is less clear than some other cenotes, so there isn’t much to see with snorkeling gear. There are some jumping platforms, a free rope swing, plus ziplines & a rappel that you do for an extra fee.

Entrance Fee: 70 MXN ($3.50 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 3:30pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Palomitas

This cenote in Mexico is a bit off the beaten path, about 30-minutes from Valladolid. It doesn’t see as many tourists as others do. It’s actually part of a 3-cenote complex. It’s a massive cave cenote, with a single hole in the top that allows sunlight to stream in. There’s also a knotted rope hanging down for climbing!

Entrance Fee: 150 MXN ($7 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 4:30pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Sac-Aua

One of the most unique cenotes I visited in Mexico, Sac-Aua has a giant island in the middle of it, creating a doughnut shape. They rent kayaks here, so you can cruise around the island. There’s also a jumping platform, and a bunch of iguanas hanging around. They also have a cavern (cave) you can visit, and will cook a traditional Mayan meal for lunch too.

Entrance Fee: 345 MXN ($17 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Secreto Maya

There’s lots to do at this cenote near Valladolid. A 22 meter jumping platform, 10 meter rope swing, caves to explore, and when you enter, you’re treated to a traditional Mayan blessing. There is also food, a swimming pool, hammocks, and a massive colorful mural to enjoy when you’re done with the cenote. Loved this one! It wasn’t too crowded either.

Entrance Fee: 200 MXN ($10 USD)

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

How To Visit Cenotes

Rental Car

The best site to book a rental car in Mexico is with Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

Renting a car offers the best flexibility for exploring and visiting some of the more remote cenotes around the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s my favorite way to get around! You can use my Mexico cenote map at the top of this article to help you find them all.

Take A Guided Cenote Tour

There are several tour options for visiting cenotes leaving from Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Some are part of Mayan Ruins tours, while others combine cenote visits with ziplining, ATV’s and other adventure activities. One popular option leaving from Cancun is the Xenote Experience.

Bicycle Or Taxi

Some of the Tulum cenotes can be reached by bicycle, as well as some cenotes near the town of Valladolid. For most others, unless you have your own rental car, you’ll need to hire a local taxi to take you. Often taxi drivers will give you their business card, allowing you to call them when you’re done visiting the cenote to get a ride back into town.

Tips For Visiting Cenotes In Mexico

• To avoid polluting the water in cenotes, most places require you to shower before entering. Please don’t use sunscreen either, as it can be harmful to wildlife.
• Many cenotes in Mexico provide life jackets for people who are not strong swimmers. Most cenotes don’t have a shallow area — they can be super deep.
• Some cenotes include rope swings, jumping platforms, zip lines, and will rent you snorkeling gear.
• Cave divers frequent some cenotes, so make sure to give them plenty of room, and be careful where you jump!
• Some cenotes can get very crowded, depending on the season and time of day. If you arrive at a cenote and see a bunch of tour buses, it might be worth looking for another if you want to avoid crowds.
• The water in most cenotes is pretty cold, as they are fed from underground sources.

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This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Tulum, Mexico

Once an idyllic sleepy village, Tulum has been transformed into a celebrity vacation playground. From cenotes to chilling on the beach — here are the best things to do in Tulum, Mexico!

Home to an ancient Mayan city, Tulum was once called Zama or “City of Dawn”.

Where is Tulum? This tropical paradise is located about 2-hours south of Cancun, along Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Boasting beautiful sandy beaches and crystal clear water, Tulum is also a scuba diving paradise with many cenotes and caves to explore. 

Tulum is a place where the ancient and the modern world blend together. Today you’ll find a mix of ancient Mayan ruins, yoga retreats, shopping, restaurants, and plenty of famous people who flock here to refresh their mind, body, and soul.

In fact, the Mexican government is opening a new international airport in Tulum (as well as a train) sometime in 2023.

I’ve spent a lot of time in Tulum over the years while living on and off in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, and wanted to put together a guide on what to do in Tulum for first-time visitors.

My Tulum itinerary is completely free! I’ve worked hard putting it together for you. If you find it useful, please use my affiliate links when you book hotels, rental cars or activities. I’ll get paid a small commission, at no extra cost to you! Thanks.

Tulum Highlights Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of highlights in Tulum, Mexico. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Mexico Travel Restrictions 2023

Mexico has removed all COVID-19 entry requirements, including for Americans. It’s the perfect time to visit Tulum!

You can find the latest updates on traveling to Mexico here.

Get Travel Insurance

Protect yourself from injury, illness, or theft. SafetyWing offers affordable travel insurance that covers COVID-19 too!

Click For Details

Tulum Mexico Travel Guide

1: Visit The Tulum Ruins (Archeological Site)

The Tulum Archeological Site is an impressive 13th-century cliff-top Mayan city which is the highlight of any trip to Tulum. Set 12-meters high overlooking the shimmering Caribbean sea, the ruins are the perfect backdrop for photos.

The 5-meter tall walls that surrounded the city, may have something to do with the name Tulum, which is the Maya word for fence. 

Some important structures at the Tulum ruins are the Templo Dios del Viento or Temple of the God of the Wind, Pyramid El Castillo, Temple of the Descending God, and the Temple of the Frescoes. 

Gates open at 8 AM, but the lines can be long so I recommend arriving about an hour earlier, if you want to be first in line. Or you can also join a guided tour.

➜ Read My Guide To Visiting Tulum’s Ruins Here

Tour Of Tulum & Coba

Explore 2 archaeological sites in one day, as well as a Mayan village and swimming in a cenote.

Book Online Now

2: Explore Tulum Pueblo (El Centro)

Tulum is actually split up into 3 different areas, all commonly described as “Tulum”, which can make things a bit confusing for first time visitors.

Tulum Town (aka Tulum Pueblo, or El Centro) is where locals in Tulum actually do business. Here you’ll find grocery stores, local restaurants, and other Mexican shops.

Tulum Beach (aka Tulum Hotel Zone) is where all the beaches, resorts, and tourist shopping is. This is actually a 5-10 minute drive away from Tulum Town. Walking this distance would take about an hour (not recommended). A bike or taxi should be used instead.

And finally there are the Tulum Ruins, which I described above. The ruins are located North of both the town and the beach.

A few good places to stop in Tulum Town to get a feel for local Mexican life include La Chiapaneca for street tacos, Del Cielo for breakfast or brunch, and Huerto del Eden if you love fresh juice and coffee.

3: Relax On Tulum’s Best Beaches

Tulum has so many lush beaches with soft sands and dazzling waters, it’s difficult to choose which beach to get some sun at. While Mexican law guarantees public access to all beaches, many hotels in Tulum attempt to charge tourists a fee to “use their lounge chairs”.

Here are our top choices amongst Tulum’s white sandy beaches. 

• Playa Paraisao boasts powder white sands, clear shallow waters, beach bars and coconut palms. 
• Playa Ruinas is the isolated beach directly below the Tulum Ruins. Only accessible from the archeological site, it opens around 10am.
• Ziggy’s Beach is a beach club that costs $35 USD to enter, but includes use of a lounge chair. This family friendly beach is perfect for travelers with kids.
• Santa Fe Beach is a relaxing public beach north of Playa Paraisao, and just South of the ruins. It’s dotted with tiny beach bars to grab a bite or drink.
• Mirador Tulum Beach is the place to go for sunrise if you’re looking for a quiet place to chill.

One thing most people don’t know is that Tulum can sometimes get hit with a sargassum seaweed invasion, making the pristine white sand beaches — a little less pristine. The seaweed comes and goes each year, and if you’re unlucky, it may be around during your visit.

Hotels and resorts try to clean it up from the beaches when they can, but sometimes it can overwhelm an area. The seaweed is harmless, but it can start to rot and smell bad if it isn’t removed right away.

4: Sian Ka’an Biosphere

Sian Ka’an means “gate to heaven” or “origin of the sky”. The Sian Ka’an Biosphere is located just south of Tulum, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. 

Sian Ka’an covers 5280 km² and is home to over 300 species of birds, 120 km of coastline, diverse flora and fauna, coral reefs, a lagoon and around 23 Mayan archaeological sites.

A popular activity is to book a Sian Ka’an boat tour or kayaking tour to explore the jungle mangroves and saltwater lagoons. There are also snorkeling trips too. It’s possible to see dolphins, turtles, manatees, and all kinds of bird life on these trips.

5: Swim (Or Scuba Dive) In Cenotes

You can’t visit Tulum, Mexico and not visit a cenote. The Tulum cenotes are natural limestone sinkholes that provide access to Mexico’s underground river system for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Some of the cenotes also include underwater archaeological sites and relics. 

With the Riviera Maya being home to the largest underground cave system in the world, connecting thousands of different cenotes, there are many beautiful underground caverns and caves to explore. Some of my favorite cenotes near Tulum include:

• Gran Cenote – The most popular cenote in Tulum with waters that are considered sacred, it’s the entrance of the Sistema Sac Actun.
• Casa Cenote – Surrounded by mangroves with a tunnel that heads right out to the sea.
• Dos Ojos Cenote – Called Two Eyes Cenote, this one has great snorkeling and cave diving (if you’re a licensed scuba diver).
• Carwash (aka Aktun Ha) – Located right off the road to Coba, Carwash was once used for washing cars, but now it’s just for swimming or cave diving.
• Calavera (aka Temple Of Doom) – Looks like a skull from below, and is a popular spot for divers. But there’s a ladder and rope swing too.
• Cenote Taak Bi Ha – One of my favorite cenotes in Tulum, this giant cave boasts crystal clear blue water. Another cenote popular with cave divers.

➜ Read My Guide To Mexico’s Best Cenotes

Cenote & Ruins Adventure

Prefer a guided tour? Explore some of Mexico’s Mayan ruins, and go swimming in a beautiful cenote.

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6: Take A Yoga Class

Tulum is a popular destination for hippie/bohemian/new-age types, and as such, you’ll find plenty of yoga retreats, music therapy sessions, and other kinds of health and wellness activities.

If you’re looking to unwind and immerse yourself in some yoga sessions during your visit, check out Naga Tulum or the beachfront yoga studio at Sanara.

7: Climb The Mayan Ruins Of Coba

About 45 minutes away from Tulum you’ll find Coba. Tall pyramids look out over the surrounding jungle. Once inhabited by almost 50,000 souls, these ruins date back to the Middle and Late Classic periods (500 to 900 AD) of the Mayan civilization. However, Coba has been inhabited as far back as 50 BC.

The most visited sites at Coba include the Nohoch Mul Pyramid, Sacbe, Coba Group, Coba Stelae, Macanxoc Group and Conjunto de Pinturas. One of the unique features of this Mayan site is the ability to actually climb the main pyramid — something you can’t do at other ruins.   

➜ Read My Guide To Visiting Coba Ruins Here

8: Visit Yal-Ku Lagoon

Just a 30 minute drive from Tulum, the beautiful Yal Ku Lagoon is a popular spot for snorkeling and sunbathing. What’s different about Yal Ku? It’s a cenote that flows into a lagoon that is also an inlet for the sea.

Because of the mix of sea water and fresh water, the lagoon is the perfect snorkeling spot. The shallow waters near the cenote teem with small fish, while the deeper waters near the sea are filled with turtles, rays, and bigger fish. 

There are stores nearby that offer snacks, plus snorkeling and diving gear that you can rent.  

9: Go Shopping In Tulum

Tulum is a popular shopping destination too. Boutique shops sell souvenirs, traditional Mayan clothing, and even some eclectic & bohemian Western designs.

Some popular stores to visit in Tulum are Wanderlust, Pura Vida Tulum, Arte Sano, and La Troupe. You’ll also find great buys at the street-lined stalls. Be prepared to pay Western prices though!

10: Eat At Local Restaurants

You don’t have to visit the best restaurants in Tulum, Mexico to get a taste of local food. Grab someamazing bites some of the local shacks instead. Here are our favorites. 

• Matcha Mama serves plant based smoothies, kombuchas and acai bowls, they’re very popular on Instagram. 
• Burrito Amor has some of the best burritos in Mexico!
• Raw Love is a vegan cafe with a hippie vibe that’s popular for raw chocolate and vegan delicacies.  
• Mexican Dining Experience is a unique restaurant where you eat at a communal table for a 7-course dinner and free-flowing alcohol while the hosts explain the food to you.
• Origami Tulum – Go here for the best gelato!
• Hartwood is one of the best restaurants in Tulum, where you’ll enjoy fire cooked meals made with local ingredients.

11: Check Out The Nightlife!

The nightlife in Tulum is happening, and beach bars are full almost every evening with weekends getting quite crowded. Here are some of the best bars in Tulum. 

• Gitano – Grab drinks at this open air jungle bar while snacking on appetizers!
• Papaya Playa Project – Popular for the full moon and weekend parties. 
• Todos Santos – Good vibes and spectacular cocktails!
• Batey – Popular for the blue-colored beetle parked outside, this bar is famous for its local cocktails using fruits like the prickly pear! 
• Mateos – This place is great for drinks, or lunch. They often have live music at sunset on their rooftop terrace!

And don’t forget to drink some Mexican Mezcal at any of the local bars. It’s an agave liquor that you’ll find in many Mexican cocktails. 

12: Visit A Mexican Adventure Park

Throughout the Riviera Maya you’ll find a series of outdoor adventure theme parks that were built to take advantage of the natural landscape in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Some of the most popular ones are Xcaret, Xel Ha, Xplor and Rio Secreto. They’re like organized adventures that will take you zip-lining through the trees, swimming in caves, driving ATVs, or snorkeling with colorful fish.

A great way for families to spend a day in Mexico, but adults will have a good time at these theme parks too. I think my favorite was Rio Secreto, because it feels a little more authentic and less touristy.

13: Water Sports Activities

The crystal clear waters of Tulum are perfect for water sports. Paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, wind surfing, and boating are popular. So are river tubing, and snorkeling and diving in the cenotes. But the most touristy thing to do is kite boarding or kite surfing, as there can be a lot of wind on the coast. 

On land, there are also jungle tours, zip lining and rappelling adventures in nearby ranches. 

14: Find Tulum’s Famous Instagram Spots

Tulum has attracted the interest of many famous artists & designers, so there’s lots of cool art & sculpture in the Tulum Hotel Zone. The Azulik Museum feels like you’re walking around in an acid trip.

Ahau Tulum has a giant wooden sculpture that invites you into its bosom. The Macondo restaurant in Nomade looks like a Moroccan Dream. 

And then there are the murals by local artists that can be found all around Tulum Town. It’s an Instagram addict’s dream come true!

Some of my favorite Instagram spots in Tulum include:

• Ven a La luz sculpture (Ahau Resort)
• The Colorful Tulum Sign
• Crooked Palm Tree (Playa Paraiso Beach Club)
• Beach Swings (Coco Tulum)
• Matcha Mama
• Follow That Dream Sign (Lolita Lolita Tulum)
• Sfer Ik (Azulik Resort)

15: Join A Temazcal Ceremony

One very unique thing to do in Tulum while getting a taste of Mayan culture is take part in a Temazcal ceremony. This traditional Mayan ceremony of purification takes place in a tiny hut made of stone or wood. You strip down to your underwear (or swimsuit), and enter the sweat lodge which is heated with hot rocks & water, turning it into a steamy sauna.

The ceremony is led by a local shaman, who conducts the ritual and takes care of participants. The temazcal ceremony takes place in complete darkness, as the shaman pours water over the hot rocks, chanting and using different herbs to summon spirits.

Temazcal was performed since ancient times, and seen as a purification ceremony that cleans the body, mind, and soul. As your body is sweating in the tiny hut, you enter a deep state of meditation, enhanced by the shamanic chanting.

16: Laguna De Kaan Luum

Looking like the blue hole in Belize, the Laguna Kaam Luum is one of the best kept Tulum secrets. The waters of the lagoon supposedly have magical properties and you’re allowed to take a swim for 300 MXN ($15 USD). For an extra 150 pesos you can also fly a drone here.

Kaan Luum is also perfect for scuba diving or freediving with the deeper area cordoned off to prevent entry to swimmers. There are water hammocks, swings, and small tower that you can climb for a great view of the whole lagoon.

17: Drive To Chichen Itza

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the most visted Mayan ruins in Mexico.

The massive city complex built by the Mayans thrived from 525 AD to 1200 AD. Entrance costs about 80 + 417 pesos.

One of the most popular places to visit while staying in Tulum, Yucatan, it’s a two hour drive from Tulum Town in a rental car, but there are also many organized tours that will take you there. 

Chichen Itza Tour

Skip the line at Mexico’s most famous archaeological site, visit a colonial town, and swim in a cenote.

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18: Rent A Bicycle

Hire a bike and peddle through Tulum on your own two feet. A bike is also useful to visit most beaches and restaurants that are a 15-30 minute bike ride from Tulum Centro (Downtown). Bike rentals cost about $5-$10 USD per day.

You can also choose to book a bike tour of Tulum to experience local culture, stop by some ruins, and hop into a cenote that may be off the beaten path a bit.

Classic Tulum Bike Tour

Visit the Tulum’s ruins via bicycle, cruise around town, try some fresh tacos, and hop into a refreshing cenote.

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19: Visit Pablo Escobar’s Beach House

Pablo Escobar was a Colombian drug lord who founded the Medellin Cartel and was shot dead in 1993. His mansion in the Tulum jungle was bought by art collector Lio Malca in 2012 and turned into an art hotel called Casa Malca.

Stop by to see contemporary pieces of art from Leo Malca’s collection as well as vintage furniture. But remember, if you’re not actually a hotel guest and would like to visit — you’re required to spend at least 1000 pesos (about $50 USD) on drinks, food, etc. 

20: Check Out The Muyil Ruins

Located inside the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, the Muyil Ruins displaying Peten architecture date as far back as 350 BC. Set along an old trade route to Coba, the ruins also known as Chunyaxché are very close to the Sian Ka’an Lagoon.

Apart from the main ruins such as the 17-meter tall Castillo, you can also climb to an observation deck to see the surrounding countryside. 

21: Head To Bacalar

Bacalar is a massive beautiful blue lagoon located about 3 hours South of Tulum. Also known as Laguna de Siete Colores, it’s a wonderful spot go sailing, kayaking, or check out a unique cenote. There’s even a shipwreck you can visit!

A trip to Bacalar is best done as an overnight adventure, and you can return to Tulum the next evening. You can drive yourself in a rental car, or take an ADO bus.

Best Time To Visit Tulum

January – April

Excellent weather, with lots of sun and mild temperatures in the 80’s F. However this is also the high season, so there are many more tourists. Lots of Canadians and Americans come down for the winter.

May – October

These are the hottest and rainiest months of the year. The heat and humidity can be too much for some people. September and October is also hurricane season for the area. Far fewer tourists though.

November – December

This is my favorite time to visit Tulum, because the weather isn’t super hot, hurricane season is over, but the high season for tourists hasn’t started yet.

Where Is Tulum (Getting There)

Tulum is located 131 km South of Cancun, about a 2-hour drive away. Most people get to Tulum after flying into Cancun International Airport. Search for the cheapest flights to Cancun on Skyscanner.com.

From the airport, you can book a private shuttle to Tulum or take the public ADO bus (much cheaper). Buses leave every 30-minutes and cost about 300 pesos ($15 USD).

NOTE: Traffic is terrible along Tulum’s beach road. A crowded mix of taxis, supply trucks, and tourists on bicycles makes it a mess. Be VERY careful on the road here, and don’t expect to get anywhere fast in a car during the high-season.

Rental Car

The best site to book your car is with Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car and drive down to Tulum, Mexico.

Renting a car offers the best flexibility to explore more remote and less touristy spots on the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s my favorite way to get around Tulum!

Tulum Taxis

There are no Ubers in Mexico, but there are taxis. Taking a taxi is what most tourists do, but beware that the Yucatan has a “taxi mafia” that charges high prices whenever they think they can get away with it. Always settle on the price before getting in.

Bike 

Cycling is a popular way to get around locally. For about $10 USD ($200 MEX) you can rent a bike for the entire day. Your hotel might have free bikes to rent too. If not, you can rent them from Ola Bike Tulum or IBike Tulum. 

Shuttles 

There are a bunch of airport shuttle services offering rides from Cancun airport to Tulum, and they’ll be sure to harass you at the airport exit. The most popular one is probably Cancun Airport Transportation. 

ADO Buses

Buses in the Yucatan Peninsula are run by the ADO bus company. You can use these buses to get from Tulum Town or Tulum Centro to the Tulum Ruins or Tulum Zona Arqueológica, or literally anywhere in the Yucatan Peninsula. You can buy tickets in advance if you want to, but most times you’ll be fine buying a ticket just before entering the bus. 

Other local buses include the Mayab that goes to the Coba ruins where ADO doesn’t reach.

Colectivos 

Colectivos are local minivans that transport a group of people to and fro. This is the cheapest way to get around Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula. These are what the locals use to get around the city, but routes can be confusing if you don’t speak Spanish.

Rent A Car In Mexico

Search both local and international car rental companies to help you find a good deal.

Check Latest Prices

Where To Stay In Tulum

Accommodation in Tulum can range from backpacker friendly to luxurious. The best areas to stay are Col Huracanes for the pubs and nightlife, Tulum Playa for the beaches, or Tulum Pueblo for something budget friendly.

Tulum Travel Tips & Advice

• Tulum has a persistent on-and-off seaweed problem, and it can cover the beautiful white sand beaches. Resorts try to clean it up, but aren’t always successful.
• Tulum is not like other parts of Mexico, it can be super expensive. It has also become a popular vacation spot for celebrities.
• January to March is usually very crowded and June to October is rainy. To avoid the crowds, it’s best visit in November or December. 
• Don’t expect amazing internet access in Tulum since WiFi is really slow in most places.
• There are only a few free public beaches in Tulum. The best beaches will require you to pay for entrance at a beach club.

FAQ: Top Tulum Questions

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This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Campeche, Mexico

Calakmul is an ancient Maya ruined city located deep within a jungle biosphere on the Yucatan Peninsula. Here’s why it’s my favorite archeological site in Mexico!

Not many people make it down to the ruins of Calakmul compared to the other famous Mayan pyramids in Mexico like Chichen Itza or Tulum — mostly due to its very remote location near the border of Guatemala.

Calakmul is far away from any tourist cities, requiring a pretty long & dedicated trip out there to visit the site.

It’s a real hidden gem for those who wish to get off-the-beaten-path!

Located in the Mexican state of Campeche on the Yucatan Penninsula, the ruins are extensive and cover 2 square kilometers (0.77 sq mi).

Many sections have never been excavated, and because it only receives about a dozen visitors per day, it feels like a true “Indiana Jones” kind of experience.

In this travel guide, you’ll learn tips for visiting Calakmul, along with some interesting history about my favorite Mayan ruins in Mexico.

Calakmul Maya Ruins Travel Guide

The ancient city of Calakmul is thought to have been populated with about 50,000 people. It was “re-discovered” and named by a biologist named Cyruss Lundell, who flew over the area in 1931.

Calakmul means “two adjacent mounds” in the Maya language — which makes sense as I’m sure the two main pyramids just looked like two mountains in the middle of a very flat jungle!

The city was the capital of a large regional state at the time. The Calakmul kingdom included 20 secondary cities such as La Muñeca, Naachtun, Sasilha, Oxpemul and Uxul. The population of the whole kingdom is estimated to be about 1.7 million people!

The equally large city of Tikal in what’s now Guatemala regularly fought with Calakmul — until Tikal won and took over in 700 AD. Eventually the city was abandoned and consumed by the jungle over hundreds of years.

Calakmul’s ruins and the surrounding jungle was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.

Opening Hours & Entry Fees

The ruins of Calakmul are open daily from 8am to 5pm. However remember that the drive to the ruins through the jungle takes over an hour from the nearest town.

There are a few different fees involved when visiting Calakmul. First, there is a highway toll of 40 pesos per person to use the 186 Highway which takes you to Calakmul.

After about 20 kilometers, you’ll reach another booth where you’ll pay the National Park Fee, which is 65 pesos per person. Finally, at the ruins themselves, the entrance ticket costs 55 pesos per person.

So the total fee to visit the Calakmul Ruins is about $160 MXN ($10 USD).

Calakmul Ruins Highlights

Pyramid Structure 1

Among the many interesting structures found there are two gigantic pyramids — called Structure 1 & Structure 2. Structure 1 is the second highest pyramid at Calakmul, reaching a height of 130 feet/40 meters.

One thing that makes Calakmul stand out from other sites is that you can actually climb these pyramids!

The steps of the pyramids are steep, and not very wide — maybe just the length of your foot. Some are narrower than that! You need to be careful climbing, and preferably not afraid of heights. Falling would be a disaster…

Pyramid Structure 2

The most impressive building in Calakmul is called Structure 2. This pyramid was built up a number of times over centuries to reach a final height of around 150 feet/50 meters.

It is the highest and largest structure in the Maya world. Nine royal tombs have been found inside the pyramid, some containing rich artifacts like jade masks.

The Mayan Ball Court

Calakmul has its own Maya Ball Court, where athletes put a rubber ball (representing the sun) into a small stone circle perched very high on a wall, without using their hands OR feet.

Some carvings suggest that the winning team’s captain was decapitated, which was a sign of honor. The ball game is over 3,500 years old, making it the first organized game in the history of sports.

Games were played to resolve arguments between rival cities or as an alternative to all-out war.

Chiik Nahb Acropolis

The Chiik Nahb Acropolis, or “Place of the Water Lilly” is an area to the North of the site. Climbing this Acropolis gives you an excellent view of Structure 2 for photos.

This complex is famous for incredible painted murals recently discovered inside.

Ancient Stone Stelae

Many great stelae can be found at this site too — large slabs of limestone that have been intricately carved with pictures and glyphs.

Unbelievably some of them still have their original color pigments showing! It’s crazy that the color has lasted so long…

The Biosphere Reserve

The ruins of Calakmul are located inside the massive Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, encompassing 2,792 square miles of protected jungle.

You’ll find all sorts of wildlife living within the reserve, including Ocellated Turkeys, Howler Monkeys, Spider Monkeys, Baird’s Tapir, Tucans, and if you’re SUPER LUCKY — the very elusive Jaguar!

The best time to see wildlife on the drive up to the ruins is early in the morning, or right before sunset in the late afternoon.

Getting To Calakmul

Calakmul is much more difficult to reach than other Mayan ruins in Mexico. I’ve visited 3-times now, once through a combination of bus, taxi, and bicycle. Plus twice more with a rental car (it’s much easier!)

Rental Car

The best site to book your car is Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car in Mexico.

CANCUN – Calakmul is 464 km (6 hours) from Cancun by car.
TULUM – The ruins are 334 km (4 hours) from Tulum by car.
CAMPECHE – Calakmul is 300 km (4 hours) from Campeche by car.

By Bus/Taxi

The closest town to Calakmul is a small city called Xpujil. There are buses that run from Campeche and Tulum to Xpujil via the Mexican ADO Bus Service.

Once in Xpujil, you can then hire an expensive taxi (the trip still takes an hour or so) to take you to the Calakmul ruins — they will wait while you explore for a few hours.

Rent A Car In Mexico

Search both local and international car rental companies to help you find a good deal.

Check Latest Prices

Where To Stay Near Calakmul

Because Calakmul is basically in the middle of nowhere, you’re going to need to spend a night or two nearby. The closest towns are Xpujil and Chicana. Here are some suggestions for good places to stay during your trip to Calakmul…

Camping In The Calakmul Biosphere

If you’re up for an adventure, I highly recommend camping within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. There are a few campgrounds located inside, and you can even rent a tent if you don’t have your own. The place I’ve stayed during all my trips is called Campamento Yaax Che.

Just be aware that camping overnight in the jungle is a very LOUD experience! Walking around in the dark with howler monkeys screaming at you from the tree tops is something you’ll never forget…

More Tips For Visiting Calakmul

• The ancient ruins of Calakmul are HUGE. Plan to spend at least 4 hours exploring the site, if not more.
• If driving from Xpujil, first you’ll have to enter the Biosphere Reserve. From here you still have a winding hour-long drive to the ruins.
• Yes, you can climb the ruins! Just like the ones at Coba. This is rare in Mexico these days, but I think it’s because this site gets so few tourists.
• You can hire a tour guide at the entrance for about $600 MXN pesos who will explain the history and culture of the site.
• If you go on a weekday around 8am when they first open, you may be the only ones there!

READ MORE MEXICO TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide to exploring the remote Calakmul Mayan Ruins! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:

• Ready to party in Mexico? Here are my top things to do Cancun.
• Road tripping the Riviera Maya? Read my favorite things to do in the Yucatan.
• Save money on your vacation with my ultimate guide to budget travel in Mexico.
• Stay safe out there with these important travel safety tips everyone should know.
• Upgrade your camera with my useful guide to the best travel cameras for any budget.

Have any questions about Calakmul? What are your favorite Mayan ruins? Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to share!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Plan your Mexico trip with my advice for the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen (hotels, budget hostels, and resorts) for each unique neighborhood around the city!

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, the Mexican city of Playa Del Carmen was once just a small ferry port for people on their way to the island of Cozumel.

Over the years it grew into a popular beach town in its own right due to a beautiful coastline, tasty Mexican cuisine, sunny weather, and central location along the “Riviera Maya” route.

Playa Del Carmen became a cheaper option than Tulum, and less busy than Cancun – exploding in popularity in recent years.

Visitors can explore nearby Maya ruins, swim in underground rock pools called “cenotes”, or go scuba diving to see one of the largest reefs in the world.

For those planning a visit and wondering about the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen, I’ve put together this free guide to the city’s best neighborhoods and accommodation options!

Mexico Travel Restrictions 2022

Mexico is open to most travelers again, including American tourists. However you do need proof of your COVID-19 vaccination(s) or a negative test result before being allowed entry.

Many hotels, attractions, and private tours are open with new health & safety protocols in place, and you still have to follow certain guidelines.

You can find the latest updates on traveling to Mexico here.

Get Travel Insurance

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Best Places To Stay In Playa Del Carmen

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Playa del Carmen, all-inclusive resorts are typical in Mexico, however, there are many other accommodation options like smaller hotels and guesthouses if you want to save money.

It’s important to book Play del Carmen hotels early to get the best deals.

Especially if you plan to visit during the winter high season, when finding a good place to stay can be much more difficult.

In this guide, I’ll cover everything from budget backpacker hostels to luxury Playa del Carmen resorts, vacation rentals, local guesthouses, and more — you’ll learn exactly where to stay in Playa del Carmen to have a great time.

Best Neighborhoods In Playa Del Carmen

El Centro “Downtown” Playa

For the typical tourist experience of Playa Del Carmen, El Centro (downtown) is the place for you. This is where all the action is. Stay right on (or close by) La Quinta 5th Avenue for easy walking access to great restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. This is the beating heart of the city.

The North End

North of Avenida Constituyentes is where the city has been growing, and it’s a little more “trendy”. There are more condos and vacation rentals up here than hotels. It’s a bit quieter than El Centro too — but still easily within walking distance to all the nightlife and action on 5th Avenue.

Playacar

Playacar is a residential development just South of Playa del Carmen. It’s split into two “Phases”. Playacar Phase 1 is quieter and more local, with just a few hotels (but some excellent beaches). Playacar Phase 2 is home to a variety of hotels, golf courses, an aviary park, and shopping centers targeted at tourists.

Luxury Resort Area

This area has a handful of luxury resorts for travelers with larger budgets. There are four Mayakoba resorts up here, as well as the Grand Velas. It’s not really walkable from here into the city center, so you’d need to take a taxi or shuttle bus.

Where To Stay In Playa Del Carmen

Most people prefer to stay near Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue walking street because that’s where all the action is. There are a variety of accommodation styles when it comes to finding a place to stay. The following list showcases some of the best options no matter what your budget — from backpacker to baller.

Coolest Airbnb’s In Playa Del Carmen

Oasis Maya

Paradisiaco

Studio #1

Luxury Hotels & Resorts In Playa del Carmen

Fairmont Mayakoba (Luxury Resort Area)

A 5-star all-inclusive resort, Fairmont Mayakoba gives each party their own private terrace, access to water sports and bicycle rentals. This resort is one for the luxury-hunters, with every bedroom kitted out with everything from a flat-screen TV to free toiletries. Staff can welcome you in any language, and the on-site restaurant caters to all manner of dietary requirements.

Thompson Hotel (El Centro)

The Thompson is located right on 5th Avenue, known for their great outdoor terrace infinity pool parties. All rooms have jet bathtubs and many have private terraces with Jacuzzis. Guests get free beach access through their sister property located only two blocks away. This hotel is pet-friendly too!

Hilton Playa Del Carmen (El Centro)

The Hilton Playa del Carmen is one of the top hotels in the city. Located right on the beachfront, with every room offering either an ocean or a garden view. The Hilton has a hot tub placed in every room, along with a great sound system, and a premium minibar.

Mid-Range Hotels In Playa Del Carmen

Reina Roja (El Centro)

Looking for a romantic hotel in Playa del Carmen? Reina Roja is for adults only. Enjoy your free welcome cocktail before settling into one of their very quirky themed rooms or relax in the rooftop pool. Keep an eye out for the creepy mannequins too!

Magic Blue Boutique Hotel (El Centro)

The Magic Blue has a great swimming pool and garden area, along with in-house massage services, and a selection of gourmet restaurants. You get excellent value for your money, with a perfect location only one block away from 5th Avenue.

Hotel Morgana (El Centro)

Hotel Morgana features 20 rooms designed to reflect Mexican history and culture. Every room is completely unique and the furniture is custom-made. They also have a rooftop terrace with pool and solarium, along with a local crafts gallery featuring Mexican artworks.

Budget Hotels In Playa Del Carmen

Hotel 52 (The North End)

Hotel 52 is located right in the center of Playa del Carmen with fun decorative touches from the owner, including a rooftop pool and great beach views. They offer massage services and are completely smoke-free for the health-conscious!

Hacienda Real del Caribe (El Centro)

One of my favorite places to stay in Playa del Carmen, it has a very tranquil atmosphere that really lets you escape the noise of downtown. The ornate hotel balconies frame a central swimming pool located right in the middle of the courtyard.

Fiesta Inn Playa del Carmen (The North End)

Despite being a budget hotel, Fiesta Inn has all the luxuries you might expect from a higher-priced place, including air conditioning in every bedroom and private showers. A shuttle to and from the airport is also very convenient.

Cheap Hostels In Playa Del Carmen

Hostal MX (El Centro)

Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, Hostal MX is right next to shopping, dining, nightclubs and the beaches. They have access to hammocks, a hot tub, good local transport and free wi-fi. A great place to stay if you’re trying to save money!

Yak Hostel (El Centro)

The Yak Hostel offers a free breakfast to all its guests, with a bathroom for every bedroom and even a charming little book exchange. It’s a simple but pleasant place to stay, close to the beach, and just around the corner from some of Playa del Carmen’s best nightclubs.

Selina Hostel (El Centro)

One of the best things about Selina Hostel is its social atmosphere, including a great outdoor pool area (often with good parties), bar, lounge, and a restaurant with a shared kitchen. The hostel rents out bikes too.

Vacation Rentals In Playa Del Carmen

The Elements Condos

Probably one of the coolest places to stay in Playa, we rented a condo here for 2-months! These vacation apartments come with everything you need to feel at home, as well as a massive pool, nice hot tub, and the best part — a private beach!

This complex has the only private beach in the area, so you’ll always have plenty of sand to spread out (and no one trying to sell you stuff). It’s located in the North End neighborhood, so it’s quiet, but within walking distance to all kinds of great restaurants, coffee shops, and bars.

BRIC Vacation Apartments

Choosing to stay in a vacation rental apartment is a great alternative to hotels, and might even save you money. They offer more space, better amenities, a kitchen, and give you a feeling of home.

I’ve rented from Bric Vacation Rentals before and had a great experience. They have options for all budgets.

Enjoy Your Trip To Playa!

So there you go, my roundup of the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen while on vacation.

Playa del Carmen is a perfect place to base yourself in Mexico, and each day will bring something new and entertaining to your trip – whether you prefer a relaxing holiday or a hefty dose of adventure. ★

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Mexico Culture

One of my favorite parts about traveling in Mexico are all the interesting ancient Mayan ruins to explore. Here are the best Maya archeological sites that you don’t want to miss!

Maya is a lifestyle; a community of settled people who have inhabited areas of Mexico and Central America since around 1800 BC.

Many people assume the Maya were wiped out — which is not the case.

The Maya community today totals around 7 million people who live by the traditions and are still native speakers of the Mayan language – rather than Spanish which now dominates the countries in which they reside.

However Mexico is littered with crumbling Mayan cities built by their late ancestors, pyramids of stone abandoned for various reasons and left to be overtaken by the jungle.

Many Mayan ruins have been excavated and opened to the public — but some, in particular, stand out more than others.

After living in traveling through Mexico for the past 2 years, I wanted to share some of my favorite Mayan ruins & archeological sites in Mexico to see in 2023.

Learn a little bit about the history of these incredible ancient pyramids and historic sites before you explore them on your next trip to Mexico!

Mayan Ruins Mexico Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of the best Mayan Ruins in Mexico. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

History Of The Maya

Agricultural people by nature, the Mayan civilization harvested crops such as maize and beans, clearing jungles for farming as they developed more sophisticated techniques to expand their production.

Spiritually, the Maya worship more than 150 Gods who they believe their Kings are related to; with one God ruling over every subject associated with their lives, for example, the God of Rain, the God of Agriculture, and the God of Death.

Though it may seem complicated to us, this extensive list of deities actually resulted in huge advances in math and astronomy plus the development of the famous Mayan Calendar.

Although the original Maya Empire was destroyed many centuries ago (due to drought, warfare, and/or overpopulation), the Maya people still exist today.

The modern-day Maya hide in plain sight, so to speak, living in Mexico while keeping much of their own traditions and culture from the past.

Mayan Archeological Sites In Mexico

History lesson over, it’s time to dive into the multitude of ancient Mayan ruins – and there are quite a few, with around 200 different sites in Mexico alone!

Over 4000 sites spread out all over Central America.

Work is still ongoing to uncover some of these, as archaeologists are actively engaged in extracting and understanding the secrets of ancient Maya, buried beneath a combination of thick jungle and time.

I’m going to help cut down this number for you, and share what I think are the 15 best Mayan archeological sites in Mexico. Let’s go!

1. Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins

One of the greatest Maya cities in Mexico was Chichen Itza – a sacred city which covers around six square miles and was once home to hundreds of buildings which were built in both the classic Maya period and the later Maya-Toltec period.

Chichen Itza is probably the most visited Mayan ruins in Mexico, since being named one of the New Wonders of the World. The highlight is Kukulkan Pyramid which stands at 75 feet tall and built for astronomical/sacrificial purposes.

Perhaps one of its biggest draws for tourists is the twice-annual equinox when the setting sun creates shadows on the pyramid steps that resemble the body of a serpent.

Chichen Itza can get crowded with tour buses, but if you pick up a sunrise skip-the-line ticket, you can basically have it to yourself for a while. The ruins are located a few hours away from the famous resorts in Cancun.

➜ Read My Free Guide To Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza Tour

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2. Coastal Ruins Of Tulum

Just a few hours away from Chichen Itza is the iconic walled city of Tulum perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. Tulum’s ruins feature a beautiful Caribbean beach (that you can swim at!), with incredible views all around.

Tulum was a major trading and religious center for the Maya between the 11th and 16th centuries. They traded turquoise, jade, cotton, food, copper bells, axes, and chocolate.

Because of Tulum’s prime location along the touristic Riviera Maya coast, it gets a lot of visitors. The site isn’t that big either, so it can get super crowded mid-day.

My favorite part of the Tulum ruins is the Temple of the Frescoes, where you can still see painted murals inside!

➜ Read My Free Guide To Tulum’s Ruins

Tour Of Tulum & Coba

Explore 2 archaeological sites in one day, as well as a Mayan village and swimming in a cenote.

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3. Maya Ruins Of Coba

Just 40km west of Tulum you’ll reach Coba — one of my favorite Maya ruins in Mexico. Covering 80 square miles and featuring 5 large lakes, Coba is a less popular destination with a real air of mystery about it.

Though archaeologists believe it may one day be one of the largest Mayan excavations, right now it remains mostly untouched so visitors can engage their imagination to dream up the story behind the many mounds and pyramids.

To really appreciate the natural spectacle that is Coba, visitors can still climb 120 steep stone steps to the top of Nohoch Mul – the tallest pyramid in the peninsula – and gaze out over the jungle-covered ruins. Coba also has some excellent freshwater cenotes nearby for swimming!

➜ Read My Free Guide To Visiting Coba

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4. Palenque

The Mayan ruins of Palenque are steeped in historical significance, and today stand as part of a UNESCO Heritage site surrounded by great trees and wildlife.

One of its highlights is the Temple of Inscriptions, which was built by King Pakal’s first son and provides records of over 180 years of the city’s history.

As well as its historical information, the temple is also home to King Pakal’s tomb, with humidity in the burial chamber so intense that the walls drip with water and individuals can only enter with special authorization.

5. Calakmul Mayan Ruins

The Mayan ruins of Calakmul house two very large pyramids and an extensive system of reservoirs that once provided water to 50,000 Mayans.

Located far away from most tourist attractions in the heart of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, a massive protected jungle near the border of Guatemala with wildlife like howler monkeys and jaguars.

Visitors can still climb to the top of these structures and take in the surrounding tropical forests, the expanse of the central plaza and the multiple palaces that lie around it.

Of all the Mayan sites in Mexico, this one is my personal favorite. You can get lost for a full day exploring the site, and due to its remote location, there aren’t many visitors.

➜ Read My Tips For Visiting Calakmul

6. Monte Alban

Monte Alban was one of Mexico’s first pre-Colombian cities, after being founded around 500 BC and supported primarily by agriculture through centuries of development and changing populations.

The city is located in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca, spanning a great many cultures as it remained inhabited for 13 centuries. It’s also a UNESCO world heritage site due to its historical influence.

Monte Alban is a popular destination for tourists as much of the city is still intact; including temples, tombs, palaces, an astronomical observatory, and even a historical ball court which would have hosted games of Ollama (similar to football).

7. Teotihuacan

The impressive ruins of Teotihuacan outside Mexico City is another mix of culture, with the initial founders still unknown despite features from a variety of cultures apparent in its design. It’s primarily Aztec though.

Items and artifacts found within the city ruins suggest that it was once home to a mix of elite people of the Maya as well as other cultures, making for an interesting historical analysis of the city.

Teotihuacan’s main attraction is the Pyramid of the Moon, which hides a plethora of secrets that are slowly being revealed as archaeological digs continue – years ago researchers discovered the bodies of animals and humans that had been treated to awful brutality in what is assumed to be a ritualistic sacrifice to the Gods.

Visiting the city today, you can explore the Citadel (large open plaza surrounded by temples), the Avenue of the Dead (the main road across the city that aligns with the setting sun once a year) and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon – some of Mexico’s largest structures.

8. Ek Balam

Another favorite set of ruins in the Yucatan, near Valladolid, is Ek Balam, meaning Black Jaguar in the Maya language.

You can spend the day exploring and climbing around the site before enjoying a dip in the beautiful X’Canche – a cenote sinkhole full of fresh crystal-blue water.

Ek Balam is also the location of King Ukit Kan Lek Tok’s tomb, which lies within the largest pyramid – standing alongside 45 other ancient structures.

Some of the main highlights are the walls surrounding the site, the views from atop of the highest pyramids and buildings, and the incredible works of art and calligraphy plastered on the walls of some of the remaining buildings.

➜ Read My Tips For Visiting Ek Balam

9. Uxmal Ruins

Uxmal is a set of Mayan ruins located near the Mexican city of Merida, on the West side of the Yucatan Peninsula.

In ancient times, Mayan high priests would perform ceremonies (including sacrifices) atop the religious structures in Uxmal – many hundreds of steps above the ground.

According to Mayan legend, Uxmal’s rounded Pyramid Of the Magician was magically built overnight during a series of challenges issued to a dwarf by the king of Uxmal.

Maya priests doubled as astrologers, and Uxmal was built and designed using astronomy to track the cycles of the moon and the stars. It was also used as a sign of power, as they used their superior knowledge to coincide religious ceremonies with natural phenomena such as the eclipse.

Gazing out over the ruins today, you really do get a sense of the detailed design and work that went into creating this great religious city.

➜ Read My Tips For Visiting Uxmal

10. Edzna

Edzna translates in Mayan to “House of the Itzas”, which has led many to believe that this particular city was the initial home of the Itza family – before they moved on to found the iconic site of Chichen Itza.

Edzna is somewhat of a mystery in many ways, and this contributes to why it is such a great stop on any road trip through Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

Though Edzna was a major city at one point in Mayan history (around 200A), in 1450 it was fully abandoned – with no obvious reason why. Edzna was then “rediscovered” in 1907, and today plays host to a daily Evening Light Show which lights up the city ruins.

When visiting Edzna, make sure to visit the Gran Acropolis, the Temple of the Masks – which showcases two masks, one honoring the Sunrise God and one the Sunset God – and the imposing Palace that faces the Gran Acropolis and is a residential building that runs from the North to the South.

11. El Rey

One of the smaller communities frequented by the Mayans is El Rey – which is actually located in the heart of Cancun. Visiting these ruins can take less than an hour if you’re short on time.

El Rey is considered a temple complex and, when compared to some of the other city ruins, is fairly unspectacular. There are none of the tall pyramids we come to expect with Maya communities, and the architecture is simple and low key.

However, what El Rey does provide is a sense of real history, as you walk amongst the structures and learn how it connected to come of the other Mayan cities nearby – both for trade and for worship pilgrimage.

El Rey is a nice one to visit if you are after some undisturbed exploring, and the nearby Museo Maya will fill the gaps for you in terms of the history and culture of the Mayan communities.

12. Chacchoben

Next up are the ruins of Chacchoben near Mahahual – one of the most popular sites of the Mayan era. Unlike many of its smaller counterparts, Chacchoben has only a portion of the site open to the public.

Many of the original temples are still standing in their ancient condition, awaiting restoration. The city was home to the largest community in its region by 360 AD, and was considered by the Mayans as the center of their ceremonious activity.

The Gran Basamento was the Maya’s most important ritual plaza. Surrounding the ruins is a deep jungle which is now home to a huge variety of plants and creatures, including jaguar, puma and tapir – if you’re lucky – making for an exciting day out!

Another thing to look out for is the traces of red around the base of the temples and structures – proof that these buildings were once coated completely in red paint – though the unrelenting sun is gradually causing further degradation to this as time goes on.

13. Templo Mayor

Continuing our exploration into the major cities of the Mayan era, we now reach the Templo Mayor – Spanish for “The Greater Temple” which was once considered the center of the Maya universe.

Templo Mayor is located in present-day Mexico City, considered part of Tenochtitlan and historically dedicated to both the God of War and the God of Rain and Agriculture.

The ruins stand next to an expansive cathedral, and it is said that stones from the temple were used in the construction of the cathedral; linking Mexico City’s levels of history.

Templo Mayor itself was once the scene of both coronations and human sacrifices – with the blood of the sacrifices supposedly feeding the two Gods to whom the temple was dedicated.

14. Izamal

Izamal was an important Mayan pilgrimage site containing one of the heaviest pyramid structures in all of Mesoamerica. It had its own glory days early on, before Chichen Itza took over around 900 AD.

Eventually invaded by the Spanish, Izamal remained a place of importance to the Mayans and the Spanish built a large religious complex which is still a pilgrimage site even today for Mexican Catholics.

In 1993 the site was even visited by Pope John Paul II! There are some interesting annual festivals here which fall in April, May, August and December.

If you pay Izamal a visit, make sure you keep your ears open, as the Maya language is still very much the chosen mother tongue in and around the “yellow town”.

15. El Meco

El Meco is a set of smaller ancient Maya ruins that aren’t well known located just North of Downtown Cancun. There’s even a 41-foot high pyramid!

These ruins were probably related to Isla Mujeres and an important port for the Maya in the Yucatan Peninsula.

To find them, head up Avenida Lopez Portillo (aka the Cancun-Puerto Juarez road) in a rental car, taxi, or collectivo bus. The site is located at KM 27. The ruins are just off the road on the left.

Other Important Mayan Sites

While much of the historic Maya empire was based in present-day Mexico, you can still find many ancient Mayan cities in countries like Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize too.

If you plan to continue your travels to these parts of Central America, I also recommend you stop by sites like:

Tikal – Guatemala

Tikal is one of the largest Mayan settlements in the Americas, located in Guatemala’s Peten basin and Tikal National Park. It was probably called Yax Mutal when it was a thriving city.

The Great Plaza is particularly impressive, flanked on the east and west sides by two great temple-pyramids.

Caracol – Belize

The Mayan site of Caracol in Belize was built around 330 AD, becoming one of the most important political centers of the Maya lowlands through 600-800 AD.

Copan – Honduras

The Copan Ruins feature large open plazas, as well as many altars and monoliths. It is also home to the world’s biggest archeological cut, revealing many layers of the floor beneath the Great Plaza.

It’s also home to the Hieroglyphic Stairway Plaza, with the longest known Mayan inscription (made up from over 1800 glyphs).

Mysteries Of The Maya

So there you have it – a snapshot of Mayan history, told through fifteen different ancient archeological sites.

In spite of the attempted modernization of the world around them, Maya communities have largely succeeded in preserving their identity and traditions; making them somewhat of an attraction for the many tourists who flock to their neighborhoods – both past and present.

Visiting Mexico without seeing at least a few of these historic archeological sites would be a shame, so make sure to pick a few and experience some history and culture on your next trip to Mexico! ★

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READ MORE MEXICO TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide to the best Mayan ruins in Mexico! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:

• Ready to party in Mexico? Here are my top things to do Cancun.
• Road tripping the Riviera Maya? Read my favorite things to do in the Yucatan.
• Save money on your vacation with my ultimate guide to budget travel in Mexico.
• Stay safe out there with these important travel safety tips everyone should know.
• Upgrade your camera with my useful guide to the best travel cameras for any budget.

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Have any questions about visiting Mayan Ruins in Mexico? Are you planning a trip? Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to share!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

I love Playa del Carmen! Below you’ll find my favorite things to do after living here for over a year. The best beaches, swimming holes, Mayan ruins, delicious food, and much more.

Playa del Carmen is a fun beach town on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, part of the classic Riviera Maya route down the coast.

Smaller and less touristy than Cancun, it’s becoming a popular travel destination for people looking for travel experiences that are more substantial than your typical all-inclusive resort.

I spent over a year living and working in Playa del Carmen as a digital nomad.

Lately, friends have been asking for vacation advice about this area of Mexico — so I wanted to share some my favorite things to do in Playa del Carmen!

My Playa Del Carmen itinerary is completely free! I’ve worked hard putting it together for you. If you find it useful, please use my affiliate links when you book hotels, rental cars or activities. I’ll get paid a small commission, at no extra cost to you! Thanks.

Playa Del Carmen Highlights Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of highlights in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Mexico Travel Restrictions 2023

Mexico has removed all COVID-19 entry requirements, including for Americans. It’s the perfect time to visit Playa del Carmen!

You can find the latest updates on traveling to Mexico here.

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Top Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen

1: Swimming At Cenotes

What’s a cenote you ask? It’s an underground cave filled with fresh water. The Yucatan has tons of them — sinkholes that open up into underground rivers with the clearest water you’ve ever seen.

If you have your PADI license, you can go scuba diving in these caves with a guide. Because there’s daylight near the entrance, a more technical cave diving license isn’t required.

Not a scuba diver? No problem. You can also go snorkeling or swimming at most cenotes. A couple of things to understand is that wearing sunscreen is not allowed, and most centoes have an entry fee of some kind, usually around $10 USD (sometimes more).

Some of my favorite Mexican cenotes near Playa del Carmen are:

• Cenote Dos Ojos
• Cenote Azul
• Garden of Eden
• Kantun Chi (this is actually 5 cenotes)

➜ Read My Guide To Mexico’s Best Cenotes

Cenote & Ruins Adventure

Prefer a guided tour? Explore some of Mexico’s Mayan ruins, and go swimming in a beautiful cenote.

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2: Visit Ancient Mayan Ruins

The ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum are located South of Playa del Carmen in the town of Tulum. Tulum was once a small but important port city that sits on the edge of a cliff, with a beach below where you can swim too.

Because Tulum is so popular, the ruins can be crowded unless you arrive early in the morning. Coba is another Mayan site near Playa del Carmen which sees less visitors. You can even still climb the pyramid there too!

Of course, everyone who visits the Yucatan Peninsula wants to check out Mexico’s most famous ruins, Chichen Itza. This site is a bit further away, about 2 hours by car.

Chichen Itza Tour

Skip the line at Mexico’s most famous archaeological site, visit a colonial town, and swim in a cenote.

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3: Playa Del Carmen Nightlife

Playa del Carmen’s nightlife is fun, but not quite as crazy as Cancun. Coco Bongo is one nightclub that I think is worth a visit.

Part Vegas show, part nightclub, and a bit cheesy — but it’s still one hell of a party. You’ll see flying acrobats, blockbuster movie characters, and rock-star impersonators take the stage in turns throughout the night.

Every ticket includes full open bar all night, so take plenty of photos because you probably won’t remember what happened the next day!

A few other good nightclubs that I recommend are Mandala and La Vaquita (just look for the cow dancing in the street!)

4: Swimming With Sea Turtles

Who doesn’t want to swim with sea turtles? I’ve always wanted to, that’s for sure. I got my chance at Akumal beach, 30 minutes South of Playa del Carmen.

The shallow blue-green water here is home to Green, Hawksbill and Loggerhead sea turtles that you can swim with.

To visit Akumal, the cheapest way is to take a colectivo taxi headed for Tulum from the stand located on Calle 2 Norte between Avenida 15 and 20 in Playa del Carmen. Tell them you want to get off at Akumal.

From the highway, it’s a 5-minute walk to Akumal Bay. Bring your own snorkeling gear, life jacket or rent some there. Swimming with the turtles is free!

Sea Turtle Snorkeling Trip

Snorkel with sea turtles off the coast of Mexico. Jump in and see these creatures in their natural environment.

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5: Parasailing Over The Ocean

Ocean parasailing is a hugely popular activity in Playa Del Carmen, with many boats ready to tow passengers through the sky while hanging from a kite.

The take-off can be a bumpy ride, once you’re up in the air, paragliding is one of the most serene and peaceful experiences on the busy beaches of Mexico.

As a bonus, parasailing gives you an excellent view of the coastline from above. Great for photos if you have a waterproof camera! Sometimes they’ll dunk your legs into the ocean for fun…

Parasailing Over Playa

Go parasailing off the coast of Playa Del Carmen. Awesome views of the beach from above!

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6: Best Restaurants In Playa Del Carmen

Hey, it’s Mexico. Mexican food in the Yucatan is cheap & delicious. Here are a few of my favorite restaurants to eat at when visiting Playa del Carmen.

• Los Aguachiles makes awesome seafood dishes. Especially their tostadas topped with fresh fish! One of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
• El Fogon is a super basic yet authentic taco joint with plastic chairs blaring the latest episode of Latin American Idol on TV, but order 3 or 4 tacos pastor with a cold beer, and you’ll be in heaven.
• Don Sirloin is the “other” famous taco restaurant in town. They have great salsa options, my favorite is the jalapeño and pineapple one…
• La Cueva del Chango is my favorite spot for breakfast in Playa del Carmen. Get there early, because there can be a long wait in line! Very cool aesthetic, with a fish & turtle pond. Order the chilaquiles with a fresh juice!
• El Pirata is the place to go for a massive plate of fresh ceviche for lunch. Can get busy, as it’s a local favorite.
• Feeling homesick? Don Chendo is a tiny Chicago-style deep dish pizza place will fix that. Great pizza, friendly staff.
• Dona Mary’s is probably the most authentic Mexican restaurant in Playa. They make awesome chicken tostadas. No English menu, no cutlery, and plastic chairs only. We were often the only tourists.
• Playa del Carmen actually has a strong Italian expat community, and the Italian restaurant Papa Charly makes delicious homemade pasta!
• Bio Natural is an organic store and vegetarian restaurant, with plenty of vegan offerings and healthy options. Great for breakfast!

Playa Food Tour

Get an introduction to Mexican cuisine while eating many authentic local dishes in the Yucatan.

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7. Explore Rio Secreto’s Caves

Rio Secreto is another adventure theme park on the Riviera Maya. A labyrinth of underground caves filled with water that you can explore.

Exploring them means putting on a wet suit, helmet, and headlamps (all provided) to hike & swim your way through this magical underground world.

Squeezing through narrow cave passages, sometimes with water up to your chest, or marveling at the massive chambers, full of stalactites, some large enough to fit a small house inside!

Rio Secreto Tour

Explore the Mayan underworld on a trip through mysterious water-filled caves.

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8: Zip Line Adventure

Zip lining is one of the hallmark adventures to do in Playa, so you can’t miss it, even if you think you’re afraid of heights. In fact, it’s even better if you are!

There are a couple of different adventure theme parks near Playa del Carmen with zip lines. One of them is Selvatica. They offer multiple packages with 10 different zip lines.

Xplor Adventure Park also has two zip line circuits, each with 7 different routes, with the highest point at 45 m (147 ft). All these adventure parks usually have other activities too, like ATVs and cenotes.

9: Salsa Dancing At Zenzi

Zenzi is a beach bar and restaurant, located right off the sand in Playa Del Carmen. While of course the food and drinks here are great, the real attraction is salsa dancing!

They offer free salsa dancing lessons on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 9pm. A live salsa band plays as guests and visitors join in or simply watch as local dancers show off their best moves on the dance floor.

It’s a great way to start the night off in Playa del Carmen before heading on to other bars and nightclubs around town.

10: Boat Trip To Cozumel Island

Cozumel is a small island off the coast of Playa del Carmen known for it’s pristine beaches. Normally a stop for cruise ships, you can take a 45-minute ferry over on your own from Playa del Carmen for about $13 USD.

An easy & cheap day trip is renting a scooter and driving it around the island where all the best beaches are. Or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can try hitchhiking around the island instead.

As long as there isn’t a cruise ship in port, you’ll have those white sand beaches to yourself. Plenty of stops on the way for lunch & photos. Jump on the last ferry back to Playa del Carmen around sunset.

11: Parque Fundadores

Parque Fundadores, or the “Founding Fathers Park”, is a public park in Playa del Carmen just north of the Cozumel ferry terminal along the beach with entertainment for the whole family.

While a playground entertains children, adults can take a stroll down the beach and check out the Portal Maya statue, sitting over 50 feet tall.

You might also catch a Papantla Flyer’s (Voladores de Papantla) performance in the park. A spectacular acrobatic show of men swinging from a 90ft pole by their feet! If you watch the whole thing, please remember to tip them.

12: Ride In A Colectivo

You can’t visit Playa del Carmen without using a Colectivo (group taxi). You’ll see these vans cruise down the street picking up locals. It’s an interesting (and confusing) experience if you’ve never tried it before.

They stuff as many people as possible into these things, and rides can cost less than $1.

Destinations are written on the windshield, but if you don’t know the names, it won’t make much sense. A good place to start is by grabbing one at the Colectivo station on Calle 2 Norte from Playa del Carmen to Akumal beach (mentioned earlier).

Remember to tell the driver where you’re going! It’s cheap, fun, and will push you out of your comfort zone a bit.

13: Scuba Diving In Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a great place to base yourself if you’re a scuba diver. Along with all the cool cenote cave diving areas I mentioned earlier, there are some decent reefs nearby too.

A few of the most popular are Pared Verde Ledge and Tortugas near Playa del Carmen itself, Gorgonians down near Akumal, Palancar Reef and Santa Rosa Wall off the coast of Cozumel.

There are tons of dive shops and schools in and around town, so if you’ve always wanted to get your PADI open water diving certification, Playa del Carmen is a great place to do it!

14: Visit Playa Del Carmen’s Best Beaches

Playa del Carmen’s beaches have been hit by erosion pretty badly over the past few years, and frankly the beaches down in Tulum or up in Cancun are a lot nicer.

But can still find a nice spot to soak up the sun while enjoying a fruity drink or going for a swim. Depending on where you’re staying, you may need to take a taxi or drive a rental car to get to them. Another option is to hit up a full-service beach club.

• Mamitas Beach Club is the “party” beach in Playa del Carmen, with tons of lounge chairs for rent, a bar & restaurant, and dance music pumping in the background. It’s where people go to be seen and show off. There’s a good amount of sand here too if you don’t want to rent a chair.
• Playacar Beach is the best beach in Playa del Carmen, but it’s a little bit out of the way. It’s located in front of the Playacar gated community, so you can’t just drive in. You can reach it by walking past the Cozumel Ferry Pier (and Señor Frogs Bar). There’s a lot of sand here and the water is usually calm.
• Punta Esmeralda Beach is the “locals” beach at the far North end of Playa del Carmen. You’ll find more locals than tourists here, and it has a little protected lagoon right beside the beach, making it good for families and young kids.

15: Walk Playa’s Famous 5th Avenue

You can’t visit Playa del Carmen and miss walking down La Quinta, aka 5th Avenue. It’s the main walking-street lined with all manner of shops, beach bars, and restaurants.

The cobblestone street is where you’ll find most of the city’s nightlife. It’s a lot of fun to find a bar or cafe, sit down, and watch the (sometimes strange) parade of people walk by.

You can spend hours wandering down the street, stopping into touristy shops, cafes, and trying different vegan smoothies. At night, street performers line the sides dressed in costumes, or break-dancing for tips.

16: Relax On A Rooftop Pool

After a busy day exploring the sights of Playa Del Carmen, what better than a cocktail while lounging at a rooftop pool.

Unlike many of the rooftop pools in the area, the Be Playa pool champions a laid-back atmosphere and provides a welcome escape from the loud music of the surrounding hotels.

Be Playa’s rooftop is small but cozy and a real treat after a long day. There are even a few tables and chairs that sit in the shallow water. Non-guests of the hotel must spend at least 200 MXN to use the rooftop pool, and it’s open from 10am to 8pm.

17: Xpuha Beach Day Trip

South of Playa del Carmen, but before Tulum, there are two great beaches that make for a great day trip away from the larger crowds.

A 20-minute drive will bring you to Xpuha Beach; a stretch of beautiful white sand lies interspersed with beach bars and restaurants.

The beach entry fee is 50 pesos, and you can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, snorkeling equipment, and kayaks here too.

18: Sunbathing At Xcacel Beach

A bit further south you’ll find Xcacel, one of my favorite beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula. The ocean is a bit rougher than at Xpuha, but there’s also a freshwater cenote to cool off in.

May-October is sea turtle nesting season, and some areas of the beach may be roped off to protect buried turtle eggs. If you’re a good swimmer, there is some decent snorkeling on the North side of the beach.

The entry fee for this beach is 10 – 20 pesos (for sea turtle protection). This remote beach doesn’t really have many services, although there are bathrooms.

19: Alux Cave Restaurant

For an upscale dining experience check out Alux Restaurant — it’s built inside an underground cave! This place isn’t within walking distance from the main tourist area though, you’ll need to take a taxi.

Aluxes are supernatural spirits who protect Mexico’s sacred places.

Colored cave lights created a mysterious atmosphere, while waterfalls set the tone for a romantic evening.

After dinner, make sure to ask for a quick cave tour, because the whole complex is MUCH bigger than it first looks! You may even see a bat or two flying around…

20: Frida Kahlo Museum

Frida Kahlo is one of those artists you either know or you don’t. A local icon in Mexico, Frida created portraits and self-portraits inspired by the nature and artifacts of Mexico; mixing realistic images with fantasy.

The Frida Kahlo Museum doesn’t contain any original works of art, but it does embrace the life and works of Frida Kahlo; giving visitors a chance to learn about her controversial art through photos, videos, diagrams, and collages.

Everything is very artistic and colorful, right through to the inevitable tourist gift shop, and it’s worth a visit if only for a little while!

21: Eat Some Street Elote Or Esquite

Elote is essentially corn-on-the-cob, roasted on an open grill with a decadent coating of salt, chili powder, butter, lime juice, cotija cheese and mayonnaise.

Esquite is basically the same, only the corn kernels have been removed from the cob, boiled, and are served in a little cup mixed with different ingredients.

The best elote and esquite in Playa del Carmen can be found sold from carts on the main drag of Avenida Benito Juarez — especially in the evenings.

22: Rent A Jet Ski In Playa!

I’m sure I don’t need to do much convincing here – who doesn’t want to whizz around on a jet ski as part of their holiday? Particularly when the location is as stunning as Playa Del Carmen!

Mamitas Beach and Maroma Beach Club are probably the best place to rent a jet ski and “drive it like you stole it”. The flat ocean offers a speedy and exhilarating ride, making jet ski hire worth the approximate $50 an hour rental fee!

23: Take A Sailing Trip

From booze cruises to full-day catamaran sailing tours, the opportunities for getting out on the water are never-ending in Playa Del Carmen.

While the booze cruises are great for spring breakers, I prefer more relaxing trips to coral reefs for snorkeling. For the most romantic option, there’s also sunset sailing catamaran trips.

Another option is to simply rent a smaller sailboat (with a captain) right from the beach (like Mamitas) and cruise around the local reefs and do some snorkeling for an hour or two.

24: Stand Up Paddle Boarding

You still haven’t seen the ocean in its true beauty until you do a sunrise paddle board session. The Aloha Paddle Club offers sunrise sessions for mixed groups.

Paddleboarding is available for all levels and abilities, with instructors present to provide guidance to anyone who may need it. An incredible way to appreciate the sunrise!

25: Volunteer Dog Walking

Voluntarios Perrunos is a local Mexican organization that shelters dogs who have been rescued from abuse and abandonment. On certain days of the week, they gather a group of volunteers to take the dogs on morning walks, to get them out of their cages. The dogs love it, and so do the volunteers!

Getting To Playa Del Carmen

Flying To Cancun

Playa del Carmen has a VERY small airport. So the most economical way is to fly into Cancun and drive down (bus, shuttle, or rental car). Check for Cancun flight deals on Skyscanner and read my guide with tips for finding cheap flights. From the airport, you can book a private shuttle or take the public ADO bus. Buses leave frequently and cost about $10 USD. The trip takes about an hour.

Renting A Car In Mexico

The best site to book your car is with Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

Renting a car offers the best flexibility to explore more remote and less touristy spots on the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s my favorite way to get around!

Playa Del Carmen Airport Shuttle

There are a bunch of airport shuttle services offering rides from Cancun airport to Playa del Carmen, and they’ll be sure to harass you at the airport exit (if you didn’t book in advance). The most popular one is probably Cancun Airport Transportation. 

Traveling By Bus

The cheapest way to get to Playa del Carmen from Cancun airport is the ADO Bus System. A ticket only costs about $10 USD and the trip takes just over an hour.

Rent A Car In Mexico

Search both local and international car rental companies to help you find a good deal.

Check Latest Prices

Where To Stay In Playa

Playa del Carmen has become a popular tourist hub for travelers to base themselves while exploring the Yucatan Peninsula. If you’re wondering where to stay in Playa del Carmen, here are my top recommendations.

BEST HOTELS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

COOL AIRBNB’S IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Useful Playa Del Carmen Tips & Advice

• The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is between October – December. Busy season in the area starts in December and goes on through March. There’s great weather in the winter, but more tourists too.
• What happens if you get stuck with a rainy day in Playa? Well, you can always visit the 3D Museum Of Wonders.
• If you’re looking for fun festivals and events in Playa del Carmen, I recommend checking out the Sacred Mayan Journey around the end of May, Semana Santa Holy Week in late March, and Day Of The Dead on November 1st.

If you’re vacationing in Mexico and want something different than Cancun, you really can’t go wrong by basing yourself in Playa del Carmen to explore the best of what the Yucatan Peninsula has to offer. ★

FAQ: Top Playa Del Carmen Questions

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READ MORE MEXICO TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide on things to do in Playa Del Carmen! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:

• The Best Mayan Ruins In Mexico
• Swimming With Whale Sharks In Holbox
• What To Do On The Yucatan Peninsula
• Top Attractions In Cancun
• Things To Know Before Visiting Chichen Itza

Have any questions about things to do in Playa del Carmen? What about other suggestions? Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to share!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Somewhere In Mexico…

This is the story of how I accidentally wandered into an extremely remote Mexican village that was openly controlled by a ruthless drug cartel — and what happened next.

The other week I was taking an Uber from the airport, chatting with the driver about traveling and working around the world as a digital nomad.

After asking the standard question everyone asks “what’s your favorite country”, he wanted to know if I’ve ever felt in any danger while traveling.

Sure, I’ve been scared before.

• When I crossed the border into Afghanistan by myself on foot.
• Balancing on rusty beams 300 feet over a canyon in Spain.
• Attempting to wade across a crocodile-infested river in Costa Rica.
• Scuba diving without a cage in Fiji face-to-face with bull sharks.
• Spending the night on an erupting volcano in Guatemala.
• Illegally hopping a freight train while hitchhiking across America.

Yes, looking back, I’ve done some stupid & risky stuff over the years…

But the most scared I’ve ever been — was on a journey through Northern Mexico about 7 years ago. And it’s a story I’ve NEVER shared on this blog.

I wrestled with writing about this experience for a long time.

It just didn’t feel appropriate to share publicly, or even very safe for that matter. I was worried about the possible consequences for myself and others.

Yet I think enough time has passed that I finally feel comfortable sharing my crazy (and pretty dumb) encounter with dangerous members of a notorious drug cartel in the lawless mountains deep within Mexico’s Copper Canyon.

Maybe the story will be entertaining, but I hope you’ll learn something too.

Once Upon A Time In Mexico…

My tale begins in the Mexican tourist town of Creel. A major stop for the popular Copper Canyon Train which runs from the cities of Chihuahua through the Sierra Tarahumara mountains to Los Mochis on the coast.

After a very scenic (but uneventful) train journey through the mountains, I planned to explore more of this mountainous area on my own. Hoping to spend time with the Tarahumara, a Mexican indigenous group.

While chatting with locals, I learned of small villages at the bottom of the canyon that would present a more “authentic” Northern Mexican experience. Off-the-beaten-path if you will.

These places were not easy to reach, and the drive would take hours on rough mountain roads. I mentioned my plan to a local guy (let’s call him Fede) who I’d worked with earlier, and he offered to take me in his vehicle.

Fede wasn’t just some random dude. I’d already spent a few days traveling with him. Even crashing overnight at his family’s house. He was a well-known local professional. I trusted him completely.

Surprises Down In The Canyon

I’m not going to name the specific village I traveled to in this story. However, I’m sure if you dig deep enough, you’ll probably be able to figure it out.

Because it’s not like what goes on down there isn’t unknown within Mexico.

Over the course of our 6+ hour drive down winding dirt roads into the depths of the Copper Canyon, Fede starts to share some unsettling information with me.

“When we get there, you may see some stuff that’s alarming. But don’t worry. They know you’re coming.” – Fede

“Wait, what?! What kind of stuff? Who knows I’m coming?” – Me

“The Cartel. They control this town. But when the only guesthouse has a tourist, the owner informs The Cartel. They won’t bother you as long as you don’t do anything stupid.” – Fede

“……….” – Me

The Cartel he was referring to is the Sinaloa Drug Cartel. Aka Cártel de Sinaloa, aka the Guzmán-Loera Organization, aka The Blood Alliance.

The same cartel controlled by the notorious drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, who was just on trial in the United States for drug trafficking, murder, and money laundering.

What the hell did I just get myself into?

Mexico’s Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is the nickname given to a remote and mountainous region in Northern Mexico that encompasses the states of Chihuahua, Sinaloa, and Durango.

It’s where Mexico’s powerful cartels have been growing billions of dollars worth of heroin & weed to supply an insatiable demand for drugs from the United States.

Cartels are able to produce drugs in the Golden Triangle because the area is so rugged & inaccessible that it can take hours to reach these small villages on unmarked dirt roads.

Mexico’s Copper Canyon, if you haven’t heard of it before, is a massive canyon that’s technically larger and deeper than the US Grand Canyon. It is the perfect hiding place for fields of illegally grown opium poppies & marijuana plants!

Combine this fact with a desperately poor workforce of indigenous people called the Tarahumara, and you’ve got a Mexican drug lord’s wet dream.

This is where I found myself.

On the edge of the Golden Triangle, in a village controlled by the Sinaloa Cartel.

A Surreal Travel Experience

As we pull into the village, over a narrow bridge, I see a kid talking into a military-style radio. He’s announcing our arrival to the cartel. My heart begins to race.

Further down the road, we pass a group of men dressed in black, armed with assault rifles. I begin to sweat.

Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea after all…

Fede notices my apprehension and assures me everything will be ok. I’m not the first tourist to visit this town.

Because the cartel doesn’t want to draw any attention to themselves, they’d never harm a tourist. That would force the military to intervene and ruin everything.

I check into my guesthouse, the only one in town, and we eat lunch at his friend’s place, which is basically a small restaurant run out of her home.

Keeping Tabs On Me…

Fede says his goodbyes and leaves town. He has to go back to work. So I’m on my own now. I walk around town. I visit some abandoned silver mines nearby.

I stop into the local museum and sign the guestbook (the last signature is over a month old).

I pass by the group of cartel members I saw earlier. We say hello to each other. While they certainly appear to fit the stereotype of hardened criminals, they seem friendly enough.

I still can’t quite believe this is happening.

My goal for the day is to visit an old Spanish Mission, located a few miles out of town. On the way, I run into a pickup truck with blacked-out windows on the side of the road. As I approach, the driver’s side window rolls down.

“¿A dónde vas?” says a large scary dude in a cowboy hat. There’s a beautiful woman half his age in the passenger seat.

“La misión Española” I reply. He nods, and the window slides back up. They’re keeping an eye on me. Making sure I don’t stumble into their fields of poppy or marijuana.

Everyone Works For The Drug Cartel

Over the next few days, I learn that basically the whole town is working for the cartel. They are the sole employer.

I’m not sure if it’s by choice, or by the threat of violence, but growing and trafficking drugs for the cartel is how this town survives.

And some of them are not afraid to talk about it. Growing marijuana is as normal as growing corn. It’s just another crop — only one that pays much better.

After chatting with one local farmer for a while, he takes me up to a small barn behind his house, pulls out a large sack, and offers me two giant handfuls of freshly picked marijuana buds!

I start laughing, thanking him for his generosity, but explain that there’s no way I can bring his gift back into the United States with me.

But… because I’m a polite guy, I accept a few flowers so he isn’t offended.

This man isn’t some murderous cartel member, he’s just a friendly, impoverished farmer trying to make a living for his family with very limited opportunities.

A Very Surreal Experience

So while the whole cartel situation had me feeling pretty nervous, this next part was the scariest moment of the whole few days I was down there.

My comfort level had been improving. I was getting used to chatting with cartel members each day. Maybe too comfortable.

One evening, a young Mexican guy dressed like a rodeo cowboy walks into the home-based restaurant where I’m eating dinner.

He’s wearing a pair of beautiful, very fancy white-handled revolvers on his hip. Like right out of your typical Spaghetti Western movie.

A heavily armed bodyguard wearing a bullet-proof vest waits for him outside.

We happily chat for a minute in Spanish, asking how I like the food, before they both disappear into the darkness of night. Everything is getting very surreal, and I seriously feel like I’m trapped in a movie.

On another occasion, I watch a team of five armed men loading blue 55-gallon drums of something from a truck into a guarded building.

Weed? Opium poppies? Human remains dissolving in acid? My imagination starts to run wild…

Getting The Shot

I REALLY wanted a photo of one of these guys. No one would believe all this happened to me unless I had a photo!

So the next morning, I cut a small hole into the side of my backpack and tape a GoPro inside. My plan is to use “time-lapse” mode, quietly shooting photos automatically as I walk past them.

However as I approach, I decide to stop and chat. With my adrenaline pumping, I simply ask them directly. Pointing at the camera around my neck. What’s the worst that could happen?

“¿Puedo tomar tu retrato?” (Can I take your portrait?) – Me

“Jajaja… no.” – Cartel Dude #1

“Please? My American friends back home would love to see your big gun. I can leave your face out of it if you’d like.” – Me

“Jajaja… no. But you can get a photo of my amigo here.” – Cartel Dude #1

So, without thinking about the consequences, I aim my wide-angle lens at the truck driver sitting next to him. *CLICK*

Cartel Dude #1 is in the photo too, but just doesn’t realize it.

Immediately I start to panic — internally. What if he asks to see the photo? That was so dumb! I’m going to get myself killed. Maybe I can quickly use the zoom button before showing it to him…

Fortunatley he never asks — and just assumes the camera wasn’t aimed his way.

I try to act normal, end the conversation, and walk off down the road contemplating just how stupid that was.

I think it’s time for me to leave this town.

Cartel Wars In The Mountains

As someone who has spent almost 2 years of my life both living and traveling through Mexico, I’ll be the first to tell you it’s one of my favorite countries.

I certainly don’t want my story to scare you from visiting Mexico. This is NOT a typical Mexican vacation experience.

I specifically went out of my way to visit a remote area that isn’t very safe. Even for the Copper Canyon itself — if you stay on the normal tourist trail you’ll be fine.

However if you venture off-grid in this region, there’s a lot of sh*t going on.

Mexico is an amazing and beautiful destination, but like any country, it can also be a dangerous one if you go looking for danger.

• Golden Triangle In Flames Again (Borderland Beat)
• Extreme Race in the Shadow of Extreme Danger (New York Times)
• Drug Gangs Delay Sierra Trail Riders (My San Antonio)

One particular story that shook me recently was the murder of North Carolina teacher Patrick Braxton-Andrew, who was visiting a similar remote village in the same region last year.

That one hit close to home. A curious traveler looking for adventure, trying to get off the beaten path, exploring a dangerous area on his own… mistaken for a DEA agent and shot by the drug cartels.

When I first started traveling, I did many risky and stupid things seeking that addictive jolt of adrenaline. Hell, I haven’t completely cured myself of it even now!

Luckily everything has turned out ok so far, and I have some pretty incredible memories and stories to show for it.

But that isn’t always the case for everyone.

My Scariest Travel Story

I’m not sure if there is a lesson in this story. Maybe there are many.

Play stupid games, win stupid prizes? Young people traveling with no responsibilities often take unnecessary risks for fun? Don’t be an idiot like me?

I’m sure I’ll be judged and ridiculed a bit for writing about this. That’s ok. It happened, and I have to live with it. I’m probably lucky to be living at all…

Have you ever done anything stupid like this while traveling? Taken on too much risk? Gotten yourself into a sticky situation that you regret later?

Frequent travelers have this insufferable tendency to “one-up” each other’s travel stories — and this one is mine. The one I share at bars after a few drinks.

Now it’s your turn to share.

Take a minute to quickly describe your scariest/dumb travel story.

If only to make me feel like I’m not the only one out there who’s done something stupid on the road…

Maybe we can turn it into a guide on “what-not-to-do while traveling.” ★

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This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is the official party capital of Mexico with great beachfront access to the Caribbean Sea. But there are so many more things to do in Cancun besides the beaches!

Known as the gateway to the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun is often the first travel experience that most Americans have in Mexico. In fact up to 40% of American travelers are picking Mexico for their vacation.

I’ll be the first to tell you that Cancun is not my favorite place in Mexico.

It’s like a Mexican Las Vegas — crowded and full of obnoxious first-time tourists afraid of drinking the water or leaving their all-inclusive resorts…

There’s also the thousands of students who visit Mexico during Spring Break to party hard and get a tan — completely skipping any cultural experiences.

That said, the city does have some awesome nightlife and beautiful beaches. But there are many other fun things to do in Cancun that most people miss…

If you’re planning to spend some time in Cancun, I wanted to recommend some of my favorite fun and unusual things to do, no matter what time of year you visit.

Hi, I’m Matthew Karsten

I’ve been traveling the world for 10+ years as a professional photographer & writer. I hope you enjoy my Cancun itinerary! If you find it useful, clicking on my affiliate links to book something will give me a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

About The Author

Cancun Highlights Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of highlights in Cancun, Mexico. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Cancun Mexico Travel Guide

1: Explore Cancun’s Hotel Zone

Cancun is divided into two areas. Downtown, also known as Ciudad Cancun — and Cancun Island, also known as The Hotel Zone or “Zona Hotelera”.

The Hotel Zone is the primary tourist area, synonymous with resorts, catamarans, wild nightlife and beaches. It’s a 15-mile strip of sand shaped like the number seven. This is where most people stay.

As the name implies, there are tons of hotels as well as most of the nightlife and beaches. Restaurants and bars line the only road, Kulkukan Boulevard, which runs from one side of the Hotel Zone to the other.

Cancun City Tour

See the best of Cancun as your guide shows you around the city’s top sights, ancient ruins, and breathtaking views.

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2: Visit Downtown Cancun

If you get sick of the tourist Disneyland that is the Hotel Zone, Downtown Cancun provides a taste of local culture, with delicious street food, small shops, green parks, and Mexican Wrestling!

Downtown Cancun (aka Ciudad Cancun) is the main residential area for locals too. This is where all the people who work in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula tourist industry actually live.

Wander down to Avenida Tulum to see and experience the “real” Cancun. If you’re a foodie, make sure to stuff your face full of tacos from the vendors there. There’s a nice family friendly park too, called Parque Las Palapas.

Street Food & Urban Art

Explore downtown Cancun with a local guide, looking for all the best urban art while eating street food like a local.

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3: Swimming In Cenotes

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its amazing cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with water formed in limestone caves. The entire Riviera Maya is covered with thousands of cenotes, and many of them you can swim in.

Cenotes are created when the limestone surface collapses, creating an opening into the Yucatan’s large underground river system. Most people visit them to go swimming, scuba diving or snorkeling.

Some of the best cenotes near Cancun are located along the Ruta De Cenotes (Cenote Route) near the city of Puerto Morelos, about a 30-minute drive away.

Here you’ll find Cenote La Noria, Verde Lucero, Cenote Mojarras, and Cenote Selvatica among many others. My favorite was Verde Lucero, which has its own zipline!

If you don’t want to drive yourself, there’s a fun guided cenote tour which leaves from Cancun called the Xenote Experience.

Cenote Adventure Tour

Visit 4 different cenotes on a guided tour from Cancun. Includes kayaking, zip-lining, rappelling, and more!

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4: Snorkeling Near Cancun

Snorkeling turquoise blue Caribbean waters is an ocean activity you can’t miss while visiting Cancun. One amazing underwater attraction is the Underwater Museum — or MUSA.

500 sculptures were created from materials which encourage coral reef development. Huge hands, statues of locals and VW Beetles, the exhibits are surrounded by ocean wildlife giving you a really unique experience.

MUSA continues to expand, as more sculptures are added, while the old ones are being eaten away by marine creatures. You can book a snorkeling tour directly starting at $30 USD.

Underwater Snorkeling Trip

Go snorkeling at some of Cancun’s best spots, including the famous MUSA Underwater Museum!

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5: Temazcal Ceremony

A Temazcal ritual is a traditional Mayan ceremony of purification which takes place in a tiny hut. You strip down to your underwear (or swimsuit), then enter the sweat lodge which is heated with hot rocks & water, turning it into a steamy sauna.

The ceremony is led by a local shaman, who conducts the ritual and takes care of participants. The temazcal ceremony takes place in complete darkness, as the shaman pours water over the hot rocks, chanting and using different herbs to summon spirits.

Temazcal was performed since ancient times, is seen as a purification ceremony that cleans the body, mind, and soul. As your body is sweating in the tiny hut, you enter a deep state of meditation, enhanced by the shamanic chanting.

Join A Temazcal Ceremony

Experience a traditional Mayan healing and purification ceremony promoting physical well-being and healing.

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6: Visit Cancun’s Best Beaches

The 13 miles of Cancun’s coast is lined with Instagram-worthy beaches featuring soft, white sand, teal-blue waters and a cool breeze.

The Hotel Zone has many beaches where you can relax and sip your margarita, but some of them really stand out, thanks to their beauty and atmosphere.

• Playa Delfines is one of the largest beaches in Cancun. It is also known for the iconic Cancun sign and for being void of hotels or resorts, which makes it a local’s favorite. The currents are quite strong, so swimming is not advised.
• Playa Tortugas is best for families with kids, because it has small waves that allow swimming. The only drawback is the fact it can get crowded. You can enjoy a drink or seafood at the oceanfront restaurant.
• Chac Mool Beach is the perfect place to dive into the Caribbean waters. There are plenty of operators who rent water sports equipment, which makes this beautiful beach heaven for all water sports lovers.
• Playa Forum is the perfect mix between a vibrant atmosphere and a tropical retreat. It is located behind the most popular nightclub of Cancun, the Coco Bongo, this beach is filled with restaurants and bars.

Rent A Car In Mexico

Search both local and international car rental companies to help you find a good deal.

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7: Zip Lining In The Jungle

Zip lining is one of the hallmark adventures to do in Cancun, so you can’t miss it, even if you think you’re afraid of heights. In fact, it’s even better if you are!

There are a couple of different theme parks near Cancun with zip lines. The closest theme park where you can enjoy zip lining is Selvatica. They offer multiple packages with 10 different zip lines.

Xplor Adventure Park also has two zip line circuits, each with 7 different routes, with the highest point at 45 m (147 ft). All these adventure parks usually have other activities too, like ATVs and cenotes.

8: Chichen Itza Maya Ruins

The Maya city of Chichen Itza is a UNESCO world heritage site, famous for its amazing ancient pyramids. The oldest building in Chichen Itza dates from the 5th century.

The most impressive structure of the city is the 98-foot tall pyramid Temple Of Kukulkan (aka “El Castillo”). The nine terraces around it symbolize the belief in heaven with nine levels.

Chichen Itza is well preserved so you can get a glimpse of how the ancient Maya people lived. It’s located about 2.5 hours away from Cancun by car, or 3 hours by bus, and is the Yucatan’s most popular Mayan site.

Chichen Itza Tour

Skip the line at Mexico’s most famous archaeological site, visit a colonial town, and swim in a cenote.

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9: Cancun Scenic Tower

The Cancun Scenic Tower (aka Torre Escenica) offers amazing views of the Caribbean coast, and Cancun itself. It’s open every day from 9am – 9pm.

Hear about the history of Cancun as the tower slowly spins 360° for a spectacular birds-eye view of the entire Hotel Zone from the 100 m (300 ft) tall tower.

The ride up takes about 5 minutes, and you can spend another 15 minutes taking photos as the deck spins around giving you views in all directions.

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10: Shopping At Mercado 28

Mercado 28 (Market 28) is a huge shopping center in downtown Cancun. This isn’t your typical mall, instead it’s a giant flea-market that boasts 600 vendors who sell pretty much everything.

From textiles to maracas and leather items, you can find some cool Mexican souvenirs at Mercado 28. Many items are handcrafted and unique, so they make great travel gifts.

Feel free to test your bargaining skills here. Resist the seller’s first price and you can walk away with a great deal. Stop by one of the local restaurants for food at a fraction of Hotel Zone prices too!

Mercado 28 is easy to reach by bus from the Hotel Zone, but if you have a rental car, remember which lot you park in, as there are 4 different entrances and parking lots that look very similar.

Cooking Class & Market Tour

Pick up some fresh ingredients at a local market, then head to a private kitchen for your Mexican cooking class.

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11: Best Cancun Nightlife & Nightclubs

Ok, I can’t talk about Cancun without mentioning the nightlife. The city is known for its crazy nightlife, especially during Spring Break, when students travel to Mexico for a little fun.

After a day at the beach, when sun goes down you can unleash your energy and dance the night away. The best nightclubs in Cancun usually have long waiting lines, but it’s worth the wait.

• Coco Bongo is the most popular club in Cancun. They have acrobats, cover bands and DJs who spice up the night. It’s kind of a mix between nightclub and Vegas show!
• The City Nightclub features celebrity DJs like Tiesto, Fergie and Paul Van Dyk who perform on a regular basis. With three floors and nine bars, the club can hold up to 5000 people each night.
• Mandala Beach Club is the place to go for a bikini party. This outdoor house music club opens daily at 9:30 PM, offering great music and delicious tropical cocktails.
• Dady O is the place to go if you are looking for techno and house music, professional dancers, light shows and body painting. The club has five bars and two floors where you can party until sunrise.

12: Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Stand up paddle boarding is the latest trend in Cancun, but it is also a pretty easy and friendly sport that everyone can enjoy. You can rent your own paddle board from the beach, or join a group trip to explore a certain area.

If you are up for a challenge, join a long paddleboard tour that travels from Cancun all the way to Isla Mujeres! Other options are to paddle Nichupte Lagoon mangrove jungle or go on a sunrise wildlife tour.

Mangrove Lagoon SUP

Join a paddleboard tour across the beautiful Nichtupe lagoon canals while looking for local wildlife.

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13: Xoximilco

Looking to enjoy a traditional Mexico fiesta? Give Xoximilco a try! This is a Mexican party held on boats which travel on the canals near Cancun.

It’s a theme park designed after the original Xochimilco in Mexico City, where families and friends rent out boats called trajinera and float down the water listening to live musicians.

There is music, tequila, and delicious food, which makes Xoximilco a great way to taste local culture. During Xoximilco there is live music and people dance a lot. There are also many social games which keep the party going.

The music and food come from different Mexico areas, which makes the party a colorful display of local culture.

14: Sunset Sailing Trip

Mexico’s Riviera Maya and Isla Mujeres offer some of the most beautiful sunsets in the Caribbean and the best way to enjoy them is on a romantic sunset sailing trip off the coast.

Board a sailing catamaran and watch the colorful sunset as the breeze plays with your hair. Most sunset sailing trips out of Cancun also offer an open bar and snacks, so you can sit back and relax. 

These journeys generally last about 2 hours, and companies offer a bad-weather refund if it gets too stormy or rough.

15: Scuba Diving Adventures

Cancun is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and it’s the perfect place to learn scuba diving. There are many underwater attractions in the area.

Cancun is located close to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest reef in the world. Home to dolphins, many kinds of tropical fish, eels, lobsters, nurse sharks, and majestic eagle rays.

Isla Mujeres, the underwater MUSA museum, and nearby cenotes are favorite spots. There are several locations where newbies can learn scuba diving and get their PADI license.

Beginners Scuba Diving Trip

Enjoy a beginners scuba diving trip. Get some quick pool lessons in Cancun before heading out to a beautiful ocean reef.

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16: Isla Mujeres Day Trip

Isla Mujeres, which translates to “The Island of Women”, gets its name from the temple of Ixchel, the Maya goddess of fertility. This small island is only 20 minutes from Cancun by ferry from Hotel Zone.

Isla Mujeres offers stunning views thanks to its rocky coast and gorgeous bays. It is also the first spot where you can see the sunrise in Mexico. This sleepy fishing village offers a well-deserved pause from the crazy nightlife of Cancun.

Watch sea turtles hatching at the local turtle farm and conservation center. You can drive around the island in a rented golf-cart, visit Ixchel temple, check out Garrafon Reef Park, go kayaking, snorkeling, or visit the 19th-century ruins of Hacienda Mundaca.

Catamaran Sailing Trip

Spend the day sailing from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, snorkeling in turquoise waters and relaxing on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

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17: Visit Las Coloradas

Las Coloradas, or “the red ones” are pink lakes in a small fishing village with the same name. The lakes are part of a natural reserve which covers 150,000 acres and is home to a wide diversity of animals.

The amazing pink water is part of a salt processing facility, which is one of the main industries in the area, apart from fishing. The bright pink color of the lakes comes from red plankton and shrimp.

Las Coloradas is a three-hour drive from Cancun by rental car. Travelers who decide to spend the night in the area can look for accommodation in Rio Lagartos, located 30 minutes away. Flamingo tours can be booked from Rio Lagartos too.

Visit The Pink Lake

Cruise Rio Lagartos looking for crocodiles, visit the pink salt lakes, and marvel at Mexico’s flamingo population.

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18: Selfie With The Cancun Sign

One of the most touristy things you can do in Cancun is to get a picture with the colorful Cancun sign. Located on Playa Delfines, which is easily accessible by bus, the sign is one of the local landmarks.

Once on Delfines, you can enjoy the local white sand beach, which remains one of the least developed beaches in the area.

Just pay attention to the tides and warnings, as Delfines is known for strong currents, so you might want to skip swimming and stick with sunbathing. The view is spectacular and it’s my favorite beach in Cancun.

19: Drinking At Señor Frogs

Señor Frogs is the stereotypical place to go drinking in Cancun. Here you will find a lively atmosphere, where everyone is singing and dancing, plus you can eat there too.

There’s sawdust on the floor and the walls are covered with funny signs.  They serve drinks in massive “yard” glasses, and a Conga line could break out at any moment.

You can also bring kids if they are above 8 years old – but it’s not appropriate for smaller children, as there is a lot of noise and people who party hard.

20: ATVing At Xplor Park

One of the popular things to do in Cancun is riding All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) through a dirt road jungle route. There are many companies which offer ATV tours of the jungle, one of them being Xplor Park.

The ATV ride is included in the all-inclusive park entry fee of $120. You can spend a whole day there going cave swimming, rafting and zip lining, plus there is a lunch buffet and unlimited drinks.

Xplore is just one of Mexico’s many popular “adventure theme parks” located South of Cancun. Some of the others include Xcaret, Xel Ha, and Rio Secreto. 

21: Swimming With Whale Sharks

The Whale Shark is on the endangered species list, so having the opportunity to swim with these magnificent creatures is going to leave a strong impression.

The Yucatan peninsula is one of the places where you can swim with these large harmless creatures – an adult can reach 12 m long and can weight up to 20 tons, making them the largest known fish.

Baby whale sharks are very playful and known to play with swimmers. The best time to swim with the sharks is between June and September. Tours leave from Cancun, Isla Mujeres, or Isla Holbox.

Mexican Whale Shark Trip

Snorkel with whale sharks in the Mexican Riviera from Cancun. Jump in and see these gentle giants in their own environment.

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22: Catch A Lucha Libre Show

Lucha Libre is a unique Mexican cultural experience in Cancun. There are two fighters, the good and the bad, who use a mix of wrestling, acrobatics and theatrical maneuvers in an attempt to win.

Fighters wear masks and are sometimes accompanied by little-people and drag-queens. Each fight lasts about three rounds and usually ends with someone thrown outside the ring.

Lucha Libre events are held downtown at Arena Cancun every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday night. A front row seat costs about $12 USD with beer and snacks available for sale. It’s quite a show!

23: Visit The Sea Turtles

Beaches near Cancun are some of the best places in the world to find sea turtles. Between May and October you can see the turtles lay their eggs on the beach. The little ones hatch and flop into the ocean from July – December.

The best place to visit sea turtles is Tortugranja, the turtle farm and conservation center on Isla Mujeres. Green turtles, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles are the most common species you can see around Cancun and Isla Mujeres.

At Tortugranja you can see turtles all year round, in every development stage, for a $3 fee. You can feed them and interact with them under the care of a guide as well as crabs, urchins, and conchs.

Sea Turtle Snorkeling Trip

Snorkel with sea turtles off the coast of Mexico. Jump in and see these creatures in their natural environment.

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24: Maya Museum & San Miguelito Ruins

Museo Maya Cancun and San Miguelito Ruins cover 80 hectares in Hotel Zone. The new museum opened in 2012 with all kinds of cool Mayan archeological relics.

You will be able to walk among ruins, see ancient skeletons, jade relics, and artifacts from Chichen Itza and other Mayan sites around the Yucatan peninsula.

There are three galleries where you can discover multiple elements from Mayan history and culture. The ticket costs about $5 and grants you entry to San Miguelito ruins, which is a spread of temples, pyramids and family homes of Mayans, set in the jungle.

25: Bird Watching At Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy is a bird watcher’s paradise. The small protected National Park sanctuary North of Isla Mujeres is home to more than 100 species of birds and 4 species of sea turtles.

The tropical breeze and bird spotting complete this amazing tropical heaven. Once here you can relax and just take some pictures of the wildlife, before picking up your snorkeling gear and dive into the clear waters.

Isla Contoy can be reached via an all-inclusive cruise at the cost of about $100 per person. To keep the inhabited island in pristine condition, tourists have to follow very strict rules and pick up after themselves.

Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres Trip

Spend the day sailing to the best islands off Cancun, snorkeling in turquoise waters and looking for for nesting birds.

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26: Kayaking Nichupte Lagoon

Nichupte Lagoon is an enormous body of water made up of 5 different lagoons called Nichupte’, Río Inglés, Rio del Amor, Caleta Nizuc y Bojórquez. You can go kayaking and paddle boarding here.

It’s the only natural ecosystem that remains after the construction of Cancun’s huge Hotel Zone. The waters are surrounded by jungle paradise, heaven for bird watchers and biologists.

The fresh water coming from the rocks underneath mixes with the salt water from the sea offering a comfortable, prosperous and protective environment for many species of fish to reproduce.

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Explore the freshwater canals and mangroves of Cancun, learning about local plant & animal biodiversity from a kayak.

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27: Day Trip To Tulum

If you’re visiting Cancun, you probably shouldn’t leave without stopping by the beach town of Tulum and Ruins of Tulum, one the largest cities built by the Mayans.

This former port city is home to some of the best beaches in Mexico, as well as beach clubs and yoga retreats. But the highlight is the ancient walled city perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Caribbean ocean.

Tulum was a major trading and religious center between the 11th and 16th centuries, and is one of the coolest Mayan archaeological sites in Mexico. Make sure to bring your swimsuit and visit the hidden beach!

Classic Tulum Bike Tour

Visit the Tulum Archaeological site via bicycle, then cruise around town, try some fresh tacos, and hop into a refreshing cenote.

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28: Enjoy A Fancy Cancun Restaurant!

Want to splurge a bit? Cancun is full of amazing local restaurants. Some of my favorites include Casitas Cancun, Lorenzillo’s, Porfirios, and La Fonda Del Zancudo.

However if you only have time for one, I recommend checking out Rosa Negra — located right on the water off Kukulcan Blvd in the heart of the Cancun Hotel Zone. They serve authentic Latin American flavours from Peru, Argentina, Colombia, Brazil and Mexico. In a wonderful atmosphere with entertainment (singers, dancers, etc.)

29: Tour Cancun’s Best Taco Joints

No trip to Mexico is complete without a thorough vetting of Cancun’s tastiest taco stands. You’ll find all the best tacos away from the Hotel Zone in Downtown Cancun, on Avenidas Tulum and the Parque Las Palapas area.

Make sure to order some Tacos al Pastor, the classic Mexican-shawarma style pork meat taco featuring a pineapple slice on top. The pork is marinated in a combination of dried chilies, spices, and pineapple. My favorite!

This type of meat was actually created by Lebanese immigrants, but it’s since become the Mexican standard. You can also try tacos with beef, chicken, shrimp, and if you’re brave, even cow brains or udder. You can also join a local Mexican Taco Tour if you’d prefer someone else led the way!

Find The Best Tacos

Eat your way through Cancun on an authentic Mexican Taco Tour! Learn about the city’s history and local ingredients.

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30: El Meco Ruins

El Meco is a set of ancient Maya ruins that aren’t well known about, located North of Downtown Cancun. There’s even a 41 foot high pyramid!

These ruins were probably related to Isla Mujeres and an important port for the Maya in the Yucatan Peninsula.

To find them, head up Avenida Lopez Portillo (aka the Cancun-Puerto Juarez road) in a rental car, taxi, or collectivo bus. The site is located at KM 27. The ruins are just off the road on the left. 

Best Time To Visit Cancun

High season for Cancun is during the winter from January to March, when all the snowbirds from Canada and the United States come down to escape the cold.

This is when you’ll find the best weather and the least amount of rain. But it’s also the most expensive and most crowded season. March is typically when Spring Break madness happens.

The best time to visit Cancun for families with kids is from April to November. If you are looking to travel on a budget, visit Cancun during the rainy season, from July to October.

Where To Stay In Cancun

Cancun has tens of thousands of rooms available for tourists, everything from budget backpacker hostels to 5-star luxury hotels. Below you’ll find suggestions for good places to stay in Cancun depending on your budget.

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Getting To Cancun

Most people get to Cancun after flying into Cancun International Airport. Search for the cheapest flights to Cancun on Skyscanner.com. From the airport, you can book a private shuttle or take the public ADO bus. Buses leave every 30 minutes and cost about 72 pesos ($4 USD).

Rental Car

The best site to book your car is with Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

Renting a car offers the best flexibility to explore more remote and less touristy spots on the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s my favorite way to get around!

Cancun Airport Shuttle

There are a bunch of airport shuttle services offering rides from the airport to Cancun, and they’ll be sure to harass you at the airport exit. The most popular one is probably Cancun Airport Transportation. 

Public Bus

There are regular ADO buses that will take you all around the Yucatan Peninsula from the ADO Cancun Bus Station. Buses are comfortable and safe.

Collectivo

The cheapest way to get around Cancun is to take a collectivo (group taxi). These are what the locals use to get around the city, but routes can be confusing if you don’t speak Spanish.

Cancun Taxis

Taking a taxi is what most tourists do, but beware that the Yucatan has a “taxi mafia” that charges high prices whenever they think they can get away with it. Always settle on the price before getting in.

Cancun Travel Tips & Advice

• How safe is Cancun? Well, I’m sure you know Mexico has some drug cartel problems. The gangs are active in Cancun, but tourists usually aren’t targeted. Avoid buying drugs and you won’t have any issues.
• Stay up to date on all the most common travel scams and follow practical travel safety tips to avoid petty crime.
• Mexico is cheap, but Cancun is relatively expensive. Save money by eating out at local taco stands, getting out of your resort, and renting a car to explore on your own.
• Don’t worry about the water in Cancun, that’s an old myth. Drinking water is treated locally and then often treated again at hotels or restaurants.
• For some culture, May 5th is the Cinco de Mayo festival, celebrating Mexico’s 1862 Battle of Puebla victory. Visit in October for the Cancun Jazz Festival.

FAQ: Top Cancun Questions

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This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Chichen Itza, Mexico

The history of Chichén Itzá is not for the faint of heart. These ancient Mayan temple ruins in Mexico are shrouded in mystery and brimming with gruesome stories.

Once you finally get past an army of local vendors at the entrance, the ancient stone carvings of fearsome creatures and bloodthirsty warriors at Chichen Itza inspire awe.

This pre-Hispanic city (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) has a fascinating 1,000-year-old history. It is the second most visited archaeological site in Mexico, partly due to its close proximity to Cancun.

Located in the Yucatan Penninsula, the ruins are extensive and cover 740 acres. Many sections have still never been excavated.

While wandering around this massive archaeological site in Mexico, I kept wondering what hidden treasures lay undiscovered beneath my feet.

In this travel guide, you’ll learn tips for visiting Chichen Itza, along with some interesting history about the most popular Mayan ruins in Mexico.

Mexico Travel Restrictions 2022

Mexico has removed all COVID-19 entry requirements. Tests, vaccination details, and health forms are no longer required as of January 2022. However Americans still have to get tested in Mexico before flying back to the United States.

Most hotels, attractions, and private tours are open with new health & safety protocols in place, and you might have to follow certain guidelines (like wearing masks) depending on your destination.

You can find the latest updates on traveling to Mexico here.

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Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins Guide

The History Of Chichen Itza

One thing that makes the Chichen Itza so intriguing, other than the giant stone pyramid, is the mysterious decline of the Maya people themselves.

By the time of the Spanish conquest of the Maya, this great city and others like it were virtually ghost towns.

Historians have several theories as to why. Overpopulation may have depleted environmental resources. A great drought or another catastrophe may have wiped out the civilization.

Competing city-states were constantly at war too — the Maya may have simply done themselves in.

In any case, Mexico’s most famous ruins are astonishingly well-restored site compared to other Mayan ruins in the region. Which is why it’s considered one of the New 7 Wonders Of The World.

Chichen Itza Tour

Skip the line at Mexico’s most famous archaeological site, visit a colonial town, and swim in a cenote.

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Opening Hours & Entry Fees

The ruins of Chichen Itza are open daily from 8am to 4:30pm. However remember that the drive to the ruins takes about 45 minutes from Valladolid, or 2.5 hours from Cancun. If you pay the entrance fees in cash, only pesos are accepted, but you’ll save 10% because credit cards cost extra.

Chichen Itza Entrance Fee: 242 MXN ($11 USD)

Chichen Itza Parking Fee: 30 MXN ($1.50 USD)

Chichen Itza Highlights

El Castillo Pyramid

Once you enter Chichen Itza, you can’t miss the 98-foot tall pyramid Temple Of Kukulkan (aka “El Castillo”) which dominates the northern part of the city. Not as large as the pyramids of Giza, but impressive nonetheless!

Kukulkan is a feathered snake deity in the Mayan religion. The pyramid is guarded by enormous carved serpent heads at the base of the stairs.

The Mesoamerican fascination with stars and planets mean the pyramid’s four stairways represent the four points of a compass. There are 365 steps too, one for each day in the solar calendar.

Nine terraces probably symbolize the Maya belief in a nine-level heaven too.

If you REALLY want a treat, visit El Castillo in March or September during the annual equinoxes. At sunset, a play of light and shadow creates the eerie effect of a snake gradually slithering down the staircase…

Scientists recently discovered this pyramid actually has two more pyramids inside it.

Clapping At The Pyramid

One cool trick to try in front of the temple is to clap as loud as you can. The sound echoes up the side of the structure, mimicking the sound of the local Quetzal bird, a spiritually important animal to the ancient Mayans.

This feature was engineered into the pyramid on purpose, which is pretty crazy to think about!

Temple Of The Warriors

The Temple Of The Warriors is another impressive structure at Chichen Itza. Some of the 200 columns on the south side depict warriors in bas-relief.

The columns once supported a roof system that is long gone.

Also known as the Hall of the Thousand Columns, this grand space might have been a meeting place or an indoor market.

A Chac Mool tops the broad staircase, distinctive statues found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. Reclining figures holding bowls with their heads turned at a 90-degree angle and propped on their elbows.

They might represent temple guardians or slain warriors bearing gifts to Chac, the god of rain.

In Maya religious ceremonies, stone dishes probably held offerings such as incense, tobacco, tamales or tortillas. In Aztec rituals, they more likely held human hearts.

The Maya Ball Court

Off to the left of the main pyramid, you’ll find the famed Maya ball court. While many sites include ball courts, the one at Chichen Itza is the largest in the world.

Maya athletes played a game where the object was to put a rubber ball (representing the sun) into a small stone circle perched very high on a wall, without using your hands OR feet.

Some carvings suggest that the winning team’s captain was decapitated, which was a sign of honor. The ball game is over 3,500 years old, making it the first organized game in the history of sports.

Some of the games were played to resolve arguments between rival cities or as an alternative to all-out war.

Cenote De Los Sacrificios

Chichen Itza means “mouth of the well of Itza” in the local Maya language. One possible translation of Itza is “enchanted water.” The Yucatan is covered in cenotes — distinctive limestone sinkholes that form natural pools.

Cenotes have deep spiritual significance for the Maya. Many scholars believe Chichen Itza was built solely because of the large cenote located here, which provided people with fresh water.

Cenote de los Sacrificios (also known as the Sacred Cenote) measures about 200 feet across with sheer cliffs that drop to the water’s surface. During severe droughts, worshippers tried to appease their rain god Chac by sacrificing special items or people (!) they weren’t very fond of.

Dredging this cenote uncovered thousands of artifacts made of gold, jade and copper. Numerous human skeletons with sacrificial wounds littered the depths as well…

More Cool Archeological Structures

Tzompantli means “wall of skulls,” and this next attraction lives up to its name. The large platform supported stakes on which decapitated human heads were impaled on top of each other.

The unfortunate victims were enemies defeated in battle or prisoners of war sacrificed to the gods. Whimsical skull carvings around the base are a nice touch.

This exhibit would have scared the living daylights out of would-be enemies.

A more elaborate platform nearby is known as House of the Eagles. Its motif is similarly creepy. Eagles and jaguars, symbolizing Toltec sacrificial warriors depicted clutching human hearts.

One of the most interesting structures is El Caracol, which functioned as an observatory. There are many more fascinating stops at Chichen Itza, so plan to spend at least 3 – 4 hours to see it all.

Cenotes Near Chichen Itza

While you can’t swim in the cenote at Chichen Itza itself (unless you want to join the skeletons at the bottom!) there are others nearby where you can.

The closest cenote, and most popular with tour buses, is called Ik Kil. While it’s a pretty one, it’s always packed with people and feels like a tourist trap. I’d probably skip it.

If you want a more authentic cenote experience, I’d recommend cooling off in the cenotes near the town of Valladolid. These include Cenote Zaci, Cenote Dzitnup, or Cenote Suytun.

Getting To Chichen Itza

Rental Car

The best site to book your car is Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car in Mexico.

CANCUN – Chichen Itza is 197 km (2.5 hours) from Cancun by car.
PLAYA DEL CARMEN – The ruins are 181 km (2 hours) from Playa del Carmen.
MERIDA – Chichen Itza is 119 km (1.5 hours) from Merida by car.
VALLADOLID – Chichen Itza is 45 km (45 minutes) from Valladolid by car.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous route from Cancun, the “libre” road runs parallel to the main toll highway and goes through a bunch of smaller villages for a more authentic feel of Mexico.

By Bus

Mexican ADO Bus Service from Cancun to Chichen Itza costs about $202 MXN ($9) one way and takes 3 hours. From Valladolid, there’s bus service every 30 minutes for about $26 MXN.

Collectivo Taxi

Colectivos (shared taxis) leave the town of Valladolid from a lot just east of the bus station and cost about $35 MXN ($2 USD).

Rent A Car In Mexico

Search both local and international car rental companies to help you find a good deal.

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Chichen Itza Tours

If you’re the type of person who prefers joining a tour, there are guided tours of the Chichen Itza Ruins, some of which begin from Cancun and include transportation.

• Skip the line at Chichen Itza, visit a colonial town and swim in a cenote: ➜ BOOK IT HERE
• Visit Chichen Itza, plus the ruins of Coba, and stop at a cenote: ➜ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza Conservation Programs

A group of scientists from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) has been researching the existence of a second structure located inside the Kukulkan pyramid. They found the pyramid-within-a-pyramid using three-dimensional electrical tomography.

It’s believed the current structure was built on top of the other one. Both sit on top of an underground cenote cave filled with water. Archaeologists continue studying the site, and you may be able to see some of their excavations as we did behind the main pyramid.

Tips For Visiting Chichen Itza

• You can rent a luggage locker at Chichen Itza for $40 MXN to hold large bags or valuables.
• Chichen Itza has a “light & sound show” that starts at 7pm in the fall and winter or 8pm in the spring and summer. It’s included in the price of admission.
• Try to visit first thing in the morning when they open, or late in the afternoon to avoid the huge tour-bus crowds.
• Consider splurging on a guided tour. There are information plaques at each attraction, but nothing like the insight you’ll get from a local guide.
• Tourists can no longer climb to the top of the Kukulkan Pyramid due to UNESCO status and a few deaths over the years from falling.
• The sun is unrelenting. Wear a hat, apply sunscreen and take plenty of water. If possible, arrive as soon as the gates open in the morning.
• The mediocre food on-site is expensive. You can get much better stuff down the street at the village of Pisté for a lot less.
• Avoid the vendors selling souvenirs at the entrance. Yes, tourists support their livelihood, but many of them sneak in without authorization, and it’s become a bit of a circus.

Chichen Itza Map

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.