Introduction
Get ready for an adventure in the heart of Mexico's Caribbean coast! This travel guide will take you on a journey to discover the Top 10 Best Things to Do in the Riviera Maya and Cancun. From swimming with sea turtles in the turquoise waters of Akumal beach to exploring the fascinating Mayan ruins in Tulum, the Riviera Maya has it all.
For thrill-seekers, the region is home to incredible theme parks like Xcaret, where you can immerse yourself in Mexican culture and history. And for those who just want to relax, the clear blue waters of the Riviera Maya are the perfect place to soak up the sun and soak in stunning views.
So, pack your sunscreen and get ready to experience the magic of the Riviera Maya and Cancun! With so much to see and do, you're sure to create unforgettable memories in this beautiful part of Mexico.
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Content
This video is closed-captioned in English and Spanish subtitles, 10, THINGS, TO, DO, IN, RIVIERA, MAYA, MEXICO, Hello everyone, and welcome back.
Today.
We going to explore the Riviera Maya a place known for its tranquil beach, villages, boho-chic, boutique, hotels, delectable, local cuisine, ancient ruins, and cenotes.
Now.
There are so many things to do here that first-time visitors are often confused about the things that will be the most memorable.
So today.
We are going to talk about the top ten things that you can do in the Riviera Maya.
So.
Let us begin.
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#1.
Discover Grupo Xcaret Parks The Mayan Riviera is distinguished from other sections of Mexico by its tropical jungle, beauty and ancient Mayan heritage.
As, a result, travelers to the Mayan Riviera can enjoy a holiday that incorporates adventure, history, and culture.
Grupo Xcaret is a Mexican-owned and operated enterprise with nine adventure and cultural theme parks spread around the Mayan Riviera.
The original, Xcaret, focuses on Mayan culture as well as the region's history and ideas.
Visit, the Butterfly Pavilion or the Coral Reef Aquarium, sample regional Mayan dishes, and don't miss the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular show, which blends Mayan traditional dance and music against a spectacular backdrop.
Other types of parks have everything from extreme adventure to optical illusions and traditional Mexican fiestas.
#2.
Ruins of Coba Another collection of spectacular remains, further inland from Tulum's ruins, played an essential part in the Mayan kingdom.
The ruins of Coba tell the story of an ancient Mayan city that boasted the world's largest network of stone, causeways.
These, roads branch out from the main site, linking other Mayan cities in the vicinity.
The Ixmoja temple, one of the tallest pyramids in the Yucatan Peninsula, and one of the few temple complexes currently open to visitors, is the largest building at Coba.
In comparison to the ruins at other sites like Chichen, Itza or Tulum.
Coba is still a comparatively new find.
When compared to more well-known ruins.
This means visitors will encounter significantly fewer crowds.
Climbing to the top of the pyramid is a must for a 360-degree view of lush, green vegetation.
That appears to stretch indefinitely in every direction.
#3.
Visit Playa del Carmen Playa del Carmen is, without a doubt the beating heart of this region of Mexico; therefore.
It should be at the top of your list of things to do in the Mayan Riviera.
La, Quinta, Avenida, or Fifth.
Avenue, is the main thoroughfare of Playa del Carmen (or "Playa," as the locals call it).
This, 24-hour strip, flanked on both ends by restaurants and retailers, is always ready to go.
Apart from the activities and distractions of La Quinta Avenida, Playa boasts some of the most coveted resorts on the Riviera Maya, as well as some of the best rooftop panoramas, particularly for those who enjoy rooftop pools and sunsets.
Suppose.
You want to relax while listening to a DJ performance with a view, head to Thompson Playa del Carmen or The Fives Downtown's rooftops.
Playa is also known for its street cuisine, especially tacos and international cuisines.
Don't forget about the Playa del Carmen beach clubs, which often offer pool parties with live.
Djs, sun, loungers, waiter, service, and showers.
Two of the greatest to know are Mamitas Beach Club and Lido Beach Club.
#4.
Go to Tulum Visiting Tulum is one of the top things to do on the Mayan Riviera, and it is one of the activities that has helped to put this place on the map.
The destination's ancient Mayan coastal metropolis has become iconic.
If.
You miss it, you'll, be missing out on one of Mexico's, most iconic experiences.
Tulum town is a destination in and of itself, with magnificent boutique hotels, world-class restaurants, and a laid-back luxury ambiance.
However.
The settlement was named for the ruins that have existed here for centuries.
Its appearance is instantly recognizable.
Thanks to the magnificent El Castillo stone tower built on a steep ledge, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
Tulum was a fortified port city.
That was critical to the Mayan empire's development.- Today.
It is one of Mexico's, most popular archaeological sites, attracting thousands of visitors each year who come to admire the city, take classic images of El, Castillo, and swim in the crystal blue water at the cliff's base.
After that, make a point of stopping in Tulum town to sample one of the many fantastic eateries that have sprung up along the coast.
#5.
Cenotes Many mysteries lurk in the tropical jungles of the Mayan Riviera, but many of them are right beneath your feet.
The entire Yucatan Peninsula is based on permeable, limestone bedrock, believe it or not.
A network of underground rivers has built a network of caverns and tunnels beneath the ground.
Over the millenniums.
The ground has collapsed in certain spots.
Exposing freshwater rivers and caves beneath your feet., Cenotes, or natural sinkholes, are found across the Yucatan Peninsula and the Mayan Riviera, and there are thousands of them.
Mayans believe that cenotes are the entryway to the underworld;.
Hence they are an essential component of Mayan culture.
Whatever, you think, you may still swim in and explore these stunning natural wonders.
Today, Mexico has hundreds of them free to the public.
Dive into the crystal-clear freshwater, which is accessible to the sky via a huge hole through which light beams highlight the turquoise pool and luscious hanging.
Vines.
Swimming in a cenote is one of the most popular things to do on the Mayan Riviera.
If you're seeking the ultimate natural adventure., #6., Explore, Rio, Secreto One of the Mayan Riviera's best-kept secrets is hidden beneath the surface, displaying a gigantic subterranean cave system that stretches back millennials.
This is an activity you won't want to miss if you're interested in cave, exploration., Rio Secreto is a limestone cave system near Playa del Carmen that contains 23 miles of caves, only a portion of which is open to the public for tourism.
Travelers may spelunk down ancient corridors, swim in waist-deep, underground rivers, and marvel at the thousands upon thousands of prehistoric, stalactites and stalagmites that encircle Rio Secreto on a tour of the cave.
Geological history.
Aside, this place has been a part of Mayan rituals for generations.
Cave paintings and religious altars have been discovered by archaeologists all over the cave system.
#7.
Beaches, After all, the Riviera Maya, is known for its beaches.
So how can you miss out on many wonderful activities? Here.
The beaches here are some of Mexico's greatest, from the powdery shores of Playa del Carmen to the bleached-white, picture-perfect coast of Akumal.
If you're searching for a party, Tulum's beaches will never let you down, thanks to the continual pulse of a low-key DJ, sound that seems to permeate the air wherever you go., With world-class restaurants and barefoot luxury lounges, you're bound to run into a celebrity or two.
Smaller beach communities have similarly beautiful beaches at a far lower cost.
If you enjoy snorkeling with turtles, Akumal is a fantastic seaside town to visit.
If.
You want to splurge, book a room at El, Dorado, Maroma or Secrets Maroma, both of which are located on Playa Maroma, which is consistently ranked as one of the top beaches in the world.
It's worth noting that all beaches in Mexico are open to the public.
So if you can get to the beach on your own, you're free to enjoy it.
#8.
Sail to Cozumel Take, a trip to the ferry station in Playa del Carmen and treat yourself to a 30-minute cruise over the Caribbean Sea to Cozumel.
Cozumel is one of Mexico's largest and most well-known islands.
Thanks to its status as one of the country's busiest cruise ports.
Cozumel is a stunning island.
The national government protects the majority of the island; therefore.
Much of it remains undeveloped and surrounded by wildlife.
Visitors prefer to rent electric bikes or scooters to zip from one beautiful beach to the next along the island's coastline.
Route.
The western end of Cozumel has tranquil beaches with warm, softly lapping waves that are ideal for snorkeling, while the eastern end is rough, raw, and wild.
Cozumel is one of the best diving destinations on the planet since it stands on top of the Mesoamerican Reef, which is the world's second-largest barrier.
Reef.
#9.
Trip to Chichen Itza A journey to the Mayan city of Chichen.
Itza is one of the top-rated things to do on the Mayan Riviera.
Despite the fact that the drive takes roughly three hours, one way.
The images of Chichen Itza, which is located in the neighboring state of Yucatan, come to mind when one thinks of Mexico as a whole.
When, it comes to Chichen Itza.
The image of El Castillo, or the Temple of Kukulcan, is the most well-known.
And, as stunning as it is physically.
It is arguably more so architecturally, especially considering the Mayans planned it too.
Eerily sync with the skies and the Mayan calendar., the city thrived more than a thousand years.
Ago.
The, stone, carvings and ancient ball court, as well as the Temple of the Warriors and the Wall of the Skulls, remain as beautiful reminders of the Mayan past.
El Castillo comes alive at night, with a spectacular, sound and light spectacle that illuminates the structure.
On the vernal and autumnal equinoxes.
The shadow of the sun appears to be a snake slithering down the stairs of El Castillo, making it a fantastic spot to visit during that time.
#10.
Visit, the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve This vast nature reserve is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site that runs for 75 kilometers along the Caribbean coast, fully untamed, Sian Ka'an means “gate of heaven” or “a place where heaven begins”.
This contains a maritime protected area with thousands of species of flora and fauna, which is why the region became a designated Biosphere Reserve in 1986.
You will find many bird species, as well as jaguars, pumas, ocelots, crocodiles, and manatees.
If.
You still haven't had your fill of cenotes.
There are a couple more in the Sian Ka'an reserve.
A sightseeing trip is the best way to get the most out of the reserve;.
You will have the opportunity to uncover its hidden gems.
However.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can explore the reserve on your own, but watch out for the crocodiles.
Well.
That is all for today's video.
I hope you enjoyed the video.
Do, leave us a comment or a like.
If you did enjoy the video.
Consider subscribing and before you start packing for your trip, consider looking at some of my other videos from other amazing travel, destinations!, Happy, Traveling.
FAQs
Is Riviera Maya safe 2023? ›
June 2023 Update: Of course it's quite a diverse region, so the safety situation can vary in different areas. However in general the Riviera Maya remains one of the safest areas you can visit in Mexico.
What is Riviera Maya known for? ›The Riviera Maya is famous for its large scale all-inclusive resorts and a historical tourism base of smaller boutique hotels as well as the many fine-dining restaurants available along the Fed 307 and on or near the beaches.
How do I book excursions in Riviera Maya? ›You can go on Xcaret website and book directly with them we did that with XelHa. Just read thru the descriptions on any excursion about pick up availability. Most include it in the excursion some charge extra. Most companies pick up in front of the resort.
Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now 2023? ›Crime: Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations.
Which is nicer Cancun or Riviera Maya? ›Despite the fact that the beach is beautiful in both places, some people prefer the beach in Cancun because it's wider and more vibrant in color than the beach in the Riviera Maya. Many honeymooners choose the Riviera Maya because the region tends to be more romantic.
What is the best month to go to Riviera Maya? ›The best time to visit is between December and March when the weather is most settled. The hottest month of the year is May with an average daily maximum of 36 C and an average low of 23 C.
What money should I take to Riviera Maya? ›The Peso. The Mexican Peso is the national currency, although US dollars are still widely accepted in the businesses throughout Cancun and the Riviera Maya. Euros are also accepted in certain businesses.
Is Riviera Maya swimmable? ›Fringed by a lush jungle and washed by the tranquil Caribbean Sea, the beaches of the Riviera Maya are among the best in Mexico, mostly deserted, and when the sargasso weed is not invading, the best spots to swim and enjoy the refreshing water.
Do you have to pay for excursions on all-inclusive? ›Unfortunately, all-inclusive resorts typically don't include guided excursions out of the hotel zone as part of their packages. Many resorts have an office where you can sign up for tours to take you out of the hotel.
Do you pay for shore excursions? ›Shore excursions, or cruise excursions, are organised by the cruise line using a local tour operator. The cruise line pays the tour operator about half of what you pay. That means if a tour was $150, then probably only $75 would go to the local tour company.
Do I need pesos in Riviera Maya? ›
While U.S. dollars are often accepted in the Riviera Maya, you will generally get a better deal by paying in pesos as explained below.
Do I need a negative Covid test to fly from Mexico to the US? ›COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.
As of June 12, 2022, people entering the U.S. no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
To this day, there are no entry restrictions in Mexico and no obligation to carry a COVID test or to do quarantine. Check the current status of the pandemic in Mexico and follow the sanitary rules to prevent contagion (information only in Spanish).
What are the New Mexico travel restrictions? ›All arrivals to New Mexico, including citizens and residents, are recommended to present a negative PCR test upon arrival. Vaccinated arrivals from any country can enter as tourists.
Which is better Cabo or Riviera Maya? ›Los Cabos is known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and famous residents, while the Riviera Maya offers a more relaxed lifestyle, focused on ecotourism and cultural experiences.
Is Riviera Maya worth it? ›In the end, there is no such thing as asking ourselves “is the Riviera Maya worth it?, because we know it totally is. If you have taken tropical vacations in the Caribbean or Hawaii and are looking for a new destination to visit, the Riviera Maya is an excellent choice.
Is Riviera Maya quieter than Cancun? ›The Riviera Maya region tends to offer a more laid-back, relaxed vibe, which makes sense given how far apart the resorts are in this area. Visitors can still enjoy some nightlife and shopping in towns like Playa del Carmen and Tulum, but if you are not staying in those cities, then you have to drive to get there.
What time of year to avoid seaweed in Riviera Maya? ›In the Caribbean, seaweed season is generally May to October. The worst time for seaweed in Cancun, the Dominican Republic and much of the Caribbean is during the summer months.
What is the coldest month in Riviera Maya? ›June is the hottest month in Riviera Maya with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) and the coldest is January at 23°C (73°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 10 in August. The wettest month is September with an average of 247mm of rain.
What is hurricane season in Riviera Maya? ›If you're heading to Cancun and the Riviera Maya this summer, forecasts are now out for the upcoming hurricane season! June 1st to November 30th is when the hurricane season officially begins, and during this period, you can typically expect hurricanes and tropical storms in the Mexican Caribbean.
Do Mexicans prefer pesos or dollars? ›
The national currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). However the US Dollar is widely accepted across Mexico especially in the more touristic places like Playa del Carmen.
Is it better to use cash or credit card in Mexico? ›Paying with a credit card will give you the best exchange rate. Most restaurants, hotels and stores accept credit cards in Mexico.
Is $100 a lot of money in Mexico? ›Is $100 a lot of money in Mexico? Yes. $100 USD goes a lot further in Mexico than in the United States and in other western currencies.
Where is the clearest water in Riviera Maya? ›Xpu-Ha Beach
There you'll find Xpu-Ha (pronounced sphu-ha) Beach, another one of the best beaches on the Riviera Maya. Why It Made Our List: Awarded TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence, Xpu-Ha is a small beach that makes a huge impact with its unsullied white sand and clear, crystal-blue waters.
As a precaution you should not drink tap water in Mexico even if it's purified at the source. Most resorts and hotels provide bottled water or large jugs of purified water for you to refill your bottle.
Do you need water shoes in Riviera Maya? ›Watershoes. A great investment if you're visiting this adventure park is a pair of shoes for water activities. Sandals might fall off on the zip-lines and regular shoes are not too comfortable when they get soaked. So, the perfect choice are watershoes.
Is it cheaper to buy excursions on the ship? ›Is it cheaper to book shore excursions on the ship? No. Most cruise lines either charge the same prices for shore excursions booked online and on board or offer a discount for tours purchased in advance.
How many times can you eat at an all-inclusive resort? ›Obviously every resort is different, but the routine is basically the same: three standard meals a day, several special food events (high tea, midnight pizza buffet, Twilight blood sausage party), and room service.
Do you eat for free at all-inclusive resorts? ›An all-inclusive vacation is a vacation that includes all the essentials in the booking price. Besides accommodation, you can expect food, drinks, activities, and entertainment to be included, without having to pay extra for it.
Should you take your passport with you on shore excursions? ›Taking Your Passport
Should you take your passport with you on shore excursions? No, you shouldn't bring your passport, unless your tour requires it. We recommend bringing your driver's license as a form of ID instead.
Can you have fun on a cruise without excursions? ›
You absolutely do not have to do shore excursions on a cruise. You are free to come and go at will from most cruise ships while they are in ports of call. Shore excursions are simply one means to explore the areas visited by the ship and to participate in available activities off the ship.
Do excursions get cheaper closer to the date? ›Many operators offer prices from 10% to 30% cheaper than the highest price they will reach in the weeks before the tour departs. The best part is, once your dates are locked in, you have the freedom to decide when you book your flights, and so the hunt for a great deal begins again.
How much is $1 US in Mexico? ›1 USD = 17.1243 MXN Jul 01, 2023 14:31 UTC.
How much cash should I bring to Mexico for tips? ›Tips. Use your best judgment when deciding how much cash to bring with you to Mexico. A good rule to follow is to bring 25% of your total budget in cash.
Should I convert my US dollars to pesos? ›Most businesses will take U.S. dollars, but it's better to convert your currency to pesos. You'll get better deals and it is the currency of Mexico. Many people get pesos from their bank at home before travel. We normally use ATMs when we arrive at the Cancun airport.
Is it safe to travel to Cancun right now 2023? ›If you're thinking about a vacation and wondering, “Is Cancun Safe?” … the short answer is: the Yucatán Peninsula, including Cancun, Tulum, and the Riviera, is the safest area of Mexico in 2023, according to the US State Department.
Is it safe to go to Riviera Maya now? ›The U.S. State Department currently has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, which includes Riviera Maya. This means that travelers should exercise increased caution when visiting and be aware of heightened risks to safety and security due to crime and kidnapping.
How safe is Playa del Carmen 2023? ›Playa del Carmen is a generally safe destination for solo visitors, though they should exercise caution as petty crime and scams have been known to occur in Mexico.
What is the #1 safest city in Mexico? ›The city in Mexico considered the safest with the lowest crime rate is Merida, located in Yucatan. It's also one of the most affordable cities in Mexico, making it a popular destination for retirees and expats. Merida's low crime rate makes it an excellent choice for visiting or living.
What is the safest entry point to Mexico? ›The Ojinaga - Presidio. This border crossing has about one million vehicles every year coming through here. The landscape is mostly flat, but the path does have some curves. It's not as busy as other crossings so it can be a bit safer for those who are looking to avoid crowds while still getting across safely.
What is the safest state in USA 2023? ›
New Hampshire is the safest state in the US, with just 20 reported homicide incidents. Vermont and Wyoming follow closely behind, in second and third place, with 24 and 27 homicides respectively.
When should I avoid traveling to Cancun? ›Avoid visiting during Christmas, New Year's, and especially Spring Break as these are the most hectic travel periods for Cancun. If possible, avoid Mexico's hurricane season, which stretches from late-July to late-October.
Is Cancun safe if you stay on the resort? ›"While the city of Cancun itself may have crime, the resorts are typically extremely safe. In fact, many even have their own armed guards. Once you get toward areas like Riviera Maya and Costa Mujeres, the crime rates plummet," the site says.
Do you need a PCR test to enter Cancun? ›Entry and Exit Requirements Into Mexico
A negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) is not required for entry. Health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry. Passengers and aircrew members arriving at Mexican airports may be subject to health screenings including temperature checks.
The best times to visit Riviera Maya are January through April, the same as Cancun and Cozumel. The worst times are September and October during the peak rainy season. The three popular tourist destinations are located close to each other and share similar weather and peak tourism seasons.
Are mosquitoes bad in Riviera Maya? ›First of all, mosquitoes propagate like the plague during the rainy season, but as we're living in a tropical environment, they're around to feast on us year-round, come rain or shine.
Is the ocean swimmable in Riviera Maya? ›Playa del Carmen, the north beach in Tulum, and Akumal all have lifeguards for the beaches but they are limited. Swim close to shore and it you are not a big swimmer, wear a life vest. Waves will not get to big, this is a not a surfers paradise so swimming can be done every day!
Which is safer Cancun or Playa del Carmen? ›Playa del Carmen has always been just as safe as Cancun. There have been some rocky incidents over the past few years in the city, but overall, it is still an extremely safe destination.
Is Playa del Carmen safe to walk around? ›Be extra careful at night in Playa del Carmen
As with many places in the world, most crimes in Playa del Carmen occur at night. Besides being extra careful at the bars in Playa del Carmen, you'll also want to be extra careful when walking alone at night.
According to the website Numbeo, Playa del Carmen currently has an overall Safety Index of 50.55 as well as a Crime Index of 49.45, which is basically low-moderate on both counts.