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Ultimate 2-Week Yucatan Itinerary in Mexico

Embark on an incredible journey to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula: the Caribbean dream destination. From driving past the stunningly turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya to exploring ancient ruins and colorful colonial streets, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in this part of Mexico . Add the region’s delicious (street)food, remarkable large cenotes, and vast jungles, and you’re set for quite the adventure. Discover all the best spots with this ultimate 2-week Yucatan itinerary.

Two weeks in the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico has an incredible range of destinations, from bustling tourist hubs like Cancun and Tulum to historic colonial cities like Valladolid and Merida. Though you can get around with public transportation, this Yucatan itinerary is best traveled by car, allowing you to hop between the region’s beautiful beaches, cenotes, and Mayan ruins. 

Tip: Many people speak English in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, but learning a few words in Spanish is always appreciated. Knowing how to greet people, order food and drinks, or ask for directions goes a long way!

Day 1: Arrival in Cancun

Start your Yucatan adventure in popular Cancun, known for its beaches, numerous resorts, and buzzing nightlife. As an iconic spring break destination, the city on the Caribbean coast immediately reveals one of the biggest draws to the region: the stunning turquoise sea. 

Take some time to recover from your flight by heading to the beach and grabbing some food at one of the restaurants. You’ll find the best beaches in the Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone) , a long strip of soft sands and high-rise hotels. 

Tip: If you have time, it’s also an option to travel directly to Tulum . The boho town has an airport , though it’s much smaller and has fewer flights than Cancun. 

Where to Stay in Cancun 

In Cancún, the buzzing Hotel Zone is the perfect place for beach lovers, with pristine shores and vibrant nightlife. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a bit more authentic local experience with traditional markets and restaurants, choose a hotel in downtown Cancun . 

Hotels in Cancun 😴

Day 2-3: Tulum

Just 2 hours south of busy Cancun, you’ll find the slower, laid-back town of Tulum. With incredible white-sand beaches, jungles, Mayan ruins, and unique hotels , it makes the perfect destination to unwind on your Yucatan travel itinerary. 

Soak up the sun on the famous Tulum Beach that lies in front of the resorts of the Hotel Zone . With incredibly blue water and powdery sand, it’s a real slice of paradise and one of the main reasons people visit the Caribbean town.

Afterward, depending on where you’re staying, have dinner in the Hotel Zone or head to the vibrant Tulum Centro for some yummy tacos. Downtown Tulum also makes the perfect place to go boutique shopping or find some cool souvenirs!

Join this local food tour or vegan food tour in Tulum .

Tulum Cenotes and Ruins

Take your time to explore the area; head off on a half-day trip to hidden cenotes (also the best way to cool down on your Yucatan itinerary!) or walk amongst the ancient Mayan ruins that sit perched on the coast’s cliffs. You can tour the Tulum pyramids on your own or book a tour to learn more about the Peninsula’s rich history.

Read: Best things to do in Tulum, Mexico

How to Get to Tulum

Tulum is only 2 hours away from Cancun and is easy to get to by bus, car, or taxi. Rent a car in Cancun and drive south along the stunning coastline. Alternatively, hop on one of the ADO buses that leave for Tulum at the main bus terminal downtown ( book your tickets here ). Traveling by bus is generally the cheapest way of getting around the Yucatan in Mexico.

We recommend to rent a car in Mexico through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Where to Stay in Tulum

Tulum has new accommodations pop up everywhere in town, with many dotted along the coastline ( Hotel Zone ). Prices are a bit higher here, but hotels include different amenities and have direct access to the beautiful beaches. You can also find good apartments and hotels downtown (Centro). 

Hotels in Tulum 😴

Day 4: Day Trip to Sian Ka’an

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected area on the Caribbean coast in Mexico, home to many animal species and stunning landscapes. Take a day to explore the jungle marshes, mangroves, cenotes, and vibrant blue lagoons in this protected UNESCO site.

Whether it’s relaxing in a hammock with your feet in the water of Laguna de Kaan Luum or walking through the jungle and past ancient Mayan ruins, Sian Ka’an offers a refreshing addition to your 2-week Yucatan itinerary. Cool off in the huge open cenote, float down man-made canals, and explore the Muyil ruins by booking an organized tour . 

Note: Due to the harsh chemicals in many sunscreens and bug sprays, you’re not allowed to wear them in the reserve (and many other places in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula). Instead, choose a non-toxic bug spray and reef-safe sunscreen .

Here are all your hotel options in Tulum.

Day 5-7: Bacalar (Highlight of Yucatan)

Discover the magical town of Bacalar, one of the highlights of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. This beautiful destination is known for its freshwater lagoon with shockingly turquoise water and vibrant downtown. Though it’s growing in popularity, it remains somewhat of a hidden gem, making it a must-see on your Yucatan itinerary.

Read: Best things to do in Bacalar, Mexico

Spend a few days exploring the different corners of Bacalar and its surroundings, from deep open-air cenotes to powerful streams and the lagoon of seven different colors. Once you get to Bacalar, unwind at one of the beach clubs (Balnearios) at the lagoon’s edge and witness the beautiful sunset from the fortress downtown.

Kayak, Paddleboard , or Boat Tour on the Lagoon

Kayaking on the Bacalar Lagoon is easily one of the best things to do on a 2-week Yucatan itinerary. You can rent kayaks (or paddleboards) around the lake, including many Balnearios (200 – 300 MXN). Head out early to explore the island crops and ancient stromatolites.

Book an amazing sunrise paddleboard tour here

For a similarly relaxed experience, you can book a boat tour on the lake. There are many companies all around the lagoon offering 2-hour tours in a lancha (small boat) or ponton (pontoon). However, you can also hop on a sailboat or small catamaran for 3-4 hours. ( Book your tour here )

How to Get to Bacalar

If you’re renting a car in Mexico, make your way further south to Bacalar. From Tulum, it’s about a 3-hour drive through beautiful jungle roads. 

You also have the option to travel on the ADO bus that departs directly from Tulum. Though time-consuming (5+ hours), the buses are comfortable, safe, and easy to use. The bus drop-off in Bacalar is about 15 minutes from the town’s center. 

Book your bus tickets to Bacalar in advance

Where to Stay in Bacalar

The best place to stay in Bacalar is in the heart of town, where you find most hotels, restaurants, and the Bacalar park. From here, it’s only a short walk to the stunning lagoon. You can also book a boutique hotel or guesthouse directly on the lagoon, with private piers and stunning water views.

Hotels in Bacalar 😴

Day 8-9: Valladolid : A Yucatan Itinerary Must

On day 8 of your Yucatan travel itinerary, head to the beautiful Valladolid, which is full of color, culture, and history. When you arrive in the afternoon, explore the city’s rainbow-colored alleys and indulge in some delicious Yucateco dishes for dinner.

Read: Best things to do in Valladolid, Mexico

The next day, wander around the charming pastel streets, and explore the majestic San Servacio Cathedral, while you hunt for a yummy breakfast spot. From the restaurant patio, you can easily take in all the surrounding colonial architecture and lively marketplaces. Afterward, use the warm afternoon to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of nearby cenotes. ( Join this cenotes tour )  

Tip: Valladolid has a lovely cenote (Cenote Zaci) right in the center, only a short walk from the main square. This is a popular spot to visit but a must-see if you’re in the city!

How to Get to Valladolid

The colorful city of Valladolid lies about 4 hours away from Bacalar , meaning it’ll take a good chunk of your day to get there. You also have the option of the ADO bus to Valladolid. Note: There’s not always a direct bus route from Bacalar to Valladolid, so browse your options on the ADO site in advance.

Where to Stay in Valladolid

From colorful hostels to beautiful boutique hotels , there’s accommodation for every type of traveler in Valladolid. Most lie close to the center, making it easier to explore all the sites. What’s more, many include a delicious Mexican breakfast, too!

Hotels in Valladolid 😴

Day 10: Chichen Itzá

Close to Valladolid lies Mexico’s most famous Mayan site: Chichen Itzá. Perched between the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula, it’s impossible to visit the nearby city and not take a morning to visit this stunning complex. 

Made up of multiple Mayan ruins, Chichen Itzá is one of the largest Mayan cities to have ever existed and the most visited ancient site in Mexico . Rent a car or motorbike, or join a tour to Chichen Itza to visit the iconic historical remains, wandering between massive step pyramids and stone pillars. 

How to Get to Chichen Itzá

Chichen Itzá is about a 45-minute drive from Valladolid. Once you’ve arrived, most people spend about 2-3 hours walking around the large archeological site, either self-guided or on a guided walking tour.

Afterward, hop back in your vehicle and use the afternoon to explore some of the other beautiful sites in the area: the quaint town of Uayma, the Ek Balam ruins, or the Insta-famous Cenote Suytun.

Day 11-12: Isla Holbox

On the last leg of your two-week Yucatan itinerary, explore the sleepy beach town of Holbox. Here, soft sandy beaches and calm waters make the perfect location to soak up some last sun before returning home from Cancun. 

Read:  Top Things to do on Isla Holbox, Mexico .

Relax on the island, lounging in a hammock with a delicious cocktail in hand, and listen to the sound of the waves. Days are slow here, but you can easily fill it up with some more excitement by going kayaking in the mangroves or cruising down the coast to Punta Mosquito . As you travel, take in the colorful murals spread across the little beach town, swim in the Caribbean Sea, and spot flamingos on the horizon. 

Tip: Isla Holbox sees some of the most vibrant bioluminescence at night! It’s worth booking a tour to walk or glide through the glowing waters to witness this incredible phenomenon.

How to Get to Holbox

From Valladolid, it’s about a 2-hour drive to get to Chiquilá, the port town where you can hop on a ferry towards Isla Holbox . Two ferry companies operate between the island and Chiquilá, leaving every 30 minutes all day long. The journey across only takes 15 minutes, and a roundtrip to Holbox costs about 400 MXN (23.30 USD). 

Book your ferry tickets in advance online

If you’re driving, you can park your car in Chiquilá, which costs about 200 MXN (11.61 USD) per 24 hours. Tip: Though it’s usually not a problem, it’s recommended to remove all your belongings from the car (learn more about travel safety ).

Where to Stay in Holbox

The peaceful atmosphere of Isla Holbox and its beachy location offer some incredible stays, from luxe eco-lodges to chill hostels with hammocks on the sand. The best area is right in the center near the ‘Holbox’ letters, close to all the things to do and many restaurants.

Hotels in Isla Holbox 😴

Alternative Option: Visit the City of Merida

If Valladolid has got you excited about colorful alleys, colonial architecture, and vibrant local music (and you want to see more), opt to visit Merida instead of Holbox. This city, known as the cultural heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, is rich with lively markets, Mayan heritage, and colonial streets. 

Dive into the delicious cuisine on lively patios while music plays and people dance in the background. Blending ancient history, rhythm, and modern energy, Merida is a must-see for those craving more local culture.

From Valladolid, it’s a 2-hour drive to Merida. Rent a car and drive yourself or book your bus tickets online .

Day 13: Return to Cancun

On your last full day in Mexico, grab a delicious coffee on Isla Holbox in the morning and ferry back to the mainland after. Once you get to Chiquilá, pick up your car from where you parked it and drive back to Cancun.

Tip: Take this day to relax before flying out the next day, stroll through Mercado 28, and shop for some last souvenirs.

How to Visit the Yucatan in 2 Weeks

Your 2-week Yucatan itinerary starts and ends in Cancun or Tulum, both of which have airports. 

Getting Around the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

For the ultimate freedom, we recommend renting a car in Mexico to complete your Yucatan itinerary in 2 weeks. This also gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and explore every destination you’d like. Besides, it’s often much faster and cheaper than taxiing or taking a tour .

Alternatively, you can book a taxi or private transfer or hop on the bus to get around. Though traveling by bus takes a bit longer than by car, the ADO bus network in the Yucatan Peninsula is very good, affordable, and comfortable.

Book your bus tickets online in advance

Our Favorite Accommodations for a 2-Week Yucatan Itinerary

Depending on your budget, there are many options for accommodation in the Yucatan, Mexico. For example, exclusive hotels , seaside resorts, lively hostels , or downtown apartments . Here are our favorites:

• Cancun:   Adhara Hacienda , Suites Malecon Cancun , Kin Ha Villas & Suites
• Tulum: Kai Tulum , Casa Ganesh Tulum , Meteora Tulum
• Bacalar: Hotel Sun Ha , Hotel CasaBakal , Hotel & Suite Oasis
• Valladolid:   Casa Tia Micha , Casa San Juan , Hostal Casa Xtakay
• Holbox: Dream Beachfront Hotel , Villas Margaritas , Casa Sofia

Is the Yucatan in Mexico Safe?

The Yucatan Peninsula is generally considered safe for travelers, with popular areas heavily patrolled by police to maintain security. However, like any other travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night. Luckily, due to its popularity, you’re rarely ever completely alone. You can also get a Mexico SIM card for added security and convenience.

Read more about how to travel safe

What to Know Before Your Yucatan Itinerary

Before you make your way through Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and explore its stunning jungles, towns, and coastline, it’s important to keep the following factors in mind. That way, you can confidently travel while respecting its unique cultural and natural landscapes.

• Learn a few words in Spanish. Despite its growing popularity, some people in Mexico don’t speak English. However, local Yucatecans are known for their warmth and hospitality, especially towards visitors who show interest in their culture.
• Get a Telcel SIM card. Getting a local SIM is great for staying connected during your Yucatan itinerary of 2 weeks. The best mobile data company is Telcel; for only 200 MXN (~12 USD), you have 30 days of unlimited data for social media and 5GB for all other browsings. The card itself costs only 80 MXN (or you can buy an e-sim in advance ).
• Tipping is very common in Mexico. Sometimes, it’s already included in the bill, so make sure to check this before paying!
• Drinking alcohol on the street is illegal . Luckily, there are plenty of restaurants and bars with beautiful patios to enjoy an alcoholic beverage on. 

• Bring a reef-safe sunscreen and non-toxic bug spray . Many areas in the Yucatan Peninsula are protected zones (cenotes, Sian Ka’an). To preserve this beautiful nature, they ask you not to wear any sunscreen, but sometimes a reef-safe option is allowed.
• Watch out for topes if you rent a vehicle. These inconspicuous ‘speed bumps’ are often found in and around towns and don’t always have a sign indicating them. They’re pretty high and can really pop out of nowhere – so keep an eye out!
• Don’t forget to try the different ‘antojitos’. These small dishes (mostly tacos and other small plates) are a must-try when traveling through the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico.

Best Time to Visit the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula sees a warm tropical climate year-round, though the dry season offers more comfortable temperatures and less rainfall. This period is the best time to visit Mexico ’s Yucatan Peninsula and runs from the end of November to May (also the peak tourism season). 

The rainy season (May – October) sees more rainfall and has a higher chance of hurricanes, though travel is still possible with some planning. Keep in mind that some destinations, like Isla Holbox, are better to visit during the dry season to avoid mud and flooded streets.

How Much Do 2 Weeks in the Yucatan Cost?

Planning a 2-week Yucatan itinerary is guaranteed to be an adventure full of stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant local culture. Over the years, this particular area of Mexico has become incredibly popular, with many travelers seeking the Peninsula’s Caribbean atmosphere. However, costs can fluctuate depending on your travel plans and the season you visit. Here’s a quick overview of the average costs:

Costs of Traveling in Yucatan

Travel on a budget in Yucatan, from $480 − $560 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1050 − $2510 USD, and high-end from $2460 − $3650 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $40 − $225 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $20 − $40 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $80 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $10 − $50 USD
• Activities: $15 − $60 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $10 − $30 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Tip: Access to ATMs and the ability to use credit cards can vary, especially in more remote areas. Because of this, it’s good to carry enough cash with you on your Yucatan travel itinerary. Note that it’s best to withdraw in Mexican Pesos, though, in more tourist areas, US dollars might be accepted. Just make sure to double-check the exchange rate provided.

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8 Unmissable Things to do in Holbox, Mexico

10 best things to do in bacalar (mexico’s blue lagoon), 10 best things to do in tulum, mexico.

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Yucatán Peninsula

Few Mexican destinations can dazzle you with ancient Maya ruins, azure Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico waters and colonial cities all in one fell swoop. Actually, there's only one – the Yucatán Peninsula. The peninsula comprises parts of Belize and Guatemala, as well as three separate Mexican states: Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Campeche. Quintana Roo is probably the best known thanks to the tourism mega-destinations of Cancún, Tulum and Playa del Carmen, where millions flock annually to get their share of vitamin D on brochure-perfect beaches or resort infinity pools. But head just a couple of hours west and you hit Mérida, the capital of Yucatán state, whose colonial architecture and contemporary restaurants are a satisfying change of pace, not to mention the many cenotes (freshwater springs) nearby. Neighboring Campeche state is home to mind-blowing Maya ruins galore. This entire compact peninsula holds wonderful, varied and accessible travel surprises.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tulum Ruins

Tulum is one of the most visited archaeological zones in Mexico and for good reason: it’s sublime. The ruins sit on seaside cliffs, high above turquoise…

Parque Nacional Isla Contoy

A white sand beach with manta rays gliding through the shimmering turquoise waters. No hotels. No nightclubs. No roads or cars of any kind. It’s hard to…

Wandering barefoot through the contemporary art museum at Azulik hotel, you feel like you’re in a giant cocoon. Nature surrounds you, inside and out:…

Museo Maya de Cancún

Surrounded by dense tropical forest, the contemporary Museo Maya de Cancún is a welcome respite from the beach and buffet lines of the neighboring high…

Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka'an

While floating down a canal that Mayans dug by hand centuries ago, you see tall grasses on either side and colorful birds flying overhead. You hear the…

Campeche State

Edzná’s massive complexes, that once covered more than 17 sq km, were built by a highly stratified society that flourished from about 600 BC to the 15th…

Chichén Itzá

Yucatán State & the Maya Heartland

Chichén Itzá, meaning 'mouth of the well of the Itzáes' in Mayan, is a stunning ruin well worth visiting for its spectacular, iconic structures and…

Quite unlike any other Maya city you'll visit in Yucatán, Calakmul was ‘discovered’ in 1931 by American botanist Cyrus Lundell, and is located deep in the…

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The Ultimate 10 Day Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

For several years, Mexico has consistently ranked among our favorite countries in the world to explore–and after our most recent return visit to take a Yucatan road trip, we are more confident than ever that it will never be unseated. 

Between the overwhelming number of interesting sights, absolutely sublime food, and incredibly welcoming culture, we can never get enough of Mexico.

With this 10 day Yucatan itinerary, we hope we can help you fall in love with it too!

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is one of those just-right destinations that is easy enough to travel in that newer travelers will feel comfortable exploring, and fascinating enough that veteran travelers will never be bored.

Between the Mayan cities and mystical cenotes, the colorful towns and delicious food, the lagoon of Bacalar and the stunning beaches the region is known for, a Yucatan road trip truly has something for everyone.

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Table of Contents

How We Structured This Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Why choose the yucatan for a mexico road trip, getting around during your road trip in the yucatan, will this 10 day yucatan itinerary work without a car, other destinations to add to your yucatan road trip itinerary, useful driving tips for this mexico road trip itinerary, faq about taking a road trip in the yucatan peninsula, yucatan road trip itinerary map, the best time to road trip the yucatan peninsula, what to pack for your yucatan road trip.

We structured this Yucatan road trip itinerary to center around some of our favorite things to do in the Yucatan: explore Mayan ruins, swim in cenotes, and enjoy beautiful beaches.

We are covering the Yucatan peninsula here, not just the state of Yucatan, and much of this Yucatan travel itinerary does take place in Quintana Roo.

It’s a fairly fast-paced itinerary in the sense that it packs a lot in and involves climbing many pyramids, but to drive this route straight through without traffic would actually only take around 12 hours.

You’ll drive a bit more than that, counting day trips and such, but the bottom line is that it’s a very doable distance in 10 days!

We’ve included some of Mexico’s biggest tourist highlights here, including Chichen Itza, while also throwing in up-and-coming spots like Bacalar, and organized them in a loop beginning and ending in Cancun (aka, the biggest airport hub in the region by far).

This guide to spending 10 days in the Yucatan is quite long, so feel free to use the table of contents above this section to navigate to the most important parts for you if you wish!

When looking for the perfect road trip in Mexico or even all of Latin America, the Yucatan peninsula immediately shoots up to the top of the list.

The peninsula is known as one of the safest regions for tourists in all of Mexico (and for the record, we have always felt incredibly safe not only there but everywhere we’ve been in Mexico), the driving is very lowkey, and the sights, from the ruins of Mayan cities to beaches to colorful towns to the peninsula’s world-famous cenotes, are sublime.

With a flawless combination of safety, ease of travel, and unforgettable sights, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect Mexico road trip than one through the Yucatan.

The best company to rent a car for your road trip in Mexico from will likely vary dramatically depending on exactly when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your Yucatan road trip.

Check prices and shop rental cars for your Yucatan road trip today!

Parts of it, yes, but it would be more of a hassle to reach some spots.

Mexico’s ADO bus network is impressive, incredibly comfortable (some of the most comfortable buses we’ve ridden on anywhere, quite frankly), and can easily get you around the peninsula, including all the way down to Bacalar.

For smaller day trips like visiting Ek Balam and the cenotes around Valladolid , though, you’d need to either negotiate a taxi (not terribly difficult, but a hassle, especially if you’re not comfortable negotiating in Spanish), jump in a collectivo, or book a tour.

There’s no doubt that driving will make this particular 10 day Yucatan itinerary much easier and more flexible, but if you can’t or would prefer not to drive, you can still have an incredibly rewarding trip to the peninsula using this Yucatan travel guide.

Day 1: Arrive in Cancun and head to Valladolid.

Assuming you arrive in Cancun early enough in the day to reach Valladolid before sunset, we highly recommend grabbing your rental car at the airport and then immediately hitting the road!

If your flight arrives in the late afternoon or evening, though, you’ll want to spend your first night in Cancun itself and then get an early start by driving to Valladolid the next morning.

Valladolid is a little under 2 hours from Cancun by car.

Day 2: Explore Valladolid and check out nearby cenotes.

The colorful, small city of Valladolid is a laid-back and delightful place to explor.

The Zocalo, cathedral, and the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena are all worth a look, as are the many delicious restaurants and the colorful street of Calzada de los Frailes.

The main reason that Valladolid is a favorite for people exploring the Yucatan, though, is not for the charming city that is itself one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos (Magic Towns), but for what lies outside of it.

Valladolid is located at the perfect epicenter of many of the area’s best day trips, including several cenotes and Mayan ruins.

For the first several days of this Mexico road trip, we recommend basing yourselves here–the next few days of this Yucatan itinerary are designed as day trips from Valladolid.

For today, start your stay in Valladolid by exploring the town and potentially by checking out a few of the nearby cenotes.

Instagram-famous Cenote Suytun is less than 15 minutes from town by car, as is the complex housing both Cenote Samula and Cenote Xkeken.

Too tired to drive anymore but still want to check out a cenote today?

No worries–Cenote Zaci is certainly not the most impressive of these cenotes, but it does win points for being right in the center of town!

Where to Stay in Valladolid

Valladolid has a fantastic selection of places to stay, ranging from budget hostels to beautiful boutique hotels. 

Here are some of the best, including the hotel we adored on our most recent visit!

Hostel Candelaria — Featuring a perfect location in the center of Valladolid, colorful decor, hundreds of near-perfect reviews and plenty of dorm and private room lodging options, Hostel Candelaria is a go-to choice for budget travelers to Valladolid.

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Candelaria!

Casa Aluxes Hotel — We absolutely adored our stay at this boutique hotel. The breakfast is fantastic, the service perfect, the inner courtyard and pools beautiful, and their location excellent. When we return to Valladolid yet again, we’ll definitely consider staying again.

Check rates & book your stay at Casa Aluxes Hotel!

Le Muuch Hotel — This luxury hotel in Valladolid offers spacious family rooms, excellent service, and a fantastic breakfast, all housed in a convenient location within walking distance of Valladolid’s major sights.

The grounds include two beautiful pools, and the hotel’s hundreds of excellent reviews make it a sure bet when visiting Valladolid.

Check rates & book your stay at Le Muuch Hotel!

Day 3: Visit Chichen Itza and Cenote Ik Kil.

For your first day trip from Valladolid, head to none other than Mexico’s most famous Mayan ruin and one of the 7 New Wonders of the World: Chichen Itza.

We highly recommend showing up very, very early, and entering the park as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds.

Most of the big tour buses bringing visitors in by the hundreds from Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen won’t show up until an hour or two after that, giving you a bit of time to explore the ruins in relative peace.

After you finish up at Chichen Itza itself, be sure to take a dip in nearby Cenote Ik Kil!

Day 4: Visit Ek Balam and Cenote X’canche.

I’ll be honest: I intentionally scheduled Chichen Itza as the first Mayan city on this Yucatan itinerary, not only because I know just about everyone wants to visit, but because the other Mayan cities you will visit after it–in my biased opinion–blow it out of the water.

Ek Balam is located about half an hour from Valladolid, and in contrast with bustling Chichen Itza the previous day, will likely feel downright deserted.

With far fewer crowds and plenty of structures that you can climb, visiting Ek Balam is an absolute delight and one of our personal favorite stops on this Yucatan road trip.

Located in the same complex of sorts–you won’t need to move your car again–is Cenote X’canche, which is arguably our favorite cenote that we’ve seen on the peninsula as well!

Featuring brilliantly beautiful water, a slightly wild feel, and a waterfall, Cenote X’canche is one of those places where it is easy to understand why the Mayan religion purports that cenotes are the entrances to the underworld.

Day 5: Make your way to Tulum.

On day 5 of your Mexico road trip, it’s time to say goodbye to Valladolid and head for the beach!

Tulum is about an hour and a half away from Valladolid, giving you plenty of time to make your way back to the coast and then visit the famous Tulum ruins and beach.

While the ruins are certainly more crowded than Ek Balam from yesterday, their setting just cannot be beat–the views of the Mayan city overlooking the phenomenal beach are just magnificent.

Be sure to bring your swimsuit along: your ticket to visit the Tulum ruins also includes access to the beach, and you’ll definitely want to spend a few hours there!

When it comes time to find somewhere to stay for the night, you absolutely can stay in Tulum itself, but be prepared for some serious sticker shock: Tulum is not only expensive as compared to other cities in Mexico, it’s just expensive, period.

If you’d like to save a little cash, consider staying outside of Tulum instead–there are plenty of options, from luxury accommodation to hostels to boutique hotels, a 20-30 minute drive down the road.

One of the major benefits of being on a Yucatan road trip rather than a traditional itinerary is that you can take advantage of flexibility like that!

Optional Yucatan Road Trip Stop: Coba.

Still dreaming of more Mayan ruins?

With three archaeological sites in three days included on this Yucatan itinerary, you quite possibly will not, but it’s worth pointing out that as you drive from Valladolid to Tulum, you’ll pass right by the Coba ruins, which also make for a delightful place to explore.

Less popular (read: crowded) than Chichen Itza, but more crowded than Ek Balam, Coba boasts some stunning structures in a forested setting, and you can climb the main pyramid for beautiful views over the jungle.

Day 6: Road trip Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula to Bacalar.

On day 6, it’s time to head to the most up-and-coming destination on this 10 day Yucatan itinerary, a place we’ve heard described as “what Tulum was 30 years ago”: Bacalar.

The drive from Tulum to Bacalar takes less than 3 hours, so depending on time you could spend the morning in Tulum before heading down, or stop at Sian Ka’an Biosphere to see another magnificent part of the Yucatan peninsula.

Alternatively, you could wake up early and head right to Bacalar to maximize your time at this otherworldly lagoon–more on it below.

Day 7: Enjoy Mexico’s Lagoon of Seven Colors.

Look out over the beauty of the Bacalar Lagoon, and you may just be convinced that you’ve been transported to the Maldives or to an obscure Pacific atoll.

You’ll almost certainly have a hard time comprehending that the brilliant blue you see doesn’t come from a sea or ocean of any kind, but from a freshwater lagoon.

Bacalar, both the town and the lagoon it is named after, is a sleepy, beautiful place where it’s easy to kick back, relax, and enjoy some truly unique nature.

While you’re there, consider taking a boat tour to discover the best swimming spots and viewpoints on the lagoon, checking out the rapids (basically a natural lazy river), and hopping down to one of the beach clubs for a swim and some food served up with incredible views.

Back in town, be sure to visit Fort San Felipe, which was built by the Spanish in the 18th century to defend against the real-life pirates of the Caribbean that attacked the town.

For dinner, we can heartily recommend La Playita–one of the best-known spots in town with one of the best restaurant views imaginable–and also La Pina, which isn’t located right on the lake but has an impressive garden atmosphere all the same.

Where to Stay in Bacalar

We recommend spending two nights visiting Bacalar as part of this Yucatan road trip–here are some great options for where to stay.

Blue Hotel — With comfortable rooms, affordable prices, and excellent service, Blue Hotel is a fantastic choice for travelers visiting Bacalar on a budget.

While the hotel is located a bit further from the center of town than most, in Bacalar, that’s not a problem when you’re on a Yucatan road trip–you’ll probably drive to most attractions anyway.

Check rates & book your stay at Blue Hotel!

Hotel Tuparenda — We loved this boutique hotel in Bacalar–so much, in fact, that when we doubled back to Bacalar on our Mexico road trip, we returned for a second stay here!

The location is excellent (a short walk from La Playita), rooms comfortable, and service wonderful.

The rooftop, where the included breakfast is served and there is a small pool, has a lovely view of the lagoon in the distance!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Tuparenda!

Maya Bacalar Boutique Hotel — Want to stay directly on the lake, with a restaurant and spa located on-site and no reason to leave?

If so, check yourself in for relaxation and pampering at the popular and well-reviewed Maya Bacalar Boutique Hotel for a taste of luxury… at far more affordable prices than a similar accommodation would go for in Tulum or Playa del Carmen.

Check rates & book your stay at Maya Bacalar Boutique Hotel!

Day 8: Head to Playa del Carmen, stopping at Akumal on the way.

At this point during your Yucatan road trip itinerary, things become a bit choose-your-own-adventure by virtue of the fact that there is so much to do between Bacalar and your eventual destination of Cancun, where you’ll say goodbye to Mexico in a couple of days.

Our suggestion is to head to Playa del Carmen (we loved our time at Isabella Boutique Hotel if you’re looking for an adorable but not insanely expensive place to stay), which is about a 3.5-hour drive from Bacalar and will put you both much closer to Cancun and in the heart of plenty of things to do in the Yucatan.

Along the way, consider stopping off at Akumal to cross a major highlight off of your Yucatan bucket list: swimming with sea turtles.

Day 9: Cross one more thing off your Mexico bucket list. 

With one more day of your Yucatan road trip left and an excellent central base in or near Playa del Carmen, the Riviera Maya is your oyster.

Here are a few of our suggestions for what to do on the last day of your road trip in the Yucatan…

Go for a swim in a cenote (or two).

Playa del Carmen is surrounded by absolutely stunning cenotes, including Cristalino, Jardin del Eden, and Cenote Azul.

Have a beach day at Xpu-Ha.

While the beaches in Playa del Carmen proper are not among the best on the Riviera Maya, Xpu-Ha, which is located just a short drive outside of town, is absolutely amazing and a fantastic place to kick back and relax.

Go snorkeling or scuba diving.

The stunning island of Cozumel is located very close to Playa del Carmen, and is especially well-known for its incredible scuba diving and snorkeling! Whether you book a day trip from Playa del Carmen or hop one of the many ferries over to Cozumel yourself, you’ll be able to find excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Prefer to go underground?

Snorkeling in an enclosed cenote is an unforgettable experience.

Day 10: Return to Cancun and say goodbye (for now) to Mexico.

As your Yucatan road trip comes to a close, it’s time to return to Cancun.

Before saying goodbye to Yucatan travel, though, consider hitting the beach one last time if you have time before heading to the airport!

Cancun has some of the best beaches in Mexico, and some are absolutely free to visit, including the positively magnificent Playa Delfines.

A mere 10 days in the Yucatan could never hope to cover all the incredible peninsula has to offer.

If you have a longer Yucatan itinerary to work with, here are a few other places to consider adding onto your Yucatan road trip!

I specifically didn’t include popular Isla Mujeres or Isla Holbox in this Yucatan travel blog post, as they’re decidedly not road trip destinations, but we adore them both and they’re definitely worth considering adding to your itinerary for the Yucatan as well!

In fact, we started our most recent trip to the Yucatan peninsula with a few days on Isla Mujeres before picking up our rental car, and couldn’t recommend the experience more.

The pink lakes of Las Coloradas, Mexico have become increasingly #instagramfamous in the last few years, and they are still one of the most unique places to visit in the Yucatan!

They are actually private reservoirs belonging to a salt company, not natural lakes at all, but they are incredibly interesting to look at.

Visiting has become more regimented over the years, and these days you’ll be charged a small fee to enter and be required to keep a guide with you, and you definitely can’t swim in the lakes.

If you’d like to see them for yourself, they’re a doable day trip from Valladolid (a little under 2 hours of easy driving each way).

The colorful, beautiful ex-pat haven of Merida is incredibly popular with visitors planning long stays in the Yucatan, but it’s quite far out of the way for this Yucatan itinerary that focuses more on the southern and central parts of the peninsula.

If you have longer than 10 days in the Yucatan, though, definitely consider stopping by to explore some of the best things to do in Merida .

It’s a beautiful, colorful city with lots of amazing food to offer, and is also the capital of the state of Yucatan.

Buried deep in the jungle in the state of Campeche, Calakmul is one of the most difficult Mayan ruins to get to, but it’s also one of the most rewarding.

Climb atop the pyramids there, and you will see nothing but ruins surrounded by lots and lots of jungle.

If you look closely on a clear day, you may even spot the tip of La Danta, a pyramid in modern-day Guatemala that once stood in the lost city of El Mirador and is–by some measures–the tallest pyramid in the world.

The city of Izamal is located vaguely between Valladolid and Merida, and is known primarily for its brilliant color–much of the town is painted bright yellow!

Be sure to check out the Convent of San Antonio of Padua, the beautiful (yellow) architecture downtown, and the markets while there.

Our current favorite archaeological site in Mexico is located only an hour and a half north of Bacalar, making it easy to add on to your Mexico road trip!

Becan is uncrowded, inexpensive, incredibly well-preserved, and a true hidden gem on the Yucatan peninsula. 

If you’re looking for a memorable side trip while traveling the Yucatan, we can’t recommend a visit to Becan enough!

Plan to drive only during the day.

With lots of speed bumps (more on that below) and very few street lights, the Yucatan peninsula is not an ideal place to drive at night. 

Luckily, this Yucatan road trip itinerary should make it fairly easy to drive during the day only–most days include only a couple of hours of driving.

Keep an eye on the time (zone).

This itinerary covers destinations in both the state of Quintana Roo and the state of Yucatan.

Despite being right next door to each other and frequently covered on the same trip, these Mexican states are in different time zones!

Quintana Roo uses Eastern Standard Time, and Yucatan uses Central Standard Time.

Typically, someone will pump your gas for you.

Most frequently, when you pull up to the gas pump in Mexico, someone will pump your gas for you as well as clean your windshield. You’ll want to provide a small tip for the service.

If you don’t see someone servicing the pumps, though, you can also pump your own gas in some places, so keep an eye on what others are doing!

… but be sure to check the pump to avoid scams.

There’s a known gas station scam in the Yucatan in which you’ll be charged extra because the gas pump isn’t set to $0.00 before the attendant starts pumping your gas.

This has never happened to us, but we’ve heard of fellow travelers experiencing it!

Luckily, the way to avoid it is very simple: if you’re not pumping your own gas, be sure to look at the pump and confirm it’s set to zero before the attendant starts to pump.

Keep an eye out for topes.

Topes (in English, speed bumps) are the major way that speed limits are enforced in the Yucatan peninsula, especially in towns and other population centers.

Go over them too fast, and you’ll throw out the suspension of your rental car–proceed carefully and when in doubt, go slow.

Don’t leave anything visible in the car when you park.

This is truly good advice for most of the world, but it especially goes here: visible luggage and belongings left in a parked car can attract thieves.

Leave nothing visible.

Check for onsite parking when booking hotels.

It will make your life much simpler if there’s parking onsite at each place you stay in Mexico, and hotels with parking are very easy to find.

We’d consider it a road trip mistake to accidentally show up somewhere without parking!

Pick up a Mexican SIM card before you get started.

Having cell phone data with you will make your Mexico road trip through the Yucatan far, far simpler, and buying data is incredibly affordable.

To save time and hassle, consider picking up a SIM card for your phone before you even leave the airport.

Do you need to speak Spanish for this Yucatan road trip?

No, but it will make your trip much, much easier.

While you definitely don’t need to know how to speak Spanish well for this Yucatan itinerary, we recommend learning at least some basic phrases before you go.

How’s the driving?

Incredibly easy!

Truly, we found driving in the Yucatan to be far, far easier than driving in most places we’ve been in Europe. 

For most of this Yucatan road trip itinerary, you’ll be driving on flat, well-signed, uncongested highways.

After the initial few hours of getting used to driving in Mexico, we found our road trip to be extremely relaxing.

Like in virtually all places around the world, driving is a bit more complex and congested in and around large cities, but not overly difficult for confident drivers.

Is this road trip in Mexico safe?

Safety is a very complicated subject, of course (I discussed a bit more about safety in Mexico here ), but generally speaking, yes. 

While cartel violence is certainly a problem in Mexico, it very, very rarely touches tourists and even more rarely touches tourists who avoid going near illegal activities (don’t stumble out of a bar drunk at 3am and try to pick up a prostitute on the way home, basically).

We have spent months in Mexico, spread across many different states, and have always felt supremely safe–just as safe as we feel in an average town in the USA.

Our fellow American travelers do tend to stick to the Riviera Maya (basically the corridor between Cancun and Tulum), but every place on this Yucatan road trip itinerary has a fairly developed tourism structure, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and tourism services.

Very generally speaking, the people traveling this route are made up of a combination of European and Canadian vacationers (including lots of young families!), as well as Mexican tourists exploring their own country and a fair number of long term travelers/people backpacking the Yucatan.

In other words, while these places are a bit off the beaten path for an average US citizen taking a week off of work to head down to Mexico, they’re not remotely intimidating places to travel once you get the hang of the route, and they feel very safe.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

The high season for traveling the Yucatan Peninsula runs roughly from mid-December to April, with the biggest crowds (and highest prices) typically found around Christmas, New Yea’s, Spring Break, and Easter.

This is most prominent on the Riviera Maya, though–we’ve traveled the Yucatan peninsula extensively during high season on multiple trips, and have had no issues with crowds or extreme prices outside of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, and while the odds are long that your trip would be caught up in a hurricane, you can expect more rain and cloudy weather during your Mexico road trip during those months.

Lower prices and fewer crowds might very well be a solid trade-off, though, depending on your travel style.

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced Yucatan road trip is definitely better a case of safe than sorry.

We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Mexico.

Cell Phone Holder — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your road trip in the Yucatan.

Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Additional Car Insurance — Whether you purchase a policy that covers car rental (only some do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: it’s worth the peace of mind.

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

I use them on all boats and the occasional bus, and if things get really bad, take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine as well.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

28 thoughts on “The Ultimate 10 Day Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary”

This is basically my dream Mexico trip!!! My boyfriend and I had talked about going this year but obviously we’ll see. Either way saving this post for inspiration. We’ll definitely make sure to see that cenote at Ek Balam, wow.

Ahh I’m so happy to hear that Jessica! We truly love this part of the world so much, I just want to shout from the rooftops about it. SERIOUSLY hoping your trip can happen this year, for so many reasons.

Currently planning ours for next month!! Thank you so much

As a fan of this area for over 35 years, enjoyed reading your writings here. As far as shouting from the rooftops, I often feel maybe I have done that too much. Holbox and Bacalar are two places I have known for many years and often recommended. But now due to mass development they are both becoming almost unrecognizable to me and that is a sad thing.

Great post, Kate. We’re stuck up here in Ohio at the moment and would love to be on the beach in Mexico instead.

Thanks, Mark! Completely agree–we’d much rather be back on a beach in Mexico right now too.

This article was extremely helpful. Thank you for suggested itinerary and descriptions.

So happy to hear that, Beth! Hope you have a great trip to the Yucatan!

Do you think a road trip around the Yucatan would be at all feasible with a 1 year old? I think we’d have to make some modifications but overall do you feel like it would be safe and not an insane amount of driving?

Hi Michelle!

Yes, it’s absolutely doable with modifications (depending on the one-year-old in question, of course). We’ve always seen quite a few families out and about when in the Yucatan. Hotels and restaurants tend to be extremely welcoming to kids.

If you want to cut quite a bit of driving, you can trim off Bacalar to stay more central. Most of the driving distances in this itinerary are fairly short, coming in at 3 hours or less of driving a day.

I finally booked plane tickets to Mexico thanks to your blog! Thanks for all the inspiration. I’ll be following most of your itinerary!

Thank you so much, Allie, that makes my day! Hope you have an amazing trip!

Hi, thanks so much for your 10 day itinerary post. I’m trying to figure out which of the islands -mujeres or cozumel- to include given ill cut out chichen itza and coba probably, and bacalar as i want to minize driving time. Im travelling with a two year old so ruins may not be the best idea. Would really appreciate your thoughts.

Both islands are beautiful, but Cozumel is better known for diving and Mujeres for its beaches. You guys could have a great time in either, but if I had to choose, I’d say that Mujeres is probably a bit more toddler-friendly.

We (couple with 16 year old son) went to Cancun for the first time in March 2021 and really loved it! Planning a trip back in the spring of ’22. We split our time between Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Puerto Morelos, including day trips to Coba, Tulum, and Akumal. Just wanted to add an update, though…unfortunately at the time we went there was no climbing at the ruins which had previously allowed it. We heard different reports of whether that was temporary due to COVID-19, or if that was permanent. Also, do watch out for gas station scams! (Search it on the internet…) I had read of some before we went and was prepared, but I was still pretty surprised when the very first place we stopped for gas the attendant used one of the scams to try to rip us off! We called him on it and he tried to talk his way out of it at first, but when we insisted on speaking to his boss he changed his tune and gave back the extra money. We totally would have been fooled if we hadn’t read about it first.

Hi Katie! Thanks so much for the additional information, sounds like you love the area as much as we do. So far I’ve only heard that climbing at Coba is limited due to COVID, but we’ll definitely keep an eye on whether it becomes permanent. Coba is beautiful but if you’re looking for even more ruins next time, Becan, Calakmul, and Ek Balam are all among our favorites.

Hi! What do you think of going on this trip in May?

You will be very, very hot! That wouldn’t be a deal-breaker for us, personally, especially since you’ll probably also benefit from a shoulder season dip in prices, but be prepared for soaring temperatures, especially inland.

The rainy season generally starts in June, so your odds of having sunny weather are solid (especially if you visit toward the beginning of the month), but be prepared to spend lots of time cooling off in the water.

Hello 🙂 thanks for a great post. we are planning the first night in Cancun as we arrive late. the next day we will drive to Valladolid early and have 1 night there. then we will travel to Tulum, and here my boyfriend and I are discussing, whether we should stay in Tulum and take day trips to Bacalar and Akumal or whether we should take overnight stays in Bacalar and playa del Carmen as you recommend. my boyfriend feels stressful changing hotel all the time and driving so much. did you find it stressful? and would you have done something different now if you could? we arrive March 2 and travel home March 11, 2022 – can we snorkel with sea turtles at this time? or is it only possible in the sea turtle season? thanks in advance. Sincerely, Christina

It all depends on your tastes, but I’d be more likely to stay somewhere other than Tulum and day trip to it rather than from it! The prices, crowds, and traffic are all much higher in Tulum than in the surrounding areas.

Basing yourself in fewer places and taking day trips is definitely much easier than changing hotels every night! That being said, driving in the Yucatan is pretty simple once you’re outside the larger cities.

The sea turtles are in Akumal year-round, you shouldn’t have any problem seeing them in March. 🙂

Hope you guys have a great trip!

Thank you for the great ideas and suggestions . We are planning on visiting Cancun in April 24, 2022. We are looking for transportation from Cancun Airport to Valladolid. We don’t want to rent a car, any suggestions? Thank you in advance

Sincerely, Estela

If you don’t want to drive, the easiest way is definitely to take the ADO bus! You’ll need to take one bus from the airport to the downtown terminal or Playa del Carmen, and then catch a bus to Valladolid.

The ADO buses are very comfortable and popular with travelers (but bring a jacket because they tend to blast the a/c).

Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or private transfer, but it will be very expensive!

Hi Kate – Thank you for all the great tips! We are trying to figure out how to rent a car after our trip to Isla Mujeres. Essentially we are flying into Cancun, going to Isla Mujeres and then renting a car to drive around the Riviera Maya. We’ll return the car. I tried the car rental place but I can’t figure out how to rent near the Isla Mujeres ferry. Any tips? Thank you!

Hi Mary! It’s just a quick cab ride from the ferry to the airport, where you can easily rent a car. Taking a taxi to the rental car agency will likely be the simplest way to get there.

Thanks a mill for this itinerary! We are planning 2-3 weeks for my big milestone birthday so having the different add-ons to extend the trip is so great 🙂

Just nervous about driving, as we drive on left side here in Ireland but I’m sure I’ll figure it out!

You definitely will! We’ve gone the opposite way (spent about a month in total driving in Ireland) and it wasn’t nearly as bad switching between the sides as we feared. 🙂

Hello, thanks for this great post! My husband and I were in this area 20 years ago but a lot has changed! We are considering traveling here with our kids (ages 16 & 12) in late June – early July. They are pretty experienced travelers and have been to different areas in MX a few times before. I’m just worried that the level of heat, rain & mosquitos might make the trip unpleasant. We were in Greece last summer and found that as long as we arranged our day to be in water, AC or driving for the middle part of the day we were fine, but that was dry heat. Any advice? Thanks much!

Hi Rebecca,

With the caveat that I spent my upbringing in very hot and humid climates (Texas, Florida, Oklahoma), I would say that generally speaking, the humidity will probably be more intense than in Greece but the general format of your trip will still be doable.

The heat will be more of an issue at the inland locations for sure, I’d definitely plan on some slow afternoons at cenotes and/or resting, and try to reach any ruins you visit first thing in the morning.

There will definitely be weather moments that can be described as unpleasant, but that personally wouldn’t be enough to keep me away from Mexico. 🙂

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30 Best Places To Visit in Yucatan Mexico [2023]

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

Looking for best places to visit in Yucatan? This part of Mexico has been on the tourist radar for years thanks to popular mainstays like Cancun and Playa Del Carmen. But there’s a lot more to this part of Mexico than all-inclusive resorts and white-sand beaches.

Yucatan is made up of three states: Quintana Roo, Yucatan and Campeche and covers a pretty big geographical area. 

The region has a rich cultural heritage that can be seen in its colonial architecture and spectacular Mayan ruins. Despite a big party scene along the coast, there are many other things to do in Yucatan Peninsula for those travelers who want to learn the rich culture of this region and get outside the tourist bubble.  

Best places to visit in Yucatan

Where to stay: Gran Real Yucatan

Nicknamed “La Ciudad Blanca” (The While City), Merida is the capital of Yucatan that until recently has been flying under the tourist radar. Merida is one of the best cities in the Yucatan Peninsula to learn the Mayan culture.

Merida boasts wonderful landmarks, green spaces, and tons of restaurants. Some of the unmissable stops in Merida are Paseo de Montejo that leads to Monumento a la Patria and Plaza Grande where you can find an impressive Catedral de Merida.

About 60 percent of Merida’s population have Mayan heritage and you can find Mayan arts and crafts in many souvenir stores around the city.

For starters, s stop at Gran Museo Del Mundo Maya de Merida is a must! Here you can get a glimpse into the Mayan history and its role in the Mexican culture. Just remember that it’s closed on Mondays like other museums in Mexico.

Best tours of Merida

PRO TIP:  Take advantage free walking tours in Merida to learn the city. Just don’t forget to bring some cash to leave a gratuity for your guide. 

Spend at least 3 days in Merida. The city also has amazing Mayan ruins within one hour of driving and cenotes where you can refresh after a day of adventures.

Rent a car   to explore Ruta Puuc (or Puuc Route) a historic route that includes a collection of Mayan ruins Sayil, Kabah, and Labna, all wonderful and less-explored sites, that can be visited on a day trip from Merida.

And how about exploring some of the best day trips from Merida? The Yellow City Izamal , or Celestun Biosphere where you can watch thousands flamingoes in the wild make for a perfect getaway!

👉 To learn more about Merida, check my complete guide to the best things to do in the Yucatan capital .

2. Progreso

Where to stay: Progreso Beach Hotel

Because of its location in the middle of the Yucatan Peninsula, visiting the beach is not one of the most obvious things to do in Merida.

The beachside town of Progreso is only 30 minutes north and makes for a perfect getaway from the Yucatan Capital if you want to relax.

Located along Mexico’s Gulf Coast, Progreso is popular for water sports like paddleboarding and kite surfing. There are several kite surfing schools in Progreso, and, if you want to learn this water sport, you can take a lesson in one of them. 

You can visit Progreso from Merida by Colectivo or by  rental car . 

Where to stay: Hotel Hacienda Izamal

Nicknamed the yellow city (la Ciudad Amarilla in Spanish), Izamal is one of the best cities in the Yucatan Mexico, because of its striking yellow architecture and a small town charm.

Designated by the Mexican government as Pueblo Magico, because of its cultural significance, Izamal became popular with travelers who are looking to see a more authentic side of Yucatan, get to know its people and enjoy traditional Yucatec dishes.

Best tours of Izamal

Izmamal is located in the middle of the Yucatan Peninsula, and you can get here from major cities like Merida and Cancun.

The main landmark of Izamal is Convento de San Antonio de Padua that was built by Spanish conquistadors on top of the Mayan pyramid Pop-Hol-Chac in 1561 and was used to convert the native Mayan population to the Catholic religion.

Did you know that Izamal is just one of Mexico’s 132 Pueblos Magicos ? Visiting them is one of the best experiences you can have while traveling the country!

Izamal has several Mayan ruins including the Kinich Kakmo Pyramid that offers an amazing 360-degree view of Izamal.

It’s a perfect place to watch the sunset and the entrance is free!

Wandering around the streets of Izamal is so much fun. Instead of coming here for a couple of hours, spend a day here before staying in one of cozy hotels.

If you are visiting in summer, bring a hat. There’s very little shade in Izamal and can be really hot! If you can, visit Izamal in late fall or winter when temperatures are more mild.

Where to stay:  Hyatt Regency Merida

Uxmal is one of the archeological areas in Mexico that’s part of the historic Ruta Puuc , a collection of remote Mayan ruin sites in southern part of the Yucatan state. If you don’t have time to visit other ruins along this route, Uxmal is a must.

Best tours of Uxmal

Uxmal is about one hour away from Merida. You can catch a colectivo from the main bus station in Merida, rent a car or take a taxi to visit Uxmal.

You can also visit Uxmal with a tour from Merida.   Tours depart daily and some also include stops at nearby cenotes.

During its height, Uxmal was one of the most powerful Mayan cities in Yucatan Mexico and you can still see the remains of its old glory when you visit this site.

One of the coolest features of Uxmal is the Pyramid of the Magician, an impressive 35-meter tall structure with rounded corners. While it is not open for climbing, you can walk around to admire its sheer size and incredible details.

Entrance to Uxmal is 413 Mexican Pesos per person.

5. Mahahual

Where to stay:  Noah Beach Hotel and Suites

Tucked away from the main highway traversing Quintana Roo State, Mahahual is a hidden paradise in the Costa Maya region.

Diving is one of the best things to do in Yucatan Mexico, because of its proximity to The Great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world.

Mahahual is an excellent place to try diving, because the barrier reef is just a few hundred feet away from the shore!

While the town appears quiet and sleepy, I can say that it’s not the case! And if you love diving and laid-back beach vibes, there’s a chance you might think Mahahual is one of the best places to visit in Yucatan. 

Besides diving, Mahahual is known for its relaxed atmosphere. You can bike along Malecon (the promenade that runs through town), shop for souvenirs, and visit nearby Mayan ruins. And, if you get bored, rent a kayak or paddle board to explore the amazing turquoise waters.

I spent 3 days in Mahahual and loved every second of my stay!

6. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Where to stay: Mistiq Hotel

Yucatan Peninsula is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico, but it still has untouched areas where you can see some incredible flora and fauna in its prime habitat.

One of these places is the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve , the largest protected area in the region with over 1.3-million wilderness.

Best tours of Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve

Home to a wide array of biodiversity such as monkeys, manatees, dolphins, turtles, Sian Ka’an was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

It makes for a perfect getaway if you want to spend time in nature and learn about the biodiversity of this region.

The lagoons of Sian Ka’an boast crystal clear water framed by the lush mangroves. As you swim through the canals, you can spot a few animals such as monkeys, manatees and even dolphins!

Tours to Sian Ka’an depart daily from Tulum, and there are also some tours from Playa Del Carmen. Most tours start early morning and end late in the afternoon. 

Where to stay: Azucar Hotel Tulum

From the stunning Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea, to some of the best beaches in Mexico , it’s easy to see why Tulum has become so popular.

✅ Find out where to stay in Tulum . Learn about best hotels and areas for any taste and budget.

Tulum was just a quiet fishing village a decade ago, but today it’s one of the most popular destinations in Mexico’s Caribbean with many tourists coming here to swim in the beautiful Tulum cenotes , enjoy white sugar sand beaches and explore ancient Mayan ruins.

Book your adventure in Tulum

Visiting Tulum and nearby cenotes is one of the most popular things to do in Yucatan. And if you don’t have a car, you can join a guided tour to enjoy everything that Tulum has to offer.

Tulum is one of the most popular destinations in Yucatan Mexico.

✅ Check my guide to the best Tulum private tours

But luckily, you don’t need to break the bank to afford a trip to Tulum. This charming pueblo has many hotels for different budgets and Tulum restaurants offer a variety of options from traditional Mexican to international cuisines.

8. Gran Cenote

Located just outside of Tulum, Gran Cenote can easily be reached by taxi or by bicycle from downtown Tulum.

If you want to visit Gran Cenote, come here early. It’s a popular cenote and gets busy very quickly, so it’s a good idea to arrive by opening time.

👉 Read my guide to learn how to visit Gran Cenote from Tulum.

Joining a guided tour of Gran Cenote is a great option for those travelers who don’t have a car rental but want to visit multiple cenotes and some of the Mayan ruins in just one day.

9. Laguna Ka’an Luum

Located about 15 minutes away from downtown Tulum along Highway 307, Laguna Kaan Luum is one of the best places to visit in Yucatan for a quick getaway.

The most notable feature of the lagoon is the dark blue cenote in the middle which creates a stark contrast with the lighter outer areas of the lagoon. 

Laguna Kaan Luum is a perfect place to relax in the nature thanks to shallow waters, a wooden pier and opportunities for paddle boarding. 

Book a tour of Laguna Kaan Luum

If you don’t have a car rental and don’t want to deal with public transportation, book a tour of Laguna Kaan Luum . This is an excellent way to enjoy the lagoon without a hassle.

The laguna looks like a huge lake and has some basic facilities, hammocks, restrooms and huts where you can hide from the sun. Entrance cost: 300 pesos. If you want to fly your drone, you have to pay additional 150 pesos.

GOOD TO KNOW: My complete guide to Laguna Ka’an Luum will help you plan your trip

Where to stay: Encantada Tulum

Muyil is a small archaeological area just south of Tulum. It’s a perfect place to escape the crowds and spend time in the nature.

Muyil was one of the earliest and longest inhabited Maya sites on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Located in the middle of the dense jungle, it is dominated by an impressive pyramid (El Castillo) that stands 56 feet tall and also boasts a boardwalk through the lagoon which leads to a cool observation tower.

Muyil also has access to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in Mexico with hundreds of species of birds, reptiles and marine animals.

Combine a stop in Muyil with a tour of Sian Kaan for best experience. Some guided tours also include stops in Muyil and Sian Kaan.

I spent a day at Muyil and I got to check the ruins, climbed the tower, and took a boat tour of Sian Ka’an where my guide and all of our group took a swim in one of the canals.

Where to stay: Casa Gatos

A hidden paradise in Mexico’s Caribbean, Akumal is one of the best places to swim with sea turtles .

Located just north of Tulum, Akumal is home to the incredible sea turtles that can be seen very close to the shore.

GOOD TO KNOW: If you decide to take a snorkeling tour in Akumal to see these majestic creatures, make sure to keep your distance (at least 10 feet) and not to bother or touch them. This has become somewhat of a problem, as many turtles have left this area because of the increased tourism activity in the waters of Akumal.

In addition, book  a tour with a licensed tour guide who can give you proper guidelines for snorkeling.

Be respectful to all marine creatures, and remember that you are a guest in their world, not the other way around. And use a reef safe sunscreen that will not hurt turtles and bleach the reefs!

12. Valladolid

Where to stay: Casa Azul

There’s no better place to get a glimpse into Yucatan’s culture than Valladolid.

Valladolid is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has become one of the most popular cities in the Yucatan Peninsula thanks to its gorgeous pastel-colored buildings, and proximity to cenotes, like Cenote Suytun and Cenote Zacil.

After exploring Valladolid landmarks such as the Cathedral of San Gervasio, Calzada de Los Frailes, and Convent de San Bernardino de Siena, spend a day visiting nearby cenotes such as cenote Ik Kil and cenote Suytun, and after that, head toward Ek Balam, a hidden Mayan ruin site that only a few people get to see.

And don’t forget to try local Yucatec cuisine in one of the authentic restaurants in Valladolid. Panuchos, sopa de lima and churros are some of the most popular staples of the Yucatec cuisine.

If time is short, visit Valladolid on a day tour that also includes a stop in Chichen Itza and several cenotes.

13. Ek Balam

Where to stay: TecnoHotel Valladolid

Ek Balam is the Mayan ruin site that is translated as “The Black Jaguar” from the Mayan language. The best thing about Ek Balam is its location away from the major travel route, and it’s not as busy as popular Chichen Itza ruins.

You can catch a colectivo to Ek Balam from Valladolid, which should be about 200 pesos, take a taxi or book a guided tour of Ek Balam .

Best tours of Ek Balam

The most prominent feature of Ek Balam is the El Torre tower. One of the biggest pyramids in the entire Yucatan peninsula, El Torre reaches 100 feet and boasts some of the most amazing stone-carved designs.

Archaeologists discovered Ek Balam ruins only in the late 1980s, when the extensive excavation work was conducted at the site. With only 1 square mile uncovered of the total 10 miles, Ek Balam is one of the most fascinating Mayan ruins in the region.

Make a stop in Ek Balam, if you want to enjoy one of the least discovered places in Yucatan, Mexico.

Entrance fee: 460 pesos

Yucatan Peninsula has plenty of hidden gems. Uayma, is a small village about 15 km from Valladolid that can be easily reached by car rental or by taxi.

A must-stop on your Yucatan itinerary, Uayma is a quiet place but it has become quite popular in recent years thanks to the majestic Church of Santo Domingo with its colorful facade. Many travelers come to Uxmal specifically because of this gorgeous church, but it’s not the only thing that Uayma has to offer.

When you walk through the streets of this small village, you will see many traditional Mayan houses as well as more modern constructions. The famous “La Casa de los Pianos”, a colonial-style building houses a hotel and offers a grand view of the temple.

Combine a visit to Uayma with a visit to Ek Balam and some of the less-visited cenotes near Valladolid:

• Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman
• Cenote Yokdzonot
• Cenote Samaal
• Cenote Dzitnup
• Cenote Samula
• Cenote Xkeken

15. Chichen Itza

Where to stay: One Playa Del Carmen

Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of The World, Chichen Itza is dominated by the big pyramid Kukulkan. It also has a well-preserved market, Ball Court for the Mesoamerican game Pok a Tok, and a Temple of Warriors. 

El Caracol, one of the buildings in the complex was used to gauge the movements of the sun and planets. 

Best tours of Chichen Itza

Plan your trip to Chichen Itza for a weekday, and arrive by the time the site opens to avoid the crowds. You can also hire one of the guides on site for additional fee to get a tour of the area.

👉 I recommend skip the line ticket to Chichen Itza .

Alternatively, you can visit Chichen Itza with a guided tour from Cancun , one of the most popular options. The most popular tours of Chichen Itza also includes a visit to Cenote Ik Kil.

Entrance fee: 500 Pesos

16. Coba ruins

Where to stay: Zamas Hotel

If you are visiting Tulum and want to take a day trip without driving too far, visit Coba ruins .

While Coba might not be as famous as Chichen Itza it sprawls over 80 miles and offers plenty of shade, which comes a huge relief on a hot sunny day. This archeological site has numerous constructions and boasts the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula, Nohoch Mul.

Best tours of Coba ruins

While a trip to Coba is a good option if you have a car rental, you can also join a guided tour .

For a fun trip, combine your tour of Coba Ruins with a quick visit to nearby cenotes Tankach-Ha, Choo-Ha, and Multum-Ha within 15 minutes of driving to Coba.

This archaeological area is located near a small town (also called Coba) where you can find stores and restaurants catering to tourists.

Coba ruins are spread out across the archaeological area with some of the sites located over 1 mile away from one another. Most of the trail goes through the jungle, and you can rent a bicycle or hire a bike taxi to save some time.

Entrance fee: 75 Pesos

17. Bacalar

Where to stay: La Galuna Bacalar

Until recently, Bacalar was one of Yucatan’s best-kept secrets. This quiet town is tucked away into the southern reaches of Quintana Roo and is famous for its stunning lagoon of Seven Colors.

When the sun shines, the lagoon turns up various shades of blue that range from dark blue to turquoise.

Best tours of Bacalar lagoon

✅ Read my guide to the best boat tours in Bacalar

Make sure to choose a sailboat, as they don’t damage the fragile ecosystem of Bacalar unlike motorized boats. And skip the sunscreen when it’s time to jump in the water.

Bacalar is a perfect destination for backpackers and budget travelers, as it offers many hostels and other moderately-priced accommodations. Spend at least one night in Bacalar instead of trying to cram the entire trip into one day. Bacalar might be a small town but it has plenty to do, so plan no less than 3 days here.

👉 My guide to the best hotels in Bacalar will help you choose the best stay!

18. Calakmul

Where to stay: Casa Ka’an 

Calakmul is one of the least known but one of the most impressive Mayan ruins in Yucatan. Located in the state of Campeche , it’s halfway between Bacalar and Escarcega in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve.

While Calakmul is a remote place, visiting it is a special experience because of its charm and authenticity to it compared to other Mayan ruins in Yucatan that have been so commercialized.

From the entrance where you pay for tickets and can hire a guide (which I recommend), you have to drive for about one hour through the jungle to get to the entrance of the ruins.

Once you arrive at the site, you can climb the Great Pyramid, the largest of all Mayan pyramids from where you can enjoy the view of the surrounding jungle.

Bring water and snacks because there are no stores or restaurants here.

19. Xpu-jil

Where to stay: Casa Las Lolas 

There’s a good chance you never heard about Xpu-jil, a small town in the state of Campeche not far from Calakmul ruins. 

Translated as “cat tail” from the Mayan language, Xpujil is a small town along the highway that boasts a remarkable collection of Mayan ruins, which makes it a worthy stop on your Yucatan itinerary.

Becan, Chicanna, Hormiguero and Xpu-jil are some of the least visited Mayan ruins in Mexico, which is part of the appeal. But aside from that, they are remarkably beautiful and tranquil. When I climbed to the top of the main pyramid in Becan I was the only person there!

As with other Mayan ruins in Mexico, don’t forget to bring cash to pay for entrance and carry plenty of water.

20. Playa Del Carmen

Where to stay: Cielo y Mar

Playa Del Carmen is one of the most popular places to visit in Yucatan, and the busiest destination in the region after Cancun. It’s great if you are looking for a good variety of restaurants, hotels, and shopping.

👉 XCaret Park is one of the most popular attractions near Playa del Carmen. And you can book your admission tickets to XCaret online ahead of your visit!

Playa Del Carmen is one of the best cities in the Yucatan Peninsula if you are looking for convenience.

First, Cancun is just a short drive away. Second, you are just a boat ride away from Cozumel that offers world-class diving and snorkeling. And popular destinations Valladolid and Tulum are a few hours away from Playa Del Carmen.

Playa Del Carmen is also near some of the most popular attractions in the Yucatan Peninsula such as Xcaret Park, Rio Secreto, and some of the most beautiful cenotes such as El Jardin De Eden, Cenote Azul, Cenote Cristalino, Cenote Nicte Ha.

Best tours from Playa del Carmen

One of my favorite cenotes near Playa Del Carmen is Actun Chen that was named one of the most impressive underground walks in the world by National Geographic. It’s a stunning place that can be visited as part of Actun Chen Natural Park.

Read my guide to the best hotels in Playa del Carmen to plan your stay.

21. Isla Mujeres

Where to stay: Cabanas Maria Del Mar

Isla Mujeres is a gorgeous island just 15 minutes away from Cancun by ferry.

Translated as the “Island of Women” from Spanish, Isla Mujeres was a sacred island to the goddess Ixchel and is known for its white sugary beaches and the proximity to the whale sharks that migrate through the Caribbean every summer.

Although Isla Mujeres is a popular day trip from Cancun, you will probably want to stay here once you get a taste of this island: the relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Caribbean in every direction are what make this place so special!

Since most people end up leaving Isla Mujeres after just one day, you have a great chance to have this stunning island all to yourself unlike some of the most popular destinations in the region.

Spend your day lazying on the beach, snorkeling, tasting delicious food and catching the sun!

Isla Mujeres is a tiny island, barely 4 miles long and 2,000 feet wide, and offers slower pace and relaxed atmosphere.

22. Puerto Morelos

Where to stay: Hotel Amar Inn

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Playa Del Carmen for a day head to nearby Puerto Morelos, a quiet fishing village that feels a lot more quiet than the busy tourist hotspots that surround it.

Puerto Morelos has enough restaurants and plenty of amazing views to keep you busy and offer a much-needed respite if you are looking for a quiet place to hunker down between your adventures in Yucatan.

Best tours of Puerto Morelos

After relaxing and spending time on the beach, explore this quiet charming town and head south of the plaza where you can find Mexican artisans selling crafts and goods from small trinkets to hammocks and beautiful dream catchers.

23. Cozumel

Where to stay: Hotel B Cozumel 

Mexico’s Caribbean main destination for scuba diving, Cozumel is an island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula that offers some of the best things to do for adventure lovers.

Scuba diving is not the only activity you can enjoy in Cozumel. This island boasts tons of cool things to do from exploring local beaches to snorkeling and swimming with sting rays . 

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is a natural reserve which is a fantastic place to enjoy wildlife, and take in the incredible views of the Caribbean.

Best Cozumel Tours

And, if you are looking for a fun tour, consider El Cielo where you can see hundreds of sea stars dotting the bottom. 

The sight is truly spectacular!

San Gervasio ruins are a little-known spot on Cozumel where you can learn more about Mayan history, and Kaokao Chocolate Factory is a great place to visit on a colder day to learn the process of making chocolate.

And of course, no trip to Cozumel is complete without spending time at the beach. Among the most spectacular beaches in Cozumel are Palancar beach, Paradise beach, and Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club.

24. Isla Contoy

Located north of Isla Mujeres, Isla Contoy is one of the most incredible natural wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula that somehow has managed to scape tourist attention.

This paradise-like island with clear waters and sugary white beaches boasts rustic vibes and sees relatively few visitors, compared to many popular destinations in Mexico Caribbean. 

Best tours of Isla Contoy

Eco tours is one of the most popular activities on this uninhibited island since it has been designated a protected area and became one of the prime destinations for nesting birds and turtles.

You can take a guided a tour of Isla Contoy from Isla Mujeres or other nearby destinations.

25. Xpu-Ha Beach

Where to stay: Hotel Esencia 

Located away from huge resorts, this pristineXpu-Ha beach feels like a little slice of paradise. There is a ton of space and all you need to do is to bring your towel, sunscreen, and a hat to enjoy this wonderful place.

This place offers a few beachside restaurants and amazing postcard views of the Caribbean without crowds with soft sand and crystal clear turquoise waters.

After all, there’s a reason why Xpu-Ha is called one of the best beaches in Mexico.

Xpu-Ha beach sits just south of Puerto Aventuras off Carretera 307 and can be easily accessed at any time of the year.

26. Cenotes

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to over 6,000 cenotes (pronounced sey-noh-tays), natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Some are completely underground, and others are partially underground or completely open. While some cenotes have become famous, some of them still remain undiscovered.

Best cenotes in the Yucatan Mexico:

• Gran Cenote near Tulum – come early because this is one of the most popular cenotes in the region.
• Suytun Cenote near Valladolid – one of the most photogenic cenotes thanks to the ray of light that creates a cool effect.
• Cenote Dos Ojos – one of the best cenotes for diving in Yucatan thanks to a big system of underground caves. You can also rent snorkeling gear at the entrance.
• Cenote Ik Kil – a super popular cenote not far from Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil is a favorite among many photographers, because of its photogenic features, so don’t forget your camera.
• Cenote Azul – located northwest of Tulum, near Xpu-ha beach, this wonderful cenote is a collection of clear blue pools connected via several walkways.

Other beautiful cenotes in Yucatan Mexico are cenote Tak Be Ha , Cenote Yaxbacaltun , Cenote Chichuan , and Cenote Zaci near Valladolid, but there are too many beautiful cenotes in the region to make a shortlist.

27. El Cuyo

Where to stay: Coconut Palm House

If you are looking for a place off-the-beaten track, head to El Cuyo is a small town along the Gulf of Mexico that remains relatively undiscovered.

This pueblo offers a mix of a small town charm with empty powdery beaches patrolled by cute pelicans. Especially popular with kite surfers because of the perfect water conditions, El Cuyo offers opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, paddle boarding and bike riding along the beach.

HOW TO GET TO EL CUYO: If you decide to come here, you will need to take a bus from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, get off in a small town Tizmin and catch a bus to El Cuyo from there.

28. Las Coloradas

Where to stay: Hotel Zaci

Mexico is home to many natural wonders, but a few of them as breathtaking as Las Coloradas, stunning pink lakes on the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Located near the tiny fishing village of about 1,000 people, Las Coloradas is also part of the 150,000 acre Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve – protected wetlands area where you can spot crocodiles, flamingoes and tons of other birds.

The easiest way to visit Las Coloradas is with a guided tour , which can be arranged from many parts of the Yucatan Peninsula including Playa Del Carmen, Cancun and Valladolid. 

Another option is to visit Las Coloradas with a rental car . In this case, you will have to catch a boat from a dock in Rio Lagartos.

Tours cost about 13 USD and take about two hours.

The closest tourist destination to Las Coloradas is El Cuyo, and if you get a tour of Los Coloradas from here, you will not have to spend hours on the road.

29. Rio Lagartos

Where to stay: Costa Esmeralda

When you come to El Cuyo, make sure to visit Rio Lagartos, a protected biosphere that is home to many species such as beautiful pink flamingoes that live in the mangrove-rich habitat popular for wildlife watching.

Although it’s easier to visit Rio Lagartos from El Cuyo, you can also take a guided tour of Rio Lagartos from many other places in Yucatan.

While there are no direct buses to Rio Lagartos, you can get to Tizmin, and make your way to Rio Lagartos from there by bus or colectivos. Make sure to bring plenty of cash with you, as many businesses in the town of Rio Lagartos near the biosphere do not accept credit cards.

30. Isla Holbox

Where to stay: Casa Las Tortugas 

Separated from the mainland Yucatan by a small channel, Isla Holbox feel like a small oasis along Mexico’s Gulf Coast.

To get to Isla Holbox, you can either take a flight from Cancun, rent a car or take a bus to the small town Chiquila from where you can catch a water taxi to Hotbox.

✅ Check my complete guide to the best hotels in Holbox

Another option is private transportation from Cancun to Chiquila from where you will catch a ferry to Holbox.

Holbox is known for its pristine beaches that stretch for miles, clear warm water, and snorkeling with white sharks that can be done from June through September. It has no paved roads and the main mode of transportation here is a bicycle and golf carts.

Isla Holbox is also one of the best places to visit in Yucatan for bioluminescence, and you can do it with a guided tour!

Unlike other in Quintana Too, that can sometimes feel too busy, Isla Holbox is a laid back destination with relaxed vibes. It’s a perfect place if you are looking for a perfect island getaway.

Best places to visit in Yucatan: FAQ’s

Do you need a car in Yucatan?

The best way to travel around Yucatan is by car! This way you don’t have to rely on public transportation or guided tours that can be pricey and offer limited options. When you have a rental car, you can plan your trip however you like and visit hidden gems that many tourists don’t get to see.

Car rentals in Yucatan

I suggest renting a car when you land in Cancun or in any major city like Playa Del Carmen or Merida. One of the best car rental companies here is Discover Cars that offers a great inventory and flexible rates.

I’ve used them multiple times and always had a great experience!

PRO TIP: If you need help with renting your car in Mexico, read my article that will help you to avoid most common mistakes and stay safe on the road.

Getting around Yucatan Peninsula by bus

If want to visit Yucatan on a budget, consider ADO buses.  

ADO is the main bus company in Yucatan, that provides transportation in the region at affordable rates. ADO buses are modern, clean and come with enough space for your luggage, so if you are going to take a longer ride, you can take a nap and relax.

PRO TIP: Whether you are going to travel by car or bus, read my tips to avoid the worst mistakes while traveling in Mexico.

Looking to explore the country beyond the Yucatan Peninsula? Check my guide to the best things to do in Mexico that will help you plan your adventure!

What are the best months to visit Yucatan?

The Yucatan has a humid, tropical climate and temperatures here rarely drop below 20 degrees Celsius. The dry season lasts from early December through May and has the best weather with plenty of sun and clear skies which is perfect for enjoying beaches and spending time outside.

However, it’s also the busiest time in the Yucatan Peninsula. Many visitors from colder climates come here to escape cold weather in their countries, and prices on accommodations and tours tend to be higher during this time. If you are looking for better prices, visit during the shoulder season which is from October through November or May through June.

What is Yucatan known for?

Yucatan is known for its Mayan culture, wonderful biodiversity, gorgeous beaches and warm, tropical climate.

How many days do you need in Yucatan?

The Yucatan Peninsula is vast and demands time and effort. To enjoy some of the best things to do in Yucatan without rushing, plan between 2 to 3 weeks for your trip around the peninsula. It’s a good amount of time to visit popular destinations like Tulum, Merida and also enjoy cenotes and Mayan ruins.

How do I get to Yucatan, Mexico?

While Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the main transportation hub in the region, there are also several smaller airports in the area.

• Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport (formerly known as Mérida-Rejón Airport) in Merida has flights from major destinations in Mexico as well as Miami and Houston.
• Cozumel International Airport  located on the Caribbean Island of Cozumel has connections from Mexico City as well as several destinations in the United States.
• Campeche International Airport has daily flights from Mexico City
• Chetumal International Airport in Chetumal, the capital of Quintana Roo State near the border with Belize. Chetumal International Aiport has connections from major cities in Mexico like Mexico City and Guadalajara and is on track to add Miami flights in 2022.

Is Yucatan expensive?

Yucatan is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico, and prices here are a bit higher than in less visited parts of the country. If you are budget traveler, you can still manage to spend between $30-50 a day while traveling around the peninsula.

Is Yucatan, Mexico safe?

Tourism is a lifeline of the Yucatan economy with millions of tourists visiting this region every year, and is considered one of the safest places in Mexico.

However, it’s your job to check the most current situation no matter what region of the country you plan to visit. Whether you are heading to Yucatan or traveling to other parts of the country, always do your homework, be aware of your surroundings and use common sense.

Consider purchasing insurance for your Mexico trip. It will protect you in case of hospital visits, lost and damaged luggage, and so much more! 

Is Yucatan worth visiting?

Yucatan is one of the most beautiful and diverse parts of Mexico that’s definitely worth a trip! It’s home to many historical landmarks, beautiful colonial cities, pristine beaches and vast untouched jungle. Exploring Yucatan takes time but it’s a lot of fun!

Final thoughts

Although I’ve been to Yucatan multiple times, I always look forward to coming back. While I especially enjoy hidden gems of this vast peninsula, I also love visiting popular beaches in Quintana Roo and exploring Mayan ruins in the middle of the jungle. I hope you too, will get to cross some of the cool places off your bucket list soon! 

23 Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

Written By: Justin and Tracey

Updated On: April 18, 2024

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is an expansive swath of land in the southeastern part of the country, separating the Caribbean Sea from the Gulf of Mexico. From the azure waters of the Caribbean Coast to the remains of ancient Mayan ruins strewn throughout the interior, there are so many things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula you’ll need to go back again and again to see it all. 

The Yucatán Peninsula is often referred to as simply “The Yucatan” but it actually consists of three states – The Yucatán, Campeche, and Quintana Roo. Most people are familiar with Quintana Roo as it is here you’ll find famous beaches and the all-inclusive resorts of Cancun , Playa del Carmen , Cozumel, and Tulum . This travel guide is going to take you beyond the tourist resorts to explore everything the Yucatan Peninsula has to offer.

Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

Few places in the western world see luxury beach resorts built beside ruins from a previous civilization that thrived not so long ago. Where spring-breaking college students frequent an area just as popular to world-renown archaeologists and academic experts from around the globe. The Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico appeals to everyone!

What to do in Yucatan Mexico

This Mexico Yucatan guide was originally written by Justin and Tracy and it has been updated and expanded for 2022

Littered with archeological sites, endless white-sand beaches, and containing the ring of Cenotes , there are so many things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula that it will draw you back again and again. No matter the reason, once you get there, there are many different ways you can explore, enjoy, and enrapture yourself in the Yucatan Peninsula. This area, once a primary stronghold of the Mayan Empire, is now a haven for tourists of all walks of life.

Our Favourite Hotels in the Yucatan

When we visit the Yucatan Peninsula, we often stay in all-inclusive hotels for at least a week to relax before setting out to explore. And sometimes we simply book a week-long getaway. These are some of the hotels we’ve stayed in and have thoroughly enjoyed. Read more: Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Hotels and Areas For Every Budget

• Excellence Cancun Riviera  – This all inclusve adults only hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway or special occasion. We had a private pool on our rooftop and enjoyed the incredible spa.
• Moon Palace Grand  –  We spent a week here and enjoyed the different levels for families and couples. Check  TripAdvisor  and  Booking.com  for reviews and rates
• Hyatt Zilara  – We love the Hyatt Zilara resorts and it also different levels of hotels for families, and couples. Check  TripAdvisor  and  Booking.com
• Barcelo Maya  – We loved our stay here on the Mayan Riviera. Check out  TripAdvisor  and  Booking.com
• The Fives Azul Beach Resort  – All-Inclusive Luxury Resort – 10 Minutes from Playa del Carmen. Check out  TripAdvisor  and  Booking.com

1. Swim with Whale Sharks

By far one of the best things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula is to go swimming with Whale Sharks. Taking a boat trip just two hours off the coast of Cancun is the chance to check off this ultimate bucket list item and get in the water to swim with whale sharks. Read more: Swimming with Whale Sharks Cancun

We booked our whale shark tour with GetYourGuide . This was an amazing tour that takes you out to the islands of Contoy and Holbox. Besides whale sharks, keep an eye out for sea turtles and dolphins as well.

Book your tour here to swim with the Whale Sharks – It offers free cancelation within 24 hours of excursion and it picked us up at our apartment rental in Playa del Carmen.

2. Make a Stop at Chichen Itza

One of the top things to do in the Yucatán Peninsula is, without question, is Chichen Itza. This sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site of Mayan pyramids, ball courts, sanctuaries, and temples is believed to be the primary location for Mayan Governance. Read more at the Ultimate Guide to the Yucatan .

The Mayan Pyramid of Kukulcan, or El Castillo as it’s colloquially called, is the centerpiece. The steep, high stairs seem to taunt you as they draw the eye up in admiration of a truly magnificent Mayan structure. It is here where Mayan priests conducted their most private and important ceremonies, to give thanks, ask for blessings, and even bury their leaders.

In addition to El Castillo, The Great Ball Court is another thing you do not want to miss. Once the site of an ancient, ritualistic game played by the Maya in honor of the Gods, whose loser lost not only the game but often his life this part of Chichen Itza gives an interesting look into the Mayan culture. Book this highly rated tour of the ruins . Besides seeing Chichen Itza, it also takes you to the Sacred Cenote and Valladolid.

3. Swim in The Sacred Cenote

On the grounds of Chichen Itza is the Sacred Cenote, the primary cenote from which the ancient Maya civilization thrived for hundreds of years. Evidence suggests that the Maya used this site for religious ceremonies. See what it’s like to tour one of Mexico’s underground rivers at Rio Secreto Cenote – Mexico’s Magical Underground Caves

Today it is a primary attraction for visitors to the Yucatan due to the deep, refreshing waters and mesmerizing scenery. This cenote is a key destination for historians, scientists, and professional divers, as pottery, tools, and even remains have been found along riveted shelves in the cenote walls!

Cenotes of the Yucatan

One of the best things to do in the Yucatan is to explore its Cenotes. (An underground cave). There are several cenotes scattered throughout the Yucatan and the state of Quintana Roo. This Cenote Tour takes you to the four types of cenotes in Quintana Roo that exist in nature: semi-open, open, ancient, and cavern explore its Cenotes. Book this highly rated tour here.

4. Take in the Beautiful Scene from Tulum

When walking up to the Mayan ruins of Tulum, you can’t help but think that “these Mayans had the right idea!” With the crystalline aqua of the Caribbean Sea as a beautiful backdrop, Tulum stands proudly on the shores far above the white sands beneath. Amid beach clubs, vacation resorts, hammocks, and sun-kissed tourists, Tulum is one of the most visually captivating locations in all of North America.

The resort town that Tulum rests within does nothing but add to the inspiring nature of the location, as revelers of fun-in-the-sun can take a history break to walk the grounds of the former Mayan fortress. After exploring the beautiful ruins, take a walk down the road to any one of the local restaurants for fresh food and drinks – right on the beach.

Book this Tulum Tour in Mexico Yucatan, it includes a tour of Tulum where you’ll learn of the Mayan civilization and culture followed by a stop at one of the most beautiful cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula.

5. Sian Ka’an Biosphere

Located farther south down the coast of Quintana Roo, The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is rich with wildlife including many bird species. With activities like boat tours and snorkeling, visiting the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is a great way to get out and experience the natural beauty of the Riviera Maya.

6. Stroll The Streets Of Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a major tourist destination in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, and not only is it a good place to visit, but it’s also a great place to stay. Day tours and hotels often shuttle people to Playa del Carmen, where you can shop on La Quinta Avenida. But staying overnight is a must as well.

The restaurants and nightlife will keep you busy, but it isn’t quite as wild a night out as it is in Cancun. There are many places to choose from, including the world-famous Coco Bongo, but you’ll also find chilled-out beach bars, live music, and delicious Mexican cuisine.

7. Isla Mujeres – The Island of Women

Isla Mujeres is a popular day trip from Cancun but you can stay on the island as well. It has white sand beaches, clear waters, and great snorkeling at Garrafon Reef Park. Isla Mujeres is translated to the Island of Women in English. It was sacred to the ancient Mayans who worshipped it as the goddess of childbirth. Hence the name the Island of Women. Read more: The Best Cancun Day Trips . You can book day tours to Isla Mujeres with tours to Isla Contoy for bird watching.

8. Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox is a quiet island off the coast and has become quite popular in recent years. Whale sharks migrate through the region making it a good choice for whale shark tours. No cars are allowed on the island but there are hotels, vacation rentals, and restaurants. You can book whale shark tours from here.

Day tours take you to Chiquilá where you catch the ferry to explore its colorful houses, do some bird watching, and swim in its pristine waters. But if you want to mellow out, stay overnight for a day or two.

9. Scuba Diving

The waters of Cozumel have pristine coral reefs filled with an abundance of marine life and colorful fish. Its amazing clarity, with visibility reaching over 100 feet, makes it one of the great places for scuba diving in the world.

Cozumel is Mexico’s largest island, located a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen. In 1961 Jacques Cousteau discovered the magnificent scuba diving here and declared the area as one of the most beautiful dive sites in the world. They were declared a national marine park in 1996. This has allowed the reef to thrive and the wildlife to flourish, making for one of the most sensational scuba diving experiences you’re likely to ever have. We particularly enjoyed drift diving in this area.

10. Cozumel Island

Speaking of Cozumel, we spent a week on the island not only making it our base for scuba diving, but it is also a lot of fun to explore Cozumel Island. We rented a jeep to get around the island and explore the beaches. If you are staying on Cozumel and can’t make it to the mainland to visit the Mayan Ruins, you can go to Discover Mexico Park to see models of Mexico’s most popular attractions.

Or you can visit the small Mayan Ruin of San Gervasio Ruins to pay tribute to the Goddess of Love. There are markets, restaurants, and bars in Cozumel making for a great Mexican vacation. Cozumel Island is a 40-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen making it a popular day trip as well.

11. Party it Up in Cancun

No trip to the Yucatan would be complete without at least stopping in the famous coastal city of Cancun. Its long sandy beaches, an endless row of hotels, and world-famous nightlife have made it a stop on every spring breakers bucket list. It’s fun to head into town for the night to party in one of its bars. Go crazy for a night and have some fun in the town in the Hotel Zone. Just make sure to stay safe.

Cancun isn’t just for partiers though the endless sand beach is attractive to anyone, Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Mayan World Museum the largest collection of Mayan artifacts . There are plenty of things to do in Cancun and we have a complete list of Cancun attractions here.

12. Sea Turtles of Akumal Beach

Akumal is a popular nesting ground for sea turtles, and swimming with sea turtles has become the top draw in the area. The protected bay makes for perfect conditions for snorkeling. Sea turtles are abundant, and you can snorkel here independently without needing to take a tour. So grab your snorkel gear, rent a car, and make your way to Akumal to see what it’s like to swim with sea turtles. Akumal is located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, 104 km (65 miles) from Cancun.

If you want to go diving in a Cenote, Cenote Dos Ojos is located between Akumal and Tulum. Dos Ojos Cenotes (meaning Spanish for two eyes) is one of the best places to scuba dive in a Cenote in the Yucatan. Cenotes in Photos – Discover Mexico’s Extraordinary Underground Caves

13. Mérida

Known as the White City, Mérida is the capital city of Yucatan State and is known as the cultural capital of the cities in Yucatan. It’s also considered one of the most beautiful cities in the Yucatan. Merida has become a popular spot for ex-pats settling in Mexico thanks to its infrastructure and amenities. Colorful buildings line the streets, where local artisans sell hammocks, traditional clothing, and traditional Yucatan foods. It is also a great place to learn Spanish. It became known as the white city due to the white mansions that line the tree-lined boulevard, Paseo Montejo. Make sure to spend a day or two in Merida for a more authentic Mexican vacation away from the touristy cities of Quintana Roo.

Izamal, aka La Ciudad Amarilla (or The Yellow City), is designated a Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) by the Mexican government. This designation is to preserve its special culture and it is special indeed. Located between Mérida and Chichén Itzá, Izamal is a popular day trip from Merida. Named after the Mayan God Itzamná, Izamal attracts visitors to marvel at its beautiful yellow buildings. Some people believe the city was painted yellow to honor a visit from Pope John Paul II in 1993 while others say it is to honor the Mayan Sun God Kinich Ahau (Kinich Ajaw) . Whatever the reason, it has done an amazing job attracting visitors.

15. Cliff Dive at Cenote Zaci

Cenote Zaci is one of the most popular cenotes in the Yúcatan. Located in Valladolid, Cenote Zaci is just a short walk from downtown. Zaci Cenote is cheap to enter, at only about 30 pesos per person, and offers a simply irreplaceable experience once inside. You’ll find yourself stepping down a steep, narrow, staircase that reveals a grand expanse of vegetation and cliffs which overlook the beautiful Cenote Zaci. Here you can challenge your fear of heights with a jump of more than thirty feet into the waters below!

Watch our video having fun in the Yucatan’s Cenotes

If cliff jumping isn’t quite your speed, the expansive and cool waters are perfect for a peaceful float in the heat of the day, and easily reachable by the walkway that is built into the perimeter of the cenote. Read more: Cenotes in Photos – Discover Mexico’s Extraordinary Underground Caves

Cenotes can be found all over this part of Mexico, especially in Quintana Roo. If you don’t make it to Cenote Zaci, make sure you at least look into other Cenote Tours Like this one that we did .

16. Explore Enchanting Ek Balam

Ek Balam is the ancient Mayan city nearest to Valladolid and that needs plenty of time to visit. The complex is sprawling, with more than 45 structures of varying purpose, design, and size. The most notable structure on the grounds is El Trono (‘The Throne’), where the founder of Ek Balam society, Ukit Kan Le’k Tok’, is thought to be buried.

This is a striking structure with a deceivingly steep climb of 106 steps to the top. From here, one can gaze upon the entire canopy of the Yucatan jungle. Closer to ground level, there are ancient chapels, steam baths, and the Oval Palace. It was believed to be a place of worship giving thanks to the Gods.

17. Climb the Steps of Coba

Coba is among the ruins in the Yucatán Peninsula that offers the most interesting, freshest perspective among history-lovers and archaeologists. It is believed that 90% of the Mayan ruins of the Yucatan Peninsula are still buried at Coba.

Only partially complete in its excavation, Coba remains a rugged structure that peaks above the emerald trees to reveal the true remoteness of its setting. You can see mounds upon mounds of unearthed structures across the forests – where scientists believe that more than 90 percent of the Mayan ruins in the Yucatan remain hidden! Book this Tulum Coba and Valladolid Tour to experience the best of the Yucatan in one day.

While not as fully excavated as Chichen Itza, that is exactly what makes this special. Here you can climb the highest Mayan Pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula at more than 130 feet in height. Make sure you wear a good pair of shoes, as Coba presents one of the more challenging climbs among the pyramids in Mexico, with 120 steep and daunting steps to the top!

18. Las Coloradas (Pink Lakes)

Las Coloradas has certainly grown to become one of the top things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula. With Instagram and TikTok gracing our lives, everyone wants to share photos and videos of pink lakes. It is an awe-inspiring sight to see pink lakes, and the ones at Las Coloradas are second to none. The bright pink salt lakes are the result of the critters that thrive in the dense saltwater. Algae, shrimp, and brine. You can no longer go in the water or even get close to it. There are now platforms for viewing but the best way to view the lakes is to book a tour.

This Day Trip from Cancun takes you to the Pink Lakes in comfort where you’ll explore the salt lakes of Las Coloradas, the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, and a seafood lunch.

19. Laguna de Bacalar (Lagoon of Seven Colors)

It was in 2003 that we took a bus from Cancun to cross the Belize border while exploring Latin America. Taking our time exploring the south of Mexico was a once-in-a-lifetime trip. On our way to the border town of Chetumal (the capital city of Quintana Roo), we stopped at Balacar Lagoon.

Known as the Maldives of Mexico, The Lagoon of Seven Colors has (you guessed it) seven shades of blue. Located two hours south of Tulum , it is the perfect getaway to avoid the mass of tourists in the Riviera Maya.

This 60km series of inland waterways was once a passage for pirates and early traders. We’ll never forget the beautiful turquoise waters of Balacar Lagoon. Read more: 26 of the Best Things to Do in Belize in 2024

20. Valladolid

While the temptation will be to stay in either Cancun or Playa del Carmen we think you’ll get more out of your time in the Yucatan by staying in Valladolid. Located a mere two-hour drive from ruin locations such as Tulum and less than an hour from a handful of other desirable locations, Valladolid is both affordable and beautiful.

Valladolid has the distinction of being named a Pueblo Mexico (Magic town) meaning it has been recognized by the Mexican government as having magical qualities. Valladolid is the largest city in the heartland of the Yucatán state. You’ll want to stay as close to Plaza e Parque Francisco Canton (Central Plaza) in downtown Valladolid as possible. Valladolid has a myriad of restaurants and shops. Plus it is easy to access Mexico’s highway 180, which goes west-to-east across the peninsula. If you want to really see all the Yucatan offers, staying in Valladolid is a must.

21. Go For A Drive – With Your Camera!

It took us only one afternoon to learn a very valuable lesson – take your camera everywhere in the Yucatan. Even on seemingly long, empty stretches of road between ruin locations or cenotes, there are opportunities for the casual shutterbug.

Whether a railway leading into the brush, a beautiful country shop, or scenic nature, the Yucatan will continue giving you opportunities to capture more. Simply get lost, stop wherever you’re moved, and try to capture what only the eye can see. This would’ve been how the Mayans would’ve wanted you to experience their home, so do it! Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is full of photo opportunities, like this beach in Tulum.

22. Immerse with The Locals

When it comes to the people and culture, the Yucatan Peninsula will leave you truly moved. Any trip to the Yucatan is truly remiss without the area’s greatest attribute – the people.

They are so kind, so giving, and so engaging that you’ll find yourself lost in simple conversation while wanting to know more about the customs that make the Yucatan truly unique.

The Yucatan pulls the best from you, and from that, you’ll find yourself truly mixing with a land, and people, who are unmatched in their charm, beauty, and warmth.

When you visit the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, you will create memories to last a lifetime and will want to come back again and again. The Yucatan attracts all types of travellers.

23. Indulge in Delicious Delicacies

You’ve never had authentically Mexican food quite like that offered in the Yucatan. So stunned will you be by the depth of flavor, the intricacy of preparation, and the satisfaction of the experience that you will yearn for it long after your trip home.

Fresh. Bold. Rich. The profiles of even the simplest dish in the Yucatan will leave the foodie in all of us begging for more! We could honestly say upon leaving that we’ve never had guacamole so good and never had tacos so good!

But more importantly, we enjoyed the unique spin on everyday Mexican classics the people of the Yucatan have perfected. There are a few local favorites in the Yucatan, most of which are comprised of some of the best steak and chorizo dishes this side of Argentina! Typically these locally-created dishes are served with pickled sweet-onions along with fresh jams, bean dishes, and sauces such as chimichurri.

Best Way to Get Around the Yucatan Peninsula

For us, the best way to get around Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is by renting a car . We prefer this over tours because we can get to places before the tour buses filled with vacationers from the Riviera Maya converge. Check car rental prices and availability here.

Local Bus – Mexico has quite nice buses that are air-conditioned and affordable. ADO bus company connects cities and regions throughout Mexico and the Riviera Maya.

Collectivos a re the best way to get around if going a short distance. They are shared taxis and are cheap and affordable.

For Transfers from Cancun Airport to your hotel , check out  eTransfers for the best prices.  They offer shuttles to the Hotel Zone, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, and all along the Mayan Riviera.

The Yucatán Peninsula has something for both the adventurer and the beach-bum. Perhaps it’s this diversity of appeal that makes the Yucatan so enjoyable, so striking, and yet still somewhat mysterious. Filled with ancient and natural wonders, turquoise waves crashing on endless beaches and plenty of adventure, Mexico’s Yucatan is a place you will love. When you visit Mexico, make sure to add this spectacular destination to your itinerary.

Plan Your Next Trip to Mexico With These Resources

• Best Things to do in Cancun, Mexico
• Best All Inclusive Resorts in Mexico
• An Unforgettable Adventure at Mexico’s Isla Espiritu Santo
• Swim with Whale Sharks – A Massive Adventure in Mexico

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Justin and Tracey

Justin and Tracy Uselton are the writers of A Couple for the Road, a couples travel blog that focuses on food, drink and culture written from a personal and artistic perspective for the avid traveler. Follow them on ACoupleForTheRoad / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

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1 thought on “23 Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula”

Great guide!

I loved the trip to Yucatan peninsula! The highlights of my trip were the cenotes, lovely beaches in Playa del Carmen, and the colorful city of Merida.

I didn’t know that in Yucatan you can snorkel with whale sharks. Well, that is a reason to return to Yucatan. 🙂

The Complete Yucatan Travel Guide

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LOCATION | WHEN TO TRAVEL | GETTING THERE | TOP PLACES | THINGS TO DO | TOP TOURS | SAFETY

If you’re heading to Yucatan Mexico, this complete Yucatan Travel Guide will help you plan your trip and decide what to see and how to move around, whether you are traveling solo or with friends.

Before diving into the Yucatan guide, I would like to clarify what is the difference between the Yucatan and Yucatan Peninsula, because they are two very different areas.

So Yucatan is one of the Mexican states, and it’s exactly what this post is about, while The Yucatan Peninsula is the geographical region that includes the states of Yucatan, Campeche, and Quintana Roo.

Quintana Roo is home to Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen. I will cover those in another article.

So now that we have clarified this important detail, let’s cut to the chase.

Yucatan Travel Guide: Know Before You Go

Here are the top things to know before booking your trip to the Yucatan: 

✔️ Currency: Mexican Pesos

✔️ Language : Spanish

✔️ Airports : Merida (MID) is the largest airport in Yucatan along with small regional airports. It’s an international airport where you can fly from some cities in the US. However, for more flight options and better rates, you may want to fly into Cancun and get a transfer to Merida .

✔️ Sim Card : Telcel has the best service in the Yucatan, Sim cards can be bought at all airports and in large cities or you can buy them online to avoid wasting time when you land.

✔️ Visas: Many nationalities can enter Mexico without a visa while others need to apply for a tourist permit. Make sure to check your country’s requirements ahead of time. 

✔️ Electric Socket: Mexico uses Type A and Type B plugs. Make sure to get a travel adapter if you need one. If you are coming from the US you won’t need one.

👉🏽 Where is the Yucatan Peninsula located?

The Yucatan Peninsula is in Mexico on the easternmost side of the country. It separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean Sea.

The Yucatan Peninsula is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico as it has cities like Cancun and Playa del Carmen. 

Yucatan map

When is the best time to visit the Yucatan Peninsula?

Since the Yucatan Peninsula is known for its beautiful beaches and great water activities, you want to make sure you’re visiting in the dry season which is from December to April. 

However, keep in mind that the dry season is also the high season, which means higher rates and bigger crowds.

If you want to save some bucks you should consider traveling between the week after Easter and mid-June before the schools close.

During this time of the year, you should still have sunny days and clear skies but lower prices and smaller crowds. Basically, you’ll have the best of both worlds.

🌧️ What is the rainy season in the Yucatan?

The rainy season in the Yucatan is from June to October. It can rain some during the months of May and November as well, but these months are not as wet. 

☀️ What is the hottest month in Yucatan?

March to May are the hottest months in the Yucatan, even though the peninsula experiences hot weather all year round. 

During these three months, there are many days when the temperatures reach 40 °C (104 °F).

When it’s hot in Yucatan it’s unbearable, unless you are close to the water. That is a good time to visit cenotes and check out the beaches because cities such as Merida, Valladolid, and Izamal are extremely hot.

🌀 What is hurricane season in the Yucatan Peninsula?

Hurricane season in the Yucatan is from June to mid-October. Make sure you pay attention to the weather during these months in case there are tropical storms or hurricane warnings. 

The best places to visit in Yucatan 

If you’re heading to the Yucatan, you might not be sure of the best places to go. Merida and Valladolid are the main places people visit while in Yucatan State. 

Here are the top places to visit to experience each of these amazing towns. 

Merida is a historical city surrounded by cenotes and jungles. It also has an amazing food scene. You can dine in at fancy restaurants or you can grab some tacos from a local street food vendor. 

Here is a quick list of the best things to do in Merida :

👉🏽 Visit the Plaza Grande. This part of the city is more than 500 years old. You can see colonial architecture and wander down some of the side streets to immerse yourself in culture and history. 

👉🏽 Eat. Eating local food is a must anywhere in Mexico but especially in Merida. Head to the Mercado Lucas de Galvez where you can find fresh produce and small stalls selling some of the best Yucatan food.

👉🏽 Swim in a cenote. There are many cenotes around Merida but the most famous one is Cenote Noh Mozon. 

👉🏽 See a few Mayan ruins. There are many ruins to visit near Merida including Uxmal and Mayapan. 

✔️ Valladolid

Valladolid is quickly becoming more popular for travelers and with good reason! Here are some of the things not to miss while in Valladolid:

👉🏽 Tour the Convent of San Bernardo. The outside and inside of this convent are stunning. You can walk around the inside and then visit the small museum on the grounds as well. 

👉🏽 Eat in the square. In the historical square, there are many great restaurants to try. Las Campanas is known as the best, but don’t be afraid to try others as they are all fantastic. 

👉🏽 Go on a walking or biking tour. Valladolid is not very big, so it’s easy to explore some of the best sites by walking or cycling. 

👉🏽 Take a day trip. From Valladolid, you can easily get to many cenotes like Cenote Suytun. Chichen Itza is also only about 45 minutes away. 

Things to do in Yucatan

With so many things to do and see, it can be hard to decide what to put on your Yucatan bucket list. No matter how much time you have, make sure to visit a few of these places below!

🏖️ Best Yucatan beaches

➡️ Playa Norte Celestun is a breathtaking beach in Merida . It’s great for snorkeling and scuba diving. 

➡️ Puerto Progreso is about 30-45 minutes from Merida and is well worth the drive. It’s usually not very crowded, so you’ll have the chance to relax and swim without too many people. 

➡️ El Cuyo is a nice weekend trip from Merida with some of the best beaches. It’s a popular place for kite surfing with plenty of rental gear shops nearby in case you don’t have your own. You can also sign up for a class if you’re a beginner. 

➡️ Playa Norte and Playa Sur are both beautiful beaches in Celestun. Playa Norte has more amenities as well as more options for restaurants and bars. 

➡️ San Benito is one of the beaches to visit if you want seclusion and quiet. It’s not very far from Progreso, you can always head there if you want more choices for food and nightlife. 

🌊 Best Yucatan cenotes

👉🏻 Cenote Zaci-Ha: This is one of the largest cenotes near Valladolid . It’s open-air and perfect for swimming. 

👉🏻 Cenote X’Canche: Make sure to visit this cenote after coming from Ek Balam as they are just adjacent to each other.

👉🏻 Cenote Oxman is near Valladolid. They have a few different ticket options for entry. You can pay more if you want access to the pool and restaurant while the lower ticket prices only give entrance to the cenote. 

👉🏻 Cenote Suytun is another cenote near Valladolid. It’s huge with clear blue water. The stalactites at the top of the cave also make for a great photo op. 

👍🏼 Best Yucatan ruins

You can’t travel to the Yucatan without visiting a few Mayan ruins . Here are the best ones not to miss. 

🔸 Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is the most visited Mayan ruin site in the Yucatan. The ruins are more than 740 acres. During the tour, you’ll be able to see many of the Mayan temples and learn about the Spanish conquest of the area. 

🔸 Uxmal 

Behind Chichén Itzá, Uxmal is the second most visited Mayan ruin site in the Yucatan. It’s a four-hour drive from Cancun making it a great weekend trip.

The stonework is intricate and detailed with many different temples and other ancient buildings to tour. 

🔸 Ruta Puuc

This is the best Mayan ruin site to visit if you’re in Merida as it’s not very far away.

Since it’s not as famous as other Mayan ruins in the state, you can experience the site peacefully without fighting crowds. You can also get some amazing photos. 

🦩 Where to see flamingos in Yucatan

Yucatan is famous for having an abundance of pink flamingoes as well as many other birds. Here are the best places to spot these magnificent creatures:

🗸 Rio Lagartos is famous for its flamingoes and its beautiful pink lakes. The best place to see the flamingoes is Parque Natural Ria Lagartos. 

🗸 Celestun has the largest pink flamingoes. You can take a day trip from Merida here and enjoy the lagoons and birds. 

🗸 El Cuyo is a great city to see flamingoes. They are easily spotted just outside the town center in the nearby lagoons. There are over 20,000 flamingoes in El Cuyo. 

👍🏼 Yucatan Pueblos Mágicos

Pueblos Mágicos are towns in rural areas of Mexico. Even though they see less tourism than larger cities, they often have more to offer with beautiful sites and unspoiled attractions. 

📍 Valladolid

Valladolid is not as well known as other places in Yucatan, but it’s quickly becoming more of a tourist town. It’s a great place to witness the authentic Mexican lifestyle. It also has an abundance of cenotes to visit. 

If you want to visit the most photogenic town in Mexico, come to see these amazing things in Izamal . Known as the “Yellow City,” almost every building in Izamal is painted a bright yellow. There are many great places to visit here including Mayan ruins and the Convento San Antonio de Padua. 

Sisal is a small seaport town. It’s only an hour from Merida. It has quiet beaches, small local bars, and freshly caught seafood in almost every restaurant.

🏆 Best Yucatan Tours

While you can explore the Yucatan on your own, booking a tour is a great way to learn about local culture and meet new friends as you travel. 

🌮 Mexican cooking class

If you’re itching to learn to make your favorite Mexican dishes while in the Yucatan, taking a cooking class is a great tour to book. Every cooking class is different, but the best ones include how to make fresh tortillas along with popular dishes. 

The best Mexican cooking classes also include a trip to the local market and an introduction to the history of food in the Yucatan. 

🦩 Las Coloradas pink lake

Las Coloradas are in the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. Along with seeing the stunning pink lakes, you also get a chance to see flamingoes, crocodiles, and hundreds of different species of birds. 

💎 Yucatan hidden gems

A tour of Yucatan’s hidden gems will take you to all the less visited places within the region. Some of the best-hidden gems include the Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve and Ek Balam. 

Since the Yucatan is a huge region, endless hidden gems exist to find and explore. 

Where to stay in Yucatan

The Yucatan is full of amazing places to stay including small haciendas and 5-star resorts. There is the perfect accommodation for everyone. 

🏆 Best Haciendas in Yucatan

🏨 Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana is about 25 minutes from downtown Merida. It’s a beautiful boutique hotel that is on more than four acres of gardens. They also have a small restaurant and cocktail bar on site. 

🏨 Hacienda Santa Cruz Hotel & Spa is super close to downtown Merida. They have tons of amazing amenities, large rooms, a spa, private gardens, and several outdoor pools. 

🏆 Best Hotels in the Yucatan

🛏 Casa Tia Micha : Nice place to stay in Valladolid when you travel to Yucatan. The rooms are beautiful and it’s close to the city center. 

🛏 Hotel Tabasco Rio : One of the best hotels in the center of Rios Lagartos. They have free WIFI and air conditioning. It’s right in the city center so you can walk everywhere. 

🛏 Casa BreMar 3097: If you’re in Celestun, make sure to book a night here. They have comfortable rooms including air conditioning. You can also swim in the pool, take a walk on the private beach, or dine in the outdoor pavilion. 

🏆 Best Yucatan Resorts

🏝 Chablé Yucatán : Perfect place to be if you want to be near Merida but have more peace and quiet. The resort is in a secluded area near many cenotes around the region. They offer basic rooms, suites, and villas. 

🏝 Hotel Reef Yucatan : Right on the Gulf of Mexico, this resort is perfect if you want to spend most of your time on the beach. It’s all-inclusive so your meals and drinks are included. The terraces in the rooms are the best part as they have views of the ocean. 

🏝 Chichen Resort : If you want to be close to Chichen Itza, this is one of the best places. They have a restaurant, outdoor pool, and spa on-site. You can book a room or a small cottage. 

Is Yucatan safe?

The Yucatan is one of the safest regions to visit in Mexico. The crime rates are low compared to other parts of Mexico, especially the rates for violent crimes. It’s also the region in Mexico with the lowest number of kidnappings, homicides, and vehicle thefts. 

Petty theft is common though. You can avoid this by never walking alone at night, keeping your bag close to you, and not flashing money or jewelry. 

Some other safety tips to follow include:

✔️ Put money and other valuables in the hotel safe before heading out 

✔️ Make sure to only drink at  reputable bars/hotels and don’t let strangers buy you drinks 

✔️ Never leave your drinks unattended

✔️ Only use taxis that are metered 

By following the above tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable time while in Yucatan . 

How many days do you need in Yucatan?

Trips in the Yucatan shouldn’t be less than 5 days, but spending a week or two is ideal so you can see more of this beautiful region. 

Here are some sample itineraries so you can plan your time accordingly. 

✔️ 1-week Yucatan itinerary

👉🏽 Day 1: After landing in Cancun, head straight to Valladolid

👉🏽 Day 2: Spend the day exploring Valladolid

👉🏽 Day 3: Head to Ek Balam (You can also go to Chichen Itza if you have time)

👉🏽 Day 4 and 5: Spend two days exploring Merida (or use one day to swim in a nearby cenote)

👉🏽 Day 6: Take a day trip to Rio Lagartos

👉🏽 Day 7: Tour the Mayan ruins of Uxmal before heading to the airport 

If you’re flying out of Cancun rather than Merida, you might have to skip the last-day trip and drive back to Cancun. 

✔️ 10-day Yucatan itinerary

👉🏽 Day 1: Fly into Cancun and then drive to Valladolid 

👉🏽 Day 3: Take a day trip to Chichen Itza (and go to Cenote Ik Kil since it’s nearby!)

👉🏽 Day 4: Tour Ek Balam 

👉🏽 Day 5: Take a day trip to El Cuyo

👉🏽 Day 6: Start driving to Merida, but spend the night in Izamel

👉🏽 Day 7: Tour Izamel and then finish the drive to Merida 

👉🏽 Day 8 and 9: Spend two days exploring Merida

👉🏽 Day 9: Drive to Uxmal or Celestun for a day trip

👉🏽 Day 10: Drive back to Cancun and prepare to fly back home (if flying out of Merida you can take another day trip or have an extra day exploring the city)

✔️ 2-week Yucatan itinerary

👉🏽 Day 1: Fly into Cancun and then drive to Valladolid

👉🏽 Day 2 and 3: Spend a couple of days exploring Valladolid 

👉🏽 Day 4: Take a day trip to Chichen Itza 

👉🏽 Day 5: Drive to Rio Lagartos and see the flamingoes

👉🏽 Day 6: Drive to Izamal and spend one day exploring 

👉🏽 Day 7 and 9: Head to Merida and spend the next two days touring the city 

👉🏽 Day 10: Take a day trip to Ek Balam or Uxmal 

👉🏽 Day 11: Drive to Progreso and spend the day lounging on the beach

👉🏽 Day 12: Head to Celestun to explore the Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve 

👉🏽 Day 13: Visit Sisal 

👉🏽 Day 14: Drive to Cancun and fly home 

How to get around Yucatan

There are many ways to get around Yucatan depending on your budget and how many places you plan to go to. If you’re going to many different cities, the easiest and best way to get around is by car. 

You can rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies in Yucatan. You can also rent a car from many airports including Cancun International. 

If you’re nervous to drive or can’t drive, booking private shuttles is another great way to get around. They are less expensive than taxis as you will often share a shuttle with a few other people that are going to the same destination. 

Most areas of the Yucatan are easily accessible by ADO Bus , the official bus network in Mexico. Buses are extremely cost-effective and are the best way to get around for those backpacking Yucatan. 

If you are not a budget and prefer to take taxis, you can also do so. Taxis are an efficient (but expensive) way to get around. 

🚙 Yucatan Road Trip

Taking a road trip through the Yucatan is a great way to see the area. Most road trippers visiting Yucatan start in Cancun as this is usually the cheapest airport to fly into and there are ample car rental options once you clear customs. 

From Cancun, you can head straight to Valladolid where you can visit Chichen Itza and explore the various beaches and cenotes. 

From Valladolid make sure to go to Merida to see the beautiful city center, swim in a few more cenotes, and eat some good food. From Merida, you have plenty of day trip options including Rio Lagartos, Izamel, and Celestun. 

You can then fly out of the international airport in Merida or head back to Cancun if the flights back to your home are cheaper from there. 

👉 Do you need a car in Yucatan?

You don’t have to rent a car while in the Yucatan, but having a car is definitely the best way to road trip. Otherwise, you can get taxis, shuttles, or take the local bus to get to your destination. 

👉 Is it safe to drive in the Yucatan Peninsula?

Yes! You just need to make sure you follow all local driving laws and pay attention to signs and traffic lights. Petty theft is common though, so make sure you don’t leave money or valuables visible in the car when parked. 

Most roads in the Yucatan are very well-marked so you shouldn’t have a problem getting lost. 

🚌 Yucatan by bus

Using ADO buses while in the Yucatan (or pretty much anywhere in Mexico) is a fast and cheap way to get around. You can purchase bus tickets at any bus terminal in any city. Prices for bus tickets can range in price depending on where you are coming from and where you are going. 

There are also a few other bus companies that run long-distance routes. These include Primera Plus and Omnibuses de Mexico. 

ADO buses are the most well-known though. At the bus terminals, you’ll find posted bus routes and times making it easy to travel back and forth between cities. 

🌊 Yucatan tours

Many people choose to book tours while in Yucatan. This is a great way to get around the area without needing to work on booking transportation for yourself. 

When you book a tour, they will usually pick you up from your hotel. So all you need to do is get ready! After the excursion, they will then drop you back off at the hotel. 

Most transportation costs are included in the payment you give to the tour company. While you can books tours for virtually everything, the most common tours include day trips to cenotes and Mayan ruins. 

Some tours also combine several different attractions making it easy to see many of the best sites in one day. 

Planning a trip to Yucatan

💰 is the yucatan peninsula expensive.

Most of Mexico is very affordable . You’ll find that hotels and food are cheaper than what you might be used to paying at home. 

However, expect the Yucatan Peninsula to be a little more expensive compared to other places you might have traveled to in Mexico. 

Many cities and regions in the Yucatan are well-known and are common tourist destinations. So, the popularity is what makes it more expensive. 

You can still have a very affordable vacation though especially if you choose to eat at local establishments and not stay in large all-inclusive resorts. 

🧳 Do I need a travel adapter for Yucatan?

If you are from the USA or Canada, you will not need a travel adapter for the Yucatan because the plugs in Mexico are the same as in the rest of North America. 

If you’re from another part of the world, you will need to get an adapter to charge your devices in Mexico. Make sure you have the adapter that is two flat parallel pins (Type A). Mexico also has plugs with two flat pins along with a round pin (Type B). 

Universal Travel Power Adapter- EPICKA All in One Worldwide International Wall Charger AC Plug Adaptor

✔️ with Smart Power USB for USA EU UK AUS ✔️ Cell Phone Laptop (4 USB + Type C – White + Grey) ✔️ Suitable for Hair Dryer, Headphone, MP3 players, digital cameras, mobile phones, GPS, PDAs, travel speakers, etc

📝 Do I need travel insurance for Yucatan? 

Travel insurance is not required to visit the Yucatan, but it’s never a bad idea to buy insurance when visiting a foreign country. 

The best travel insurance plans include trip cancellation, trip interruption, medical expenses, medical evacuation, and trip delay. 

➢ Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? Yes, you do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens, I am covered. I have been using   Safety Wing , and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level. Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER . Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase. If you are undecided yet, you can read my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico for more clarity.

📚 Do they speak English in Yucatan?

The main language of the Yucatan is Spanish. When you’re in rural areas or smaller towns, it can be hard to find any local people that speak English. You might want to learn some basic Spanish phrases before heading to the Yucatan. 

In larger resorts and common tourist attractions, many of the workers will speak English. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is merida yucatan worth visiting.

Although Merida is not as well known as Cancun , taking a trip to Merida is a must.

It has beautiful cenotes, several Mayan ruin sites, great markets for food, and a famous historical city center. 

Are Yucatan beaches worth visiting?

Yes! The Yucatan beaches have turquoise water teeming with marine life.

The sand is also soft and white making it a great place to relax, get a tan, or read a book.

You won’t regret experiencing the beaches of the Yucatan. 

Is Chichen Itza worth the trip?

Chichen Itza is one of the most visited Mayan ruins in Mexico. It’s closest to the cities of Cancun and Tulum making it a common attraction for visitors in those places. 

Seeing the pyramids and the Temple of Kulkulkan is a must for anyone wanting to learn the history of the Mayans and their life in the Yucatan Peninsula. 

There are many Mayan ruins in the Yucatan though, so you can always visit another one if you don’t have time to get to Chichen Itza. 

What language do they speak in the Yucatan?

The most common and widely spoken language in the Yucatan is Spanish. Like other regions of Mexico, you can communicate with everyone by speaking Spanish.

In the Yucatan, you might also hear people speaking Yucatec Maya to each other. This is an ancient Mayan language. 

Is the Yucatan Peninsula worth visiting?

Yes! The Yucatan is home to some of the most-visited regions in Mexico including Campeche, Yucatan, and Quintana Roo. 

The Yucatan Peninsula is worth visiting for all travelers that want to see breathtaking beaches, experience some of the best diving reefs in the world, and go swimming in a cenote. 

What is Yucatan best known for?

The Yucatan is best known for being home to cenotes, beautiful beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins. Many people also come here for snorkeling and scuba diving. 

Does Yucatan have nice beaches?

Since most tourists and travelers come to the Yucatan just for the beaches, you can be sure they are nice.

The best part about the beaches in Yucatan is they all have different things to offer. 

The beaches near Valladolid and Merida are much quieter compared to the beaches you’ll find in Quintana Roo State.

The beaches are not as well known so you can lay in the sand and go swimming without as many people around. 

What food is Yucatan known for?

Mexican food might be well-known all over the world, but some of the dishes unique to the Yucatan are not as famous. That doesn’t mean they aren’t worth trying though. 

Huevos Motulenos is the perfect breakfast dish with fried tortillas, eggs, red onion, bacon, cheese, refried beans, and spicy salsa. 

Make sure to also try Papaszules which are very similar to enchiladas. Other famous dishes include Sopa de Lima, Queso Relleno, and Dulce de Papaya.

Final Thoughts: Complete Yucatan Travel Guide

While there are many regions to visit in Mexico, coming to the Yucatan is one of the best places for experiencing Mexican culture. Home to amazing beaches, cenotes, and Mayan ruins; the Yucatan is a perfect destination for adventure seekers. 

The Yucatan is very large making it a great destination for road trippers or others who are planning to spend a few weeks in Mexico. 

No matter how much time you choose to spend in the Yucatan, you’re sure to have a vacation you’ll never forget. 

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Yucatán Travel Guide: Unconventional Things To Do in the Riviera Maya

Last updated on May 18, 2024 by Shannon

Jutting from the eastern edge of Mexico, the Yucatán Peninsula is a popular tourism gateway to Mexico. This region has an extensive tourism infrastructure, all spiraling outward from Cancún. Although Cancún has sticky connotations as a party destination for spring breakers—and it has an overpriced, glitzy hotel zone—the city is merely the starting point to one of my favorite regions in Mexico.

The Yucatán Peninsula is safe from the cartel violence associated with other Mexican States, and it’s home to some of the country’s richest history and most gorgeous landscapes (cenotes, anyone?!).

The area houses arguably the best preserved Maya ruins, internationally acclaimed dive and snorkeling sites, gorgeous Spanish colonial cities dripping in history, locally run cooperativos offering responsible tourism projects, and densely inhabited animal biosphere reserves.

Table of Contents

Why I Traveled the Yucatan

The Yucatán Peninsula is, in a word, wonderful. I’ve traveled this area several times, most recently with my two young nephews (10 and 11) for a month-long road trip around the Yucatán Peninsula . This is an overview of our route—combined with my knowledge from previous trips—and all the nitty-gritty details of things to do, places to stop, what to eat, and more.

Although you might change-up the activities if you’re a couple or solo traveler, the route is solid and would make a wonderful two- to three-week trip. Read on for the city guides and personal recommendations for this fascinating region of Mexico.

Fast Facts About Yucatan, Mexico Travel

Mexican peso (MXN) ( current exchange rate )

Electricity

127V/60Hz (American plug)

Primary Airports in the Yucatan

• Cancún (CUN)
• Cozumel (CZM)
• Mérida (MID)

How’s the internet in the Yucatan?

WiFi is rampant all over the Yucatan peninsula. It’s available at most guesthouses and cafes.

Can you drink the water in the Yucatan?

No, it’s not safe to drink the water. Drink bottled, use a reusable water bottle to refill at guesthouses, or use a SteriPen .

Mexico Visas for Americans

Visas for Americans—and most travelers—is pretty easy. Americans get a quick stamp in their passport valid for six months. Other nationalities can check the visa requirements here .

Food Considerations

Food standards are high in this area as tourism is the primary income for many. The water is not safe to drink, but bottled water is easy to come by. Street food can be scarce in touristy areas, but is tasty and delicious. If you decide to stick to budget and street food options, follow these food safety principles .

Local SIM Cards

Securing a local SIM card is a cinch and highly recommended for GPS and navigating. Telcel is likely your best option. If you have a U.S. T-Mobile account, it will do the trick too. Full SIM guide here —note that you will likely need to show your passport.

Accommodation

This is a cinch. I used a Lonely Planet guide when my nephews and I were in a pinch. While the links in city guides below go to a my preferred hotel booking site , many are also found on  VRBO , if you are member. It has a very established presence in this region of Mexico and is an easy way to book nice spots in a good area of town, while getting out of the hotel scene. I don’t use this as often when I am solo, so it was neat to have a reason to pick some great local apartments for my nephews and me.

For backpackers, the main hotel booking sites now usually list hostels, too (with no booking fees), or use Hostelworld ; in high season the bigger towns book up fast. Families should consider Booking.com .

And if you buy a local SIM (which you should), you can easily call ahead and directly reserve spots en route. If none of these will do, check out my detailed guide to finding good places to stay .

Festivals of Note

• Semana Santa (Easter)
• Cinco de Mayo (May)
• Day of the Dead (November)
• Festival of San Cristóbal (December)

How to Travel Around the Yucatan

The major roads are well-maintained and connect most any place you’ll need to go. In the center of the Yucatán, some of the cenotes are a bit further off the path and visiting them means winding through tiny towns and backroads. Otherwise, large and well-paved highways connect the major cities.

The Ado bus network is extensive and ideal for those on a budget. These buses are large, comfortable, and affordable. You can check routes and prices through Bookaway to figure out bus versus shuttle pricing.

Rental cars are easy to come by, though expensive to rent—they tack on huge fees and taxes to the offered price. Here is the lowdown on everything you need to know about renting a car in Mexico —I used RentalCars.com for my car and got about the best deal you can in Mexico.

World Travel Planning Resources

From the best travel gear to how to pick travel insurance—a detailed list of resources, tips, and advice to help you plan an amazing trip.

Is the Yucatan Peninsula safe for travelers?

The Yucatan Peninsula is one of the safest areas of Mexico, though that doesn’t mean its unequivocally safe. In general, the Yucatan is safe to travel—that’s why I chose to travel there with my two young nephews. 

Though large swaths of Mexico suffer from cartel violence and safety concerns, the Yucatán has a thriving tourism industry and it works hard to preserve it. There are cartels in the Yucatan, and they have impacted tourism at times— several times, in fact —but in general the major physical safety concerns you find elsewhere in Mexico are dramatically lower here.

And note that the small bribes of the sort that works elsewhere in Mexico are iffier here. Best to just drive the speed limit and follow the laws.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

History to Know Before Traveling to Mexico’s Yucatan

Maya history is a major draw for tourism. Stunning architecture and reliefs carved into the stone temples bring to life a fascinating, violent, and advanced ancient culture that managed to develop the only known pre-Columbian writing system in the Americas.

Much of the land in the Yucatán Peninsula was once the Maya lowlands. The Maya empire dates back as far as 2400 BC and spanned throughout present-day Guatemala, Honduras, and Southern Mexico.

Throughout the large sweep of land lies a vast network of massive temples and ancient cities; only a small part of the these ruins have been excavated, many still lie under the tangle of forest. 

Several famous Maya archaeological sites are within the Yucatán, Riviera Maya, and Chiapas regions, including Chichén Itzá and Tulum. Maya history is a major draw for tourism, with the stunning architecture of the temples and reliefs carved into the stone bringing to life a fascinating, violent, and advanced ancient culture that managed to develop the only known pre-Columbian writing system in the Americas.

Present day, the Yucatán’s unique limestone base gives the area one of its most famous draws: the beautiful sinkholes and underwater rivers. The Maya used these sinkholes, known as cenotes , for sacrificial offerings, but today they dot the entire region and offer travelers the chance to cool off in the crystal-blue waters. Because of this region’s limestone base, rivers are mostly underground and they connect a large network of caves and swimming spots.

The History Channel has a fuller history of the Yucatán detailed here , and more about the Maya civilization here .

Pre-Trip Reading Inspiration: Books About Mexico

Fiction and Nonfiction Books About Mexico

• The People’s Guide to Mexico : Even veteran Mexico travelers will enjoy this book. It’s like a guidebook, but even more. It’s hands-down the best guidebook you should use to understand the various regions, the cultural quirks, and all the reasons Mexico is a fantastic place to travel and live. It comes highly recommended by me, and by heaps of Amazon reviewers too.
• Sliced Iguana: Travels in Mexico : On my list for a while now and recommended by readers as an easy read that gives a light touch to all the history and culture she talks about while retelling her journey.
• Time Among the Maya : This is an in-depth longread about Maya culture, history backstory of the entire region. It’s likely something you want to read before leaving as it’s not a travel guide.
• The Maya Sites – Hidden Treasures of the  Rainforest : This book is the perfect road-trip companion for anyone exploring the Yucatan, but also Maya sites in Campeche, Chiapas, and into Guatemala. It’s not a straight-up travel guide, but rather a companion you can use for a history and overview of the temples as you explore, as well as personal recommendations from the author of his favorite parts of each Maya site.

Best Podcasts and Online Reads About Mexico

• Mexico: History and Resistance : A solid podcast that makes listening to the country’s history easy. Download this and prep for your Mexico trip by taking a trip through time.
• Mexico with kids : Good niche read with a lot of facts and information you might be wondering about family specific travel.

Find more regional fiction and nonfiction books and long-reads  and you can read all  my Mexico travel stories .

Recommended Guidebook

We used the Lonely Planet entire time and it was fun to let the kids read aloud the history of each section as we drove. Having a paper guidebook also allowed them to browse through and pick activities in the area. I recommend carrying a Lonely Planet for specific recs and routes and timetables.

Best Things to Do in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

As noted, I took a road trip of the Yucatan Peninsula with my two nephews, and it was an epic adventure filled with all of the best activities that the Yucatan offers. I have also traveled the entire region solo as a backpacker on a budget , and it’s just a lot of fun no matter how you go about it.

The city guides below combine my advice across several trips—I’ve spent a lot of time exploring all of the best things to do, so it’s broken down by activities in each city/region. I also highlight those places where I stayed with my nephews, meaning they are family-friendly options!

My Favorite Travel Experiences in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

• Wandering the charming cobblestone streets of Izamal.
• Feeding turtles at the Isla Mujeres turtle farm.
• Ziplining through Xplor Park in the Riviera Maya, near Playa del Carmen.
• Galloping down an old railroad track to the gorgeous cenotes in Cuzamá.
• Wandering the Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá and Ek Balam.

Things to Do in Cancun

Located on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, most trips will start in Cancun since it’s home to the main international airport in the Yucatan Peninsula. Cancun is also the easiest place to rent a car (I found a great deal for our road trip via RentalCars.com ), or arrange buses to explore the region.

That being said, unless you’re into the party scene, you will likely just want to get in and out of Cancun. There are far better cities and towns to do most anything that Cancun has to offer. Let’s assume you have to stay a few days in Cancun, however. Here’s what to do in the city, as well as how to use Cancun’s amenities to prepare for your Yucatan road trip.

Immerse yourself in the turquoise waters of Playa Delfines.

Cancun is best known for its gorgeous beaches. Start your beach experience at Playa Delfines, one of the most picturesque stretches of sand in the area. It offers pristine waters and stunning views. Bask in the sun, take a refreshing dip, or simply relax with a book while enjoying the gentle breeze.

This is a good family-friendly beach if you have time to pass in the city. We spent an afternoon splashing in the waves here. The beach was clean, clear, and relatively shallow. It features good ood parking, and the kids enjoyed it. Note, however, that the waves are too strong for very tiny kids to safely play in the water.

If you want a livelier atmosphere, Playa Tortugas or Playa Chac Mool both have vibrant beach scenes. There you’ll find beach clubs, water sports activities, and beachside restaurants and bars.

Spend a night out on the town.

Alongside its beaches, Cancun is probably most well known for its thriving nightlife scene. There is no shortage of bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues across the city. If this is your cup of tea, head to the Hotel Zone, where you’ll find a variety of lively nightclubs that host world-class DJs and offer a vibrant party atmosphere.

Alternatively, explore the downtown area to discover more intimate bars and lounges, where you can savor handcrafted cocktails and enjoy live music performances. Obviously this side of Cancun is not as kid-friendly. You can still enjoy the city at night as a family, but it’s more centered around good food.

Eat the streets in the Parque de las Palapas.

To make the most of your evening at Parque de las Palapas, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and embrace the vibrant ambiance that fills the park. My nephews just loved spending our evenings in this parque, which was just a three minute walk from our hostel.

As the sun sets, the park transforms into a bustling hub of activity. This was the first place that I sampled enticing street foods during my first visit to Mexico more than 15 years ago, and it’s where I always head each time I find myself in Cancun. This plaza features numerous stalls and vendors where you can indulge in mouthwatering tacos al pastor, crispy marquesitas, and flavorful esquites, while enjoying the live music.

Local cultural performances often take place here too, featuring traditional music, dance, and colorful costumes. It’s fun to find a comfortable spot to people-watch, observing the diverse crowd of locals and tourists who gather for leisurely walks and conversations.

Shop and eat at Mercado 28.

If you’re hungry for local food and a neat experience in Mexico, head to Mercado 28 (Market 28). Located in downtown Cancun, this bustling market is renowned for its diverse food stalls offering a wide variety of traditional Mexican street food. Mercado 28 is a vibrant hub where locals and tourists alike gather to savor authentic flavors and experience the lively atmosphere. You’ll find an array of street food vendors serving up delicious dishes such as tacos, quesadillas, tamales, elotes (grilled corn on the cob), tortas (Mexican sandwiches), and much more.

Stroll through the market’s maze-like corridors, where the aromas of sizzling meats, spices, and freshly baked goods fill the air. From the traditional to the adventurous, you’ll discover an abundance of food options to satisfy everyone in your group. Don’t forget to try local specialties like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), ceviche, and empanadas.

Mercado 28 also offers a great opportunity to interact with the friendly vendors who are passionate about their culinary creations. They are often happy to share their recommendations and provide insights into the flavors and ingredients of their dishes. And if you need to do some souvenir shopping, it’s also a great place to shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Mexican products.

Stock up at Walmart.

Not gonna lie, we stayed in Cancun so briefly. We used it as a base to stock up for our trip with a case of water, snacks, snorkel gear, hats, and then we hit the road out-of-town. If you’re planning to road trip the Yucatan, then stopping at Walmart is a no-brainer since you can fill the car with snacks, water, and anything else you need to make the road trip fun and easy!

Sleep somewhere central.

• Airport adjacent Airbnb : We stayed at this fantastic rental the night before our flight and it perfectly served our needs. It’s best if you have a car as it’s outside the city. The amenities make it amazing for families with kids. Since Airbnbs book up fast, consider using a VRBO as well.
• Hostel Ka’beh : Has a nice vibe, though a definite party backpacker atmosphere. I’ve stayed here several times over the years for a cheap bed and good company. It wasn’t great for families though. Cancun International Suites is a good midrange option located near the city centre. If you’re looking for a high-end hotel near the beach try Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites .

Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a great stop for singles, couples, or families. The island has beautiful beaches and a Turtle Farm doing amazing conservation work. If you’ve already rented a car, leave it at the docks in a secure garage (was a cinch to find) and take the ferry over. Book your ferry tickets online ahead of time. You can rent a golf cart on the island to easily get around.

Learn about the conservation work at the Turtle Farm (Tortugranja).

One of the clear highlights of our entire trip, my nephews raved about the Turtle Farm for weeks—it was one of their favorite things that we did while traveling the Yucatan. There are little turtles they can often touch, pools of turtles in varying stages, and a good message about conservation.

You can get a taxi out to it, or rent a golf cart or scooter for the day. They breed and release thousands of sea turtles, was great as a family, kids loved feeding turtles and seeing all the different colors and types.

Drive the island in a rented a golf cart.

Drive around the island for a day or two and explore some of the points on the opposite end of the island. Makes for a full day adventure if you bring swimming gear and plan to explore and have lunch at the expat/local spot in the center of the island.

Frolic in the waters of Playa Norte.

Playa Norte features incredible clear and shallow waters. This beach was a hit with my nephews and it’s the best beach for kids we saw on our entire Yucatan road trip . If you took my recommendation in Cancun then you should have your own pool noodles to float in the wide, shallow waters. Bring drinks and sand buckets for the kids and you’ll never want to leave.

Catch a good night’s sleep.

• Budget : Poc-na hostel : What a gorgeous spot and so much space. We didn’t stay here but our apartment was next door and I’d stay here if I was solo.
• Midrange : Apartamentos Trinchan : Include small kitchen and suites big enough for four people. Very comfortable and convenient spot on the island with a fantastic coffee shop next door. We called and booked our apartment.

Eat something tasty.

There is no shortage of tasty food on the island—these are the places that got our repeat business.

• Manana : Delicious guacamole and incredible fresh juices.
• WikiTravel : Lists out the best restaurants on the island.

Things to Do Around the Riviera Maya (Tulum, Cozumel, & More)

Though this stretch of beaches in the Yucatán is best known for huge, sprawling resorts, it’s popular for a reason—the beaches are gorgeous and there is a strong tourism infrastructure.

I recommend a few days here to visit some of the hotspots like swimming with turtles and amazing snorkeling. If you’re visiting for the party scene, Playa del Carmen has leapt onto that scene in recent years.

Head to a Yucatan-style theme park for the day.

The theme parks near Playa del Carmen are a perfect kid activity (or fun with a group of backpackers!). What makes them unique is how they incorporate many of the high points of the Yucatan Peninsula. Don’t expect roller coasters and a canned experience you could have anywhere—instead you’ll have a adventure-filled day of cenotes and jungle ziplining.

My nephews and I visited Xplor (review here)  and loved it. If we ever go back we’ll surely try out Xcaret or Xel Ha next time. All three parks have offer their own take and their own pace of experiencing the culture of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Dive off the coast of Cozumel.

Ferry over to Cozumel and dive at the best dive spots in the country. This island is the mecca for cruise ships, but for good reason. The snorkeling and diving is fantastic. My nephew still, years later, raves about the sheer number of fish he spotted on a random reef we stopped at just off of the coast.

Eat all the things on a food tour.

Consider a food tour of Cozumel or Playa del Carmen. Cozumel Chef has rave reviews for cooking classes and food tours in the area and would make a great outing.

Snorkel with turtles at Akumal.

On the way to Tulum, if you start early you can hit up this small beach community (about 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen). This used to be a fun, off-the-beaten-path activity that was low stress on you, the traveler, and on the turtles.

Now, organized tours arrive by 10am, and it’s a bit tougher to justify doing this as a responsible traveler. That said, if you decide to do it, arrive well before then to slip into the water and swim with the sea turtles .

Enjoy the seaside Maya ruins at Tulum.

Miles of white sandy beaches near Tulum make this a popular backpacking stop. We just came for the ruins, and they are very pretty and sunny—bring a hat! My nephews and I stayed for one night but decided we had enjoyed the gentler waters of Isla Mujeres better, so we moved inland.

Stop at the Coba ruins. 

If you have active kids this might be a better stop as you move inland as it’s impressive, less touristy, and you can bike to the ruins and then climb them for sweeping views of the jungly region.

Sleep somewhere nice.

• Playa del Carmen : We just loved Vainilla Bed and Breakfast . It’s in a non-touristy area with food and shops walkable, and a longer walk to the beach is possible. We had a rental car so it was nice to have a spot away from the hustle. Highly recommended, the woman who runs it is delightful and the homemade jams at breakfast were delicious.
• Tulum : We spent our time in Tulum at Hotel & Cabanas Zazil Kin and it was affordable and directly on the beach. You’ll have to splurge for A/C, but it’s an easy walk to the ruins and makes for a nice spot with kids. My nephews played in the sand right outside our bungalow door.

Things to Do in Valladolid

You’ll want to spend at least two nights here as there are several nearby cultural activities, and the town itself is beautiful. There is an old, historic charm to Valladolid and it’s very photogenic. There are also great places to eat and try a variety of Mexican foods.

Spend the day at Chichen Itza.

The major site for most travelers. It’s a large complex with a variety of Maya ruins. Make sure you either have a guide or eavesdrop on a guide at the ball court, as the explanation of the acoustics there is fascinating. This is a thorough online guide to the temples you can explore.

Soak in history at Ek ‘Balam.

Our favorite of the ruins in the area. Although Chichen Itza is the clear draw, Ek ‘Balam is far less touristy and you can climb to the top of the pyramid and see far over the jungle canopy. The site also has some gorgeous restored carvings that give a glimpse of what it might have been like at the height of the Maya empire.

Take a dip at Cenote Dzitnup. 

There are two cenotes in the Chichen Itza complex. Both are beautiful and a great way to cool off for the afternoon.

Admire the Catedral de San Gervasio.

Gorgeous cathedral on the main square that makes a nice backdrop to evenings spent in the plaza central.

Eat the street food.

In the main square of Valladolid, kitty-corner from the cathedral, is a cafeteria type area with tiny restaurants offering niche Mexican eats. We used this for both breakfast and dinner several times.

• Budget : La Candelaria Hostel comes highly recommended for backpackers. They don’t accept children so it’s not ideal for families.
• Vacation Rentals : Though we used a hotel because it had a pool and that was imperative for the kids, I’d easily pick a VRBO on a future trip.
• Midrange : La Aurora Hotel Colonial is a good midrange option.
• Splurge : If you’re looking for something more high-end try Hotel Posada San Juan .

Things to Do in Izamal

All of us agree, there’s something special about Izamal. If we had only used our guidebook, we might have skipped this tiny, sleepy, yellow Mexican town. But I turned to my friend  Wandering Earl for travel planning advice —he lived in the region for years—and he said this was a must-do.

Though we thought to spend just two days here, our hotel was great and the town was easy so we instead spent four days doing little more than playing with new Dutch friends and eating street eats in the central plaza. Plus it’s on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Mexico, so you know it’s going to be interesting.

Hike to the top of Kinich Kakmo Pyramid.

An easy walk in the town and it’s not too strenuous to get to the top and see the town laid out below. If you rent a horse carriage, this is one of the places they visit.

Explore the Izamal Monastery.

The Izamal Monastery (Colonial Franciscan Monastery of San Antonio de Padua) is fascinating, huge, and unique in the world. And, of course, it’s gorgeously yellow.

Wander the charming streets of Izamal.

Really we just walked the town with ice creams in hand and it occupied us for the day. We watched dogs splash in the fountain, we explored hidden nooks-and-crannies, and we generally just enjoyed the slow pace of life in this charming town.

Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through town.

My nephews pushed for a carriage ride. I was skeptical, but it turned out really cute and super fun for the kids. They loved hearing the horse hooves clop-clop-clop through the streets as we jostled along.

Even when we passed by places we had already seen on foot more than once, the horse and carriage made it all more fun as they pointed and laughed.

Eat the street food in the Mercado Municipal.

There aren’t a heap of places to eat in Izamal, but then there are a few street food carts every evening in the town’s central park. The boys lived for the pork sandwiches from the cart right in front of the monastery.

Eat early to ensure you eat at all.

Eat early as the town closes down early and you will be hungry if you wait too late. These are two good spots.

• Kinich El Sabor de Izamal . (Calle 27 #299, between Calles 28 & 30) A good range of Mexican dishes and we all enjoyed what we ordered.
• El Toro Restaurante . (Calle 33, between Calles 30 & 32) Close to the main square and makes a good spot for lunch or dinner.

Sleep somewhere great.

• Budget : We stayed at Hotel Macan Ché and it was thoroughly lovely; they have a very neat cenote-shaped pool where the boys lived for four days. If you’re there in the off-season you could try your luck without a reservation and likely get a slightly better rate.
• Midrange : Hotel San Miguel Arcangel is well located, right on the main square and looking out over the convent. It’s a good, basic but clean option that makes a good spot to explore.

Things to Do in Mérida, Cuzama & Celestún

As you head into this region of the Yucatán Peninsula, the pace tourism drops off a bit. Mérida is known for its language schools, but also for its stunning colonial streets and walkable city center. After leaving Izamal, we stopped at the cenotes of Cuzamá for an afternoon and it was fantastic—then we crashed in Mérida that night.

From Mérida, it’s an easy drive to one of the two biosphere reserves in the region. We opted for Celestún, which is a beach spot for Mexican vacationers more than tourists. The Celestún Biosphere Reserve is the real reason to come and one of the best things to do in the region—it’s home to thousands of mating flamingos. Alternatively, you could venture to Rio Lagartos to see the flamingos as well.

Pass an evening in the Plaza de la Independencia in Mérida.

The plaza at night is magical. The historic colonial streets make for pretty explorations, but for traveling with kids this plaza hums with life as the sun sets. My nephews were endlessly entertained with the vendors, the other kids, and the sweet treats.

Check out the Big Museum of the Maya World in Mérida.

This is a good place to tie together many of the themes and history from other parts of the trip. It has a wide range of activities and exhibits.

Take a horse-drawn cart to the three cenotes of Cuzamá.

Use the map at the top of the post to find Chunkanan, which is where the horse-drawn carts leave for the three cenotes . It’s about 10 minutes outside of the town of Cuzamá. Make sure you go all the way to the end of the road to the right  CBO (community-based org).

There is a different group that will try to flag you into their parking lot, but keep going so that you are spending your funds with a responsible local business fairly and ethically supporting the surrounding community.

Visit the Celestún Biosphere Reserve.

Hire a boat from the collective on the beach and speed through the ocean and into the wide river expanses. Wear a bathing suit as you’ll have the chance to take a dip in some clear blue waters.

Hotel Santa Maria in Mérida worked out perfectly. It was very affordable and close to everything. The rooms were basic but clean and had A/C. They also have a pool and free parking. I’d stay here again.

We stayed at Gutierrez Hotel & Restaurant in Celestún. This place is right on the beach and we enjoyed it. The restaurant attached is terrific, and I loved that I could sit in the shade while the boys dug in the dirt. We called and booked via telephone, but they are online.

This site has a long list of other kid-friendly activities in the region.

Onward travel

Having spent a number of months backpacking Central America and Mexico across multiple trips, plan your time in the following locations.

Mexico » Yucatan Peninsula | Yucatan with Kids | Oaxaca City | San Pancho | Guanajuato | Chichen Itza | Secret Mud Beach | Cultural Immersion | Taco History | Colonial Mexico

Guatemala » Antigua | Tikal | Rio Dulce | Xela | Chichicastenango | Learning Spanish | Semana Santa | Easter Traditions

Belize » Chetumal Border | Culture

Honduras » Copan Ruinas | Utila | Culture

Yucatan Travel Guide: Stories from the Blog

I have traveled the Yucatan Peninsula many times, sometimes solo, and sometimes with my family. Each story was written live on my travel blog as I backpacked the region. Within these posts you’ll find detailed guides and stories about cultural quirks, fun activities, and things I enjoyed doing in every area of the Yucatan.

A Little Adrift… Dispatch from Mexico: Oaxacan Life

A Little Adventure… 3 Weeks with 2 Kids on an Epic Yucatan Road Trip

A Little Photoessay… Snapshots & Stories from Colorful, Colonial Mexico

A Little Recipe… Inspired by Mexico: Lunchtime Bean Quesadilla

A Little Recipe… Inspired by Mexico: Simple Sweet Potato Tacos

A Little Guide … The Art of Travel Relaxation in Five Easy Steps

What is the Cost of Living in a Mexican Beach Town? (2024)

A Little Photoessay… Slice of Life Snapshots of Mexico

A Little Recipe… How to Make a Perfect Guacamole with 1 Avocad

A Little Curiosity… An Unexpected Afternoon with a Taco Stand Family

A Little Oasis… Fun and Friends on a Secret Mud Beach in Mexico

A Little Reflection… On Beach Days, Sunshine, and Childhood Reminiscences

A Little Food … The Anatomy (and History) of a Delicious Taco

A Little Musing… On Beach-Vibes in Mexico and How the U.S. Has Lost Its Sense of Community

A Little Musing… On the Art of Cultural Immersion in Travel

A Little Lesson… Eventually, We All Surrender to the Más o Menos

A Little Confusion… The Mexico to Belize Border Crossing at Chetumal

A Little History… Exploring the Chichén Itzá Maya Ruins

A Little Haiku… First Days in Mexico and an Ode to the Cold Shower

• Mexico City
• Copper Canyon
• Guadalajara
• Huasteca Potosina
• San Cristóbal de las Casas
• San Miguel de Allende
• 5-Day Mexico City Itinerary
• 10-Day Baja California Road Trip
• 10-Day Chiapas Road Trip
• 10-Day Copper Canyon by Train
• 10-Day Guanajuato Road Trip
• 10-Day Yucatan Road Trip
• 10-Day Oaxaca Road Trip
• Cozumel Island
• Isla Mujeres
• Holbox Island
• Playa del Carmen
• Punta Allen
• Puerto Escondido
• Hot Springs
• Mayan Ruins
• Mountains and Valleys
• Wildlife Experiences
• Best Mexican Foods
• Best Mexican Movies
• Best Books about Mexico
• Mexican Artists
• Mexico Fun Facts
• Mexico Historical Facts
• Mexican Holidays
• Day of the Dead in Mexico
• Pueblos Mágicos in Mexico

Yucatan Road Trip: My 10-Day Yucatan Itinerary [2024]

• by Nellie Huang

For an epic Yucatan road trip, here is a detailed 10-day Yucatan itinerary packed with outdoor adventures and cultural immersions.

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is a lot more than just all-inclusive resorts and wide sandy beaches — it’s dotted with gorgeous cenotes (underwater sinkholes), impressive ancient ruins and charming colonial towns. Since moving here, we’ve discovered that the region really has no shortage of archaeological ruins, historical colonial cities, and freshwater caves.

We chose to live here, for good reasons! I promise you’ll fall for the Yucatan, just as we did. To help you plan the perfect Yucatan road trip , I’ve put together this action-packed Yucatan itinerary that will show you the best beaches, colonial cities and ancient sites in just 10 days.

Table of Contents

How to Get to the Yucatan Peninsula

Mexico travel requirements , best time for a yucatan road trip, is this yucatan road trip safe, how much does a yucatan road trip cost, where to stay in valladolid, yucatan itinerary day 2: valladolid, swim in cenote zaci, visit convent of san bernardino, visit the stunning cenote suytun, explore ek balam , swim in cenote x’canche, float in cenote ik kil, visit the yellow city of izamal,  soak up mexican culture in merida, where to stay in merida, see the monumento a la patria, visit  the palacio de gobierno, explore the mayan world museum of merida, catch a pok ta pok mayan ball game, experience a shaman ritual in cenote sacamucuy, where to stay in tulum, visit  mystika tulum, swim in the gran cenote, extending your yucatan road trip, more travel tips for the yucatan:, further reading on mexico, yucatan  road trip guide.

The main gateway to Yucatan is Cancun International Airport (even though Cancun is not in the Yucatan state). Flying into Cancun from the US is really affordable. You can  fly from New York to Cancun  for as little as $300 return (4.5-hour flight).  Flights from Los Angeles to Cancun  are slightly more expensive around US$350 return (4.5-hour flight).

Book Flights to Cancun

Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane or ferry. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.

However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. It is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19.

Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my  travel insurance guide  for more details.

How to Get Around the Yucatan

For this Yucatan road trip, I recommend hiring a compact car. An economy rental car in Mexico averages just $200 for a whole week, which is less than $25 a day. The current price for gas is 16.50 pesos per liter (about $2.50 per gallon), though this varies throughout the country.

It’s generally easy to drive in Mexico, especially outside of the cities. I drive in Playa del Carmen everyday and find it quite easy: just watch out for portholes and crazy drivers! In this Yucatan itinerary, we cover roads that are in relatively good conditions. 

Check Car Rental Prices

If you don’t want to drive in Mexico, it is absolutely possible to follow this Yucatan itinerary by bus. Mexico has an extensive bus network and buses are really affordable. The buses are generally good quality and air-conditioned. The most popular bus company in the region is Grupo ADO. Book tickets online to ensure availability . Some offer luxury or de lujo services with lots of legroom, reclining seats, and TVs.

The best time to visit the Yucatan is during the dry season between December and April , when there is virtually no rain. Head to the Yucatan Peninsula at the start of the season (November to early December) when prices are lower. Read this guide on the best time to visit the Riviera Maya .

The wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October. The Caribbean coast can be affected by the hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Try to avoid public holiday as surcharges are common around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter.

 Yucatan is one of the safest places in Mexico for travelers . While petty crime is common here, it has one of the lowest rates of homicide in Mexico (10 times lower than the rest of the country).

Many travelers report that taking public transport around the peninsula is safe during the day. However, like the rest of Mexico, it’s advised not to travel around at night . Carjackings have been reported, most occurring at night or on desolate roads.

A common scam targeting visitors is money switching, particularly at gas stations. You may hand over a 500 peso note and the attendant swiftly changes it for a 50 peso note, insisting you need to pay more. Make sure when you hand over the correct amount, keep your eyes on them and don’t leave until you have the correct change.

Mexico is generally very affordable, but the Yucatan Peninsula is slightly more expensive than other parts of Mexico that receive less tourism. Budget travelers can survive on around US$40 – $50 per day.

My 10-Day Yucatan  Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Cancun
• Day 2: Valladolid
• Day 3: Day Trip to Ek Balam
• Day 4: Day Trip to Chichen Itza
• Days 5-7: Merida
• Day 8-10: Tulum

Yucatan Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in CANCUN

Begin your 2-week Mexico itinerary in Cancun. If you’re coming a long way here, then spend a few nights at a resort in Cancun and have some downtime. Check out our list of fun things to do in Cancun and where to stay in Cancun . But for those who don’t like lazing at an all-inclusive resort (like us), I recommend heading straight to Valladolid.

Calm and unpretentious Valladolid is one of the best kept secrets of the  Yucatan Peninsula . Despite being the closest town to  Chichen Itza, Valladolid is surprisingly quiet and laidback. It’s a 2-hour drive away from Cancun, on a new tolled highway.

Listed as one of Mexico’s  pueblo magico  (magical towns), Valladolid is lined with cobblestoned streets, pastel colored houses and old colonial buildings converted into art galleries or indie boutiques. It also has a large Mayan population — you’ll see plenty of locals walking around in traditional dress and lots of the restaurants serving typical Mayan dishes.

Budget: Casa Hipil

A lovely homely budget option, this place feels more like a guesthouse than a hotel and even has a lounge and communal kitchen. It’s warm and welcoming with clean and comfortable en suite rooms. Check rates here.

Midrange: Hotel Colonial Zaci

Located just one block from the main central square, Hotel Colonial Zaci is a graceful and elegant choice. Rooms feature dark wood furniture and beautifully-patterned tiles on the floor, but also feel modern and updated. There’s also a lovely central courtyard to relax in. Check rates here. 

Luxury: Le Muuch

One of the best and newest hotels in Valladolid, Le Muuch is full of charm and color. Open-air public spaces feel jungle-like with lots of plants and foliage. Individually-decorated rooms are themed around different precious stones and feature added touches such as a hammock, traditional cookies and local Mexican coffee. Check rates here.

Don’t be fooled by the small size of Valladolid. There are actually many things to do in Valladolid , from exploring archaeological sites to cenotes and charming colonial architecture.

One of the best things to do in Valladolid is to wander around town aimlessly. It’s such a pleasure strolling along the streets, admiring the pastel colored houses and wondering what surprise is in store around each corner.

The most photogenic street in Valladolid is the Calzada de los Frailes, which has been tastefully restored with indie boutiques, museums, and small cafes. Be sure to stop at  Idilio Folklore Cervecero , a stylish restaurant that offers a small museum and beer tasting sessions.

Valladolid is unique in the fact that it boasts a cenote right in the center of town: the Cenote Zaci . While beautiful and easy to get to, it’s not the most spectacular of the Cenote’s close to Valladolid. One of the best we visited was Cenote Saamal , a very deep cenote with a gorgeous tumbling waterfall. Just grab a taxi from the central square to get there.

In the evening, head out to the elegant San Bernardino Convent , where you’ll see video mapping and colored lights are projected onto the sides of the complex. The projections tell the story of Valladolid and its history in a beautiful and magical way. Check with the Tourist Information Office on the main square as to the days and timings.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 3:  Ek Balam

I’m a big fan of cenotes: they’re in essence natural sinkholes or caves that contain water. Cenotes were commonly used for water supplies by the ancient Maya, and occasionally for sacrificial offerings. Of all the cenotes I’ve been, my absolute favorite is   Cenote Suytun .

Yes, it’s risen to enormous fame thanks to Instagram, but it’s one of those rare few places that’s actually as magical as it appears in photos. I took the following photos with my iPhone (no filter!) and didn’t need any fancy photography equipment.

If you visit first thing in the morning (9am) like we did, you’ll avoid the crowd and be able to capture the famous sunbeam (provided it’s sunny). It’s only a 12-minute drive from Valladolid. Read my guide to visiting Cenote Suytun .

A 20-minute drive from Cenote Suytun is the spectacular and less-visited archaeological site, Ek Balam . It’s equally impressive but far less commercialised (you won’t find any vendors here!). Read my guide to Ek Balam ruins .

It’s also still possible to climb to the top of the pyramids. At 100 feet (29m) high,  the Acropolis  is the tallest structure in Ek Balam. A spectacular view awaits at the top: ancient pyramids poking above the tree canopy and lush green jungles for as far as the eye can see!

Midway to the top of the pyramids is the tomb of Ek Balam’s powerful ruler, Ukil-Kan-Lek-Tok, who reigned during the city’s peak in 800 A.D. The tomb is being restored, but you can see carvings, paintings, and murals.

Next to the archaeological site of Ek Balam is the wild and rugged Cenote X’canche .We absolutely loved the wild and atmospheric setting of this cenote. It’s surrounded by the jungle, with tree roots hanging over the spearmint blue water and rickety wooden bridges running along the sides of the cenote. There’s also a zipline over head, which our 6.5 year old daughter loved!

Best of all, it was actually empty when we visited on a Saturday afternoon, and we had the whole place to ourselves.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 4: Chichen Itza

One of the highlights for any first-time visitor to the Yucatan Peninsula is surely Chichen Itza , one of the country’s most celebrated Mayan archaeological sites. An important Mayan-Toltec city it spans a thousand years of history. Today, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , it ranks #1 on the best things to do in  Yucatan .

It’s only a 30-minute drive from Valladolid, but I recommend leaving early and reaching the site around 8am, before all the day-trippers arrive from Cancun. I also suggest hiring a guide, as there aren’t many plaques or information. Read my guide on how to get to Chichen Itza .

No trip to Chichen Itza is complete without a swim in the Cenote Ik Kil , a sinkhole that is connected to Chichen Itza by a raised pathway. It’s said that this large natural well may have given Chichen Itza (“Well of the Itzáes”) its name.

The use of the Sacred Cenote was exclusively ceremonial. Over the years, the water has yielded many artifacts including gold, jade, copper, shells and the bones of around 200 people who were thrown in as a sacrifice.

This cenote isn’t my favorite, as it’s the most commercialized that we visited (artificial stairways, lookout points and too many tour groups). But with an almost perfect circular opening and lush green vegetation dangling over the water, the cenote definitely has a stunning setting.

Cost: 150 Pesos ($7.50) per person

Yucatan Itinerary Day 5:  Merida

Start by strolling along the Paseo de Montejo, a tree-lined street flanked by the most beautiful buildings in Merida. Walk the whole length of 2 miles or 3.2km, and make stops at the numerous cute cafes and chic shops along the way. Read our full list of 30 best things to do in Merida .

Budget: Hotel & Hostal Boutique Casa Garza

A beautiful budget option for solo travelers, this centrally-located hostel has beautiful rooms with a garden, terrace and small pool. Check rates here.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 6:  Merida

Dating back to 1892, the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace) houses Yucatan state’s executive government offices and it’s open to the public. You’ll find murals and oil paintings by local artist Fernando Castro Pacheco, depicting the Yucatan Peninsula’s history.

A 20-minute drive from Merida is the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Mayan World Museum), which houses the largest collection of Mayan art and artifacts in the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s lauded as the best museum in Merida, so it’s worth a trip for art and history lovers. Note: it’s closed on Tuesdays.

Pok Ta Pok is an ancient Mayan game that was played thousands of years ago. The ball game was part of a sacred, sacrificial ceremony, pitting good against evil. The winner (yes, winner!) of the game was sacrificed, which was then the highest honor bestowed on a Mayan player.

On Friday nights at 8-9pm, the ancient sport is reenacted in front of Merida Cathedral – luckily though, sans sacrifice. It’s fun to watch and it gets pretty crazy towards the end, when the ball is literally ON FIRE, prompting faster passes, for sure.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 7:  Uxmal Day Trip

Yucatan Itinerary Day 8:  Drive to Tulum

Even so, the area near the beach hasn’t been overly built up and the jungle comes right down the sand. Beyond the beach, you’ll also find  cenotes (sinkholes filled with crystal clear waters), secluded lagoons, turtle reserves, and fascinating Mayan ruins that have been tumbled and shaped by time. Check out our list of best things to do in Tulum .

The town itself doesn’t have any particular attractions, but it’s great for tacos and vegan food. For lunch, there are some great places to dine in town. If you’re a vegetarian, I highly recommend La Hoja Verde , which offers lots of typical Mexican dishes with vegetarian alternatives. The other place I absolutely loved was Burrito Amor , who make their own deliciously spicy sauces.

Budget: Che Tulum Hostel

Situated in the center of Tulum Town, this may be a budget choice, but it still offers an outdoor pool and fun hip vibe. There are both private and dorm rooms available, as well as lockers and free wi-fi. They also rent bikes, so you can easily cycle to the beach. Check the rates here.

Midrange: Coco Hacienda

Sitting on the edge of town, the Coco Hacienda is a great option for those who don’t want to pay the high prices on the beach, but still enjoy being surrounded by nature. As it is located a bit out of the center, the hotel has a large tropical garden filled with palms and banana fronds. It’s built in a rustic colonial style and has two tranquil swimming pools. Check the rates here.

Luxury: The Beach

As the name suggests, this gorgeous eco-boutique hotel sits right on the beach and offers a boho-chic vibe with a rustic charm. The luxurious thatched cottages offer private plunge pools and hammocks, while the communal areas feature several pools hidden amongst the jungle foliage. There are also free yoga classes each morning. Check the rates here.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 9: Tulum Ruins

You can’t travel to Yucatan without visiting the Tulum Archeological Zone . The area is filled with Mayan ruins, which sit high above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, as well as numerous iguana and tropical flora. Remember to bring your bathing suit as there are a few lovely white sand beaches, which can only be accessed from the site.

After a busy day under the sun, head to the Gran Cenote , a gorgeous sinkhole filled with clear turquoise-colored waters, partly open to the sky and partly under an enchanting cave. Remember to bring a mask and snorkel with you (or rent one when you’re there) as a variety of fish and turtles live beneath the surface.

 Itinerary Day 10: Fly Home!

If you have some extra time before your flight, I recommend doing a day trip from Tulum checking out cenotes and wilderness reserves in the area. Some of my favorite cenotes include Car Wash Cenote, Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido . Each one is totally unique and beautiful in its own way.

• Buy a Mexican SIM card before you start this Yucatan road trip.  Having internet data will make it easier to navigate, do research on the go and contact hotels etc. You can get a Telmex SIM card from OXXO for less than $10.
• Pump your gas in advance, don’t wait until your gas tank is completely empty. We always use PEMEX (the petrol kiosk withe the best prices), as we’ve always found the staff to be reliable. They always pump it for you, though they expect a small tip.
• Try to avoid driving at night, as you won’t be able to see the speed bumps.
• That brings me to my next point —   you’ll find MANY speed bumps (topes) on the roads of Yucatan, including on the federal highway. Some of them are treacherous, so make sure you slow down when you see a sign that says ‘TOPE’.
• Don’t leave anything visible in your car, to avoid break-ins and theft. We always leave anything we have in the trunk.
• Parking is super easy anywhere in the Yucatan Peninsula . In the city centers, there are usually street parking (marked by white squares) and green parking meters for paying. You simply key in your license plate number and throw in a few coins (average cost is 10 pesos/hour). Once outside the center, parking is free.

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

• 35 Fun Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula
• 30 Cool Things to Do in Tulum
• 20 Best Day Trips from Tulum
• 30 Fun Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• 30 Best Things to Do in Merida
• 20 Cool Things to Do in Valladolid, Mexico
• My Guide to Isla Holbox Mexico
• 10-Day Oaxaca Road Trip Itinerary
• 10-Day Baja California Itinerary
• 10-Day Guanajuato Itinerary
• 10-Day Copper Canyon Itinerary

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15 thoughts on “Yucatan Road Trip: My 10-Day Yucatan Itinerary [2024]”

thanks for this trip plan! A few good ideas for me.

peeked at your WildJunket very quickly…and my first thought was:

The true voyage of discovery is not in going to new places, but in seeing with new eyes. – Marcel Proust

And this is coming from 80+ country traveler….most of recent travels – past decade, most places have been to countries I’ve already been to – but certain specific places.

Most unexplored place in the world…is looking back at you in the mirror….ever heard of a True Mirror?

anyway…like your photos of the Yucatan. 2nd trip to Yucatan next year…but will rent car, so not dependent on tours, buses, guides.

Thanks very much for the kinds words! Interesting stuff.. I need to go read up on True Mirror!

I think one thing to mention is that MERIDA is a HUGE CITY / area of 1.2 million people. which may come as a shock to anyone traveling in Yucatan. There is no other city larger than 100,000 people (Per wiki).

All your lodging choices (Look nice) are smack dab in the middle of the city…which I guess is ok if you arrive by bus or what not…but I’m not driving through that mess of streets in a car. Don’t use GPS – just printed maps (sometimes I print google maps out) and sense of direction.

Want to visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, but that’s on the fringe a little, on a major street. I think staying in Progreso is a better choice or Ixmal. Or for a visit to Uxmal, right near Uxmal in small towns.

You’ve added several days to my planned trip!

Ah yes.. Merida is a big city, but honestly the town center doesn’t feel that way. It feels rather quaint and small to me. We drove our car and stayed in the center of the historical city. The streets aren’t too messy or hectic to navigate and there’s not a lot of traffic. We parked the car at the hotel and mostly walked everywhere, but used to it to explore outside of the historic center like the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya and Uxmal. Progreso does look pretty laidback (I made a new friend who lives there) and we definitely want to visit someday!

ok..took a closer look…if one stays on the main drag or two, easy to avoid 99% of all other streets…so staying in the center is not as bad as I thought.

Also I see the sequential street numbering, so not hard to get around from that angle.

Progreso still looks more peaceful for the $! 🙂 We’ll see…

Hi! Your information about the Yucatan is awesome. Can one safely travel with small children?

hi Rachel, yes! We live in the Yucatan Peninsula (specifically Playa del Carmen) with our 7-year-old daughter and we feel safe traveling around the region with her. The area is great for kids because of all the outdoorsy activities available, like cenote-hopping, exploring Mayan ruins, and beach combing.

Hi Nellie, your 10-day road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula sounds great. I was curious how much downtime there is factored in. My wife and I are going on a 8/9 day trip at the end of November and I want to make sure we don’t end up rushing around too much. How would you adapt the trip to allow enough downtime? Any suggestions you can give would be much appreciated. Thanks, Phil

hi Phil, thanks for dropping in! Honestly, there’s not a lot of downtime factored in. If you want to allow for some downtime, I would suggest removing Uxmal from the itinerary (since you’ll be seeing Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Tulum ruins) and then spending the day relaxing in Merida or even going to Tulum earlier to chill on the beach. You can also skip the cenotes in Tulum since you’d have visited a few in Valladolid (which in my opinion are better there). Hope this helps!

Just wondering if it’s possible to do 5 days of all inclusive resort and 4 days of road trip. Do you know if I can book separately?

hi Cathy, oh it’s all up to you and what kind of travel you like. I personally don’t like all inclusive resorts but it’s easy to see why it appeals to so many people. You can definitely book it yourself and then hire a car to do the road trip yourself. If you need some ideas on where to stay, check out this Cancun article I’ve written. From there, you can do a short road trip to just Valladolid, Chichen Itza, and Cenote Suytun. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay on the coast, then you can head down to Tulum, see the Tulum ruins and explore the cenotes near there. I’ve written about all these destinations so feel free to search on my site.

Great itinerary! We have been to Mexico several times and done road trips. We felt that it was safe, and smooth sailing. I think I have been to all the places on your list! We love visiting cenotes, Mayan ruins, and places in the cities.

Hi Nellie, just want to thank you so much for all of the wonderful tips you have provided! We have 6 nights booked in Merida at an AirBnB, and another 7 nights in the Yucatan area. Your advice is helping me to plan a route and narrow down where we should stay for the later half of the trip. Thanks again from Canada.

Aww Kathie, thank you for the very kind comment! I’m so glad you’ve found my tips helpful! Have a great trip in the Yucatan Peninsula. 🙂

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Visit Yucatan Peninsula: Top 20 Things to Do and See

Things to do in yucatan peninsula: the 20 best places to visit.

Are you planning to visit Yucatan during your stay in Mexico ?

With its paradisiacal beaches, great archaeological sites, colonial cities, and breathtaking natural sites, it is a beautiful place to include in your vacation. You will undoubtedly have plenty to do during your stay!

To help you plan your perfect trip, I’ve prepared my guide of the 20 best things to do in Yucatan , the huge peninsula that includes the Mexican states of Yucatan , Quintana Roo and Campeche as well as parts of Belize and Guatemala.

You will find all of the places of interest listed below on the Mexican side of the peninsula, including all the practical information you need to plan your trip and my best advice to help you make the most of your holiday!

So, what are the best things to do in Yucatan Peninsula? Where to go?

Yucatan’s Top Tours: A Brief Overview

1. chichen itza, 2. cycling in coba, 3. swimming with turtles in akumal, 4. the protected island of contoy, 5. bioluminescence in holbox, 6. bathing in a mayan cenote, 7. party in cancun, 8. the colorful streets of merida, 9. enjoying one of the best beaches in the world on isla mujeres, 10. playa del carmen, 11. visit the city of valladolid, 12. the seabed of cozumel, 13. treat yourself to a yoga session in tulum, 14. catamaran in bacalar, 15. water adventure in an ecotourism park, 16. explore calakmul like indiana jones, 17. watching the flamingos in celestun, 18. the yellow city of izamal, 19. discover puerto morelos, 20. the pink lake of las coloradas, how to get to yucatan, by colectivo, by rental car, practical map of the yucatan, when to go to yucatan, how safe is the yucatan peninsula, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

The Yucatan Peninsula has a variety of tours, and selecting the best one for you can be challenging.

Don’t worry, I can assist you with a brief overview of the top tours . Just tap on the activity name you like to book it!

Visiting Yucatan Peninsula: The Must-Sees

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven new wonders of the world, the Mayan city of Chichén Itzá is an exceptional site to visit in Yucatan.

El Castillo, or the Great Pyramid, is at the center of this incredible site. It is 24 meters high, and at the top sits a small temple with a stone throne.

Not to be forgotten is the Tzompantli , the Temple of the Warriors, featuring one thousand giant columns, a gigantic Mesoamerican ballgame court, and an astronomical observatory called El Caracol .

While you’re visiting Chichén Itzá, make sure to see Cenote Ik Kil , one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico !

• Also worth reading: How to Visit Chichen Itza + My best tips!

Chichén Itzá is one of the most popular tourist sites in Yucatan . Many buses full of travelers often arrive at the same time and form long queues. Don’t waste your time waiting in line!

Book your tickets to visit Chichen Itza in advance here:

I’m buying my queue-free ticket to Chichén Itzá! I am skipping the lines by booking my Chichén Itzá ticket now

There are many ways to visit  Chichen Itza :

• By Bus : A bus ride will take you 3 hours from Cancun , 3 hours and 45 minutes from Playa del Carmen , 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tulum , and 1 hour and 50 minutes from Mérida. The bus drops you off right at the entrance of the site.
• By Car : From Cancun, you just have to follow the 180D, but you will have to take into account the tolls (about 700 pesos roundtrip) and the parking fee (80 pesos).
• By Excursion : I recommend booking this excursion to Chichén Itzá that includes pick-up from your hotel, the visit to Chichén Itza and Cenote Ik Kil , a buffet lunch, and free time in Valladolid .  

Coba was once a powerful Mayan city and a great rival to Chichén Itzá . At its peak, it is estimated that it covered 80 square kilometers and was home to some fifty thousand inhabitants—quite impressive for its time! This beautiful city hidden within the jungle is a must-see site in Yucatan.

You can visit Coba on foot, but I highly recommend visiting by bike ! It is much more pleasant experience and also makes it easier to move between the different structures.

The main attraction is the Nohoch Mul. Standing at 42 meters, it is the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula after Calakmul . There are also three magnificent cenotes in Coba : Tamcach Ha (or Tankach-Ha), Multun Ha, and Choo-Ha. The only way to get there from the archaeological site if you don’t have a car is by bike!  

To Visit Coba:

• Entrance: 100 pesos
• Parking: 60 pesos
• Bicycle: 60 pesos
• Bicitaxi (tricycle taxi) with Driver: Starts around 140 pesos
• Getting to Coba : The site is on Route 180 between Tulum (45 minutes away) and Valladolid (55 minutes away).

For increased convenience and comfort, I suggest taking a day trip and arranging for pick-up at your hotel in the Riviera Maya .

This will include transportation from the Riviera Maya, a visit to Coba , a traditional lunch , swimming in two cenotes , a guided tour of the Tulum ruins, and free time in Tulum! Book your excursion here:

I’m booking the Coba and Tulum tour with a traditional Mayan lunch! I can easily reserve my place for the Coba tour

Akumal is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Yucatan Peninsula spread over several bays: to the north are Media Luna and Yal-Ku , and to the south are Akumal Bay and Aventuras Akumal.

The most popular tourist areas are the beaches in the south, as they are home to three unique species of turtles and manta rays all year round.

The main reason people flock to Akumal is to swim with the turtles !

As soon as you arrive, you will be told that a life jacket and guide are required, but this is not true . You will have to pay for entrance to the beach (100 pesos), but the rest is optional.

However, in order to see as many turtles as possible , I recommend going to the protected area.

You must go with a guide who knows the best spots and will make sure that the turtles are not stressed by the presence of swimmers. They can show you how to be respectful of your distance and how to treat the wildlife appropriately.

I would suggest this snorkeling trip in Akumal (featuring turtles, fish, and coral) that includes pick-up at your hotel , and they will then take you to explore a cave and swim in a cenote !

You can easily book this excursion here :

I’m booking my snorkel with turtles tour now! I want to responsibly swim with the turtles

Other Things to See and Do in Akumal:

• Visit the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary , a jungle wildlife refuge with monkeys, snakes, toucans, parrots, and more. It’s best to boo k in advance to get up to a 20% discount.
• Snorkel at Yal-Ku, a shallow lagoon (1-3 meters deep) protected from the waves with lots of exotic fish! Book your tickets for Yal-Ku Eco-Park here
• Explore the Aktun Chen Caves, where you can zip-line through the forest under the watchful eye of monkeys, visit a 5-million-year-old underground cave, and swim in its cenote.
• Snorkel in the shallow waters of Yal-Ku, Las Redes, Arrecife de Dick, and Arrecife Motocicleta.
• Go diving in the deep waters of Tzimin-Ha, Xaak, or Gonzalo Reef.
• Relax in Xcacel and Chemuyil , two heavenly white sand beaches just 10 minutes south of Akumal.

Don’t miss my list of the Top 17 Things to Do in Akumal !

Off the coast of Cancun is Isla Contoy , a small 9-kilometer-long island paradise in Yucatan.

This protected area is an important refuge for many birds (there are 152 species of migratory birds here!) and a nesting place for turtles.

In order to protect its biodiversity, visiting via a tour is mandatory, and access is limited to only 200 visitors per day .

The tour to Contoy usually departs from Cancun around 10 am.

The boat first stops at a snorkeling spot before arriving at Contoy (a 1-hour trip).

Once there, you have the choice to follow the guide for a tour of Contoy (30 minutes) or go directly to the beach.

After enjoying some free time on the island, you will be served a traditional Yucatan meal : Tikin Xic fish.

On the way back to Cancun, you will have the chance to explore freely during a stop at Isla Mujeres (1 hour and 15 minutes). This is a great opportunity to see the famous Playa Norte !

You can easily book the excursion to Contoy with all above activities and lunch included here:

I’m booking my Contoy tour now! I want to visit Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres in Mexico

• Also check out my full article on the tour to Isla Contoy ! 

Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon that occurs in many places around the world. Certain living organisms emit light from their bodies, providing a beautiful nighttime spectacle in an almost fairy-tale-like atmosphere.

From July to January , Holbox is one of the most beautiful places to see bioluminescence in the Yucatan, especially on the beach of Punta Cocos . Holbox is one of the most beautiful islands in Mexico and has much to offer. I recommend staying at least two days to enjoy its splendor!

Things to Do in Holbox:

• Discover its colorful street art
• Enjoy the sandy beach and stay in one of the small hotels on the island
• Explore the wild beaches away from the tourists at Punta Mosquitos
• Take a boat trip to Isla Pajaros, Ojo de Agua Yalahau,  and Isla de la Pasion  
• Going for a ride to go snorkeling at Cabo Catoche
• Swim with whale sharks near the Yum Balam Reserve

Apart from the incredible bioluminescence phenomenon, Holbox is a beautiful island to visit all year round, whether it’s for one, two, or three days. You can also check out my article Visit Holbox: 10 Best Things to Do and See!

If you are short on time during your visit, I suggest booking this tour  to Ho lbox from Cancun that includes pick-up from your Riviera Maya hotel.

It’s a full-day trip that includes lunch, a boat trip to Isla Pajaros , Isla Pasion , and Yalahau Lagoon,  and free time in Holbox to give you a chance to enjoy its long sandy beaches!

You can book the excursion here:

I’m booking the Holbox tour now! I can easily reserve my spot to visit Holbox from Cancun

Cenotes are natural wells that were sacred in Mayan times.

Sometimes outside and easily accessible, sometimes well hidden in caves, many cenotes have become very touristy while others remain barely known.

Visiting a cenote is the perfect opportunity to swim in cool water, snorkel, and dive.

For just swimming (and taking nice pictures), I recommend Cenote Samula in a cave near Valladolid . In the same park is the C enote Xkeken , which is also worth seeing!

If you like diving , you will find your happiness at Chac Mool near Playa del Carmen or near Tulum at the Dos Ojos , El Pit , Angelita, and Carwash cenotes.

Cenotes perfect for family fun include both Cenote Azul in Playa del Carmen or Gran Cenote in Tulum.

And these are just a few examples. There is no shortage of options, as it is estimated that there could be as many as ten thousand cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula!

• To learn more about specific cenotes, I recommend reading my article The 20 Most Beautiful Cenotes to See in Yucatan!

My advice Most cenotes only accept cash , so be prepared. I also recommend bringing a quashoes (water shoes) to wear at the cenote, as there are always slippery rocks and they will help keep you safe!

What has made Cancún one of the best tourist destinations in Yucatan is its all-inclusive hotels facing the stunning Caribbean Sea that are also close to its vibrant nightlife .

Cancun is a famous Spring Break destination in March and is home to other major events such as the Wine and Food Festival and the Jazz Festival .

There is no shortage of places to party in Cancún: the Mandala , the City Nightclub (the largest nightclub in the country), or the mythical Coco Bongo are just a few options . You can buy your tickets to Coco Bongo here:

I book my tickets for Coco Bongo Cancun now! I want to go to the Coco Bongo

You can also simply head to the “Party Zone” or “Party Center,” a street corner on Kukulcan Boulevard with several bars and clubs.

• For something completely different, Xoximilco Cancún is a Mexican-themed theme park with mariachis, colorful trajinera boat rides, traditional Mexican food, and an open bar (beer and tequila). Book here:

I’m booking the Mexican night at Xoximilco Cancun now! I can easily book my Xoximilco Cancún trip

Things to Do and See in Cancun:

• The archaeological sites of El Rey, El Meco, and the Temple of the Scorpion (Yamil Lu’um)
• The Mayan Museum dedicated to Mayan culture
• Buy souvenirs at the Mercado 28
• The Torre Escenica that offers a panoramic view of the city and the sea from a height of 110 meters
• Snorkel or dive at MUSA (Cancun Underwater Museum). You can book the tour here!  
• Enjoy the many beaches of Cancún, such as Playa Tortugas (for a festive environment), Los Delfines, Playa Langosta, Playa Linda, Playa Caracol, and Playa Marlin
• Explore Rio Secreto, an incredible underground network of rivers and caves to discover. Book here with lunch included!
• Isla Blanca Beach, located at the tip of Cancun between the Chacmuchuc Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. Besides being the most beautiful beach in Cancún , it’s a good kitesurfing spot as well!

You can also check out my articles:

• Where to stay in Cancun? The guide to the best hotels and resorts, for all budgets
• Cancun : the 35 Best Things to Discover
• 1 Day in Cancun   – The Perfect 24h itinerary
• 2 Days in Cancun  – How to make the most of your week-end in Cancun
• 3 Days in Cancun –  What to See, Do and Eat

Mérida is a beautiful colonial city reputed to be the safest city in Mexico . It is the capital of the state of Yucatan and stands out for its rich architectural heritage, wealth of museums, and colorful houses.

There is a lot to see and do in Merida , including:

• The Plaza Grande, the main square, with the Montejo House, the cathedral, the Macay Museum, the Passage of the Revolution, and the Government Palace
• The Palacio Canton , a magnificent building that houses the Regional Museum of Anthropology of the Yucatan
• Attend the serenata yucateca at Parque Santa Lucia (Thursday at 9 pm) to hear beautiful Yucatan folk music
• Discover Mexican culture at the colorful Museum of Popular Art
• Admire the captivating facades of Mérida’s houses, especially on Calle 64
• Visit the enormous Mayan World Museum with its one thousand archaeological pieces
• Take a trip to the market and participate in a typical Yucatan cooking class. Book here!
• Take the guided bus tour, called a “guagua, ” to discover the must-sees and the non-touristy areas

A great starting point is to visit the Ruta Puuc, as it links ancient Mayan cities sharing the same architectural style, the main ones being Uxmal , Kabah , and Sayil .

• To find out more about this vivid city and its surroundings, check out my complete guide to Mérida!

Isla Mujeres is an island off the coast of Cancun known for its colorful houses and long sandy beaches.

Among them, Playa Norte is considered to be in the TOP TEN best beaches in the world!

It is an ideal place to swim in crystal clear water and watch a breathtaking sunset.

Isla Mujeres is also a fantastic destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, as it is close to the second largest reef in the world .  

To get to Isla Mujeres, you have to take a ferry from Cancún (Puerto Juarez). The seats on the ferry are very limited, so I strongly recommend you book it as soon as possible!

To book your roundtrip ferry ticket to Isla Mujeres (return ticket valid for 6 months after your outbound date), click here:

I’m booking the ferry to Isla Mujeres now! I can easily buy my Isla Mujeres ferry tickets

It is also possible to take an excursion to Isla Mujeres by catamaran from Cancun that includes diving, free time on the beach, drinks, and lunch. A full-day, all-inclusive excursion! Book here:

• To find out more about this beautiful island, here is My Guide to the 21 Best Things to do in Isla Mujeres!

One might be tempted to think that Playa del Carmen is just a “little Cancún,” but it is a fabulous destination of its own!

They are both resorts that attract families and couples alike, but Cancún is primarily focused on young, party-oriented tourists like the spring breakers .

In my opinion, Playa del Carmen offers the best of both worlds .

On the one hand, it’s a small and dynamic city with many restaurants, beach clubs, bars and clubs, including the famous Coco Bongo.

On the other hand, Playa del Carmen is much smaller than Cancún, very walkable , and offers a wider variety of hotels than just the big all-inclusive resorts.

Some would say its biggest advantage is Playa del Carmen’s ideal location between several of Yucatan’s most important places of interest .

In fact, it is located at the intersection of two major highways, making it easy to get around the Riviera Maya or return to the interior of the peninsula.

What to See and Do in Playa del Carmen:

• La Quinta Avenida , the main street of Playa del Carmen, is always very lively with many shops, restaurants, and bars.
• Parque los Fundadores , where traditional Mayan dance performances are held
• The beaches of Playa del Carmen : Playa Paamul, Playa Paraiso, Playa Tukan, and Playa Mamitas. I personally prefer Playa Xcalacoco (a 15 minute drive away), which is quieter.
• The Museum of 3D Wonders is an amazing museum with fifty three-dimensional paintings—the perfect place to take pictures! Website
• The cenotes near Playa del Carmen like the Cenote Azul , Cenote Cristalino, Jardin del Eden , Tajma-há, and Chaak Tun
• Xplor Park, an adventure park in the jungle with caves and underground rivers. My favorite! Buy the XP all-inclusive pass now !
• Xcaret, one of the most popular places in the Riviera Maya, is a large ecological park with an aquarium, an underground river, a Mayan village, and many activities to do. Buy your tickets here!
• Playacar is a chic resort known for its beautiful beaches, golf course, and the ruins of Xaman-Ha from the 16th century. It’s a great spot for kitesurfing!

For more information, check out:

• Playa del Carmen : Top 30 Things to Do and See!
• 1 day in Playa del Carmen   – the best 24h itinerary
• 2 days in Playa del Carmen  – An Epic Itinerary
• 3 days in Playa del Carmen – What to Do, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay
• Playa del Carmen on a Budget : All My Best Tips + Free Things to Do
• Playa del Carmen Hotel Guide – Top Stays for All Budgets

A small town with colonial charm, Valladolid is a must-see on any Yucatan trip itinerary.

It is an obligatory stop between the east coast of Yucatan Peninsula (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum , Sian Ka’an) and Chichén Itzá , Rio Lagartos, Ek Balam , Izamal , Mérida , and Campeche .

Here are some things not to be missed in Valladolid :

• San Bernardino de Siena Convent , also known as Sisal Convent, which is considered one of the most beautiful monasteries in Yucatan .
• Parque Francisco Canton Rosado, the main square where you can find the San Servacio Church and several Mexican street food stalls
• Calle 41A, or Calzada de los Frailes , is undoubtedly the best photo spot in Valladolid with its colorful houses!
• The Choco Story Museum , a high-quality dynamic museum centered on the history of chocolate and its importance for the Mayas. Perfect for the whole family!
• La Casa de los Venados , a private museum just off the main square with a great collection of Mexican folk art
• Valladolid’s cenotes are among the most beautiful in the Yucatan: Xkeken (also called Dzitnup), Samula, Zaci, Suytun, and San Lorenzo Oxman. 

For more information about all the attractions and my practical tips, here is my guide to the 25 best things to do and see in Valladolid !

A large island in the Caribbean surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, Cozumel is a must-see destination in the Yucatan, especially for avid snorkelers and divers !

There are many exciting things to see and do in Cozumel :

• Chankanaab National Park, where you can zip-line, see its garden (home to 350 species of plants), and most importantly, snorkel and dive. Buy your tickets here!
• The archaeological site of San Gervasio, where the sanctuary of Ixchel, goddess of fertility, is located
• Enjoy beautiful beaches like Playa San Francisco, Playa Encantada, Playa San Juan (perfect for children), Playa Hernan, Playa Santa Maria, and Playa Palancar.
• Playa Palancar is my favorite, as it is the most pristine and is close to the two most important reefs in Cozumel : Colombia and Palancar. It’s perfect for snorkeling and diving!
• Take a jeep tour to Punta Sur (click here to book!) , the largest ecological reserve in Cozumel. It takes you to Colombia Lagoon, and the Punta Celarain lighthouse, with snorkeling, tequila tasting, and lunch in a beach club!
• Catamaran trip to El Cielo to see the starfish with a stop at the Palancar Reef. Book it here!    
• Swim at Chen Rio , a natural pool with calm waters between the rocks.
• Playa Mia Grand Beach Park, on a large deserted beach, has many activities suitable for the whole family.
• Kitesurfing at Laguna Ciega near Isla de la Pasion
• Discover Mayan astronomical knowledge at the Cha’an Ka’an Planetarium.
• Take a ride in the Atlantis submarine to see the underwater biodiversity at a depth of 30 meters. Book it here !
• Visit the Pueblo del Maiz , a reproduction of a pre-Hispanic village, with live dancing and music.

To learn more about this beautiful island, read my article Top 15 Must-Sees in Cozumel !

The absolute best way to enjoy Cozumel is to take a snorkeling tour . I recommend this tour that takes you snorkeling near three different reefs—and all the equipment you need is included!

Water and soft drinks are available on the boat, and beers are included after the snorkeling.

On the way back to Cozumel, you can enjoy the luxury of the El Cid de la Ceiba Hotel and have a couple of drinks!

I’m booking the snorkeling tour in Cozumel now! I can easily book my snorkeling excursion

Tulum is a small town with a bohemian chic atmosphere and is a very trendy destination at the moment! Travelers come here from near and far to relax on its long sandy beaches and visit the ruins of Tulum.

But most notably, Tulum is also the most important yoga and relaxation destination in Yucatan .

There are several studios that offer classes for all levels and many hotels that offer yoga. Tulum is also a shopper’s paradise with many trendy shops mainly located on the Beach Strip next to the beach. And what about its fine sandy beaches and its numerous cenotes? All in all, it’s an unforgettable destination!

• To learn all the best things to do in Tulum , here are some of my tips: My Ultimate Guide to Tulum!

In the south of Yucatan, on the border with Belize, are the Bacalar Islands, a beautiful, idyllic destination on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Despite its popularity, Bacalar somehow still escapes mass tourism. The main reason people come here is to enjoy the large 7 Colors Lagoon with its cenotes , the Pirates’ Channel, and the Bacalar Rapids . To enjoy the turquoise waters of Bacalar, you can take a small group catamaran trip to the Cenote Negro, the Bird Island, and the Pirates’ Channel that includes snorkeling and fruit served onboard.

A dream excursion! Book it by clicking here :

I’m booking this catamaran trip on the lagoon now ! I can easily book my catamaran trip to Bacalar

My advice There are no beaches in Bacalar; instead, there are “ balnearios ” that allow access to the lagoon for swimming and snorkeling.

For more information about the best balnearios and all the activities to do in Bacalar , see my Ultimate Guide to Bacalar !

There are several beautiful ecotourist parks in Yucatan, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of them. Here are some of the best:

• Xel-Ha is a large water park with a river, lakes, and caves to explore on foot, by bike, snorkeling, and even zip-lining! Ideal for spending a fun day with the family. Book here.
• Xcaret is similar but features more attractions related to Mexican culture, including the incredible Xcaret Mexico Espectacular show. Buy tickets here !
• Xplor Park offers many activities such as water slides, suspension bridges and zip lines, exploration in amphibious vehicles, and rafting in flooded caves. Buy the Xplor Park all-inclusive pass now !
• Rio Secreto is an incredible underground passage formed by a river and houses several caves to discover on foot, by swimming, by bike, and by abseiling. A must-see place in Yucatan and a real change of scenery! Book here.

The Yucatan is full of beautiful Mayan sites, and my absolute favorite among them is Calakmul .

It is a Mayan city hidden in a jungle that has been declared a Biosphere Reserve , making it the second largest green lung in North America!

Calakmul was one of the most powerful cities of the Mayan world , much like Palenque in Chiapas or Tikal in Guatemala .

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a fantastic location that surprisingly receives very few tourists .

And unlike other similar sites in Mexico, here you can climb freely on the different structures and pyramids!

In Calakmul, you can feel like a real adventurer!

What to See in Calakmul:

• Chan Chi’ich , the residential area
• Chii’k Naab,  a gathering place for celebrations
• The Great Acropolis that is divided into two areas, one semi-public and one private, where the entire Calakmul elite resided
• The Great Square , the central square of the city
• Structure II , the largest pyramid on the site (50 meters tall) and one of the most important pyramids in the Mayan world
• Structure I, the second largest pyramid on the site (40 meters tall) that offers an impressive view
• The Small Acropolis and Structure III , each of which is smaller but equally fascinating

To find out more about this great site, its attractions, and how to get there, visit my article How to Visit the Maya City of Calakmul !

My advice You can visit the site freely and choose one of the three possible itineraries (2 hours, 3 hours, or 4-5 hours) by following the signs that indicate the way.

If you would like the services of a guide, you will have to indicate your preference at the entrance of the reserve before arriving at Calakmul.

. You can book the excursion to Calakmul from Campeche with pick-up from your hotel by clicking here :

I’m booking the tour to Calakmul now! I want to explore Calakmul easily

The Celestun Biosphere Reserve is a large protected area known for being home to three hundred different species of birds, including thousands of flamingos during the winter (November to April).

This is probably the best place to see flamingos in Mexico! In addition, the flamingos that reside here are an intense pink color due to the concentration of carotene in the water.  

To visit the reserve, you must first go to Celestun , a fishing village facing the Gulf of Mexico. Then head to the Turistico Celestun pier to take a small boat to get to the reserve (a 1 hour and 30 minute guided tour).

I highly recommend this excursion to Celestun from Mérida with roundtrip transportation from your hotel, a guided tour of the reserve, a boat ride, and lunch on the beach. Book here:

I’m booking the Celestun reserve tour now! I want to see the flamingos of Celestun

• For more information, please visit my Complete Guide to See the Pink Flamingos of Celestun !

Izamal is a small colonial town in Yucatan doubly nicknamed “The Yellow City” because of its ochre-colored buildings and “The City of Hills” for its many pyramids.

This is a destination with a lot of charm, many handicraft workshops, and a characteristic golden color that promises great photos !

Things to See and Do in Izamal :

• Visit the imposing ocher-colored convent of St. Anthony of Padua . At 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, there is a sound and light show that highlights Mayan culture.
• Visit the market to taste local specialties such as panuchos or salbutes.
• Admire the view from atop the Kinich Kakmo Pyramid , the tallest in Izamal! There are also other pyramids to see, such as Itzamatul . Both are free!

My advice To learn more about this eye-catching yellow colonial town, here is my article of the 11 Best Things to Do in Izamal !

Located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen , Puerto Morelos is simply a must-see on a Yucatan vacation due to its incredible seaside charm.

It’s a small quiet fishing town where you can spend a perfect day exploring its beautiful coral reef and eating freshly caught seafood!

Not to Be Missed in Puerto Morelos:

• Puerto Morelos Reef National Park, where you can kayak, windsurf, dive, and snorkel to see hundreds of colorful kinds of coral and fish
• The Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marin Botanical Garden, a large protected area where you can see monkeys, coatis, and many plants, not to mention its suspension bridge and ancient Mayan site
• Enjoy the beaches of Puerto Morelos with their tranquil waters suitable for families with children and water sports enthusiasts (eg, windsurfing).
• Dive to the C-56 Juan Escutia , a warship 25 meters underwater. It is even possible to enter certain sections of the vessel, such as the engine room.
• Explore the cenotes hidden in the jungle such as La Noria or Verde Lucero.
• Visit the Artisan Market to support the local economy.
• Selvatica Park, recognized as the best adventure park in Latin America and one of the 35 best adventures in the world by Travel + Leisure magazine . Buy your tickets here!

You can also read my Complete Guide with 13 Things to Do in Puerto Morelos !

In the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve , between the states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo, lies one of the most photogenic places on the Yucatan Peninsula: Las Coloradas!

The region’s salt deposits that give the water its unique pink hue.

For photography enthusiasts, a visit to Las Coloradas is a golden opportunity to take beautiful pictures.

From January to September (and especially April, May, and June), you can also witness an additional spectacle: the gathering of the largest population of flamingos in Mexico to breed!

My advice However, it is important to note and understand that Las Coloradas is owned by a salt extraction company that empties the salt twice a year.

The intensity of the color depends on the concentration of salt in the water, and the extraction is not always done at the same time each year.

Thus, it is difficult to guarantee that the water will be an intense pink when you visit Las Coloradas, but it is a worthwhile adventure nonetheless!

Between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m., the pink color is always more intense.

How to Visit Las Coloradas:

• By Car : You must first go through Tizimin, which is 1 hour from Las Coloradas (Highway 295), 2 hours and 15 minutes from Cancún and Playa del Carmen , 2 hours from Mérida, or 1 hour and 30 minutes from Valladolid.
• By Bus : Take a bus to Tizimin (an ADO Oriente bus), then a taxi or colectivo to Las Coloradas.
• Take an Excursion to Las Coloradas : I recommend this tour with air-conditioned transportation from your hotel, a visit to Cenote Hubiku , a boat trip to Las Coloradas , and lunch included. To book, click here :

I ‘m booking my Las Coloradas tour now! I'm booking a Las Coloradas + Cenote Hubiku excursion

My advice It is also possible to go to Las Coloradas from El Cuyo , a small fishing village that is not very touristy but has beautiful beaches.

I invite you to read My Ultimate Guide to El Cuyo to learn all about this little hidden paradise!

You first have to fly to Cancún (via Iberia, Aeromexico, Interjet, KLM, Air Europa, etc.), as that is the international airport of the Yucatan . There are also several domestic airports in Yucatan in Mérida, Chetumal, Cozumel, and Campeche .

To find a cheap flight to Cancun as well as the best domestic flights in Mexico, I recommend using our flight comparison tool in partnership with Skyscanner. It is guaranteed to get you the best price!

How to Get Around in Yucatan

Traveling by bus is an easy  and cheap way to get around Yucatan.

I recommend ADO, which is one of the best bus companies in Mexico with several departures to many destinations. I suggest checking the schedules listed on their website , as fares can vary enormously depending on the time!

Colectivos are another widely used means of transportation in Yucatan and throughout Mexico. These are vans that can accommodate 12 to 15 people. They cover several routes (including bus routes) and have the advantage of stopping wherever you ask them to along the way. Very practical! They are also cheaper than buses, but you have to wait for them to fill up with passengers before you can leave and you can’t get bring big suitcases with you, as there is no room.

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Mexico and make the most of your stay!

While it’s not super useful to visit the city, having a car is a must to discover the rest of the country.

To rent a car, personally, I always use Rentalcars.com, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

As I mentioned above, there are several airports in Yucatan Peninsula that offer internal flights: Mérida , Chetumal , Cozumel , and Campeche in addition to Cancún , of course.

This is convenient for those who don’t have much time on their trip or who want to see as much as possible during their stay in Mexico .

Here are all the attractions I mentioned together on one map. This will make it easier to organize your trip to Yucatan !

There are three main things to consider when choosing the best time to visit the Yucatan: the influx of tourists , the potential for hurricanes, and the weather .

Yucatan has a tropical climate that hovers around 25°C year-round, but the humidity can really make a difference!

The “dry” season, which is the most pleasant , lasts from December to April.

However, this is also the high season, so prices will be higher .

March to early April is Spring Break, and at this time of year the beaches are invaded by young Americans who come to party in the sun.

July and August are very hot and humid and quite busy for tourists.

The low season is from mid-April to mid-July and September to November. However, it’s also the rainy season and potentially hurricane season from May to October.

With these factors in mind, it’s up to you to make your choice!

In my opinion, the best time to visit Yucatan is from November to early December —after the hurricane season, before the high tourist season, and when it’s a pleasant temperature!

Generally speaking, the Yucatan Peninsula is very safe.

But as it is a huge peninsula of 181,000 square kilometers, some areas are naturally safer than others!

On the Mexican side, the states of Yucatan and Campeche are widely considered among the safest in Mexico .

Quintana Roo is a bit less safe, but the incidents largely do not occur in the tourist areas and do not target tourists .

Of course, pickpockets are present here, as they are in all tourist destinations, so it is always best not to attract attention and be vigilant:

• Avoid wearing designer clothes or jewelry
• Do not wear your camera around your neck (or only in tourist areas and during the day)
• Do not walk around with your smartphone in your hand
• Always watch your belongings at the beach
• Try to only use ATMs (automated teller machines) inside banks

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City , Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca , Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
• Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
• Riviera Maya : The 35 Epic Things to Do!

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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Tulum’s Best Restaurants: A Food Lover’s Guide for Every Wallet

Kitesurfing in El Cuyo: The Comprehensive Guide to Yucatan’s Wind Paradise

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• All our Guides about Mexico

Mexico Yucatan Peninsula

Your ultimate guide to mexico ‘s yucatan peninsula, yucatan peninsula travel guide contents.

Location | Getting There | Top Destinations  |  Things to Do  | Tours  |  Travel Safety  | Yucatan Blogs |  FAQ

mexico Yucatan Peninsula Travel Guide

Mexico yucatan peninsula: at a glance.

From world-class beaches and swimmable cenotes, to Mayan ruins and colorful, colonial cities — there’s something for everyone planning a Yucatan Peninsula trip. The area known as the Yucatan Peninsula consists of three states: Quintana Roo state, Yucatan state and Campeche state.

• Quintana Roo:  This state is home to all the big destinations in the Yucatan Peninsula, including Cancun , Tulum , Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen , but also great off the beaten path places, like Isla Holbox Island and Laguna Bacalar Lake .

• Yucatan : This state is considered one of the safest in Mexico, if not the safest. The capital city, Merida , is known as the safest city in Mexico, though other cities like Valladolid and Izamal , as well as the beaches of Yucatan , are also safe to visit.

• Campeche : The least visited Yucatan Peninsula state, this off the beaten path Mexico destination is safe. From the Walled City of Campeche to the Calakmul Mayan Ruins — both UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Campeche State has many Mexico hidden gems.

Mexico Yucatan Peninsula: Know Before You Go

• ✈️ Airport: Cancun Airport (code: CUN) and Merida Airport (code: MID) ⏰ Time Zone: Central Daylight Time (GMT-5)
• 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso
• 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages
• 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, Japanese and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
• 🔌 Electricity Socket : You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the United States. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this  universal travel adaptor .
• 📲 Mexico SIM Card : Wondering, Do I need a SIM card for Mexico? The answer is yes, every traveler will want a one for the reasons explained in this article all about the best Mexico SIM cards .
• 🚙 Car Rentals : The Mexico rental car process can be a bit daunting, and many people are apprehensive to drive in a foreign country. I get it! Check out this guide to Renting a Car in Mexico for info on the process.

What’s the best time to visit Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula?

For the best weather: November to March are the ideal months to travel to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. This is, of course, the high season or busy season in Yucatan, so expect higher price tags and larger crowds.

Yucatan Peninsula Shoulder Season: March to May is the shoulder season in Yucatan — a magical time when the weather is still nice, and the prices are still low.

For the best value: May to September will get you the most bang for your buck! However, know these months can be rainy, hot, humid and buggy. Surrounded by the Mayan jungle, mosquitoes an issue in Yucatan, especially in the summers, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray 🦟

⛈ Note: June 1 to November 30 is the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Located on the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is susceptible.

Where is the Yucatan Peninsula located?

The Yucatan Peninsula is a region in southeastern Mexico that consists of three states — Quintana Roo state, Yucatan state and Campeche state. As its name state, this is a peninsula , with the Gulf of Mexico to the north, and Caribbean Sea to the south and east.

Yucatan Peninsula map

What’s the best airport for Yucatan Peninsula travel?

For most travelers, you’ll want to use for Cancun International Airport (code: CUN) — the largest airport in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. This airport has the most direct flights, and you can easily travel to Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen and Tulum from here.

If you’re visiting Merida, Valladolid or Campeche, opt for Merida International Airport (code: MID).

What are the best Yucatan Peninsula travel destinations?

Tulum , Mexico

Once a sleepy beach town, Tulum is now one of the top Mexico travel destinations. It has some of the best beaches in Mexico, located right on the Caribbean Sea.

Is Tulum worth visiting? Tulum is perfect for travelers looking for a unique experience. It has an interesting mix of bohemian vibes and spiritual seekers, with luxurious Tulum resorts on the beach, Mayan Ruins and swimmable cenotes .

Cancun , Mexico

Cancun has been one of the top Mexico travel destinations for decades now. Visitors from all over the world head here to enjoy the beautiful beaches, Cancun cenotes , lively party scene and more.

Is Cancun worth visiting? For travelers who want to take advantage of the great Cancun all-inclusive resorts , kick back on the beach, frozen Margarita in hand — you’ll love Cancun Mexico!

Playa del Carmen , Mexico

Playa del Carmen is located about 45 minutes south of Cancun. It is popular with expats in Mexico, as well as travelers, and digital nomads in Mexico.

Is Playa del Carmen worth visiting? Playa (as it’s known by locals) has a similar vibe to Cancun, but on a smaller scale. There are still great Playa del Carmen resorts , but it sees fewer tourists than Cancun.

Merida , Mexico

Merida is the capital city of Yucatan state — and considered the safest city in Mexico. Once a Mexico hidden gem, Merida is fast becoming a top Mexico vacation city.

Is Merida worth visiting? Those seeking to experience the “real” Mexico will love Merida. It’s a great place for Mexico culture travel and foodie travel, with plenty of amazing Merida day trips located nearby.

Best things to do in Yucatan Peninsula

Each of the best places to visit in Yucatan Mexico have unique things to do. The easiest way to plan your Yucatan trip is to identify the places you plan to visit, and then discover all the best things to see and do within those locations.

Click on any image below to learn more ⤵

Holbox Island

Isla Mujeres

Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins

Bacalar Lagoon

Cozumel Island

Akumal Beach (Turtle Swim)

Campeche City

Izamal “The Yellow City”

Best yucatan peninsula tours.

Multi-day tours in Yucatan are a great way to see a lot of sites on one trip — and not have to worry about coordinating your transportation between places. Below, you’ll find the best Yucatan tours, which include unique excursions on land to see the Mayan Ruins, and unforgettable adventures under the sea.

Is Yucatan Peninsula safe for travelers?

According to experts, you are statistically quite safe while visiting Mexico. Popular areas in Mexico, like the Yucatan Peninsula, are heavily moderated by Mexican police to keep these places safe — so visitors continue to return year after year!

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is  yes . —Carlos Barron, FBI Veteran (source:  Forbes )

That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula; they do. As with traveling anywhere, follow general travel safety like not walking home alone at night, watching your alcohol consumption and staying aware of yourself and surroundings.

For an added safety measure, pack these  travel safety items , dress in a way so your Mexico outfits blend in with the locals, and buy a Mexico SIM card .

Some other less-obvious things to watch out for are dehydration, sunburns , mosquitoes and hangovers! With a tropical climate, Yucatan is hot year-round, and the mosquitoes are quite bad in the summers.

Speaking of summer, this is the Atlantic Hurricane Season, and situated between the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, Yucatan is susceptible.

What’s the best travel insurance for Mexico?

This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat. To determine which Mexico travel insurance is best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc.

🏆 In general, I only ever recommend three companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from:

• World Nomads — For general travelers and adventure travelers.
• SafetyWing — For general travelers and digital nomads in Mexico.
• Travel Insurance Master — Mexico travel insurance search tool, for those who want to compare policies.
• 👉 Click on any of the links above to get a FREE quote on your policy!

Yucatan Travel Blogs: Learn more about Yucatan Mexico 🇲🇽

Cenote Ik Kil Mexico: Ultimate Visitor’s Guide for 2024

10 Best Chichen Itza Private Tours for Travelers in 2024

Renting a Car in Riviera Maya Mexico: What to Know in 2024

Mexico yucatan peninsula: frequently asked questions, can you drink the water in mexico.

No — Unfiltered Mexico tap water is not safe for human consumption. However, you will need to keep drinking water and to stay extra hydrated, as Mexico is quite close to the Equator. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

So what can you do?

• If you’re renting a place with a kitchen, you can boil the water before drinking it.
• You can keep buying bottled water — Though this gets expensive, and is horrible for the planet!
• Use the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . This refillable bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and is good for the planet ♻️ Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals and more. I personally own one, as you can drink Mexico water from any source (even the tap), and be completely safe.

🧳 Mexico Packing list

Wondering what else you need on your packing list for Yucatan Mexico? Check out this guide — Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download !

What’s the Yucatan weather like?

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula has a tropical climate — meaning you can expect warm and hot temperatures year-round, and heavy rains throughout the summer.

In the summers, temperatures hover around 95°F (35°C), though can feel hotter because of the humidity. For the best weather in Yucatan Mexico, visit between November to March.

Is Yucatan worth visiting?

Yes — Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is a unique destination that so many types of travelers will want to check out.

This area of the country has the largest Mayan population in Mexico, and you can visit numerous Mayan Ruins in Mexico, like Tulum Ruins, Uxmal Ruins, Coba Ruins and Chichen Itza Ruins, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

There are also amazing Caribbean beaches, 5 Star all-inclusive resorts and overwater bungalows , world-class birdwatching, delicious Yucatan food , historic Colonial cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and cenotes (natural jungle pools).

No matter the kind of vacation you’er after, you can find it in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

How many days do I need in Yucatan Mexico?

If you only have a weekend to travel, stick to 1-2 cities that are near each other — like Cancun and Isla Mujeres , or Playa del Carmen and Cozumel Island . If you have one week in Yucatan, you can visit 3-4 cities. To see all the best sites and the entire Yucatan Peninsula, you’d need at least two weeks, if not more!

The Yucatan Peninsula is large, and if you want to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time, a Mexico rental car is the way to go.

🚗💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company?

Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies so you get the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them!

🚗💨 Is it safe to drive in Yucatan Mexico?

Many want to know, Is it safe to drive in Mexico? For most travelers, YES , it’s perfectly safe to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Cancun , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips so you feel safe and confident while driving in Mexico.

Is Yucatan Peninsula expensive?

This depends on where you’re going, as some places are pricier than others. Big-name destinations like Cancun, Riviera Maya and Tulum cost more (though Tulum budget travel is totally possible!), but off the beaten path places cost less.

To visit the cheaper Yucatan hidden games, head to Valladolid , Puerto Morelos , Bacalar Lagoon and Merida .

🗣 Mexico Language

Mexico Fun Fact : There’s actually no official language of Mexico!

Spanish is the most widely-spoken, so some mistakenly say Spanish is the official language of Mexico. However, the government actually recognizes 68 national languages, including the Nahuatl Aztec language, and the Maya language.

💰 Mexico Currency

Mexican Peso — Exchange rates vary, but have hovered around $18-21 pesos to $1 USD for about the last decade. You will find some places that take U.S. dollars, but usually at an unfavorable rate, so stick to using pesos in Mexico .

☀️ Mexico Weather

Mexico is a big country — the 7th largest on Earth, in fact! It’s hard to generalize the weather in Mexico, because it will vary greatly by where you’re traveling.

In general, temperatures are mostly mild everywhere all year long, though summers on the coast are hot and humid, and winters in Central and Northern Mexico are on the colder side. Throughout the whole country, the rainy season runs from (about) April through September.

✈️ Mexico Busy Season & Slow Season

• Mexico Busy Season: The busy season in Mexico runs October to March, as this is the dry season and you’ll get the best weather. December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico.

• Mexico Slow Season : If you don’t mind some rain, you’ll often find the best travel deal during the Mexico slow season of April to September. Do keep in mind that June 1-November 1 is Hurricane Season, and Mexico beaches are all susceptible.

• Mexico Shoulder Season : The shoulder season is that magical time when prices are still low and the weather is good. The Mexico shoulder season is from about mid-October to November and January to early-April.

🧳 Download your FREE Mexico Packing Checklist here!

Check out this Ultimate Packing List for Mexico — so you know what to pack and what NOT to pack for Mexico! This article offers advice on packing for Mexico cities, and packing for a Mexico beach vacation.

Beyond what Mexico outfits and clothing you’ll want to bring, here are a few extra things to consider:

• Filterable Water Bottle: Mexico is close to the Equator, so you’ll need to stay extra hydrated. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

A filterable, refillable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico.

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals and chemicals.

• Mexico SIM Card: Want to be able to use your phone in Mexico?! Of course you do! Pick up a TELCEL Mexico SIM card before your trip, and swap it out on the plane while you’re waiting to exit, so you have phone and data service the second you arrive in Mexico.

•  Anti-Hangover Meds: Planning to party hardy?! Make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious travel time with a hangover. Liquid I.V. has about 70,000 reviews on Amazon, and is considered the best defense against a hangover.

•  Sun Hat: No matter if you’re headed to the beach or a city, you’ll want to wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong Mexican sun. This cute sun hat is the perfect stylish and practical accessory for your Mexico vacation.

•   Sunscreen: As you’ll want to reapply a few times throughout the day, a light, Mineral-Based Sunscreen is ideal.

Headed to the beach? Do your part to practice responsible tourism in Mexico by only using an eco-friendly reef safe sunscreen while swimming. You can even ditch the sunscreen altogether and opt for a long sleeve swimsuit (AKA rash guard) instead.

•   Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes are common throughout Mexico — especially on the beaches! REPEL Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent. Don’t want to use a spray? Pick up some Mosquito Repellent Bracelets .

The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

🤔 What is the mexico FMM ?

When you go through Customs & Immigration to enter the country, you’ll receive your Forma Migratoria Multiple , or FMM Tourist Card (sometimes listed as FMT). If you’re coming by plane or cruise ship, there is no charge; for those driving across the border, the FMM costs about $30USD.

In most circumstances, all visitors get a 180-day (six month) visa — so you can legally stay up to six months!

🚨 Have your FMM on you at all times

Keep in mind that though it’s called an FMM card , it’s actually just a small piece of paper. Keep your FMM on you at all times in your wallet, as this proves your legal status in Mexico. It’s rare, but if an officer stops you, they can ask to see your FMM.

🎫 Don’t lose your FMM!

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as proof of your legal status in the country.

Be sure to keep track of your FMM, as you’ll have to give it back to an Immigration officer at the airport, cruise port, or land crossing when you’re leaving the country.

If you lose your FMM, there is a $600 peso ($30 USD) cost to replace it, and some paperwork you’ll need to fill out before you can leave the country.

If you’re flying home, plan to arrive at the airport about one hour earlier than you normally would to do the paperwork and pay the fine.

As this question doesn’t have a yes/no answer ( I wish it did! ), I do my best to answer it in depth in this article, Is Mexico Safe for Travelers Right Now ? However, for the most part, Mexico is actually statistically quite safe for all travelers — including solo travelers.

Check my Solo Female Mexico Travel page for more info.

💃 Mexico solo travel guides

Mexico is a big country, and it has plenty of amazing solo female travel destinations — like the ones featured in this article, Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Safe Destinations for Female Travelers .

In it, you’ll get recommendations of places to visit in Mexico, from solo travelers who have actually been to them.

🎧 solo travel podcasts

• Ep. 34 |  Planning your first Mexico solo trip • Ep. 40 | Tips for safe solo travel in Mexico • Ep. 53 | 30 Solo female travel tips, Pt. 1

To answer the question, Is it safe to drive in Mexico? — YES , it’s considered safe to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

As the country is quite large, road trips are a great way to see a lot in a little time, and especially popular in the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja California Peninsula.

The one caveat to Mexico driving safety is that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with their laws and customs. Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips!

🚙💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company? Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies to get you the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them!

As a general rule, you’ll want to know at least a few words of Spanish when visiting anywhere in Mexico. This is both a sign of respect, and will also help you have a better, smoother trip.

If you stick to the more touristic places in Mexico, you should be fine with basic Spanish. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, be advised most people in pueblos  (small towns) speak little to no English.

🗣 Here are some options:

• Brush up on your Spanish: Use a language-learning program like Rocket Spanish , so you’re confident, and conversational, before your trip.
• Download the Google Translate App: For this to work at all times, you’ll need a Mexico SIM card with data — as the app won’t work when you’re off-WiFi.
• Travel with a Mexico phrasebook: This Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook is an Amazon best seller, and a great non-digital language assistant!
• Save this infographic an image on your phone. This way, you have access to these common words, phrases and questions, even when you’re off-WiFi.

21 Best Places To Visit in Yucatan Peninsula in 2024

Are you planning your trip to Yucatan and wondering what are the best places to see? I visited the Yucatan Peninsula many times and stayed in total a couple months. It took me a couple years to visit all the tourist attractions and highlights in the Yucatan Peninsula.

In this list you will find the best places to visit and coolest things to do, but don't worry you don't need a couple months the see the best places. But if you want to see the main tourist attractions you will need a couple days, preferably somewhere around 2 weeks.

The best way to explore and travel the Yucatan Peninsula is by car. Renting a car in for example Cancun or Playa del Carmen is very cheap and totally worth it. Is it safe? YES!

After my list of the best places to visit in the Yucatan Peninsula I will show you the ultimate itinerary and below you can also find a map of where to find all these amazing places in the Yucatan Peninsula.

This Yucatan travel blog is more than just a list of amazing places and an itinerary. You will also find tips for a road trip, things to do and everything else you need to know about traveling to the Yucatan Peninsula.

At the end I tell you all about my adventures road tripping in Yucatan.

you may also like...

Traveling to Mexico? Make sure to get a local prepaid sim card or an e-sim card. Here is a guide for buying a prepaid sim card for tourists in Mexico in 2024  or make it yourself easy and order an e-sim card for Mexico on the internet. Check out my guide with everything you need to know before ordering an e-sim card for Mexico on the internet in 2024 .

When you are ready to see more of Mexico I recommend you to check out my article with the 20 Amazing Places to Visit in Mexico .

1. Cancun (A)

If you feel like you need a day to rest from your flight to Cancun there are endless amazing Cancun hotels on the hotel strip. This is also where you will find the best beaches in Yucatan. Most of them are privately owned by the hotels though. Cancun is the best base for your Yucatan itinerary.

Car rentals are cheap and busses go in all directions from either Cancun Airport or downtown. From here it is easy to get to all the amazing places to visit in Yucatan. A cool day trip from Cancun is Rio Secreto, an underground river tour .

2. Isla Holbox (B)

In case you are jet legged this is where you want to get rid of it. If you travel to Isla Holbox you will understand why, because here it is all about that slow paced island life. The Caribbean vibes are all over this car-free island. Bike around the sandy streets until you find your perfect spot on a deserted beach or find a lounge bed in one of the beach clubs.

Don’t forget to got to Punta Coco to swing in a hammock for sunset, it was one of my favorite things to do in Yucatan Peninsula. Find all my Isla Holbox tips in the link. Isla Holbox is like one big resort for people backpacking Yucatan. Oh yeah and here is where you can swim with whalesharks a couple months a year.

3. Valladolid (C)

Soak up some real authentic Mexican lifestyle in this charming city. This is where you will find hidden haciendas, colorful houses, instagram spots, lovely restaurants and boutique shops. Valladolid is a small city with a lot of soul and most famous for its spectacular cenotes around Valladolid .

This is Cenote Suytun , one of the most famous cenotes in Yucatan and a famous Instagram photo spot. Make sure to visit the cenote at the right time of day or get disappointed. Check out my tips in the link above. Exploring the cenotes by bike is one of the great things to do on your Yucatan trip. Click here for my list of 22 Valladolid Mexico travel tips .

4. Ek Balam (D)

Meet the Mayas for the first time on your Yucatan itinerary. The little brother of Chichen Itza is close to Valladolid and can be done on a day trip or on your way to Rio Lagartos. Here you will also find Cenote Xcanche to cool off on a hot day. The best thing about Ek Balam is that you are still allowed to climb the pyramids and therefore one of the best places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula.

5. Rio Lagartos (E)

My trip to Rio Lagartos turned out to be one of my favorite things to do in Yucatan Peninsula. I had zero expectations and for less than $15 I got a 3 hour boat trip, including bird watching, mud bath, flamingos, crocodiles, a mangroves tour and got to see Las Coloradas Pink Lake.

When you travel to Yucatan Peninsula make sure you visit Rio Lagartos! Add this place in your itinerary, it is worth it. Click here for all my Rio Lagartos travel tips .

6. Chichen Itza (F)

There is no Yucatan travel guide that doesn’t include Chichen Itza, but on my last Yucatan trip in March 2019 I didn’t go. I went to visit Chichen Itza 11 years ago and of course it blew my mind. I heard that nowadays it got extremely touristy, but for a reason. This is one of the 7 World Wonders and a must visit in Yucatan Peninsula. If you are backpacking Yucatan be aware that the entrance fee since 2019 is raised to 480 Pesos ($25). Secret Yucatan Peninsula travel tip is to download a tour guide app for Chichen Itza for $1 to save money on an expensive guide.

I bet after you visit Chichen Itza you want to take a refreshing dip in one of the most beautiful cenotes in Yucatan Peninsula: cenote Ik Kil, just 5 minutes away from Chichen Itza. Click on the link to see my vlog about and a complete blog post with 25 things to know about this Chichen Itza cenote .

7. Izamal (G)

A little detour on your way from Chichen Itza to Merida there is the yellow city of Izamal, definitely worth a stop on your Yucatan itinerary. It is a Maya pilgrimage for a sun god so it made sense to paint your house yellow but when in 1993 the Pope visited Izamal they all went bonanza painting their houses yellow. It is a unique place to see in Yucatan Peninsula.

8. Merida (H)

The capital of the Yucatan State and the most authentic city on the Yucatan Peninsula. It is considered the oldest city in the Americas and of course full of history. This is where you go dancing in charming bars at night and escape the daily heat by swimming in cenotes. The Merida nightlife is the best place to soak up some latin vibes. Merida is a peaceful city with amazingly friendly people and a vibrant vibe. Plan you Yucatan Peninsula itinerary so that you visit Merida on a Sunday. There are street markets and live music everywhere around the city. It was one of the best experiences on my Yucatan road trip. Click here for all my Merida Mexico travel tips .

9. Celestun (I)

Visiting Celestun is kind of the same as a trip to Rio Lagartos. Depending on the month of your Yucatan Peninsula trip this is where you will find much bigger groups of flamingos though. They can be found with hundreds together here in Celestun. Find also plenty bird life, crocodiles, boat trips and a peaceful fishing village. Visiting Celestun is best to be done on a day trip from Merida.

10. Uxmal (J)

The very impressive Uxmal ruins deserve a spot in this list of amazing places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula. Great thing about the Uxmal ruins is that you can still climb one of the big pyramids and it offers great jungle views. Uxmal can also be visited as a day trip from Merida or on your way to Chetumal or Bacalar.

11. Chetumal (K)

I honestly wasn’t really impressed by the capital of the Quintana Roo state and one night is enough here to rest from your long drive from Uxmal ruins. Chetumal is the border town with Belize and hasn’t really any tourist attractions. It is great if you are backpacking Yucatan as it is really cheap. You won’t often find it in any Yucatan Peninsula travel guide, although some Costa Maya ruins are nearby: Kohunlich, Dzibanche and Kinichna. These ruins are totally off the beaten path and you will have them all for yourself. You could visit them on your way from Uxmal to Bacalar. If you decide to skip Chetumal on your Yucatan peninsula itinerary I would totally understand.

12. Bacalar (L)

One of the newest Yucatan Peninsula highlights is Bacalar. Located on an utterly stunning lake renown for its shades of blue it is now named in every Yucatan travel blog. The town is struggling with its popularity though and good value accommodation is hard to find. Go kayaking on the lake or hop on a boat to the Pirates channel and enjoy the day in this absolutely amazing lagoon. There are also several ‘beach’ clubs located along the lake and tubing or kayaking tours are among the best things to do here. For amazing food go to the Vegan restaurant Mango y Chile.

13. Mahahual, Costa Maya (M)

The Yucatan Peninsula is full of amazing tourist destinations and another favorite of mine was  Mahahual Costa Maya Costa Maya . This sleepy fishing village quickly changed into a tourist hotspot when they constructed the Costa Maya cruise port in Mahahual.

Although on cruise days the town can get busy it still is one of the coolest places to visit in Yucatan. The best thing to do in Costa Maya is to grab a beer and swing in a sea hammock.

14. Sian Ka’an (N)

The only place I have not been on this ultimate Yucatan itinerary. It surely is an off the beaten path tourist destination in Yucatan Peninsula as it is hard to get to. When you are on a road trip it makes things easier. Sian Ka’an is popular for day trips from Playa del Carmen and Tulum as here you can snorkel with manatees, sea turtles, dolphins and even see crocodiles all in one boat trip. All this wildlife makes a Sian Ka’an boat trip one of the best things to do in Yucatan Peninsula.

15. Tulum (O)

The Tulum beaches, cenotes and Maya ruins have been the main reasons to visit Tulum, but over the last years this city gained popularity through Instagram as a real hipster place.

Co-working spaces, lovely coffee cafe’s, vegan restaurants and yoga workshops are well present in Tulum. A great place for many digital nomads boosting an inspiring vibe. There are no high-rise hotels to be found in Tulum which makes it a much more relaxing place to visit in Yucatan Peninsula.

16. Coba (P)

When thinking about visiting Maya Ruins in Quintana Roo then Coba is your best bid. It can easily be done on a day trip from Playa del Carmen and Tulum. There is no need to stay overnight at Coba unless you want to be the first one in and climb the pyramid without any other tourists around. Still not sure where to go then read my Coba vs. Tulum Ruins article.

17. Akumal (Q)

Once a super small village and one of the best kept Yucatan Peninsula travel tips. There is a stunning beach with a reef just offshore full of sea turtles and stingrays. Apparently the marine wildlife can still be seen, but nowadays Akumal beach is not public anymore. To protect the ecosystem you will now have to pay 100 Pesos ($5) for beach access, but snorkeling with sea turtles is still possible. I stayed overnight in Akumal, but it can easily be done on a day trip from Playa del Carmen or Tulum as well.

18. Playa del Carmen (R)

No need to introduce one of the most popular places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula. The notorious Playa del Carmen is a super touristy destination, great for those looking to party. For miles there are many big all inclusive resorts lined up along the beach and there is a party to be found everywhere around the famous 5th Avenue. From Playa del Carmen there are many day trips to be found like Selvatica Canopy adventure , Tulum and Coba tour , etc.

19. Cozumel (S)

Towards the end of your Yucatan Peninsula itinerary it is time for some island vibes again. Cozumel is a very popular cruise destination in the Yucatan Peninsula. A day trip to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen is an option but then you will miss the amazing sunsets. Rent a scooter on Cozumel and drive around the island.

Beach clubs, deserted beaches, snorkeling and even surfing can be found here. If you have more time and are a scuba dive lover then you will love a trip to Cozumel.

20. Puerto Morelos (T)

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the Riviera Maya than make sure you include Puerto Morelos on your Yucatan road trip. A super chilled beach town right in the middle of Playa del Carmen and Cancun. Snorkeling in amazing here read more about it in my Puerto Morelos travel blog .

21. Isla Mujeres (U)

The best way to end your Yucatan itinerary is by soaking up some final beach vibes before you get back in the plane. Isla Mujeres is just a stone throw away from Cancun and offers one of the best beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula. Although touristy there are still places to escape the crowds and when the day trips from Cancun leave Im sure you will find this the best place to end your Yucatan trip. Check out this article for the best things to do in Isla Mujeres in 2024 .

I am pretty sure when you would tick off all the above cool things to do and amazing places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula it is going to be the trip of your lifetime!

Ultimate Yucatan Peninsula road trip itinerary

Day 1: cancun (a), day 2-4: isla holbox (b) - island life, day 5-6: valladolid (c) - cenotes, day 7: ek balam (d) - maya ruins, day 8-9: rio lagartos (e) - wildlife, day 10: chichen itza (f) - maya ruins, day 11: izamal (g) - picturesque town, day 12-13: merida  (h) - authentic city life, cenotes, day 14: celestun (i)- wildlife, day 15: uxmal (j) - maya ruins, day 16: chetumal (k) - maya ruins, day 17-18: bacalar (l) - lake/lagoon, day 19-20: mahahual costa maya (m) - beaches, day 21: sian ka’an (n) - wildlife, day 22-23: tulum (o) - beaches, cenotes, day 24: coba (p) - maya ruins, day 24: akumal (q) - beaches/snorkeling, day 24-26: playa del carmen (r) - party, day 27: cozumel (s) - scooter adventure, day 28: puerto morelos (t) - beach town, day 29-30: isla mujeres (u) - beaches.

As you can see the above Yucatan Itinerary is pretty damn packed full of cool places to see and things to do. Loads of ancient Maya ruins, sunsets, sea hammocks, ancient cities, snorkeling with turtles, beach destinations, cenotes, beautiful lakes, crocodiles, pelicans and a pink lake. Doesn’t this sound like a dream trip?

I will first give you some more Yucatan peninsula travel tips and then will tell a little bit about all the listed places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula.

Is a Yucatan Peninsula road trip safe?

Yes, yes, yes, yes! A road trip in the Yucatan is most probably safer than driving around your home country. Yucatan tourism did a lot to make this a safe place for tourists and it clearly has paid off. When I did a Yucatan road trip 11 years ago I saw loads of road blocks and military presence. This is all gone nowadays. Not a single moment on my Yucatan trip in March 2019 I felt unsafe, nor did I see anything suspicious. People around the Yucatan peninsula are extremely helpful. May you ever get lost, just ask for directions. These people don’t bite!

Make sure to always stay connected to the internet by buying a Telcel sim card. In my article the best sim card for tourists in Mexico in 2024  I found out that Telcel is the only mobile operator with decent network coverage all over Yucatan Peninsula.

There are reports of people getting stopped by the police for bribes, but all the Yucatan police did when they saw me was smiling and waving. Honestly I had not encountered any problems on my way, but literally just when I was about to gas up my car before bringing it back to the rental company they tried to scam me.

Be aware as this is a well known scam apparently! They try to scam you at gas stations. While writing about it I still get furious about how I got scammed. I sweared a lot in my best Spanish and made them all a fool in front of everyone. Basically 1 Liter gas costs 20 Pesos ($1), so a full tank is max 600 Pesos, half a tank max 300 Pesos, but the idiots asked me 700 Pesos for half a tank. So stupid! They tried it with the wrong person! Always look on the gas meter and see how many Liters approximately go in or just tell them for how many Pesos you want to gas up. The scam happened in a Pemex gas station in Playa del Carmen, the rest of the gas stations around Yucatan Peninsula were totally fine and very friendly people.

How is it to drive around Yucatan Peninsula?

The roads to the best places to visit in Yucatan are in a very good state. Almost all things to do in Yucatan are accessible by car, apart from some cenotes around Valladolid and Merida. There are only two toll roads in Yucatan Peninsula. One is Highway 180 from Cancun to Valladolid and the other one is highway 305D from Playa del Carmen to Valladolid. The rest of the roads are free of charge. On both toll roads they charge 233 Pesos ($12) for a normal car.

In Yucatan, Mexico they drive on the right side of the road. Apart from the 180(D) Highway from East to West and the 307 North to South you will be driving on single roads so be aware that there is upcoming traffic.

The most dangerous thing about a Yucatan road trip are the speed bumps. Very often there is no road sign for them and they are huge! Be aware that the speed limit often is not more than 90 km/h (60 mph). Just always drive within limits and the police won’t have a reason to stop you in the first place.

Is it expensive to rent a car in Yucatan Peninsula?

You would be surprised if I tell you that a Yucatan road trip is very affordable. Renting a car in Yucatan Peninsula is super cheap. For less than $10 per day you can already find a small car with unlimited kilometers/miles. I chose to get full coverage and therefore I paid another $12 extra per day. In total I paid a little over $20 per day for renting a car to complete most of my Yucatan itinerary.

I rented my car at MEX Rent a Car in Playa del Carmen . The employee that helped me was Carolina and she did a great job. It was smooth, fast and upon returning there was no issue. 

As I said gas costs only 20 Pesos ($1) per Liter and there are hardly any toll roads. A full tank for a small car is 30 Liters. One full tank will last for 500 kilometer (310 miles).

Backpacking Yucatan

Of course it is not necessary to rent a car to complete this ultimate Yucatan itinerary. I only rented a car for about two weeks, the rest I traveled around Yucatan peninsula by bus. The public transport in the Yucatan is very well organized and there is an extensive bus transportation system. The best bus company and of course also the most expensive is ADO. They have good, clean tourist class busses.

Because all the busses from Cancun to Isla Holbox were full I one time had to go with Oriente. Trust me if there is a choice, always pay the couple dollars extra for an ADO bus. Oriente overbooked the bus and an Italian guy had to sit in the isle for 3 hours.

If you want to backpack Yucatan in style then there also is the ADO premium class. This luxury bus is like traveling in business class. Worth the experience, but it is double as expensive.

A standard ADO bus ticket cost about $4 per hour. If you book in advance they claim to give you discounts, but I tried it myself and the prices stay the same. Therefore I would never really book in advance.

I wrote a complete guide for backpacking Yucatan with 22 travel tips, check it out in the link.

Best time to visit Yucatan Peninsula

Weather wise the best time to travel to Yucatan Peninsula is November to February when temperatures are the coolest. March, April and May it can get really hot and humid and from June till October is the official rainy season. High season is from December till April and therefore the best month to visit Yucatan Peninsula is November.

How much does it cost to visit Yucatan Peninsula

It all depends on what kind of traveler you are but there are a million ways to save money on a road trip in Yucatan. Accommodation doesn’t have to be expensive it just comes down how much privacy you are willing to sacrifice. There are great hostels around for those backpacking Yucatan, but Airbnb is a great option too. Food in the supermarket is much cheaper than back home and you can already eat breakfast, lunch and dinner for $5 per day if you prepare your meals yourself. Local food can easily be found for less than $5 per meal as well. Beers in Yucatan are cheap and at most local places you pay around $1 for a beer. Backpacking Yucatan can easily be done for less than $40 per day!

My experience traveling in Yucatan

In total I traveled, played, partied, explored, road tripped, chilled and toured around the Yucatan Peninsula for more than 2 months. Of those two months I rented a car for about 2 weeks and went to Rio Lagartos , Valladolid, Bacalar, Mahahual and back to Playa del Carmen. I stayed 5 days in Cozumel , decided to go to Holbox for a little bit and spent a week in Cancun and Isla Mujeres . Also traveled in and between Playa del Carmen and Tulum for some days before I moved to Merida  for almost two weeks. From here I visited Celestun, Uxmal and Izamal. Then I slowly traveled back and crashed again in Valladolid and through Playa del Carmen and Tulum I ended up in Cancun again and ended my Yucatan Peninsula trip in Isla Mujeres.

As you can see my road trip itinerary wasn’t really planned out very well and most of the Riviera Maya places I visited twice. But as a digital nomad and professional travel blogger I had all the time in the world to visit Yucatan Peninsula the way I wanted. Most of the times I traveled around by bus and as I said that is very comfortable.

Distances aren’t actually that long as the longest bus ride was from Cancun to Merida, which was less than 4 hours. A place where I really enjoyed having a car was around Merida. But that was also because I visited almost 15 cenotes around that area. There is no need for you to tick them all off, but I wanted to write an extensive travel blog about the Valladolid cenotes .

Where to stay in Yucatan Peninsula?

There are a ton of cheap places to be found in every city. Mostly I booked my hotels while on the road. Make sure you get a prepaid sim card for Mexico sim card  or an e-sim card for Mexico to be always connected to the internet and save on high roaming costs.

Staying longer than 3 nights in the same place then I recommend looking at Airbnb as they are mostly cheaper for long term rent. In general check out both and find your preferred one. I never made a reservation in advanced, always on the spot.

May you have any additional questions then leave me a comment below and Im happy to help.

Let my Instagram account @traveltomtom fuel you with wanderlust. As I am trying to visit every country in the world you might see places you never heard of before. As of January 2024 I have been to more than 155 countries.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Travel & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

I sincerely hope all this info and these tips about traveling to Yucatan Peninsula were helpful for planning your trip. If you feel like helping me then please share the link of this article somewhere on the internet.

Every share on Facebook is amazing and much appreciated and so is a tweet on X or a pin on Pinterest. Thanks you very much in advance for helping me in return.

Enjoy your trip to the Yucatan Peninsula!

• rio lagartos
• isla holbox
• playa del carmen
• puerto morelos
• riviera maya
• yucatan peninsula
• isla mujeres
• chichen itza
• sian ka'an

Yucatan Peninsula Travel Guide: The 16 Best Places to Visit

Discover Yucatan Peninsula with a personalized tour tailored to your preferences, immersing in an unforgettable adventure crafted by Rutopía's team.

Design your trip to Mexico with a local travel designer. Unique activities and lodging, 100% tailor-made and stress-free.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey through the Yucatan Peninsula! Dive into a world of thrilling attractions—from ancient Mayan ruins to vibrant tropical forests, and taste authentic Mexican tequila at local distilleries. Explore mesmerizing underground caves, historic traditional haciendas, and enchanting colonial cities. 

We share 16 must-visit destinations to make the most of your trip!

Where Is the Yucatan Peninsula Located?

The Yucatan Peninsula is located on a limb in southeast Mexico, between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. This geographic location imbues the region with a climate reminiscent of the Caribbean. 

The primary gateway to Yucatan is the Cancun Airport (although Cancun is not located in the state of Yucatan). 

The area experiences warm temperatures, lush vegetation, and occasional tropical storms, contributing to its tropical paradise ambiance.

While «Yucatan» and «Yucatan Peninsula» are often used interchangeably, it's important to note the distinction. The Yucatan Peninsula comprises four states: Yucatan, Campeche , Quintana Roo , and Tabasco. This geographic division underscores the region's diversity and richness beyond the state of Yucatan itself.

The 16 Best Places to Visit in Yucatan Peninsula

Explore the wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula , a captivating region in southeastern Mexico boasting a plethora of must-visit destinations. From ancient Mayan ruins to pristine Caribbean beaches, this diverse landscape offers an array of experiences to suit every traveler's interests. 

Join us to discover the top attractions and hidden gems that make the Yucatan Peninsula an unforgettable destination.

Explore Chichen Itza

Embark on an extraordinary adventure to explore Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula. This ancient Mayan city, renowned for its awe-inspiring architecture and rich cultural heritage, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. 

Marvel at the iconic pyramid of El Castillo, an architectural masterpiece that aligns with the sun's movements during the equinoxes. Wander through the ancient ball court, where ancient rituals and sporting events once occurred. 

Discover intricate carvings, temples, and sacred cenotes scattered throughout the site, each with its own story. Immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of Chichen Itza, where history and legend intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. 

Chichen Itza promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of ancient Mayan civilization.

Discover the Yokdzonot Cenotes

Nestled just a short distance from the majestic Chichen Itza, the Yokdzonot Cenotes offer a serene, off-the-beaten-path alternative for explorers seeking tranquility amidst nature's splendor. This hidden gem, surrounded by lush vegetation, provides crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, away from the crowds that frequent more popular sites.

A visit to Yokdzonot not only promises a unique and authentic experience but also supports the community's sustainable tourism efforts. This contributes to the preservation of this pristine natural wonder and the prosperity of its caretakers.

With Yokdzonot's proximity to Chichen Itza, visitors have the unique opportunity to combine the awe of ancient Mayan architecture with the tranquil beauty of natural creations, making for an enriching, comprehensive Yucatan adventure.

The Yokdzonot Cenotes are an exquisite, less-touristed haven worth discovering.

Go to Río Lagartos

Discover the hidden gem of Río Lagartos in Yucatan, an enchanting destination that offers unique experiences for nature lovers and photographers alike. Located on the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Río Lagartos is a famous biosphere reserve with stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.

One of the highlights of a visit to Río Lagartos is the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Las Coloradas , the famous pink lakes, from afar. These stunning pink-hued salt lakes create a surreal backdrop, perfect for capturing memorable photographs. Additionally, Río Lagartos is home to a diverse array of bird species, including flamingos, herons, and pelicans, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. 

Whether you're seeking natural beauty or a photographer's paradise, Río Lagartos promises an unforgettable experience immersed in the wonders of the Yucatan.

Make Your Own Hammock in Ek Balam and El Veinte

Immerse yourself in Yucatan's rich cultural tradition by learning the art of hammock weaving in Ek Balam y El Veinte en Campeche. These charming Mexican villages offer visitors the unique opportunity to create their hammocks under the guidance of skilled artisans.

As you weave, you'll gain insight into the intricate craftsmanship behind these iconic symbols of relaxation and forge a personal connection with the local community. Crafting your hammock provides a memorable and meaningful souvenir to take home, a tangible reminder of your journey through Yucatan's vibrant culture. 

Swim with Whale Sharks At Isla Holbox

Embark on one of the best beaches to swim with whale sharks off the coast of Isla Holbox in Yucatan. Known as the gentle giants of the sea, these magnificent creatures congregate in the warm waters surrounding this Mexican island from May to September, providing an extraordinary opportunity for visitors to witness them up close. 

Join a guided excursion led by experienced local experts who will ensure a safe and respectful encounter with these majestic animals. As you snorkel alongside the largest fish in the ocean, marvel at their graceful movements and vibrant markings, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore the Colors of Izamal, The Yellow Town

This enchanting colonial city captivates visitors with its striking yellow facades, earning it the nickname «The Yellow Town» or «La Ciudad Amarilla» and creating a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with bougainvillea flowers, immersing yourself in the town's rich history and cultural heritage. 

Explore iconic landmarks such as the Franciscan monastery of San Antonio de Padua, topped with a stunning yellow dome, and the ancient Mayan pyramid of Kinich Kakmó, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Indulge in traditional Yucatecan cuisine at local eateries, savoring dishes infused with bold flavors and fresh ingredients.

Snorkel With Sea Turtles

You can have your day trip immersing yourself in the wonders of Yucatan's marine life by embarking on a thrilling snorkeling adventure with sea turtles. With a white sand beach and abundant biodiversity, Yucatan offers the perfect setting for encountering these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. 

Join a guided snorkeling tour led by expert local guides who will take you to prime turtle-watching locations. In Akumal (south of Tulum ), Xcacel beach (south of Playa del Carmen) and Mahahual, you can swim alongside these gentle giants in their underwater sanctuary. 

Marvel at their graceful movements as they glide effortlessly through the water and observe them as they forage for food among the coral reefs. As you explore the vibrant underwater world of Yucatan, you'll also encounter colorful tropical fish, rays, and other marine life, making this snorkeling experience truly unforgettable.

Scuba Diving Around Cozumel

Explore the underwater wonders of Cozumel, a paradise for diving enthusiasts in Yucatan. Renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, Cozumel offers an unparalleled diving experience. Dive into the depths of the Caribbean Sea and discover a kaleidoscope of colors as you explore stunning coral formations teeming with tropical fish, rays, and other fascinating creatures.

Join a guided dive tour led by experienced local instructors who will ensure a safe and unforgettable underwater adventure. With its breathtaking scenery and abundant marine biodiversity, diving in Cozumel promises an extraordinary journey into the mesmerizing beauty of Yucatan's underwater realm.

Visit MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art)

Experience a truly unique attraction in Yucatan by visiting the MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art). Located off the coast of Isla Mujeres and Cancún, this museum showcases an extraordinary collection of submerged sculptures nestled within the vibrant coral reefs. 

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea and marvel at the captivating artworks that serve as artificial reefs, providing habitat for marine life and promoting coral growth. Explore the underwater galleries, filled with thought-provoking installations created by renowned artists, offering a surreal and immersive encounter with art beneath the waves. 

Go Swimming In Cenotes in Chemuyil

Immerse yourself in an authentic Yucatan experience by swimming in the cenotes of Chemuyil with local entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs offer guided tours that not only showcase the natural beauty of the cenotes but also provide insights into the cultural and ecological significance of these sacred underground pools. 

By supporting local businesses, you contribute to the community's sustainable development while gaining a deeper understanding of the region's rich heritage. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the cenotes, surrounded by lush vegetation and ancient rock formations, as knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories and local legends. 

This immersive experience allows you to connect with the natural wonders of Yucatan and the entrepreneurial spirit of its people, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Dive into adventure and culture with a cenote tour led by passionate locals, and discover the true essence of this enchanting region. Another good option would be to visit Cenote Ik Kil if you have enough time.

Walk through La Quinta Avenida in Playa del Carmen 

Stroll down La Quinta Avenida in Playa del Carmen for an unforgettable experience. This pedestrian street, parallel to the stunning Caribbean coastline, is a vibrant hub of activity, offering an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. From trendy boutiques and artisanal craft shops to lively bars and delicious eateries serving authentic Mexican cuisine, La Quinta Avenida has something to delight every traveler. 

You can savor authentic tacos al pastor, quesadillas filled with Oaxaca cheese, fresh seafood ceviche, Swiss enchiladas, and freshly prepared guacamole made with ripe avocados. Moreover, don't miss the opportunity to try delicious Mexican desserts such as tres leches cake or caramel flan. 

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you stroll past colorful storefronts and vibrant street performers, soaking in the sights and sounds of this dynamic thoroughfare. Whether you're seeking a leisurely day of shopping and dining or a lively night out on the town, La Quinta Avenida promises an unforgettable experience filled with culture, charm, and endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment in the heart of Playa del Carmen.

Discover the Calakmul Mayan Ruins

Embark on a fascinating journey through time, exploring the Mayan ruins of Calakmul. Located deep within the lush jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula, Calakmul stands as one of Mexico's largest and most significant Mayan archaeological sites. 

As you venture into the towering pyramids, expansive plazas, and intricately carved stelae, you'll be transported back to the pinnacle of Mayan civilization, marveling at its architectural and cultural achievements. Climb to the top of the main pyramid for breathtaking views of the jungle canopy, where you may spot wildlife such as howler monkeys and toucans. 

Moreover, Calakmul is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further underscoring its historical and cultural significance. Take the chance to participate in cultural workshops in the nearby community of El Veinte, where you can learn about local traditions and crafts.

Visit Punta Laguna Nature Reserve

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Riviera Maya by visiting the Punta Laguna Nature Reserve. Tucked away in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, this pristine sanctuary offers a glimpse into the region's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Explore dense jungles, tranquil lagoons, and sparkling cenotes teeming with diverse wildlife, including spider monkeys, jaguars, and vibrant bird species. 

Engage in guided tours led by knowledgeable local guides who will provide insights into the area's ecology and Mayan traditions. 

Experience thrilling adventures like zip-lining through the canopy or kayaking along the serene lagoon waters. Additionally, participate in eco-friendly activities like tree planting and wildlife monitoring, contributing to the conservation efforts of this extraordinary natural haven.

Go Kayaking in Bacalar Lagoon 

Experience the serene beauty of Bacalar Lagoon unforgettably by embarking on a kayaking adventure. Known as the «Lake of Seven Colors» in Spanish, Bacalar Lagoon boasts crystal-clear waters shimmer in shades of blue and turquoise, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. 

Paddle through the tranquil waters and explore the hidden corners of this natural wonder, surrounded by lush vegetation and the majestic Blue Cenote. Gliding along the lagoon, you'll encounter diverse flora and fauna, including mangroves, water lilies, and tropical birds. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, dotted with ancient Mayan ruins and picturesque islands. 

Bacalar Lagoon offers an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Discover this hidden gem's unparalleled beauty and tranquility as you kayak through the pristine waters of Bacalar Lagoon.

Taste Mayan Food in Ek Balam, Yokdzonot, Yaxunah, and Nuevo Durango

Immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of the Maya by sampling traditional cuisine in Ek Balam, Yokdzonot, Yaxunah, and Nuevo Durango. These authentic Maya communities offer a tempting array of dishes that showcase the region's vibrant flavors and ancient cooking techniques. 

Indulge in savory delights such as cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish marinated in achiote and citrus juices, or savor the tangy flavors of sikil pak, a creamy pumpkin seed dip. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional tamales wrapped in banana leaves or freshly made tortillas served with spicy salsa.

Venture into Punta Allen

Punta Allen is a secluded fishing village within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, offers a peaceful escape from more touristy areas. This small village is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, and fishing in its calm waters, often described as natural pools.

At night, the absence of light pollution reveals stunning starry skies, while the village's pace encourages relaxing interactions with locals and enjoying fresh seafood​. Accommodations focus on sustainability, ranging from basic lodges to eco-friendly resorts.

All of this is surrounded by the remarkable biodiversity of the area, including iguanas, coatis, raccoons, birds, and aquatic species. The journey to Punta Allen itself is an adventure, highlighting its secluded and untouched nature.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Yucatan Peninsula?

The best time to visit any region of Mexico depends on several factors, such as the weather, costs, and cultural events that take place at different times of the year. Understanding these aspects can greatly enhance your travel experience. 

Weather plays a crucial role, as some regions may experience extreme temperatures or rainy seasons, which can affect outdoor activities and tourism opportunities.

December And January: High Seasons With The Highest Rates

We do not recommend it because destinations become overcrowded. 

February, March, And April: Good Options

These months are good options due to the weather, but it is still a high season with average rates, especially during Easter and Spring break. 

May: The Low Season 

During this month is convenient due to lower rates, but it starts getting hot in August. For example, flying to Cancun from the USA is quite affordable especially during this season.

March to August: Natural Phenomenon of Sargassum

The natural phenomenon of sargassum occurs on beaches, making it unpredictable. There's usually a foul smell; visually, it's unpleasant. Furthermore, the rainy season starts in June and lasts until August. So, our travel tip is to consider these months before planning your vacation.

September and October: Recommended Seasons

September and October (and November after the 5th, after the Day of the Dead) are recommended seasons due to lower rates and pleasant weather because the rainy season has passed, the heat is not as intense as in the summer, and it is low season (except for September 15th and 16th, which are holidays for Independence Day). 

Additionally, starting from October 27th, the Day of the Dead season begins, which is also high season until November 5th.

Ultimately, we recommend considering these factors, and you can choose the best time to visit Mexico according to your preferences and interests.

Travelers in Bacalar lagoon

Is the Yucatan Peninsula Safe?

Yes, it is the safest way to explore the depths of Mexico. All our local partners, including guides, hosts, and accommodation providers, undergo a thorough curation process, with safety conditions being a fundamental criterion. This includes ensuring they are located in «safe zones» of the country, have the support of local authorities, follow appropriate safety and emergency protocols, have years of experience, and have received validation from visitors and reputable organizations.

Additionally, we offer a comprehensive Travel Assistance Service. By booking with us, you will have access to one of our dedicated experts, who are available remotely to assist with any queries or needs before and during your journey.

With over a decade of experience organizing trips, we confidently address and prioritize all possible safety concerns, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for our travelers.

What Should I Bring to the Yucatan Peninsula?

When packing for your trip to the Yucatan Peninsula, consider bringing essential items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Start with biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect your skin from the sun and pesky bugs.

Staying hydrated in the tropical climate is crucial, so pack plenty of water in reusable bottles. Additionally, opt for lightweight, breathable clothing to keep cool in the warm weather. 

Remember to pack a hat, sunglasses, and a swimsuit for beach outings or cenote explorations. For outdoor activities, such as hiking or exploring ancient ruins, sturdy walking shoes or sandals with good grip are recommended. 

Lastly, bring a backpack or daypack to carry your essentials while exploring. By packing these items, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy all the Yucatan Peninsula offers while staying comfortable and protected.

Where Should I Stay in the Yucatan Peninsula?

Discover the perfect accommodations for your Yucatan Peninsula getaway! Experience the ultimate in relaxation and comfort while immersing yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of the region.

• Le Muuch (Valladolid, Yucatan): The hotel is crafted with a deep love for Mexico and its traditions, where each of its 21 rooms celebrates the cultural diversity of Mexico. Its murals, corridors, balconies, and terraces pay homage to the magical hands of Mexican artisans. 
• Hotel B Cozumel (Cozumel, Quintana Roo): Hotel B Cozumel stands as the sole authentic and trendy boutique hotel in Cozumel. Nestled around an incredible natural bay, it boasts stunning views of the Caribbean Sea from virtually every vantage point.
• Künük Hotel Boutique (Mérida, Yucatan): Situated in the heart of Mérida, just steps away from the Historic Center and its impressive period constructions, Künük embodies a pledge of harmony, color, and peace. 
• Hotel B Unique (Cozumel, Quintana Roo): Hotel B Unique sets itself apart from its sibling, Hotel B Cozumel, by focusing on adults-oriented experiences and incorporating the latest design trends from its inception.
• Kuka y Naranjo (Centro, Mérida, Yucatan): It's a project that, through hospitality experiences, shares literature, art, architecture, and poetry. Its aim is to design spaces that invite travelers to reflect on themselves, their roots, and their history.
• Azul Nomeolvides (Bacalar, Quintana Roo): Get ready to indulge in a laid-back atmosphere in harmony with nature and relish an experience that will allow you to disconnect from everyday life for a few days.
• Casa Hormiga (Bacalar, Quintana Roo): Stepping into Casa Hormiga is akin to entering a sanctuary. There, you'll discover beauty, kindness, and relaxation, along with an opportunity for spiritual relief.

How Should I Get Around in the Yucatan Peninsula?

Regarding budget, the most convenient option is to use buses, although it sacrifices some comfort. So, the best option would be to look for a car rental company if you want to make a long circuit or visit multiple destinations.

Private transfers are more expensive, but the benefit is comfort and not having to worry about how to get to places since you can rely on local drivers. We recommend this last option more if you want to stay in one or two destinations.

Traveling with Rutopía will give you the most authentic Mexican experience. Request your tailor trip here and let us take care of every detail.

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The states of Chiapas and Yucatan in Mexico have several attractions in common: their colonial cities, their Mayan sites and their nature.

Travel to enjoy the diversity of Oaxaca, discover their secret jewels, and villages, and relax on the beaches.

Nature is of utmost importance for the health of the human being, thanks to it we have many vital things such as water and air, and more.

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Mérida, Southern Cultural and Culinary Capital City

Archaeological zones.

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• USA, Houston
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• MX, Chiapatas
• MX, Jalisco
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Yucatán, Cenotes and Haciendas

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Explore yucatán.

Hanal Pixán

The meaning in Mayan of the words “Hanal” and “Pixán” are “food” and “soul” respectively, therefore Haná Pixán means “Food for the souls”.

Río Lagartos

Only 12 kilometers separate the port of San Felipe from Río Lagartos, from where you can take a tour that will give you a memorable experience.

Flamingos route

Some of these routes will take you to the reserves or protected areas covered with vegetation, cenotes, salt flats and lagoons right where the flamingos court and nest.

Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá, it was declared a World Heritage Site in 1988 by UNESCO and a Wonder of the World since 2007.

The Cuyo is the small port of the municipality of Tizimín within the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve.

Nowadays, known as "The Capital of the Mayan Orient", Valladolid is one of the two Magical Towns of Yucatán. It is a beautiful destination, since it has kept the architectural beauty of its ancestral colonial buildings.

Unique experiences

No. 221 Beer Spa at Uxmal

Close to the Archaeological Zone of Uxmal, you can enjoy this unique experience in the entire state, a beer spa!

No. 120 Kaan Ac Hacienda

Kaan Ac Hacienda, built in the 16th century, is located in the Magic Town of Valladolid. It has a unique architecture in the region...

No. 300 Practice Sailing at Telchac Port

Discover the incredible beaches of Riviera Yucatán and learn to navigate at the same time. The Yucatecan coast is one of the best...

No. 365 Alacranes Reef Experience

Alacranes Reef National Park is a set of small islands of coral origin, located 80.7 miles to the north of Progreso Port in Yucatán.

No. 094 Scuba diving in Sisal

A new experience available in the Magic Town of Sisal, scuba diving in the sea, available only during certain seasons of the year, with...

No. 015 Snorkeling in Sisal

Discover Sisal’s nature, a small and picturesque port, learn about the history of the first port in Yucatán.

No. 280 Tekax Chapel look-out

Tekax’s historic downtown is undoubtedly a must visit for all those who seek to learn more about the cultural richness of the region.

No. 351 Skate Park in Progreso

Nothing better than enjoying the sea breeze while practicing an outdoors sport, skating and its urban movement lovers will...

No. 178 Experience at Silcer Boardwalk

A day pass in one of the most beautiful beaches in Yucatán, in Silcer boardwalk at Progreso, in an assigned sunbed...

A paradise of world recognition

Valladolid, best destination to visit.

Yucatan, State of Peace

Merida, Best Small City in the World

Valladolid, Best emerging destination

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17 Top Family-Friendly Destinations in Mexico [2024]

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Table of Contents

Mexico travel safety, the 7 best family destinations in the yucatan peninsula and the riviera maya, the 2 best family destinations in central mexico, the 4 best family destinations in western mexico, the 2 best family destinations in southern mexico, the 2 best family destinations in baja california sur, final thoughts.

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One of the best family vacation spots in the world, Mexico is home to endless natural wonders, miles upon miles of stunning shoreline, and numerous historical and cultural attractions. The country is nearly two-thirds the size of Western Europe with plenty for families to see and do. Plus, it’s easy to get to , located just south of the U.S., with many nonstop flights between the 2 countries.

If your family wants to explore Mexico, you’re in luck. Families and kids are generally greeted with a warm welcome, and many areas are ideal for family travelers .

Whether you’re worried about safety, wondering about family-friendly activities, or just don’t know exactly where to start, these are the best family vacation spots in Mexico, whether you’re traveling with a baby, kids, or teens.

While Mexico is an outstanding family travel destination, traveler safety in Mexico is largely location-dependent. The U.S. Department of State recommends that travelers exercise increased caution and has travel advisories for some areas.

Mexico has been a safe destination for Katie Seemann , senior content contributor and news editor for Upgraded Points, who said:

“I’ve been to Mexico 9 times, and I’ve never had an experience where I felt unsafe. I’ve traveled with my husband, my daughter, my extended family, and by myself, and I haven’t experienced any safety issues while staying at luxury resorts ( Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos , JW Marriott Cancun , and La Casa de la Playa ), a scuba diving resort ( Blue Angel Resort in Cozumel), on cruises, and touring the Yucatan Peninsula on a small group trip with G Adventures .” Katie Seemann

Seemann recommends common sense precautions, including arranging transportation ahead of time, not walking alone at night, and not wearing any expensive jewelry. 

I’ll start with one of the most popular areas for U.S. travelers: the Yucatan Peninsula and the Riviera Maya in the Mexican region of Quintana Roo . While there is some overlap between these destinations, the Riviera Maya is south of Cancún, including Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos. Meanwhile, the Yucatan Peninsula encompasses the entire region, including Cancún, Isla Holbox, and interior cities such as Izamal.

From cenotes to ruins and all-inclusive hotels, there’s so much to do in this region of Mexico, which is simple to get to and well-connected to the U.S. Many destinations are touted by family travelers as being extremely safe, too. Here’s where you should go, see, and do with your family in this region of Mexico.

It isn’t news to anyone that Cancún is a family-friendly Mexican destination, with dozens of all-inclusive hotels — many of which have waterparks .

Upgraded Points reader Marisa, a resident of the Chicago suburbs, felt very safe in Cancún on a recent vacation with her husband and 3 children. She stayed in a family-friendly, all-inclusive Iberostar resort (part of the IHG portfolio) with lots of activities for the kids and parents alike.

Marisa recommends booking transport from the Cancún airport ahead of time :

“While I never felt particularly unsafe, it can be overwhelming, with a lot of people offering you rides while you’re trying to keep track of your luggage and your kids. Booking your transport ahead and knowing exactly where to go to meet your driver minimizes your risk of getting scammed or having issues.” Marisa, Upgraded Points reader

Once you’re in Cancún, you can head to Ventura Park to experience big waterslides or the El Rey Ruins , both of which are within easy reach of most hotels. You can also head further afield with day trips to cenotes or snorkeling tours. Boat excursions, especially on a pirate ship, are particularly family-friendly.

If your hotel doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, consider getting a day pass to one with a waterpark or additional kid-friendly activities (our guide to the best things to do in and around Canc ú n has great tips!).

Check out our Cancún resources, including the best all-inclusive resorts in Cancún , the best websites for Cancún vacation packages and deals , the best Cancún hotels to book with points , and t he best all-inclusive family resorts in Cancún with water parks .

2. Playa del Carmen

While Playa del Carmen doesn’t have quite as much going on as Cancún, it’s still home to many all-inclusive resorts with kids’ clubs and activities. The Xcaret Park is a theme park that features an aviary, a butterfly pavilion, and a coral reef aquarium.

If you’re tired of sand and sun, or a tropical downpour ruins your outdoor plans, the 3D Museum of Wonders is an excellent alternative for a quick dose of art and culture.

Families that love nature should head to Cozumel, an island surrounded by a reef that is ideal for snorkeling . The best way to arrive is by ferry from Playa del Carmen.

You can stay on the more developed western side of the island, but definitely explore the wilder eastern side if you want to get away from the crowds. Don’t forget to visit Punta Sur , an ecological park home to crocodile-filled lagoons and a lighthouse.

4. Puerto Morelos

One of the best family vacation spots in Mexico, Puerto Morelos is less than an hour’s drive from Cancún but has a completely different feel. The charming town feels world’s away from many of the resort areas along the Riviera Maya but still offers some family-friendly hotels , such as the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort , an all-suite Marriott hotel that has kid-friendly amenities like a water park, bowling space, trampoline park, and more.

Puerto Morelos has a welcoming town center complete with local music and dance performances, a weekend craft market, and a fun playground for children.

5. Isla Mujeres

Just a short ferry ride away from Cancún, Isla Mujeres is nice for young kids because you don’t have to worry about cars and traffic . The island is car-free, though many people ride around on golf carts , which the kids find fun.

Bring the family to Aquatic Funday Park for waterpark fun or Garrafon Park for snorkeling and ziplining over the water. Mia Reef Isla Mujeres is one of the top-rated resorts on the island for families, featuring a white, sandy beach with shallow waves.

Many hotels in Mexico outside of Cancún aren’t bookable with points. But don’t forget that the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers a $300 annual Capital One Travel credit for booking travel in the Capital One Travel portal. Plus, you’ll earn lots of bonus Capital One miles on your accommodation, like 10x bonus miles for hotels booked within the portal.

According to the World Population Review , Tulum is one of the safest cities in Mexico . While you can fly into Cancún with your family and drive to Tulum, you can also fly nonstop from certain U.S. hubs, (including Houston, Chicago, L.A., and Newark ) into the Tulum Airport (TQO) .

Although Tulum used to have the image of a boho chic adult paradise, hotels are family-friendly these days. We love the Bahia Principe Grand Tulum , which has separate kids’ and teens’ clubs, plus a water park and splash park for the littlest ones.

The Tulum town center and the beach aren’t right next to each other, so plan your vacation style, transportation, and accommodation accordingly to where you plan to spend the most time.

The capital of Mexico’s Yucatan state , this destination is for families looking for something a bit different. It’s best for families who want to experience culture in addition to beaches. Start with Turibus and trolley tours of the city, and hop off when you see a lively square or handicraft market.

Sundays are a great time to be in the city — you won’t be the only family walking around catching live music and dancing in the squares, as the streets are closed to cars and perfect for pedestrians. There’s also a Mayan artisan market and a free zoo, as well as many cenotes within easy reach of the city.

From the country’s capital, Mexico City, to smaller villages and mid-size towns, central Mexico is a top family vacation spot for those ready to explore culture, art, and cuisine . These destinations aren’t exclusive to families with older children, as many central Mexican destinations have numerous parks and playgrounds where kids can blow off some steam after visiting a museum. Here’s where you should go.

1. Mexico City

Mexico City’s fancy hotels are relatively affordable , offering a nice way to give your family a luxurious and safe accommodation experience without overspending. From Chinatown to the National Museum of Anthropology to the Xochimilco boats and Teotihuacán ruins outside the city, there are many activities for kids in the capital. Don’t miss Alameda Central, one of the oldest parks in the Americas, or Bosque de Chapultepec, a wooded paradise on the outskirts of town.

Don’t be concerned about safety in Mexico City. Upgraded Points reader Lauren, a British citizen who’s lived there for about a decade, says the central neighborhoods where tourists congregate are safe for families:

“There are ample parks, wide pavements, and lots of greenery, especially in popular spots like Roma, Condesa, and even Polanco. The only things that might pose a problem are the cracked and uneven pavements — they’re not very stroller-friendly.” Lauren, Upgraded Points reader

Take general precautions when walking at night and with your belongings, as you would in any large city.

2. San Miguel de Allende

Families that want a truly picturesque vacation in Mexico should travel to San Miguel de Allende , a colonial town painted in bold colors of pink and yellow. The whole family will love roaming around the city center’s charming streets, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stopping to admire the dazzling pink Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel church.

Head to the edge of town to visit El Charco del Ingenio , a botanical garden full of exotic plants, flowers, and cacti.  Various hot springs are a short drive away if you get tired of visiting the city’s many art galleries and museums or strolling the verdant Parque Juarez.

Western Mexico is an easier and closer choice for residents living in the Western U.S. Beaches on this side of the country have more golden than white sand and larger waves than those off the Yucatan Peninsula, but you can usually count on less sargassum, a seaweed that often plagues the Atlantic side. These are some of the top spots to visit.

1. Puerto Vallarta

This beach resort town offers activities, including the Aquaventuras Water Park, as well as ziplines and animal sanctuaries for tropical birds and monkeys. More nature-friendly excursions include the town’s blooming Vallarta Botanical Gardens and hikes and walks through the nearby Sierra Madre mountains and jungle.

Families can also catch cultural events, like traditional music and dancing, at the Los Arcos Amphitheater. Although the town has a buzzing nightlife scene, you can skip it by hanging out at a family-friendly resort like the Sheraton Buganvilias Resort , which has a few pools and a kids’ activity center.

2. Sayulita

For a more laid-back, local experience, families can go to Sayulita along the Riviera Nayarit, which is especially ideal if you have older children or teens and want to enjoy family surf experiences. Although the waves are often large, the nearby Playa de los Muertos is a more sheltered beach with smaller swells.

Kids will love watching turtles hatch at the Sayulita Turtle Camp. Known as one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos, families can wander the colorful town center, home to murals, colonial buildings, craft markets, leafy squares, and lots of tasty street food.

3. Punta Mita

Families in the market for luxury resorts should head to Punta Mita, just a half-hour’s drive from Sayulita. This destination is home to properties where families can relax with all the amenities, such as the Conrad Punta Mita (complete with a waterslide and various pools — and kids eat free) and the Four Seasons Punta Mita , which has baby-care baskets and surf lessons for kids.

Consider taking a boat trip to the nearby Marietas Islands (known as Mexico’s version of the Galapagos), home to manta rays, sea turtles, humpback whales, wild dolphins, and the blue-footed booby birds, which, indeed, have blue feet.

Certain hotels, such as the Four Seasons Punta Mita, don’t have a traditional loyalty program with points. But you can book this hotel (and many others) on American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts using The Platinum Card ® from American Express to perks including room upgrades, daily breakfast for 2, a $100 experience credit, and late checkout. Cardholders also get up to $200 prepaid hotel credit when paying with their Amex Platinum card. Additionally, you can get the fourth night free if you book qualifying dates.

4. Zihuatanejo

Escape the larger resorts for a relaxed beach town feel in Zihuatanejo, where the golden sands of Playa La Ropa welcome everyone. Families can learn about turtle conservation at Campamento Tortuguero Ayotlcalli , a rescue center where kids can release baby sea turtles or participate in summer camp-style activities, like arts and crafts and Spanish classes.

Families will have a blast exploring and taste testing at food markets like Mercado Zanka , which has a casual picnic table area and live music — no one will notice (or care) if your baby is fussy and your kids are running around.

All-inclusive resorts can be particularly apt for families. They offer activities and fun things to do for kids and adults of all ages, making it easy for everyone to relax and enjoy. Here’s how to get the most out of your all-inclusive stay .

Mexico’s shape doesn’t have exact corners, but we consider the southern area to be the bottom point running into the Guatemalan border. This region of Mexico is one of the furthest from the U.S. and not quite as easily accessible. It’s managed to retain a bit more local charm that many families looking for a more far-flung, authentic Mexican vacation will find idyllic.

Families will be mesmerized by the colorful colonial architecture and the friendly, local ambiance of Oaxaca. Especially apt for families who prefer a vacation rental over an all-inclusive resort, it’s easy to find an Airbnb with family amenities available, like washers and cribs.

From the playgrounds at Parque Llano to the murals, colors, and flags of the Jataltaco neighborhood, your kids will have plenty to do and see. And if they get cranky, just serve them up some hot chocolate or nieves (fruit ices), which are both popular in the region. Nearby, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán , ancient archeological Zapotec ruins.

2. Puerto Escondido

Families that want to escape the party vibes of destinations like Cancún or Puerto Vallarta and just chill out in a laid-back beach town should head to Puerto Escondido, which is sort of a mini version of Zihuantejo. While there are many beaches to choose from, Playa Principal is one of the most protected ones with the lowest waves, which makes the area popular for surfing.

Wildlife watching is easy with family boat tours, where you can spot dolphins and whales. There are also local conservation programs where you can release turtles or protect local iguanas.

Another destination ideal for families living on the western side of the U.S., Baja California Sur is the bottom of the peninsula that extends down into Mexico below California. Some families may prefer the fancy, all-inclusive resorts of Los Cabos, but you can also rent a car and explore sleepy fishing towns and other family-friendly spots. Here’s where to go.

Located on the east side of the Baja Peninsula along the Sea of Cortez, Loreto’s vast beaches have low waves ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Parents will love to admire the jagged rock formations that rise up from the sea, while the kids will love spotting sea lions, whales, and wild dolphins.

Deemed a Pueblo Mágico , Loreto was one of the first Spanish colonial towns along the Baja Peninsula and is home to a number of missionaries.

2. Los Cabos

It’s true that Los Cabos can be a bit of a scene — yachts, nightlife, and glamorous hotels. But it’s also a fun spot for families looking for all-inclusive resorts and lots to do. The beaches often have very big waves, so you may want to book a hotel with a pool so everyone can get in the water.

For example, the Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos has several pools, including a kids’ pool with slides. Hotel staff will ring a bell on the beach to alert guests of whale spottings! Similar to the Riviera Maya and Cancún, families can enjoy pirate boat rides and zipline adventures in the area.

It’s easy and affordable for families to get to Mexico. The country welcomes children, babies, and families with open arms. Although the news may say otherwise, many tourist regions of the country are safe to visit. In fact, destinations like Tulum, Sayulita, Mexico City, Cancún, and San Miguel de Allende top the list of the country’s safest cities .

While you should always carefully research your destination to find out if it’s a good fit for your family, you really can’t go wrong with any of these family vacation spots in Mexico on this list.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What part of mexico is best for a family vacation.

There are so many family-friendly places in Mexico, from the beaches of the Riviera Maya to the parks of Mexico City and the charming small towns along the Riviera Nayarit, like Sayulita. 

Is Mexico a good family holiday destination?

Mexico is a great family holiday destination.  Whether  you want authentic Mexican cuisine and culture, nature activities, sandy beach fun, or all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts , Mexico has it all .

What is the safest city in Mexico for families?

Many cities are safe for families in Mexico, including Tulum, Sayulita, Mexico City, Cancún, and San Miguel de Allende.

What is the safest part of Mexico to vacation?

Tourist-catered areas are some of the safest places for a vacation. Consider spots such as Cancun, Oaxaca, or Los Cabos for your next Mexico family vacation.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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Best Things to Do in the Yucatan with Kids in 2024

T here are plenty of things to do in the Yucatan with kids. So, if you are considering a family trip to Mexico but you are not sure how you are going to keep the little ones occupied and happy, rest assured, you will not be short of things to do.

The Yucatan is one of the most historical and culturally-rich parts of Mexico. Better yet, it is also one of the safest areas to travel in the country.

You could easily dedicate a month to exploring the Yucatan peninsula and still feel as though you have barely scratched the surface of everything this vibrant region has to offer. 

About the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula is a large landmass located in southeastern Mexico, separating the Caribbean Sea from the Gulf of Mexico. It is primarily composed of the Mexican states of Yucatan, Quintana Roo, and Campeche. 

The country of Belize and a part of Guatemala is also located on the peninsula.

However, the Yucatan Peninsula is best known for its popular tourist destinations in Mexico, including the renowned beach resort city of Cancun, the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum, and the beautiful coastal town of Playa del Carmen. 

With a tropical climate, dense jungles, and stunning coral reefs, the area is teeming with wildlife, including various bird species, jaguars, monkeys, and sea turtles.

Where to stay in the Yucatan Peninsula with kids

Many visitors to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula stay in one of the region’s most popular tourist cities, like Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen . You’ll find lots of family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts as well as boutique hotels and apartments to rent in all three.

But for a more authentic experience, head to the north coast of the peninsula to the coastal city of Mérida. The capital of Yucatan, Mérida is a great place for families and has been named the safest city in Mexico and the second safest city in North America!

Things to do in the Yucatan with kids

While many people associate the Yucatan Peninsula with Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum, there are so many more unique places to visit in the Yucatan with kids. Here are a few fun things to do in the Yucatan for kids and adults alike!

Visit Sendero Jurásico in Chicxulub

Unless you are highly into history, you may not have heard of Chicxulub . This small, sleepy fishing town is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Yucatan .

However, Chicxulub is also the area where the meteor that wiped out the dinosaurs hit the earth some 45,000,000 years ago! When the meteor hit, it didn’t just kill off the dinosaurs, it wiped out more than 85% of the animals living on earth at that time. Unfortunately, you cannot see the impact site as it is beneath the water.

However, a nice thing to do in the area if traveling in the Yucatan with kids is to visit the Sendero Jur ási co . This dinosaur-themed park sits right beside where the meteor hit.

You drive through the park in the same way that you would in a safari park. As you go, you will pass gigantic life size models of dinosaurs.

The park intends to provide an educational experience for children but it can be fun and interesting for all the family. You can stop and take photos with the dinosaurs and when you exit the park, there is a stall to buy dinosaur balloons, toys and other souvenirs.

You can spend the morning at the park. Then, grab lunch in the nearby beach town of Progreso and spend the afternoon swimming in the translucent blue waters at Progreso beach.

Pet the mini pigs at Pig Beach

In Yucalpeten , on the outskirts of the town of Progreso, there is a gorgeous stretch of coastline that has been named “pig beach”. This is on account of 8 adorable little mini pigs that were sadly found abandoned here at the end of 2021.

Although a tropical beach is not exactly a natural habitat for pigs, the animals have adapted well to their surroundings. They continue to live on the white sands of the beach and are cared for by volunteers of a local animal charity.

The pigs have a little pen where they snooze a lot of the time. However they are also let out to enjoy the beach as they please.

Kids will love swimming with the piggies and petting them. The animals have grown accustomed to being around humans and are very friendly and receptive to attention. 

Think of this as Mexico’s answer to pig beach in the Bahamas. You can purchase T-shirts, hats and other merchandise at the little stall at the entrance and all proceeds go towards helping the pigs.

Learn to kitesurf in El Cuyo

El Cuyo is one of the Yucatan’s best-kept secrets , at least for the time being. While tourists flock in mass to places like Cancun and Tulum, the beach at El Cuyo offers a secluded, tranquil slice of paradise. You could think of El Cuyo as how Tulum was some 15 years or so ago.

El Cuyo is little more than a long, gorgeous stretch of coastline with a few hotels and restaurants scattered along its length. You will often find that you have it virtually all to yourself. The sunsets and sunrises from here are breathtaking and sunrises are well worth getting up early for.

The conditions on the far end of the beach are perfect for kitesurfing and that is the main reason why a little community settled here. Kitesurfing enthusiasts from across the world venture to El Cuyo to ride the waves in this tropical paradise.

Even if you have never tried kitesurfing before or even considered it, you may enjoy taking a lesson from one of the academies here.

When visiting the Yucatan with kids, children aged 10 and above can also have beginners lessons under the careful supervision of experienced kitesurfers.

See flamingos in Celestun

Many birds and animal species call the Yucatan their home and many are indigenous to this part of the world. One of the most beautiful (and loved by kids!) is perhaps the American pink flamingo.

Depending on what time of year you visit Mexico, you may have the opportunity to see the birds in their natural habitat. Between November and April every year, more than 40,000 flamingos nest at the Ria Biosphere reserve in Celestun .

You can take a boat through the lakes and waterways of reserves to see the flamingos. This is a protected nature reserve and fortunately, the people that work here are very respectful of the animals. They allow you to get close enough to see them while maintaining a respectful distance.

As you navigate through the waters, your guide will share many interesting facts about the birds and the other animals that live here. For example, did you know that flamingos are not born pink? They get their vibrant red color from the red brine shrimp that they eat!

During your boat tour, you may be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of other creatures in this area. For instance, crocodiles and pelicans.

Watch a Pok-a-Tok reenactment in Merida

Pok-a-Tok is the name of the ballgame that was played by the Ancient Maya throughout Mesoamerica. You can see the remains of old Pok-a-Tok ball courts at several Mayan cities such as Uxmal and Chichen Itza in the Yucatan and Teotihuacan outside of Mexico City .

The game was extremely challenging; players had to get a heavy rubber ball through stone hoops that were mounted very high on the walls. They were not allowed to touch the ball with their hands and they had to try and hit it through the hoops using their hips!

The game is no longer played today. However if you spend some time in the Yucatan capital of Merida , you will be able to see a reenactment that takes place every Friday evening in front of the Merida cathedral.

The game is free to watch and fun to see. 

To help prepare kids for your family trip to the Yucatan, the animated movie “The Road to El Dorado” shows the game of Pok-a-Tok being played. The film follows the story of two Spanish men who go on an adventure to an Ancient Mayan city.

Like many animated movies with real life settings and historical references, “The Road to El Dorado” is a great way to expose children to Mayan culture before your travels.

Visit Chichen Itza and other ruins

No trip to the Yucatan is complete without visiting Chichen Itza . The historic city dates back to the early 400s AD and is one of the “new” seven wonders of the world.

The city is actually much larger than photos and social media posts would make you think. You need a good 2-3 hours to explore it in its entirety.

There are other Mayan cities that are equally deserving of your time. Uxmal, Mayapan, Ek Balam and Dzibilchaltun are also fascinating. However if you only have time (or your kids only have the attention span) for one Mayan ruin, Chichen Itza is a good shout.

Try and get there first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds and the intensity of the midday sun. The site opens at 8am daily, and it is a good idea to be there as soon as it opens or book a skip-the-line entrance ticket or an early access tour .

You can hire a guide for 200 pesos in order to learn more about the various structures and their history or book a guided tour online that includes a visit to Chichen Itza, the town of Valladolid, and the Saamal Cenote.

Older kids will love hearing some of the gruesome stories behind some of the buildings. For example, the cenote where human sacrifices were made or the platform where human heads were stacked in a line to scare off other tribes!

Mayan culture is an important part of history in Mexico and throughout Central America.

Aside from Mexico, you’ll find fascinating Mayan ruins in Belize and in Guatemala , home to Tikal , one of the largest Mayan archeological sites ever discovered.

Play paintball in an abandoned ghost town

The ghost town of Misnebalam is an abandoned settlement just 25 minutes north of the city of Merida. During the henequen boom, the town was home to a glorious hacienda and over 150 workers.

Sadly, the town eventually fell into abandon and disrepair, and the final residents moved out in 2005.

Time has seen the old hacienda, the church, and various other houses here become overgrown and reclaimed by nature. All of this gives the area an eerie vibe that feels almost as if you are exploring a movie set.

One of the most popular unofficial activities in the area is now… paintball! If you stop by here on weekends, you will see groups of local kids and teens from the nearby villages playing paintball with each other.

In the village of Sac Nicte, you can buy and borrow equipment from the convenience stores. Misnebalam is safe, and if you are visiting with older teens, they will love having a paintball match with their family and the locals in a place that looks like something straight out of a horror movie!

Visit El Corchito and an island of raccoons

On the outskirts of Progreso beach town and close to Sendera Jurasico, you will find the island in the El Corchito Reserve. The is a small island in the center of the protected nature reserve that is home to dozens of raccoons (“mapachas” in Spanish).

The island is open from 8am until 3pm daily and a small wooden boat transports you to and from it. The queue for the boat sometimes looks quite long but tends to move quite quickly.

Here you can see the raccoons in their natural habitats. There are also several walking trails around the small tropical island that are pleasant when it isn’t too hot.

Pack your swimsuit and towel as there is also a small cenote here where you can swim.

Visit XCaret Ecological Theme Park

Xcaret Park stands out as one of the best things to do on the Yucatan Peninsula, especially when exploring the region with kids. 

This magnificent ecological theme park offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

From thrilling water activities in crystal-clear underground rivers to vibrant cultural shows that showcase the rich traditions of Mexico, Xcaret Park offers an array of attractions that captivate children’s imaginations. 

Kids can snorkel among colorful marine life, swim in natural pools, and interact with dolphins or turtles in a safe and educational environment. They can also learn about Mayan history through interactive exhibits and witness impressive archaeological sites. 

Xcaret Park is considered one of the top tourist attractions in Mexico and ranks among the best things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula with kids.

Swim in the Yucatan cenotes

When the Chicxulub meteor smashed into the earth all those millions of years ago, it massively weakened the earth’s surface. In its wake, it created cenotes: underwater sinkholes.

There are more than 7,000 cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula ! Today, locals and tourists love to go swimming in cenotes but historically, the Mayans would use them for spiritual and religious rituals.

It can be fun to visit several different cenotes. Many are inside dramatic caves with incredible rock formations and stalagmites inside.

Sometimes, entrances to cenotes are little more than just holes in the ground with ladders leading down into the darkness and no indication of what is inside.

Of course, safety can be a concern when visiting cenotes with children but rest-assured, there are plenty of family-friendly options.

Homun is a little town in the center of the Yucatan with more than 30 cenotes! Many of the cenotes here are good for children and people that cannot swim.

Several have platforms above the water where you can simply sit and dip your legs in the water if you don’t want to swim. You will be able to rent life jackets for adults and children for a very small fee.

A good thing to do in Homun is to take a cenote tour via a tuk tuk. For 200 pesos, you board the back of a motorbike taxi and your driver will take you to 4-5 cenotes throughout the day.

You can specify to your driver what kinds of cenotes that you are looking for and they will take you to a place that meets your preferences. For instance, cenotes that aren’t known by tourists, cenotes with platforms for kids that can’t swim, etc.

Sample the local food

One of the main highlights of traveling to Mexico is experimenting with local food. Like the food unique to Mexico City , the Yucatan area is home to its own cuisine that dates back thousands of years and is only available in this part of the country.

Many Yucatecan recipes used today still follow the same cooking methods that the Ancient Maya used!

One of the most popular and beloved regional dishes is cochinita pibil – slow cooked, marinated pork that is cooked in an underground oven known as a “pib”. The meat is seasoned with orange rind and achiote and has a unique flavor. Think of it as the ancient version of pulled pork!

Marquesitas (Yucatecan crepes), pollo pibil (slow cooked marinated chicken breast) and queso relleno (Edam cheese stuffed with beef and pork) are unique dishes that you should add to your radar.

For the best local food experience, dine at a blend of street food markets and local restaurants.

Get your adrenaline pumping at XPlor 

Xplor is an exhilarating adventure park operated by XCaret that promises an adrenaline-packed experience. Located in the heart of the Riviera Maya, Xplor offers a wide range of thrilling activities that cater to adventure enthusiasts of all ages. 

From zip-lining high above the lush jungle canopy to navigating through underground rivers in a raft or by swimming, the park provides an immersive and action-packed day for visitors. 

Kids and adults alike can unleash their inner explorer as they conquer challenging obstacles, drive amphibious vehicles through the jungle, and marvel at the stunning stalactite formations as they swim through the frigid underground rivers. 

Take a cooking class or food tour

A really fun and hands-on activity for all the family is to take a cooking class. You will find these in Merida as well as in some touristic hotels and resorts.

Learn how to make traditional Yucatecan and Mexican classic dishes. When you get back home, you will be able to wow your friends and family with the international fare you serve at dinner parties.

Many cooking classes also include a market tour portion of the activity. So, you will navigate your way through a bustling local market accompanied by your expert guide.

Seeing Mexican mercados is an experience in itself. Watch on as locals haggle with street vendors over the price of the ingredients for their Sunday dinner.

The colorful stalls stacked high with unfamiliar fruit and veg are a photographer’s dream!

Have a question or comment about visiting Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula with kids? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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The 6 Best Travel Cameras To Take Better Photos On Your Next Vacation

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No matter how great your smartphone is, its camera can’t quite compete with a great dedicated camera. Travel cameras allow you to take excellent photos using a compact device that easily fits in a bag or even a pocket, so it doesn’t weigh you down on a trip. We think the OM System OM-5 is the best travel camera overall because it has excellent image stabilization and can take interchangeable lenses.

Sometimes you want more than a phone camera to document your epic trip. These are some of the best ... [+] travel cameras.

There are great models for amateurs and professionals alike, ensuring anyone can take their travel photography to the next level. After testing and extensive research, we’ve narrowed down hundreds of options to recommend quality models for every shooter in a variety of price ranges and with a variety of features.

• Best Travel Camera Overall: OM System OM-5 Camera (Body Only)
• Best Budget Travel Camera: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Camera
• Best Compact Travel Camera: Fujifilm X100VI Camera
• Best Point-And-Shoot Travel Camera: Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 VII Camera
• Best Travel Camera For Vlogging: Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera For Content Creators
• Best Travel Action Camera: GoPro Hero12 Black Action Camera

Best Travel Camera Overall

Instantly level up your travel photography, om system om-5 camera (body only).

Dimensions: 4.9 x 2 x 3.4 inches (body only) | Sensor size: Four thirds | Image resolution: 20 megapixels | Video resolution: 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 120fps | Display: 3 inches | Memory card slots: 1x SDXC UHS-II | Built-in flash: No

Best for: Getting the best travel photography in a compact package.

Those looking for a high-end travel camera in a compact body with versatile functionality should buy the OM System OM-5. The camera is a particularly good choice for photographers who want the flexibility of interchangeable lenses—of course, adding one or multiple lenses makes it slightly less portable than some of the other options on this list. The camera boasts a huge range of features, including things like in-body stabilization and interesting computational photography modes. In particular, this camera boasts great in-body stabilization, ensuring crisp and detailed images even for longer exposures.

The camera is a little more expensive than some might want, especially amateurs who only want something to use on vacation. Additionally, the camera has a slightly older processor, and it charges through a Micro-USB charging port instead of the USB-C charging port we would expect in 2024. Those, however, are relatively minor issues considering the stunning image quality for the price.

What the reviews say: Reviewers on Amazon are particularly impressed with the image stabilization. “Excellent camera for vacations and general photography. Sharpness and image quality is very good. Image stabilization is outstanding. I can hand-hold 1/2 second exposures and get a sharp image.”

• Interchangeable lenses
• Excellent image stabilization
• Cool retro design
• Less compact with interchangeable lenses
• Micro-USB charging port
• Slightly aging processor

Best Budget Travel Camera

Up-to-date image quality with a retro body, olympus om-d e-m10 mark iv camera.

Dimensions: 4.8 x 3.3 x 2.6 inches | Sensor size: Four thirds | Image resolution: 20 megapixels | Video resolution: 4K at 30fps, 720p at 120fps | Display: 3 inches | Memory card slots: 1x SDXC UHS-II | Built-in flash: No

Best for: Top-tier travel photography at a reasonable price.

It’s worth paying a little for a decent camera if you want something better than your phone, but you don’t necessarily have to pay more than $1,000 or so. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a perfect example of this. It’s not necessarily cheap , but it is more affordable than many of the other options on this list, while still offering an excellent image quality and solid video quality. The camera has five-axis stabilization for more crisp photos, and it has a three-inch display that can flip down for easier viewing depending on your positioning. It’s very compact, too, and it supports hundreds of relatively affordable, compact lenses.

There are some trade-offs when you buy a more affordable camera. This camera also has a Micro-USB port, and there’s no microphone input to be able to sync audio from an external microphone. Some may consider the 4K 30fps video to be a little low, however it’s to be expected for a camera in this price range. However, the camera still gets the basics right—like a solid image quality with good stabilization. As an added bonus, it has an awesome retro design, too.

What the reviews say: Reviewers on Amazon found the camera to be high-quality, while being highly portable. “I bought this for a month-long trip through Europe and it served me well. The pictures are high quality and clear, while the camera is lightweight and durable.”

• Hundreds of affordable lens options
• Reasonable price
• Great image and video quality
• Micro-USB port
• No microphone input

Best Compact Travel Camera

Keep your camera in your pocket, fujifilm x100vi camera.

Dimensions: 5 x 3 x 2.2 inches | Sensor size: APS-C | Image resolution: 40 megapixels | Video resolution: 6.2K at 30fps, 4K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps | Display: 3 inches | Memory card slots: SDXC | Built-in flash: Yes

Best for: Excellent image quality in an ultracompact camera that can fit in your pocket.

Those who want something ultracompact should buy the Fujifilm X100VI. You may note that the dimensions of this camera are similar or even slightly larger than some of the other cameras on this list, but this camera does not have interchangeable lenses, and instead has a relatively slim lens fixed to the body. Thankfully, the camera still boasts an excellent image quality with good depth, and it can capture high-resolution video, at up to a 6.2K resolution. It has good in-body stabilization too, which helps produce crisp images.

Unfortunately, the camera is more expensive than many of the alternatives, but since you have to buy separate lenses for other options, that gap closes a little. Additionally, the focus on the camera isn’t super fast, but thankfully it’s not overly slow either.

What the reviews say: Reviews by customers on B&H note that the camera is a worthy upgrade from other Fujifilm models. “The camera is awesome. I was afraid it wasn’t worth upgrading. But it is such an improvement from the X100F.”

• Compact build
• High-resolution video
• Good image stabilization
• Lens focus isn’t super fast

Best Point-And-Shoot Travel Camera

Easy to use at a moment's notice, sony cyber-shot rx100 vii camera.

Dimensions: 4 x 2.3 x 1.7 inches | Sensor size: 1 inch | Image resolution: 20.1 megapixels | Video resolution: 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 100fps | Display: 3 inches | Memory card slots: SDXC | Built-in flash: Yes

Best for: Quick photography when you need it.

Those looking for a super compact point-and-shoot camera to take on their travels should buy the Sony RX100 VII. This camera is small but mighty, offering a host of high-end features and the ability to take excellent photos despite its small size. Notably, it has some of the best autofocus tech in the game, meaning that you can take photos faster than ever. While it has a built-in lens, it’s relatively versatile and can zoom to up to 8x. The camera offers digital-stabilization tech that’s generally good for shooting casual video.

Be a little careful when using the camera, as it isn’t the most rugged, and there’s no waterproofing. Additionally, the camera is a little more expensive than other options, even those that offer more features and versatility. However, if you’re looking for ultracompact and don’t mind spending a little to get it, then the Sony RX100 VII is the way to go.

What the reviews say: Reviewers on B&H note that the camera is a powerhouse for its size. “This little camera is truly remarkable. I’m a professional photojournalist and own a number of mirrorless alpha bodies; I bought this camera for hiking and skiing because it fits easily into almost any pocket.”

• Highly versatile lens
• Very portable size
• Sleek design
• Not the most rugged
• A bit expensive

Best Travel Camera For Vlogging

A content-creation powerhouse in a tiny body, sony zv-1 digital camera for content creators.

Dimensions: 4.2 x 2.4 x 1.7 inches | Sensor size: 1 inch | Image resolution: 20 megapixels | Video resolution: 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 120fps | Display: 3 inches | Memory card slots: SDXC | Built-in flash: No

Best for: Vloggers who want solid video and audio on the go.

Vloggers or videographers who want something high-end to take on the go should buy the Sony ZV-1. This camera offers a range of features to make vlogging even easier, plus it has a compact build that makes it easy to pack it in a bag or pocket. Perhaps the best feature is the side-flipping camera that allows you to see your shot when you’re filming yourself. Video quality is excellent, and the camera is able to capture bright, vibrant video all the time. Additionally, the camera has a hot shoe and 3.5mm microphone port, so you can easily set up external microphones for better audio.

The camera is able to capture 4K video at up to 30 frames per second, which may be too low for videographers who rely on slow-motion shots but still want 4K footage. Thankfully, it does support up to 120 fps when shooting at a 1080p resolution. Additionally, while colors are bright and vibrant, the video stabilization isn’t as great as some more expensive options. But it’s still not terrible, especially given the price of the camera.

What the reviews say: A reviewer on Amazon noted that the camera is perfect for their content creation needs. “As a content creator and vlogger, this camera has become an indispensable tool for capturing high-quality videos and photos. The image and video quality is outstanding, with crisp details and vibrant colors that make my content pop.”

• Relatively inexpensive
• Excellent video quality
• Side-flipping screen for self-video
• 4K maxes out at 30fps
• Video stabilization is only fine

Best Travel Action Camera

Capture your skydiving—or just your pool-diving, gopro hero12 black action camera.

Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.0 x 1.3 inches | Sensor size: 1/1.9 inch | Image resolution: 27 megapixels | Video resolution: 5.3K at 60fps, 4K at 120fps, 2.7K at 240fps | Display: 2.27-inch rear, 1.4-inch front | Memory card slots: MicroSD UHS-III | Built-in flash: No

Best for: Capturing the action other cameras wouldn’t survive in.

GoPro has long offered the best action cam experience, and the GoPro Hero12 Black is the best one yet. This camera offers a massive range of features for those who want to capture the action, including the ability to capture footage at a hefty 5.3K at 60 frames per second or 4K at 120 fps. Downgrade to a still-solid 2.7K and you can capture footage at 240 fps—perfect for those ultra slow-mo shots. The camera has a display on both the front and the back, making it a great choice for those who want to capture themselves.

It’s a little hard to compare this camera with others on this list and talk about image quality. It’s true to say that the Hero12 Black has the worst image quality of any camera on this list. But it’s also a totally different type of camera—built for high-frame-rate video. And, to be fair, it offers among the best image qualities of any action camera out there. It also has a compact body and the ability to survive almost anything. It takes a little time getting used to the menu system, and it costs more than many of the other action cams out there, but it’s worth the price and the time you spend learning how to use it.

What the reviews say: One reviewer on Amazon was particularly impressed with the number of accessories available to the camera. “Video and picture quality is awesome and, with so many accessories available, the options for use and function seem limitless.”

• Very portable
• Tons of video options
• Works with a large range of accessories
• Slightly tricky to navigate
• A bit pricey for an action cam

The Best Patio Furniture Deals For A Summer Refresh

Amazon prime day 2024: everything to know about this year’s sale, why trust forbes vetted.

At Forbes Vetted, we’re proud of our large library of tech and camera articles . We offer dozens of guides about all kinds of cameras, including mirrorless cameras and dash cams .

• This guide was written by Christian de Looper , who has over a decade’s worth of experience writing about consumer technology.
• All picks in this guide were approved by Rebecca Isaacs , Forbes Vetted’s tech editor, a consumer technology expert who has years of experience writing about and covering all the latest gadgets.
• The world of tech and camera equipment moves fast, so we make every effort to keep our content accurate and up-to-date. This article was last updated in May 2024.

How We Chose The Best Travel Cameras

In building this list of the best travel cameras, we leveraged our own expertise and years of experience covering the consumer technology and camera industries as well as reviews from users.

• We identified the different categories of travel cameras, and narrowed our list down to the top products that we’ve tested that are consistently recommended in those categories.
• Factors we considered included things like image quality, video features, portability and when relevant, water-resistance.
• We also pored over reviews from real buyers to make sure others’ experience aligned without own. We didn’t include any options that weren’t top-rated by reviewers.

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12 Comfy, Wrinkle-free Travel Outfits That Never Require an Iron — Under $50 at Amazon

Score flowy dresses, comfy pants, and more, starting at $15.

Travel + Leisure

Effectively packing for any trip is a fine art, but even if you’re able to squeeze everything on your list into a compact carry-on, you may still be left with one more hurdle: wrinkly clothing. Not everyone wants to travel with a portable steamer or trust notoriously finicky hotel irons to smooth out their clothing, so investing in wrinkle-free materials from the jump is a great way to cut down the obstacles between you and a day out enjoying your vacation.

If you’ve been on the lookout for breathable, versatile, and most importantly, wrinkle-resistant apparel to add to your travel wardrobe this summer, we’ve done the hard part for you and parsed through Amazon to locate the 12 best options that you’ll want to have on deck. From breezy wide-leg pants to the perfect maxi dress to wear during a nice dinner out, you’ll have no trouble finding something to make your vacation just a little bit easier — all under $50.

Baleaf Women’s Hiking Pants

These breezy and relaxed-fitting hiking pants may be designed for the trails, but their wrinkle-resistant nature and quick-dry exterior also make them well-suited for staying comfy during travel days without ever showing the telltale creases of an overly-packed suitcase. Made from a breathable blend of polyester and spandex, the lightweight pants will keep you cool during warmer spring days and warm when you reach the peak only to find that harsh winds are blowing. They’re sporty, stylish, and an easy choice of pants that won’t readily wrinkle.

Anrabess Women’s Short Sleeve Casual Maxi Dress

If you’re like me and want to slide into a loose-fitting garment as soon as you arrive at your destination but still want to maintain some semblance of style, this relaxed-fitting dress is the perfect choice for travel days and beyond — and the blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex makes it uniquely resistant to wrinkles, as well. The tiers of this dress add gentle movement that will never leave you feeling weighed down or restricted by too-tight material, while the simple T-shirt design can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion (and what footwear you opt for). From the beach to a nice dinner, you’ll be happy to have this carefree dress at your disposal. 

Ueu Women’s Casual Loose Wide Leg Pants

Your search for the perfect lightweight pants to travel in can finally come to an end because this wide-leg pair from Ueu is flattering, comfortable, and best of all, wrinkle-free. The high-waisted cut makes these pants fit like a charm thanks to an elastic waistband that will never dig in, while a blend of polyester and spandex provides essential stretch so you can settle in for a longhaul flight feeling like you’re wearing pajamas while still looking great. They’re buttery soft, will match with most neutral tops in your suitcase, and are even breathable enough to be worn throughout the summer months without overheating.

Jessie Kidden Women’s UPF 50 Long Sleeve Shirt

A simple white button-down shirt belongs on every packing list regardless of your destination, but if you’re tired of breaking out the hotel iron to avoid looking disheveled, this simple polyester blouse is the way to go. A notoriously wrinkle-free material, polyester is generally a good bet to look for when building a wardrobe of clothing that doesn't require a steamer, and this top is all the evidence that you need that it looks great as well. The quick-dry material is ideal for the summertime when you may be more prone to sweating, and it even features UPF 50+ sun protection if you forgot to apply sunscreen that day. 

Prettygarden Women’s 2-Piece Sleeveless Jumpsuit

A good travel wardrobe should include easy pull-on-and-go outfits that require no extra thought and instantly look great, and this $40 set checks all the boxes — and won’t wrinkle in your suitcase. The ultra-soft polyester and cotton blend material will keep you endlessly comfortable during longhaul flights, walking tours, and more, plus each piece can be styled together or on its own for enhanced versatility in your wardrobe. Best of all, an elastic waistband complete with a drawstring allows these pants to fit as loosely or tightly as you’d prefer, essentially securing its spot as your dream travel outfit.

Lee Women’s Wrinkle Free Relaxed Fit Pants

With more than 15,000 five-star ratings from impressed customers, it’s safe to say that these relaxed-fit pants from Lee are a worthwhile addition to your suitcase — especially while they’re on sale for just $29. Specifically designed to be wrinkle-free in order to make your everyday life just a little bit easier, these pants can be paired with everything and will instantly allow you to look pulled together and ready to hit the road. Whether you’re preparing for a business trip, a nice dinner, or even a day of sightseeing, these polished pants should make it into your suitcase for every occasion, no iron required.

Merokeety Women’s Summer Short Sleeve Dress

T-shirt dresses are the unofficial style of the summer, and this wrinkle-resistant option with a flattering tie-waist and pockets is about to become your favorite purchase of the season. It can be dressed down with a simple pair of white sneakers for walking tours and shopping excursions, but if you want to wear this dress into the evening, simply swap into a pair of heels or wedges and you’ll be ready to go in seconds. Right now, it’s even double discounted to just $31, so don’t be surprised if you feel compelled to pick up more than one of the 26 summery colors and patterns available on the site.

Timeson Women’s Short Sleeve V-Neck Blouse

Florals for spring? Groundbreaking. Well, this wrinkle-free tunic certainly is considering it won’t require you to pack a portable steamer and can be worn straight from your suitcase, helping you nail your style for just $27. The loose-fitting cut of this shirt is excellent for keeping you cool as the weather heats up, plus it pairs well with jeans, shorts, or even a sleek skort for everything on your travel agenda. And if you do choose to wear it on your flight, you won’t have to worry about waking up to a shirt covered with creases.

Baleaf Women’s UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt

If you’re a traveler that prefers dressing in functional clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable while you’re on the go, then this UPF 50+ sun shirt is both a practical option and a great base layer for cool spring days. A No. 1 best-seller in activewear shirts, this simple white long sleeve top can be worn when working out, traveling, or taking in the sights, and with quick-dry material and a wrinkle-free finish, it’s about as practical as it gets. Flat seams are designed to reduce chafing if you’re planning on keeping active during your trip, so no matter what’s on the to-do list, this shirt is the base for the job.

HDE Chino Shorts

Well-fitting, comfortable shorts may feel like they’re hard to come by, but these high-waisted chinos are about to put your other pairs to shame — and they’re just $30. A 4-inch inseam is just long enough to not leave you feeling exposed while still showing a modest amount of skin, while lightly stretchy, wrinkle-proof material effortlessly flatters your curves. The waistband even features a hidden elastic band to maximize comfort, plus, they’re available in sizes ranging from S to 4X to make finding your perfect fit easier than ever.

Halife Women’s Summer Maxi Dress

During every vacation you deserve one nice night out to enjoy the cuisine of your destination, so if you’re looking to get dressed up without dealing with an endless array of wrinkles, this flowy maxi dress will be right up your alley. Lightweight and breathable, this dress fits loosely against the body without restriction, while a flattering rounded neck and maxi cut allow you to lean into carefree vacation style comfortably. Best of all, this dress boasts two pockets hidden within the tiers — and it’s available in 25 timeless colors to best suit your personal style.

Newchoice Women’s V-neck Tank Top

Adding a nice wrinkle-resistant top to your suitcase is never a bad idea, and this loose-fitting V-neck tank will remain a go-to choice throughout your summertime travels no matter how you choose to style it. The flattering V-neck cut is tasteful without being too revealing, so you can even wear this top to the office when you’re not traveling, and the sleeveless design will keep you cool and comfortable all summer long. Tuck it in or wear it loose, but either way you’ll feel like the most confident version of yourself with this top ready to be worn straight from your suitcase without a wrinkle in sight.

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Memorial Day road trip ahead. Here are the best and worst times to go in Florida, the Southeast

Memorial Day is rapidly approaching, which means millions will be hitting the roadways or skies for a quick weekend getaway.

AAA projects 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period. This is a 4% increase over last year, with experts noting this comes close to matching 2005’s record of 44 million Memorial Day travelers. 

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, said. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”  

When is Memorial Day 2024? When is Memorial Day weekend 2024?

Memorial Day is always observed on the last Monday of May, with this year's being on Monday, May 27. Memorial Day weekend starts on Friday, May 24, and lasts through the holiday until Monday.

Why we celebrate: What to know about federal holiday, what’s open in Florida

Which will be more congested for Memorial Day travel — roadways or airports?

According to AAA, road trips are expected to set a record with 38.4 million people projected to travel by car over Memorial Day weekend. Drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was roughly $3.57.

Renting a car for your road trip? Florida-based rental company  Hertz  says Orlando, Denver, Atlanta, Boston and Las Vegas are the cities displaying the highest rental demand, with the busiest pick-up days projected to be Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24. 

But airports are also bracing for a large surge of travelers next weekend.

Is Memorial Day a busy airport day?

AAA expects 3.51 million air travelers this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and 9% jump compared to 2019.

"This will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when 3.64 million flew for the holiday as the travel industry finally rebounded post 9/11," AAA said in its press release.

As for other modes of transportation, AAA predicts nearly two million people are expected to travel by buses, cruises, and train.

“This category took the biggest hit during the pandemic with fewer people taking public transportation or not cruising at all,” Twidale said. “Now – five years later – we’re back to 2019 numbers. Travel demand has been soaring, and long holiday weekends create the perfect windows for getaways.” 

When are the best and worst times to travel on Memorial Day?

For those planning a road trip for the holiday weekend, transportation data and insights provider INRIX offers the best times to get on the road.

Experts advise drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters. Travelers going back home on Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.  

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said.

What are the busiest travel days around Memorial Day?

Thursday, may 23.

• Best times: Before 11 a.m., After 7 p.m.
• Worst Times: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday, May 24

• Best times: Before 11 a.m., After 8 p.m.
• Worst Times: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturday, May 25

• Best times: Before 11 a.m., After 6 p.m.
• Worst Times: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday, May 26

• Best times: Before 1 p.m.
• Worst Times: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Monday, May 27

• Best times: After 7 p.m.

Floridians beware: Other states are heading to Florida to vacation

Whether Florida residents plan on traveling or relaxing at home all weekend, they might want to be aware of the thousands of others joining them.

AAA compiled a list of the top domestic travel destinations for Memorial Day weekend, with three Florida cities making the list:

• Orlando, Florida
• Seattle, Washington
• New York City, New York
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Anaheim/Los Angeles, California
• Denver, Colorado
• Anchorage, Alaska
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Miami, Florida
• Boston, Massachusetts

"This Memorial Day weekend, travelers are seeking theme parks and entertainment venues in Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, and Southern California. Seattle, Anchorage, and Vancouver rank high because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Florida beaches and cruise ports will also be packed," AAA writes.