visit yucatan mexico

Sun and beach

Mérida, Southern Cultural and Culinary Capital City

Archaeological zones.

Plan your trip

Getting here.

• USA, Houston
• USA, Oakland
• USA, Dallas
• MX, Chiapatas
• MX, Jalisco
• MX, Nuevo León
• MX, Veracruz
• MX, Villahermosa
• MX, Querétaro

Travel to Yucatan trough the different airlines

Explore Yucatán in

Meet the experiences that Yucatán has for you

Venture into our regions.

Yucatán, Cenotes and Haciendas

Mayan World Capital

Puuc Route and Mayan Villages

Riviera Yucatán

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. 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. 015 Snorkeling in Sisal

Discover Sisal’s nature, a small and picturesque port, learn about the history of the first port in Yucatán.

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. 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. 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...

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. 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. 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. 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...

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

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.

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 Booking.com Cars, 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
• Booking Cars 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!

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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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• All our Guides about Mexico

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. 🙂

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! 

• 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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Since the Spanish conquest, Mérida has been the cultural capital of the entire Yucatán Peninsula. A delightful blend of provincial and cosmopolitan, it is a town steeped in colonial history. It's a great place to explore, with narrow streets, broad central plazas and the region’s best museums. It’s also a perfect place from which to kick off your adventure into the rest of Yucatán state. It has excellent cuisine and accommodations, thriving markets, and events happening just about every night.

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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.

• Isla Holbox
• Isla Mujeres
• Playa del Carmen
• Puerto Aventuras
• Puerto Morelos
• Riviera Maya

• Hotels & Resorts

Experience Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula... Accommodations, Private transfers, Private experiences

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OTHER DESTINATIONS

• Chichen Itza
• Costa Maya – Chetumal
• Private Rentals
• Private Transfers
• Private Tours
• Global Hotel Reservations

AREA HIGHLIGHTS

• Mayan Ruins
• Whale Sharks
• Yucatan Peninsula

IMPORTANT LINKS

• Travel Resources

Best Time to Visit the Yucatan Mexico: Your 2024 Guide by a Local

If you have decided that you want to head to southeastern Mexico to experience gorgeous white sand beaches, swim in magical cenotes, and explore the sunbleached ruins of Mayan archaeological sites, you are probably trying to figure out the best time to visit the Yucatan. 

This article has been written by a British Travel Writer who has been living in the Mexican Yucatan for the last two years. (Me!) In this post, we will run through everything that you need to consider when determining the best time for your trip.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Yucatan Mexico 

While arguably there is some element of subjectivity involved when deciding the best time to visit the Yucatan (relating to your Yucatan itinerary , your personal preferences and budget, etc), I would say that for most people, the best time to travel is either late October/November or March/April.  

The “high season” in this part of Mexico runs between November and April. December through February are essentially the peak months when tens of thousands of “snowbirds” from the United States and Canada head to Mexico for the winter to escape the harsh cold in their countries. 

This means that flight and accommodation prices go up, and finding Airbnb rentals in popular destinations like Merida, Cancun or Playa Del Carmen is a nightmare if you do not prebook. 

The rainy season runs between May and November, with the most adverse weather from the hurricane season being around August/September. October/November is a great time because not only do you avoid the high humidity and rain of the wet season, but you narrowly escape the crowds that head here en masse from mid-December. 

March and early April are also good times to travel. At this time, most of the snowbirds leave, and you can enjoy quieter cities and attractions before it starts to get too hot. 

Summer and the hurricane season in the Yucatan

It is actually the months of April and May, not the middle of summer, that are the hottest months of the year in the Yucatan. You can expect an average high of around 37°C (98°F) at this time, but in May 2023, I saw 47°C on my car dashboard a couple of times. (116°F). (Thanks, global warming!) 

In this heat, it is hard to walk more than a couple of blocks without feeling exhausted and struggling with the heat so I would avoid travelling at this time if you can. 

The hurricane season runs from May to October and while the rains bring humidity, they also cool things down a bit. A lot of people are terrified by the sheer mention of “hurricanes” but honestly, hurricanes in the Yucatan are pretty rare. 

The rain isnt usually constant either. There might be a couple of heavy downpours and then things clear up so that you can enjoy the rest of your day. 

The worst of the rain tends to come in August and September and sometimes when storms are super heavy, they knock out the power and internet in certain neighbourhoods for a few days which can be annoying. 

The drainage systems in Merida, Campeche and some other Yucatan towns and cities are not great, and many of the streets in the historic centre easily get flooded when the rains are super heavy. Wading through the dirty water isnt particularly pleasant.

Since this is the low season, you can often enjoy far more economical prices of tours, hotels and car rentals at this time as businesses slash their rates to encourage demand. 

Winter in the Yucatan

Using the words “winter” and “Yucatan” together is almost laughable because, well, frankly it never gets cold here. Winter in Southeastern Mexico is substantially cooler and less humid than a Mexican summer, but it is still hotter than summer anywhere else. 

Between December and February, you can expect average daily temperatures between around 28°C and 33°C with the average being about 30°C. (82.4°F). This is a pleasant time to travel if you want to spend extended amounts of time walking around Mayan ruins, Yucatan pueblo magicos and other historic/cultural sites outside. 

It is very rare that it is ever chilly or windy, even at night. You don’t need to worry about packing a cardigan or light layers if you are travelling at this time. Bring your summer wardrobe and lightweight cotton clothing. 

Best Time to Visit the Yucatan Mexico: A Month by Month Rundown 

If you are still unsure about the best time to visit the Yucatan, let’s look at a monthly breakdown of what travelling here is like throughout the year. It’s also worth noting that there are always tons of festivals and events going on across the state, which may influence your travel dates and are absolutely worth participating in if your schedule allows.

January in the Yucatan

Temperature-wise, January is one of the best times to travel to the Yucatan. The average daily temperature falls between 82° F and 87° F and rainfall is minimal.

Since this is such a popular time of year, it is advisable to book everything in advance. When you are visiting Chichen Itza and other popular places in the Yucatan , try to get there for as soon as they open if you want to avoid the crowds.

If you can get to some of these places first thing in the morning, you may have them virtually all to yourself for the first half an hour or so before the tour buses roll in. On average, only four days of the month see rain, and no more than 1.5 inches of rain falls.

Festivities and events in January in the Yucatan

There are also some great local events that take place in the Yucatan in January. Merida Fest is an annual celebration of the city of Meridas heritage and sees all manner of performers take to the stage in various venues across the city. In 2024, this will take place between the 5th and the 21st of January.

January 6th marks Three King’s Day (El Dia de Los Reyes). This symbolizes the day that the Three Kings visited Jesus in Bethlehem and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.  

People will exchange gifts and feast on traditional foods with their families. They will bake or purchase a traditional cake known as Rosca de Reyes. You will be able to find this in patisseries throughout the peninsula if you want to try it! 

February in the Yucatan

February in the Yucatan is very similar to January in terms of crowds and weather conditions. This month sees maximum daytime temperatures of around 87° and 88° F. 

Carnaval (aka Mexico’s answer to Mardi Gras) runs for a week in the middle of the month. Small processions take place in Merida and Progreso

March in the Yucatan

The number of tourists visiting the Yucatan starts to drop from March onwards. This means that you can often find cheaper accommodation options, local excursions, and flights. 

Things start heating up in March, but they are still not so unbearably hot that doing things outside becomes a challenge yet. Daily temperatures often reach highs of 90-94°F but rainfall is minimal.

Festivities and events in the Yucatan in March

The 21st of March marks the birthday of the celebrated late Mexican President Benito Juarez. Juarez is revered throughout Mexico for his role in the Mexican Revolution and today, his birthday is a public holiday.

At this time, many locals flock to beach towns like El Cuyo, Mahahual , San Bruno, and Sisal , and coastal areas become crowded. So, this is worth keeping in mind if your trip coincides with the dates on and around Benito Juarez day. 

Easter (Semana Santa) will also fall in March in 2024. (Sunday 24th March to Saturday 30th March). This is one of the most important holidays in the Mexican calender since most people in Mexico are Catholic.

Many people visit their local church for Catholic mass on Holy Thursday and on Friday, processions are held throughout Yucatecan towns and villages (and across wider Mexico) reenacting Jesus’ final journey to the cross. Participants wear hoods of anonymity, walk barefoot, and carry crosses, chains, or other religious symbols. On Easter Sunday, some people attend mass at church. It is possible to participate in any of these celebrations, even if you cannot speak Spanish, as long as you are respectful.

April in the Yucatan

Things really start heating up in the Yucatan in April, particularly after you pass the middle of the month. Daily highs in the Yucatan in April are typically around 95/97 °F. However, temperatures above 104°F are not unheard of either.

Towards the end of the month, it starts to feel a lot muggier and more humid. 

May in the Yucatan

May is the hottest month in the Yucatan. It becomes very humid during this month, which can make the heat feel even more intense. Expect daily temperatures of around 95°F. Sometimes, it can even reach as high as 107°F. This often feels too hot to do anything and with the increasing temperatures, humidity, and rainfall come more mosquitoes. It is better to plan your outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon if you can and avoid being out in the midday sun around 12-1 pm when it is at its most intense. Opting to book a hotel or hotel or rental accommodation with a pool is a nice way to be able to cool down after a long day of sightseeing.

June in the Yucatan

June in the Yucatan is sweltering, just like May. At this point, the rainy season is well underway. The first of June also marks the start of the hurricane season which runs from now until the end of November. The average total rainfall for the Yucatan peninsula during this month is 65.5cm and there are usually 9 days worth of rain. Still, usually, the rain quickly passes so you can still enjoy a beach break in Cancun, etc in June. Towns along the coast of Campeche state, the Yucatan, and Quintana Roo have a sea breeze that can make the ultra-high temperatures feel more bearable.

It will feel cooler in coastal Celestun , for instance, than in Valladolid, Kikil , or Merida which are all inland. 

July in the Yucatan

July sees similar weather conditions to June in the Yucatan. Temperatures are between 90 and 95°F during the day and 80 and 85 °F during the night. Hurricane season is underway, but the biggest hurricane risk isn’t until around September. If anything, you may just encounter a few strong rain and wind storms. These are usually over quickly. 

Unique celebrations in July in the Yucatan

One quirky and unique festival that takes place this month is the Huevos Motuleños festival in the central Yucatan pueblo magico of Motul.

Huevos motuleños is a Mexican breakfast dish that is only really found in this part of southern Mexico and was first created in Motul. It is made by serving fried eggs on top of tortillas, refried beans, and cheese, and then pouring homemade tomato sauce, peas, and ham over the top.

People usually add a dash of hot sauce to the top of the eggs, and plantains are served on the side. Every Merida restaurant you stop by will likely prepare this Yucatan dish a little differently. For the best of the best, head to Doña Evelia Huevos Motuleños in the Municipal 20 de Noviembre market in Motul. The Huevos Motuleños festival takes place between the 14th and the 16th of July each year. Head to the San Juan Bautista church in the central plaza to tuck into this famous regional egg dish and watch folk dances by people in traditional Mexican clothing. You can also catch performances by the Yucatan Philharmonic Orchestra. 

August in the Yucatan

August in the Yucatan is scorching. Expect temperatures of around  90°F-100°F during the day.

Unfortunately, the high humidity that the region experiences during this time can make things feel hotter than ever. However, there is usually a brief period of respite and relief after it rains. Towards the end of the month, you start to see an increased frequency of storms and rainfalls. It can be scary sometimes to hear thunder that shakes the ground and see pitchfork lighening but still, there have only been two large and serious storms in the last thirty years.

This us still a safe time to travel. It just depends on how much you can tolerate walking around in the intense summer heat! 

September in the Yucatan

Temperatures start to drop in the Yucatan in September, although it is still hot by anyone’s standards. Daily high temperatures are around 91°F to 93°F and it rarely drops below 86°F. This is the rainiest month of the year, with an average rainfall of 185mm (7.3in) and more than 14 days of rain. This is also the month with the biggest hurricane risk in the Atlantic. Most of the rain and storms seem to take place at the beginning of the month, with conditions drying up, humidity decreasing, and temperatures dropping towards the end of the month. Merida Restaurant Week takes place every year from the 26th of September to the 2nd of October. 

At this time, various restaurants around the city offer a special menu where you can enjoy multiple courses of traditional Yucatecan food for discounted prices. For instance, there will be a 300 pesos menu, a 500 pesos menu, and a 700 pesos menu, all made up of various courses. 

October in the Yucatan

October is arguably the best time to visit the Yucatan. The temperatures are becoming more manageable and the rainy season is finally drawing to a close. 

Things are still a little rainy for the first two weeks of the month but showers are brief. Expect maximum daytime temperatures of around 91°F. Most tourists do not arrive until late November/December so this is essentially the calm before the storm in terms of how crowded places become. You can secure some great flight and accommodation deals during this month before prices start to increase from November onwards. 

Merida and other Mexican cities do see a greater number of tourists at the end of the month in the lead-up to Dia de Los Muertos. Do book your accommodation in advance if travelling at this time. 

Unique events in October in the Yucatan

Dia de Los Muertos is one of the most beautiful and quintessentially Mexican celebrations that take place each year. Although the official holiday falls in November, many of the festivities that surround it take place in October. Throughout the month, you will find patisseries around the country selling pan de Muertos (bread of the dead). This Mexican sweet bread is prepared with sugar and oranges and goes great with a cup of Chiapas coffee.  

In the Yucatan, this holiday is known as “Hanal Pixan” . It has some slight differences from the traditional Dia de Los Muertos and is essentially the Mayan version of the holiday. In Merida, a road made from flowers (Camino de Flores) is held at the city’s Parque de la Paz from October the 25th to November the 2nd. Giant illustrations are made on the ground using more than 60,000 fragrant flowers. The Paseo de las Animas is Merida’s grand parade for the occasion. It starts at the city’s main cemetery (Cementerio General de Mérida) and thousands of people lead a candlelit procession through the streets carrying candles and dressed as catrinas. 

October 31st (All Saints Eve) sees locals create an ofrenda (altar) on the tombs of their loved ones. This often includes fresh flowers, and the deceased person’s favorite snacks and treats. 

November in the Yucatan

November in the Yucatan marks the end of the hurricane and rainy season. Daytime temperatures tend to be around 82 and 86 °F and the humidity drops significantly.

This is the best time to visit the Yucatan if you want to be able to spend a lot of time outdoors, exploring cities, ruins, and pueblo magicos on foot, without being too hot. Of course, November also sees Mexico celebrate one of the country´s most special traditions: Dia de Los Muertos. Most Dia de Los Muertos/Hanal Pixan parades and processions usually take place in late October, although the actual day falls in November. November 1st is known as “the day of the innocents” and celebrates the lives of children that passed away too soon. November 2nd is the official Day of the Dead. Families across the country celebrate the lives of the loved ones they have lost. This is not a morbid or sad occasion. Although people in the west may be averse to talking about death, in Mexico, this is about celebrating the things that these people did and achieved during their lives. 

December in the Yucatan

December is one of the biggest months for tourism in Mexico , the Yucatan included. Some parts of the peninsula become very crowded, particularly around Christmas and New Year’s eve, and prices in the state of Quintana Roo soar.

Christmas is a major holiday in Mexico. The nine days that lead up to Christmas Eve are known as “Las Posadas” and run from the 16th to the 24th of December. You will see festive lights and nativity scenes set up around the state, and most locals spend Christmas Day exchanging gifts and feasting with their families. December 28th is Holy Innocent´s Day, sort of like the Mexican answer to April Fool´s Day. People will often pull pranks and play jokes on their loved ones. New Year’s Eve sees fireworks displays in virtually every Yucatan resort town. Many bars, clubs, and hotels host New Year’s parties, and most require an advance reservation. There are a lot of Mexican superstitions centered around the New Year – including the belief that if you eat 12 grapes in quick succession at midnight, you will have good fortune in the year ahead.  Expect daily temperatures between 80-85 °F in the day in the Yucatan in December. Sometimes, it may soar up to 90-92 °F.

Best Time to Visit the Yucatan Mexico FAQs

Do you still have any burning questions or concerns about deciding when is the best time to visit the Yucatan? Hopefully, you will find the answers you are searching for below. 

What is the hottest month in the Yucatan? 

May is the hottest month in Yucatan. Daily temperatures are around 95°F but they can reach as high as 107°F. The humidity and the rain make it feel even hotter, especially in areas inland where there isn’t a sea breeze.

What is the best month to visit Merida Mexico?

The winter months of November through April are the best time to visit Merida Mexico. At this time, the weather is warm and sunny without being overbearingly hot.

Opt to travel at the start or end of the season to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices. (E.g. in November or in April rather than in January/February).

What is the wettest month on the Yucatan peninsula? 

The rainy season in the Yucatan peninsula runs from June to October. September tends to be the month with the most rainfall.

Is Merida too hot in May?

May is the hottest month in Merida, with average daily temperatures between 95°F and 100°F but often even higher. At this time, the humidity can be as high as 76%.

Walking around for extended periods of time can be a struggle. If you can, try to avoid traveling to the Yucatan region in the hottest months of May, June, and July.

What month has the most hurricanes in Cancun?

The hurricane season affecting Cancun and Quintana Roo runs between June and November every year. However, September and October are the months with the greatest hurricane risks.

Is Tulum affected by the hurricane season?

Yes. Tulum and the wider region of Quintana Roo and the Yucatan peninsula are affected by the Atlantic hurricane season. This runs from June to November every year.

Final Thoughts on the best time to visit the Yucatan

Do you have any more questions about the best time to visit the Yucatan in Mexico? Arguably, there is no such thing as a bad time to travel here.

Even though it does get super hot, virtually everywhere has powerful air conditioning as do most buses and rental cars. The winter months are still perhaps the best time of year to travel, but if your schedule dictates that your only vacation time is in July or August, rest assured travelling during the rainy season isnt going to detract from or ruin your experience in any way.

If you are setting off to Mexico for the first time, you might enjoy reading these Mexico travel tips . Alternatively, you might enjoy this article on keeping safe in the Yucatan.

Have a wonderful trip and enjoy Mexico! Buen Viaje! Melissa Xo

Melissa Douglas

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Plan Your Trip to Cancun: Best of Cancun Tourism

Cancun, Mexico

Travel advice, discover the best of mexico with meliá.

Essential Cancun

Where to stay

Where to eat

3 days in Cancun

A family-friendly weekend in Cancun

Browse collections

More ways to get on beach time

Cancun Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing cancun.

justaguyincancun

Do not forget your sunglasses and biodegradable sunscreen. Studies show that some chemicals contained in regular sunscreen can be harmful to coral reefs!

Chain restaurants are expensive, opt for the cantina with authentic Mexican food. You will not be disappointed.

CancunCanuck

While U.S. dollars are accepted at most places (buses won't take U.S. coins), it is better to use pesos. Prices are in pesos, your change will be in pesos and your service staff will appreciate tips in pesos.

I tell them to picture the most beautiful beach, the kindest people, and the most amazing selection of resorts to choose from. There is something for everybody across all interests and price points.

Cancun offers cuisine to satisfy every taste. Whether you're looking for gourmet restaurants as part of your all-inclusive or just simple food there's sure to be a resort that offers what you're looking for. Want to dine outside your resort? No problem. Cancun has everything from the finest steakhouse and seafood restaurants to small places to just grab a quesadilla.

The hotel zone in Cancun has one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere. The hotels along here have amazing oceanfront views available and many of the hotels have pools right along the beach.

What is the best way to get there?

Cancun is served by the Cancún International Airport.

Do I need a visa?

Mexico has a visa exemption agreement with several countries, which means travelers coming from nations within this agreement (including the United States) don’t need a tourist visa for stays of up to 180 days — as long as they hold a passport valid at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, with one blank visa page.

For more information about visas and which countries are exempt,  see here .

When is the best time to visit?

Late April through May: The Spring Breakers have left it is before the thick of Summer when the humidity rises and tropical storms can bring rainfall. There are also good deals on offer at this time of year. The average daytime temperatures reach highs of 87 Fahrenheit (31°Celcius) and lows of 73 Fahrenheit (23° Celcius).

Three private bus lines connect Cancun’s downtown area and the "hotel zone" as well as more distant destinations such as Playa del Carmen and Tulum. For more information about fares and schedules,  see here .

taxi and rideshare

Public taxis hailed from the street do not have meters, so always agree on a price before you get in. Site taxis, or taxis that belong to a company that are called or booked, have standard prices — negotiation is not welcome. Ridesharing companies like Uber are also available.

For more information about Cancun taxis,  see here .

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Eastern Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Cancun is 127V and the standard frequency is 60Hz. The plug has two flat parallel pins.

What is the currency?

The Mexican peso is the main currency, however, U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout the Cancun Hotel Zone.

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted, is it easy to find a bank, how much do i tip.

In Mexico, tipping in either U.S. dollars (bills only) or pesos is acceptable, although pesos are more practical for the recipient.

20 pesos per drink

20-50 pesos

Housekeeper

50 pesos per night

Taxis/rideshare

Only if a taxi driver helps with luggage, 10 pesos per bag

Are there local customs I should know?

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Slow it down:

Arriving 30 minutes to two hours late to a social function at someone’s house is acceptable. In fact, it is actually polite to arrive late as the host won’t be ready if you arrive on time. The same goes for dining out — don’t be in a hurry. The waiter won’t bring you the bill when you’ve finished eating as it is considered too forceful and rude. You’ll have to ask for the bill but in the meantime, sit back and relax.

Mexicans are very friendly and personable people. When meeting a group, take the time to greet each individual personally and shake their hand.

Learn the language:

Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is a sign of respect and courtesy and will be appreciated.

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• Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour with Tequila and Lunch
• Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkel, Open bar and Transportation from hotel
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Mexico Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 2, 2024

While most people visit Mexico for its big tourist centers like Tulum , Cabo, Cancun , or Cozumel, there’s a lot more to the country than just its luxurious resorts.

Now, I’ll be honest: I was late to visiting Mexico.

But when I did, I fell in love with it. Mexico is an incredible destination with a rich history, amazing food, and friendly people.

It’s an awesome country to backpack around, drive through, or just vacation in. There’s a ton of stuff to do here, and the locals are some of the friendliest people on the planet.

From Mayan ruins to pristine beaches to Mexico City’s art and food and Oaxaca’s mezcal scene, Mexico has it all.

And the food? World-class. Gorge yourself on delicious tacos, tostadas, tamales, sopas, seafood, and mole (to name a few items from Mexico’s very long list of traditional dishes).

I could go on forever as to why I love this country. Whatever amount of time you’re planning to visit is not enough — you’ll always leave wanting more.

This Mexico travel guide will help you get out of the touristy towns, explore the country, and fall in love with what you discover!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Mexico

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in mexico.

1. Explore Oaxaca

Located in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains in southwestern Mexico, Oaxaca and its surrounds have been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. A city of colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, street art, historic Spanish colonial churches, cobblestone streets, and many parks, it’s a center for heritage tourism. It’s also one of the gastronomic hotbeds of Mexico as well as the hub of mezcal production too. With fascinating museums, bustling markets, historic buildings, delicious food and much more, there really is something for everyone in Oaxaca . I loved my time there ! You must visit!

2. Tour Mexico City

Found in the Valley of Mexico at an altitude of around 2,225 meters (7,300 feet), Mexico City is a sprawling, chaotic, messy city in the best way possible. Originally built over a lake, it has some 150 world-class museums, sprawling markets, tons of historic buildings, city squares, and more. In the historic center, you can visit the impressive main square (the only one bigger in the world is Red Square in Moscow). To the south of the city there’s a network of beautiful canals, and Teotihuacan, the City of the Gods, is just a 45-minute drive away. The city also has an incredible foodie scene and is fast becoming one of the centers of gastronomy in the world.

3. Relax on the Pacific Coast

Vacation spots like Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, and Sayulita on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offer just as many epic beaches and resort properties as the Caribbean Coast. Go to Puerto Vallarta or Los Cabos to hang out on the pristine white sandy beaches, or head to Sayulita to check out the busy surf scene. Surf and enjoy watersports, visit historical monuments, and check out all the local art by day. By night, you can indulge in sunset cocktails, enjoy fresh shrimp tacos or seafood skewers, and salsa the evening away.

4. See the Mayan Ruins

Mexico is filled with ruins. You have Chichén Itzá, which dates back to 550 CE and is one of the largest (and most popular) Mayan sites in Mexico for its enormous Kukulkan Pyramid (which is considered one of the new Wonders of the World). Other ruins worth visiting are the Tulum Archaeological Zone, the Palenque Archaeological Zone, the Calakmul ruins (which are inside the huge Calakmul Biosphere Reserve), the ruins at Ek Balam, and so many more! Admission is 571 MXN for the Wonder of the World Chichén Itzá while the rest cost anywhere from 80-500 MXN.

5. Visit a volcano

Other things to see and do in mexico, 1. wander through mexico city’s chapultepec park.

Chapultepec is one of the largest city parks in the world, spanning over 1,700 acres. It encompasses the Mexico City Zoo, La Feria amusement park, and the Museum of Anthropology, which houses a vast collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. The museum costs 85 MXN, as does the Chapultepec Castillo (Castle) which houses the National History Museum. You can also rent a rowboat or paddle boat and go out on Chapultepec Lake for 60 MXN. Entry to the park itself is free.

2. Visit the markets

Just about every town in Mexico has a busy, diverse market where you can enjoy traditional food, pick up some bargain items, and purchase souvenirs. Two of the best are the Mercado Ciudadela in Mexico City (for handmade textiles and artwork), and Oaxaca’s Mercado Benito Juárez (for local foods like fresh ground coffee beans, juices, and grasshopper tacos). If you’re in Merida, check out Mercado Santa Ana for their Yucatecan cuisine, like cochito horneado , a marinated pork dish that is slow-cooked in underground pits, or head to El Mercado Lucas de Galvez for their specialty seafood cocktails (the locals swear by it to cure your hangover).

3. Explore Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución)

Zócalo is the main plaza in the heart of Mexico City. It dates back to the Aztecs, encompassing both the Templo Mayor (an ancient Aztec temple) and the Palacio Nacional (a colonial palace with offices of Mexico’s president). Situated just off the Zócalo is La Catedral Metropolitana, a magnificent cathedral with a gold altar. It’s a perfect example of Spanish colonial architecture.

4. Go diving

The seas surrounding Mexico have some of the world’s best diving spots thanks to their diverse marine life, large coral reefs (including the second largest reef system in the world, the Great Maya Barrier Reef), and excellent visibility. The Gulf of Mexico is home to five different species of sea turtles, blue whales, lemon sharks, and dolphins, and so much more! Aside from diving, the waters are popular for snorkeling, sports fishing, waterboarding, surfing, and more or less any other watersports. A two-tank dive starts at 2,800 MXN. Some of the best places to dive in Mexico are Discovery Bay, Cenote Dos Ojos, Revillagigedo Islands, and Isla Mujeres.

5. Relax in Cancún

Depending on what you’re looking to do, Cancún can offer you a crazy-fun party in the sun or some quiet and hidden local markets and restaurants. You have spas, resorts, and picturesque beaches as well as Mayan ruins, archaeological sites, and little nearby villages. There’s a ton to see and do here if you leave the resorts!

6. Get lost in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico and is known for its tequila and mariachi. It’s chock full of museums, such as Cabañas (a UNESCO building with incredible murals), MUSA (paintings & sculptures by local artists), and the Páramo Galeria (contemporary art); nightlife venues, and a labyrinth of old colonial streets. Visit the Hospicio Cabañas, a hospital built in the 19th century, and then spend some time at the Guadalajara Cathedral. The cathedral’s Gothic interior features artworks from famous Mexican artists like Murillo (a Baroque painter).

7. See Teotihuacan

The Aztec empire left an enormous mark on Mexico. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Aztec pyramids at Teotihuacan, located 48 kilometers (30 miles) outside of Mexico City. Teotihuacan was founded as early as 400 BCE, but its biggest structures weren’t completed until around 300 BCE. Its three giant pyramids are known as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of Moon, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, and they dominate the landscape. If you’re going to visit just one Aztec site, this is it. It’s unsheltered here, so bring sunscreen and a hat. Admission is 85 MXN. Full-day guided tours from Mexico City cost 880 MXN.

8. Visit the bizarre Island of Dolls

Known as “La Isla de la Muñecas” in Spanish, this is perhaps one of the creepiest tourist attractions in the world. Decades ago, a hermit named Don Julian Santana moved here, learned a girl drowned in the nearby lake, and started collecting and hanging dolls all over the island to please the drowned girl’s spirit. It’s creepy. Like beyond creepy. You’ll have to hire a boat from Xochimilco to get there but it’s worth it!

9. Honor the Day of the Dead

Yearly on November 1st and 2nd, Mexico celebrates a major festival: Día de Los Muertos. The festival is a vibrant and lively affair with celebrations for those who are gone but not forgotten, including parades and elaborate and colorful costumes. Families also commemorate their dead relatives by setting up ofrendas , or altars, with pictures of the deceased, candles, yellow marigold petals, and food. This meant to encourage the deceased to cross back over into the land of the living and join in the celebrations. Oaxaca or Mexico City are the two best places to experience this celebration.

10. Visit the UNAM Botanical Garden

If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of Mexico City for a little while, the Botanical Garden at the National Autonomous University of Mexico is the perfect place. Keeping with the Aztec traditions of having gardens for both medicinal and ornamental purposes, there is also an added focus on conservation and environmental education here. Built on top of and around lava formations from the eruption of the volcano Xitle (which happened over 2,000 years ago), visitors can explore the naturally formed grottoes, ponds, and waterfalls. This garden has the most diverse cactus collection in the world (800 different kinds!), and ponds full of koi and turtles, an orchidarium, and a medicinal garden. Admission is free.

11. Relax on Isla Holbox

Holbox is an island located off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and is home to white sand beaches and crystalline waters. It is a relaxing, slow-paced island that’s easy to get stuck on. One day can easily turn into a week. It’s an island paradise where you can relax in a hammock on the beach, hike in the jungles, swim, dive, snorkel, and everything in between! While it used to be a hidden gem, it’s slowly becoming more and more popular (and developed). Be sure to see bioluminescent waters here. From Cancún, you can get to the ferry port at Chiquilá in around two hours by bus. The ferry takes 25 minutes and costs 220 MXN. If you just want to visit for the day, full-day tours from Cancún/Playa del Carmen cost 3,000 MXN.

12. Visit Mérida

Mérida is one of my favorite places in all of Mexico. It is a safe and wonderful city filled with history, cool mezcal bars, and some of the best food in the country. Some of my favorite places to eat and drink in town are La Chaya Maya Casona, Acervo Mezcalero, La Negrita Cantina, and Café Créme. Also, don’t miss the nearby Uxmal ruins, which are just one-hour away. There are also some cool museums here, like the Folk Art Museum of Yucatan, the Yucatan Music Museum, and the City Museum (which has all kinds of Mayan artifacts). For accommodation suggestions, check out this post on where to stay in Merida .

13. Enjoy San Cristóbal de las Casas’ architecture

San Cristóbal is a highland town known for its charming colonial architecture. There are narrow cobblestone streets, local craft markets, and the entire area is enveloped in pine forests. Don’t miss the town’s 16th-century cathedral, and if you want to get out and explore the nearby nature, take a boat tour of the Cañón de Sumidero. You’ll see tons of birds, monkeys, and crocodiles. For a view of the town and surrounding area, visit the Guadalupe Church to enjoy the view from the roof. Free Walking San Cristóbal offers daily tours if you want a guide to show you the highlights.

14. Sample the Cenotes of Yucatan

Cenotes are natural sinkholes that are full of groundwater. They were used by the Mayans as sources for freshwater, however, today they are popular swimming holes for locals and tourists alike (you can even scuba dive in some). There are tons of them all around the Yucatan Peninsula. Some are completely exposed, some are walled in by cliffs, and some are covered entirely by caves. Calavera, Cristalino, Casa Cenote, Yaxmuul, Choo-Ha, and Escondido Cenote are some of the most popular cenotes in the region. If you’d rather do a tour, you can join a cenote tour for around 1,350 MXN.

15. Visit Sayulita

Located on the Pacific coast, Sayulita is a hip beach town with a lively community of expats and surfers. The town has a laid-back vibe owing to the sizable surfing and yoga community. It’s a great place to surf and there are plenty of yoga retreats available here. You can also take a jungle trek, go zip lining, ride ATVs along the coast, and simply soak up the sun on the beach. It’s the perfect place to chill for a few days. Canopy tours start at 1,800 MXN.

16. Explore Campeche

Campeche is located just south of Merida on the Yucatan. It’s home to UNESCO World Heritage colonial architecture, including fortified walls and over 2,000 historic buildings. Visit the Museo De La Arquitectura Maya for Mayan history and antiquities, see the Mayan ruins at Edzná (which is just 45 minutes away and sees very few tourists), and wander the old city wall to take in the view.

  For information on specific cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

• Cancún Travel Guide
• Mexico City Travel Guide
• Oaxaca Travel Guide

Mexico Travel Costs

Accommodation – In Mexico, hostels start at 250 MXN per night for a dorm bed, but average closer to 300 MXN. Private hostel rooms cost anything from 600-1,900 MXN per night. Prices are usually a bit lower in the low-season or shoulder-season. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are both common, as are self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity costs around 200 MXN per night.

For budget hotels, expect to pay 700 MXN for a basic room in a two-star hotel. These two-star rooms typically include an en-suite bathroom and free Wi-Fi, but not always air conditioning.

Airbnb is also an option in Mexico, with private rooms starting around 300 MXN but averaging much more (usually between 600-1,200 MXN). Entire homes and apartments average around 1,000-1,800 MXN although you can find them for as little as 600 MXN if you book early.

Food – You’ll find a lot of rice, beans, fruits, and veggies like tomatoes, corn, avocado, and peppers in Mexican cuisine, which is a mix of Mayan, Aztec, and Spanish traditions. Typical Mexican dishes include tacos, mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, often including chocolate), salsa, enchiladas, tamales (stuffed corn pockets), pozole (hominy stew topped with onion, avocado, and chili), and guacamole.

Street stalls and markets are the best way to go for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadilla, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN. In Mexico, street food is the best — and most affordable — option.

A meal at a local Mexican restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 150 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. Expect to pay around 300 MXN for a multi-course meal in a mid-range restaurant.

A beer is about 20 MXN in the street but double that at a restaurant, while a cocktail shouldn’t cost more than 80 MXN in most places. A combo meal at McDonald’s costs around 120 MXN and a cappuccino costs around 50 MXN.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. If you’re buying bottles of water, expect to pay 15 MXN (less if you buy in bulk but a more environmentally friendly (and cheaper) solution is to bring a portable water purifier ( LifeStraw makes a good one.

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 750 MXN per week for groceries including rice, vegetables, chicken, and beans.

Backpacking Mexico Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Mexico, expect to spend around 800 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few attractions (such as museums and galleries) each day. If you plan on eating out more or drinking, you’ll need to add another 100 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,800 MXN per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, visit more attractions, enjoy a few drinks, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,600 MXN or more per day, you can stay at a hotel, eat out for all your meals, enjoy plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided trips and tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Mexico Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Mexico is incredibly budget-friendly. Unless you’re splurging on food or resorts, it’s really easy to visit on a budget. That said, it never hurts to save more money! Here are some ways to save in Mexico:

• Shop at the markets for food – Mexico’s markets are a great place to eat inexpensively and stock up on food for day trips. Most towns have a local market selling fresh fruits, veggies, and other goods for cheap.
• Eat street food – Street food is the best food in the country — and the cheapest. Stick to street stalls to save money and enjoy the country’s best eats.
• Take a free walking tour – Many cities have free walking tours that give you a solid introduction to the main sights. Both Mexico City and Oaxaca have excellent free tours — just be sure to tip your guide!
• Travel off-season – By traveling between late April and early December, you can pick up bargain accommodation, food and travel rates as this is low season.
• Venture inland – Mexico’s coasts are the most famous, most touristy parts of the country, but the interior has an amazing amount to offer. Prices are cheaper, and you’ll be more likely to meet some locals if you head away from the coast.
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals and connect with people who can share their insider tips and advice. Just make sure to send your requests early.
• Embrace “comida corrida” – This hearty mid-day meal option is usually available between 2pm-4pm and is often quite affordable. It’s a set menu, but it’s much cheaper than most lunch or dinner options. If you plan on eating out on a budget, aim for places that offer comida corrida.
• Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the taxis – Taxis are overpriced and not always safe. Skip them. If you do need a taxi, don’t just hail one on the street. Head into a nearby hotel/hostel and ask them to call one for you. Only get in taxis that use a meter.
• Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water bottle with a built-in filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Mexico

Hostels are plentiful in most of Mexico’s cities. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Mexico:

• Suites DF Hostel (Mexico City)
• Mexico City Hostel (Mexico City)
• Hostel Ka’beh Cancún (Cancún)
• Mama’s Home (Tulum)
• Gran Hostal (Playa del Carmen)
• Casa Angel Youth Hostel (Oaxaca)

How to Get Around Mexico

Public transportation – Public buses (also known as camiones ) are the most common way to get around in cities and towns (and to nearby villages). These buses are also the cheapest, costing no more than a few pesos per journey. In some cities, smaller microbuses have replaced the older buses, but the cost is still the same.

Mexico City and Guadalajara have subway systems. One-way tickets for the subway and the bus system are around 5 MXN. In Mexico City, you’ll have to buy a rechargeable Metro Card at any of the Metro stations for 15 MXN, and you can use the card for the Metro, Metrobús, Light Rail, Ecobici, Trolleybus, RTP buses, and on Cablebús.

Bus – Most of Mexico is served by buses. On longer journeys, make sure to take an express bus (called a “directo”) if you can as they are much faster and stop less. A bus from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara (5.5 hours) costs around 585 MXN. A bus from Cancún to Mexico City (27 hours) costs around 1,800 MXN. A bus from Puebla to Mexico City (2 hours) costs around 200 MXN.

Some of the biggest and most reliable bus companies include:

• Primera Plus
• Estrella de Oro
• Omnibuses de Mexico
• ETN (Enlaces Terrestres Nacionales)

Most cities have a central bus terminal from where all long-distance buses depart. You can show up to buy your ticket, or research routes and ticket prices via each company’s website.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – There are virtually no passenger train services remaining in Mexico. For long-distance travel, you’ll need to fly or take the bus.

Flying – For long journeys, consider flying. The route from Cancún to Mexico City by bus takes 27 hours and costs around 1,800 MXN but a flight starts around 470 MXN and only takes two hours. A one-way fare from Mexico City to Guadalajara is about 525 MXN. Even a four-hour flight from coast to coast from Cancún to Puerto Vallarta is just 1,200 MXN one-way.

Aeroméxico is the biggest airline in Mexico, but low-cost carriers are becoming more popular. These include:

• VivaAerobus

Car rentals – Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Mexico. You can find week-long rentals for around 3,000 MXN. Renters must be 21 years of age and have had their license for at least two years. Some companies require renters to be over 25 and it’s best to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Avoid driving at night, when crimes against drivers are more likely to occur. Also, don’t leave any valuables in your vehicle overnight as break-ins can occur.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Mexico

Summer (June to October) is the rainy season in Mexico, but this is mostly just in the center of the country. You can expect it to rain each day heavily, but the downpour is usually short. It hardly ever rains in the northern part of the country, and humidity is thick in the south and along the coastal areas. Temperatures during this time hover somewhere between 26-32°C (79-90°F).

September to the middle of October is hurricane season and is not a good time to visit.

December to the end of April (winter) is the busiest tourist season as temperatures are hot, but the coastal areas provide plenty of relief for vacationers. This is the best time to visit if you’re looking to take advantage of Mexico’s tropical environment. It’s the dry season, so you’ll experience very little rain. You can expect big crowds as people flock to the resort areas around Cancún and Puerto Vallarta.

The average daily temperature during this time is 28°C (82°F). But if you’re in the mountains, pack lots of layers! It can get frigid, especially in the evenings.

How to Stay Safe in Mexico

The media (especially the American media) likes to paint Mexico as a dangerous place to visit but the reality is far more complex. While petty theft is very common in Mexico, most of the serious conflicts occur between the authorities and Mexican drug cartels. The people who tend to be involved in major incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid those, and you’ll drastically increase your chances of staying safe.

Moreover, where you are greatly influences how safe you are. Yucatan and Oaxaca are incredibly safe states to visit while states near the US border are less so and more likely to experience violence and crime.

Officials looking for bribes are pretty common in Quintana Roo, as is drug-related violence due to tourists looking for drugs there. States near the southern border can also be sketchy and it’s wiser to keep an eye out on your stuff there though violent crime is pretty uncommon.

So don’t believe the media that “Mexico is unsafe.” Mexico is like any big country – some parts are safe, and some parts aren’t. Use some common sense when you travel: don’t flash your money, avoid wearing expensive watches or jewelry, don’t walk along drunk at night, make copies of your passport and official documents, and tell people where you are regularly.

Another important safety tip to keep in mind is about the water. While Mexico’s water purification and treatment systems have improved, it still is not safe to drink ordinary tap water when visiting. Luckily, bottled water is available everywhere. Bringing water filter like LifeStraw is advised as it has a built-in filter so your water is always clean and safe.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

The emergency services number in Mexico is 911. However, if that doesn’t work (since it isn’t in use in every region of Mexico), try 066.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Mexico Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Mexico Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico and continue planning your trip:

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

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Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

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Travel the Yucatán Peninsula for less: Deals in Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum

With miles of crystal clear waters, white sand beaches and a culture that's steeped in history, it comes as no surprise that the Yucatán Peninsula is home to top travel destinations like Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

The area that separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean Sea consistently captivates globe trotters -- ranking in Google's top 10 summer destinations year after year -- and now "Good Morning America" has taken the trip for less, finding all the best deals and ways to save for Bucket List on a Budget.

Flights to Cancún

Roundtrip airfare from Houston to Cancún typically costs around $200 on airlines like Frontier or Spirit this time of year, but you'll pay extra for baggage.

Budget Travel Tip : Be sure to set a tracker on Google Flights to keep an eye out for the best times to travel for less, and especially if you can be flexible on the dates.

All-inclusive resorts to help save on your stay

Mexico is home to a bevy of beautiful properties, but the best bang for your buck when it comes to accommodations are all-inclusive resorts.

"All-inclusive hotels can be extremely affordable. And the best part is they allow families especially to budget," The Points Guy founder, Brian Kelly, told "GMA."

To make sure you're getting the best deal, he suggested "comparison shop online using online travel agencies, but when you hone in on the one you want, contact them directly and negotiate for an even better rate and extra perks like airport pickups."

"Choose the right resort, whether that's kid friendly or adults-only," Kelly said, "making the right choice is critical to your experience."

"Finally, take advantage of everything there is to offer," he said. "Go to the orientation and pay attention. You'd be shocked at some of the free, valuable activities you can get as part of your stay."

In Playa del Carmen, Sandos Caracol Eco Resort offers up to 55% off the best available rate all summer, plus two kids stay free.

Like many all-inclusives food and drinks are bundled into the price at Sandos Caracol, but so are the activities from pools with waterslides to bike tours.

This region of Mexico is also home to beautiful ancient Mayan ruins and cenotes -- which translates to well -- and the all-natural cavernous pit makes a perfect place for swimming, diving and snorkeling.

Activities to enjoy the area like a local

Book off-site excursions during your stay, whether directly through the resort with any affiliated companies or going directly to an excursion company and ask for any potential discounts.

Tours of Tulum reveal ancient history

Nestled on the cliffs of Tulum lie ancient Mayan ruins that overlook the Caribbean Sea.

Tour services will take visitors through the area to fully experience the ancient Mexican culture, like ruins built over 800 years ago that served as a major port between Mexico and Central America.

Parks and pleasantries in Playa del Carmen

Take a trip to Parque Los Fundadores -- Founding Fathers Park -- in Playa Del Carmen to see free vibrant performances such as the Danza de Los Voladores -- the dance of the flyers.

From there, enjoy some local shopping along Fifth Avenue, but remember to bring cash and make money conversions at a local bank from home before the trip to save on foreign transaction fees.

Learn at least basic Mexican phrases and pleasantries to help make shopping less intimidating, plus being respectful and kind always pays off and it could even potentially help you haggle on prices.

Indulge in Mexican street food

While there's unlimited free food at an all inclusive resort, don't miss the chance to eat like a local and explore some cheap eats from taco stands and street vendors.

Like tacos for under $2 each from El Fogon in Cancún or dessert stands like Fresas Aline in Playa del Carmen that sells fresh strawberries with cream for just $4.

Family fun entertainment aboard a pirate ship

The Captain Hook Pirate Show in Cancún, complete with dancing, sword fights and pirate battles, has deals for up to 20% off advance bookings and kids ages 2-11 go for free.

Plus, all of the dinner options come with a buffet and some of the main dishes are part of a two for the price of one deal.

GMA Travel Picks

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The Best Beaches in Yucatan, Mexico

T he state of Yucatan is one of the most privileged destinations in the Mexican southeast, boasting a perfect climate to enjoy some of the country's most beautiful beaches.

They have also been distinguished as part of the Platinum Beaches by the Mexican Institute of Standardization and Certification, joining the select list of the most famous beaches in Yucatan and Mexico.

The almost 400 kilometers of Yucatan's most famous beaches are home to unparalleled scenery. The state offers jungle environments, picturesque villages, nature reserves, and colorful waters in emerald green tones and, at some points, turquoise blue, which envelop you with their great attraction full of mysticism.

Celestun is one of the most famous beaches in Yucatan. It is a natural and eco-tourism paradise with exceptional landscapes. Its extensive beaches with abundant coconut trees and mangroves will become the ideal setting for lovers of outdoor activities. This area is part of the World Heritage Site of the Ría Celestún Biosphere Special Reserve, home to approximately 400 species of migratory birds that arrive in the state from December to March, making this an unparalleled natural spectacle.

One hour from the city of Merida is Telchac Puerto, the best option for those seeking peace and tranquility during the vacations. Its peaceful waters are perfect for swimming in complete tranquility. You can also visit the Sea Museum, the only area that exhibits various species of marine fossils, snails, shells, and more. This region is one of the most famous beaches in Yucatan.

Not far from there is the beautiful Laguna Rosada, part of the most famous beaches of Yucatan. This water corpus has a unique pink color, belonging to La Salinera de Xtampú. In addition to getting spectacular photos, it is possible to learn more about how salt is extracted.

Transfers from point to point are relatively straightforward, thanks to Yucatan's excellent roads. For this reason, it is advisable to visit the Mayan culture in the archaeological zone of X'Cambó, one of the few ruins near the coast, which is believed to have been an ancient fishing port that supplied the main cities with food.

Cancunito, located in Río Lagartos, is only three hours from the state capital and very close to Las Coloradas, famous for its large pink pools.

Cancunito stands out as one of the most famous beaches in Yucatan and one of the most spectacular, offering visitors fantastic natural scenery. This tropical paradise has abundant mangroves and coastal dunes, which, thanks to its vegetation, form an extraordinary ecosystem where species such as hawksbill, white, and loggerhead sea turtles come to lay their eggs.

Half an hour from Cancunito is San Felipe, a small fishing and tourist port. In San Felipe, rustic wooden houses of multiple colors can be found, which, together with its natural attractions, invite you to enjoy a day at the beach, where the white sand and the peaceful tranquility of the place are everyday things.

Today, San Felipe has become one of the most important tourist spots in Yucatan due to the unique beauty that surrounds it, especially for those who love to coexist with nature.

Last but not least is Rio Lagartos, a small port of fishing tradition that, today, is one of the best-kept "secrets" in the Yucatan Peninsula. At the entrance to a wildlife reserve known as Ría Lagartos (Parque Natural Reserva Ría Lagartos), where you will find the best of nature, it is possible to enter the world of the hundreds of species of birds and crocodiles that live there.

El Cuyo is located on the northeastern tip of Yucatan, only three hours from the state capital. This small paradise is one of the unique corners of the region, right at the end of the Costa Esmeralda. Its main attraction is to be where the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea become one, the nature of its waters mixed with the wind make it ideal for sports such as sailing and kitesurfing.

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Swim in cenotes in Tulum, go on a taco crawl in Mexico City, or taste tequila straight from the source in Jalisco. Find inspiration for your next Mexico trip here.

• Mexico City

2024 Best Hotels in Mexico

Hotels ranked on industry awards, guest reviews and hotel class ratings

Unbiased content created by U.S. News editors

Photo tours of select hotels by local expert  Bel Woodhouse

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Discover the best hotel for you:

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

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WHO confirms first human case of AH5N2 avian influenza in Mexico

The H5N2 variant has been reported in several poultry farms in Mexico; the victim was a 59-year-old man who had no history of animal contact.

The World Health Organization confirmed a fatal case in the first laboratory-confirmed human case of AH5N2 avian influenza infection in Mexico. The agency said the source of exposure to the virus in this case is still unknown.

Authorities said a 59-year-old man had died after testing positive for the AH5N2 avian flu strain. According to the WHO, he died on April 24 after developing a fever, shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea and general malaise. The person had multiple underlying medical conditions and had been bedridden for three weeks, for other reasons, before the onset of acute symptoms.

The patient, originally from the metropolitan area of ​​Mexico City, felt unwell on April 17 but waited a week before seeking help at the hospital. However, he died the same day he was admitted, due to “complications of his condition.”

Authorities have tested 17 people in close contact with the patient at the hospital, including one who reported having a runny nose. All tested negative. At least 12 people who lived near the patient’s home, including seven with symptoms of illness, were also tested for bird flu, although all tested negative.

Authorities are now conducting blood tests to detect antibodies against the virus, which would reveal whether any had a previous infection.

The case had not been previously recorded in humans. The individual had no history of exposure to poultry or other animals, they added. The H5N2 variant has been reported in several poultry pens in Mexico. However, they warned in their alert that “a human infection caused by a new (bird flu) virus is an event that has the potential to have a high impact on public health.”

It differs from the H5N1 strain, which has spread in recent weeks to dairy cows in the United States and has sickened three people in the United States this year, raising concerns about its spread to humans. Since 2022, bird flu in the United States has infected more than 90 million chickens, more than 9,000 wild birds, 67 dairy herds, one person who was exposed to poultry, and three people who were in close contact with infected livestock.

TYT Newsroom

Yucatan Times

Inegi’s “consumer confidence indicator” shows how mexicans are ready to travel this summer, full house at cdmx’s national auditorium to see living legend ringo starr perform, you may also like, casa amate 61″boutique hostel”in merida, backyard birding in merida, yucatan and beyond – clean, cologne, hone, aggression : bird..., city council delivers distinctions for 9 restaurants in merida, a man captures an air whirlwind in a field in sitpach, mérida (watch video), five days after the elections, there is still no winner in progreso, for 60 thousand pesos, men murdered a businessman in san felipe, yucatán, leave a comment cancel reply.

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