Things to Do in Riviera Maya

Playa del Carmen.

Playa del Carmen, located about an hour from Cancun, offers pristine beaches, lively cantinas and restaurants, water sports, and an extensive shopping zone for finding the perfect vacation souvenir. Commonly referred to as Playa, this seaside town is a fun day trip from Cancun and offers a taste of authentic Yucatan culture. Visit www.playadelcarmen.com.

Cozumel.

Situated 12 miles off the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel is the largest island in Mexico. Cozumel's legendary coral reefs and abundance of brilliant Caribbean marine life attract scuba divers from around the world. Chankanaab National Park and Punta Sur Ecological Reserve are two noteworthy island attractions that celebrate Cozumels renowned marine life. Visitors to Cozumel also enjoy shopping for Mexican handicrafts, dining, and relaxing on the beach. Visit www.islacozumel.com.  [Top]

Chichen Itza.

A day trip to the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza is a must for any visitor to Cancun. Named one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is among the most visited attractions in the Yucatan. Although much of the Mayan civilization is shrouded in mystery, excavations and restoration projects reveal that an extensive community prospered at Chichen Itza between 700AD and 900AD. The ruins, including the famous Temple of the Warriors and Pyramid of Kukulkan comprise four square miles. Visit http://www.yucatantoday.com/destinations/eng-chichen-itza.php.

Coba.

Located west of Tulum in the dense Yucatan jungle, Coba is a fascinating experience in archeological discovery. Coba is believed to be the largest ancient Mayan city, and features the second tallest pyramid of the Mayan world. Much of the Coba area that spans roughly 50km is currently under excavation. Tours here are primitive, yet offer the perk of watching archeologists at work. Visit http://www.differentworld.com/mexico/areas/caribbean-coast/coba/guide.htm.  [Top]

Xcaret Eco Theme Park.

Explore the natural and cultural history of Mexico at Xcaret Eco Theme Park in Playa del Carmen. Xcaret offers a variety of exciting attractions and activities including archeological sites, underground river exploration, Mayan village, Caribbean aquarium, and a Swim with Dolphins program. Visit www.xcaret.com.

Tulum.

The tiny pueblo of Tulum is located 80 miles south of Cancun on the Punta Allen Peninsula. Tulum is best known for white sand beaches, Mayan ruins that overlook the Caribbean, and the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve. The Tulum ruins indicate a walled city that served as an important seaport in the 13th century for trade between Honduras and the Yucatan. The Temple of the Frescoes and Castillo are two of the most famous ruins in this region. Visit www.travelyucatan.com.  [Top]

Canopy Adventure Tours.

A variety of recreation outfitters offer exciting adventure tours that have guests zipping high above the Yucatan Mayan jungle canopy. Guests experience the thrill of being harnessed to a series of zip lines that traverse more than two miles over a series of 24 platforms. The Mayan jungle canopy zip lines structure is the longest in Mexico. Visit www.cancunvista.com.

La Casa del Arte Popular Mexicano.

La Casa del Arte Popular Mexicano museum, located at the El Embarcadero marina in Cancun, celebrates the art and culture of Mexicos many different regions. The museums collection features original works of art by acclaimed Mexican artists, folk art, artifacts, and life-size displays that depict Mexican daily life and customs.  [Top]

Horseback Riding.

Explore the beaches and jungle of Riviera Maya on an exciting horseback riding tour. Guided tours are offered through a variety of qualified adventure companies that include hotel transfers, horse rental, and refreshments. Experienced equestrians are often permitted to gallop their horses on the beach. Visit http://www.cancun-discounts.com/tours/cancun/horseback-riding-loma-bonita.htm.

Scuba Diving/Snorkeling.

Riviera Maya offers world-class scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. The crystal clear Caribbean sea thrives with vibrant marine life. Some of the best diving and snorkeling is located off the shores of Cozumel. Riviera Maya also offers the unique experience of diving in cenotes, or fresh-water underground caverns found few places on earth. Visit http://www.cancun-discounts.com/cancun-scuba-diving.htm.  [Top]