places to visit yucatan

Yucatan Mexico: 25 Best Places to Visit in 2024

Discover the best things to do in Yucatan Peninsula

As one of the most visited areas in Mexico, which spans three states — Quintana Roo, Yucatan and Campeche — there’s so much to see in Yucatan Mexico.

From cenotes to Mayan ruins, pueblos magicos (magic towns) to Mexico UNESCO World Heritage sites, there’s so many things to do in Yucatan Mexico.

The Yucatan Peninsula is located in southeastern Mexico; half along the Caribbean Sea, and half bordering the Gulf of Mexico.

It sits on some of the most beautiful real estate in the country, which is why this list is so long with so many best places in Yucatan that you must know about.

So how do you pick the can’t miss places to see in the Yucatan!? You turn to the experts, of course! 

In this article, you’ll find a list of the must see Yucatan Mexico cities, nature, archeological sites and more.

This list, lovingly curated by 25 travel bloggers who have visited and vetted these places for you, highlights all the must see Yucatan travel destinations.

Ready to find out what they are?

Keep scrolling to see the full list of 25 amazing Yucatan places to visit, and make sure to check out the Yucatan map below so you know where everything is. This map will help you create the most epic Yucatan itinerary for your Mexico trip.

best places in yucatan peninsula

Yucatan peninsula map.

For your convenience, all 25 places to see in Yucatan mentioned in this article are pinned to the map above.

It’s the perfect way to plan the most amazing Mexico travel itinerary — whether you’re doing a Yucatan Mexico road trip, or staying in one area, you can use it to plan your Yucatan trip.

Yucatan Travel Tip s

Download an offline map via Google Maps or Maps.me , as your cell signal will go in and out as you head to some of the more remote places to visit in Yucatan.

📲 Better yet, buy a Mexico SIM card so you have the best connectivity.

best places in yucatan Mexico: colonial Cities & Towns

Tulum, Mexico is a tropical paradise, known for its soft, white sand beaches, turquoise waters and bohemian vibe.

Nicknamed “the Bali of Mexico,” Tulum is a great place to visit for a beach escape, especially for U.S. travelers, as it’s so much closer than Bali, Indonesia .

🗿 Tulum Mayan Ruins

Tulum also has some of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico , and the entire Yucatan Peninsula, located right on the beach.

The Tulum Ruins overlook the Caribbean Sea, and after visiting, you can walk down to the beach beneath and jump right in.

This 13th Century Mexican archeological site sits on a cliff overlooking one of the best beaches in Tulum, Playita Tortuga AKA Tulum Ruins Beach.

At only $80 pesos ($4USD) to enter, a visit to the Tulum Ruins is one of the most inexpensive and best things to do in Tulum on a budget .

💧 Tulum cenotes (Jungle pools)

Besides its famous beaches, the gorgeous Tulum cenotes are among the best things to see in Tulum on your trip.

Cenotes are natural waterholes in the jungle, located both above ground or in underground caves; each unique in their own ways.

Considered among the best cenotes in Tulum , you’ll want to spend some time swimming at some of these: Gran Cenote, Cenote Calavera, Cenote Dos Ojos and Cenote Suytun .

If this will be your first cenote visit, check out this  Cenote FAQ  to ensure you’re practicing sustainable tourism in Mexico.

📸 Tulum INSTAGRAM spots

After a day out, check out these Instagram worthy Tulum places:

• At Azulik Tulum , spoil yourself with a spa treatment.
• Check out the famous Ven a la Luz sculpture at Raw Love Cafe.
• Relax while sipping sunset cocktails at the best beach clubs in Tulum, Casa Malca and Coco Tulum .

Contributed by Alanna of the Great Ocean Road Collective , who recommends Tulum because it has everything you need for a wonderful vacation: white sands, natural wonders and cultural sites.

For more info, head to Ultimate Tulum Travel Planning Guide for First Time Visitors .

best places in yucatan Mexico

The capital of Yucatan State, Merida, Mexico , has stayed under the travel radar for many years.

This is quickly changing — as it’s one of the few colonial that offer a taste of Mexico’s rich history and authentic culture, without being too touristy.

Mexico’s 13th largest city boasts many cultural landmarks, world-class museums , colonial architecture, nearby Mexico Mayan ruins , free walking tours and much more.

📸 Merida Things to Do

For those who visit, there’s no end to the amazing cultural activities and things to do in Merida Yucatan .

In Merida, you’ll find local artisan shops selling everything from Mayan hammocks to huipil (tunics) and guayabera shirts, and street vendors making marquesitas (crepes).

There’s also local mercados (markets) where you can hear live music and try traditional Yucatan foods , like cochinita pibil .

While traveling to Merida, don’t miss the must see places: Paseo de Montejo, and also the Catedral de Merida (Merida Cathedral) and Museo Casa Montejo Museum.

The last two are both located in Plaza Grande. This is the Main Plaza in downtown Merida, Mexico , and a Mexican culture hub in the city.

Looking for the best places to stay in Merida Mexico? Check out these best Merida hotels , and best Merida Airbnb rentals — all located in the best neighborhoods in Merida Mexico.

Located near downtown, head to the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Mayan World Museum), with the largest collection of Mayan artifacts in any Merida museum.

If you have more time and a rental car , visit the Mayan ruins on a day trip from Merida to Mayapan, Dzibilchaltun and Uxmal.

Contributed by Daria of The Discovery Nut, who recommends Merida because of its amazing history, culture and friendly people. Of all cities in Yucatán Mexico, Merida is known as the safest city in Mexico .

For more info, head to Merida Yucatan Mexico: A Locals’ Guide to Things to Do, Hotels & More .

3. Playa del Carmen

An alternative to the busier tourist hub of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Mexico is a picturesque beach location in the Riviera Maya.

While Cancun is an easy day trip at just an hour away, Playa del Carmen teems with life of its own as a popular Yucatan in Mexico destination.

From its humble beginnings as a small fishing town, to a top Mexico beach destination , visitors flock to Playa del Carmen and its bustling Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue).

This main street is the centre of Playa del Carmen activity, and features spectacular shopping, restaurants, cafes, and great bars. 

🚙💨 Best Playa del Carmen day trips

Head to the end of 5th Avenue to the Muelle Playa Del Carmen (dock), and book your ticket for the fast ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel .

You’re also not far from Tulum, Chichén Itzá pyramids, and numerous cenotes near Playa .

Want to treat yourself to a beachfront Playa del Carmen resort?

Acanto has beautiful, secure apartments with private rooftop villas looking out over the Caribbean Sea. There are also many amazing Playa del Carmen all inclusive resorts .

For a fun night out, book a reservation at Alux Restaurant, a Playa del Carmen restaurant located inside an actual cave.

From there, end the night at Coco Bongo , a Cirque du Soleil meets Moulin Rouge meets nightclub experience.

Contributed by Holly from Globeblogging , who recommends Playa because the Playa del Carmen hotels and resorts are among the best in Mexico.

For more info, head to Traveling to Playa del Carmen: The Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide .

One of the most recognized places in Mexico, is the coastal city of Cancun, Mexico .

It is the entry point to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula for many, and is well known for its white sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, year-round warm weather, and bustling nightlife.

All these things make Cancun one of the top tourist destinations in the world, and one of Mexico’s major cities.

However, there’s more to Cancun than just beautiful beaches and partying — like all the nearby Yucatan nature and biodiversity that is often underrated, and also, under-visited .

Between the Cancun Underwater Museum and the seven lagoons at Laguna Nichupte — ideal for kayaking, scuba diving , snorkeling and jet skiing — there’s no shortage of unique things to do in Cancun.

Just south of Cancun, don’t miss the laid back beach town of Puerto Morelos .

If you’re not planning to stay at an all inclusive resort and want to experience the off the beaten path side of this Mexico travel destination, opt for one of these affordable Cancun Airbnbs .

Contributed by Roshni of The Wanderlust Within, who recommends Cancun because it’s more than a party destination, and has plenty of nature and adventure spots to explore.

For more info, head to Is Cancun Safe to Travel to Right Now?

Best Places in Yucatan Mexico: Pueblos Magicos in Yucatan

5. isla mujeres.

When looking for the best places to visit in Yucatan Mexico, you can’t miss out on Isla Mujeres — one of the best resort towns in Mexico . While its name translates to Island of Women, men can visit Isla Mujeres too!

Isla Mujeres is one of the best beach towns in Mexico, and one of the 135 or so Mexico pueblos magicos (magic towns) .

It is considered “magical” for both for its unique folkloric ties to Ixchel , the Mayan goddess of the moon , medicine and happiness, and for its immense tropical beauty.

Known for its world-class beaches and welcoming tourist scene, Isla Mujeres is one of the safest places in Mexico to visit. If you visit from May to September, you can swim with the whale sharks in Isla Mujeres .

It makes the perfect getaway spot from more popular and crowded beaches Cancun. In fact, Isla Mujeres is one of the most popular and best Cancun day trips.

things to do in isla mujeres, Mexico

Whether coming to Isla Mujeres to get a PADI scuba diving certification and visit the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA Museum), or to photograph the Instafamous colorful homes of Isla Mujeres — there is plenty to do for all types of travelers on this laid-back Mexico island.

For those who just want to relax and drink beers on the beach, head to Isla Brewing Company on the north side of the island.

This is one of the best bars in Isla Mujeres Mexico, and the perfect place to sample Mexican craft beers in the Yucatan.

how to get to isla mujeres from cancun

Arriving at this island paradise is easy, as it’s located only about 10 miles east of Cancun by ferry, just across the Bahía de Mujeres. Coming from Playa del Carmen? It’s just a one hour drive to the Isla Mujeres ferry docks in Cancun.

From Cancun, head to your closest ferry port, Playa Tortugas, El Embarcadero or Playa Caracol, and take the short ferry ride over.

Depending on where you catch on the ferry, the ride is just 15-30 minutes — meaning definitely incorporate an Isla Mujeres day trip in with your Cancun itinerary.

Contributed by Daniel of Layer Culture, who recommends Isla Mujeres for its safe, welcoming culture, and a nice escape from the more crowded beaches of Cancun. 

6. Valladolid

Valladolid, Mexico is bursting at the seams with charm!

One of the best small towns Yucatán state has, Valladolid is easily visited on a day trip from Cancun, Tulum or Merida .

However, an overnight stay in one of the best hotels in Valladolid is recommended to be able to soak up all this town has to offer.

In the centre of town, La Calzada de los Frailes, is known for its bunting-filled beauty and quality souvenir boutiques. This street and Calle 50 are two of the prettiest streets and popular destinations in Valladolid.

Follow La Calzada de los Frailes to the end and to see the next must-visit attraction, El Convento de San Bernandino.

European missionaries and Spanish conquistadors used this fort-like convent to spread Catholicism to the Mexican Yucatan natives from the 16th Century onwards.

Another place you don’t want to miss is Cenote Zaci . This semi-covered cenote is located right in the middle of downtown, and one of the best cenotes in Valladolid .

It is 300-feet-deep (100 m), so you can dive in, and there’s also a restaurant just above it serving traditional Yucatecan cuisine .

Contributed by Lozzy of Cuppa to Copa Travels, who recommends Valladolid for its easily accessible cenotes.

For more info, head to 10 Best Things to Do in Valladolid, Mexico: Cenotes, Ruins & Hotels .

7. Izamal “The Yellow City”

Located in the heart of Yucatan State, Izamal is a small colonial town and pueblo magico (Mexico magic town), known as the “Yellow City.”

Due to its location, Izamal makes the perfect place for a d ay trip from Me rida , or even a day trip from Valladolid .

What makes Izamal, Mexico , special is the fact that all of its buildings are the same shade of yellow. It is one of just a few monochromatic cities on Earth, along with Chefchaouen, the “Blue City” in Morocco.

There’s an abundance of charming historical houses with beautiful doorways, courtyards and yellow facades which create a truly unique ambience.

Walking around, those picturesque streets will make you feel like you’ve taken a journey back in time.

One of the most famous buildings in Izamal is the Convent of San Antonio de Padua. There you’ll find a church, monastery and a huge courtyard surrounded by arches and columns.

It’s definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in the Yucatan, so make sure to bring your camera.

There’s no clear answer to Why is Izamal, Mexico painted yellow?

Some say it’s because the Mayans worshiped their sun god there; some say it was painted yellow like the Vatican flag in honor of Pope John Paul II’s visit to the city in 1993; others say it’s due to locals’ affection for corn.

One thing, however, is certain — No visit to the Yucatán Peninsula Mexico is complete without seeing the Izamal pueblo magico and Kinich Kakmo Pyramid (Izamal Mayan Ruins).

The ruins are just a short distance from the convent and central plaza.

Contributed by Marjut of The Smooth Escape, who recommends Izamal because of its magnificent yellow streets.

For more info, head to Izamal Mexico: Visiting the Yellow City in Yucatan .

8. Bacalar Lagoon

Bacalar Lagoon, located in the pueblo magico (magic town) of Bacalar, has long been a favorite spot for escaping the crowded Yucatan beaches by in-the-know Mexico travelers and those who like venturing off the beaten path .

Laguna Bacalar hotels and resorts located along the shore entice guests to relax with over-the-water hammocks and swings.

For non-guests, day passes can be purchased or are available to those who order food and drinks at lakeside restaurants.

The lake is nicknamed the Lagoon of Seven Colors, as the waters vary in shades of blue throughout.

The best way to explore this large lagoon is on a boat tour , to see the Bacalar cenotes , stromatolite rock formations, and best snorkeling spots.

Enjoy a mud facial, using the rejuvenating white sand at the bottom of Bacalar Lagoon — a popular activity in the Canal de los Piratas (Pirate’s Channel).

This channel is one of the stops on most Bacalar boat tours, in addition to the popular Bacalar cenotes like Cenote Esmerelda and Cenote la Bruja. 

Even after the sun goes down, you still have tour options. Catch a sunset boat cruise that stops at the Isla de Pajaros (Bird Island), where the birds migrate at the end of the day.

This migration is a truly magical sight, even for those who are not usually bird watchers.

As Bacalar is located only about 45-minutes from the Belize border, many visitors go to Central America from Bacalar. Visitors to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye in Belize can also include a Bacalar day trip with their Belize itinerary .

Contributed by Annick Lenoir-Peek of The Common Traveler, who recommends Bacalar because of the water’s mesmerizing shades of blue.

For more info, head to Bacalar Lagoon Mexico: How to Plan the Ultimate Trip .

Best places in Yucatan: Off the Beaten Path

9. holbox island.

The picture-perfect Mexican Caribbean island of Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh ), has the kind of chill, bohemian feel you won’t find in the more popular Mexico beach destinations.

Wondering how to get to Holbox Island? Head to this article to see your Cancun to Holbox Island travel options.

The town’s roads are “paved” in beach sand, and can only be explored by bicycle or golf cart; one of the charming quirks of Isla Holbox.

There are no chain hotels in Holbox or chain restaurants; only local businesses. Treat yourself to Margaritas and a Holbox lobster pizza with a clean conscience!

Better yet, the perfect Holbox Island beaches are fringed with palm trees and there’s little trash or pollution to speak of.

⛵️ Best Things to do in Isla Holbox

Beautiful both during the day and at night, head to Punta Cocos beach for sunset, and then stick around to see the bioluminescence light up the water and sand.

There’s so many things to do in Holbox — kayaking through the mangroves , snorkeling, swimming with whale sharks in Holbox (seasonal from June 1-September 15), and cycling around the island by bike.

On foot, stroll Downtown Holbox to see its colorful street art murals.

Isla Holbox, Mexico is colorful, beautiful town, teeming with authentic Mexican culture, beautiful nature and fresh, delicious local Mexican cuisine .

Based on that, what’s not to love about this off the beaten path Yucatan beach town — a true hidden gem Mexico has!

Contributed by Rose of Where Goes Rose? , who recommends Isla Holbox because it makes for a peaceful and unspoiled island getaway.

For more info, head to 27 Best Things to Do in Holbox Island, Mexico

10. Hacienda Yaxcopoil

Once upon a time, Hacienda Yaxcopoil (pronounced yash-coh-poh-eel ) was one of the most important and best Yucatan haciendas .

In its prime, the hacienda, whose name means “the place of the green alamo trees” in Mayan, covered 22,000 acres, or 34 square miles.

It operated first as a cattle ranch, and later as a henequen plantation, only stopping production in 1988 when Hurricane Gilbert wiped out the entire henequen crop.

Henequen, a plant fiber used to make rope twine, was once the most important cash crop in the Yucatan Peninsula.

The hacienda is open to visitors today, although unlike many estates in the area, it hasn’t been restored. What this means, is that you can really step back in time and imagine what it must have looked like in its heyday.

Visitors can tour the Casa Principal (Main house) and Casa de Maquina (Machine House).

The machine house is where the henequen -shredding machines removed fibers from the henequen plant — and with workers expected to pick 2,000 leaves a day, the machine house was always busy.

🏰 Looking for a hotel hacienda? Yucatan state has a few! If you want to stay in a Yucatan hacienda, check out these best haciendas in Yucatan .

There’s also a guest house on the Hacienda Yaxcopoil property for overnight stays. Nearby Hacienda Petac is another great Yucatan hacienda, available for rentals and stays.

Contributed by Katja of Globetotting, who recommends Hacienda Yaxcopoil as one of the best haciendas in Mexico Yucatán, and a real step back in time.

11. Las Coloradas (Pink Lakes)

The vibrant and unusually colored pink waters of Las Coloradas have grown in popularity over the years, thanks to social media, and have since drawn admirers from all across the globe.

Nowadays, many say their trip to the Yucatan Peninsula isn’t complete without seeing the pink lakes of Mexico.

The pink lakes in Las Coloradas get their signature shade from the water reflecting off red and pink colored marine life such as plankton, brine shrimp and algae.

These organisms all thrive in highly concentrated saltwater, which is produced by the nearby salt production factory.

Although visitors can no longer swim in the pink lakes, there are still opportunities to get up and close to the colorful waters by hiring a local tour guide in Rio Lagartos , the town closest to Las Coloradas.

If you’re coming from Merida, you can also book your Las Coloradas tour online.

Those headed to the prismatic destination should be warned that there’s not much protection from the elements around Las Coloradas.

When heading there, double-check the weather and make sure to wear a hat and eco-friendly sunscreen !

Contributed by Michelle of Wander Eat Write , who recommends Las Coloradas because it’s the only pink lake in Latin America, and one of just 30 in the world.

💖 The best way to see the Mexico pink lakes? On one of these Las Coloradas Tours !

Best places in Yucatan: Yucatan Cenotes

12. calavera cenote.

Cenote Calavera is one of the most Instagram worthy and best cenotes in Tulum !

If you’re wondering, What are cenotes?! — Cenotes are swimmable sinkholes containing freshwater. They are located in only a few places on Earth, with about 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Getting to Cenote Calavera from Downtown Tulum is easy, as it’s just 1.5 miles (3 km) north of town.

You can drive your Mexico rental car or hire a taxi for the day since you’ll want to visit the rest of the cenotes near this one, like Cenote Zacil-Ha and Gran Cenote.

Cenote Calavera, which means “skull” in Spanish, has three holes — one larger one, and two smaller ones that look like eyes — so it’s easy to see where it gets its name from.

If this is your first trip to Tulum, you must add this unique cenote to your Tulum Mexico itinerary .

The larger hole has a ladder and a rope swing, which is perfect for lounging on while the little fish in the cenote nibble at your toes.

You can jump into the refreshing waters from all three holes, but be careful jumping into the smaller holes.

After jumping in, swim around and look up to see if you can spot the bats that frequent this cenote — one of the most unique and best cenotes in Mexico .

As with most Yucatan cenotes, make sure to arrive early because they can get busy. Cenote Calavera is quite small and does fill up fast; it’s definitely more enjoyable when it’s quieter.

This cenote is open from about 9am-4pm and costs around $100 pesos ($5USD) per person for entry.

Contributed by Hannah of That Adventurer, who recommends Cenote Calavera for its crystal clear waters and unique skull shape.

For more info, head to 10 Best Cenote Tours in Tulum: Visit All the Best Tulum Cenotes .

13. Ik Kil Cenote

Hands down, one of the most impressive and famous cenotes in Mexico is Ik Kil in the Yucatan Peninsula near the pueblo mágico of Valladolid .

It is located only 3.5 miles (7 km) from Chichen Itza , so many people opt for a Chichen Itza-Cenote Ik Kil combo trip.

This massive sinkhole of Cenote Ik Kil is unique in the fact that its walls are completely vertical and form a circle around the swimming hole.

On top of that, vines hang from the walls and roof into the water, making it look almost magical. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Mexico .

Ik Kil Cenote is open daily, from 9am-5pm. Tour groups heading to Chichen Itza often fill the cenote between the hours of 11:30am-3:30pm.

For those who want to visit Cenote Ik Kil when it’s less busy, go outside of these peak hours. It is open daily, from about 9am-5pm.

There is a large parking lot at the cenote for those driving, and the Cenote Ik Kil entrance fee is $80 pesos ($4USD).

Locker rentals are an extra $30 pesos ($2USD). As with many places in Mexico, Cenote Ik Kil is cash only.

Contributed by Bailey of Destinationless Travel, who recommends Cenote Ik Kil because it is a magical place to swim .

14. Dos Ojos Cenote

Located right underneath the Mexico Yucatan Peninsula, flows an immense underground river system, with thousands of cenotes, or sinkholes.

The cenotes serve as access points to these cave systems , including the Sac Actun System, the longest flooded cave system in the world.

Tulum is home to some of the best cenotes in Mexico, and many of these jungle pools are also amazing dive sites — including Cenote Dos Ojos, one of the best cenotes for diving in Mexico.

It is also popular for Tulum snorkeling , with numerous snorkelers and divers and exploring it daily.

The name dos ojos , means “two eyes” in Spanish. This refers to the two oval-shaped cenotes that make up what’s called Cenote Dos Ojos . These two large cenotes are connected by a 1,320-foot-long (400 m) cavern.

You can snorkel independently or with a tour, or do a Dos Ojos Cenote diving tour through the caverns, where you’ll see bats, stalactites and the cenote’s famous blue water.

Note: You must have a diving certification to dive the cenotes in Mexico.

There’s incredible visibility, plenty of natural light and warm water temperatures of about 77°F (25°C) year-round, which makes the “Two Eyes Cenote” an ideal place for diving and snorkeling all year.

This cenote is open daily, from 8am-5pm, and costs $350 pesos ($17USD) per person for entry.

Contributed by Alya of Stingy Nomads, who recommends Cenote Dos Ojos because it offers unreal scuba diving or snorkeling in one of the largest underwater cave systems in Mexico.

For more info, head to 35 Best Tulum Cenotes + Free Cenotes in Tulum Map .

Best Places in Yucatan: Mayan Ruins in Yucatan

15. chichen itza.

Chichen Itza is the largest and the most impressive of the Yucatan Mayan ruins sites.

Its main pyramid, El Castillo (The Castle), is one of the most photographed historical sites on Earth. This ancient Mayan pyramid dates back to 600 AD — making it more than 1,420-years-old.

Dedicated to the Mayan feathered serpent deity, Kukulcan, this Mayan temple was the most important pyramid at Chichen Itza. It was central to religion and commerce, meaning all residents and business thrived in and around it.

Like most important places, Chichen Itza was reserved for the upper echelon of society .

🗿 visiting chichen itza ruins

Nowadays, everyone can tour the site; in fact, about two million people visit Chichen Itza state of Yucatan, Mexico each year. Fun Fact: Teootihuacan Ruins near Mexico City also sees two million annual visitors.

Other than this pyramid, there are other things to see at Chichen Itza including the Sacred Cenote, Ball Courts, Temple of the Warriors and Platform of the Skulls. When visiting, plan to spend 3-5 hours exploring.

Chichen Itza entrance fee is $481 pesos ($25USD), and it is open daily, 8am-5pm.

💡 Yucatan Travel Tip s: You can not climb the pyramids at Chichen Itza! If you want to climb the Mayan pyramids in Yucatán, head to Uxmal, Coba and Ek-Balam.

Chichen Itza is located right near Valladolid pueblo magico , and makes for the perfect day trip from Merida , though you can access it from anywhere in the Yucatan Peninsula.

There is a large parking lot on site for those who are driving their rental cars ; Chichen Itza parking costs $30 pesos ($2USD).

Chichen Itza Equinox Celebration

Every year, during the Spring and Fall Equinoxes, thousands visit Chichen Itza to see a special phenomenon.

On these two days, when the sun hits the exact right point, the shadow cast on El Castillo – Chichen Itza Pyramid makes it look like a serpent is slithering down the steps . 

Contributed by Mayuri from To Some Place New, who recommends visiting Chichen Itza as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and a great learning experience for history and culture lovers.

For more info, head to 25 Best Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan: Chichen Itza, Tulum Ruins, Coba .

16. Coba Ruins

The Coba Mayan ruins offer a unique insight into the life of this ancient civilization.

If you’re debating Chichen Itza vs Coba, know that Coba is easily accessible, but see a lot fewer tourists than Chichen Itza and the Tulum Ruins .

🦟 Yucatan Travel Tip s: The Coba ruins are deep in the jungle, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray . If bugs aren’t your thing, check out the for the ancient Mayan Ruins of Ek Balam instead.

The Coba Yucatan archaeological site is also not as curated as other Maya ruins sites, but kept rather natural.

At times, you might see a structure getting “devoured” by the jungle, or get a glimpse of an unfamiliar animal roaming around, like this adorable coati .

Around 500 AD, Nohoch Mul, the main pyramid in Coba was also the centerpiece of a vibrant city boasting 50,000 inhabitants. Standing 138-feet-tall (42 m), it is the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula ever discovered.

Note: This Mexico pyramid is also called Ixmoja.

The thing best about this site is you can climb up to the top of the Nohoch Mul Coba pyramid!

Going up the 120 stone steps is challenging, especially towards the top, because they are narrow, somewhat worn out and can be slippery — but don’t worry, there’s a rope to hold on to. 

This temple and Mayan pyramid was only meant to be climbed by the priests, who made sacrifices to the gods.

It is incredible to think that these days, everyday people can enjoy this majestic view, once reserved for nobles only a few centuries ago. Coba is truly one of the coolest historic sites in Yucatan Mexico.

Contributed by Eva Milano of Elevate Calm , who recommends Coba because visitors are allowed to climb its Mayan ruins. Though just a short drive from Tulum, Coba feels like it’s a world away, and shows what existed before the Spanish Conquest.

17. Uxmal Ruins

Uxmal (pronounced yoush-mall ) is an ancient Mayan city, and one of the most important Yucatan archaeological sites in Mexico.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Uxmal is considered the best representation of Mayan culture and architecture still standing today.

As you enter Uxmal Ruins, you’re greeted by the 115-foot-tall (35 m) Pyramid of the Magician, the tallest Uxmal pyramid.

Note: As a Mexico UNESCO site, and a sacred site to the Mayan people, visitors can not climb this pyramid.

This pyramid is also known as the Pyramid of the Dwarf, and both of these names derive from a legend about a magical dwarf who hatched from an egg, grew to adulthood in a single day, and built the pyramid in one night.

This is the one building you cannot climb at Uxmal.

The Governor’s Palace Uxmal rivals the Magician’s Pyramid as the masterpiece of the Uxmal Mayan Ruins.

With its incredible carvings of the stone masks of the Mayan god Chaac slithering across the façade, and its two-headed jaguar throne, this was the once-Palace of Mayan Chiefs.

The Uxmal site dates back before 10BC, and is full of Mayan symbols and legends. There is even a hidden garden, the Temple de los Falos , said to be dedicated to the dwarf’s goddess mother.

Best Hotels in Uxmal

When coming Cancun or Tulum, Uxmal is quite remote and you’ll want to book a hotel in Uxmal .

Besides the Uxmal Pyramids, there’s other Mayan Ruins sites on the Ruta Puuc , Choco-Story Chocolate Museum and Uxmal Mayan Planetarium — so plenty of things to do in Uxmal, Mexico.

Contributed by Faith of XYUAndBeyond, who recommends Uxmal because of its importance in understanding the Mayan people and local culture .

Uxmal is also one of the most unique small villages in the entire Yucatan Peninsula , and you may even hear Mayan languages spoken!

Best places in Yucatan: Best Yucatan Beaches

18. cozumel.

Cozumel Island sits off the coast of Mexico’s Riviera Maya. There’s the small Cozumel Airport (code: CZM), but it’s also easily reachable by ferry from Playa del Carmen.

In fact, this is one of the most common and best Playa del Carmen day trips.

The thing that makes the Island of Cozumel Mexico a must-visit destination is because there are so many things to do in Cozumel.

From delectable food and Mayan ruins, to luxury hotels and resorts , white sand beaches and world-class diving and snorkeling — Cozumel has it all.

Plan for at least a two-day Cozumel visit , as there’s so much to see in Cozumel.

Even with just one day, don’t miss snorkeling in the Cozumel coral reefs, which are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world’s second largest reef system, after the Great Barrier Reef.

Cozumel Itinerary

On Day 1 of your Cozumel itinerary, tour the island and stop off at some of the main attractions. Punta Sur Eco Park is a fantastic spot to visit some of the best beaches in Cozumel and island’s nature.

Next, head to San Gervasio Mayan Ruins and learn about the role Cozumel played in Mayan culture.

On your Day 2, schedule a diving or snorkeling excursion so you can check out the famous Palancar Reef , which lies just off the coast of Cozumel.

You’re sure to spot all kinds of marvelous sea life, including reef sharks, colorful tropical fish, rays, and even sea turtles.

Cozumel Travel Tips: When packing for Mexico , don’t forget your eco-friendly reef-safe sunscreen to help preserve the natural ecosystem 🐠🐟🐡🐬

The best way to get around on Cozumel is by renting a Jeep . There is public transportation on the island, but you’ll appreciate the convenience of having your own wheels.

You can rent scooters or cars when you walk off the ferry, but it’s wise to reserve in advance so you can secure the best rates.

19. El Cuyo

👀 Picture this: Endless white sand beaches, an emerald green sea, dolphins doing flips off in the horizon, and manta rays coming close to the shore… While this does sound like the Mexican Caribbean coast, it’s not.

This is El Cuyo, Mexico — the most up-and-coming beach destination in Mexico, and as some would say, the perfect alternative to the pricey Riviera Maya.

For similar destination recommendations, check out the 10 Best Yucatan Beaches on the Gulf of Mexico .

Located about two hours from Cancún on the Yucatan coast, El Cuyo Mexico was first discovered by kite surfers.

However, beach lovers and peace-seekers soon discovered this laid back town, located far enough from the crowds to disconnect from everything and simply enjoy the beach.

El Cuyo is a small town with mostly boutique hotels ; unlike other top Mexico beach destinations, you can stay right on the beach for just a few extra bucks.

As tourism has increased, new hotels, great El Cuyo restaurants like El Chile Gordo , and cute breakfast spots like Naia Cafe , keep popping up.

There is a lot to love about El Cuyo, starting with the colony of wild pink flamingos that welcome you as you enter the village.

There’s also kitesurfing schools, ATV tours to the pink lakes of Las Coloradas Mexico, paddle boarding, kayaking, birdwatching , and yoga classes.

Contributed by Isabella of Let’s Travel to Mexico, who recommends El Cuyo Yucatan because it’s a peaceful beach destination with laid back vibes, reasonable prices, and all you need for a perfect Mexico beach vacation.

20. Mahahual

Mahahual (pronounced ma-ha-wall ) is a beautiful, small beach town on the Caribbean Sea. It is a popular destination for Mexico cruises and visitors who want to venture off the beaten path to one of Mexico’s best beaches.

Mahahual Mexico used to be a quaint fishing village, though is now on the map as one of the best beaches in Yucatan Mexico.

Today, it does retain a lot of the same small town fishing village feel, but without any large all inclusive Mexico resorts or chain restaurants.

Instead, there are small boutique hotels in Mahahual just off of the beach, restaurants and bars scattered on the beach, and a beautiful promenade next to the beach.

It sees far less people than bigger travel destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen , but the beaches are just as nice.

Mahahual Beach is one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, thanks to its soft white sand, and warm, crystal clear blue waters.

One of the best things to do in Mahahual is take a boat cruise to fish and snorkel the nearby coral reefs to see the marine life, sea turtles 🐢 and more.

The closest international airport to Mahahual is Cancun International Airport. After arriving, you’ll need to drive your rental car four hours south to reach it. For a deep dive on this, check out this Cancun to Mahahual travel guide .

You can also travel to Mahahual easily from the Puerto Costa Maya, the cruise port where all the Mahahual cruise ships dock.

From there, you can drive or catch a taxi just outside the entrance gate, and for $1USD per person, be dropped off at Mahahual Beach 10 minutes later.

Located in southern Quintana Roo state, many combine a visit to Bacalar Lagoon , known as “the Maldives of Mexico,” with their Mahahual trip.

There’s also Costa Maya Mayan Ruins near Mahahual to explore, including Kohunlich , Dzibanche and Chacchoben .

Contributed by Nicole Hunter of Go Far Grow Close, who recommends Mahahual Beach, Costa Maya Mexico to anyone who wants to experience Mexico and the Caribbean Sea away from the crowds.

Of all the amazing places to see in the Yucatan Peninsula, one place you absolutely can’t miss seeing is Akumal Bay.

Akumal is a small town located 65 miles south of Cancun, 25 miles south of Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya, and 30 miles north of Tulum .

Akumal, Mexico gained notoriety as a scuba diving oasis, with its easy access to a large Caribbean Reef just off the shore. It is also one of the best places to snorkel in Mexico.

When packing, don’t forget your eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen to help preserve the natural ecosystem 🐢💙

Akumal Snorkeling: Swim With the Turtles

Today, the most popular activity to do in Akumal is snorkeling with the sea turtles that live in the shallow waters just off-shore.

The Akumal turtles love this area because the reef blocks the incoming tides, creating calmer waters and allowing a plethora of seagrass to grow.

There are a few different ways to see the turtles, the easiest being an Akumal snorkeling tour .

When booking a tour, make sure it’s with a licensed tour guide. Licensed tour guides should, first and foremost, protect the turtles and make sure people don’t getting too close or invade their space.

When swimming, make sure to stay at least 10 feet away from the turtles at all times and only watch one turtle feeding for a maximum of five minutes.

This ensures the turtles don’t feel threatened — and ensures you practice responsible and ethical tourism in Mexico.

Snorkeling with these amazing sea creatures in their natural habitat is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Akumal is one of the must see Yucatan Peninsula travel destinations, and visiting the Akumal Bay beach to swim with the turtles is something you don’t want to miss.

Contributed by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage , who recommends swimming with the turtles at Akumal Beach because it’s a once in a lifetime experience to see them in their natural habitat. 

Best places in Yucatan: Lagoons

22. sian ka’an.

Visiting Sian Ka’an near Tulum is a Mexico bucket list item for many.

As this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is not an easy place to get to, and best experienced by boat on the water, the majority of travelers opt to go with a knowledgeable travel guide on their Sian Ka’an Tour .

🤔 What is a Biosphere Reserve? According to UNESCO , biosphere reserves are learning places for sustainable development — and this one needs to be on your Tulum Itinerary !

Access to it is difficult because of the road.

Some days, you can get lucky and it’s clear, but most of the time it’s washed out and damaged, which can cause issues if you attempt to drive it without an SUV or 4X4 — and knowledge of how to change blown out tires.

is Sian Ka’an worth visiting?

It was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO (the Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) because of its outstanding natural beauty and fragile ecosystem.

At Sian Ka’an, you’ll see dolphins, manatees, turtles and many birds — all where they should be: out in the wild .

For a full article on how to get to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, head here , but in short, there are two feasible options.

The first is to take a Tulum Sian Ka’an Tour , or the second would be to stay in a Punta Allen hotel for the night, and take the tour from there.

Contributed by Claire of Claire’s Itchy Feet, who recommends Sian Ka’an because it is the best way to observe some of the most majestic marine life in Mexico in their natural habitat.

Also, the boat tours are so much fun , and a great way to see one of the most unique parts of Mexico.

Xel-Ha (pronounced shell-ha ) is located in the heart of the Maya Riviera, just south of Playa Del Carmen .

Whether you want to swim in cenotes, snorkel, zip-line through the jungle, jump off a cliff, explore caves, relax in a hammock or go tubing down a lazy river, there’s something for everyone.

One of the best things about visiting is that your entrance ticket covers everything inside the park!

That’s right — between all the things to do at Xel-Ha Park, drinks at the bars, food in the restaurants, and a rental locker — you get your money’s worth out of those Xel-Ha tickets .

This eco-park, not to be confused with Xcaret Park or Xplor Park , though they’re all owned by the same company, offers endless opportunities for outdoor, Mexico adventure travel.

If you purchase tickets through select adults-only resorts in Mexico , they include transportation and a visit to the Tulum Ruins Mayan archeological site. Opt to visit the ruins first, then cool off in the waters at Xel-Ha Park after.

If you don’t stay at a resort, you can buy Xel-Ha tickets here .

Contributed by Sarah of In Search of Sarah, who recommends Xel-Ha Park because it’s the world’s largest natural aquarium and offers something for everyone with its all-inclusive ticket price.

24. Kaan Luum Lagoon

Meaning yellow Earth in Maya, Kaan Luum Lagoon is a hidden swimming hole, located just 15 minutes south of Tulum. In fact, it’s one of the easiest Tulum day trips you can take.

Once you arrive, you’ll find a long wooden dock where you swim, relax, and sunbathe in the shallow water.

Sunscreen of any kind is prohibited, so consider a long sleeve swim shirt (rash guard) and waterproof sun hat , and bring your water bottle , as there’s no shaded areas on the dock.

At the end of the Kaan Luum dock, there is a deep cenote, almost perfectly centered in the middle of the lagoon.

While swimming in the cenote is prohibited, it’s still amazing to see the sharp contrast in the color of the water.

There aren’t many activities or amenities at Laguna Kaan Luum in Tulum , making it the perfect place to cool off and spend a leisurely afternoon.

It can get crowded with locals, so it’s best to visit on a weekday, and you’ll want to arrive early to beat the crowds. 

Visiting Kaan Luum Lagoon makes for a fun excursion from the Riviera Maya, as it takes you off the beaten path in Mexico. This is the perfect place to really enjoy the natural beauty of the Mexico Yucatan region.

Contributed by Allison of Viva La Travelista, who recommends Kaan Luum because this Mexico lagoon is a true hidden gem and Tulum off the beaten path natural attraction.

Visit Laguna Kaan Luum and more on these 10 Best Cenote Tours in Tulum to Visit All the Best Tulum Cenotes .

25. Celestun

The Celestun Biosphere Reserve is one of the most beautiful places in the Yucatan, and one of the best places for birding in Mexico and all North America.

In fact, the Celestun flamingos put this UNESCO World Heritage Center on the map of must see Yucatan travel destinations.

As a natural wetland, Celestun Mexico is a haven for birds, and many migratory species use it as a resting place along their journey.

To see these beautiful birds up close, do a Celestun tour with Guardianes de Los Manglares de Dzinitun .

This group focuses on rebuilding and preserving the mangroves so birds continue to call this area home.

This eco-tour takes visitors by canoe through the mangroves to the open lagoons, where it’s possible to see hundreds ( maybe thousands ) of flamingos feeding in the shallow waters.

🦩 How many flamingos are in Celestun Mexico?

Some sources say about 35,000 Celestun Yucatan flamingos visit this small fishing village during the height of mating season, November to February.

The best time to see them when you visit Celestun, Mexico is from December to February.

Campeche, Mexico

Campeche is the least-visited state in Yucatan, but for those visiting Celestun, you’re not far from Campeche state.

There’s colorful Campeche City , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mayan Ruins and the beaches of Campeche.

Contributed by Julien of Cultures Traveled, who recommends Celestun because it is an opportunity to see wild flamingos in their natural habitat.

If you’re traveling to Merida, you can do a Merida to Campeche City day trip. For those wanting to see a beautiful colonial city in Mexico, these are two of the nicest.

Mexico Travel FAQ

Where is the yucatan peninsula of mexico.

Wondering, Where is Yucatan Peninsula Mexico? For a visual, check out the Yucatan map above, but here’s the context you’ll need to better understand the area:

The Yucatan Peninsula is located in southeastern Mexico. It is surrounded by water on three sides: the Gulf of Mexico to the north and west, and Caribbean Sea to the east. South of the Yucatan, you’ll be in Central America.

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula consists of three states: Yucatan state, Campeche state and the state of Quintana Roo. This is the most-visited of the three states, while Campeche is the least-visited state in Yucatan.

The major cities in Yucatan Mexico include Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Valladolid and Merida Mx, which is the capital city of Yucatan State.

Is Mexico safe for travel?

Let’s start this FAQ with the most commonly asked Mexico travel question: Is Mexico safe for travel? Is Yucatan safe for travel? Is Mexico safe for tourists?

The short answer to all three questions is: Yes — for the majority of travelers, Mexico is safe.

50 Essential Tips for Mexico Travel from a Long-Term Resident

Longer answer: Safety is a tricky subject.

One, safety is a feeling — not a fact . Two, people consider themselves “safe” when nothing bad happens, and “unsafe” only when something bad does.

However, as a general rule, the Yucatan Peninsula is considered quite safe .

As no place on Earth is 100% safe, you’ll want to follow the general safety guidelines below; the same as you would when traveling anywhere.

There are some general and Mexico travel safety tips below in the accordion menus that will explain how, and this Mexico travel podcast about safety .

Want an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times? Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.

If Mexico travel safety is the thing holding you back from your Merida trip, get a FREE quote from the two companies listed below — two of the biggest names in travel insurance. These travel insurance companies do have Covid coverage, but always double check your policy before purchasing.

• Safety Wing : Perfect for general travel coverage, and digital nomad who travel for extended periods of time.
• World Nomads : Perfect for those who want to do adventurous activities while traveling.

• Don’t walk home alone at night if you can help it; take an Uber.
• Always listen to your intuition because your intuition is always right.
• If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place immediately. If you feel you’re in danger, don’t worry about making a kind, nice, or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away ASAP.
• Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket.
• Learn some basic Spanish. If you can’t learn it, save this infographic as an image on your phone so you have something to use even if you’re off-WiFi.
• Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe/bar neighbor to watch your things.
• Speaking of bar neighbors, don’t ever accept drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended near someone you don’t know.
• Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
• Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to make a small transaction like for street tacos 🌮

Make sure you enroll in the FREE   STEP Program  before your trip. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc. STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad.

No — U.S passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Mexico from the U.S. This is another reason why Mexico is one of the best travel destinations from the U.S.

When you arrive in Mexico and go through the Immigration line, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card . This is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to Immigration at the airport when you leave the country. 

There is no charge for the FMM, but if you lose yours, there is a charge of about $600 pesos ($30USD) to replace it. You’d also need to get to the airport about an extra hour earlier than you’d normally have to in order to do the lost visa paperwork… the bottom line: Don’t lose your FMM!

If you stick to the most popular places in Yucatan, the on the beaten path places — then no, you can get by with just English. If you’re heading to any pueblos (small towns), however, there will be little English spoken.

Either way, it is always good manners to know at least some basic Spanish when you visit Mexico. Check out Episode 13 of the podcast as travel blogger Elizabeth talks about how she learned 8 languages, and gives great tips for how to learn language basics in easy, fun ways.

If learning Spanish isn’t in the cards for you, #NoJudgement! Pin and/or save the infographic above on your phone so you’ll always have the words and phrases you need, even if you’re off-WiFi.

Is it safe to drive in Mexico and Yucatan?

With 25 amazing places highlighted in this article, and still many more to visit in this part of Mexico, a Yucatan road trip is definitely the way to go.

For this, you’ll need a Mexico car rental from a company like Discover Cars, which I recommend and personally use. ▶︎ BOOK WITH DISCOVER CARS!

Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know with 10 Useful Tips for Driving in Mexico

While the Yucatan Peninsula is considered quite safe, and driving in Yucatan is also known to be safe, there is one obvious caveat here: You’ll be driving in a foreign country.

Since you will be driving in another country, you should take the time to familiarize yourself with Mexico’s driving laws, or ask the agent at your car rental company for Mexico driving tips and advice.

🚙💨 Yucatan Travel Tip: When renting, be sure to opt for full coverage insurance, as your United States or Canadian car insurance company does not cover you in Mexico.

What’s the best time to visit Yucatan?

Weather-wise, November-March is the best time to do your Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico travel. Located in the tropics, Yucatan weather is hot year-round; however, there’s much less humidity during these cooler months.

Yucatan Peninsula Weather

Keep in mind that in the tropics, it will likely rain for a few hours each day from April-October — and don’t forget June 1-November 30 is Hurricane Season.

While the rains tend to end by mid-October, there’s still a chance of rain, and technically even hurricanes, through the end of November .

For those who don’t mind risking the rains, April-October is the off-season in Mexico, so you’ll find a lot of great travel deals.

📆 Yucatan Travel Tip s

December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico, and spring breakers start coming in March. If you like nice weather and not-so-crowded beaches — January and February are the best months to visit Mexico.

What do I include on my packing list for Mexico?

The Yucatan Peninsula has a tropical climate.

As you can see in the average yearly weather chart above, this part of Mexico is hot (and humid 😥) for most of the year, so definitely pack a Water-To-Go Bottle to stay hydrated — and filter your water to help prevent getting sick in Mexico .

Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download

Mosquitoes can also be an issue, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray , and bring reef-safe sunscreen so you practice responsible tourism in Mexico.

Particularly in spring, summer and fall, you’ll also want an anti-frizz hair product .

👗 Not sure what to wear in Mexico? Head here for some Yucatan outfit inspo !

As far as how to dress, think flowy, tropical, breathable, cotton, and light-colored clothing, and anything that doesn’t show sweat.

Besides all your summer-wear, you may use a light cardigan at night, but the Yucatan is a place for sundresses, sun hats, sunglasses and bathing suits.

🧳 FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Need a more detailed Mexico packing guide? Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico in this article .

It covers Mexico beach packing and Mexico city packing. This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.

How do I get to the Yucatan Peninsula?

As you see in the Yucatan Peninsula map at the top of this article, this part of Mexico covers a large geographical area. In fact, there are three Mexican states in the peninsula — Quintana Roo, Campeche and Yucatan.

Depending on where you’re headed, here’s the best Yucatan airport to use:

✈️ Cancun & Quintana Roo State

The easiest airport for accessing most of the Yucatan Peninsula is Cancun International Airport (code: CUN) because there are direct flights to Cancun from so many places.

From Cancun, you can rent a car , arrange for a private airport transfer , join others in shared transport , or take an ADO bus.

✈️ Merida, Valladolid & Campeche

There is an airport in Mérida called Merida International Airport (code: MID), which has direct flights from a few U.S. cities, like Miami and Houston.

If you aren’t coming from either of those, there are plenty of connecting flights through the Mexico City or Guadalajara International Airports.

✈️ Cozumel Island

Cozumel International Airport (code: CZM) is the best option for those headed to Cozumel to enjoy some of the best diving in Mexico.

🏝 Need more information about all the best things to do in Cozumel? Check out this podcast with travel blogger Retha about all things Cozumel travel.

✈️ Bacalar Lagoon & Chetumal

Located all the way south in the Yucatan Peninsula, near the border of Belize, there’s Chetumal International Airport (code: CTM).

If you’re traveling to Bacalar Lagoon , AKA “the Maldives of Mexico,” Mahahual or Chetumal, this airport is an option — though many just drive down from Cancun .

✈️ Find Flights to Yucatan

Final Thoughts on Visiting Yucatan Mexico

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is one of the most popular Mexico travel destinations. The entire area is considered safe for travel and road trips.

🚗💨 Renting a car in Mexico? Head here to book your Mexico car rental — having a car is the easiest way to go on Yucatan adventures!

In fact, since it covers about 1,000 miles, a Yucatan road trip is one of the best ways to see all the on- and off-the-beaten path places in one trip.

While visiting Yucatan, don’t be afraid to check out the lesser visited places to see the things few visitors do at all the hidden gems Yucatan Peninsula has.

Even if a road trip isn’t the plan for your next Yucatan trip, you’ll still enjoy all the well known Mayan Ruins, beach towns, and more.

Whether you’re road tripping in Yucatan, or headed to a beachfront resort to kick back with a margarita in hand, this part of Mexico has something for everyone.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

45 Best Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula: A Local’s Guide

There are lots of incredible things to do in the Yucatan peninsula that will keep you occupied for days on end. From gorgeous Caribbean beaches that boast soft, powdery white sands and translucent turquoise waters, to ancient Mayan cities, quaint colonial towns, and unique gastronomy, this region has something for everyone. 

The Yucatan peninsula is a tri-state area in south-eastern Mexico made up of the states of the Yucatan, Campeche, and Quintana Roo. The Riviera Maya region is incredibly popular with tourists, but for the most part, the wider Yucatan remains largely untapped. 

This article has been written by a British Travel Writer that has been living in the Yucatan capital of Merida for the last two years. In that time, I have made it my priority to see as much of my new home as is physically possible and travel to different places in the area every weekend. 

Only now am I starting to feel that I have seen a lot of what the area has to offer, so rest assured, you won’t be struggling for things to do during your one or two-week vacation. You are in good hands here 😉 

This article has not been written by someone who simply passed through once, and a lot of the recommendations you will find here are not mentioned in any other travel guides. 

Table of Contents

45 Best Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula in 2023 

The Yucatan is one of the safest places to travel in Mexico, as well as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. People often comment that culturally, the Yucatan feels very different from other parts of Mexico – almost to the extent that it feels like traveling to a different country entirely.

This makes sense as the Yucatan was an independent country for a period of time. Culturally, the Yucatan feels different because most of the people that occupy this region are of Mayan descent. 

Many Yucatan residents speak Mayan and the culture, cuisine, and customs are very different to those in other states. The suggestions of the best things to do in the Yucatan detailed below range from must-see sights, to off-the-beaten-path Yucatan highlights that few people are aware exist. 

Drive along the Ruta Esmerelda 

The beaches around Cancun, Tulum, and the wider Riviera Maya region may be some of the most popular among tourists, but they pale in comparison to some of the coastal areas along the Northern Yucatan. The Ruta Esmerelda is a scenic route that starts in Chuburna Puerto and runs all the way to the beach towns of San Crisanto and Dzilam de Bravo. 

Yucatan beaches are characterized by their soft, powdery white sand and translucent emerald waters that would rival those in the Caribbean. This area, at least for now, is largely undeveloped so you can easily find entire stretches of coastline and hidden coves to yourself – especially in the low season. 

San Crisanto, a pristine tropical beach surrounded by coconut groves, is worth adding to your radar. So too is San Bruno, which is home to the upscale Kokomo beach club and Tulum-inspired Casa Ku resort. 

Visit the ancient city of Dzibilchaltun

Dzibilchaltun , meaning ¨writing on flat stones¨ is an ancient Mayan city that sits just 16km north of the Yucatan capital of Merida. The settlement dates back to 500 BC and was once home to more than 25,000 people. 

If you are not a massive fan of archeological sites, it can feel like all of the various Mayan cities sort of blend together after a while. Dzibilchaltun is interesting because of a temple structure known as ¨the Temple of the Seven Dolls¨.

The structure is believed to have been built in honor of Yum Kax, the Mayan god of corn. When archeologists excavated the site, they found seven crudely-made clay dolls with exaggerated genitalia that were believed to have been used in spiritual rituals.

Today, the dolls are stored inside the on-site Dzibilchaltun museum. Twice a year, you can catch the spring/autumn equinox at Dzibilchaltun. 

At sunrise on these specific dates, hundreds of locals and tourists head from Merida to the site. The sun shines through the doorway of the Temple of the Dolls and this would indicate to the Mayans that it was time to start planting or harvesting their produce.

Stay in a converted luxury hacienda 

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Yucatan was one of the richest regions in the world! This was largely due to the local henequen industry. 

The natural fiber was harvested and shipped across the globe to make hammocks, baskets, and other course textiles. As the industry thrived, the Spanish built haciendas to maximize production and profits.

These grand homesteads doubled as spacious homes and agricultural premises used for growing henequen, tending livestock, and mining other nearby resources. Sadly, with the introduction of synthetic fibers, the demand for henequen gradually declined in the 20th century and many haciendas were eventually abandoned.

Fortunately, a number of properties have been purchased and converted into upscale restaurants and hotels in recent years. These make great places to stay if you want to treat yourself for a day or two during your Yucatan itinerary. 

If your budget doesn’t allow you to stay in a hacienda, you can consider stopping by for breakfast or dinner. The hacienda Santa Cruz is a gorgeous property close to the town of Dzununcán where live musicians and mariachi perform to delighted visitors over breakfast. 

Hacienda Sacnicte close to Izamal is perhaps one of the most upscale of the renovated Yucatan hacienda hotels. The property was purchased and restored by Italian designers and seamlessly blends local tradition with modern design. 

The property retains its original features and charm, while the rooms have been decorated with contemporary European artwork, eccentric sculptures and statues, and plush modern furnishings. 

Search for abandoned haciendas 

While a number of haciendas have been purchased and restored to their former glory, many more have not been so fortunate. As you drive around the Yucatan, you will pass by numerous abandoned haciendas. 

Some have been reclaimed by the jungle and have fallen into disrepair. Others are somewhat frozen in time, derelict, with old furniture still scattered throughout the ruined rooms. 

In the Merida area, there are a couple of interesting properties worth noting in case you happen to pass by them. The Hacienda Cancabchen Casares in Cholul is a spooky spot that is said to be haunted. 

According to local legend, the hacienda owner was abusive towards his employees until one day they eventually got tired of it and killed him. In Maxcanú, you can see what remains of the 16th-century hacienda San José Chactún and in nearby Chan Chocholá, you can find the impressive ex-hacienda Santa Eduviges whose turrets resemble a medieval castle.  

Travel back in time to the ancient city of Aké 

Aké meaning ¨place of the reeds¨ is a seldom-visited Mayan archeological site east of Merida and close to the town of Tixkokob. Settlers first arrived in the city around 2,300 years ago, and Aké thrived between 600 and 1200 AD. 

Like many Mayan cities, it was eventually abandoned around 1450 AD. The structures here are built in a style known as ¨Megalithic¨ and use huge blocks of stone. However, there are some buildings that exhibit the Puuc style of architecture. 

Among the various pyramids and shrines, one of the most notable structures here is the ¨pyramid of the columns¨ which once held up the biggest roof in the Mayan world. The sacbes (white stone Mayan roads) that veer off from the site once connected it to Izamal, which Aké is believed to have had a dependency on. 

One fascinating thing about visiting Aké is that the village’s hacienda is still operational. It is one of the only places in the Yucatan that is still involved in henequen production and if you poke your head through one of the windows near the hacienda, you will see all of the old machinery still in use. 

Many of Ake’s 300-strong population depend on this hacienda for work. 

Explore an eerie abandoned ghost town 

Misnebalam is an eerie pueblo fantasma (ghost town) that awaits just off the road between Merida and Progreso. There were once 170 people living here and working in the henequen industry. 

However, over the past century, numerous paranormal occurrences and sightings were reported and Misnebalam residents gradually moved away. The final inhabitants left in 2005 and the area has been abandoned ever since. 

Visiting Misnebalam today means having the chance to explore a grand old hacienda with a large pool and gardens that lie in ruins, an overgrown graveyard, roads to nowhere, and a roofless church. 

There have been reported sightings of the former hacienda owner seen wandering the grounds of his property, a ghostly monk, and the ghost of a young boy known as Juliancito. Producers of various supernatural shows like ¨Most Haunted¨ have filmed documentaries in Misnebalam and if you dare, you can camp out overnight to see if you spot anything strange. 

By day, kids from local villages come here to play a game of ¨gotcha¨ (paintballing) among the ruined structures. If you prefer not to come alone, you can do an ATV tour of Misnebalam from Progreso. 

Sample famous Yucatan honey at the pueblo magico of Mani

There are four pueblo magicos in the Yucatan state . One of the least visited is a city called Mani (meaning peanut in Mayan) which sits in the central part of the state, some 69km from Merida.

Pueblo magicos are cities, towns, and villages that have been recognized by the Mexican tourism board for offering a particularly special culture, history, or gastronomy. Generally speaking, when somewhere has been recognized as a ¨pueblo magico¨ it is a good indicator that it is a worthwhile place to visit. 

While the other pueblo magicos in the area get a trickle of tourists, Mani is largely overlooked. The city is famous for its meliponarios (beekeepers). 

In the Yucatan, beekeepers tend to a stingless melipona bee that is native to this part of Mexico and is known locally as Xunan kab. The honey has a different taste and runnier consistency than European/American honey and the ancient Maya believed that it had magical healing properties! 

At Mani meliponarios like U Naajil Yuum K’iin, you can see how the bees are tended to and buy some local honey, which makes a great souvenir of your trip to Mexico. In the city center, you can also admire the 1549 Franciscan convent of San Miguel Archangel and the Mani cenote. 

The local cenote has a dark place in local history. It was here where the Franciscan Friar Diego de Landa ordered the burning and destruction of Mayan books and manuscripts during the Spanish colonization. 

Try the locally famous huevos motulenos at Motul 

Huevos motuleños is one of the most famous breakfast dishes that you will find in the Yucatan. You can try it in various cafes and restaurants across the peninsula, but it hails from the city of Motul and if you are a true foodie traveler, this is where you will want to try it. 

Different establishments place their own unique spin on the dish. But the traditional way to make it is by serving fried eggs on a fried tortilla slathered in frijoles (beans) and then lathering them in tomato sauce, peas, ham, a dash of hot sauce, and plantains. 

For the best of the best huevos motuleños, you should head to Doña Evelia restaurant in the Mercado Municipal 20 de Noviembre in Motul. At weekends, people are often queuing out the door to sample these famous eggs but they are worth waiting for.

Wash it all down with a steaming hot cafe de olla – Mexican coffee prepared with cinnamon and piloncillo. The marketplace is a fun environment to dine in too – there are rarely any Western tourists here and local entertainers perform Yucatecan jarana dances and sing for tips as you dine. 

If you happen to be traveling to the Yucatan in July, you can catch the annual huevos motuleños festival. This unique event sees live performers take to the stage, as local chefs and restauranteurs compete to see who can make the very best huevos motuleños.

See Chichen Itza with your own eyes 

The ruins of Chichen Itza need no introduction. The ancient Mayan city is not only one of the most famous tourist attractions in the Yucatan, it is one of the most famous places in all of Mexico. 

The ruins were designated as a UNESCO-protected world heritage site back in 1988 and in 2007, Chichen Itza was voted one of the ¨new¨ seven wonders of the world. The main temple that you see in Chichen Itza is the Temple of Kukulkan but the site is actually far larger than many people realize and spans an area of over 4 square miles. 

Archeologists still debate about precisely when the city was founded but it is believed to be around 1,500 years old and date back to around 400AD. In its heyday, more than 35,000 people called the city their home. 

There are more than 26 notable structures in Chichen Itza. Some of the most interesting ones to look out for are the Tzompantli – a stone platform decorated with carved skulls that the Mayans would place the severed heads of their enemies on to scare potential traitors and other tribes.

The sacred cenote where people would be sacrificed, and jewels and valuables were thrown into the water as gifts to Xibalba (the Mayan underworld). Meanwhile, La Iglesia (¨the church¨) is also interesting because its doors and windows are decorated with masks depicting the rain god Chaac. 

Relax at Playa Las Dunas, Chuburna 

Playa Las Dunas is a paradisical, lesser-known beach that awaits about an hour away from Merida, close to the coastal village of Chuburna. Very few people are even aware of the beach’s existence or take the time to venture here. 

The beach offers miles upon miles of soft, white powdery sands that border translucent aquamarine waters and rolling dunes. The beach is never crowded; Even at weekends, you can easily find a peaceful stretch to yourself. 

Wild sea turtles call the warm waters here their home, and you will often see pelicans, flamingos and other wildlife flying overhead or diving for fish. En route to the beach, you will pass a lot of street vendors selling desserts prepared with fresh coconut. Pay de coco (coconut pie) and coco helado (coconut ice cream) are personal favorites.

Chill out by the beach in El Cuyo 

El Cuyo is a charming beach town that awaits at the far northeastern tip of the Yucatan state. It is not the easiest place to get to – El Cuyo is about 3.5 hours drive from Merida and 2.5 hours from Cancun respectively. 

But for now, at least, El Cuyo has managed to avoid a lot of the over-tourism and development that has affected the nearby Riviera Maya. 

You can think of the little beach town as what Tulum was like some 15-20 years ago. For the time being, it is little more than a handful of hotels and restaurants scattered along a pristine stretch of coastline. 

The natural bay that El Cuyo sits in means that the beach is often pretty windy and the area has quickly become a favorite destination for kitesurfers – many of whom can be credited for helping develop El Cuyo. The main draw of coming to El Cuyo is having the opportunity to relax and detach from the stresses of modern life. 

Waking up to see every sunrise and sunset is a must, and the sunrises here are some of the most beautiful over the Gulf of Mexico. If you are interested in kite surfing, it is possible to rent equipment or take lessons – whatever your age or experience level. 

A visit to El Cuyo can also be tied in with a trip to nearby Rio Lagartos and the lakes of Las Coloradas. 

Fall in love with the colonial capital of Merida 

The colorful colonial city of Merida is the capital of the Yucatan state and a highlight of visiting the Yucatan peninsula. Merida dates back to 1542 when it was founded by the Spanish Colonizer Francisco de Montejo y Leon. 

During the henequen boom of the 18th and 19th centuries, Merida was one of the richest cities in the world, and many grand, neoclassical mansions from this era still stand. 

(Many have now been converted into ultra-luxurious hotels, restaurants, boutique stores, and guesthouses that retain the original designs). The cobbled streets and promenades of Merida are lined with pastel-colored houses that are a photographer’s dream.  

(In particular, stop by Calle 58 and Avenida Del Deportista.) Even just one day in Merida is enough to get a feel for the city but the Yucatan capital makes a great place to base yourself during your trip and you can take day trips out from here.

Be sure to stroll down the Paseo de Montejo and check out the Monumento a la Patria – a giant carved indigenous sculpture by the Colombian artist Rómulo Rozo that depicts the history of Mexico through the centuries. 

The Mayan World Museum (C. 60 299 E, Unidad Revolución) contains interesting Mayan sculptures and artifacts collected from various places across the Yucatan peninsula, while the Merida paranormal museum is a unique exhibition containing items that are said to be ¨cursed¨ or ¨possessed¨. 

Go off the beaten path to the forgotten ruins of Oxkintok 

Oxkintok is about as off the beaten path as you can get in the Yucatan peninsula. The sunbleached remains of this Ancient Mayan city await 70km south of Merida near the town of Maxcanu and close to the border with Campeche state. 

The name ¨Oxkintok¨ is believed to mean ¨three flint suns¨ in Ancient Mayan, and this city had important commercial and political relationships with the cities along the Ruta Puuc (Uxmal, Labna, etc). Oxkintok is believed to have been occupied from 500–300 B.C. to around A.D. 1200–1450. 

The vast site deserves at least 2-3 hours of your time and if you can speak Spanish, you can hire a local guide at the entrance for around 200-300 pesos. 

One of the most mysterious and unusual buildings here is a labyrinth known as ¨Satunsat¨. It is not common to see labyrinths in Mayan cities and only two others have been documented in Mexico.

The labyrinth is unfortunately closed to the public (perhaps to stop tourists from getting lost inside?). However, interestingly it is spread over three floors which are believed to represent the earth, the underworld, and the celestial level.  

There are a couple of well-preserved temples that you can climb to enjoy views over the Yucatan jungle canopy and take great photos from high above the ancient city. The Palacio del Diablo is an interesting structure because its purpose is unknown but its entrance is guarded by a peculiar skeleton sculpture. 

Learn about Mayan trading culture at Xcambo ruins 

The Mayan city of Xcambo can be found close to the pink lake of Laguna Rosada and the coastal village of Telchac Puerto. The name ¨Xcambo¨ means ¨the place where bartering is done¨ which is a fitting title since this was once an extremely important commercial trading post. 

The Mayan people that lived here would mine salt from the nearby salt lakes and then trade it with other cities within the peninsula. Most of the structures here have been built in the Peten archeological style, similar to Mayan cities in neighboring Guatemala.  

Unfortunately, little is known about Xcambo or its rulers as the city was only excavated over the past couple of decades and didn’t open to the general public until 2021. 

At the center of the site, you will find a ramshackle catholic church with a little cross and a sculpture of Jesus on its roof. This was built by the local people back in the 1950s before INAH declared Xcambo an important archeological site. 

They quarried stones from the Mayan structures to build the church. According to a local legend, an apparition of the Virgin Mary once appeared here. 

Sample authentic Yucatecan cuisine 

When you talk about dishes that you must try in Mexico , tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and fajitas are the first things to spring into most people’s minds. However, Mexican cuisine is far more diverse than most people realize, with different regions and states offering their own distinctive gastronomy. 

Yucatecan food is special because many of the regional dishes follow recipes invented by the Ancient Mayan, and often, the same traditional cooking methods are still used all these centuries later. You won’t be short of opportunities to try the local cuisine in the Yucatan as ¨comida Yucateca¨ is the default offering at most restaurants and cucina economicas.  

Be sure to try cochinita pibil – slow-cooked pork that is marinated with achiote and orange rind and cooked in an underground oven known as a pib. Papadzules are a popular Yucatan street food dish that is made by rolling steamed eggs in fresh tortillas and slathering them in a delicious pumpkin seed sauce and tomato salsa. 

There are some spectacular restaurants in Merida where you can try the best regional food.  In particular, you should stop by Wayan´E for tortas and tacos, Habaneros for cooked Yucatecan delicacies, and Kuuk for elevated Yucatan cuisine. 

Visit Mayapan, the last great Mayan city 

The city of Mayapan , like so many other Mayan cities in Mexico on this list, is frequently overlooked by most people that travel to the Yucatan. This is a shame because this is one of the most important Mayan archeological sites in the country. 

Mayapan dates back to around 1000 AD and it is particularly interesting because King Kukulkan II and his people relocated here after the downfall of Chichen Itza. Many of the buildings that you see at Mayapan are replicas of structures at Chichen Itza, and indeed the main pyramid at Mayapan is considered an inferior replica of the temple of Kukulkan at Chichen Itza. 

After King Kukulkan II died, feuds broke out between the different groups that occupied Mayapan, and the city was eventually abandoned. 

Swim in the freshwater Homun cenotes 

The Yucatan peninsula is famous for its cenotes. These are freshwater sinkholes that were formed when the Chicxulub meteor smashed into the earth 65 million years ago and weakened the surface of the ground in Southeastern Mexico. 

There are more than 7,5000 cenotes in the Yucatan and this is the only part of the country where they are found (aside from one or two in Veracruz and Chiapas state ). Sure, there are cenotes that are famous on social media, but some of the most gorgeous ones in the Yucatan can be found in and around the little village of Homun. 

Homun has what is called a ring of cenotes (¨anillo de los cenotes¨). There are more than 20 cenotes in and around the village. 

For 200 pesos, you can hire a local tuk-tuk driver and guide to take you to some of the best cenotes in the area. Some are ¨closed¨ and set inside caves with dramatic stalagmite and stalactite formations. Others are open, surrounded by jungle. The Santa Barbara cenotes, Cenote Cholul, and Cenote Bal Mil are particularly gorgeous.

Stop for homemade ice cream along the Merida – Izamal Carretera 

There are few better ways to cool down on a hot, sticky, humid day in the Yucatan peninsula than with a freezing cold pot of homemade nieve (ice cream). You will find plenty of La Michoacana ice cream shops in all of the cities, towns, and villages here, but for something particularly special, look out for an old Mayan man and his daughter selling homemade ice cream along the Merida – Izamel carretera. 

He makes huge tanks of fresh ice cream each morning. This is often vanilla and strawberry ice cream with real fruit pieces, but sometimes he makes uniquely Yucatecan flavors like elote (sweet corn) ice cream which sounds obscure but is absolutely delicious. 

The vendor advertises his treats with a hand-painted sign on a giant boulder at the side of the road that reads ¨helado¨ and he stands beneath a thatched palapa hut. There are usually lots of Yucatecans lining up to order ice cream, with their cars parked up at the side of the road. 

Check out an out-of-place European castle

34km north of Izamal, you will find a little hamlet called Chenche de las Torres. Like Izamal, all of the houses and structures here have been painted in the same uniform shade of bright yellow, yet there are absolutely no tourists here whatsoever. 

While the dirt roads and narrow streets of this tiny settlement are great places to take photos of local life in the Yucatan peninsula, the highlight of this area is an imposing, out-of-place European castle. 

Hacienda Chenche de las Torres was built in the 18th century by Don Alvaro Peón de Regil and Doña Joaquina Peón Castellanos, Counts of Miraflores. The grandiose home, with its turrets, emblems, and sprawling gardens is more reminiscent of a castle in Europe than something you would expect to find in the rural Yucatan – although perhaps the Counts of Miraflores felt nostalgic for their homeland. 

The house is often rented out for celebrations, birthdays, and quinceaneras. If you happen to pass through the area, you can usually take a tour of the grounds for around 100 pesos. (Circa $5 USD). 

Drive along the Ruta Puuc 

The Ruta Puuc is a 30km long driving route in the southern part of the Yucatan state that leads you past a collection of ancient Mayan ruins that are known for their distinctive Puuc style of architecture. The route starts at the UNESCO-protected site of Uxmal and then takes you onwards to Labna, Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, and the Loltun Caves. 

If you are short on time, you can explore the ruins in this area in a day. However, if you have a particular interest in Mayan history, you can spend a couple of days exploring the various towns, villages, and ruins along the route. 

Kabah, Labna, and Sayil boast several interesting structures and palaces whose facades are decorated with hundreds upon hundreds of masks of the long-nosed rain god Chaac. Labna is famous for its intricately-designed ceremonial archway, while Sayil is home to an interesting, well-endowed statue of a Mayan god of fertility. 

If you want to stay overnight in the area, you can opt to stay at one of the haciendas or hotels near Uxmal, or in the villages of Santa Elena or Sacalum. 

See the obscure mummy museum in Santa Elena 

While you are exploring the fascinating Puuc route, it is worth making a brief stop in the charming little village of Santa Elena. Local legends state that the entire settlement was built in just one night and there are a couple of interesting Yucatan attractions that are well worth checking out while you are here. 

The burgundy church of Santa Elena awaits up a flight of stairs a short distance from the central square (Zocalo), surrounded by papel picado flags that flutter in the wind. The benches of the zocalo act as a rendevous-point for local old-timers to catch up with their friends and neighbors and there are a couple of cute statues here of cowboy-wearing Mexican men and women in traditional dress. 

A small street food market offers the opportunity to fill up on yummy light bites like tacos and marquesitas, while the colorful La Michoacana ice cream store sells some of the best strawberries and cream ice cream you will ever taste. Still, the most fascinating attraction of Santa Elena is the somewhat macabre Santa Elena mummies. 

When renovation work took place on the church, 12 tiny coffins were found which turned out to be the bodies of 12 infants that for whatever reason, had not decomposed. Today, they are on display in the small, obscure Santa Elena museum. 

Visit the yellow city of Izamal 

The ¨yellow city¨ of Izamal is one of four pueblo magicos in the Yucatan state and somewhere that is quickly establishing itself as a popular day trip destination from Merida and Cancun. You might have seen photos and reels of the city on Instagram.

All of the buildings here have been painted in the same shade of bright yellow, likely in honor of the Mayan Sun God Kinich Kakmó. A pyramid dedicated to this deity can be found in the center of the town and it is free to visit and climb.

This is one of the only surviving pyramids in the Yucatan peninsula as the majority were torn down and destroyed by the Spanish colonizers. Nearby, you will find a restaurant that also goes by the name ¨Kinich¨ which is widely regarded as one of the best places to eat in southeastern Mexico. 

Here, you can try local classics like relleno negro and cochinita pibil, and wash it all down with a refreshing mezcal cocktail. Yum! 

The Convento de San Antonio de Padua (1561) sits on a hilltop in the center of town and is one of the oldest convents in North America. 

It still functions today, and depending on the time you stop by, you might see the resident nuns pottering around the garden or eating their lunch outside. 

Explore the jungle ruins of Chacchoben 

One of the best Mayan cities that you can visit in the Yucatan peninsula is the city of Chacchoben (Cha – cho – ben) in the southernmost part of Quintana Roo. Even if you have traveled to a bunch of Mayan ruins already, Chacchoben is unique because the pyramids and structures are nestled deep in the jungle. 

Many temples have become overgrown and are covered with moss, while 100-foot palm trees tower overhead, covering the jungle canopy so that you can barely see the sky. If you get here early in the morning before the tour buses arrive, you may find that you have the ruins largely to yourself and you might even be able to spot some of the howler monkeys, spider monkeys, foxes, and pecarries that call Chacchoben their home. 

Chacchoben means “the place of red corn” in Mayan and is believed to date back to 200 BC. It was not discovered until the 1940s when a local man saw the top of a pyramid poking out above the ground, loved the space, and decided to build his home amongst them. 

An American Archeologist eventually reported the site to INAH in 1972, but Chacchoben wasn’t opened to the public until 2002. 

Visit Progreso, the most popular beach town near Merida 

Progreso is the closest beach town to the city of Merida and is a popular place for locals, expats, and travelers to head to for the day when they are seeking some much-needed R&R by the sea. Progreso is your quintessential Mexican beach town and at weekends, the shores of the beach here are filled with families having picnics and dining at local restaurants. 

Most of the beachfront bars and taverns here let you rent a sunbed and an umbrella for the entire day provided you spend a few dollars in their establishments. Marymar Beach Club and Silcer beach club are also great choices if you are looking for something a little more upscale. 

It is pleasant to stroll along the waterfront Malecon, stopping here and there for drinks, a fresh coconut, or meringue , especially in the evenings as the sun sets. 

Spend a few days in the Mexican Caribbean at Mahahual 

If you want all the beauty of the Mexican Caribbean without the crowds of the Riviera Maya, you should consider traveling south through Quintana Roo to the Costa Maya and the little beach town of Mahahual. 

This little fishing village is home to just over 2,600 people and although a steady stream of tourists have started visiting the area, it is still relatively quiet and low-key compared to other coastal areas in Quintana Roo. 

A trip here is more about relaxing and unwinding rather than sightseeing and checking things off a to-do list. Reserve a stay in one of the waterfront hotels so that you can wake up and head street to the beach each morning. 

The Mahahual promenade is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants serving fresh seafood dishes sourced from the nearby waters, and delicious cuisines from all over the world. From the central Mahahual beach, you can also walk or rent a bike and cycle to the beaches of La Bamba and Maya Chan. 

Kayak across the multicolored lagoon of Lake Bacalar 

Lake Bacalar is a long, narrow lake in the southern part of Quintana Roo, close to the border with Belize. It is affectionately referred to as the ¨ seven-color lagoon¨ because the waters here shimmer in different shades of green, blue, and turquoise. 

Bacalar is the second-largest freshwater lake in Mexico and a great place to treat yourself to a relaxing weekend break. As is to be expected with a lake town, there are a ton of water-based activities that you can enjoy here – from kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding to taking a guided boat trip across the lagoon. 

There are a couple of notable sites to look out for as you make your way around town. The Fort of San Felipe is what remains of an old defensive structure that was used to defend the town’s residents from English pirates centuries ago, while an abandoned hotel complex at the northern point of the lake was an ultra-luxurious property designed to accommodate the mega-rich, but was never allowed to open as its founder was arrested for having links to organized crime groups. 

Browse the markets of Muna 

Muna, meaning ¨place of soft water¨ in Mayan, is a small city in central Yucatan that is home to just over 11,000 residents. There aren’t a heap of things to do here, but you may have to change buses here en route to/from Uxmal from Merida, or you may have time to stop for a traditional dinner while exploring the Ruta Puuc. 

The Muna Zocalo is flanked by the impressive burgundy 16th-century Virgin of the Assumption church and the nearby Mercado Municipal de Muna is a charming marketplace whose walls and ceilings are decorated with colorful murals depicting scenes of life in the Yucatan peninsula. 

If you are renting a car in Mexico , you can drive to the Muna lookout point on the outskirts of town. Here, locals have built a higgledy-piggledy wooden viewing platform which you can climb for a few pesos and glance across the jungle canopy to see the pyramids of Uxmal in the distance. 

Treat yourself to an indulgent stay at the Telchac Puerto Marina 

Telchac Puerto is a beach town along the Yucatan’s Ruta Esmerelda, just an hour away from Merida. It doesn’t quite have the beauty of San Bruno or San Crisanto, but if you have plenty of time to spend in the Yucatan peninsula, it’s a nice alternative place to visit. 

The town itself is home to a long sandy beach bordered by a waterfront Malecon where couples come to take scenic strolls at night and street vendors sell micheladas in every flavor imaginable, served in obscure cups. 

Arguably the best place to stay or stop for lunch is the Hotel Marina Kinuh, whose excellent in-house restaurant serves sumptuous dishes from across Mexico, and where guests can take a golf caddy to a private section of a pristine secluded beach. A lot of yacht owners moor their boats at the marina here while exploring the Yucatan peninsula, and the property is effortlessly elegant without any air of pretension.  

Nearby, you will also find the Sayachaltun Eco Reserve. The reserve is a new project by a collective of 26 fishermen from Telchac Puerto, who want to show visitors the natural beauty of the region. 

Here, you can organize kayaking and boat tours through the mangroves and your local guide will point out all of the wildlife that calls the reserve home. 

Go scuba diving off the coast of Cozumel

Cozumel is a gorgeous island in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Playa Del Carmen, Akumal, and the state of Quintana Roo. The ferry to get here takes just 45 minutes each way, and Cozumel is well worth the effort to get to. 

There are dozens of breathtaking beaches on the island and if you venture a little ways away from the main towns and resort areas, you can find some secluded spots that feel like your very own desert island getaway. Head to the eastern part of the island if you are looking for something peaceful away from the crowds. 

Punta Morena, El Mirador, Playa de San Martin, and Playa Chen Rio are gorgeous spots. Cozumel also offers the opportunity to dive or snorkel in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

This is the second-largest reef in the world. (Second only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia) and you can organize dive lessons and tours to see coral reefs, colorful fish, rays, and turtles. 

See flamingoes in their natural habitat at Celestun 

The coastal town of Celestun , in the western part of the Yucatan, is home to the protected Ría Celestún biosphere where thousands of pink flamingos, crocodiles, and birds live within the rivers and mangroves. The reserve was inscribed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2004 and is a beautiful place to visit during your time in the Yucatan – even if you don’t consider yourself someone who is massively interested in birdwatching. 

When you arrive at the reserve, you can rent a boat for 1800 pesos (circa $107 US dollars). The boat accommodates 8-9 people so if there are just a few of you, you can wait until other travelers arrive and the boat is full. 

(There are always plenty of tourists here so it isn’t difficult to find other people to share your trip with). The American flamingoes are here between November and April each year before migrating east toward El Cuyo. 

Experience an authentic Yucatecan neighborhood in Itzimna 

Most tourists that travel to Merida will base themselves in the central touristic districts close to the Paseo Montejo, Parque San Juan, the Zocalo, and Parque Santa Lucia. But if you want to experience an authentic Yucatecan neighborhood that still offers plenty by way of cafes, restaurants, and cultural experiences, take a look at Itzimna. 

This quaint district takes its name from the Mayan God Itzamná and was once an independent town until urban expansion saw it become a part of Merida. Parque Itzimna marks the center of the neighborhood and is home to the 1710 ¨Parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Help¨ Catholic church. 

Casa Gemela (Calle 16 No.107 Esq. 31, Cto. Colonias, Itzimná) is an elegant mansion that has been transformed into an art gallery and cultural space. It plays host to live musicians every Saturday night, who perform to a small, intimate audience. 

Caffe Latte Itzimina is widely regarded as being the very best coffee place in the city, while the various independent stores that encircle the square sell local agro products that make great souvenirs from your trip to Mexico. 

Experience Hanal Paxan – the Mayan Day of the Dead 

If you happen to be traveling to Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula in November , you can participate in the region’s magical Hanal Paxan celebrations. This is essentially the Mayan answer to the infamous Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) and the two holidays take place on the same dates, although they share several differences and similarities. 

Hanal Paxan means ¨food for the souls” in Mayan and the holiday celebrates the lives of loved ones lost. November 1st and the 2nd are the key dates but in the capital of Merida, the festivities go on for a couple of weeks. 

Bakeries and patisseries around the city sell pan de los muertos (bread of the dead) – a delicious, sugary orange-flavored doughnut-like pastry and every store, train station and hotel decorate their interiors with calavera skulls and calaca skeletons. 

Paseo de las Animas is a particularly interesting tradition. Locals paint their faces with catrina makeup and participate in a candlelit procession from Merida’s Cementerio Genera to the city center, to welcome the souls of the deceased back into the world of the living. 

Relax at the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a large protected area just south of Tulum. Sian Ka’an means “gate of heaven” or “origin of the sky” in Mayan. 

This area is a paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and beach-goers alike. Here, you can swim in the crystal clear waters of alluring white-sand beaches backed by dense jungles and coconut groves, sail through the mangroves, or set out on a hiking and trekking adventure.

Assuming that you want to relax by the coast, some of the best beaches in the area can be found at Punta Allen and Boca Paila. If you are lucky, you might spot dolphins playing in the nearby waters. 

Go birdwatching in Rio Lagartos 

Rio Lagartos is a small fishing village on the banks of Lagartos Lagoon, on the northern tip of the Yucatan state. Less than 4,000 people call this little pueblo their home and most of the local residents work in fishing and agriculture, although a small handful of tourists have started venturing here in recent years.

For 900 pesos, you can hire one of the local fishermen to take you on a 3-hour boat tour across the lake. Along the way, you will stop to see mud baths that the Mayans would use as a natural spa, a grove occupied by crocodiles, and the spectacular beaches of Playa de San Felipe and Playa Publica.

For an extra special experience, take a boat out at night to see the sunset over the lagoon and the Gulf of Mexico. There are only a handful of hotel/accommodation options in the area, most of which are quite rustic. 

Hotel Rio Lagartos is a nice choice, and they have an excellent rooftop bar where you can enjoy pina coladas and frozen margaritas as you gaze across the lagoon. 

See the famous pink lakes of Las Coloradas and Laguna Rosada 

The infamous pink lakes of Las Coloradas and Laguna Rosada were on everyone’s social media feeds a couple of years ago. The water in the lakes is naturally a shade of ultra-bright pink – creating a setting that looks absolutely out of this world. 

This is because of a specific type of red brine shrimp that lives in these waters. Las Coloradas is the more popular of the two, but it is often crowded with tourists, even if you go early in the morning. 

Laguna Rosada, close to the Xcambo ruins and Telchac Puerto is a great, alternative option. Interestingly, locals also mine salt from these waters, and you can see them working and sieving it out as you walk around. 

Experience Valladolid 

The city of Valladolid is a charming pueblo magico in the center of the Yucatan state, some 44km away from the ruins of Chichen Itza. Valladolid Mexico is named after the city of the same name in Spain, which was the country’s capital at that time. 

The city dates back to 1543 and was developed by the descendants of Spanish Conquistadors over the site of an existing Mayan city. The Spanish destroyed Mayan temples and shrines, pillaging them for building materials. 

This led to several violent clashes and fights between the Spanish and the Maya that would last for centuries.

Modern-day Valladolid is sleepy and tranquil – a stark contrast to its violent origins.

Despite its size, the city has more of a small-town feel about it. The impressive 1545 San Servacio church can be found in the city center, along with some interesting local markets selling traditional food and clothing. 

While you are here, you should also make time to visit the colorful Convent San Bernardino – one of the oldest convents in the Yucatan. 

Spend a weekend in Campeche 

The state of Campeche is the least visited of the three states in the Yucatan tri-state area. The state capital, Campeche City is a colorful colonial port city that thrived during the 17th century and was an extremely important trading post for the Spanish. 

Its old town is UNESCO-protected and is widely regarded as being one of the best-preserved colonial settlements in Mexico today. The crumbling remnants of old fortifications, bastions, defensive walls, fortresses, and rusting cannons that once guarded the inhabitants against pirate attacks still stand. 

Part of the joy of visiting Campeche is simply found in taking the time to get lost among the cobbled streets and narrow passageways. For 100 pesos, you can take an old-fashioned trolley tour of the city, stopping here and there to photograph important churches and neighborhoods. 

The Campeche Malecon is a 7km promenade that leads you along the waterfront, past interesting sculptures, street art murals, bars, and restaurants. 

See a city developed around ancient ruins in Acanceh 

Acanceh is a small town southeast of Merida that is worth stopping at briefly if you are driving through the area en route to the Homun cenotes or Izamal. Acanceh means ¨lament of the deer” in Yucatecan Mayan, and the interesting thing about this town is that it is also an ancient Mayan city and archeological site. 

Here, grand Mayan pyramids and observatories, with well-preserved stucco masks of the sun god K’inich Ahau sit beside colorful churches and tumbledown wooden shacks selling drinks and snacks. The modern-day town has been built between and around the ruins, and Acanceh is unlike anywhere else in the world. 

Have brunch or dinner in Cholul  

Cholul is an upscale village just north of Merida whose bars, restaurants, and boutique stores attract a crowd of well-heeled Yucatecans. It is worth coming here for an afternoon from Merida to have lunch or dinner and to meander around the Parque K’íiwik Cholul. 

Every Sunday morning, there is a small flea market beside Cholul church, where locals come to sell their second-hand clothing, toys, and games, while street vendors pop up selling local fruits, sweets, and carne asada. 

Al Modar (C. 20 106, Cholul) is a great place to head to for breakfast or brunch, and the eatery offers giant cups of frothy cappuccinos as big as your head, as well as excellent breakfast dishes from across Mexico and the world – from Spanish omelets and eggs benedict to spicy chilaquiles. 

Nearby Sabor a Mango offers elevated Mexican cuisine in a stunning setting. The interior of the premises is designed like a traditional Yucatecan homestead, while you can also choose to sit in the outdoor courtyard where live musicians perform jazz, blues, and Mexican pop music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. 

Spend a day by the beach in Sisal

Sisal is the final of the four Yucatan state pueblo magicos. It was awarded ¨pueblo magico¨ status in December 2020 and awaits at the northwestern tip of the state. 

In the 19th century, this was an important trading port for the Spanish as they shipped henequen (¨sisal¨) to various countries across the globe. As time went by, Progreso became the best strategic port in the Yucatan and today, Sisal is best known for its pretty beach. 

You could easily while away a lazy day or two hanging out on the beach here. Since Sisal is a bit of a trek from Merida, Cancun, and the other popular tourist sites in Yucatan Mexico, few people make the effort to venture here and the beach is generally pretty quiet. 

If you are traveling from Merida, you can also stop in the lovely town of Hunucmá on your way to Sisal, to indulge in traditional cuisine and homemade ice cream. 

Edzna Ruins 

The Edzna ruins , some 52km south of Campeche city are both some of the most impressive and yet, largely unknown Mayan ruins in the Yucatan peninsula. This, in part, is likely because public transport in Campeche state leaves a lot to be desired, and a lot of travelers are not aware of the existence of the site unless they have a major interest in history. 

Edzna was also known as ¨House of the Itzas¨. It dates back to 700 BC and formed strong political and commercial relationships with Uxmal and Chichen Itza until it was eventually abandoned in 1500 AD.

The ruins were not discovered until 1907 and excavation works were still ongoing in the 1980s. There are a couple of interesting buildings to look out for here. 

The ¨Temple of the Masks¨ contains two incredibly well-preserved giant masks of the god Kinich Ahau. One portrays him as an old man, the other portrays him in his youth. 

The Great Pyramid and the Grand Acropolis that occupy the main plaza are towering structures that can be seen from a distance along the jungle road well before you arrive at the Edzna complex. 

Swim with whale sharks at Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox (pronounced ¨Hol Bosh¨) is a gorgeous island off the northern coast of Quintana Roo in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. It is part of the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve and a protected area. 

A diverse range of wildlife can be found in Holbox; American flamingos live here from April to October, and pelicans, turtles, crocodiles, and dolphins also call the island home. 

No cars are permitted on the island, so most people get around by ATVs and golf caddies. 

One of the best things that you can do on Holbox Island is to take a whale shark tour or go swimming with whale sharks. These majestic endangered creatures migrate to the warm waters of the Mexican Caribbean between April and September every year.

These gentle giants can grow up to 12 feet long and live off a diet of plankton. They pose no threat to humans. (The suggestion of swimming with sharks can sound terrifying but this isn’t like you are swimming with great white sharks!)  

From Holbox, you can also take day trips and excursions out to the nearby Isla Pasión (Passion Island), Isla Pájaros (Bird Island), and Cabo Catoche (Cape Catoche).

Admire the coastal Tulum ruins 

The Tulum ruins are among some of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico . They are perched on top of a rocky bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and the site is the only known Mayan city that was built along the coast. The name “Tulum” means “wall” in Mayan – a nod to the sunbleached defensive walls that still stand here. 

It is thought that the original city that once stood here was actually named “Zama” and the site is believed to date back to at least 564AD. One of the best things about visiting the Tulum ruins is having the opportunity to swim in the turquoise waters of the beach beneath them. 

Rent a bicycle and cycle through the ruins of Coba

The Coba archeological site is what remains one of the largest and most important Mayan cities in the Yucatan peninsula. At one point, more than 50,000 people called Coba home, meaning that the city was of equal size and scale to Chichen Itza. 

It is estimated that there are more than 6,500 structures at the Coba site, although only a portion of them have been excavated currently. (Who knows what other treasures and artifacts await beneath the surface?). 

The site is so vast that its various buildings and plazas are connected by a series of white stone Mayan roads known as sacbes that you can rent a bicycle and cycle between. One of the most notable structures here is the 137-foot pyramid of Nohoch Mul – one of the largest in the Yucatan. 

Take photos at Cenote Suytan 

Cenote Suytan is the famous Instagram cenote that you have probably seen plastered all over people’s social media feeds in Mexico. It’s the popular cenote that has a little circular platform in the center of it, providing the perfect photo opp. 

A small hole in the roof of the cenote allows a single spotlight of sunlight to shine through, creating a magical effect. Cenote Suytan was once used by the Ancient Maya for ceremonies and rituals and they believed that it was a portal to the underworld that would allow them to communicate with their gods. 

Cenote Suytan is not really a place to go if you want to spend a peaceful afternoon swimming as it is always crowded and you have to queue up to get a photo on the famous platform. But it isn’t far from the main attractions in Tulum, so if you want to get a shot of yourself here, it is worth stopping by. 

(Come as early as you can to avoid the crowds and tour buses!)  

Final thoughts on the best things to do in the Yucatán Peninsula 

Do you have any further questions or concerns about the best things to do in the Yucatan? I have been living in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula for the last two years and have explored every destination in this Yucatan peninsula travel guide, and a great deal more!

This guide is already pretty mammoth but I will update it periodically as I find more and more interesting things to do in the Yucatan. If you are planning a trip to this region for the first time, you might also enjoy reading these Mexico travel tips.  

Have a wonderful time in Mexico! Buen Viaje! Melissa xo 

Melissa Douglas

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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! 

©GIBAN/Shutterstock

Yucatán Peninsula

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

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tulum Ruins

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

Parque Nacional Isla Contoy

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

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

Museo Maya de Cancún

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

Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka'an

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

Campeche State

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

Chichén Itzá

Yucatán State & the Maya Heartland

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

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

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21 Best Places To Visit in Yucatan Peninsula in 2024

Are you planning your trip to Yucatan and wondering what are the best places to see? I visited the Yucatan Peninsula many times and stayed in total a couple months. It took me a couple years to visit all the tourist attractions and highlights in the Yucatan Peninsula.

In this list you will find the best places to visit and coolest things to do, but don't worry you don't need a couple months the see the best places. But if you want to see the main tourist attractions you will need a couple days, preferably somewhere around 2 weeks.

The best way to explore and travel the Yucatan Peninsula is by car. Renting a car in for example Cancun or Playa del Carmen is very cheap and totally worth it. Is it safe? YES!

After my list of the best places to visit in the Yucatan Peninsula I will show you the ultimate itinerary and below you can also find a map of where to find all these amazing places in the Yucatan Peninsula.

This Yucatan travel blog is more than just a list of amazing places and an itinerary. You will also find tips for a road trip, things to do and everything else you need to know about traveling to the Yucatan Peninsula.

At the end I tell you all about my adventures road tripping in Yucatan.

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Traveling to Mexico? Make sure to get a local prepaid sim card or an e-sim card. Here is a guide for buying a prepaid sim card for tourists in Mexico in 2024  or make it yourself easy and order an e-sim card for Mexico on the internet. Check out my guide with everything you need to know before ordering an e-sim card for Mexico on the internet in 2024 .

When you are ready to see more of Mexico I recommend you to check out my article with the 20 Amazing Places to Visit in Mexico .

1. Cancun (A)

If you feel like you need a day to rest from your flight to Cancun there are endless amazing Cancun hotels on the hotel strip. This is also where you will find the best beaches in Yucatan. Most of them are privately owned by the hotels though. Cancun is the best base for your Yucatan itinerary.

Car rentals are cheap and busses go in all directions from either Cancun Airport or downtown. From here it is easy to get to all the amazing places to visit in Yucatan. A cool day trip from Cancun is Rio Secreto, an underground river tour .

2. Isla Holbox (B)

In case you are jet legged this is where you want to get rid of it. If you travel to Isla Holbox you will understand why, because here it is all about that slow paced island life. The Caribbean vibes are all over this car-free island. Bike around the sandy streets until you find your perfect spot on a deserted beach or find a lounge bed in one of the beach clubs.

Don’t forget to got to Punta Coco to swing in a hammock for sunset, it was one of my favorite things to do in Yucatan Peninsula. Find all my Isla Holbox tips in the link. Isla Holbox is like one big resort for people backpacking Yucatan. Oh yeah and here is where you can swim with whalesharks a couple months a year.

3. Valladolid (C)

Soak up some real authentic Mexican lifestyle in this charming city. This is where you will find hidden haciendas, colorful houses, instagram spots, lovely restaurants and boutique shops. Valladolid is a small city with a lot of soul and most famous for its spectacular cenotes around Valladolid .

This is Cenote Suytun , one of the most famous cenotes in Yucatan and a famous Instagram photo spot. Make sure to visit the cenote at the right time of day or get disappointed. Check out my tips in the link above. Exploring the cenotes by bike is one of the great things to do on your Yucatan trip. Click here for my list of 22 Valladolid Mexico travel tips .

4. Ek Balam (D)

Meet the Mayas for the first time on your Yucatan itinerary. The little brother of Chichen Itza is close to Valladolid and can be done on a day trip or on your way to Rio Lagartos. Here you will also find Cenote Xcanche to cool off on a hot day. The best thing about Ek Balam is that you are still allowed to climb the pyramids and therefore one of the best places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula.

5. Rio Lagartos (E)

My trip to Rio Lagartos turned out to be one of my favorite things to do in Yucatan Peninsula. I had zero expectations and for less than $15 I got a 3 hour boat trip, including bird watching, mud bath, flamingos, crocodiles, a mangroves tour and got to see Las Coloradas Pink Lake.

When you travel to Yucatan Peninsula make sure you visit Rio Lagartos! Add this place in your itinerary, it is worth it. Click here for all my Rio Lagartos travel tips .

6. Chichen Itza (F)

There is no Yucatan travel guide that doesn’t include Chichen Itza, but on my last Yucatan trip in March 2019 I didn’t go. I went to visit Chichen Itza 11 years ago and of course it blew my mind. I heard that nowadays it got extremely touristy, but for a reason. This is one of the 7 World Wonders and a must visit in Yucatan Peninsula. If you are backpacking Yucatan be aware that the entrance fee since 2019 is raised to 480 Pesos ($25). Secret Yucatan Peninsula travel tip is to download a tour guide app for Chichen Itza for $1 to save money on an expensive guide.

I bet after you visit Chichen Itza you want to take a refreshing dip in one of the most beautiful cenotes in Yucatan Peninsula: cenote Ik Kil, just 5 minutes away from Chichen Itza. Click on the link to see my vlog about and a complete blog post with 25 things to know about this Chichen Itza cenote .

7. Izamal (G)

A little detour on your way from Chichen Itza to Merida there is the yellow city of Izamal, definitely worth a stop on your Yucatan itinerary. It is a Maya pilgrimage for a sun god so it made sense to paint your house yellow but when in 1993 the Pope visited Izamal they all went bonanza painting their houses yellow. It is a unique place to see in Yucatan Peninsula.

8. Merida (H)

The capital of the Yucatan State and the most authentic city on the Yucatan Peninsula. It is considered the oldest city in the Americas and of course full of history. This is where you go dancing in charming bars at night and escape the daily heat by swimming in cenotes. The Merida nightlife is the best place to soak up some latin vibes. Merida is a peaceful city with amazingly friendly people and a vibrant vibe. Plan you Yucatan Peninsula itinerary so that you visit Merida on a Sunday. There are street markets and live music everywhere around the city. It was one of the best experiences on my Yucatan road trip. Click here for all my Merida Mexico travel tips .

9. Celestun (I)

Visiting Celestun is kind of the same as a trip to Rio Lagartos. Depending on the month of your Yucatan Peninsula trip this is where you will find much bigger groups of flamingos though. They can be found with hundreds together here in Celestun. Find also plenty bird life, crocodiles, boat trips and a peaceful fishing village. Visiting Celestun is best to be done on a day trip from Merida.

10. Uxmal (J)

The very impressive Uxmal ruins deserve a spot in this list of amazing places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula. Great thing about the Uxmal ruins is that you can still climb one of the big pyramids and it offers great jungle views. Uxmal can also be visited as a day trip from Merida or on your way to Chetumal or Bacalar.

11. Chetumal (K)

I honestly wasn’t really impressed by the capital of the Quintana Roo state and one night is enough here to rest from your long drive from Uxmal ruins. Chetumal is the border town with Belize and hasn’t really any tourist attractions. It is great if you are backpacking Yucatan as it is really cheap. You won’t often find it in any Yucatan Peninsula travel guide, although some Costa Maya ruins are nearby: Kohunlich, Dzibanche and Kinichna. These ruins are totally off the beaten path and you will have them all for yourself. You could visit them on your way from Uxmal to Bacalar. If you decide to skip Chetumal on your Yucatan peninsula itinerary I would totally understand.

12. Bacalar (L)

One of the newest Yucatan Peninsula highlights is Bacalar. Located on an utterly stunning lake renown for its shades of blue it is now named in every Yucatan travel blog. The town is struggling with its popularity though and good value accommodation is hard to find. Go kayaking on the lake or hop on a boat to the Pirates channel and enjoy the day in this absolutely amazing lagoon. There are also several ‘beach’ clubs located along the lake and tubing or kayaking tours are among the best things to do here. For amazing food go to the Vegan restaurant Mango y Chile.

13. Mahahual, Costa Maya (M)

The Yucatan Peninsula is full of amazing tourist destinations and another favorite of mine was  Mahahual Costa Maya Costa Maya . This sleepy fishing village quickly changed into a tourist hotspot when they constructed the Costa Maya cruise port in Mahahual.

Although on cruise days the town can get busy it still is one of the coolest places to visit in Yucatan. The best thing to do in Costa Maya is to grab a beer and swing in a sea hammock.

14. Sian Ka’an (N)

The only place I have not been on this ultimate Yucatan itinerary. It surely is an off the beaten path tourist destination in Yucatan Peninsula as it is hard to get to. When you are on a road trip it makes things easier. Sian Ka’an is popular for day trips from Playa del Carmen and Tulum as here you can snorkel with manatees, sea turtles, dolphins and even see crocodiles all in one boat trip. All this wildlife makes a Sian Ka’an boat trip one of the best things to do in Yucatan Peninsula.

15. Tulum (O)

The Tulum beaches, cenotes and Maya ruins have been the main reasons to visit Tulum, but over the last years this city gained popularity through Instagram as a real hipster place.

Co-working spaces, lovely coffee cafe’s, vegan restaurants and yoga workshops are well present in Tulum. A great place for many digital nomads boosting an inspiring vibe. There are no high-rise hotels to be found in Tulum which makes it a much more relaxing place to visit in Yucatan Peninsula.

16. Coba (P)

When thinking about visiting Maya Ruins in Quintana Roo then Coba is your best bid. It can easily be done on a day trip from Playa del Carmen and Tulum. There is no need to stay overnight at Coba unless you want to be the first one in and climb the pyramid without any other tourists around. Still not sure where to go then read my Coba vs. Tulum Ruins article.

17. Akumal (Q)

Once a super small village and one of the best kept Yucatan Peninsula travel tips. There is a stunning beach with a reef just offshore full of sea turtles and stingrays. Apparently the marine wildlife can still be seen, but nowadays Akumal beach is not public anymore. To protect the ecosystem you will now have to pay 100 Pesos ($5) for beach access, but snorkeling with sea turtles is still possible. I stayed overnight in Akumal, but it can easily be done on a day trip from Playa del Carmen or Tulum as well.

18. Playa del Carmen (R)

No need to introduce one of the most popular places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula. The notorious Playa del Carmen is a super touristy destination, great for those looking to party. For miles there are many big all inclusive resorts lined up along the beach and there is a party to be found everywhere around the famous 5th Avenue. From Playa del Carmen there are many day trips to be found like Selvatica Canopy adventure , Tulum and Coba tour , etc.

19. Cozumel (S)

Towards the end of your Yucatan Peninsula itinerary it is time for some island vibes again. Cozumel is a very popular cruise destination in the Yucatan Peninsula. A day trip to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen is an option but then you will miss the amazing sunsets. Rent a scooter on Cozumel and drive around the island.

Beach clubs, deserted beaches, snorkeling and even surfing can be found here. If you have more time and are a scuba dive lover then you will love a trip to Cozumel.

20. Puerto Morelos (T)

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the Riviera Maya than make sure you include Puerto Morelos on your Yucatan road trip. A super chilled beach town right in the middle of Playa del Carmen and Cancun. Snorkeling in amazing here read more about it in my Puerto Morelos travel blog .

21. Isla Mujeres (U)

The best way to end your Yucatan itinerary is by soaking up some final beach vibes before you get back in the plane. Isla Mujeres is just a stone throw away from Cancun and offers one of the best beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula. Although touristy there are still places to escape the crowds and when the day trips from Cancun leave Im sure you will find this the best place to end your Yucatan trip. Check out this article for the best things to do in Isla Mujeres in 2024 .

I am pretty sure when you would tick off all the above cool things to do and amazing places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula it is going to be the trip of your lifetime!

Ultimate Yucatan Peninsula road trip itinerary

Day 1: cancun (a), day 2-4: isla holbox (b) - island life, day 5-6: valladolid (c) - cenotes, day 7: ek balam (d) - maya ruins, day 8-9: rio lagartos (e) - wildlife, day 10: chichen itza (f) - maya ruins, day 11: izamal (g) - picturesque town, day 12-13: merida  (h) - authentic city life, cenotes, day 14: celestun (i)- wildlife, day 15: uxmal (j) - maya ruins, day 16: chetumal (k) - maya ruins, day 17-18: bacalar (l) - lake/lagoon, day 19-20: mahahual costa maya (m) - beaches, day 21: sian ka’an (n) - wildlife, day 22-23: tulum (o) - beaches, cenotes, day 24: coba (p) - maya ruins, day 24: akumal (q) - beaches/snorkeling, day 24-26: playa del carmen (r) - party, day 27: cozumel (s) - scooter adventure, day 28: puerto morelos (t) - beach town, day 29-30: isla mujeres (u) - beaches.

As you can see the above Yucatan Itinerary is pretty damn packed full of cool places to see and things to do. Loads of ancient Maya ruins, sunsets, sea hammocks, ancient cities, snorkeling with turtles, beach destinations, cenotes, beautiful lakes, crocodiles, pelicans and a pink lake. Doesn’t this sound like a dream trip?

I will first give you some more Yucatan peninsula travel tips and then will tell a little bit about all the listed places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula.

Is a Yucatan Peninsula road trip safe?

Yes, yes, yes, yes! A road trip in the Yucatan is most probably safer than driving around your home country. Yucatan tourism did a lot to make this a safe place for tourists and it clearly has paid off. When I did a Yucatan road trip 11 years ago I saw loads of road blocks and military presence. This is all gone nowadays. Not a single moment on my Yucatan trip in March 2019 I felt unsafe, nor did I see anything suspicious. People around the Yucatan peninsula are extremely helpful. May you ever get lost, just ask for directions. These people don’t bite!

Make sure to always stay connected to the internet by buying a Telcel sim card. In my article the best sim card for tourists in Mexico in 2024  I found out that Telcel is the only mobile operator with decent network coverage all over Yucatan Peninsula.

There are reports of people getting stopped by the police for bribes, but all the Yucatan police did when they saw me was smiling and waving. Honestly I had not encountered any problems on my way, but literally just when I was about to gas up my car before bringing it back to the rental company they tried to scam me.

Be aware as this is a well known scam apparently! They try to scam you at gas stations. While writing about it I still get furious about how I got scammed. I sweared a lot in my best Spanish and made them all a fool in front of everyone. Basically 1 Liter gas costs 20 Pesos ($1), so a full tank is max 600 Pesos, half a tank max 300 Pesos, but the idiots asked me 700 Pesos for half a tank. So stupid! They tried it with the wrong person! Always look on the gas meter and see how many Liters approximately go in or just tell them for how many Pesos you want to gas up. The scam happened in a Pemex gas station in Playa del Carmen, the rest of the gas stations around Yucatan Peninsula were totally fine and very friendly people.

How is it to drive around Yucatan Peninsula?

The roads to the best places to visit in Yucatan are in a very good state. Almost all things to do in Yucatan are accessible by car, apart from some cenotes around Valladolid and Merida. There are only two toll roads in Yucatan Peninsula. One is Highway 180 from Cancun to Valladolid and the other one is highway 305D from Playa del Carmen to Valladolid. The rest of the roads are free of charge. On both toll roads they charge 233 Pesos ($12) for a normal car.

In Yucatan, Mexico they drive on the right side of the road. Apart from the 180(D) Highway from East to West and the 307 North to South you will be driving on single roads so be aware that there is upcoming traffic.

The most dangerous thing about a Yucatan road trip are the speed bumps. Very often there is no road sign for them and they are huge! Be aware that the speed limit often is not more than 90 km/h (60 mph). Just always drive within limits and the police won’t have a reason to stop you in the first place.

Is it expensive to rent a car in Yucatan Peninsula?

You would be surprised if I tell you that a Yucatan road trip is very affordable. Renting a car in Yucatan Peninsula is super cheap. For less than $10 per day you can already find a small car with unlimited kilometers/miles. I chose to get full coverage and therefore I paid another $12 extra per day. In total I paid a little over $20 per day for renting a car to complete most of my Yucatan itinerary.

I rented my car at MEX Rent a Car in Playa del Carmen . The employee that helped me was Carolina and she did a great job. It was smooth, fast and upon returning there was no issue. 

As I said gas costs only 20 Pesos ($1) per Liter and there are hardly any toll roads. A full tank for a small car is 30 Liters. One full tank will last for 500 kilometer (310 miles).

Backpacking Yucatan

Of course it is not necessary to rent a car to complete this ultimate Yucatan itinerary. I only rented a car for about two weeks, the rest I traveled around Yucatan peninsula by bus. The public transport in the Yucatan is very well organized and there is an extensive bus transportation system. The best bus company and of course also the most expensive is ADO. They have good, clean tourist class busses.

Because all the busses from Cancun to Isla Holbox were full I one time had to go with Oriente. Trust me if there is a choice, always pay the couple dollars extra for an ADO bus. Oriente overbooked the bus and an Italian guy had to sit in the isle for 3 hours.

If you want to backpack Yucatan in style then there also is the ADO premium class. This luxury bus is like traveling in business class. Worth the experience, but it is double as expensive.

A standard ADO bus ticket cost about $4 per hour. If you book in advance they claim to give you discounts, but I tried it myself and the prices stay the same. Therefore I would never really book in advance.

I wrote a complete guide for backpacking Yucatan with 22 travel tips, check it out in the link.

Best time to visit Yucatan Peninsula

Weather wise the best time to travel to Yucatan Peninsula is November to February when temperatures are the coolest. March, April and May it can get really hot and humid and from June till October is the official rainy season. High season is from December till April and therefore the best month to visit Yucatan Peninsula is November.

How much does it cost to visit Yucatan Peninsula

It all depends on what kind of traveler you are but there are a million ways to save money on a road trip in Yucatan. Accommodation doesn’t have to be expensive it just comes down how much privacy you are willing to sacrifice. There are great hostels around for those backpacking Yucatan, but Airbnb is a great option too. Food in the supermarket is much cheaper than back home and you can already eat breakfast, lunch and dinner for $5 per day if you prepare your meals yourself. Local food can easily be found for less than $5 per meal as well. Beers in Yucatan are cheap and at most local places you pay around $1 for a beer. Backpacking Yucatan can easily be done for less than $40 per day!

My experience traveling in Yucatan

In total I traveled, played, partied, explored, road tripped, chilled and toured around the Yucatan Peninsula for more than 2 months. Of those two months I rented a car for about 2 weeks and went to Rio Lagartos , Valladolid, Bacalar, Mahahual and back to Playa del Carmen. I stayed 5 days in Cozumel , decided to go to Holbox for a little bit and spent a week in Cancun and Isla Mujeres . Also traveled in and between Playa del Carmen and Tulum for some days before I moved to Merida  for almost two weeks. From here I visited Celestun, Uxmal and Izamal. Then I slowly traveled back and crashed again in Valladolid and through Playa del Carmen and Tulum I ended up in Cancun again and ended my Yucatan Peninsula trip in Isla Mujeres.

As you can see my road trip itinerary wasn’t really planned out very well and most of the Riviera Maya places I visited twice. But as a digital nomad and professional travel blogger I had all the time in the world to visit Yucatan Peninsula the way I wanted. Most of the times I traveled around by bus and as I said that is very comfortable.

Distances aren’t actually that long as the longest bus ride was from Cancun to Merida, which was less than 4 hours. A place where I really enjoyed having a car was around Merida. But that was also because I visited almost 15 cenotes around that area. There is no need for you to tick them all off, but I wanted to write an extensive travel blog about the Valladolid cenotes .

Where to stay in Yucatan Peninsula?

There are a ton of cheap places to be found in every city. Mostly I booked my hotels while on the road. Make sure you get a prepaid sim card for Mexico sim card  or an e-sim card for Mexico to be always connected to the internet and save on high roaming costs.

Staying longer than 3 nights in the same place then I recommend looking at Airbnb as they are mostly cheaper for long term rent. In general check out both and find your preferred one. I never made a reservation in advanced, always on the spot.

May you have any additional questions then leave me a comment below and Im happy to help.

Let my Instagram account @traveltomtom fuel you with wanderlust. As I am trying to visit every country in the world you might see places you never heard of before. As of January 2024 I have been to more than 155 countries.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Travel & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

I sincerely hope all this info and these tips about traveling to Yucatan Peninsula were helpful for planning your trip. If you feel like helping me then please share the link of this article somewhere on the internet.

Every share on Facebook is amazing and much appreciated and so is a tweet on X or a pin on Pinterest. Thanks you very much in advance for helping me in return.

Enjoy your trip to the Yucatan Peninsula!

• rio lagartos
• isla holbox
• playa del carmen
• puerto morelos
• riviera maya
• yucatan peninsula
• isla mujeres
• chichen itza
• sian ka'an

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

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• Beautiful Destinations In Yucatan

The 17 Most Beautiful Destinations to Visit in Mexico's Yucatán

The steamy, tropical southeast of Mexico is awash with paradise beaches, jungle ruins and charming cities – all of it infused with an unmistakably Yucatán flavor. The Yucatán Peninsula is the ancient heartland of the Maya in Mexico. Lining the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, coastal destinations such as Tulum Beach and Playa del Carmen are well-trodden but indubitably beautiful. Head into the forest-thick interior and you’ll find the archaeological ruins of Chichén Itzá and Ek Balam, while in the cities of Mérida and Izamal you’ll hear indigenous languages spoken amongst cobblestone streets and magnificent architecture.

Architectural Landmark

Yucatán’s largest city is one of the best-preserved examples of colonial Spanish town planning in Mexico, but walk along Mérida’s wide boulevards and past grand mansions and you’ll often hear Mayan dialects spoken, not Spanish. This is Yucatán’s cultural hub, where you can visit the Great Museum of the Mayan World , watch performances of the ancient Mayan ball game Pok Ta Pok in the zocalo and gorge on classic Yucatán cuisine such as cochinita pibil and sopa de lima at the Sunday food fiesta.

2. Chichén Itzá

Archaeological site

3. Playa del Carmen

Amusement Park, Park

4. Valladolid

Countless travelers pass through Valladolid on their way to the ruins of Chichén Itzá, but few stay to explore the cenotes , cantinas and old convents of this exciting yet compact city. Valladolid is the city of cenotes and you’ll find Cenote Zaci – one of these deep, flooded sinkholes – right in the center of the city. Nearby, you’ll find the cavernous and Instagram famous Cenote Suytun where you can take a dip below ground in cool waters. Then there are the stalagmites and stalactites of Cenote Xkeken, the rope swings and ziplines of Cenote Xcanche and the beautiful countryside surrounds of Cenote Oxman, which is located on an old hacienda.

5. Tulum Beach

Natural Feature

Yucatán’s most Insta-famous destination is Tulum Beach, where white sands meet the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. Beach clubs and hotels with infinity pools and Bali -style swings and floating breakfasts line the long coastline, while cafes serve up smoothie bowls with a shot of turmeric. But this is also Maya territory, with the northern end of Tulum Beach framed by the crumbling ruins of a pre-Hispanic port city that flourished long before the backpackers and Instagram stars found their tribe in Tulum.

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Historical Landmark

7. Las Coloradas

Pink lagoons, white sand beaches and a tropical climate; what’s not to love about Las Coloradas ? Located on the northern shores of the Yucatán Peninsula, it can be a trek traveling to this remote fishing community, but it’s worth it for the laid-back beach vibes and the vast flocks of pink flamingos that fill the lagoons. Take a boat ride to explore more of this extensive nature reserve, including the dense mangroves where crocodiles are often found stalking prey through the wetlands. End the day overlooking the Caribbean Sea with a cold beer and freshly grilled seafood.

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

Izamal is better known as the Yellow City. That’s because almost all of the houses, shops, buildings and churches here are painted a bright shade of lemon. But while it’s perfectly picturesque, hidden beneath the colonial architecture is an indigenous culture that’s still prominent today. Spanish isn’t always the first language in Izamal; take a closer look at the Franciscan Monastery and you’ll realize that it was built on top of a Mayan pyramid. In fact, the entire colonial city was built atop a Mayan city and amongst the yellow mansions, you’ll find the ruins of crumbling pre-Hispanic temples.

9. Celestún

Wildlife lovers will want to catch the next bus to Celestún, where 600sqkm (232sqmi) of mangroves, beaches and wetlands are protected as part of an enormous biosphere reserve. This is one of the most beautiful destinations in Yucatán and the ecosystem supports hundreds of species of birds, including vast flocks of vividly pink flamingos . Spend the day enjoying the white sands of the beach or take a boat tour through the biosphere in search of saltwater crocodiles and endangered sea turtles.

10. Ek Balam

Ruins, Historical Landmark, Archaeological site

Strap on your mask, and wade out into the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea at Akumal. You’ll soon find yourself swimming with sea turtles, barracuda and manta rays as you snorkel the coral reefs. It’s no surprise that Akumal means the Place of the Turtles in the local Mayan dialect because this beautiful segment of the Riviera Maya is full of wildlife. You’ll find all the luxury hotels and beach bars you need here, too, but developments have still left the local nature protected. Learn more about the famous local turtles by joining a nighttime turtle watching tour at Xpu-Ha Beach, where these endangered creatures are found in abundance.

12. Cenote Azul

It gets hot along the Riviera Maya, but, luckily, the Yucatán Peninsula is a hotbed for freshwater swimming holes. Better known as cenotes , these flooded sinkholes are peculiar to the region, and they are fantastic for swimming. One of the best and most beautiful in the Riviera Maya is Cenote Azul, an open cenote that’s turquoise in color and perfectly refreshing. Spend the day jumping off the low cliffs, swimming in the freshwater and enjoying a foot massage courtesy of the nibbling fish. Cenote Azul is located around 20 minutes away from Playa del Carmen.

Archaeological site, Ruins, Historical Landmark, Architectural Landmark

For centuries, the ruined Mayan city of Cobá was lost to the ravages of the forest. Once home to as many as 50,000 people, Cobá was a powerful city-state that would have ruled over much of Yucatán. Mighty Cobá was already abandoned when the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, though, and the temples and pyramids were overgrown when they were rediscovered in the 19th century. The archeological site is best reached from Tulum, and, given the relative remoteness, you’ll see just a fraction of the tourists that Chichén Itzá receives.

14. Isla Mujeres

15. Puerto Aventuras

Puerto Aventuras has long tried to be the best-kept secret in the Riviera Maya, but it was always going to be a challenge to keep one of the most beautiful destinations in Quintana Roo under wraps forever. It’s located just 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, and there are only a select few resorts to check into at Adventure Port – one of them is the Hard Rock Hotel . If you’re not swept up in the all-inclusive vibe, then head down to the white-sand beach in Puerto Aventuras, where there are no crowds but excellent snorkeling just meters offshore.

16. Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is the “official” starting point of the Riviera Maya, and, while the seaside town is a major port and harbor for the whole state, the beaches to the north and south are best described as pristine. Many of those white-sand beaches have been taken over by resorts, but it’s far more laid-back and secluded here than in Cancun. The waters off the coast are shallow, which is great news for snorkelers because the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and all of its glorious marine life can be reached from the beach.

17. Sian Ka'an

Natural Feature, Park

Looking for somewhere to rest your head after a day of exploring? Stay in one of the coolest places in the Yucátan Peninsula or even at a boutique base in Cancun . For your post-adventure meal, nothing beats dining like a local . And if you can’t get enough of this incredible region, find out the things you never knew about Yucatan , including the hidden cenotes .

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

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All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Places to Stay

The best villas to stay at in cancun.

The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in Cancún, Mexico

Ritz-Carlton Cancun, Mexico: From £279pp/$365pp for 5 Nights

See & Do

Outdoor adventures near cancún.

The Best Luxury Hotels in Cancún, Mexico

The Best Spa Hotels to Book in Cancún, Mexico

Restaurants

The best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in cancún, mexico.

The Best Resorts in Cancún, Mexico

Guides & Tips

12 things to know before you go to cancun.

The Best Vacation Rentals in Cancún, Mexico

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30 Things Nobody Tells You About Visiting The Yucatan Peninsula

Who hasn’t dreamed of visiting the Yucatan Peninsula? Turquoise seas, sandy beaches and charming colonial cities have drawn lucky travelers to this tropical paradise for decades!

But we had so many questions before our 70-day adventure throughout this misunderstood place:

• Can you get off the beaten path in this ultra-touristy part of Mexico?
• Is it even safe to visit the Yucatan Peninsula?
• Are the margaritas served frozen or on the rocks?

This post shares 30 things that nobody tells you about visiting Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula! We want to encourage others to get deeper into the Yucatan Peninsula. Like 391 feet to the bottom of a cenote deep. (That’s the depth of the Yucatan’s deepest cenote. Yes, I looked it up.)

We’re including useful tips, places to avoid, and moderately amusing observations about one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world!

Estas listo (are you ready)???

Estimated reading time: 39 minutes

*Note: this post contains affiliate links. We receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from these links . Thanks in advance for supporting WOTW!

What Nobody Tells You About Visiting Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula?

1. The Yucatan Peninsula Is Not What You Think It Is

What comes to mind when you think about the Yucatan Peninsula? Is it all-inclusive resorts, spring break crowds and sunburned cruise passengers?

Let’s face it, many people that visit the Yucatan Peninsula never leave their resort. Well, eventually they do… it’s not like they just impulsively move to Mexico. I’m just saying that a lot of people don’t venture out to explore the rest of the region.

But could there be something more to this place? What if we told you that visiting the Yucatan Peninsula can be a magical experience of mind-blowing foods, fascinating Mayan culture and unexpected adventures? What if we told you everything you know about the Yucatan is a lie???

Sorry, I got a little carried away…

2. The Riviera Maya Actually Is Exactly What You Think It Is

Nothing like a shameless contradiction to start this blog post! But let us explain…

About 40 million people visit Mexico each year, and the Yucatan Peninsula receives the highest percentage of those visitors. In fact, most travelers wind up in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, which is home to vacation hot spots like Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel. And these famous destinations are located in what is known as the Riviera Maya .

And, if we’re being completely honest, most of the Riviera Maya is probably exactly what you think it is. This ultra-popular area feeds the stereotypical view of the region: party vibes, all-inclusive experiences, congested streets, and frankly, limited substance. The extent of cultural immersion for many visitors is saying ‘Hola’ to the guy at the omelette station.

And we’re not trying to tell people how to travel – everyone has the right to spend their vacation how they want. All we’re saying is that the Riviera Maya is touristy .

3. But There’s Still One Place In The Riviera Maya We Love

We spent almost two weeks on the tropical island of Cozumel. Two weeks! And we never ever wanted to leave.

Now you may be asking, ‘doesn’t Cozumel receive more cruise ship passengers than any other place in the Caribbean? And isn’t it filled with cheesy theme restaurants like Margaritaville and Señor Frogs? And don’t you guys usually try to avoid these kinds of places?’

Well, yes. Those things are mostly true.

But even though Cozumel does cater to the crowds of cruise passengers disembarking daily, there is still a very authentic and unexplored element to this lovely little island. Head to the local market to chow down on traditional Yucatecan dishes, or head to the island’s east coast to visit Cozumel’s untamed and less explored beaches.

Which meanders perfectly into our next point…

4. The Yucatan Is Actually A Super Laid-Back Travel Destination

Go beyond the hectic streets and party atmosphere of the Riviera Maya’s most popular spots and you can find a part of Mexico that is wonderfully laid back. It’s true! The Yucatan has plenty to offer visitors looking to get away from the crowds to discover the region’s true identity.

The Peninsula is home to virgin beaches, enchanting cenotes, fascinating Mayan ruins and much more! And if you take the time to look, you might even find yourself having a private cenote for the day or walking up an ancient Mayan temple with no other people in sight.

And speaking of those delightfully refreshing sinkholes…

5. Cenotes Are One Of The ‘Coolest’ Things About Visiting The Peninsula (pun intended)

How many cenotes are too many? We’re not exactly sure – but we were determined to find out! We visited a dozen cenotes during our trip around the Yucatan. And, no, that wasn’t too many 🙂

Never heard of cenotes and have no idea what we are talking about right now? Well, cenotes are limestone sinkholes that have been filled with groundwater. And there is seemingly an infinite number of these awesome natural wonders located around the Yucatan Peninsula.

Want to find the best cenotes to visit in the Yucatan? We loved the undiscovered cenotes near Merida and Homun!

Cenotes are great places to cool down and connect with the Yucatan’s energy. That’s because the local Mayan communities considered cenotes sacred gateways to the underworld. Cool!

This brings us to our next point:

6. The Yucatan Is A Great Place To Experience Mayan Culture

Exploring indigenous cultures might not be top of mind when planning a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula. We totally get that the Caribbean beaches and picture-perfect cenotes are why most people visit this part of Mexico.

But the Mayan civilization thrived in this region for many centuries. And it continues to be an important part of the region’s identity to this day.

You can still hear local communities speaking Mayan dialects and ladies wearing traditional clothing! So even though the ancient Mayan cities have collapsed, the Mayan culture is still alive and well in the Yucatan. That said, you’ll have to go beyond the Riviera Maya to really connect with Mayan communities .

And even if you aren’t planning to visit the Yucatan for cultural experiences, we still consider the next thing on this list a ‘must do.’

Do you like this kind of post? Read these next:

• Isla Holbox : 10 Things Nobody Tells You About Isla Holbox, Mexico
• Oaxaca City : 35 Things Nobody Tells You About Oaxaca City, MX
• Lisbon : 33 Things Nobody Tells You About Lisbon, Portugal
• Cappadocia : 21 Things Nobody Tells You About Cappadocia, Turkey

7. Don’t Miss Out On Exploring The Yucatan’s Mayan Ruins

This part of Mexico is home to a mind-boggling amount of ancient Mayan cities. And they all vary in size, beauty, historical significance and popularity. And if you travel to learn about the places you visit (which we fully endorse), then there is no excuse not to visit at least one of these incredible remnants of one of the world’s great ancient civilizations.

Discover the 13 best Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula!

We promise that the Yucatan’s Mayan ruins are worth a visit, even if you’re not particularly interested in history or archaeology! We loved seeing the incredible details and enormous temples at places like Ek Balam and Uxmal. And we felt like the luckiest people in the world when we had the stunning ancient city of Edzna almost all to ourselves!

But guess what?

8. Visiting Chichen Itza Is Cool, But It’s Not The Best Mayan City

Yea, we realize that the ‘best’ is totally subjective. So just consider the above statement our own opinion.

Anyways, Chichen Itza is the most visited single attraction on the peninsula. And it is a beautiful, interesting and convenient place to add to your itinerary. But we can vouch that its reputation for being super busy and commercial totally holds up.

Check out our vlog about Chichen Itza if you want to see what it’s like!

It’s a place where many people seem to go to get the perfect photo for social media rather than immerse in the place’s incredible history. In that sense, it’s a bit like Pamukkale’s famous Cotton Castle.

If you are spending most of your time around the Riviera Maya and have to choose only one Mayan ruin to visit, consider Ek Balam instead of Chichen Itza. We found it more impressive and much less commercialized!

Chichen Itza is also less appealing because there is hardly any shade. Which, you will surely notice because…

9. The Yucatan Peninsula Can Get Sweltering Hot

We traveled throughout the peninsula from early February to late April. And we dealt with triple-digit heat (+37 Celsius) for the last month and a half of our adventure.

This kind of heat is so intense no matter what you are doing. But it can become especially overbearing if you are climbing Mayan ruins or exploring colonial cities located miles away from the nearest beach.

We felt our brains slowly melting away after a few weeks of dealing with the intense Yucatecan heat. We struggled to pull together any coherent words or thoughts. Make sure to drink plenty of water and consider channeling your inner Wim Hoff by taking cold showers.

So now you may be wondering: is the heat the only thing I have to worry about during my vacation?

10. Mosquitos In The Yucatan Peninsula Are Relentless

We call South Florida ‘home,’ so rendezvous with Jumanji-sized mosquitos are nothing new to us. But the pesky little f’ers we encountered while visiting the Yucatan Peninsula are cut from a different cloth.

You better run for cover at sundown – because the mosquitos in the Yucatan come after you like heat-seeking missiles . We literally saw people spraying themselves from head to toe with mosquito repellant. And yes, that even includes locals. We’ve never seen anything like it!

So make sure you bring some bulletproof repellant when visiting the Yucatan, especially if you will be there during the rainy season.

Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Okay, so now you know that it gets hot and there are demon mosquitos – but is there anything more serious to worry about while visiting the Yucatan Peninsula? Good question. You’ll be happy to read the next thing on this list:

11. The Yucatan Peninsula Is The Safest Region In Mexico

Bring up ‘Mexico travel,’ and the issue of safety will inevitably arise. But did you know that you have little to worry about when visiting the Yucatan Peninsula?

The states of Campeche and Yucatan (which make up the western half of the peninsula) are the safest in all of Mexico! And even Quintana Roo is statistically very safe – despite the shocking news that comes out of places like Cancun and Playa del Carmen from time to time.

We drove through the countryside, traveled by bus, walked around cities at night, and almost always had our cameras out. And we always felt perfectly safe. So even though people love to portray all of Mexico as a lawless country, nobody tells you that the Yucatan Peninsula is actually a super safe place to visit!

Just avoid getting involved with the wrong people (aka drug dealers) and it is unlikely that anything bad will happen.

And you won’t have to worry about anything when visiting #12 on this list.

Curious about everything from prices to our favorite spots? Just hit play!

12. Punta Allen Is The Peninsula’s Most Underrated Rustic Retreat

Punta Allen, Mexico is located only a short distance from Tulum. Still, it is a world apart from its trendy neighbor to the north.

This little fishing village was by far the most remote place we visited. We had to drive the world’s bumpiest road and take a small boat just to get there! But we were happy to find out that you can still discover hidden gems in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Punta Allen is free of paved roads, ATMs and anything even remotely resembling the flashiness of the popular coastal cities in the north. And that’s why we fell in love with it! It’s a place to embrace lazy walks on the beach, long morning coffees and a simpler way of life.

Check out our vlog about magical little Punta Allen (video includes beach pups and sea turtles).

There are crocs in Punta Allen, but they only come out at night in a spot outside of the main town. So just don’t go wandering off in the middle of the night!

Want to know about another favorite and (slightly) under-the-radar destination? (Hint: we tell you in number 13 on this list of what nobody tells you about visiting the Yucatan Peninsula.)

13. Beautiful Bacalar (And The Crocodile-Free Lagoon) Are A Must-Visit

Would you believe it if I said that the photo above was not taken from some tropical beach? That’s right, what you are looking at is Bacalar’s famous ‘7-color lagoon,’ a slice of fresh-water paradise!

Yep, you guessed it – we also have a vlog dedicated to the beautiful town of Bacalar. Check it out!

We have to mention that Bacalar is becoming a trendy destination . And you’ll have no problem finding glamorous lodging options, wellness retreats and even açai bowls. But even though it is changing fast, it is still a beautifully relaxed little town that has yet to attract the mass-tourist crowds.

So while there are definitely some hidden gems to discover in the Yucatan, it’s made more difficult by the fact that…

14. Many Blogs About The Yucatan Peninsula Don’t Paint The Full Picture

Bloggers are all liars!!!

Just kidding, that’s obviously not true. But people in our industry tend to portray every destination as a bohemian paradise that just HAS to be added to your itinerary. And when these statements are combined with perfectly edited images, it becomes pretty easy to influence people’s perceptions of a place.

That’s why we do our best to be transparent with our blog. We don’t appreciate when places are misrepresented by bloggers . We also read blogs to get informed about places, and we have definitely been led astray before! Actually, the next spot on this list of things nobody tells you about the Yucatan Peninsula is a perfect example of being misled by bloggers simply trying to get clicks.

15. Las Coloradas Is The Yucatan Peninsula’s Biggest Tourist Trap

Damn you, Colorado Pink Lakes!!!

The highly Instagrammed ‘Las Coloradas’ is Exhibit A in the tourist trap playbook. Just typing the name makes my blood boil.

You may have seen pictures on social media of the famous Las Coloradas Pink Lakes. And we can’t blame anyone for thinking that this place is a unique natural wonder you just have to visit. But the reality is that Las Coloradas is actually a total tourist trap.

So why are the pink lakes a tourist trap, you wonder. Well, we have several reasons:

• The pink lakes are much less colorful in real life than in photos.
• They charge a ridiculous $30 US to ‘enter’ the pink lakes, even though you have the same views from the parking lot 25 feet away.
• Las Coloradas isn’t even a natural phenomenon. The pink ‘lakes’ are a byproduct from the adjacent salt factory.

Don’t be influenced by the pretty pictures on Instagram! We promise it’s not worth it.

But that’s not all…

WOTW Tip : even though the crazy pricing at Las Coloradas is transparent , we witnessed people (mostly Americans) being overcharged for tours and at popular cenotes. Do your research beforehand to know what you are supposed to be paying, and don’t let people upsell you a package of activities that you don’t want or need.

16. Even Places Like Valladolid & Isla Holbox Are Not What People Say They Are

Let me start by saying that we really liked Valladolid (we can’t say the same for Isla Holbox) . But dig into the top Google results for Valladolid and Isla Holbox and you’ll find the following messages:

• Valladolid : ‘incredible hidden gem,’ ‘off-the-beaten-path,’ ‘escape mass tourism’ and ‘underrated.’
• Isla Holbox : ‘best-kept secret,’ ‘relaxed car-free island,’ and ‘bohemian.’

Okay, so what is nobody telling you about these places?!

Well, even though it is a lovely town, it is impossible to call Valladolid a hidden gem. The main square is surrounded by tour buses with eager day-trippers every afternoon. The center of town swarms with people visiting on packaged excursions. So, hidden gem? We think not.

And Isla Holbox is literally popping at the seems from overcrowding. And do people even know what bohemian means anymore, or is it just a fun word to use?

Bohemian : socially unconventional in an artistic way.

Anyways, all that to say that it’s easy to be misinformed when looking for your vacation spot in the Peninsula.

And now that’s off of our chest, we can continue talking about other things we love about this part of Mexico!

17. The Yucatan’s Colonial Cities Are 100% Worth Checking Out

Maybe visiting historic colonial cities isn’t one of the first things you think about when planning a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula. But it should be! Cities like Merida, Campeche and Valladolid are full of history, culture and colorful charm.

From the bustling streets of Merida to Campeche’s charming walled city, there is so much to see and do in these places. Exploring the well-preserved colonial architecture and fascinating history is the perfect change of pace from the lazy beach days you’ll have on the coast.

Want to learn more? Check out this post where we compar e colonial cities in the Yucatan!

Not yet sold on visiting some of the coolest cities in the Yucatan? Do yourself a favor and proceed to number 18 on this list of things nobody tells you.

You may also be interested in…

• Cancun vs Cozumel : Find Out Which Tropical Destinations In The Riviera Maya Is Best
• Oaxaca City : 35 Things Nobody Tells You About Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico.
• Valladolid : 23 Unforgettable Things To Do In Valladolid, Mexico (With Videos)
• Bacalar : 21 Things To Do In The Costa Maya’s Hidden Gems (With Videos)

18. Colonial Cities Are Home To The Yucatan’s Best Cantinas

This may sound silly, but the Yucatan Peninsula doesn’t always feel like the Mexico portrayed in popular culture. This region was the last to become part of Mexico, and the culture has a huge Mayan influence. We even learned that the citizens here didn’t consider themselves Mexican for decades, even after officially becoming part of the country.

But one crucial element of traditional Mexican culture that thankfully made its way onto the Peninsula over the years is the glorious cantina. Visiting these local drinking establishments is top 3 on my personal list of favorite things to do in the Yucatan!

Grab a few ice-cold beers, enjoy the free tapas-style snacks known locally as botanas, and do your best to sing along to classic Mexican tunes! Cantinas are a highly underrated thing to do in the Yucatan Peninsula.

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19. the yucatan peninsula’s most beautiful views are underwater.

Yes, the above is totally a biased statement. But the highlight of our trip has to be snorkeling and diving in the Yucatan Peninsula’s tropical waters. We were lucky to go scuba diving six times during our stay in Cozumel. The service was beyond first-class, and the amount of life we saw beneath the surface was mind-blowing!

We weren’t super positive about the Riviera Maya earlier in this post. But it is impossible to deny the incredible diversity of life that can be found in its surrounding water. Fun fact: the Great Mayan Barrier Reef is located in the Yucatan’s Caribbean waters. It’s the second-largest reef system in the world, and it is beautiful!

We can only say that the diving and snorkeling along the Peninsula is out of this world. We saw more turtles than we could count, octopuses, sharks, eagle rays and every tropical fish you can name. This is why we can not wait to go back to Cozumel.

But don’t worry if you prefer your views of the turquoise seas to come from above the surface…

20. The Yucatan Has Plenty Of Tranquil & Unspoiled Beaches

The beaches around Cancun, Tulum and the other popular spots draw the vast majority of people vacationing in the Yucatan Peninsula. And while these beaches are admittedly beautiful, they are also quite developed and can get crowded.

But not to worry. There are also plenty of more remote stretches of sand where you can enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Here is a list of stunning beaches on the Peninsula ideal for those looking for a more rustic and tranquil tropical hideaway:

• Cancunito near Rio Lagartos
• El Cuyo near Rio Lagartos
• Sisal near Merida
• Isla Aguada near Campeche

And you are in for a treat once you work up an appetite from your day at the beach because…

21. Traditional Yucatecan Food Is Like Nothing You’ve Ever Had Before

Traditional Yucatecan foods are freaking amazing!

Don’t think that the typical dishes from your local Mexican restaurant will have anything in common with the Yucatan’s unique cuisine. Ever heard of ‘Salbutes’ and ‘Panuchos?’ What about ‘Brazo de Reina’ and ‘Polcanes?’ All of these delicious traditional foods were brand new to us!

The dishes are often rooted in Mayan cuisine, with many popular foods still using traditional ingredients and cooking methods! We won’t talk about all these different foods, but we have three YouTube videos highlighting the best food in the Yucatan Peninsula.

But keep reading to find out about one of the world’s most incredible foods. That’s not an even exaggeration!

We figured Yucatecan Food was important enough to include a video. Enjoy!

22. You Haven’t Been To The Yucatan If You Don’t Try Cochinita Pibil

Have you already visited this part of Mexico but have yet to taste the famous Cochinita Pibil? We hate to inform you that you haven’t had the complete Yucatecan experience…

Obviously, we are kidding!

But, seriously – Cochinita Pibil is a ‘must try’ when visiting the Yucatan Peninsula. This dish is not only delicious, but it is also a true taste of the region! It is made from pork marinated in a spice blend and then slow-cooked underground until it is fall-apart tender.

Throw the succulent pork into a fresh tortilla with some pickled onions and habanero sauce, and you have one of the world’s great culinary creations. And that’s not an overstatement. It really is that good!

And definitely don’t miss out on trying the Yucatan specialty next on this list.

WOTW Tip : even though you can find Cochinita Pibil throughout the week at more touristy places, it is typically a Sunday dish. Ask around where to find the true local experience to get your Sunday fix. And make sure to get there early – the cochinita can be gone by noon!

23. Relleno Negro Is The Yucatan’s Most Delicious Surprise

Have you ever heard of Relleno Negro? Neither had we! In fact, we even have a foodie friend in Mexico City who didn’t know about this awesome dish. It is Mayan to the core.

Intrigued by these unfamiliar foods? Check out our post about the 40 mouthwatering Yucatan Foods & Drinks that you have to try. You will be booking a one-way trip in no time!

Relleno Negro consists of turkey or chicken that has been cooked in a black recado paste. Burnt chilies are used to make the recado paste that gives this traditional Yucatan food its smokey flavor and strange black color. Don’t let the peculiar appearance throw you off! Relleno Negro is an exciting and delicious food to try during your vacation in Mexico!

Are you eager to try some traditional foods but need help finding find them? Just keep it moving to the next item on this list!

24. Don’t Avoid Eating In The Yucatan Peninsula’s Local Markets!

You will get hungry at some point during your visit to the Yucatan Peninsula. Maybe even several times a day. And there’s one thing you definitely must do when you get hungry: pay a visit to the local market!

We know what you’re thinking – you don’t want the infamous Montezuma’s revenge to ruin your little tropical vacation. Many visitors avoid eating at the markets because they aren’t sure what to expect. But here are a few things you should know about eating in the local markets:

• The food is fresh and typically very safe to eat (we never got sick once from eating at a market).
• You can find many traditional Yucatecan dishes and other classic Mexican cuisines.
• The prices are very reasonable.
• The atmosphere is lively and vibrant.

So don’t believe the horror stories about travelers’ food poisoning in Mexico. The local markets are a safe way to experience an authentic part of local life on the Peninsula. Though there is one thing to keep in mind if you are a healthy eater:

25. You Might Have Trouble Finding A Salad

Pork is the Yucatan’s favorite vegetable. And freshly fried tortilla chips are part of almost every sit-down meal. So unless you go to Tulum, Bacalar or other trendier places, then you may find a healthy meal hard to come by.

This might not be the worst thing in the world if you are only visiting the Yucatan for a short vacation, but after being there for 10 weeks, we couldn’t wait to eat some things that grow out of the ground.

We can only advise to enjoy the incredible Mexican food while your vacation lasts. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to eat healthy when you go home.

The Yucatan Peninsula’s epic foods aren’t the only reason traveling here is so great!

26. Getting Around The Yucatan Peninsula Is Pretty Easy

Getting around the Yucatan Peninsula is easy, safe, and (usually) comfortable.

We took countless buses, taxis, some ferries, and even a couple of speedboats to move from place to place. Here’s the summary of our experience:

• Bus travel along more popular tourist routes is incredibly straightforward.
• Taking local mini-buses (colectivos) between places can be extremely cheap, but less comfortable.
• You can negotiate for taxis to drive you longer distances, but having a local arrange the price for you is best.
• Colectivo taxis also exist between cities or towns located a reasonable distance from each other. These are shared taxis that depart when full. They are more expensive than the colectivo bus, but cheaper than a private taxi.
• Speedboats are the most fun way to travel…. by far!

Driving is also an easy way to get around. But we would be remiss if we didn’t mention number 27 on this list of things nobody tells you.

WOTW Tip : ADO is the best company for planning regional bus travel. The buses are brand new and reliable. Most cities will have an ADO station where you can book your trips, but you can also book online for most routes. That’s what we did 🙂

27. Car Rentals Can Be A Pain In The Butt

Wait, didn’t we just say that driving around the Yucatan Peninsula was easy? So what gives?

Let us explain. We rented a car on five separate occasions during our visit, and most times were disasters. The worst experiences happened in Chetumal and Campeche.

Both times we booked through well-known rental companies. However, when we showed up on the day of our rental, we found that the office was closed or that they didn’t have any more cars. Mind you that both times we received confirmation for bookings!

We still recommend getting a rental car to visit more remote places, but keep the following in mind:

• Car rental is quite pricey.
• Inventory of automatic vehicles is limited.
• Most places are closed on Sundays.
• Smaller rental agencies often require a two-day minimum.
• Google business hours are not reliable.
• Bring your passport when picking up your vehicle.
• Have some extra cash to bribe the traffic police.

Big time jk on that last point! You shouldn’t worry about crooked cops when driving around the Yucatan Peninsula (in our experience). But it is always good to keep some local currency on hand.

28. Many Places Accept Dollars, But It’s Best To Use Mexican Pesos

While the official currency of Mexico is the Peso, many places on the Yucatan Peninsula will accept American Dollars. This can be helpful for visitors who do not want to deal with exchanging money. But also, it’s something we wouldn’t necessarily advise.

We noticed that you could use US Dollars at restaurants, for tours and even at grocery stores in the more touristy areas around the Peninsula. And the exchange rate offered by these places was okay.

But having Mexican Pesos is the way to go if you plan to explore deeper into the Yucatan. Dollars and also credit cards are not widely accepted once you get outside the most touristy areas.

29. You Don’t Need To Know Spanish (But It Does Help)

Knowing a bit of the local language is always helpful. And we encourage fellow travelers to learn some basic words and phrases in Spanish before heading to Mexico. Not only will it help you to get around easier, it is also a fun way to connect with local people and to show respect.

That said, don’t make your limited Spanish skills an excuse not to visit. English is widely spoken in the more touristy areas. And even when its not, the locals are extremely friendly and patient with foreigners. Between speaking with your hands and some laughs you can usually get your point across.

So you don’t have to speak fluent Spanish to have a great time. And we’ll close with one more thing that we are sure of…

30. Everyone Will Find Something To Love When Visiting The Yucatan Peninsula

Beach bums, history buffs, adventure seekers, foodies and basically everyone will have an excellent time visiting the Yucatan Peninsula. This region is so full of magic and adventure that you would be challenged to have a bad time.

Hopefully, you’ve learned by now that there are infinite ways to enjoy a vacation in this diverse region. And with a little bit of effort, it’s not difficult to get off the tourist trail to discover those things that make the Yucatan an extraordinary place to visit.

Time to pack your bags for Mexico! Please remember to eat some Cochinita Pibil tacos for us while you are there 🙂

Thanks for reading!

Have any questions about visiting the Yucatan Peninsula? Reach out in the comments or DM us on Instagram!

Want to explore more of the Yucatan Peninsula? Read these next:

• Cozumel : Guide To The Top Beaches In Cozumel, Mexico (With Videos)
• Campeche : 22 Incredible Things To Do In Campeche: Mexico’s Rainbow City (With Video)
• Guadalajara: 33 Things Nobody Tells You About Visiting Guadalajara
• Merida: Guide To Visiting Amazing Merida, Mexico (With Videos)

Tired of reading? We have an entire Mexico travel series on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe while you’re there to follow along with the adventures 🙂

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We have traveled the Yucatan quite a bit over the years (we got married there 20 years ago!). We love it there – so many awesome things to do there.

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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.

• Moon Palace Cancun
• Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun
• Wyndham Alltra Cancun
• Haven Riviera Cancun
• Hyatt Ziva Cancun
• Harry’s - Cancun
• NAVÍOS Mexican Fusion Seafood
• Taboo Cancun
• Señor Frog's Cancun
• Nicoletta | Modern Italian Kitchen Cancún
• Happy Shuttle Cancun
• Kalido Travel
• Coco Bongo Cancun
• Playa Delfines
• Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour
• Cancun ATV Jungle Adventure, Ziplines, Cenote and Tequila Tasting
• Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour with Tequila and Lunch
• Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkel, Open bar and Transportation from hotel
• Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves

Yucatan Peninsula: Places to Visit in 10 Days

The Yucatan Peninsula is one of the most visited destinations in Mexico for its fascinating cultural heritage, natural resources, and historical sites to visit. Here is an example of a 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary that includes the most famous places and things to do. It is a tour that invites you to explore the Yucatan Peninsula in-depth and discover its nature and local people.

You will visit internationally recognized places such as Chichen Itza and Puerto Morelos, plus you will discover the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, which will reveal its most beautiful surprises. This trip out of the ordinary will end with a few days of sun and relaxation in the Yucatan Peninsula. Book here a unique and different trip with Rutopia.

Itinerary – Yucatan Peninsula

Day 1- arrival at cancun, transfer to puerto morelos .

Tripadvisor

Upon arrival at the airport, you will meet your transfer to your hotel in Puerto Morelos. Depending on your arrival time, you can take a stroll on the beach or go to your hotel for the night, get ready to start your trip around the Yucatan Peninsula in the morning! 

Day 2- Enjoy the beaches and wonders of Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is a small fishing village that has become one of the most popular destinations in the Riviera Maya for those seeking peace and tranquility. Firstly, you can enjoy the beach and relax on the soft white sand. We promise you that you will fall in love with this place and the relaxed atmosphere at the end of your day.

You can do different activities in Puerto Morelos, including snorkeling and discovering the beautiful world beneath the water’s surface. Another option is to go to one of the cenotes of the famous route where you can snorkel, zip line, biking, rappelling, bird watching, among other things. Finally, enjoy a good meal with a magnificent ocean view. Puerto Morelos has several restaurants like La Sirena, Punta Corcho, and El Merkadito. 

Day 3: Valladolid-A Colonial Yucatan Getaway

Valladolid is one of the must-see cities of Yucatan, a magical and colonial city. You can’t go anywhere without stopping in Valladolid. There are many things to do here, but as we only have one day, we share with you some activities you could do: visit the convent, the cathedral, the regional museum, the Calzada de Los Frailes, the market and dive into the Cenote Zaci and enjoy other beautiful corners of Valladolid, all of them full of history and tradition.

From Valladolid to Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve 

Day 4: Ek Balam and Rio Lagartos 

Today the trip will continue in Ek Balam, where you will visit the fascinating archaeological site. Also, you can rent a bike and ride 1 km to reach a cenote. An open cenote is a great option to cool off after walking through the Mayan ruins. You can also practice rappel, zip line, or rest in one of the hammocks.

Next, you will head to the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, where you will enjoy a breathtaking sunset while dining at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas Biosphere Reserve 

Today, you will take a boat tour of Rio Lagartos, a biosphere reserve with Mexico’s most significant pink flamingos concentration. The Rio Lagartos protected reserve is a wetland area home to animals such as flamingos, sea turtles, crocodiles, jaguars, and seabirds. Explore this beautiful area by boat.

Then, you will visit the famous pink lagoons of Las Coloradas, located just 30 minutes from Rio Lagartos. Once there, local guides will be waiting for you at the gate to show you around. Unfortunately, you cannot enter the area on your own. However, it only costs 50 pesos and in addition to helping the local community. 

Day 6: Discover Chichen Itza at sunrise – swim in the Yokdzonot Cenote

These ancient ruins are the most famous and best-preserved of Mayan history. With our local guide at the helm, Chichen Itza is an extraordinary place on the trip and a history buff’s delight. Its main attraction is the Pyramid of Kukulkan (El Castillo). However, many significant Mayan and Toltec buildings, sculptures, and reliefs will draw you in, such as the Temple of the Warriors, the Hall of a Thousand Columns, and the ball courts.

Then, you will head to the enchanting cenote of Yokdzonot, relatively unknown and not as crowded as other cenotes. Cenotes were sacred to the Maya and represented the entrance to the underworld.

Finally, spend the night in the colonial town of Izamal. 

Day 7: Izamal and Merida 

Firstly, you will stop at Izamal, known as the yellow city of Yucatan and one of Mexico’s Magical Towns, is where you will start your day. Then, you will have time to tour the city, enjoy its colonial atmosphere, and try the local restaurants. Izamal is also called the “city of three cultures” for its splendor that dates back to a mixed heritage of pre-Hispanic culture, colonial influences, and modern Mexican culture.

Merida is the capital of the state of Yucatan. The city is larger and more bustling than any previous city you will pass through. During your stay in Merida, be sure to go to Celestun, especially during November through March, as flamingos settle there for the winter. A beautiful excursion to do and accessible by public transportation. Other things to do in Merida include a free walking tour of Merida, breakfast at El Barrio Comfort Food, Uxmal to see some Mayan ruins, or you can also enjoy a day trip to Progreso if you’re looking for a day at the beach.

Day 8 – Explore Coba

Today you will visit the archaeological site of Coba. If you decide to climb to the top, you will have an extraordinary view of the beautiful jungle that surrounds this impressive site.

Then, you will continue your day to Nuevo Durango (about 30 minutes away), a small ecotourism community and organic food production. This community has maintained its cultural identity in both language and customs. Here you will enjoy a traditional meal and meet Don Manuel and his family. He is a member of the community that operates an Environmental Management Unit (UMA), a beautiful project to conserve the region’s endangered animals where you can observe several endemic species of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Day 9 – Playa del Carmen

Braden Collum – Unsplash

There is no need to introduce one of the most popular places in the Yucatan Peninsula. The notorious Playa del Carmen is ideal for a party, a tourist destination. Althought, there are many great all-inclusive resorts lined up along the beach, and there is a party to be found everywhere around the famous 5th Avenue, there are also incredible natural spaces in Playa del Carmen. In addition, from Playa del Carmen, there are many day trips such as the Selvatica Canopy adventure, the Tulum and Coba tour, etc. 

Day 10 – See you later, Mexico!

Today is the last day of your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary. You will check out your hotel this morning and head to the Cancun airport. Then, at the terminal, at least three hours before your flight is scheduled to take off. It has been a pleasure to show you a different side of Mexico.

However, if you are not ready to go? An experienced expert can help you organize your trip to extend your adventure in the Mexican Caribbean.

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9 Best Places To Visit In Yucatan

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Yucatan ?

Yucatan Peninsula is one of the states in Mexico that is home to native Maya people. As the territory that separates the Caribbean Sea from the Gulf of Mexico , it is well-known for its best beaches to visit and other tourist spots.

Yucatan is home to the Chichen Itza , which is considered one of the seven wonders of the world. It was constructed by the Maya and is now a major tourist destination on the peninsula. Aside from being one of the world’s seven wonders, Chichen Itza is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yucatan is the ideal place for perfectly white sand beaches; therefore, it’s a must try to go snorkeling with sea turtles, eat Mayan food or swim in the bright pink ocean of Las Coloradas. Those are definitely some of the best things to do when visiting Yucatan.

There are so many interesting things to see there, like the whale sharks, flamingos in El Cuyo,The Island of Women, the Sacred Cenote and so on. But when traveling to visit a new location for vacation or holidays and wanting to have a smooth staycation, it is important to make a list of the top sites to see in order to make the most of the time there.

Chichen Itza is only one of the many intriguing spots to see in Yucatan , and it is well worth everyone’s time. The following are the best locations to visit on the Yucatan Peninsula. Throughout the article, discover the interesting things to see in Yucatan and the best things to do there.

Things you'll find in this article

Best Places To Visit In Yucatan

2. izamal or yellow city, 3. valladolid, 4. isla mujeres, 5. puerto morelos, 6. costa maya, 8. isla holbox, travel tips and resources.

Espita is a small colonial town located on the Yucatan Peninsula that is deemed to be a non-tourist destination due to the lack of touristic infrastructure.

However, even though it does not have any tourist attractions, there are many photogenic places to visit in the area. It is the best location to get a sense of the local atmosphere. Taking a tour there is peaceful, and travelers will undoubtedly fall in love with the place after their visit.

Izamal is best known as “Ciudad Amarilla” or the Yellow City because almost every building in the town is painted in yellow. It is a captivating city with numerous tourist attractions to view, including the famed Convento de San Antonio de Padua, which is definitely a must-see. It is the second-largest Christian convent in the world, after the Vatican.

The entire atrium is also painted in yellow. According to common belief, the color combination is thought to keep mosquitoes at bay. However, it is also believed that the color scheme reflects the Sun and Kinich Ahau (the Sun god of the Mayans).

Another thing to do while in Izamal is to stop by the Kinich Kak Moo Pyramid. It is one of the largest pyramids made by the Mayans. Tourists don’t have to worry about additional expenses because the entrance fee is free.

To book this tour click here.

This charming city will allow tourists to feel an authentic Mexican lifestyle free of any foreign influence. It is a safe destination and an affordable place to visit in Yucatan .

This place is absolutely worth visiting because there are many Instagram-worthy spots to be found, such as the colorful vintage cars and the adorable walls painted in pastel colors that will definitely spice up everyone’s feed. Those who travel through the vibrant streets of Valladolid will be immersed in the culture and history of the Maya.

Aside from the beautiful streets of Valladolid, they are also known for their famous cenotes . There are also several cenotes nearby, including the Cenote Suytun, Cenote Zaci, Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman, and Cenote Saamal. These are great places to take a dip and refresh after a long and exhausting walk.

Isla Mujeres is a great place when wishing to experience calmness and tranquility away from the city. The island is renowned among tourists because of its white-sand beaches, ideal for enjoying water sports. One of which is the North Beach or the ‘Playa Norte.’

It is regarded as a unique beach throughout Mexico because of its soft sand and palm trees that will undoubtedly captivate tourists to have a long bath.

The MUSA Underwater Sculpture Museum and The Turtle Farm are two of the island’s attractions for visitors who want to learn more about marine life. By visiting the underwater museum, travelers will be able to gain a better understanding of the effects of climate change.

While The Turtle Farm will welcome visitors with a natural sea turtle sanctuary, as well as other aquatic creatures such as a variety of fishes and seahorses.

Puerto Morelos , also known as Hacienda Morelos , is a small beach town in Yucatan that will allow visitors to view more of the peninsula. It is a hidden gem that will take travelers to an entirely different dimension. Its simplicity makes it unique compared to other beaches, such as those in Costa Rica.

The village is not a busy place, and there are no five-star hotels in the area either. As a result, travelers will be able to spend their time in a peaceful and soothing environment. Aside from that, it has several souvenir shops that mainly feature Mayan and Mexican crafts.

Hacienda Morelos is also a good location for snorkeling trips. Snorkeling on the island will allow tourists to see the reef that protects the town of Puerto Morelos . It is a part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, which is the second-largest reef system in the world.

However, it should be noted that no one is permitted to touch the reefs because they are very delicate and may cause them to be completely destroyed.

Costa Maya is an ideal place for relaxation. It is surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches that are perfect for summer. Tourists will have an incredible diving and snorkeling experience, provided that the area’s vicinity is near to the Mesoamerican Reef System.

Costa Maya reefs are home to numerous forms of coral and more than 500 marine organisms such as turtles, sponges, pink conch, sea fans, and other sea creatures.

El Cuyo is a must-see destination when visiting Yucatan . It provides the nicest accommodations as well as calm beaches. El Cuyo is a little beach town that allows visitors to get a feel of a simple beach life.

Interestingly, this community was founded by ex-pats and residents who chose to make the area their permanent home.

Anyone will be mesmerized by the place when visiting Isla Holbox with family and friends. It lies a few hours north of Cancun and is a popular tourist destination.

Tourists will undoubtedly fall in love with this island because it is an ideal location for aquatic activities such as fishing, snorkeling, whale shark viewing, and other water sports. It is known as an island paradise because of the beautiful color of the ocean and the softness of the sand.

Merida is the capital of the state of Yucatan and is widely regarded as the most authentic city on the peninsula . People who appreciate dancing and partying will enjoy the Latin-vibes nightlife that is available there.

Tourists will not have to worry about anything throughout their visit because the locals are very friendly and accommodating. There are tons of activities to do in the city, like shopping, partying, visiting museums, or even taking a road trip.

Consider Yucatan as a destination for a staycation and see all of the places listed above for reference. Yucatan is a great destination for those who enjoy traveling and want to unwind away from stress in the city.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Hola! Que tal? I'm Christine, a Filipina but in love with Mexico. I used to live in Central America and Mexico is my favorite. Love tacos, tequila, and margarita.

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory august 22, 2023, mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

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Best places to visit in arizona.

Arizona is home to incredible landscapes, lively cities, spooky ghost towns, world-class spas and warm weather year-round, making the state ideal for a getaway any time of year. But to help you decide which Arizona destinations to spend your vacation in, U.S. News considered factors like the number of attractions, the availability of accommodations and the opinions of everyday travelers to pick the best places to visit in Arizona. Vote for your favorite spot below to help determine next year's list.

Grand Canyon National Park

Canyon de chelly national monument, monument valley, glen canyon national recreation area, vermilion cliffs national monument, coconino national forest, lake powell, wupatki national monument, petrified forest national park, montezuma castle national monument, lake havasu.

Undisputed as one of the best national parks in the U.S. , Grand Canyon National Park is Arizona's crowning achievement. Many travelers opt to visit the South Rim, which is home to Grand Canyon Village, scenic overlooks and several hiking trails, including popular routes like Bright Angel Trail and Rim Trail. For a less crowded alternative, try visiting the North Rim between mid-May and mid-October. And if you want a story for the ages, consider a mule ride to the bottom of the canyon or a whitewater rafting trip along the Colorado River.

In addition to breathtaking natural landscapes, Canyon de Chelly National Monument within the Navajo Nation is home to nearly 5,000 years of human history, making it one of the longest continuously inhabited destinations in North America. A thriving community of Navajo people still live and work here, surrounded by ancient Pueblo ruins, cliff dwellings and pictographs. While access to the interior of the canyon is limited to tours led by a Navajo guide (this includes excursions on foot, horseback and vehicle), auto-tours along the scenic North and South Rim Drives are self-guided.

Whether you're a fan of movies or jaw-dropping landscapes, chances are you'll love visiting Monument Valley. Many films have featured the red sandstone mesas and buttes found in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, which occupies land in both Arizona and Utah. Take the 17-mile-long Valley Drive from the visitor center to see some of the Arizona side's most popular sights, including the East and West Mitten buttes, Elephant Butte and John Ford's Point. The latter is named after the famous film director and features a Navajo store where you can buy jewelry and crafts.

Spanning more than 1.25 million acres in Utah and Arizona, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area appeals to travelers who are looking to spend some quality time in nature. Spend the afternoon water skiing on Lake Powell, the second-largest human-made lake in the United States, or hike the short trail to Horseshoe Bend overlook, which offers a unique perspective of the Colorado River as it snakes through Glen Canyon in a horseshoe-shaped curve. While you're here, you can't miss a visit to nearby Antelope Canyon, a mesmerizing slot canyon within the Navajo Nation that can only be explored via guided tour.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to this central Arizona town to enjoy its stunning scenery. Regularly described as one of the most beautiful places in America, Sedona dazzles with its famous red rocks and hiking trails (found in Red Rock State Park), as well as its vortexes. These unique rock formations are said to emit a healing energy from the earth, and it's an experience you have to feel for yourself to believe. The town is also home to numerous spas with Sedona-inspired specialty treatments, which are bound to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument's gorgeous rock formations draw hikers from around the world. Can't-miss landmarks here include The Wave in Coyote Buttes North and White Pocket in the Paria Canyon. Keep in mind, though, that both areas require permits for hiking and camping. These permits – which are given to a limited number of people per day (depending on the region and type of visit) by Arizona's Bureau of Land Management – ensure travelers can enjoy the monument without rubbing elbows with hordes of tourists.

This scenic town about 30 miles south of Sedona offers a wealth of attractions to suit every type of traveler. History buffs can spend their time browsing exhibits at Fort Verde State Historic Park and Verde Valley Archaeology Center and Museum, or exploring ancient cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument. Meanwhile, daredevils can choose from a variety of thrilling activities, including zip lining, horseback riding and joining a safari tour at the Out of Africa Wildlife Park.

Head to Coconino National Forest if you want to be surrounded by nature on your next Arizona getaway. This expansive forest is one of America's most diverse, with nearly 2 million acres of mountain-, lake- and creek-covered land. Hike to the top of the San Francisco Peaks (home to Arizona's tallest mountain, Humphreys Peak) to enjoy phenomenal panoramas, visit Fossil Creek to see one of the state's best waterfalls , or zip down Slide Rock State Park's rock slide for a refreshing dip in a swimming hole. The area is home to all kinds of wildlife, too, so keep an eye out for critters as you explore.

Millions of people flock to this destination in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area every year to enjoy the ultimate lake vacation . Popular pursuits at Lake Powell – which features nearly 2,000 miles of winding shoreline– include boating, water skiing, tubing, paddleboarding and wakeboarding. The lake's abundance of game fish also draws anglers in droves. No visit would be complete without hiking around the towering red rock formations that line the lake's shores.

Sitting less than 30 miles southwest of Sedona and roughly 110 miles north of Phoenix, this sleepy cliff side community in central Arizona makes for an excellent daytrip destination. Once dubbed "The Wickedest Town in the West," Jerome embraces its history as a former mining town, boasting must-see tourist attractions like the Jerome Historical Society Mine Museum and Jerome State Historic Park, which is home to the striking Douglas Mansion. Other activities include sipping on delicious vino at one of Jerome's wineries and learning about the town's haunted history on a ghost tour.

Travel to this national monument in northern Arizona for a glimpse into the state's fascinating past. Once home to a thriving agricultural community, Wupatki was designated a national monument in 1924 as a way to preserve this outstanding archaeological site. Four walking trails are open to the public and lead to seven well-preserved pueblos, prehistoric villages that were occupied 900 years ago. Want to explore off-trail? Join one of the park's ranger-led hikes (offered October through April) for a deeper look into Wupatki National Monument's backcountry, which includes additional pueblo structures and petroglyphs.

If you want to spend your next vacation outdoors, head to Petrified Forest National Park. In this more than 200,000-acre park, you'll discover one of the world's largest concentrations of petrified wood, plus rocky cliffs and animal fossils. To make the most of your time here, plan on incorporating several activities into your visit. Popular in-park pursuits include hiking, horseback riding and biking. Don't forget to also leave time for checking out some of the park's historical exhibits, such as those found at the Rainbow Forest Museum and the Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark.

Nicknamed "The Town Too Tough to Die," this southeastern Arizona destination shows what life was like in the Wild West. On Allen Street, where many of the town's saloons, shops and restaurants are located, you can check out historical landmarks like The Bird Cage Theater and the O.K. Corral Historic Complex, as well as watch costumed actors reenact a famous 1881 gunfight. The town's original courthouse and an Old West graveyard are also still intact, providing you additional opportunities to learn more about Tombstone's earliest pioneers, lawmen and outlaws.

Often compared to a high-rise apartment building, Montezuma Castle National Monument features a five-story, 20-room design that's built into the cliffs of central Arizona's Verde Valley. Although the pueblo structures were named after an Aztec emperor, the dwellings were built and formerly inhabited by the Sinagua Indian Tribe. Visitors can learn more about Sinagua culture at the monument's museum, located within the Montezuma Castle Visitor Center, before they trek the area's trails to Montezuma Castle and Montezuma Well. Remember, the monument does not permit entry into the dwellings due to their fragile state.

Surrounded by multiple natural treasures, Flagstaff is more than just a stopover on a road trip to the Grand Canyon. To the north, you'll find the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort – which offers everything from ski slopes to hiking trails – nestled 9,500 feet high in the San Francisco Peaks. And to the east sit ancient dwellings at Walnut Canyon National Monument. You should also spend a day exploring the Historic Downtown and Railroad District. The area is located on what is known today as Route 66 and features 20th-century buildings that house numerous restaurants, art galleries and shops.

Once a thriving mining town, Bisbee attracts travelers who want to get a taste of the town's past. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you stroll up and down Bisbee's streets during a walking tour. You can also learn more about the southern Arizona town's mining days as you explore the Copper Queen Mine and peruse the exhibits at the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum. If you enjoy learning about the paranormal, sign up for an evening ghost tour of some of Bisbee's historical – and reportedly haunted – buildings.

Prescott appeals to every type of traveler. Nature lovers can explore Prescott National Forest's 900-plus miles of trails on foot, by mountain bike or by horse before venturing to one of its lakes to go boating or fishing. For architecture buffs, there's Prescott's downtown district, which features all kinds of early American structures, including Victorian-era homes and former saloons. Meanwhile, culture hounds can check out several highly regarded museums, such as the Old West art-themed Phippen Museum and the Museum of Indigenous People.

Visit Lake Havasu to enjoy a variety of activities on and by water. The lake is one of Arizona's premier destinations for boating, water skiing, fishing and swimming. Plus, it features hidden coves accessible by kayak and the eye-catching London Bridge, which was relocated here from London in 1971. After spending some time on the lake, head ashore to Lake Havasu City, where you'll find shops, restaurants, campgrounds and hiking trails, among other amenities.

As the nation's fifth most-populated city, Arizona's capital is constantly buzzing with activity. Phoenix is lauded for its well-manicured golf courses, its world-class spas and its proximity to Camelback Mountain's hiking trails, but travelers can also visit unique attractions, such as the Musical Instrument Museum and the Desert Botanical Garden. What's more, Phoenix's diverse population gives it a dynamic restaurant scene for foodies to explore. Steakhouse fare and Mexican-inspired cuisine appear on many local restaurant menus, but to sample a bit of everything the area has to offer, sign up for a food tour of Phoenix and nearby Scottsdale.

You'll find plenty of ways to stay busy at Lake Mead. The Lake Mead National Recreation Area, which extends across the Arizona-Nevada border, is the first and largest of its kind in America. Its 700 miles of shoreline and 9 trillion gallons of water make it a massive hub for water sports like boating, fishing and water skiing. Plus, Lake Mead is considered one of the world's best freshwater lakes for scuba diving thanks to its range of depths. Can't-miss dive sites on the Arizona side of the lake include the Gypsum Reefs and Kingman Wash.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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

"GMA" Bucket List on a Budget is headed to Mexico!

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.

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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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