RIVIERA MAYA

Sian Ka’an is one of the most important Nature Reserves in Riviera Maya, one of the few unspoiled areas ideal for exploring the true natural beauty of Mexico. This place has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO since 1987 and it is no surprise, considering its amazing beauty. 

Here we find beaches which are very different from the style of Playa del Carmen, as they have maintained their unspoiled appearance, and have restricted access in some areas. They remain as they were when they were found by the first conquistadors who arrived on the American continent. 

One of the main attractions of the coast of Sian Ka’an is its enormous coral reef, the second largest of its type after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Diving in its turquoise waters is a pleasure, as the great biodiversity that thrives here is a spectacle to behold. The other great attraction is that there is barely any sign of human presence, other than the CESIAK ecological complex which offers recommended routes, as well as being the only establishment to stay overnight or have a meal on the coast of the park. 

In the state of Quintana Roo is the coastal town of Akumal, known for its location on the shores of one of the most beautiful beaches in Riviera Maya. A coral reef barrier 200 metres from the coast shields the beach from the waves and makes it an authentic and extensive natural swimming pool, ideal for snorkelling. 

In the Mayan language, Akumal means “place of turtles”. It is the nesting place of a large population of loggerhead sea turtles, which you can even swim with. Take care, because on the shore there will be more than one nest of these turtles that the recovery centre in the area tries to protect with signs indicating their presence. 

In the area, we can take interesting hikes starting from the main beach towards the north, reaching the impressive Yal-Ku cenote which connects with the sea. You will find this wonderful place quickly by following a route of just 3 kilometres, entering the jungle to discover the wonderful crystal-clear waters of Yal-Ku, which you will want to dive into

In the Playa del Carmen area, the liveliest beaches of the whole Riviera Maya coast are found, as partying and fun are most important here, without forgetting that the Caribbean is the best setting for maximum enjoyment. For those who like to see and be seen, there is a very special place known as Playa Mamitas, the area of Playa del Carmen for glamour and sophistication, which has been the setting for important, world-famous music festivals such as BPM and the Jazz Festival. 

Playa Mamitas has the typical Caribbean charm: white sand, crystal clear waters, constant good weather – therefore a great day in the sun is more than guaranteed. The greatest attraction for those who enjoy this area is that unlike other places, there is a great festival atmosphere here, with music everywhere, terraces on the sand for enjoying the sun and eating local delicacies, and above all for enjoying a drink while dancing during the day. You don’t have to wait until night to enjoy the party in Riviera Maya! 

When disembarking from the ferry in Isla Mujeres, less than half a kilometre away we find another unparalleled Caribbean paradise, a huge beach known as Playa Norte. Isla Mujeres is a very accessible place for tourism, just 20 minutes by boat from Cancún, and once there, all kinds of services are found to make the stay comfortable. 

Playa Norte is characterised by extending in the form of a bay, one kilometre in length. This creates the sensation that we are facing an immense swimming pool of crystal-clear waters. On the beach itself, we find all kinds of conveniences: restaurants, beach bars, street vendors, water activities, hammocks and even a restaurant service. Swimming in the sea will also be a delight, as on this type of shallow beach you can walk endlessly in the water. Finally, the most special moment that can be experienced on the beach is notable – sunset, when the sun leaves the sky, covering every centimetre of this spectacular beach with its warm light. Playa Norte has all kinds of surprises until nightfall! 

The archaeological area of Tulum is one of the most visited in Riviera Maya. Its secret is that few Mayan ruins have the privilege of being located on the shores of the Caribbean, a coast whose nature amazes visitors at first sight. This is what happens when setting foot on Playa Paraíso, the beach found less than a kilometre from these ruins, and also a great place for spending a day by the sea. 

Playa Paraíso has been awarded by several publications specialised in travel, such as TripAdvisor. Its immense sandbank of pure white sand, combined with the impossible blue of the ocean, make this place a paradise, as its name indicates. Here there is a perfect relaxed atmosphere for enjoying this unspoilt place, without crowding or hotel complexes. We find only a few beach bars, ideal for sampling the local gastronomy at a good price and hiring a hammock for resting while contemplating the Caribbean landscape. Playa Paraíso is the best picture postcard of Riviera Maya that you can take away as a memory! 

At the north of Cancún, we find the island of Holbox, just 40 kilometres long by two kilometres wide. The magic of this island is hidden in its over 34 kilometres of beach, its main attraction; and thanks to its isolation, it still preserves its semi-unspoilt state for the enjoyment of any visitor. 

What do we find on the beach of Holbox? There is of course all the charm of the Caribbean beaches: large areas of white sand, shallow, crystal-clear waters, and many palm trees that offer shelter when it is hottest. However, what really makes these waters special is the endless diversity of marine fauna due to this area in Mexico being where the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean meet, allowing the presence of sharks, manta rays, dolphins, lobsters, and fish of every colour. Ultimately, there is a wealth of underwater life worthy of being discovered by snorkelling or scuba diving. Among the most prominent animals are the whale sharks which usually gather at this island between June and September, allowing the visitors to swim with them, as they are very docile creatures. 

If there is a place that symbolises all the characteristics that we imagine when we think of Riviera Maya, it is the beach of Xpu-Há, a little-known place of unimaginable beauty thanks to the turquoise waters that surround its endless coast of white sand, bordered by a leafy jungle. It is located 25 kilometres south of Playa del Carmen and a few kilometres from the area of Tulum. It is a pleasure to be able to swim in such a beautiful place as this, with waters barely half a metre deep, so clear that you want to dive in, admiring its coral and the different species that live in its waters. It is also an ideal place for watersports such as snorkelling, a great way to discover the beauty hidden in the reefs. Kayaking is another of the sports that you can practice, which will allow you to discover the coast from a new angle. 

A short distance from Xpu-Há there is also a small cove that connects with the Manatí Cenote, located between the mangroves. It is a magical area of this part of Mexico, where you will be seduced by nature in its purest state. 

Puerto Morelos is considered the entry point to Riviera Maya, very close to Playa del Carmen and Cancún. It is a perfect place for enjoying the classic beauty of the Caribbean coast: turquoise waters, white sand and the typical charm of the small Mexican fishing villages. 

In this coastal town there are a multitude of attractions so that you will not be bored for a second, with its wonderful beach being more than sufficient for spending a relaxing day by the sea. One of the most attractive activities is the visit to the coral reef, declared as a National Park, which is one of the largest in the world, for observing many colourful fish which swim in its waters. You can also practice watersports such as kayaking and windsurfing. If you prefer attractions on land, you can visit the botanic garden that represents the flora of the area; or if you are looking for more excitement, there is also an ecological protection area for crocodiles for meeting these reptiles up close. There are of course all kinds of establishments for shopping and restaurants for trying the most delicious local dishes. It is a paradise for any visitor seeking a full day of fun! 

Tulum is a fortress on the shores of the Caribbean dating to 1000 AD. This is one of the most beautiful Mayan ruins in the Riviera Maya region. Next to it we find the town of the same name which has in recent years been developed to focus on tourism, thanks to the attraction of the nearby ruins, mainly for backpackers, although we can currently find establishments for all budgets. 

This town is characterised by being organised around the federal road from which it is accessed. Its streets have a colourful, bohemian atmosphere, ideal for those seeking the simple character of the towns far from tourist centres. Tulum is also a great point of departure for visiting the cenotes of the region and other important archaeological remains such as Coba. We also find all kinds of conveniences such as restaurants, vehicle hire, companies that organise excursions, and many shops for purchasing local handicrafts. The town in itself has several cycle lanes that allow easy movement in the surroundings, making hiring a bicycle a great idea if you wish to discover this place in a different way. 

Akumal means “place of turtles”, the name of this enchanting town of the coast of Riviera Maya, which each year receives different species of turtle seeking to nest on its beaches. This is one of the main attractions, but the town is also worth visiting, as few places on this coast are as charming and peaceful as this, being able to maintain its balance with nature. 

Akumal extends in parallel with its beautiful coast, with a few premises dedicated to tourism, especially the restaurants and bars which have the beauty of the Caribbean Sea as a terrace, the best accompaniment for any typical meal from the region. We also find several diving schools that invite you to enter these mysterious waters, but the most impressive experience you can have here is certainly swimming with turtles in their natural habitat. If you simply wish to swim in a different place, in this town we find the Yal-Ku cove, a unique place which is the outlet for underground fresh water, where you will be able to snorkel to discover the multitude of fish which populate these waters. 

Playa del Carmen is the most famous village along the entire Riviera Maya coast, not only for the beauty of its landscape but also for the lively atmosphere that pervades this part of the coast. Formerly a small village, it is now the nerve center of tourism in the region, which is why most of the hotels and resorts along this coast have settled here. Moreover, there are also globally renowned parties and numerous trendy nightclubs. In essence, if you want to party on the Riviera Maya, come to Playa del Carmen!

Just 45 minutes from the airport, Playa del Carmen offers all the luxurious services, and glamour is present in every corner. Here you will find its Fifth Avenue for shopping major brands, and at night, you can enjoy a magnificent dinner in any of the chic restaurants in the area that offer local and international specialties. And of course, to top it all off, you can go dancing in one of the trendy nightclubs or join beach parties.

Puerto Aventuras is a community that has the most comprehensive marina in the whole Yucatán Peninsula and all kinds of services for a great day in Riviera Maya. Just 15 minutes from Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras is the perfect location for those seeking relaxation, or conversely, those who wish to discover the natural wonders of the region on land or at sea. 

Among the facilities that we find in Puerto Aventuras, the golf complex is notable, ideal for those who love this sport, who wish to practice it in a tropical environment. Next to the golf course is Puerto Aventuras Racquet Club, another exclusive place for practicing this sport. There is also the possibility of swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery Puerto Aventuras. 

Its flamboyant marina of course invites you to enjoy a day of sailing, whether on board a sailing boat to discover this coast and its secrets, on a scuba diving excursion in the clear Caribbean waters, or one of the most popular options, deep-sea fishing, a highly recommended activity if you enjoy this sport and wish to have this experience in tropical waters. 

On the Yucatán Peninsula, one of the most important cities, closest to the tourist coast of Riviera Maya is Valladolid, an essential place to visit thanks to its colonial architecture and the delicious typical gastronomy of the region that you can savour in its streets. This place was constructed on the former Mayan ceremonial centre of Zací, but today shows its colonial character in its streets and its seven churches spread throughout the city, whose aesthetic has earned it the nickname “the sultan of the east”. 

Parque Francisco Cantón Rosado is the centre of Valladolid, where the Church of San Servacio is located, but the jewel of this city is the Convent of San Bernardino de la Siena, dating to the 16th century, whose interior contains frescoes from the period, several gardens and even a cenote. However, it is not the only cenote in the city, there being three more (Zací, Dzitnup and Samulá) spread through Valladolid. 

In terms of gastronomy, one of the local dishes which must be sampled is “los lomitas de Valladolid” (meat with tomato and garlic), although we find other specialities of Yucatán such as pickled chicken and oriental turkey. 

Nichupté is a natural ecosystem located at the heart of Cancún, made up of lagoons and mangroves with an area of over three thousand hectares. It is a Protected Natural Area of vital importance for the biodiversity of the region. 

The lagoon contains four types of mangroves: red, black, buttonwood and white. In them, countless wild species, plants and endemic animals live, such as crocodiles, leopard frogs, iguanas and white turtles. 

If you want to discover this natural habitat, it is best to do so on a boat or jet ski. You will have the opportunity to observe some species, especially birds, in their natural habitat. Many vessels cross the mangroves and continue their journey until reaching the coral reefs near Isla Mujeres, ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling. 

In Nichupté you can also carry out other activities, such as sports fishing and kayak routes, and if you are more adventurous, you may wish to try water skiing – it all depends on how much adrenaline you want to feel! If you are travelling with your partner and wish to have a romantic experience, don’t hesitate to take the trip by boat at night. 

Almost 30 kilometres north of Valladolid, at the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, is Ek Balam, meaning “black jaguar” – one of the most attractive archaeological sites in the region. The site is made up of 45 structures surrounded by two walls (originally three), and inside we can find all kinds of buildings which were mainly the residences of the elite. 

This settlement was known as Talol, an important city which dates to 300 BC, although the majority of the buildings correspond to the classical period. The most interesting element is probably its acropolis, as it is the largest building, perfectly preserving the plaster friezes which emulate distant figures. On the inside, we find the tomb of Ukit Kan Le'k Tok'. It is highly recommended to climb to its summit to observe the views. We can also find a Mayan ball game, the Oval Palace, and entrance arch and two twin pyramids. 

Finally, it must be noted that Ek Balam is very important in archaeological terms for the presence of friezes which show the artistic mastery of this civilization. There are few places where such well-preserved remains of this type are found. 

Riviera Maya is more than just idyllic beaches and lush greenery; this region is rich in pre-Columbian sites, the great Coba pyramid is notable, an imposing structure that has stood for over 1000 years, lost in the jungle of the Yucatán Peninsula. Inland, just over 40 kilometres from Tulum, we find this impressive construction which was formerly the centre of a city which in its most glorious period had over 50,000 inhabitants. Part of it has been excavated, but there are still many areas to discover. 

Although it is known as the Coba pyramid, for the name of the city, its true name is Nohoch Mul. It has a total of 120 steps and is 42 metres tall, making it the tallest in the Yucatán Peninsula. It is a very steep construction, which can be ascended to contemplate wonderful views over the jungle. In the area, we also find lakes and other archaeological complexes which can be explored on foot, although there is a cycle rickshaw service that covers transport to the different areas. There are also different street vendor stalls to purchase souvenirs or simply refreshments. 

Chichén Itzá is without a doubt the most emblematic location in Riviera Maya – who hasn’t seen its impressive pyramid on a postcard? It is one of the essential visits on any trip to this region, as it is a sample of what was once the Mayan civilization in all its splendour. It is found just 40 kilometres west of Valladolid. 

These are the best-preserved archaeological remains in the region, with the immense Kukulkán pyramid as the central piece of this complex, which is today considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world. The complex also has two sacred cenotes, a Mayan ball game, the Ossuary Platform, several monumental squares and the thousand-column patio, which lives up to its name. 

In the middle of the Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve, next to the Muyil lagoon, located in the north of the reserve, is the archaeological site of the same name which shows how a town looked in the classical Mayan period. It is a much more humble settlement than that of Chichén Itzá, but no less impressive, as the thickness of the jungle and the nearby lagoon will make the excursion much more interesting. 

Following the marked hiking routes and accompanied by expert local guides, you will be able to observe houses from that period, a small temple hidden among the undergrowth, and the key piece of the visit, the pyramidal castle dedicated to Ixchel, the goddess of fertility, an enormous 17 meters tall structure found in the middle of a jungle clearing. It is said that babies used to be brought to this temple to be blessed by the goddess. The settlement was ultimately abandoned due to drought. 

To complete the visit, it is recommended to take a boat trip on the Muyil lagoon and travel the channels, between mangroves, which connect it with the neighbouring Chunyaxché lagoon. A nice swim in its waters will be a refreshing end to this visit. 

The Sian Ka'an reserve, whose name in Mayan means “place where the sky begins” is a protected natural space located on the Caribbean coast in Quintana Roo, Mexico, declared as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage site. 

At the south of Quintana Roo we find this 500 thousand hectare protected natural area in its purest state. The area combines jungle, cenotes, beaches, dunes and mangroves, and as a result, a wide variety of plants and animals which have made this varied ecosystem their home. Birds are especially prominent with over 300 native species, and on the coast the green turtle and leatherback turtle find their ideal place to nest. 

Its great extension offers several ways to visit it. A very interesting option is to visit the Muyil Mayan ruins on foot, at the heart of the reserve, from which there is an interpretative hike that leads to the enormous Chunyaxché lagoon. Another option is taking a boat excursion to travel the wetlands and discover the curious mangroves up close. You should also visit the beach where some small establishments offer snacks and drinks for you to enjoy by the sea. 

In the Caribbean Sea, 20 minutes by boat from Cancún, there are small paradises such as Isla Mujeres, an incredible natural environment with clear waters and splendid marine life, which is a perfect excuse for a trip by sea. This island is just 500 metres wide and 7.5 kilometres long, but with many activities to carry out. Normally, the main attraction is scuba diving, as the underwater fauna is truly diverse, particularly with dolphins and turtles, and with this island also preserving this beloved species in the renowned Tortugranja turtle farm. 

If you prefer to relax and enjoy some tourism, any of the beaches of this island will be the ideal place, with one of the cabins that offer a delicious menu and refreshing drinks so that you don’t have to worry about anything more than enjoying the landscape. Playa Norte is one of the natural jewels of this island with crystal clear waters and marvellous sunsets for practicing snorkelling and kayaking. 

You can also take a walk around the charming fishing village located in the north, visit the ruins of the area dedicated to the Mayan fertility goddess Ixchel, and discover the mysteries of the Hacienda Mundaca. So many things to do in such a small area! 

Cozumel, whose name means “the island of the swallows”, is the third largest island in Mexico and has the privilege of being located on the coast of Riviera Maya, just 18 kilometres away. 

To reach Cozumel you must take a ferry from Playa del Carmen, which will arrive in just forty minutes. It is also possible to reach it by aeroplane as it has an international airport. Once on land, in the largest city, San Miguel de Cozumel, we find a place with a lot of tourism for taking a pleasant walk through the harbour and buying a souvenir. 

The island has a steep, windswept coast, and it is therefore recommended to visit the most sheltered beaches of the west coast such as Playa Palancar, while the east coast is kept more unspoilt, but with stronger winds. Along the coast, we also find resorts which encourage relaxation. 

For those who wish to experience nature in its pure form, the Celarain Lighthouse, located at the southernmost point of the island is an impressive Nature Reserve for admiring the native flora and fauna of this island and for visiting its different ecosystems. Additionally, there are also very interesting Mayan archaeological sites to visit, specifically El Cedral, where the Spanish established the first Christian heritage, and the ruins of San Gervasio, an ancient sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Ixchel. 

Scuba diving is the star activity, thanks to the beautiful reefs that surround the island. The varied fauna that can be observed here is the greatest attraction for scuba divers from around the world. A very good place for doing so is the Chankanaab Reserve where there are excursions to the reefs and where you can snorkel in its large inland lagoon, among other activities. 

One of the great privileges of Riviera Maya, scattered throughout its landscape, are the hundreds of cenotes that give it a unique character. Cenotes are pits or caves which lead to rivers and underground lagoons, thereby creating underground complexes which are very attractive to those who love scuba diving. Depending on their size, it is possible to visit them and even swim, and this is probably one of the most original activities you can carry out in Riviera Maya. 

Among all of these cenotes, the Gran Cenote is notable, just over three kilometres from Tulum, a great tropical place for swimming in the jungle. Here the crystal-clear waters are lit by the natural light of the exterior, perfect for practicing snorkelling and investigating the depths that reach ten metres or simply admiring the curious stalactites and stalagmites. 

Another nearby cenote in the same region of Tulum is the Dos Ojos Cenote, but in this case, it is an excursion only suitable for the most intrepid. This place is characterised by forming part of a complex of over 60 kilometres of underwater caves (one of the largest in the world), but the Dos Ojos Cenote is just a small section which owes its name to the two pools which lead outside, connected by a 400-metre tunnel. Here, beyond swimming, you can cross these galleries full of stalactites and stalagmites and see fish in the water. These excursions offer all equipment and are carried out in small groups of four people, accompanied by a guide. The clarity of the warm waters makes this trip very pleasant; even more so if it is in such an extraordinary place as this underground cave. 

In its day, Xcaret was an old Mayan harbour for merchandise, which has today been converted into a theme park for discovering the essence of Mexico in an ecological, environmentally friendly way. It is very easy to find, as it is located a few kilometres to the south of Playa del Carmen. To access it, you will have to pay the entrance fee, which varies depending on the services that you wish to include. 

Here you can have a full Mexican experience, in natural and cultural terms, as the attractions are focused on showing the best of this country. In the morning, it is recommended to visit the jungle area to discover all kinds of animals and typical plants of the region, which in many cases have been rescued. One of the most authentic areas is the butterfly farm, an impressive spectacle to visit. In the land area, we also find different restaurants for enjoying local gastronomy, and there are also various archaeological replicas for learning more about Mayan history. 

If we visit its impressive cove, we also find all kinds of water activities. Here, snorkelling trips can be taken, visiting the incredible coral aquarium in its natural habitat, swimming in underground rivers, visiting the island of the jaguars, or simply swimming. In all cases you will be able to appreciate the flora and fauna of Riviera Maya in natural surroundings. 

A total of 50 attractions will enliven this experience, but one of the most impressive is certainly “Xcaret México espectacular” the definitive show which serves to exhibit Mexican folklore and tradition, considered Intangible World Heritage by UNESCO and with the most notable historic moments of the Mayan civilisation thanks to the performance of over 300 artists. Thousands of surprises in one place! 

Playa del Carmen is the tourist centre of Riviera Maya, and it is no surprise that here we find Quinta Avenida, which has the most glamourous places in the region for shopping or just having a drink and dinner in a unique Caribbean atmosphere. Of course, as in the rest of Playa del Carmen, Quinta Avenida is a unique place for spending an unforgettable night partying. 

Quinta Avenida is the longest pedestrian street running along the coast parallel to Playa del Carmen. During the day, this place is ideal for going shopping, from simple souvenirs to the leading brands of the fashion sector and even top-class designers. 

In the same street, we also find crowded areas such as Plaza de los Fundadores and the Chapel of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, places where you do not need to go shopping to enjoy the avenue. Once you reach the intersection with Calle 12, the party begins: small bars for enjoying a drink, nightclubs with several floors for dancing to electronic music, and simple establishments for spending some time until the early morning. This is the range of establishments found in this part of Quinta Avenida. 

We also find inconspicuous places for enjoying the gastronomy of this country. This is the case of Calle Corazón, accessed from Quinta Avenida, where we find charming restaurants, art galleries and cafés for refined tastes. As you can see, Quinta Avenida has everything necessary for spending an enjoyable day in Playa del Carmen without having to change location. 

Tulum is one of the areas of Riviera Maya where natural beauty and the Mayan past are combined to offer one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the Caribbean. The ancient ruins are located on cliffs over a beautiful tropical beach, this gorgeous location chosen by the Mayans for erecting a temple dedicated to the god of the wind. The city was formerly known by the name Zamá, which means dawn in Mayan. 

These ruins correspond to an ancient walled city whose splendour dates to 1000 AD. The archaeological region is located in the Tulum National Park, a vast extension of forests and mangroves of unique beauty which are home to different species of flora and fauna. It is the only ruin preserved on the beach and is probably one of the most attractive places in the whole Mexican landscape. Immerse yourself in the ancient history of the Mayans by visiting this unique location and enjoy the view you obtain by swimming on its beach.  

A unique experience!