Visiting Cancún: what are the best things to do and see in Cancún?
As a popular tourist destination on Mexico‘s Yucatán Peninsula, Cancún is considered a tropical paradise, with its magnificent beaches, coral reefs, water sports and lively nightlife. Visiting Cancún is ideal for sunbathing and relaxing. However, it’s by exploring the rest of Yucatán that you can really enjoy your Mexican adventure through Mayan archaeological sites, stunning natural wonders, theme parks and other once-in-a-lifetime discoveries. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Cancún.
1. Chichén Itzá
Flickr – Juan Salmoral
A visit to Cancún wouldn’t be complete without a day trip to Chichén Itzá, one of Mexico’s most visited sites. Dating from between 750 and 1200 AD, Chichén Itzá was an important religious, commercial and political center during the Maya civilization. The remains here bear witness to the Maya’s impressive knowledge of architecture and astronomy. Not-to-be-missed structures include El Castillo, a remarkable pyramid dedicated to the feathered serpent god (Kukulkan), the Temple of Warriors, the large ball court, the Wall of Skulls, the Observatory and the Sacred Cenote.
2. Isla Mujeres
Flickr – Roberto Ventre
One of the most popular things to do in Cancún, Isla Mujeres is a small island just 8 kilometers long. With white sand and shallow waters, the island’s beaches are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing. Nature lovers can enjoy a visit to thetortugranja (turtle farm), a hatchery and sanctuary for endangered sea turtles. History buffs can visit the Mayan ruins at Punta Sura and the beautiful 19th-century Hacienda Mundaca, built by a Caribbean pirate. Towards the southern tip of the island, there’s also a highly original museum to discover: the MUSA, an underwater museum.
3. Tulum
Flickr – miquitos
Tulum is a famous excursion from Cancún, both for its Mayan remains and for having one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Once an important commercial and ceremonial center, the Mayan ruins of Tulum are made up of several different structures that make for an interesting visit. The remains are perched on a cliff overlooking a picturesque beach of white sand and blue-green water. A favorite with photographers, the beach is also a favorite with divers and kitesurfers. Close to the ruins and the beach is the Cenotes Park, where you can explore some of the world’s most incredible caves and cenotes.
4. Xel-Ha Natural Park
Flickr – Jeff
A veritable natural aquarium, Xel-Ha is an ecological park featuring small coves, lagoons, wells and caverns home to the Caribbean’s most beautiful aquatic species. Exciting activities abound here, including swimming with dolphins, petting manta rays and cliff jumping. In addition, you can hike along jungle trails, stroll through tropical gardens, feed fish from a floating bridge and visit a sacred Mayan cenote home to exotic birds and beautiful orchids. An excursion to Xel-Ha is often coupled with a visit to nearby Tulum.
5. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
Flickr – Valerie Hukalo
Representing one of the most impressive excursions on the Yucatán Peninsula, Sian Ka’an is a large nature reserve, home to hundreds of species of animals and birds, as well as magnificent landscapes. Here, you can kayak through the wetlands, walk along the boardwalks and wade in the crystal-clear water of the lagoons to encounter egrets, sea turtles, tropical fish, crocodiles and much more… You’ll also experience fly-fishing, snorkeling and bird-watching. What’s more, there are over 20 archaeological sites located in this reserve, including the ruins of Muyil, an ancient Mayan trading center.
6. Xcaret Eco Park
Flickr – Victor Romero Valladares
Located in an enchanting setting, Xcaret is a private amusement park featuring an underground river, beaches, a coral reef aquarium and even several Mayan ruins. Activities include swimming with dolphins, snorkeling near a coral reef and a walk through a reconstructed Mayan village. In addition, you can take a safari around an islet populated by jaguars, walk through a butterfly pavilion, explore a bat cave and watch a pre-Hispanic ball game. Don’t miss the enchanting music and dance show, which takes you on a folkloric journey through Mexico’s history from Mayan times to the present day.
7. Cozumel Island
Flickr – Cristopher Gonzalez
Miles of beaches, crystal-clear waters and coral reefs make Cozumel Island Mexico’s leading diving and snorkeling spot. This idyllic spot also offers other water-based activities such as deep-sea fishing, surfing, kitesurfing and glass-bottom boat excursions. Because it was once considered a sacred place by the Mayans, Cozumel also offers several interesting archaeological sites such as San Gervasio and El Caracol. Another popular attraction on the island is Chankanaab National Park, which boasts beaches, hiking trails, an aquarium, a botanical garden and a large iguana population.
8. Swim with whale sharks
Flickr – Dtraveller Cancun
A trip to Cancun gives you the chance to swim with the world’s largest fish. Put your fear of sharks to rest right away: the whale shark is non-aggressive. From May to September, the waters along the Yucatán coast attract a large population of whale sharks in search of fish eggs and plankton. From Cancún to the islands to the north of the city, such as Isla Mujeres, Holbox or Isla Contoy, you can book a day trip by boat to swim with the gentle giants or simply watch them from the deck. Underwater, you’ll also have the chance to see dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles and tropical fish.
How to get to Cancun
Cancun International Airport is Mexico’s second busiest airport after Mexico City. Numerous airlines serve Cancun daily. You can find a cheap flight to Cancun on the website of our partner Ulysses.
Where to sleep in Cancún
There are a multitude of accommodation options in Cancún. From the city center to Isla Mujeres, you’re spoilt for choice. There’s no shortage of hotels in Cancún, and you can find the best-value hotels on this hotel comparison site.
Map of hotels and accommodations – Cancún,mx