Located in the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun boasts scenic turquoise seas, Mayan archaeological sites, nature reserves, all-inclusive resorts, and theme parks.
An ever-popular destination with abundant natural beauty, ancient Mayan culture, water sports and adventure, international cuisine, sophisticated spa facilities and handcraft markets – either way, indulge. Here is a list of epic must-do activities for your next Cancun visit to guarantee you a memorable holiday.
1. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Visit the incredible Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve located in Tulum and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. Sian Ka’an is the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean with over 1 million acres to explore. The reserve is home to the 2nd largest coral reef that sustains marine life. It is sublimely meditative and will be a special hit for the environmentally conscious traveller who wants a peaceful excursion away from crowds. It tells the story of massive success in conservation and sustainability over the years.
2. Day Trip to Tulum
Travel through time and discover enigmatic Tulum. Jump in for a refreshing swim in Cenote Chaak Tun and enjoy the breathtaking views of Maya City from an elevated position. The ancient ruins are said to be the best preserved coastal Mayan ruins in Mexico.
3. Charter a Yacht
It’s highly recommended that you rent a boat to explore Cancun at your own pace. There are many reliable and well-serviced yachts that dock in Puerto Cancun. You can visit the appealing island of Isla Mujeres, which will be the highlight of your sailing trip with its crystal clear beaches and abundance of marine life visible in the area.
4. Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is another exceptionally well preserved Mayan archaeological sites. It was popular back in the 5th century AD it was a thriving city for the Mayans. Today you can visit for a relaxing day trip and learn more about this interesting ancient civilisation. Chichen Itza buildings and pyramids are still standing today and show the fusion between the Mayan and Mexican infrastructure.
5. The Cenote Pool
Take a fun ATV ride or a hike through the tropical jungle to discover the mystical Mayan cenote pool. The cenote is a well of fresh water that was believed to be the portal to the underworld by the ancient cultures. Cenotes are abundant in Cancun. Check out cenote Zuci or cenote Dos Ojos in Tulum.
6. Zipline over the Jungle
Get your adrenaline rushing in Cancun. Join a Zipline Outdoor Adventure over the tropical Yucatan jungle. Cancun zip lines above the trees to ensure that there is no disturbance to the natural habitats. This is a truly memorable experience.
7. Explore the Underwater Museum
The museum is called MUSA or “Museo Subacuático de Arte’’ by the locals. The Cancún Underwater Museum is a non-profit organisation that is working to achieve art conservation in Mexico. Discover the beauty of this incredible underwater sculpture garden. This is not your typical museum experience though as you scuba dive or snorkel there.
8. Enjoy a Picturesque Day at Las Coloradas
The pink lakes are popular with photographers and social media lovers. These salty lakes get their colour from red-coloured algae and plankton that thrive in the saltwater. It’s become overcrowded since hitting the Instapics, but we still highly recommend a visit. Early October when the water levels are low is the best time to visit because the water will be exceptionally pink.
9. Visit Downtown Cancun
Live like the locals and visit downtown Cancun to shop for souvenirs. Here you will find many shops unique to Mexico. Taste real Mexican food by grabbing a bite at one of the many street food stalls. Downtown Cancun is amazing with various manicured gardens and parks. Be sure to grab yourself a real Mexican Burrito.
10. Visit Playa Mure
Escape into a luxurious secluded location at the Playa Mujeres Resort. Playa Mujeres is within a world-famous 18-hole signature Greg Norman golf course. Mujeres offers a romantic escape for couples and exquisite family bonding time. When you check into this resort, you will have everything you can ever desire at your doorstep. An array of dining options and daily entertainment is available for the whole family.
