Riviera Maya Travel & Vacation Guide

Recommended by the National Geographic Society as one of the Top 10 Best and Most Impressive Underground Walkways in the World, does the Aktun Chen National Park need further introduction? This picturesque rainforest park features an underground river perfect for swimming, along with a zipline and opportunities for cave exploration. Considered sacred by the ancient Maya, these mystical freshwater pools offer a serene and magical experience.

For a thrilling yet leisurely exploration of the Riviera Maya, visit Chikin Ha, an eco-park that promises unforgettable adventures. Swim in cenotes with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, take a tranquil bike ride into the serene jungle or, if you're feeling adventurous, zip-line through the lush canopy.

Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a must-visit for any traveller exploring the Yucatán Peninsula. This ancient Mayan city, renowned for its impressive architecture and historical significance, offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era. At its heart stands the iconic El Castillo pyramid, also known as the Temple of Kukulcán, showcasing the Mayans' advanced knowledge of astronomy and engineering. Visitors can explore expansive ruins and discover remarkable structures such as the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court, and the Observatory, each telling a story of the Mayan civilisation's rich culture and scientific achievements.

Cirque du Soleil Joyà in Playa del Carmen offers an extraordinary experience that combines jaw-dropping acrobatics, captivating storytelling, and gourmet dining in an intimate theatre setting. This unique show takes you on a whimsical journey through a lush jungle, where vibrant characters and stunning visuals come to life. As the first Cirque du Soleil resident show in Mexico, Joyà is a must-see attraction for travellers seeking an unforgettable night of entertainment and enchantment.

The Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park is a diver's and snorkeller's paradise, showcasing the island's most celebrated underwater treasures. It features renowned dive sites such as the Palancar, Columbia, and Paradise reefs, where you can explore stunning coral formations and encounter an array of marine life. Dive into the dramatic Devil’s Throat at Punta Sur or discover the historic Felipe Xicoténcatl shipwreck, a WWII minesweeper now home to an impressive array of sea creatures. With up to 26 species of coral and 300 species of fish, the park offers an unforgettable underwater adventure in one of the Caribbean's most spectacular marine environments.

Croco Cun is an interactive zoo where visitors can get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including crocodiles, monkeys, snakes, and parrots.

The Monkey Sanctuary in Akumal is not a traditional zoo, but truly a safe place where rescued animals are well taken care of and protected. Join a tour to get fascinating insights into more than 50 rescued species, including primates, macaws, and snakes. Visitors can also participate in bonding programmes with these incredible creatures, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of wildlife—an ideal experience for families with kids.

Río Secreto offers a fascinating journey through a natural crystal museum, where dramatic stalactite and stalagmite formations reveal the geological history of the Earth. This magical adventure includes hiking and swimming excursions along a turquoise underground river, allowing visitors to explore the mystical beauty of the Mayan underworld.

Batey is a lively venue serving up local bites and cheap drinks, with an unbeatable atmosphere that captures the heart of Tulum. This vibrant spot boasts a beer garden where you can enjoy a drink or two — and by drink, we mean their famous mojitos, which give Havana a run for their money — fresh 'guarapo' (sugarcane juice) that you can help press from a little station set up in an old Volkswagen Beetle, and last but not least, live music. If your stomach starts to growl, be sure to order their delicious shrimp burritos, a big hit among patrons.

Coco Bongo redefines nightlife with its unique blend of Cirque du Soleil, concert, theatre, and disco, offering an unforgettable night of entertainment. Instead of the usual dance floor and DJ, this vibrant venue dazzles with musical performances featuring talented local artists impersonating famous celebrities, while trapeze artists and dancers deliver jaw-dropping acrobatics. With its top-notch production, excellent music selection, and cutting-edge technology, Coco Bongo promises a spectacular show that leaves audiences with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

La Bodeguita del Medio will transport you to Cuba's heyday with its enticing atmosphere, the best Mojito in Playa del Carmen, and its infectious salsa rhythms that fill the air, inviting you to let your hair down and have a memorable night.

Mandala is a popular bar in the heart of Playa del Carmen, where the attractive Asian decor immerses you in an oriental atmosphere full of mystery and glamour. Dance the night away on the ground floor, where DJs mix the latest pop and techno tunes, or head to the mezzanine for a vibrant party scene. For a more relaxed vibe, the open-air terrace on the top floor offers a perfect spot to enjoy a drink and chill out under the stars.

Mistico Tulum is a vibrant bar and lounge that pulses with electrifying energy and infectious vibes, perfect for travelers seeking a lively nightlife experience. Dance to the rhythms of Afro beats, soca, and hip hop while savouring exotic cocktails under the starlit sky. The eclectic cuisine and flavourful hookah add to the allure, making Mistico Tulum a must-visit destination for an unforgettable evening in Tulum.

Señor Frog's is a bar and grill chain known for its festive atmosphere, tasty food, gigantic drinks, and lots of singing and dancing. So, join the conga line and make the best out of your time here.

A never-ending supply of cocktails paired with freshly cooked food and the enchanting waterfront view all amount to the winning formula of Thirsty Cougar.

Wet Wendy's is an institution on Cozumel when it comes to delicious food, frozen cocktails—they're known for serving the giant Margaritas on the island—, and entertainment. From rock to jazz to salsa nights, only positive vibes are accepted in the house.

Mexicarte, with locations in both Akumal and Tulum, is a vibrant destination for unique Mexican arts and crafts. In Tulum, you’ll find two distinct shops: one centrally located and another, specialising in textiles and clothing, about 35 minutes south of the city. Both locations offer an eclectic mix of pottery, sculpture, housewares, jewellery, and colourful Mexican skulls. While the prices are a bit on the higher side, the unique and high-quality gifts make Mexicarte a must-visit for those seeking to take home a piece of authentic Mexican artistry.

Paseo del Carmen is an upscale, open-air complex featuring a variety of international retailers and a couple of eateries. Stroll through its scenic pathways, and enjoy a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that captures the essence of Playa del Carmen.

Located just off the cruise ship docks, Plaza Punta Langosta is an elegant, open-air shopping mall providing everything a traveller could need in one stylish and convenient location.

Quinta Avenida, or Fifth Avenue, in Playa del Carmen, is a shopper’s paradise brimming with vibrant energy and eclectic charm. This bustling pedestrian-only street runs parallel to the ocean in downtown Playa del Carmen and offers an array of shopping experiences—from high-end boutiques and designer shops to quirky local stores and buzzing markets. Wander along the avenue to discover everything from stylish clothing and unique souvenirs to handcrafted jewellery and art.

The Mayan Cacao Company offers a fascinating journey into the origins of chocolate, set in the very land of its creators, the Mayas. This high-quality chocolate shop features artisanal bars crafted from cacao beans meticulously selected by Mayan farmers in the Yucatán Peninsula and expertly blended by their Belgian Master Chocolatier. Visitors can delve deeper with an interesting tour that explores the rich history of Maya culture and the significance of chocolate in their society. The tour also includes a live chocolate-making demonstration followed by cacao tastings.

The best time to visit the Riviera Maya is between November and April when the weather is warm and dry, ideal for exploring the region's stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant marine life. During these months, you'll find pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Accommodation prices are generally higher during the peak winter season, especially around the holidays, but the trade-off is a lively atmosphere and a wealth of events and festivals.

Citizens from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and most European Union countries can enter Mexico without a visa. Other nations that also enjoy visa-free access are visitors from Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. However, nationals from some countries do need a visa to visit Mexico. Notable examples include citizens from India, China, Russia, South Africa, and the Philippines. With such a diverse range of entry policies, it's always advisable for travellers to check the latest requirements with their local Mexican embassy or consulate before planning their trip.

The main airport serving the Riviera Maya is Cancun International Airport (CUN). It is located about 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen and roughly an hour from Tulum. From the Cancun International Airport, there are several transportation options to reach Playa del Carmen and Tulum. For Playa del Carmen, you can choose from shared shuttles, which are economical and convenient or private shuttles for a more direct and comfortable journey. You can book these in advance through various travel companies or directly at the airport. The company ADO operates a direct bus service from the airport to Playa del Carmen. The buses are frequent and offer a reliable option. Taxis are readily available at the airport but pricier. Other options include renting a car or ride-sharing services like Uber, though their availability can vary. For Tulum, shared shuttles are also available and can be booked in advance, though they may take longer due to multiple stops. Private shuttles offer a more direct route and can be booked ahead of time. ADO provides a cost-effective bus service, although you’ll need to transfer from the airport to their terminal in Cancun. Taxis to Tulum are also costly. Ride-sharing services like Uber may be an option, though they can be unreliable.

The island of Cozumel is served by Cozumel International Airport, which handles both international and domestic flights. Travellers can reach the city centre by taxis and shuttle vans, both private and shared, as well as private minibuses, which have a capacity of 4-10 passengers. Car rental companies are also present at the airport for those who prefer to drive. When hailing a taxi, ensure you have Mexican pesos or US dollars, as many taxi drivers do not accept credit cards.

There are a couple of ways to travel around the Riviera Maya: Colectivos: these shared minivans, known as 'colectivos', are a popular choice for shorter trips along the main highway between Cancún and Tulum. They run all day and can be flagged down at the side of Highway 307. There is no fixed timetable, so patience is a virtue. In Playa del Carmen, you can catch them at the colectivo stand located at 2nd Street between 15th and 20th Avenue. Do be aware that these vans can be quite full during rush hours, making it a bit challenging to find a spot. For longer journeys, the ADO bus company offers a reliable and comfortable service connecting major destinations like Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. These buses are popular among tourists for their convenience and affordability.

In the Riviera Maya, taxis are available 24 hours a day and offer a convenient way to navigate the region. While taxis are relatively easy to find, especially around popular tourist spots, they can be a bit pricey compared to local transport options. Unfortunately, ride-sharing apps like Uber do not operate extensively in this region, so it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey to avoid any surprises. Make sure to carry small bills or the correct amount as change is difficult sometimes.

For Mexico, there are two associated plug types, types A and B. Plug type A is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and plug type B is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. The country operates on a 127V supply voltage and 60Hz.

Some of the main pharmacy chains found in the Riviera Maya include Farmacias del Ahorro, a well-known pharmacy chain throughout Mexico, Farmacias Similares, and Farmacias YZA, to name but a few.