The Riviera Maya
After the amazing success of the Cancún, it was natural that all the shoreline of the Mexican Caribbean would attract the interest of international developers. Starting with Cancún southwards to Tulum, the Riviera Maya offers the most amazing and diverse vacation destination in the world. This privileged enclave is traversed by the 100-mile (160 km) Highway 307 that runs parallel to the sea. It is dotted by myriad landmarks such as pristine white-sand beaches, fresh water cenotes (natural sinkholes), charming towns and mystical Maya sites...all surrounded by the lush tropical jungle. The Riviera Maya offers the opportunity to enjoy nature at its best while you learn about one of the planet's most ancient and enigmatic civilizations. Lodging is available throughout the area to suit every taste and budget, with a selection of rustic cabanas, small quaint hotels and luxurious waterfront developments. |
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Cancun
Cancún, a growing city and world-renowned tourist destination, is located on the Yucatán peninsula in Mexico's southern state of Quintana Roo. The city of Cancún comprises two distinct areas: the Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone), a slender ribbon of an island that is bordered by the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Nichupté Lagoon on the other; and El Centro (Downtown), on the mainland, originally a workers' village for those laboring in the Hotel Zone.
Cancun's International Airport is the Mayan Riviera gateway for direct and charter flights from major capitals from all around the world, mainly from the US and Canada. It's convenient geographic location allows 4 hour flights from Los Angeles or New York, and 2 to 3 hour flights from most southern and center states. |
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Puerto Morelos
22 miles (36 kilometers) south of Cancun is the tranquil fishing town of Puerto Morelos, with its beautiful beaches and an offshore reef that is great for diving and snorkeling.
The town features all the basic amenities such as restaurants, gift shops, a pharmacy, grocery and liquor stores, money exchange facilities; as well as offering services like car rentals, scuba shops, travel agencies, a gas station and small, inexpensive hotels. |
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Playa del Carmen
Just 68 kilometers (41 mi.) from Cancún, Playa del Carmen (or Playa) has some of the finest beaches and coral reefs on the coast, with accommodations that range from five-star quality to rustic. Playa's pedestrian walkway is lined with shops, boutiques and a wide variety of restaurants. |
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Xcaret
Situated seventy-two kilometers (45 mi.) south of Cancún is the entrance to Xcaret, a privately-owned eco-archaeological park. It features an archaeological site thought to be the vestiges of the Maya port of Polé. Other attractions include some cenotes (natural sinkholes), a beautiful natural inlet-which is perfect for swimming and snorkeling-, dolphins, an aviary, a tropical aquarium, butterfly pavilion, and a museum. Stay for the Xcaret at Night show. |
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Puerto Aventuras
Nestled beside a lovely stretch of dazzlingly white beach is Puerto Aventuras, 98 kilometers (60 mi.) south of Cancún. Its sea is clear, calm and perfect for swimming. Deserted stretches easily reached on foot. This 900-acre development features hotels, condominiums, restaurants, shops, full-services marina, dive center, nautical museum and an 18-hole golf course. |
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Akumal
Akumal, located 102 km (approximately 64 mile) south of Cancún, is right on the shores of a tranquil bay with clear, shallow water that is perfect for snorkeling. There are several hotels, restaurants and shops. Snorkeling and diving trips to the offshore reefs (considered some of the finest in the area) are offered by many waterfront dive operations. Fishing trips are also available. |
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Hidden Worlds
Venture into the most beautiful cenotes (natural sinkholes) where you can snorkel or go cave diving; the jungle snorkel includes swimming, snorkeling and a jungle hike. Tours include guide, transportation and snorkeling gear.
All the activities are suitable for the whole family.
Hidden worlds offers restaurant service, and is located 30 minutes south of Playa del Carmen.
Chetumal - Cancún highway 307, km 243. |
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Aktun Chen
Come see the five-million-year-old cave system of Aktun-Chen. Located a 107-kilometer (64 mi.) drive south of Cancún, this grotto is the only known extensive, above-water-level cave system that has been discovered in the eastern part of the Yucatán peninsula. Visitors can tour its ancient stalagmites and stalactites with the aid of a bilingual, informed guide, who explains the process through which the caves were formed.
Located two kilometers west of the Cancún-Tulum Highway, at km 107. |
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Xel Ha
In Xel-Há National Park, located 122 kilometers (76 mi.) south of Cancún, nature has created incredible caves, inlets and lagoons.
Fish from the Caribbean take refuge in the placid waters of Xel-Há, where freshwater from nearby streams mixes with the ocean. Snorkelers can mingle with the multi-colored, brilliant fish. The park also offers all modern amenities and services. |
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Tulum
The impressive cliff-top archaeological site of Tulum (131 km/86 mi south of Cancún), dating from the Maya Post-Classic period (A.D. 900-1512), is one of the most famous landmarks in the Maya World. It commands spectacular views of the Quintana Roo coast. Bring your bathing suit for a swim after visiting the archaeological site. |
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