Cancun Travel guide - All you need to know

Everything you need to know

Location

The city of Cancun is located on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, on the eastern coast of Quintana Roo. There are beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife in Cancun, making it a popular tourist destination. Millions of tourists visit Cancun each year.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Cancun is also home to a number of cultural and historical sites. The Mayan ruins of Tulum, located just a short drive from Cancun, are a must-see for any visitor to the region. Thousands of years ago, the Mayan people inhabited the Yucatán Peninsula, so these ancient ruins offer a glimpse into their history and culture. Finally, Cancun is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The city is home to a number of clubs, bars, and restaurants that stay open late, providing visitors with a wide variety of entertainment options. There is something for everyone in Cancun, whether it's live music, dancing, or just relaxing and having a drink.

Weather

weather is fantastic most all year round with temperatures between 67º F to 90º F during the whole year. The best time to visit is from January through April, since the humidity levels are low, which makes it great for a perfect tan on the beaches or to go explore the Cenotes in the jungle.

Winter and Spring (January to April):

This is peak season for a reason! Enjoy sunny days, perfect beach weather, and lower humidity. It's ideal for exploring the jungle and cenotes too. Just be prepared for higher prices and crowds.

Late Spring and Summer (May to August):

Get ready for warmer temperatures and higher humidity. It's the rainy season, but there are still plenty of sunny days. This is when you can spot sea turtles and whale sharks. However, seaweed can be an issue on some beaches.

Fall (September to November):

Enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds, but be aware it's hurricane season. You might experience rain and storms, but if you don't mind the risk, you can find some great deals.

Early Winter (December):

This is a nice compromise: pleasant weather, fewer crowds than the peak season, and the start of holiday festivities.

Entry requirements and procedures

Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry.

Tourist Card (FMM):

Upon arrival, travelers receive a tourist card (Forma Migratoria Múltiple, or FMM) that they must keep for the duration of their stay and return upon departure. This card allows tourists to stay in Mexico for up to 180 days. This FMM form could also be filled out and submitted electronically. more information in this blog.

Traffic Light System:

The mention of a "traffic light" system where you press a button and the displayed light determines whether your luggage will be inspected is not uncommon. However, the specific procedures and systems may vary by airport.

No Visa Requirement: For short tourist stays (up to 180 days), US citizens do not need a visa to enter Mexico.

Transportation

Getting around Cancun is straightforward. The city's bus system is efficient and affordable, with buses running frequently along the main tourist routes, including the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancun. These buses are a great way to travel between the beaches, shopping centers, and popular attractions. For shorter distances or a more personalized experience, taxis are abundant and can be hailed on the street or booked through your hotel. It’s helpful to carry small change for bus fares and always check taxi rates beforehand.

For those looking to explore beyond the immediate vicinity, renting a car or using ride-sharing services like Uber can provide greater freedom. Car rentals are ideal for day trips to nearby destinations such as Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or the cenotes scattered throughout the Yucatán Peninsula. Alternatively, organized tours and excursions often include transportation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about directions or parking. Whether you prefer the convenience of public transport, the flexibility of a rental car, or the ease of guided tours, Cancun offers a variety of transportation options to enhance your travel experience.

Cancun, a paradise in the Mexican Caribbean, is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. But this tourist destination has much more to offer than just sun and beach. If you're wondering what to do in Cancun or looking for fun activities, you've come to the right place.

In this guide, we show you the best tours and activities in Cancun so you can enjoy your trip to the fullest. Get ready to explore the best that Cancun has to offer, from exciting adventures to fascinating cultural experiences.

In Cancun, you can see colorful fish, explore the jungle, learn about the Mayans, and enjoy the nightlife. There is something for everyone! Discover why Cancun is one of the most visited destinations in the world and get ready to live unforgettable memories.

Cancun is the ideal place for adventure lovers. Here you can live fun experiences amidst amazing natural landscapes. The tour options in Cancun are diverse and offer adrenaline and fun for all ages.

Rainforest Exploration

Discover the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a place full of exotic animals and plants. It is perfect for those who enjoy ecotourism. You can tour the jungle on all-terrain vehicles, kayak through its canals or walk along trails surrounded by tropical vegetation. It is an adventure that will connect you with nature.

Xplor Adventure: Excitement in Playa del Carmen

Come and enjoy the adventure at Xplor, the most exciting park in Playa del Carmen! Feel the excitement on the fourteen zip lines, including the highest one in the destination, and enjoy the views over the jungle. Drive an amphibious vehicle (ATV) through the jungle, crossing bridges and exploring caves. Raft along rivers of stalactites and swim in crystal clear waters.

Discover the secrets hidden beneath the earth. This experience will allow you to enjoy nature and challenge your limits. Don't miss this incredible adventure at Xplor! For more information and reservations, visit our blog: Adventure in Xplor.

Kayaking in the Nichupté lagoon

Imagine gliding gently through the calm waters of the Nichupté lagoon, surrounded by lush mangroves and the serene beauty of Cancun. This activity will allow you to explore the surroundings of the Solaris hotels from a unique perspective, enjoying nature and local wildlife.

The Nichupté lagoon is a protected ecosystem, home to a wide variety of birds and marine life. Kayaking will allow you to appreciate the flora and fauna of this natural environment.

Zip lines at Xplor Park

Feel the thrill of flying over the jungle on exciting zip lines. The park in Cancun Xplor Park also offers tours in amphibious vehicles and rafting in underground rivers. Ziplines allow you to enjoy incredible views as you glide through the air. Additionally, you can explore caves and underground rivers by swimming or rowing.

Extreme canopy

Before you know it, you'll be high up in a tree with the jungle at your feet. Your heart will beat strongly and adrenaline will flow as you begin the flight on the first of the 10 world-class zip lines we have. The last zip line is for you to decide if you prefer to finish dry or get soaked in our new AquaZip! Next, take on Tarzania, the unique Zipline Coaster.

This is definitely the best zip line tour in Cancun. Once your feet are back on the ground, it's time to head into the jungle on a safari bus. Your destination: our own private cenote. This natural waterhole is the perfect way to cool off and have maximum fun!

For more information, visit our blog: Best Zip Line Tour in Cancun.

Swim in Natural Cenotes

Immerse yourself in cenotes, natural pools surrounded by green vegetation. These refreshing freshwater oases offer a unique experience in the middle of the jungle. You can swim, dive and snorkel in cenotes such as Cenote Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote, enjoying the clarity and freshness of the water.

Tour Tulum, cenote y playa del carmen

Embark on an unforgettable tour and explore Tulum, one of the most important archaeological zones of the Mayan culture! Admire the impressive ruins located next to the beautiful Caribbean Sea and its white sand beaches. Immerse yourself in the crystalline waters of the semi-open cenote, a refreshing oasis that will leave you amazed.

After the historical and natural adventure, enjoy 2 hours of free time on the famous 5th Avenue of Playa del Carmen. Here you can walk, shop and taste delicious dishes in the best local restaurants.

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Cancun is a paradise for water lovers. With its crystal clear waters and coral reefs, there are many water activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best activities in Cancun related to water.

Snorkeling in Coral Reefs

Discover the underwater world of Cancun, full of colorful fish and sea turtles. Coral reefs, such as the Costa Occidental National Park of Isla Mujeres and Punta Cancún, are ideal for snorkeling and viewing marine life. You can swim among corals and enjoy the beauty of the ocean.

Snorkel Xtreme

Be surprised by the biodiversity of the Mayan world while snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean, surrounded by exotic marine life. Fly over the jungle and enjoy our different flying styles on the seven zip line circuit, the most exciting in the region.

We will provide you with all the necessary equipment to rappel down and snorkel in an impressive underground river with crystal clear water, exploring the beauty of the Mayan cenotes. At the end of this exciting tour, enjoy a delicious buffet with food from the region. For more information and reservations, visit our blog: Adventure in the Mayan World: Zip Lines and Snorkeling.

Buceo in Cozumel

Travel to the island of Cozumel, famous for its incredible visibility and marine life. Cozumel is known for its impressive reefs and coral formations. Dive sites, such as Palancar and Columbia, offer spectacular views and a wide variety of marine life, including rays and sharks.

Explore the Underwater World of Cancun: Diving and Underwater Art

Cancun is famous for its crystal clear waters and spectacular coral reefs, making it the ideal destination for diving lovers. Discover unlimited areas to maximize your passion for diving. With a depth of 10 meters and an average annual temperature of 21°C, dive into the turquoise blue like a pro and admire THE SILENT EVOLUTION, a stunning work of underwater art created by Jason de Caires.

This fascinating installation features more than 200 life-size human figures, offering a unique and visually stunning experience. The excursions have capacity for 24 passengers and run at 8:00 AM on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. For more details and reservations, visit our blog: Diving and Underwater Art in Cancun.

Boat Trips

Enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride to see marine life without getting wet. This tour is perfect for the whole family. You can observe the underwater world from the boat, allowing you to see fish and coral without having to dive.

ALBATROS PLUS

Start your day on a comfortable catamaran with a guide on board who will show you the best places in the Caribbean Sea. Relax with the sea breeze and sail through the turquoise blue waters of the Mexican Caribbean. Then, snorkel at El Meco Reef and discover the vibrant marine life. Afterwards, we will head to Isla Mujeres, where you will enjoy a delicious buffet at a beach club.

Experience island life with white sand beaches, fishing ports, restaurants and souvenir shops. To end the day in style, return aboard the catamaran to dance and participate in fun activities. A full day of fun and relaxation in the Caribbean paradise!

Cancun's beaches are famous for their white sand and turquoise waters. In addition to relaxing, you can enjoy many outdoor activities on these beautiful beaches.

Playa Delfines

Visit one of the best-known beaches in Cancun, famous for its panoramic views and peaceful atmosphere. Playa Delfines, also known as "El Mirador," is ideal for relaxing and taking photos of the ocean. It is a perfect place to spend the day on the beach.

Isla Contoy

Relax in this bird haven and tropical paradise. Isla Contoy is a protected national park where you can enjoy nature in its purest state. It is ideal for bird watching, snorkeling and relaxing on pristine beaches.

Isla Holbox

Explore this tranquil destination where you can swim with whale sharks and enjoy deserted beaches. Holbox Island is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunsets. It is the perfect place to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty without the crowds.

Cancun comes alive at night with a vibrant entertainment scene. Nightlife in Cancun offers something for everyone, from live shows to club parties.

Coco Bongo

Enjoy incredible shows and live music at Coco Bongo. This venue is famous for its Las Vegas-style shows, which combine live performances, acrobatics and music. It is a place where you can dance and spend an unforgettable night.

The City Nightclub

Dance the night away at The City, one of the largest nightclubs in Latin America. With three levels of pure fun and international DJs, The City offers an exciting nighttime experience with impressive music and lights.

Dady'O

Have fun at Dady'O, a nightclub known for its theme parties and live DJs. Dady'O is one of the oldest clubs in Cancun, offering music and entertainment in a lively and exciting atmosphere.

The gastronomy in Cancun is varied and delicious. You can find everything from traditional Mexican food to high-quality international cuisine in these restaurants and bars.

La Parrilla

Try authentic tacos and other Mexican dishes at La Parrilla. This restaurant is known for its festive atmosphere and delicious Mexican food, including al pastor tacos and fresh guacamole.

La Habichuela

Enjoy traditional food in a charming setting at La Habichuela. This emblematic restaurant offers a menu that celebrates Mexican cuisine in a cozy and pleasant atmosphere.

Navíos Restaurant

Dinner on the water with sunset views at Restaurante Navíos. This romantic spot offers fresh seafood and contemporary Mexican cuisine, ideal for a special dinner or celebration.

Cancun is not only famous for its beaches, but also for its rich Mayan history and culture. If you are interested in the region's ancient past, there are several fascinating places you can visit. Explore archaeological sites and museums to learn more about how the Mayans lived and admire their impressive buildings. Here we tell you about some of the most notable places.

Ruinas de Tulum

The Mayan ruins of Tulum are one of the most visited archaeological sites in Cancun. This ancient Mayan port is located right on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, offering stunning views of the blue ocean and white sand beach. Walk among the ancient structures and discover the history of Tulum while enjoying the natural landscape. It is a perfect place to combine history with coastal beauty.

Coba Tulum Mayan Traditions

Visit the ruins and travel back in time to enjoy the architecture, flora and fauna of the ancient world. Get to know Tulum, the legendary walled city on the seashore; which enjoys a privileged view of the Caribbean.

Continue the journey towards crystal clear and refreshing waters of our semi-open cenote, where a tour through Mayan traditions awaits you, such as the introduction to the Honey of the Melipona Maya Bee, moving on to a demonstration of the Cacao bean, ending with a visit to a shaman who will give you one of his noble inheritances: the Mayan ceremony.

Allow us to pamper you with the best of regional cuisine to renew your strength. We will travel to the mythical Coba where you will see the highest pyramid on the peninsula

Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is one of the new seven wonders of the world and an essential archaeological site in Cancún. Here you can see the majestic pyramid of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo. This place offers a deep dive into the history of the Mayan civilization and is famous for its architectural structures and astronomical details. Chichén Itzá is a window to the past, showing the greatness and advanced knowledge of the ancient Mayans.

Chichen Itza Mayan Cuisine Plus

Enjoy one of the 7 new wonders of the world in this activity that is both fun and full of culture. Our certified guides will take you to the center of this ancient place. We will transport all your senses to the roots of regional cuisine (one of the greatest legacies of the Mayan Culture) in an unique gastronomic demonstration, experiencing tradition and innovation in the use of plants, vegetables and wildlife that transcends borders and symbolizes the rich culinary diversity of the area.

Sun Protection

Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun in Cancun. UV radiation can be high, so it's important to take care of your skin while enjoying your outdoor activities.

Enjoy Local Food

Don't miss the opportunity to try delicious local food in Cancun restaurants. From fresh seafood to traditional Mexican dishes, Cancun offers a culinary experience not to be missed.

Book in Advance

Book your tours and activities in advance to ensure you have a spot and have the best experience possible. Popular tours can fill up quickly, so planning ahead is a good idea.

Natural Wonders
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Outdoor Activities
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Cultural Experiences
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The Nightlife Scene
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