Explore the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

Mexico is a classic vacation spot – honeymooners, spring-breakers, and families all flock to the country for a tropical getaway. Mexico is known for its lavish all-inclusive resorts, attractive beaches, dynamic cities, and fascinating culture. The Yucatán Peninsula is arguably the most beautiful part of Mexico, and is home to the most popular vacation destination in Mexico – Cancun. Here, you can find a number of exciting things to do, from exploring Mayan ruins to swimming in a crystallized cave. Here are some activities in the Yucatán to get you started:

 

Cancun City

 

Cancun is by far one of the most popular destinations in Mexico, and is known to be a party city getaway. This metropolis is booming with historical culture, lively entertainment spots on every corner, access to gorgeous beaches, and endless opportunities for exciting excursions. All of Cancun’s features make the city a hub for every type of traveler and occasions. From bachelorette parties to family vacations, Cancun can host it all! 

 

Mexico parade

 

Downtown Cancun

 

To experience a taste of local shopping, bars, and restaurants while observing the historical Mexico culture, downtown Cancun is the way to go. Downtown Cancun is where many residential areas are stored, and locals of the Yucatán Peninsula reside. Parque Las Palapas is the city’s main plaza that encompasses markets, street food, handcraft vendors, and other attractions. Downtown Cancun makes the perfect evening stroll to pick up souvenirs, unique crafts, and get a genuine taste of real Mexican food. 

 

Hotel Zone 

 

You may wanna skip the family vacation if you plan to visit Hotel Zone! While there are multiple international resorts and restaurants, glistening beach views, and shopping malls, Hotel Zone is most known for its booming nightlife, including Cancun’s fun-loving salsa clubs, engaging bars, and stunning city views. Hotel Zone is a must see Cancun target. 

If you want to escape the crowds and see a little more coast, Cancun offers a number of tours and attractions, with so many choices it may be hard to pick! Boat tours, day trips, snorkeling with whale sharks, and Mayan Ruins are included in this list, to complete the tropical vacation of a lifetime. 

 

Tropical Expeditions 

 
snorkeling in Mexico

 

The Yucatán Peninsula separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean Sea, and even corners parts of Belize and Guatemala. Harboring these two incredible bodies of water, the Yucatán Peninsula offers an array of intense and exhilarating tropical activities. There’s only one downside – after experiencing them, it’s guaranteed you won’t want to go home! 

 

Snorkeling

 

Almost anywhere you go around Cancun and its bordering areas will offer snorkeling. Popular marine life to see while snorkeling around the Yucatán include sailfish, whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, vivid reef life, and colorful, diverse, species of fish. 

 

Boating

 

The only thing better than hanging out on a boat, is hanging out on a boat with a bar! At the Yucatán Peninsula, hand select your choice of party boats, sailing tours, speed boating, dancing cruises, and more! These diverse options of boating expeditions often include stopping points for activities such as jungle tours, jet skiing, and snorkeling adventurous, as well as opportunities for ATV rides and ziplining along the coast. Party animals have numerous choices for Cancun’s adult only day or half day long boat voyages. 

 

Caves & Cenotes

 

Cenote

 

 

The Yucatán Peninsula inhabits several different caves that visitors have an opportunity to explore. Underwater caves are also commonly found in this region, in which swimming and snorkeling is provided. 

 

 

Cenotes Sac Actun, Tulum, Mexico 

 

Tulum is home to many of the alluring beaches in Mexico, as well as ancient venues rich in history, such as several of the Mayan ruins. In addition, local wildlife is found dispersed throughout various parts of Tulum, for visitors to observe. Tulum hosts the mystical cave of Cenotes Sac Actun, the world’s largest underwater cave network. Cenotes Sac Actun is a large underwater sinkhole, where travelers can participate in cave diving, snorkeling, or simply relaxing under the shade. 

This exciting destination consists of unbelievably clear water that is safe for guests to enjoy.  To top it off, the cave’s roof is so beautiful, it appears as if it’s covered in thousands of tiny diamonds – even bats enjoy the solitary environment of this realm! Don’t fear these quiet creatures though, as they tend to keep to themselves. 

 

Cenote Xkeken, Valladolid 

 

Cenote Xkeken is close to the city of Valladolid, a peaceful district on the east side of the Yucatán Peninsula. This underwater cave represents one of the most peaceful and scenic sinkholes, formed of distinctive rock collections in unique shapes such as shark teeth and long swords, hanging from the cave’s roof. While you may want to immediately immerse yourself into the turquoise blue water, this cave actually does not permit jumping or diving. However, independent snorkeling is encouraged, and long ropes diverge from the cave’s top, so swimmers can grab on and wade in the reservoir. 

 

History 

 
Mayan ruins in Mexico
In addition to the entertainment of Cancun, tempting beaches, and tropical fun, the Yucatán Peninsula is also home to tons of Mayan historical landmarks. Visit Chichen Itza, a world heritage site, or one of the many Mayan ruins such as Ek Balam and Uxmal. While getting to enjoy the beauty of the Yucatán, you’ll feel as if you’re stepping into a different world.

 

Where can I find tickets, tours, and excursions in Mexico?

 

You can find endless activity options on TripAdvisor and Viator when it comes to group tours, excursions, booking information, hotels, and lodging. 

 

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