Highlights
- Enjoy shopping and nightlife in Playa del Carmen
- Explore the ruins of Chichén Itzá
- Snorkel along an underground river at Xcaret
- Kayak and ride a zipline through the forest in Bacalar
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Welcome to the Riviera Maya | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 2 | Chichén Itzá to Playa del Carmen | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 3 | Akumal, Mayan coast & the jungle | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 4 | Tulum & Mayan traditions | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 5 | Adventure in Bacalar | Bacalar |
| Day 6 | Xcaret Park | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 7 | Paradise in the Caribbean | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 8 | Departure from Mexico |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to the Riviera Maya
Arrive at Cancun International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Playa del Carmen. Rest and get ready to begin your Mayan adventure. You have the afternoon and evening free to walk along the beach, relax by the hotel pool, have a Mexican-style meal, and get acclimated.
Day 2: Chichén Itzá to Playa del Carmen
Today's excursion takes you to Chichén Itzá, an archaeological site considered one of the New Wonders of the World. After a visit to learn about its history—its main draw is the step Pyramid of Kukulkán (El Castillo), though there are many significant Mayan and Toltec buildings, sculptures, and reliefs of interest—you'll go to Ik Kil cenote, a stunning example of the 6,000-plus sinkholes in the Yucatán region, which were sometimes used by ancient Maya for sacrificial offerings. Soak up the beauty of the tropical plants and trees that surround it, which are also perfect habitats for exotic birds.
Day 3: Akumal, Mayan coast & the jungle
On day three, day-trip to the resort town of Akumal, noted for its white sands, coral reef, clear water, and marine life, especially turtles. Choose from activities like snorkeling, visiting the Yal Ku lagoon, or riding bikes along the beach.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Tulum & Mayan traditions
Discover the archaeological site of Tulum, one of the most important sites of the Mayan culture, located on the edge of the Caribbean Sea. The city has five different access points and two observation towers that the Mayans used. You'll learn all about it on a guided tour.
Later, enjoy a short visit to Cobá, an archaeological site filled with pyramids. Renting bikes is one way of getting around the large area. On the way back to Playa del Carmen, go for a dip in a cenote.
Day 5: Adventure in Bacalar
Go on an adventure in Bacalar, one of the most beautiful places in Riviera Maya. Go kayaking in the lagoon, then move onto to the region's zipline circuits. You'll ride five ziplines and have gorgeous views over the lagoon. You'll stay in Bacalar overnight.
Day 6: Xcaret Park
Spend the day in Xcaret Park among underground rivers, jungle pathways, and, of course, the Caribbean Sea. In addition to snorkeling and swimming, you'll dine on fresh seafood and get to know Mexico through its food, music, and dance during the Xcaret México Espectacular presentation, featuring more than 300 artists on stage.
Day 7: Paradise in the Caribbean
Enjoy a free day to explore Playa del Carmen in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Go for street tacos, relax on the beach, side-trip to nearby cenotes, or hang around the hotel pool. In the evening, go for a stroll on the busy pedestrian promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.
Day 8: Departure from Mexico
It's time to say goodbye. After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Cancun International Airport for your flight out of Mexico. Safe travels!