Best of Tulum

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Tulum
Powdery white-sand beaches and turquoise waters set the scene for an idyllic getaway in one of Mexico’s most captivating seaside destinations. While most travelers have a hard time tearing themselves away from the Caribbean, there’s much to see and do in the area. You can’t leave the region without visiting the Tulum Archaeological Site, an ancient walled city of the Mayans, built on a cliff overlooking the ocean. The region is also famous for its cenotes (natural pools) surrounded by rainforest or within Mayan ruins. There are over a dozen near Tulum, including the Gran Cenote, where you can snorkel with tropical fish and look for underwater carvings.    

Beyond the highlights, kimkim travelers have enjoyed heading out on diving adventures, exploring the nearby ruins of Cobá and visiting the secluded fishing village of Punta Allen. Some 30 minutes from Tulum, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve has abundant wildlife, including howler and spider monkeys, tapirs, manatees and over 300 bird species. The best way to experience it is by floating along the verdant waterways.
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Playa Ruinas
Mayan Culture & History in Tulum - 7 Days

Get away from the hustle and bustle on this adventurous weeklong trip to Tulum. You'll see the best of the Yucatan Peninsula—including the Tulum archaeological site, the Coba Maya ruins, underground caves, cenotes, and more—without compromising on the relaxation factor.

Swimming in a Yucatán jungle
Map of Mayan Culture & History in Tulum - 6 Days
Mayan Culture & History in Tulum - 6 Days

Spend six days exploring the best of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula as you base yourself in Tulum. You'll swim in jungle cenotes, head underground to explore caves and relax on beautiful beaches. This laid-back itinerary is perfect for those who want to get away from it all while still leaving room for adventure.

Chemuyil Cenotes
Mayan Culture & History in Tulum - 5 Days

If you want to get away to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, but don't want to sacrifice on adventure, this five-day getaway trip is for you. You'll base yourself in Tulum for daily activities: visiting ancient Mayan archeological sites, swimming in cenotes, wildlife viewing, and of course: eating all of Mexico's best food.

Explore the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve outside of Tulum on a full-day tour
Map of Active Adventures in Tulum - 6 Days
Active Adventures in Tulum - 6 Days

In less than a week, you can experience some of the best of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, which is home to hotspot destinations like Cancún and Tulum. You'll visit both these resort areas on a ride down the famous Riviera Maya stretch of the Caribbean coast. Other unforgettable activities include touring ancient Maya ruins, descending into underground rivers, and swimming in protected nature reserves.

 Maya ruins of Tulum
Map of Tulum: Best Itinerary Ideas
Tulum: Best Itinerary Ideas

Six days to a week is a great length for a Mexico trip with stops in Tulum. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as four or five days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Valladolid, Mexico City, or Puerto Morelos. See more ideas for Tulum itineraries below.

Mexico City's Zócalo (plaza)
Map of Mexico City to the Riviera Maya: Culture, Ruins & Cenotes - 8 Days
Mexico City to the Riviera Maya: Culture, Ruins & Cenotes - 8 Days

This eight-day journey combines Mexico City's famous landmarks with a quick flight to the Riviera Maya for beach time on the Caribbean coast. Visit the capital's Spanish-colonial cathedrals and Aztec archeological sites before riding down ancient canals on a gondola. There are even more aquatic activities in store in the Yucatán region, where you'll dive into cenote lagoons and swim in underground rivers.

Take the kids to a cenote for a fun splash
Map of Mexico's Riviera Maya: Adventures in Nature for Active Families - 10 Days
Mexico's Riviera Maya: Adventures in Nature for Active Families - 10 Days

Active families who like to combine beach time with more energetic pursuits in nature will love this 10-day tour of Mexico's Riviera Maya. Divide your time between Tulum and Playa Del Carmen, which allows you to delve into the countryside surrounding these popular spots. If you and your kids enjoy swimming in hidden cenotes, cycling through the countryside, and touring around ancient ruins and culture-rich cities, this idyllic tour on the Yucatán Peninsula's Caribbean coast is for you.

 A sign showing the direction of a cenote in the Yucatán Peninsula
Map of Active Yucatán Road Trip: Ruins, Cenotes & Outdoor Adventure - 10 Days
Active Yucatán Road Trip: Ruins, Cenotes & Outdoor Adventure - 10 Days

This self-drive Yucatán adventure takes you through some of some of the most unspoiled nature on Mexico's Caribbean coast. Based between Valladolid and Tulum, you'll spend time exploring archaeological ruins and swimming in crystal-clear cenotes. Float through the ancient lagoon system of the UNESCO Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, head into the jungle for ziplining and canoeing, and then sit down with the locals to taste traditional cooking and cuisine.

Ik Kil cenote is part of the Ik Kil Archeological Park near Chichén Itzá, Yucatán
Map of Yucatán History, Culture & Natural Treasures - 7 Days
Yucatán History, Culture & Natural Treasures - 7 Days

This weeklong, active journey will take you through the highlights of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. Begin in Valladolid, then prepare to visit Ek' Balam Archaeological Site and Chichén Itzá, and go swimming in ancient cenotes. Next, transfer to Tulum for a cooking class with a local chef, explore the canals of Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve by boat and self-propulsion, and thrill to a jungle adventure park before heading home.

Tulum ruins
Map of Mexico City & Tulum: Best Itinerary Ideas
Mexico City & Tulum: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, eight to nine days is the perfect amount of time for a Mexico trip, with stops in both Mexico City and Tulum. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in a week, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favored itinerary extensions include Valladolid, Playa del Carmen, or Mérida. See more ideas for Mexico City and Tulum itineraries below.

El Castillo ruins at historically famous Tulum
Map of Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 11 Days
Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 11 Days

When you combine the ancient Maya culture of the Yucatán Peninsula with its natural beauty, you have all the makings of the perfect holiday. Over 11 days, you'll visit the highlights of this region, like its famous Maya ruins, while also going off the beaten path to swim in turquoise cenote lagoons and visit indigenous villages. Beyond that, you'll participate in Maya culinary workshops, snorkel in marine reserves, and discover Holbox Island's tranquil paradise.

 Lie out along the Caribbean at Playa del Carmen
Map of Tulum & Playa del Carmen: Best Itinerary Ideas
Tulum & Playa del Carmen: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, six to 10 days are the perfect amount of time for a Mexico trip, with stops in both Tulum and Playa del Carmen. It's also possible to hit the highlights in five days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Valladolid, Mexico City, or Puerto Morelos. See more ideas for Tulum and Playa del Carmen itineraries below.

Walk around Ek' Balam followed by swimming in a cenote
Map of Jungle & Culture Tour in Mexico's Maya Land - 5 Days
Jungle & Culture Tour in Mexico's Maya Land - 5 Days

This five-day getaway to Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula combines Spanish-colonial landmarks, Maya culture, and outdoor activities. Start by visiting colonial churches in Valladolid before cycling around the ancient ruins at Cobá and touring local Maya villages and cenotes. As a bonus, you'll explore not one but two unspoiled nature reserves— Sian Ka'an and Punta Laguna—for swimming and hiking.

Town square of Valladolid, Mexico
Map of Valladolid & Tulum: Best Itinerary Ideas
Valladolid & Tulum: Best Itinerary Ideas

Six to seven days is a great length for a Mexico trip, with stops in both Valladolid and Tulum. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in five days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Holbox, Puerto Morelos, or Mexico City. See more ideas for Valladolid and Tulum itineraries below.

You can't get much closer to the beach than at your luxury boutique hotel in Tulum (photo courtesy of La Zebra Colibri)
Map of Authentic Luxury on Mexico's Riviera Maya - 5 Days
Authentic Luxury on Mexico's Riviera Maya - 5 Days

This five-day itinerary redefines laid-back luxury travel on the Riviera Maya, mixing the colonial charm of Valladolid with Tulum's coastal chic. Start in Valladolid with a private walking tour, then unveil the ancient secrets of Ek' Balam and cycle through the mystique of Cobá's ruins. Cruise along the Caribbean coast, snorkeling with tropical fish and giant turtles as your onboard chef prepares a fresh Mexican lunch. Finally, take home Mexico's culinary secrets with a private cooking class in a local chef's home.

Explore ancient ruins in Tulum with the kids
Map of Family Adventure on Mexico's Costa Maya - 14 Days
Family Adventure on Mexico's Costa Maya - 14 Days

Mexico's Costa Maya region is an ideal destination for families, whether your kids are tiny, nearly grown, or somewhere in between. The combination of beautiful beaches, outdoor attractions, plentiful wildlife, delicious food, and fascinating culture will appeal to kids and adults alike. This two-week itinerary provides ample opportunities to relax and rejuvenate as well as get active and make the most of the destination—as you snorkel, kayak, cycle, and swim together along the spectacular Caribbean coast.

Holbox Island
Map of Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 12 Days
Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 12 Days

From the colonial streets of Valladolid to the peaceful beaches of Holbox Island, this 12-day itinerary delivers plenty of adventure and relaxation in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. Tour ancient Maya ruins, go swimming in underground rivers, and enjoy some R&R on the white-sand beaches of Holbox Island. And that's just the start.

Cancún
Map of Mexico Ruins, Beaches & Nightlife: Cancún, Tulum & Playa del Carmen - 6 Days
Mexico Ruins, Beaches & Nightlife: Cancún, Tulum & Playa del Carmen - 6 Days

If you're in need of a quick escape to a tropical paradise, you can't do much better than Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. Over six packed days, you'll visit the highlights of the region's famous Riviera Maya, from the resorts and nightlife of Cancún to the ancient Maya fortress ruins at Tulum. You'll even venture below the earth for a dip in the largest underground river in the world.

Feel the Caribbean breezes on the beaches of Tulum on this Mexico road trip
Map of Quick Riviera Maya Road Trip: Playa del Carmen to Tulum - 6 Days
Quick Riviera Maya Road Trip: Playa del Carmen to Tulum - 6 Days

Perfect for a quick escape, this six-day road trip through the highlights of the Riviera Maya takes you south from the beaches of Playa del Carmen to the ruins of Tulum. Along the way, you'll snorkel in the world-renowned reefs around the island of Cozumel, explore the ancient wonder of Chichén Itzá, and learn to whip up traditional Mexican dishes in a Tulum cooking class.

Traditional meal
Mexico Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 11 Days

Swim in a hidden jungle cenote, explore the Playa Ruinas near Tulum, and more on this eleven-day exploration of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. You'll go caving underground to see ancient geologic formations, visit the archaeological site of Coba, and end the trip by relaxing on Holbox Island's beautiful sand beaches.

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Map of History, Culture & Beaches: Riviera Maya & Valladolid - 11 Days
History, Culture & Beaches: Riviera Maya & Valladolid - 11 Days

Escape to the Yucatán Peninsula, a region in southern Mexico known for its unparalleled beauty. On this adventure, you'll spend a lot of time on the famed Riviera Maya, a section of the Caribbean coast lined with white-sand beaches fronting turquoise waters. Aside from beach time, you'll also explore ancient Maya ruins, swim in underground rivers, and hike around nature reserves in and around Valladolid and the coast.

Laguna Chunyaxche
Map of Mexican Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 9 Days
Mexican Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 9 Days

From Mexico's Caribbean coast to the colonial streets of Valladolid, this nine-day trip showcases thousands of years of history and culture while leaving ample time for rest and relaxation. Dive into cenote lagoons, marvel at the great pyramids of Chichen Itza, and relax on the white-sand beaches of Holbox Island. Along the way, take part in cultural exchanges to learn about Indigenous Maya customs as you meet local families and enjoy traditional home-cooked meals.

Chichen Itza
Mexico's Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 10 Days

Explore ancient Maya ruins, kick back on the beach, and visit the rainforest on this ten-day trip to Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. Start the trip in Tulum for swims in cenotes, then head to Valladolid to see Chichén Itzá and other archaeological sites. End the trip on Holbox Island, a car-free oasis of sprawling beaches and quiet cafés.

Flamingows at Ría Lagartos Reserve
Map of Family Fun on the Yucatán Peninsula - 10 Days
Family Fun on the Yucatán Peninsula - 10 Days

This 10-day tour of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula is the family trip of a lifetime. Start in the village of Puerto Morelos, where you'll snorkel among the coral beds, colorful fish, and the occasional shy octopus of Puerto Morelos Reef National Park. Visit Mérida to tour ancient Chichén Itzá, then cruise Valladolid's Ría Lagartos Reserve while the kids count flocks of pink flamingoes. See the ruins of Tulum, take a jungle adventure with ziplining and cenote swims, and explore the peaceful waters of Sian Ka'an Reserve.

 Puerto Morelos' main square
Map of Puerto Morelos, Tulum & Holbox: Best Itinerary Ideas
Puerto Morelos, Tulum & Holbox: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Puerto Morelos, Tulum, and Holbox spend about 10 to 13 days in Mexico, which usually includes some time in Valladolid as well. If you're not interested in Valladolid, 8 to 12 days is enough for your Puerto Morelos, Tulum, and Holbox trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Puerto Morelos, Tulum, Holbox, and beyond.

Experience the nature and beauty of the Yucatán, below and above water
Map of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula in a Nutshell Tour - 10 Days
Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula in a Nutshell Tour - 10 Days

Explore the cultural and natural highlights of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula on this perfectly paced 10-day tour. Split your time between three key Yucatán towns: the charming fishing village of Puerto Morelos, the lively Tulum, and the historical Valladolid. Along the way, you'll snorkel among coral reefs, swim in hidden cenotes near ruined Maya cities, and explore the underground river of Río Secreto.

The Church of San Servacio in the city of Valladolid
Map of Mexico City & Riviera Maya - 10 Days
Mexico City & Riviera Maya - 10 Days

This off-the-beaten-track adventure kicks off in Mexico City, where you'll learn the area's pre-Colombian history and visit mysterious temples built by the Aztecs and Mayans. From here, fly to the Riviera Maya to ramble in the colonial streets of Valladolid, dine on fresh cuisine, and chill out on the Caribbean Sea. Expect private guides and transportation throughout (except for your free day in Tulum).

Tulum beach, Yucatán
Map of Relaxation on the Yucatán Peninsula - 8 Days
Relaxation on the Yucatán Peninsula - 8 Days

There are few better places for a quick recharge than Mexico's stunning Yucatán Peninsula. Over eight days, you'll travel down the famous Riviera Maya, hike around fortress ruins in Tulum, visit indigenous Maya communities, swim in exotic lagoons, and stroll around historic cities. However, you'll really kick back and relax during a couple of free days on the remote beaches of tranquil Holbox Island.

Maya ruins near Tulum
Map of Explore the Real Riviera Maya – 8 Days
Explore the Real Riviera Maya – 8 Days

Discover authentic Mexican life on this sustainable tour of the Riviera Maya. Take a road trip from Valladolid to Tulum, stopping at sparkling forest cenotes, biosphere reserves, and ancient Maya ruins like the UNESCO-listed Chichén Itzá. Along the way, you'll meet corn farmers, rap groups, and the founder of a wildlife conservation project. Soak up some Mexican culture with a traditional steam bath and mariachi evening, then finish up on the white-sand beaches of Playa del Carmen.

Take in the ancient Maya ruins and lie out on the pristine beaches of the Riviera Maya
Map of Riviera Maya Road Trip - 13 Days
Riviera Maya Road Trip - 13 Days

The Caribbean side of Mexico isn't known as the western Riviera for nothing—this stunning section of coast is lined with white-sand beaches home to towering hotels overlooking turquoise waters. More than that, it's filled with ancient Maya ruins, fairy-tale cenotes, and unspoiled nature reserves. You'll see all this and more as you spend 13 days on a self-drive tour around the region's natural highlights and resort towns—from Tulum to Playa del Carmen to Holbox Island.

Visit the ruins at Ek' Balam on your last full day
Map of Mexico's Yucatán in a Nutshell Tour - 5 Days
Mexico's Yucatán in a Nutshell Tour - 5 Days

Go beyond Cancún and explore the lesser-visited highlights of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula on this quick five-day escape. It begins in Puerto Morelos, whose unspoiled reef is part of a marine reserve you'll explore during a snorkeling trip. Then visit the ruins of El Castillo—situated above a beach in beautiful Tulum—before finishing with a tour of the even grander Ek' Balam archaeological site.

Take a dip in the Caribbean Sea after exploring the Tulum Archaeological Zone
Map of Cultural Highlights of Mexico - 13 Days
Cultural Highlights of Mexico - 13 Days

A great thing about Mexico is that its cultural highlights also make for some of the most fun activities. You'll experience many such adventures over 13 days as you tour the historic center of Mexico City, hike the pyramids of Teotihuacán, and visit colorful neighborhoods like Xochimilco. Then you're off to the famous Yucatán Peninsula to tour the ruins of ancient Maya cities, participate in indigenous cultural exchanges, and enjoy beach time on the Caribbean coast and the Holbox Island.

 A Puerto Morelos beach along Mexico's Riviera Maya
Map of Puerto Morelos, Valladolid, Tulum & Holbox: Best Itinerary Ideas
Puerto Morelos, Valladolid, Tulum & Holbox: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 10 to 13 days is perfect for a well-paced Mexico trip with stops in Puerto Morelos, Valladolid, Tulum, and Holbox. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in eight or nine days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Mexico City. See more ideas for Puerto Morelos, Valladolid, Tulum, and Holbox itineraries below.

Bacalar lagoon
Map of Highlights of Chiapas and Quintana Roo - 14 Days
Highlights of Chiapas and Quintana Roo - 14 Days

Take in the views from atop ancient Mayan pyramids and underneath waterfalls with this two-week trip through some of the region's top spots. You'll wander through complex Mayan ruins, along turquoise shores, and into jungles as you learn about Mexican history and ecosystems.

Experience the many shades of blue in Bacalar's lagoon
Map of Discover the Yucatán: Natural Treasures & Maya Heritage - 14 Days
Discover the Yucatán: Natural Treasures & Maya Heritage - 14 Days

This 14-day journey through the Yucatán Peninsula weaves nature, Maya culture, and ancient wonders into one memorable adventure. Start your exploration in Tulum, where pristine beaches meet well-preserved Maya ruins. Then head to the Lagoon of Seven Colors in Bacalar for a serene escape before immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Valladolid, with its colorful colonial charm and archaeological wonders. Finally, venture to Holbox, an island paradise packed with nature experiences.

Sample plenty of eats on this food and culture themed itinerary of Mexico
Map of Food & Culture from Mexico City to the Yucatán - 11 Days
Food & Culture from Mexico City to the Yucatán - 11 Days

Dive into Mexico's rich culture over 11 days and enjoy some of the country's best activities (and most delicious food). It begins with tours of Mexico City's historic cobbled streets and a visit to the awe-inspiring ruins at Teotihuacán. Then jet off to the Yucatán Peninsula, where you'll take a traditional cooking class plus visit mystical cenote lagoons, ancient Maya ruins, and colonial cities.

Exploring the Cenotes
Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 18 Days

Take eighteen relaxing days to drive through the Yucatan Peninsula as you explore the best that Mexico has to offer: colonial cities, indigenous communities, white-sand beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins. Start the trip in Tulum for a dip into a turquoise cenote, then head to Bacalar for a sail on the lagoon. End in Valladolid and Holbox Island for sunrise at Chichen Itza and a couple days on the beach.

Discover the vast Maya city of Uxmal on the Puuc Route
Map of Highlights of Mexico: From Mexico City to the Riviera Maya - 14 Days
Highlights of Mexico: From Mexico City to the Riviera Maya - 14 Days

Step back in time on this two-week itinerary highlighting ancient Aztec and Maya ruins. Along the way, you'll explore Mexico City, the colonial towns of Valladolid and Mérida, and the turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya. Other adventures include snorkeling in freshwater cenotes, hiking up pre-Hispanic pyramids, and meeting with Indigenous locals to learn about Maya history and culture.

Relax in sun-kissedBacalar in the Yucatán
Map of Yucatán Road Trip: Tulum, Bacalar, Valladolid, Mérida, Holbox & Puerto Morelos - 12 Days
Yucatán Road Trip: Tulum, Bacalar, Valladolid, Mérida, Holbox & Puerto Morelos - 12 Days

Get ready for a 12-day road-trip adventure across Mexico's famed Yucatán Peninsula, known for its Caribbean beaches, underground cenotes, and ancient Maya ruins. You'll see all of it, starting at the fortress ruins in Tulum and then visiting biosphere reserves and exotic turquoise lakes. Next, you'll venture north to enjoy cultural exchanges in Indigenous communities, visit Spanish-colonial heritage cities, and descend into underground caves sacred to the Maya people.

A close up of Mexico City's "tacos al pastor"
Map of Food & Culture from Mexico City to the Yucatán - 12 Days
Food & Culture from Mexico City to the Yucatán - 12 Days

Over 12 days, you'll experience the cultural highlights of Mexico City and the Yucatán Peninsula, from the cuisine to the historic landmarks to the natural beauty. It starts with a whirlwind tour of Mexico's capital, during which you'll nibble on street food, stroll the colonial streets of Coyoacán, and hike the pyramids of Teotihuacán. Then it's off to the stunning Yucatán region to laze on white-sand beaches, visit biosphere reserves, and hike around ancient Maya ruins.

Puerto Morelos
Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 19 Days

Drive from city to beach on this nineteen-day immersive trip through the Yucatan Peninsula. From the colonial cities of Merida and Valladolid to the ancient Maya ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, you'll explore the best that the region has to offer. Tour historic sites, sample local fare, relax on beaches, and more as you make your way through the jungles and roads of the area.

Ancient Uxmal Ruins
Map of Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 13 Days
Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 13 Days

Spend 13 days enjoying the best of the Yucatán Peninsula on this whirlwind itinerary. Tour the famous ruins at Uxmal, Tulum, and Chichén Itzá, plus visit Spanish-colonial heritage towns like Izamal and Valladolid. Throughout the adventure, you'll also dive into turquoise cenote lagoons, immerse yourself in local Maya culture, and enjoy some "me" time on the white-sand beaches of Puerto Morelos and Holbox Island.

Scuba diving in the Yucatan
Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 21 Days

Fully immerse yourself into Mexican history and culture on this comprehensive three-week trip. From the colonial cities of Merida and Valladolid to the ancient Mayan ruins of Uxmal and Chichen Itza, this trip covers millennia of history and leaves room for relaxation and food. End the trip on Holbox Island for some of Mexico's loveliest beaches and plenty of sunshine

Bacalar Lagoon
Map of Nature & Mayan Life: Tulum, Bacalar, Merida, Holbox & More - 14 Days
Nature & Mayan Life: Tulum, Bacalar, Merida, Holbox & More - 14 Days

Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to see some of Mexico's best archaeological sites—including Chichén Itzá—while also leaving plenty of time for relaxation. You'll swim in beautiful cenotes, explore the colonial city of Merida, and experience Indigenous culture. End with a couple of days on Holbox Island, where sand, surf, and beautiful sunshine await.

Drink refreshing "cocos" (coconuts) on a Mexican beach
Map of Food & Culture from Mexico City to the Yucatán - 15 Days
Food & Culture from Mexico City to the Yucatán - 15 Days

When you combine the incredible sights of Mexico with its delicious flavors, you have a recipe for the perfect vacation. This grand tour starts with Mexico City's highlights and includes copious samplings of tasty street food and famous spirits. From there, you'll travel to historical landmarks and natural wonders throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, from the pyramids of Chichen Itza to the white-sand beaches of the Riviera Maya to the remote islands of the far north.

See the turquoise waters of Laguna Bacalar by sailboat
Map of Best of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula: Cities, Culture & Coast - 14 Days
Best of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula: Cities, Culture & Coast - 14 Days

With two weeks to spare, you can discover Yucatán's white-sand beaches, ancient Maya ruins, and colorful colonial cities at a relaxed pace. This adventurous itinerary takes you counter-clockwise around the peninsula from Valladolid to Tulum, checking off the region's many UNESCO-listed archaeological sites, nature reserves, and historic centers along the way. Highlights include snorkeling off Isla Holbox, sampling regional gastronomy in Mérida, and climbing the Maya pyramid at Calakmul.

Yokdzonot Cenote in Yucatán
Map of Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 15 Days
Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 15 Days

Fifteen days in Mexico's Yucatán region is enough time to visit famous archaeological sites while also enjoying its famous white-sand beaches. Explore the ruins at Chichén Itzá, experience indigenous cultural traditions, and float in the turquoise waters of the Chemuyil cenotes—these are just a few of the highlights. You'll also venture to Holbox Island and enjoy its famous golden sunsets.

Enjoying the views
Nature & Mayan Life: Tulum, Bacalar, Merida, Holbox, & More - 16 Days

Explore the best of Mexico's offerings on this comprehensive 16-day trip. Swim in crystal clear cenotes and go sailing in the Bacalar Lagoon. Continue to Chunhuhub for a mystical bonfire experience, then spend a few days exploring the historical sites of Merida and Chichen Itza. End the trip on Holbox Island for several days of sun, beach, and surf.

Take a scenic boat tour through the Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas
Map of Adventure in Chiapas & the Riviera Maya - 14 Days
Adventure in Chiapas & the Riviera Maya - 14 Days

Over two weeks in Mexico, you'll discover the diverse state of Chiapas, with its jungle waterfalls, colonial cities, and Indigenous Maya communities. Then, get behind the wheel for a self-drive adventure around the Yucatán Peninsula, stopping to relax on the beach, swim in cenotes, and visit ancient ruins perched above the Caribbean Sea.

Enjoy spending time exploring Yucatán's Riviera Maya
Map of Highlights of Mexico City & the Riviera Maya - 11 Days
Highlights of Mexico City & the Riviera Maya - 11 Days

Explore two of Mexico's highlight regions: historic Mexico City and the beautiful Yucatán Peninsula. In the former, you'll hike up Aztec pyramids and stroll the cobbled streets of its Centro Histórico—all while indulging in delicious street food. Then you're off to the white-sand beaches of the Yucatán, where you'll tour ancient Maya ruins, participate in Indigenous workshops, and snorkel marine reserves.

Other popular travel destinations in Mexico
Yucatán Peninsula · Mexico City · Valladolid · Oaxaca · Mérida · Holbox · Puerto Morelos · Chiapas · San Cristobal de las Casas · Playa del Carmen · Cholula · Puebla · Bacalar · Palenque · Campeche · Cancún · Chunhuhub · Uxmal · Calakmul · Guadalajara · San Miguel de Allende · La Paz · Guanajuato · Morelia · Querétaro · Cabo San Lucas · Pisté · Los Cabos