Tulum and the Riviera Maya are two of Mexico’s most breathtaking places, where there is a combination of exquisite beaches, ruins, lush jungle, and cosmopolitan culture. Whether you desire adventure, relaxation, or experience with Mayan civilization, this itinerary will guide you on an unforgettable journey along the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.
Arrival in Paradise
Your adventure begins when you land at Cancun International Airport, the main gateway to the Riviera Maya. Tulum is then about a 90-minute southbound drive. Renting a car is a great option for freedom, but shuttle and private transfer are alternatives too. The blue Caribbean and green jungle blend beautifully as you head south on the coastal highway, setting the scene for a truly unforgettable vacation.
Tulum: Where Ancient History Meets Bohemian Culture
Tulum is an intriguing combination of ancient Mayan heritage and modern eco-chic charm. Start your exploration with the famous Tulum Ruins, perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. These remarkably preserved ruins were once an important trading port, and the views here are simply stunning. Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and make the most of the golden light.
Having learned the history, now it’s time to relax in one of Tulum’s beautiful cenotes. Gran Cenote, a bit out of town, is an ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming in clear waters under a stalactite canopy with lush surroundings.
Spend the afternoon relaxing at one of Tulum’s famous beach clubs. Gitano, Casa Malca, or Nomade offer excellent food, refreshing cocktails, and stunning beachfront settings. For a more secluded experience, go to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and crystal-clear lagoons perfect for a boat tour or kayaking.
For dinner, eat in Tulum’s lively food culture. Go to Hartwood for wood-fired cuisine and sustainability. For true Mexican taste, head to Mateo’s Mexican Grill for refined Yucatecan cuisine. Cap your night at a high-level club like Bonbonniere, where you can sip on mezcal beneath a ceiling of twinkling lights and dance to live bands.
Bacalar: The Lagoon of Seven Colors
A trip to Bacalar, also known as the “Maldives of Mexico,” is totally worth it. Just a couple of hours south of Tulum, Bacalar has a large freshwater lagoon with stunning blue colors. Take your day kayaking or paddleboarding on the Laguna de Bacalar, bathing in the extraterrestrial quality of the water. Visit the Cenote Azul, a deep cenote situated on the lagoon, and the Fuerte de San Felipe, a historic fort that captures the pirate past of Bacalar. Relax in a lakeside eco-lodge and soak in the easy-going vibe of this best-kept secret.
Chichen Itza: A Wonder of the World
No tour of the Yucatán Peninsula would be complete without a visit to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Wake up early and make the drive to this legendary archaeological site, arriving as soon as it opens to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. The awe-inspiring El Castillo pyramid dominates the site, showcasing the advanced astronomical knowledge of the Mayan civilization. Explore the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court, and the Sacred Cenote, where ancient rituals took place.
On your way back, stop at Cenote Ik-Kil, the most scenic cenote in the region. Nestled between thick foliage and cascade vines, this cenote is perfect for a refreshing dip after a morning of touristing.
Finding Playa del Carmen and Beyond
Take a day’s break of pace in Playa del Carmen, the energetic hub of the Riviera Maya. Stroll along Quinta Avenida, a lively pedestrian street lined with boutiques, eateries, and bars. If you’re looking for souvenirs or local crafts, shop here.
One of the attractions close to Playa del Carmen is Xcaret Park, an eco-archaeological park where nature and culture meet. Swim through underground rivers, visit Mayan ruins, and watch traditional Mexican shows, including the world-renowned “Xcaret México Espectacular” show in the evening.
Cozumel: An Underwater Paradise
A ferry ride from Playa del Carmen gets you to Cozumel, an island renowned for its coral reefs and top-class snorkeling and diving. Go on a trip to Palancar and Colombia Reefs for a diving experience of a lifetime, where you get to view vibrant marine life and breathtaking underwater formations. Or, if being on land is your preference, hire a jeep or scooter to drive around the island’s scenic coastline, visiting remote beaches like Punta Sur Eco Beach Park and El Cielo, whose waters are covered with starfish.
For lunch, sample the newly served seafood at the Coconuts Bar & Grill, which boasts a soothing atmosphere in addition to stunning sea views. End the day in the island’s capital, San Miguel de Cozumel, where you can shop for genuinely designed souvenirs and also watch the Carribean sunset.
Conclusion
After a week of adventure and discovery, it’s time to unwind and bask in the peace of the Riviera Maya. On your last day, relax at Xpu-Ha Beach, a secluded gem famous for its white sandy beach and shallow, crystal-clear waters. The beach is less touristy than Playa del Carmen and Tulum, so it’s ideal for relaxing before your return home.
For your final meal, have dinner at Kin Toh at Azulik, a surreal restaurant with treehouse-style seating and sweeping jungle vistas. Their tasting menu is a not-to-be-forgotten gastronomic experience that combines Mayan ingredients with contemporary gastronomy.
As you sit and watch the Caribbean sunset, looking back on your travels through Tulum, Bacalar, Chichen Itza, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel, you’ll see why this area is one of Mexico’s most enchanted places. Whether it’s the ancient ruins, the mystical cenotes, the white-sand beaches, or the rich culture, the Riviera Maya gets under your skin, inviting you to return for another adventure in paradise.
