Exploring Mexico’s Riviera Maya and Yucatán

A Holiday Full of Adventures in Mexico

If you’re seeking a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, the Riviera Maya and Yucatán region of Mexico offer a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday. From ancient Mayan ruins and turquoise cenotes to vibrant cities and stunning beaches, this area caters to travelers who crave exploration and local experiences. This guide is packed with recommendations on when to go, where to stay, what to see and suggestions for activities and adventures to experience during your time in Mexico.

What the Riviera Maya and Yucatán Offer

The Riviera Maya and Yucatán Peninsula are two of Mexico’s top destinations, offering everything from beautiful beaches to fascinating history. In the Riviera Maya, you’ll find spots like Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancún, known for their crystal-clear waters and white sands. The Yucatán offers more cultural experiences, with colonial cities like Mérida and famous Mayan ruins like Chichen Itzá. Whether you want to relax by the sea, explore ancient ruins, or dive into local culture, these areas have plenty to offer.

Recent Tourism in the Riviera Maya and Yucatán

Tourism in the Riviera Maya took off in the 1970s with the rise of Cancún as a major beach destination. Since then, Playa del Carmen and Tulum have become popular for their more laid-back atmosphere. In the Yucatán, cities like Mérida have grown as people seek out more cultural and historical experiences away from the coast. Recently, eco-tourism has been on the rise in both regions, with many resorts focusing on sustainability.

Why Visit the Riviera Maya and Yucatán?

This region offers something for every type of traveler. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, there are plenty of resorts with all the amenities you need. If you prefer history and culture, the Yucatán is rich with Mayan heritage and colonial architecture. It’s also a great spot for adventure seekers, with activities like diving, snorkelling, and exploring cenotes (natural sinkholes).

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is warm and dry. The summer months (May to October) are hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so it’s best to plan accordingly if visiting during this time.

Year-Round Weather

  • November to April (Dry Season): Warm days (25-30°C), cooler nights, low humidity.
  • May to October (Wet Season): Hot and humid (30-35°C), with potential for tropical storms.

Best Resorts to Visit

  • Banyan Tree Mayakoba (Luxury): Located in Playa del Carmen, this eco-resort offers private villas with pools, fine dining, a golf course, and a spa inspired by Asian traditions.
  • Hotel Xcaret Mexico (Luxury All-Inclusive): This unique resort blends luxury accommodations with unlimited access to adventure parks and cultural experiences.
  • Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa (Mid-Range): A family-friendly all-inclusive resort with multiple pools, beach access, and a wide range of activities.
  • Viva Wyndham Maya (Affordable): Located in Playa del Carmen, this resort offers great value with beach access, entertainment, and dining options included.

Hotel Accommodation Recommendations

  • Luxury: Unico 20º87º Riviera Maya, Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya.
  • Mid-Range: Fiesta Americana Condesa, Mahekal Beach Resort.
  • Affordable: RIU Playacar, Crown Paradise Club Cancun

Must-See Places in the Riviera Maya and YucatánChichen Itza

  • Chichen Itzá: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city is a must-visit.
  • Tulum Ruins: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean, these seaside ruins are as picturesque as they are historic.
  • Cenote Ik Kil: Near Chichen Itzá, this iconic cenote is perfect for a swim in its deep blue waters surrounded by lush jungle.
  • Mérida: The cultural heart of Yucatán, Mérida offers colonial architecture, bustling markets, and a vibrant arts scene.
  • Río Lagartos and Las Coloradas: Visit the pink salt lakes and spot flamingos in this stunning nature reserve.

Adventures in the Riviera Maya and Yucatán

  • Cenote Swimming: Take a dip in natural sinkholes unique to the region.
  • Mayan Ruins: Explore famous sites like Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itzá.
  • Snorkelling and Diving: Check out the world’s second-largest barrier reef.
  • Eco-Adventures: Go zip-lining, kayaking, or explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
  • Cultural Experiences: Visit Mérida’s markets or learn how to cook local dishes.

Cycling and Walking Activities

  • Coastal Walks: Enjoy relaxing coastal walks along the beach in Tulum or Playa del Carmen.
  • Cycling: Explore the colonial cities of Mérida and Valladolid by bike with flat, bike-friendly streets and plenty of shaded spots to rest.
  • Nature Hikes and Birdwatching: Take guided hikes through the jungles and nature reserves like Sian Ka’an and Punta Laguna.

For the Older Traveller

The Riviera Maya and Yucatán cater exceptionally well to older travelers. Whether you prefer tranquil beach resorts, guided cultural tours, or simply strolling through historic towns, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a leisurely pace. Many hotels offer accessibility features, and tour operators can provide tailored experiences that cater to your needs.

Tips for Your Mexico Holiday

  • Transportation: Rent a car for flexibility or book a guided trips through one of the many companies offering excursions. Many of these will pick you up from your hotel.
  • Local Food and Drinks: Try Conchinita Pibil, slow-roasted pork, cooked in banana leaves and Xtabentún, a local anise-flavored liqueur made with honey, or sample different types of tequila and mezcal.
  • Festivals: If traveling in late October, don’t miss the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, a vibrant cultural festival honoring loved ones.

Conclusion

The Riviera Maya and Yucatán offer a great mix of beach relaxation, cultural exploration, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re traveling as a family, solo, or an older traveler, these regions provide an easy, enjoyable holiday that can be tailored to your interests.

Guided Tours of Mexico

If you don’t want to don’t want to plan your own holiday, why not choose a fully guided tour. Here are three of our favourite guided tours to the region. If you would like to book any of these tours and add flights, contact you local travel agent.

1. Exodus Travels: Lost Civilisations Adventure

  • Tour Overview: Although not centered solely on the Yucatan Peninsula, this 15-day tour includes highlights of Mexico’s cultural landmarks, including stops at ancient ruins and beautiful colonial cities. You’ll discover lost civilisations, Spanish colonial heritage, natural beauty and a rich culture
  • Highlights:
    • Enjoy incredible culinary and artistic traditions
    • Visit ancient temples, cities and colonial towns
    • Explore highlands, jungles and coastlines
  • Why Choose This Tour: Ideal for travelers interested in combining cultural experiences with historical sites and scenic destinations.

2. Intrepid Travel: Mexico Yucatan Adventure

  • Tour Overview: This 8-day tour dives into the Yucatan Peninsula, featuring incredible natural and archaeological sites. It’s a perfect balance of history, culture, and beach time, with visits to Chichen Itza, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and the capital of the Yucatan, Merida.
  • Highlights:
    • Guided tours of Chichen Itza and Tulum’s clifftop ruins.
    • Swim in refreshing cenotes and relax on the beaches of Playa del Carmen.
    • Experience local Yucatecan cuisine and vibrant towns like Bacalar and Campeche.
  • Why Choose This Tour: Great for those who want a focused exploration of the Yucatan with a mix of adventure and relaxation.

3. Explore Travel: Contrasts of Mexico

  • Tour Overview: This 15-day tour takes you on a journey through the historical and cultural delights that Mexico has to offer, visiting historical centres of the Aztecs, Zapotecs and Maya. From the energetic capital,  Mexico City,  to the vibrancy of colonial Oaxaca and the depths of Palenque jungle, you will experience ancient and modern Mexico before crossing the border into Guatemala and Belize. Soak up the real flavour for local life, before filling up on tacos and tequila. Book this tour in October to see Mexico at its most vibrant on our Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) departure and witness the unique celebration.
  • Highlights:
    • Marvel at Mayan ruins and get closer to Latin America’s mysterious heritage at these iconic sites.
    • Soak up colonial charm and visit idyllic cities like Oaxaca and San Cristobal, soaking up local life in the Zocalos and dipping into artisanal markets.
    • See the Sumidero Canyon by taking  a boat trip through this towering gorge, spotting wildlife along the way.
  • Why Choose This Tour: Explore Travel offers a balanced mix of guided excursions and free time, allowing you to customize your experience. The small group size ensures personalized attention and opportunities to connect with like-minded travelers.

Each of these tours offers a unique way to explore the Mexico and Yucatan, providing a mix of guided adventure and independent discovery that perfectly suits the region’s diverse offerings.