Stunning beach landscapes and swaying palms may steal the gaze of many visiting Cancun, but look further and discover awe-inspiring underground caves, eco-parks, and ancient Mayan ruins on a Cancun excursion. Our top Cancun excursions, tours, and activities you can’t miss.
Explore the underground caves of Rio Secreto
One of Mexico’s most recent discoveries, the Rio Secreto is an underground cave system and nature preserve. Walk and swim in waist-deep water through 12 km of underground rivers with passageways arched with stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal formations. Take a guided tour and explore this hidden, natural wonder located just outside of Cancun in Playa del Carmen.
Xcaret Park
Part nature reserve and part theme park, Xcaret was built on an archaeological site of the same name. Spend the day exploring natural underground rivers, jungle trails, coves and natural pools, and visit Mayan-themed attractions for a cultural and educational family-friendly adventure.
Chichen Itza
Discover the lost Mayan civilization, culture, and architectural ruins of Chichen Itza. Amidst the ancient city is El Castillo or Temple of Kukulcan, a pyramid built by the Mayans that dates back to 750 A.D. which served as a monumental representation of the Mayan calendar. Eighteen steps for each month and 365 steps on all four sides of the pyramid for each day of the year.
Twice a year, on the spring and autumn equinoxes, a shadow in the shape of a serpent is cast on the pyramid. When the sun sets, the serpent makes its way down the steps to eventually meet a stone serpent head at the base of the pyramid. Take a tour through this world heritage site, a true testament to the brilliance of the Mayan people.
Isla Mujeres
Spend the day on Isla Mujeres, a small island just a short ferry ride away from Cancun. Snorkel or dive the crystal clear beaches and MUSA, the underwater museum, relax on the white sand North Beach, explore the island on a golf cart (the island’s main form of transportation), try one of the many dining options, and shop the markets.
With so much to do here, you may even want to consider spending an extra day here to do a catamaran tour or sailing trip to admire Isla Mujeres just a little bit longer.
With a horizon of blue skies and matching shores, Cancun’s beauty knows no limit. Experience everything Cancun has to offer from stunning beachscapes and lush jungles to underground rivers and ruins.
