The Riches of the Mexican Riviera - Discover the stunning landscape and culture of Riviera Maya
One of the most traveled countries in the world, Mexico is rich in culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Located along the Great Mayan Reef, the second longest barrier reef system in the world, Riviera Maya offers pristine, coastal landscape alongside luxury travel resorts. Whether your ideal vacation involves adventures in nature, relaxing poolside, or both, there is an endless array of activities for individuals, couples and families. Fall in love with the opulence of the Mexican Riviera.
A stunning deserted pier in the turquoise sea.
Scenic Beaches and Sparkling Seascapes
Striking beaches and azure seas are what often lure travelers to Riviera Maya. Aside from lounging in the tropical sun and splashing in the warm Caribbean ocean, there are many beachside activities available. Horseback riding is a beloved pastime amongst visitors. Whether it is a romantic sunset ride or your daughter’s dream come true, riding upon an elegant steed along a beautiful coastline is sure to please. Sailing is another popular activity that can be as thrilling as it can be relaxing. There is an incomparable tranquility that can only be found in the open ocean. Your adventure is what you make of it.
Some of the colorful local boats in the harbor.
Snorkeling Along the Great Mayan Reef
With one of the richest ecosystems on the planet, snorkeling along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System takes you into a breathtaking world of exotic sea life. The best snorkeling is located where the coral reef resides so it is best to avoid sandy beaches as there is little to no coral in these areas (unless you enjoy gazing upon miles of sand). Akumal and El Dorado Resort are two of the most accessible snorkeling beaches. This picturesque reef is home to creatures such as sea turtles, octopus, starfish, sting rays and many species of tropical fish. Even dolphins inhabit this reef, weaving gracefully through the water like an aquatic ballet. Guided snorkeling tours are also available and often provide equipment with the guarantee that you will get the most out of your snorkeling experience.
Charter a boat to take you to the hidden coves only accessible from sea.
Swimming in the Turquoise Pools of the Cenotes
Surrounded by the verdant vegetation of the jungle, the Cenotes are large fresh water wells that were created by rainwater slowly dissolving the limestone of the jungle floor. Located in several parts of equatorial Mexico, Kantun Chi is arguably the best Cenote ecological park in Riviera Maya. This exquisite natural formation offers seclusion, guided tours, and delicious cuisine. Much less populated than many of the other Cenote parks in the Yucatan, Kantun Chi allows a deeper connection with its crystal clear pools, cathedral-like grottos and exotic flora and fauna. Jungle tours are also available, educating hikers on the remarkable biodiversity of the Mexican rainforest. A magical adventure for all ages, the Cenotes may be your new favorite destination.
An ancient Mayan ruin in the Riviera Maya.
Ziplining Through the Jungle
Riviera Maya has access to the fastest, longest and highest ziplines in Mexico. For those travelers who need a little adrenaline in their lives, ziplining tours are a safe and exhilarating adventure. The surreal sensation of weightlessly gliding through the jungle canopy is a visceral experience. Feel the warm, tropical air caress your cheeks as monkeys are perched in the trees above and rainbow colored birds fly all around you. Many zipline tours provide a meal and also include a refreshing dip in the Cenotes. From flying high in the canopy to swimming beneath the jungle, these tours have it all.
Archeological Adventures
Archeology is one of Riviera Maya's largest tourist attractions. Perfect for the history buff, The Instituto Nacional de Archeological operates several archaeological sites, the closest being Tulum located on the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. The walled city of Tulum was one of the last places built by the Mayans and a beautiful vision of ancient architecture set against an exquisite coastal backdrop. Traveling further inland, visitors can experience the famous stepped pyramids of Mayan Civilization. The ruins of Chichen Itza and Coba are both rich in history, architecture, art, philosophy, early mathematics and astronomy. A stunning sight, especially for avid photographers, these archeological adventures are as captivating as they are educational.
Traditionally decorated bowls sold by the locals at the market.
World Class Cuisine
Home to several restaurants and all-inclusive resorts, good food is just a stone's throw away. The resorts offer world class cuisine consisting of the freshest and most authentic ingredients. During the off season, resorts reduce prices making high class dining an effortless and money saving experience. Because of the Yucatan Peninsula's geographical location, settlers and explorers from South America, the Caribbean and even Europe have passed through and contributed the flavors of their countries to Mexico. This melting pot of cultures has contributed to the region’s truly distinctive food palate. Yaxche is a restaurant that boasts traditional Mayan cuisine incorporating legumes, root vegetables and indigenous plants, such as chaya, into many of their dishes. Blue Diamond and Canibal Royal Beach Resort also display a delicious array of local and fusion dishes. The circular restaurant Ambar, sometimes offers live music, giving diners a multi-sensory experience. If you want to experience a more local and casual dining experience, Playas Agua Chili is a small cafe that serves fresh and simple meals, specifically seafood based. If you wish to taste the flavors of Mexico's rich history or enjoy the culinary perfection of high class resorts, there is something for every taste bud in Riviera Maya.
A stunning deserted pier in the turquoise sea.
Scenic Beaches and Sparkling Seascapes
Striking beaches and azure seas are what often lure travelers to Riviera Maya. Aside from lounging in the tropical sun and splashing in the warm Caribbean ocean, there are many beachside activities available. Horseback riding is a beloved pastime amongst visitors. Whether it is a romantic sunset ride or your daughter’s dream come true, riding upon an elegant steed along a beautiful coastline is sure to please. Sailing is another popular activity that can be as thrilling as it can be relaxing. There is an incomparable tranquility that can only be found in the open ocean. Your adventure is what you make of it.
Some of the colorful local boats in the harbor.
Snorkeling Along the Great Mayan Reef
With one of the richest ecosystems on the planet, snorkeling along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System takes you into a breathtaking world of exotic sea life. The best snorkeling is located where the coral reef resides so it is best to avoid sandy beaches as there is little to no coral in these areas (unless you enjoy gazing upon miles of sand). Akumal and El Dorado Resort are two of the most accessible snorkeling beaches. This picturesque reef is home to creatures such as sea turtles, octopus, starfish, sting rays and many species of tropical fish. Even dolphins inhabit this reef, weaving gracefully through the water like an aquatic ballet. Guided snorkeling tours are also available and often provide equipment with the guarantee that you will get the most out of your snorkeling experience.
Charter a boat to take you to the hidden coves only accessible from sea.
Swimming in the Turquoise Pools of the Cenotes
Surrounded by the verdant vegetation of the jungle, the Cenotes are large fresh water wells that were created by rainwater slowly dissolving the limestone of the jungle floor. Located in several parts of equatorial Mexico, Kantun Chi is arguably the best Cenote ecological park in Riviera Maya. This exquisite natural formation offers seclusion, guided tours, and delicious cuisine. Much less populated than many of the other Cenote parks in the Yucatan, Kantun Chi allows a deeper connection with its crystal clear pools, cathedral-like grottos and exotic flora and fauna. Jungle tours are also available, educating hikers on the remarkable biodiversity of the Mexican rainforest. A magical adventure for all ages, the Cenotes may be your new favorite destination.
An ancient Mayan ruin in the Riviera Maya.
Ziplining Through the Jungle
Riviera Maya has access to the fastest, longest and highest ziplines in Mexico. For those travelers who need a little adrenaline in their lives, ziplining tours are a safe and exhilarating adventure. The surreal sensation of weightlessly gliding through the jungle canopy is a visceral experience. Feel the warm, tropical air caress your cheeks as monkeys are perched in the trees above and rainbow colored birds fly all around you. Many zipline tours provide a meal and also include a refreshing dip in the Cenotes. From flying high in the canopy to swimming beneath the jungle, these tours have it all.
Archeological Adventures
Archeology is one of Riviera Maya's largest tourist attractions. Perfect for the history buff, The Instituto Nacional de Archeological operates several archaeological sites, the closest being Tulum located on the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. The walled city of Tulum was one of the last places built by the Mayans and a beautiful vision of ancient architecture set against an exquisite coastal backdrop. Traveling further inland, visitors can experience the famous stepped pyramids of Mayan Civilization. The ruins of Chichen Itza and Coba are both rich in history, architecture, art, philosophy, early mathematics and astronomy. A stunning sight, especially for avid photographers, these archeological adventures are as captivating as they are educational.
Traditionally decorated bowls sold by the locals at the market.
World Class Cuisine
Home to several restaurants and all-inclusive resorts, good food is just a stone's throw away. The resorts offer world class cuisine consisting of the freshest and most authentic ingredients. During the off season, resorts reduce prices making high class dining an effortless and money saving experience. Because of the Yucatan Peninsula's geographical location, settlers and explorers from South America, the Caribbean and even Europe have passed through and contributed the flavors of their countries to Mexico. This melting pot of cultures has contributed to the region’s truly distinctive food palate. Yaxche is a restaurant that boasts traditional Mayan cuisine incorporating legumes, root vegetables and indigenous plants, such as chaya, into many of their dishes. Blue Diamond and Canibal Royal Beach Resort also display a delicious array of local and fusion dishes. The circular restaurant Ambar, sometimes offers live music, giving diners a multi-sensory experience. If you want to experience a more local and casual dining experience, Playas Agua Chili is a small cafe that serves fresh and simple meals, specifically seafood based. If you wish to taste the flavors of Mexico's rich history or enjoy the culinary perfection of high class resorts, there is something for every taste bud in Riviera Maya.