Things to Do in Riviera Maya / Playa del Carmen

Discover the archaeological site of Chichen Itza on this full-day tour. Then, swim in a cenote and explore the town of Valladolid.

Enjoy a guided excursion in Coba, Chichen Itza, and Valladolid, and swim in a wonderful cenote.

Dive into Mexico's premier snorkelling spot at Puerto Morelos. Explore the reef and savor local cuisine in a beachside restaurant.

On this National Geographic Day Tour, explore Tankah Park in Mexico's Riviera Maya. After an orientation, swim in two cenotes, once considered portals to the Mayan underworld. Enjoy a canoeing session at the third cenote, then end with a refreshing swim at the forth cenote.With insights from a National Geographic guide, trek through the jungle to Cenote Cueva and Cenote Piraña for a refreshing dip. You'll also visit Cenote Naval for an adventurous canoeing session and Cenote Azul for another invigorating swim in its crystal-clear waters. These cenotes were not only sources of fresh water for the ancient Maya but were also believed to be passageways to Xibalba, the Mayan underworld, and were sites for important rituals.Next, head over to a traditional Mayan house to learn about the Melipona bee, a stingless bee that has been cultivated for centuries for its medicinal honey. Enjoy exclusive access to a traditional Mayan kitchen and take part in a demonstration of the art of tortilla-making, where you'll get hands-on with shaping the dough and learn about the secrets of ‘masa' (corn dough). Then, tuck into a buffet meal featuring dishes rooted in the local heritage that highlight the day's discoveries and flavours.Finally, hike to a fifth cenote, learning about the discovery and preservation of these natural sites. Spanning 300 hectares, Tankah Park's cenotes and forests offer Mayan heritage and ecological diversity. This tour also supports the local community and promotes sustainable tourism, helping to preserve these remarkable lands.

Explore the wonders of the Mesoamerican Reef System on this exclusive National Geographic Day Tour. Led by marine specialists, you will have the unique opportunity to snorkel and witness the impact of humanity on the reef and see coral bleaching. This is followed by an insightful talk on actionable steps for reef restoration.Setting sail when the waters are at their calmest, you'll venture to two different reefs, each affected by bleaching due to global warming, water pollution, and microplastics. Visit the reef known as “El Meco”, which boasts the youngest corals, making it a particularly special attraction.The boats used for the tour are certified by Blue Flag for sustainable tourism, ensuring your voyage aligns with eco-conscious practices. Along the way, you'll also get to know the local fauna and savour a delicious burrito lunch. During this tour, you will be inspired to protect these marine ecosystems, which is the aim of the National Geographic-sponsored Pristine Seas project. This project has carried out expeditions to Banco Chinchorro, a significant part of the Mesoamerican Reef System. This project's work underscores the importance of safeguarding marine environments from human influence while protecting the last wild places in our oceans.By joining this tour, you will engage with the vital importance of preserving and protecting the precious Mesoamerican Reef System. See for yourself the marvels of the ocean and gain a profound understanding of coral reefs and their critical role in the biosphere.

As evening draws in, Xcaret awakens with their Mexico Espectacular show – a night where colours and textures aren't just for your eyes, but also for your palate. With an exclusive meal included, you'll journey through the heart of Mexican-cuisine, indulging in dishes crafted from sustainably-sourced, organic ingredients. Treat your taste buds to an experience just as exciting as the show itself. Menu as follows:Appetisers: House salad, smoked cream cheeseStarters: Mexican truffle mushrooms, prawn and Spanish sausage salbut, tuna aguachileMain courses: Caribbean lobster, roast pork tacos, duck magret with sauceDessert: Xcaret flower pot (sponge cake)Drinks: Glass of white wine, glass of red wine, glass of sparkling wine, flavoured water or soft drink

A day of dolphins and discovery awaits at Isla Mujeres. Sail to this little slice of paradise off the Mexican mainland and enjoy a 50-minute dolphin encounter that includes 10-minutes in the water. After a thrilling experience, it's time to unwind. Kick back in an exclusive beach club, complete with a buffet lunch and open bar, or take a tour of the island – the choice is yours.

Make a splash at Mexico's newest and wildest waterpark. Brimming with adrenaline-fuelled slides, family-friendly flumes, lazy rivers and plenty of sunbathing space, Aqua Nick® has something to keep everyone smiling. And it wouldn't be Nickelodeon™ without some wacky activities. Think sliming sessions, climbing walls and pop-up games with your favourite Nick® characters – Spongebob Squarepants, PAW Patrol and more.

Experience UNESCO-listed Chichén Itzá. Have an open bar during lunch. Go in the luminous underground waters of Cenote Hubiku. Lastly, stop in colorful Valladolid.

Get the most knowledge of the archaeological site of Chichen Itza with an expert guide, avoiding tourist traps or shopping stops.

Garrafon Natural Reef Park is just a short distance away from Cancun. On this excursion, you'll be whisked off to Isla Mujeres for a day of activities, snorkelling, a dolphin swim and some beach relaxation. There'll also be plenty of activities to choose from such as snorkelling, ziplines, kayaking and more.

Step into the world of the ancient Maya with a visit to the ruins of Tulum on this full-day tour. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, this iconic site is famous for its dramatic setting – think turquoise waters, white sands, and centuries-old stone structures bathed in morning sunlight. Then, snorkel among the corals of Turtle Bay, spotting sea turtles and tropical fish along the way. Wrap up your tour with a dip in a freshwater cenote, surrounded by stalagmites and stalactites in the heart of the Yucatan jungle.

The cool rush of freshwater as you plunge into the Chukum Cenote awaits you on this flavour-packed tour that explores the Yucatan Peninsula's colourful culture and cuisine. After arriving in the pastel-painted town of Valladolid, you'll head to a lively local market where the air is thick with fragrant spices and the stalls overflow with fresh produce. Sofia, one of our local expert guides, says “Valladolid's market isn't just a place to shop, it's where you will feel the heart of Yucatan. The stories, the flavours, the people…it all starts there.”You'll head to a traditional mill to discover the ancient art of transforming corn into masa – the base of Mexico's famous tortilla. Followed up with a stroll down the Calzada de los Frailes, one of Valladolid's most picturesque and historic streets, lined with colourful colonial houses, artisan shops, and boutique cafes. After you've worked up an appetite, it's time to get hands-on with workshops focusing on ancient Mayan cooking techniques. You'll master the art of salsa, press your own tortillas, and learn about the beloved cochinita pibil, a classic pork dish that's slow-cooked underground over hot stones. Taste the fruits of your labour as you tuck into a buffet lunch bursting with those rich traditional Yucatecan flavours. After lunch, you'll take part in a traditional Mayan ceremony before a well-earned cool-down dip in the mystical caves of the jungle cenote in Hacienda Chukum. Finish the day by delving further into the heritage with a wander through a garden to harvest a few fresh picks before visiting a thatched-roof space and traditional Mayan house, each offering a glimpse into daily life shaped by the Yucatan community.

Discover ancient Mayan cities, swim in a crystal-clear cenote, and savour traditional Yucatecan cuisine. Experience the wonders of the Yucatan today!

Explore ancient Mayan ruins, climb Ek Balam pyramid, and visit colonial Valladolid. Experience Yucatan's history and culture. Reserve your spot today!

Uncover the secrets of Coba's ancient Maya ruins with a private guide. Climb Nohoch Mul pyramid and cycle through history. Reserve your spot today!

Uncover the mysteries of ancient Mayan city Chichen Itza with an expert guide. Explore iconic landmarks and enjoy a delicious lunch. Reserve your spot today.

Journey into the Mayan past with a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chichen Itza. Paired with a certified guide, you'll unearth the secrets of Mexico's top archaeological site, visit a typical Mayan cenote for a swim and take your pick from a tasty buffet lunch. And, if you opt for the Deluxe ticket, you'll stop to visit Valladolid and tuck into your buffet lunch in a local restaurant there.

Dig into your next flavour fix at Señor Frog's, a lively restaurant and bar famous for its vibrant atmosphere, tasty plates and fun-filled parties. With a drink, entree and main course of your choice included, you're all set for a feast in this lively hotspot. But the real fun kicks in with the entertainment – think live music, dancing and games that get everyone involved.

Get ready for an evening at the Coco Bongo Sunset Show, a family-friendly twist on the iconic Coco Bongo experience. This event delivers the same electrifying performances and impressive audiovisual displays as the nighttime events, but with an extra focus on family fun. Adults can take their pick from an open bar, while kids have access to unlimited soft drinks – it's the perfect way to spend an evening out together.

Discover the best of Riviera Maya with a tour to Tulum, Akumal Bay, and a cenote. Experience history, nature, and adventure in one day.

Take a trip to Akumal Monkey Sanctuary for a guided tour. Meet the animals that call this place home – including over 20 different species – and hear about how they were rescued. You'll see colourful macaws, friendly snakes and playful monkeys, as well as learn about their natural behaviours from a knowledgeable guide. Plus, you'll find out about the sanctuary's conservation efforts and why they're so important. Just a heads-up, transport isn't included in this tour.

Dive into a world of adventure with the Xel-Ha Light tour, designed with families in mind. At Xel-Ha natural aquarium park, you can see dolphins up close, snorkel in a cove, and glide down a river on a waterslide. Climb the lighthouse for panoramic views before zooming down the waterslide. Check out caves, cenotes, and grottos, or go for a bike ride around the park. With round-trip transportation and all your gear, including life jackets and towels included, all you need is your sense of adventure.

Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is loaded with wild landscapes, and you'll have a chance to dive into them on this full-day itinerary. You'll tick off everything from a visit to a monkey sanctuary to an ATV ride in the jungle, with some snorkelling in Akumal Bay thrown in for good measure. Javier, an expert local guide, says “this activity is perfect if you want to leave the big cities and hotels behind for a while and experience Mexico's greener side. Cenotes, wildlife, beaches, jungle – you'll encounter them all.”You'll start your day with a visit to the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary, a place where rescued animals from around the area are looked after and treated. You'll be shown around by one of the people who work here, and you'll be introduced to some of the primates and birds currently being cared for. Then, you'll switch things up a few gears for an ATV ride through the jungle. You can get behind the controls of a vehicle as you head to a cenote tucked away within the greenery. These natural, freshwater sinkholes are unique to this part of Mexico, and your guide will tell you about their cultural significance before your chance to hop in for a swim.When you're done here, you'll make your way to today's final stop, Akumal Bay. This sandy spot is known from Tulum to Cancun as one of the area's top snorkelling spots. And that's exactly what you can do here. To make things even better, Akumel Bay is known for its native turtle population, so it's likely you'll share the waters with these gentle reptiles during your visit.

Discover the natural wonders of Ki'ichpam Xunáan Eco Park and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Yun Chen. Explore lush jungle trails, observe local wildlife, and experience authentic Mayan culture.

Explore Puerto Morelos' charming markets and boutiques on this guided shopping tour with authentic taco tastings. Discover local crafts, meet artisans, and enjoy flavours.

Swim alongside gentle sea turtles in Akumal Bay and explore the mystical Cenote Nohoch on this eco-adventure. Experience Mexico's natural wonders with expert guides.

Ever wanted to know the science behind the perfect pint? On this tour of Tulum Brewery, you'll not only learn the theory, you'll also get a hands-on workshop, creating and bottling your very own blend of beer. A Master Brewer will give you a grand tour of Mexico's first craft brewery to use seawater in their brew.You'll begin with quick overview of the whole process and even take a sip of beer directly from the tank – it doesn't get fresher than that. Then you're into the classroom for a lesson on the theory of beer, where you'll be guided through various beer tastings to identify the characteristics of different brews, like colour, bitterness, aroma and flavour. Once you know the science, you're ready to create your own personalised blend of beer – you even get to design your own label to slap on the bottle. Round off your tour with a guided tasting of four craft beers, alongside some Mexican bites like tacos and tostadas.

The Yucatán Peninsula's most pristine archaeological sites – Coba – needs to be seen to be believed. An expert guide will introduce you to the remarkably well-preserved ruins that include detailed rock carvings, astronomical charts and the Great Pyramid – one of Mexico's tallest Maya temples. After, visit a Maya village for a dip in a cenote and a lesson in ancient Maya traditions, before tucking in to a buffet lunch with regional dishes.

Hurtling through the Mayan jungle on an ATV is the name of the game on this express adventure tour. For a quick burst of adrenaline and fun, this is the perfect getaway for thrill-seekers on a tight schedule. In just 1 hour and 20 minutes, you'll experience a 30-minute ATV ride through scenic trails, followed by a 25-minute complementary activity - either a refreshing swim in a natural body of water (Only for Playa del Carmen or Puerto Morelos) or an optional Jet Boat ride (available only in Cancún). Plus, you'll have a packed lunch included for when you need to refuel your energy levels after the action.

Ready to spice up your day? This tour of Puerto Morelos has it all—tacos, tequila, and a side of guac. Kick things off at Casco Viejo for a tequila tasting, with time to shop for souvenirs and snap pics by the iconic Puerto Morelos letters. Feast on a taco party with all the classics before rolling up your sleeves for a guacamole and Sikil Paak workshop at the Matea restaurant. Finally, you'll wrap things up with a traditional cochinita pibil demo, where you'll learn all about how this tasty slow-roasted pork dish is made.

Set sail on a luxury catamaran to Isla Mujeres for a day of adventure and relaxation. You'll enjoy an exclusive snorkel stop and swim in the Caribbean's A-list waters. Then, it's off to Zama Beach Club for some serious chill time, pool access, and a special brunch menu. With a unique itinerary and plenty of free time to explore, this exclusive experience combines luxury and fun on the Caribbean Sea.

The best of the Mexican Caribbean is calling on this exclusive boat trip to Isla Mujeres – think snorkelling, A-list landscapes, and pampering along the way. Maria, one of our expert, local guides says, "Isla Mujeres, or the 'Island of Women,' was once a sacred place for the Maya, who linked it to the goddess Ix Chel. These days, it's a sanctuary for sea turtles and sits right next to the UNESCO-sited Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, making it a prime spot for snorkelling, diving, and eco-adventures."Your day kicks off with a hotel pick-up and check-in at Marina Hacienda del Mar. After hopping aboard the exclusive TUI Collection catamaran, you'll cruise through the Mexican Caribbean waters, making your first stop to snorkel. The coral reefs here are something to shout about, plus, you'll likely spot tropical fish – and if you're lucky, maybe even a sea turtle. Kids over 8 can join in on the fun too.Next, you'll head to Isla Mujeres' downtown before arriving at our exclusive beach club, where it's relaxation to a T. Think unlimited drinks from the open bar, tasty appetisers, and a delicious grill buffet. If you're in the mood for a little adventure, a guided golf cart tour will take you to the southern tip of the island – perfect for those all-important holiday pics, with rugged coastline views and a lighthouse. After a day of exploring and unwinding, you'll sail back to the marina, soaking in the last views of the coast.

Set a course for the high life on this luxury catamaran cruise to Cancun's playground, Isla Mujeres. It's VIP all the way on this daytrip. You'll begin with a dedicated TUI check-in to board a brand-new catamaran that'll whisk you away to the island, just off Cancun's coastline. Stretch out and relax in the comfort of this adults-only boat, complete with an open bar. En route to Isla Mujeres, your crew will drop anchor at an exclusive snorkelling spot. The corals here are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest of its kind in the world, stretching from Mexico to Honduras – that's over 700 miles. Dive in for a swim or snorkel (equipment is provided) to look for resident sea turtles, rays and tropical fish.Once you've towelled off, you'll dock at the northwestern tip of Isla Mujeres and head to Zama Beach Club. There's an area reserved for your group here, making it feel like your own private Caribbean retreat. Swap the sea for a freshwater dip in the two pools, relax on the sunbeds and feast on fresh Mexican fare at an exclusive brunch. After you've finished splashing, eating or lounging at the club, the crew of the catamaran will sail you back to the mainland.

See Mexico's soul shine grabbing tickets on this Xcatet night tour. You'll start things off at the Mayan Village with Pre-Hispanic dances, then watch the Horse Exhibition, where charros and adelitas show off their skills on white Aztec horses – you'll love this UNESCO-recognized cultural tradition. And the highlight? Xcaret México Espectacular, with 300+ performers celebrating Mexico's rich history. Plus, enjoy access to the beach, natural pools, Butterfly Pavilion, Aviary, and Aquarium before the stars take centre stage.

Cancun is famous for its party scene. If you want to get to know this side of the city while out at sea, this adults-only cruise is just the thing you're looking for. You'll cast off from Cancun's harbour and sail along Mexico's Caribbean Coast. The crew will drop anchor for an hour in a secluded spot so you can go for a dip and try snorkelling. Onboard, they'll host games and competitions, too. What's more, the catamaran has a DJ and an open bar – cocktails and dancing, anyone?

Nature, culture, and flavour await you on this Riviera Maya tour. Your adventure begins at the Kaan Luum Lagoon, where the turquoise waters and lush mangroves invite you to relax. Next, you'll venture into the jungle to explore two incredible cenotes – refresh in the semi-open Mariposa cenote and explore a cavern-like cenote filled with stalactites. It'll blow your mind. After a taste of Mayan culture with a buffet lunch – plus a sweet demo on Melipona honey and cacao – you'll top things off with a traditional Mayan ceremony.

Experience an adrenaline-fuelled UTV ride, zip line course, and traditional liquor tasting in the Mayan jungle.

Discover the beauty of Yucatán with a guided tour. Swim in cenotes, zip-line, jump from platforms, taste tequila, and savour traditional Mayan snacks.

Savour the flavours of Mexico in Puerto Morelos. Enjoy a culinary tour featuring three types of tacos and a professional tequila tasting.

Embark on a thrilling ATV, zip line, and cenote jungle adventure at Extreme Adventure Eco Park.

Tick off two holiday must-do's with this boat trip and dolphin combo. You'll set sail early on a catamaran and the adventure starts before you even reach Isla Mujeres, with a snorkel at Meco Reef. Then, after a walk around downtown Mujeres, you'll head to Isla Discovery. Here, you can take advantage of a buffet lunch, beach club and an optional bike tour. Meet the friendly dolphins, with three packages to choose from:Catamaran + Dolphin Encounter: 15-minute briefing and 40-minute dolphin encounterCatamaran + Dolphin Swim Adventure: 15-minute briefing and 30-minute dolphin swim adventureCatamaran + Dolphin Royal Swim VIP: 15-minute briefing and 60-minute royal swim adventure, access to VIP lounge and Fantasy Snorkel

Hop aboard a super-speedy boat headed to Cozumel Island, where the turquoise waters of the Caribbean and its marine life are waiting. Soak up the breathtaking landscapes before snorkelling at two of the most famous reefs in the southern part of the island, Palancar and Colombia. They're separated by a couple of metres of open water, so you'll have wall-to-wall reef to explore. Next stop is the shores of El Cielo – which literally means ‘the sky' in English – as it's famous for its peaceful atmosphere and giant starfish population, which you'll find covering much of the ocean floor. You'll also have the chance to see stingrays and other sea creatures during your time here. Afterwards, there'll be some time to relax and check out the views from El Cielito Sandbar, before heading towards the centre of Cozumel.For lunch, you'll get to try some of the region's typical dishes at a vibrant, local restaurant with an ocean view, before rounding off the day with free time to wander around Cozumel Centre. You've the option of a quick tour here – including a visit to the central clock tower at the heart of the island. Then jump back on the boat to sail back to Playa del Carmen, where your transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

Get in touch with nature's gems in Mexico's Yucatán. Start your day with breakfast at a 16th-century Hacienda, soaking in authentic relics from the past, before hopping on a boat to Las Coloradas. Here, lagoons burst in shades of yellow, orange, and pink – it's total Insta gold. Plus, get the inside scoop on how these colours pop. You'll cruise through mangroves, spot birds – maybe even a flamingo – and wrap it all up with a delicious meal in a fishing village with epic views of Rio Lagartos.

The feeling of being at one with nature when you swim with dolphins is unbeatable. And this exclusive half-day dolphin experience offers that and so much more. You'll get the opportunity to meet, interact and learn all about these highly intelligent creatures. Spend up to 50 minutes in the water before moving on to see the manatees. There's also a short catamaran cruise and a tasty buffet included.

Treat yourself to Mexican magic snorkelling in the reefs near Marina El Cid Puerto Morelos – be seriously wowed by the vibrant marine life, and colourful corals. You might even spot seahorses. Then, you'll be whisked away to Rio Secreto, a natural reserve with lush trails, crystal-clear pools and cave systems – yes, you'll see stalactites and stalagmites. Wrap things up with a toast of traditional Mexican liqueur, Xtabentún, and refuel with a delicious buffet lunch.

Get set for a half-day adventure designed for smaller groups, offering personalized immersion in nature's heart. Experience the thrill of zip-lining through lush jungle vistas and experience the challenge of rappelling down into the clear pools of the cenote, where the natural beauty and tranquil waters will leave you mesmerized. Afterward, indulge in a refreshing swim and snorkel, marveling at nature's wonders.

Celebrate like a local on Mexico's biggest and most vibrant holiday with this Day of the Dead outing. You'll dive into ancient traditions, and get a memorable glimpse into one of Mexico's most significant cultural events. Lucas, one of our local expert guides, says, ‘Dià de los Muertos is like a family reunion – but with an otherworldly twist. It's a joyful celebration where families honour loved ones through storytelling, music, dancing and of course, delicious food.' Kick off your journey by plunging into the crystal-clear waters of Mexico's mystical cenote – an underground river that's the perfect refreshing start to your adventure. After your swim, you'll sample traditional festival foods like 'pan de muerto', a sweet bread baked in the shape of skulls or bones, as well as savoury tamales, both believed to comfort the souls of the departed. Throughout the day, you'll also learn about cool traditions like ‘offrendas' – offerings to loved ones – and the significance of bright orange marigold flowers. Next, roll up your sleeves and get hands-on with Mexican culinary magic by making your own guacamole. Sip on local wines while a chef spills the secrets behind regional flavours and cooking techniques. Lucas adds, ‘We whip up all the favourite foods and drinks of our loved ones to show we still care. Plus, we even set out their favourite snacks on the altars – you know, just in case they get hungry!' The tour wraps up with a dinner that captures the essence of the day, offering unforgettable memories and a whole new appreciation for Mexico's rich cultural heritage.

Book here to swim with whale sharks in Playa Mujeres from Cancun. Enjoy a guided tour with breakfast box, soft drinks, boat trip, and lifevest provided.

Discover Akumal, a sanctuary for turtles, on a private tour. Swim with turtles, explore a spectacular cenote and unwind on the beach after your adventure.