Cancun, Mexico | 5 Must-Do Day Trips From Cancun

Cancun is famous for its sandy beaches, active entertainment during the night, and numerous resorts that are fully inclusive. Many tourists know only this area, but there is much more that awaits them just beyond it. Just several hours away from Cancun, one can find itself surrounded by mind-blowing ancient architectural masterpieces, enthralling ecological attractions, and historical Mayan towns, among others. To help you plan your next fun-filled day trip, here are 5 of the most recommended trips from Cancun that will bring you closer to the Yucatan Peninsula’s culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty.

1. Chichen Itza

However, the most popular attraction that should not be missed during the visit to Yucatan is the extraordinary Chichen Itza. This is a large ancient city constructed by the people of Maya and is among the world’s seven wonders. The distance of traveling there is about 93 kilometers and it will take approximately 2.5 hours of driving from Cancun. The ruins also have huge complexes like the El Castillo pyramid, the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and many others, and it will take you about 3-4 hours to visit all of them. Notice how far they have gone in constructing astronomical features in structures. To be able to enjoy a panoramic view across the site, perhaps you should climb the El Castillo. And though this is one of the least populated cities, there is much to discover about the evolved Mayan culture that created this grand city. This is one place that everyone who visits Cancun should ensure they take their time to visit, Chichen Itza.

2. Swim in a Cenote

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to a plethora of intricate, mystical, and breathtaking cenotes. These are the sinkholes formed in freshwater bodies due to the sinking of limestone caves. Most make the hearts of their possessors feel like secret gardens containing the most clear turquoise water that one has ever come across. Two astonishing and very beautiful caves that are very important and must go visit are the Ik Kil Cenote and the Dzitnup Cenote near Chichen Itza. Descend through staircases in Ik Kil to a cathedral-like cave with vines falling down the stone cliffs. Swim in the perfectly refreshing water, which is enclosed by vegetation and located high above. At Dzitnup, informally known as the “Cenote of Vampires”, one swims through a cave and passes through various stalactites and stalagmites. Next, swim a snorkeling trail between the dark cavern and the section of the clear, sun-lit lagoon that contains an underwater tunnel.

3. Tulum Ruins & Beach

Tulum, 2 hours south of Cancun, is also another must-see, especially if it is the postcard-perfect seaside cliff ruins adjacent to white sand beaches. Stroll through incredible archeological sites such as the El Castillo pyramid and the Temple of the Wind God that stands almost on the shore of the sea with azure water. The views are spectacular. For more tourist attractions, go down to relax at the public beach with palm-thatched roof huts all over it. Swim near the shore and go snorkeling to see beautiful tropical fish and turtles around the coral reef. Be sure to sample marquesitas crepes among other street foods when doing beach fun and necessary refueling. Tulum is fabulous for a day trip as it has ruins, beautiful beaches, and a quaint small town that provides a good mix of culture, outdoors, and relaxation.

4. Isla Mujeres

If you want to spend a few days in the tropics, consider taking a half-hour ferry ride northeast of Cancun to the Isla Mujeres. This is because this island is 5 miles long and only 1/2 a mile wide, and the only mode of transport used on this island is golf carts or mopeds. There are several shops and the best Mexican cuisine can be tasted in a small area which is downtown. Then head to Playa Norte, which has ranked high as one of the best beaches in Mexico time and time again. A beach where you can spend hours lying on the soft white sand and enjoying the warm turquoise waters any shade of blue and green. Cycle along the Santa Monica Pier and stop at “Muscle Beach” where there are open-air gyms on the beach. Go south to escape the crowds towards more quiet secluded cove beaches for snorkeling. However, Isla Mujeres can easily be visited as a day trip outside the hotel zone, offering the relaxed island atmosphere that you need during your vacation.

5. Ek Balam

If you are interested in archeology, you will enjoy visiting the ancient Mayan ruins of Ek Balam which is located in the North of Cancun, approximately 1.5 hours away. While not as grand as Chichen Itza, Ek Balam is the perfect place to climb fascinating structures in a rather private setting. But be sure not to lose out on climbing over 150 tiny and rather steep steps to the El Torre where you’ll be having spectacular views of the green jungles around. Even though the faces of the buildings are rather plain, stucco details skillfully carved grab interest in the structures on the site. And there are several interesting and holy cenotes in the surrounding area. Apart from the substantial crowds that throng the central plaza, wander down less-traveled roads and alleys into the forest where you can see monkeys leaping from one tree branch to the other. Ek Balam is not heavily tourist populated and thus makes for an exciting day exploring new ruins.

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