Embark on a road trip through Riviera Maya and discover the best of Mexico’s history, culture, and nature. From majestic ancient Mayan ruins to pristine sand beaches, there’s something for everyone.
Explore Coba and Tulum, visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, take a ferry to Cozumel Island, relax in Puerto Morelos, and experience the magic of Xcaret Eco Park. Start planning your unforgettable Riviera Maya adventure today!
Coba and Tulum Road Trip
One of the best road trips to take in Riviera Maya is the Coba and Tulum route. Both Coba and Tulum are ancient Mayan ruins that offer a glimpse into Mexico’s rich history. Start the day early by renting a car and heading to Coba, which is about two hours away from Cancun.
The drive is scenic, and you’ll pass through small towns and villages along the way.
Coba was once a thriving Mayan city and is known for its massive pyramid, Nohoch Mul. Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramid for stunning views of the surrounding jungle. After exploring Coba, head to Tulum, which is about 45 minutes away.
Tulum is a walled city that was once a major seaport for the Mayans. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, including the Temple of the Wind, which is perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
For nature lovers, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a must-visit destination.
The reserve is located south of Tulum and covers over 1.3 million acres of protected land and sea. The drive to the reserve takes about an hour from Tulum, but it’s worth it for the stunning scenery and wildlife you’ll see along the way.
Once inside the reserve, you can take a guided tour or explore on your own.
The reserve is home to over 350 bird species, as well as manatees, crocodiles, and dolphins. There are also several hiking trails and secluded beaches where you can relax and take in the beauty of the reserve.
Cozumel Island
Cozumel is a beautiful island located off the coast of Riviera Maya. The island is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling. To get to Cozumel, you’ll need to take a ferry from Playa del Carmen, which takes about 45 minutes.
Once on the island, you can rent a car and explore at your own pace.
Drive along the scenic coastal road, which offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Stop at some of the island’s best beaches, like Playa Palancar or Playa Mia, or visit the Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, where you can see crocodiles and sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos is a small fishing village located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
The village is known for its relaxed atmosphere, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reef. The drive to Puerto Morelos from Cancun takes about 30 minutes and is a scenic route through small towns and villages.
Once in Puerto Morelos, you can relax on the beach, swim in the turquoise waters, or go snorkeling on the coral reef.
The reef is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful fish. You can also explore the town’s main square, which is surrounded by restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine.
Xcaret Eco Park
Xcaret Eco Park is a must-visit destination for families and nature lovers.
The park is located south of Playa del Carmen and covers over 200 acres of protected land and sea. The drive to Xcaret takes about 15 minutes from Playa del Carmen and is a scenic route through small towns and the jungle.
Once inside the Xcaret Eco Park, there are endless activities to enjoy, including swimming in underground rivers, snorkeling with marine life, and exploring the park’s many exhibits and amazing shows.
The park also offers a glimpse into Mexico’s rich culture, with traditional dance performances and Mayan ruins to explore. With so much to see and do, a visit to Xcaret Eco Park is a full-day adventure that the whole family will love.
