riviera maya ruins tour

THE 10 BEST Riviera Maya Tours & Excursions

Riviera maya tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Cancun ATV Jungle Adventure, Ziplines, Cenote and Tequila Tasting

2. Full Day Tulum Ruins Tour Cenote and Swimming with Turtles

3. Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves

4. Cancun Best ATV Tour, Ziplines and Cenote Swim with Lunch

5. Tulum Day Trip Mayan Ruins With Cenote Swim

6. 2-Hour Snorkeling in Two Spots of Tulum's Reef

7. Horseback Riding Tour with ATV, Ziplines Cenote and Lunch

8. Half-Day Sea Turtle and Cenote Snorkeling Tour from Cancun & Riviera Maya

9. Cirque du Soleil JOYA Admission Tickets

10. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Small Group Day Trip

11. Adventure in the Mayan Jungle with ATV and Zip Line in Tulum

12. Xcaret Park Day Trip with Priority Access and Cultural Night Show

13. Isla Mujeres Cruise with Beach Club, Snorkel, Lunch and Open Bar

14. ATV, Ziplines & Cenote. Lunch & Transportation included

15. Playa del Carmen Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim and Mayan Village Visit

16. Half Day Luxury Sailing Experience in Riviera Maya with Open Bar

17. Chichén Itzá, Cenote and Valladolid with Lunch and transportation.

18. Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour

19. Half-day Cenote Adventure with Ziplining, ATV & lunch

20. Mexican Cooking from Scratch and Mezcal Tasting in a Local Home in Tulum

21. VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour

22. Swim with sea turtles

23. ATV Adventure, Interactive Bridges, Ziplines, Cenote and Lunch

24. Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins Reduced Group

25. Reef Snorkeling in National Park from Cancun with Beachside Lunch

26. Coba, Tulum Multun-Ha Cenote and Paradise Beach Reduced Group

27. Private Transfer to/from Cancun airport

28. Rio Secreto Underground River Tour with Crystal Caves

29. Chichen Private Experience

30. Xplor Park All-Inclusive Admission - With Lunch and Drinks

What travelers are saying.

• Mayan Ruins Tours from Cancun & Riviera Maya

Mayan Ruins Tours from Cancun & Riviera Maya

Travel back in time with a tour to chichen itza, coba or tulum.

We offer a basic Chichen Itza Mayan ruins tour  and additional options that include a light breakfast, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, a buffet lunch, a visit to a cenote you can swim in and a stop in the Magic Town (Pueblo Magico) of Valladolid. You must take a Chichen Itza tour  when on vacation in Cancun!

A Mayan ruins tour is an absolute MUST DO while in Cancun!

Visiting Cancun and not enjoying a Mayan ruins tour is like going to Egypt and not seeing the pyramids. Mayan ruin tours from Cancun bring you back in time over 1500 years to the height of the great Maya civilization. Our Chichen Itza Mayan ruins tours are world-class! The most requested Cancun excursion for good reason as Chichen Itza was one of the most important cities of the Maya era and is now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Cancun visitors will also love the Coba Mayan ruins tours , climbing the Nohoch Mul pyramid for incredible views from the top and the Tulum Mayan ruins tour with their spectacular setting on the Caribbean Sea.

An Ek Balam tour brings you to a lesser known site in the Yucatan where you can climb the impressive acropolis without the crowds. MyCancunTours.com offers Coba, Chichen Itza and Tulum Mayan ruins tours from Cancun and the Riviera Maya in a variety of packages, from basic to deluxe. All our Mayan ruin tours include round trip transportation, entry to the archaeological sites and expert guides, choose a Plus tour package and include light breakfast, lunch, beverages and stops at other points of interest.

The ancient Mayan civilization in the Yucatan Peninsula leave us many ruins site . You can visit most of them in a guided tour, to Cancun ruins for visit chichen itza or another mayan ruins sites . You can arrive from Tulum, Playa del Carmen or Cancun. Ask to our experts wich other mayan ruins cancun or anothe mayan ruins sites yous can visit in your next day trip to mexican caribbean.

The best things to do in Cancun at the best prices, book with us today! 

In the mexican caribbean you have the opportunity to visit a mayan pyramid or a mayan city , there are many considered world heritage sites by the UNESCO . The best way to know the Mayan Civilization or an ancient city is un a private tour with bilingual guides that knows every histories and leyends of this great ancient cultures.

Top up your Tulum Mayan ruins tour with additional Cancun activities!

In addition to the Tulum Mayan ruins tour , Coba is another archaeological site that you can visit with MyCancunTours.com . We can also take you to swim in Aktun Chen cenote, relax at Xel Ha Park, or swim with dolphins in Riviera Maya . Combine a Private Tulum ruins Tour  with another adventure to make the most of your day!

A Mayan Ruins tour from Cancun is a trip back in time.

Any questions?

Ask our Cancun & Riviera Maya Experts!

Some of us were born here, others moved years ago to the beautiful Mexican Caribbean and we all love to explore the natural parks, the ancient Maya cities and the tropical islands in the area. Let us share with you everything we know!

Astrid Anguiano

Josué López

Fernando Santacruz

Receive our promotions

MyCancunTours.com is certified by PCI SSC (Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council), a committee formed by the most important credit and debit card companies in the world responsible for providing the standard of security in the management of sensitive user financial data.

By complying with this standard and making internal verifications permanent to detect and neutralize new threats, MyCancunTours.com guarantees the protection of your data against hacker attacks or possible fraud attempts.

• Authenticity
• Terms & Conditions
• Leave your comments here
• Site Policies
• Privacy Policy
• My Cancun Tours Reviews
• Tours a la Mexicana
• Actions taken by MyCancunTours for COVID-19 pandemic
• Travel Guide
• What to do in Cancun?
• Things to do in Tulum
• Chichen Itza Tours
• Tulum Tours
• Isla Mujeres Tours
• Cozumel Tours
• Cancun Dolphin Swim Tours
• Cancun Eco Tours
• Cancun Adventure Tours
• Cancun Snorkeling Tours
• Xcaret Park
• Cenotes Tours
• Cancun Food Tours
• Cancun Dining & Night Shows
• Weatherproof Tours

Search your tour

Captivating Mayan Ruins

Map & expenses

Similar trips

Embark on a two-week adventure exploring some of Mexico’s most captivating Mayan ruins, going through diverse cultures and contrasting landscapes in a land full of history and beauty. From the beautiful Cancun Caribbean coast to the stunning colonial city of Merida, the fascinating blend of heavenly beaches, impressive ruins of ancient Mayan civilization, the turquoise blue water cenotes, and all the astounding nature surrounding them is overwhelming.

Edzna Ruins

Archaeological site

Calakmul Mayan City

Natural and archaeological reserve

Mayan ruins in the ‘Puuc Route’

Cenotes Cuzuma

Water reservoirs on a remote jungle

Enjoy the well-known friendliness of the Mexican residents who preserve their traditions and culture. Explore dazzling off-the-beaten-path destinations encircled by ancient Mayan temples and sacred cenotes to have a closer glimpse of the Mayan culture and history. From the unique ruins throughout Campeche to the unparalleled views of beautiful Tulum, this trip promises unforgettable experiences throughout the stunning Mayan Riviera and beyond.

To start the travel, there will be someone at the airport waiting to welcome you and drive you to your hotel in Cancun.

One of the most fascinating Mayan ruins in Mexico is without any doubt Chichen Itza. Known worldwide for the play of light and shadow that looks like a descending serpent over the steps of the pyramid known as “The Castle”. Today you will explore this fascinating Mayan city, now UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The sensation you feel when discovering the genius of that prehispanic civilization is certainly indescribable. Another impressive effect in “The Castle” is the sound that is reflected in the upper part when several tourists clap simultaneously at the bottom. Later, we will drive to Merida. 

Enjoy a walking tour to the beautiful old city center surrounded by flower gardens, fountains, palm trees, and of course its impressive architecture. You will also visit the huge Mayan World Museum, one of the most important and ultra-modern in Mexico. Holding more than 1,100 relics, this visit promises an impressive display of the past and present of the Mayan culture.

With a particular style of architecture, the ancient structures, temples, housing, and buildings built on this route are connected by an ancient Mayan pathway. Today we will visit the Mayan ruins of Kabah, Sayil, and Labna, these sites were constructed over a thousand years ago in the hilly area of Yucatan, indeed the word “Puuc” comes from the Mayan for hills and therefore its name.

We will first visit the archaeological site of Xlapak, one of the greatest jewels of the Puuc architectural style. In the Mayan language, its name means Old walls and The Palace. It has a richly decorated main structure.

After the archaeological visit, we will go to the Natural Reserve Anillo de Cenotes (Ring of the Cenotes). This wonder is a semicircle-shaped alignment related to the fall of the meteorite more than 50 million years ago. Here we will visit the Homun and Cuzuma communities, situated in the center of the ring; the communities are dedicated to showing and preserving these natural wonders. The area offers the unparalleled chance of exploring a huge variety of cenotes and caves, each one with a beauty that impacts. 

You can find here a Cenote for every taste, from those with a unique and calm beauty of transparent green waters you will not want to ever leave to those that offer the most thrilling experiences such as pulling a liana or descending more than seven meters for a dive. This natural paradise will surely not leave you indifferent.

We will leave Merida today and head to one of the most beautiful Pre-Columbian sites in Mexico, Uxmal, an astonishing grand finale to the journey down the Puuc Route Ruins. Explore this impressive complex with several religious and political palaces, housing structures, ball courts, and its most outstanding building, 35 meters tall and a notable oval base, is the highest in the complex and is known as: “The Pyramid of the Magician”, local legends say that it bears that name because it was built in a single night.

After this impressive visit, we will reach the walled city of Campeche where we will do a walking tour to enjoy its colorful streets that mix with baroque temples and sober bastions. Its colonial houses, museums, forts, and traditional neighborhoods will certainly rejoice in your sight.

Today you will visit the off-the-beaten-path archaeological site of Edzna, its imposing temple, the Pyramid of the Five Floors is 39 meters high. This ancient Mayan city is fantastically well preserved therefore it is easy to imagine what this city would be like at its peak, full of color, crowds, and movement. More than 200 structures have been located to date, such as building and housing complexes, bases, platforms, ball games, roads, etc. In addition to the monumental constructions, the ancient inhabitants of this city also created an ingenious hydraulic system.

Today we will go south to Xpujil town, located in the middle of the jungle. It is ideal to enjoy the exuberant local flora and fauna. Along the way, we will visit three nearby sites that stand out for their rare Mayan palatial architecture.

The first of them is Becan, in the Mayan language its name means “Cannon formed by water”. It is an ancient city characterized by being surrounded by a moat, unique in the Mayan area. On the other hand, Structure VIII has as a peculiarity its access through a tunnel that connects two of the main squares of this city.

The second site, Chicanna which means “The Mouth of the Serpent” due to the elegance and decorative richness of its buildings, has been considered by some researchers as the elitist center of the region. The third and last that we will visit today is Xpujil, its name means “Cat’s Tail” in allusion to a herbaceous plant that looks like it. It is composed of approximately 17 architectural groups and numerous platforms of a residential nature scattered over an area of approximately 5 square kilometers.

We will visit today one of the most fascinating Mayan ruins in this area, Calakmul, its name means “Between two adjacent stones”. This secret gem of the Mayan archeology remained hidden for more than 1,000 years and is a place where you can feel like a true explorer and be overwhelmed by the power of man and the greatness of nature. 

With structures up to 45 meters high, more than one hundred commemorative stelae and several tombs adorned with numerous vessels and elements such as masks, jadeite necklaces, and marine snails, among others. The extraordinary beauty and complexity of this Mayan city have caused it to be a Mixed World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Due to its great natural and wild wealth is also a Biosphere Reserve that is home to about 100 mammals including the puna or the iconic jaguar.

Today you will be transferred to the magical town of Tulum, with beautiful white sand beaches, lagoons, cenotes, and caverns that impress with their beauty and natural splendor. Upon arrival you could visit Paradise Beach to enjoy a breathtaking sunset, its calm and beautiful waters are perfect for enjoying a drink on the beach while admiring the ruins above.

After breakfast you will start visiting the amazing walled city of Tulum, located on a cliff overlooking the clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, the spectacular location of this site is worth a visit. Later, we will visit the Cenotes in Dos Ojos.

From the top of the tallest ancient pyramid of Coba, the jungle canopy looks like a living green colossal carpet. Archaeologists consider the Mayan ruins of Coba to be an unbelievably decisive city for the Maya civilization. Nonetheless, due to its faraway position, this gigantic site is not as trendy with travelers as other ruins. But there are abounding reasons to explore the city of white roads.

Coba does not have as many visitors as other destinations, so you can climb some of the temples for a contrasting and uncommon viewpoint. The lifted stone roadways connect clusters of residential sections to the main plaza and small lakes used as an adjacent water supply. There are three very cool ways to explore the site forward on these roads. You will be able to hike, hire a bici taxi, or the most favorite, rent a bicycle!

One of the most beloved reasons to see Coba is that it is not as uncovered as other sites in the Mayan world, so you will feel like you are hiking through a jungle, with many great structures still covered by the jungle canopy. Here is the tallest pyramid in the north of the peninsula at 42 meters high, some interesting stelae where important events of the upper class of society were sculpted are preserved on the esplanade in front of it. 

Our last visit of the day will be to the Mayan underworld, with a refreshing stop at the Cenote Choo-Ha, a water-filled natural sinkhole whose name means Dripping Water. A spacious cavern where the shallow and crystalline jade-colored waters surround an earthy island, the whole cavern is filled by stalactites and stalagmites that are constantly leaking, hence its name. After this adequate stop where you can enjoy a refreshing swim, you will be taken back to your hotel. 

You will have a free day to enjoy the Mexican Caribbean, beautiful white sand beaches and palm trees, turquoise blue sea, spectacular lagoons, and underwater caverns. This unique region, rich in Mayan culture and history, is also rich in diversity, gastronomy, and natural resources.

This journey through some of the most fascinating Mayan ruins in Mexico has come to an end and today a private transfer will take you to the Cancun International Airport for your flight back home. But if you are craving for adventure has not stopped yet, you can contact us and we will help you extend the trip.

map, expenses & price

Expenses included: -All private transportation. -Thirteen nights of hotel accommodations. -Professional certified guides. -All park entrance fees. -Tours and excursions as listed. -Daily breakfast.

8 days & 7 nights

17 days & 16 nights

12 days & 11 nights

Travel Advisory

El Salvador

© MAYAN GATEWAY | TERMS OF SERVICE | PRIVACY

Speed optimized by Speedable

Mayan Route Tour: Impressive Riviera Maya, Ruins and Canyon

• Fully Guided
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Playa del Carmen
• Day 2 Playa del Carmen
• Day 3 Playa del Carmen - Tulum - Valladolid
• Day 4 Valladolid - Cenote Ik Kil - Chichen Itza - Celestun
• Day 5 Celestun - Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve - Campeche
• Day 6 Campeche - Miguel Colorado Cenotes - Palenque
• Day 7 Palenque - Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls - San Juan de Chamula - San Cristobal de las Casas
• Day 8 San Cristobal de las Casas - Canyon Sumidero - Chiapa de Corzo
• Day 9 Chiapa de Corzo

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services
• Optional Extras

Where You'll Stay

Operated by vibe adventures.

Vibe Adventures is a small-group adventure tour operator with a goal to help young (by both age & spirit) & active people discover our beautiful world in the most interactive, authentic & fun way!

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 5.0
• Itinerary Excellent 5.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 5.0
• Accommodation Good 4.0
• Food Good 4.0
• Tour Operator Vibe Adventures 4.7

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• Saturday 8 Jun, 2024 Sunday 16 Jun, 2024 English, Spanish Multiple Room Types €1,281 Confirm Dates
• Saturday 13 Jul, 2024 Sunday 21 Jul, 2024 English, Spanish Multiple Room Types €1,281 Confirm Dates
• Saturday 17 Aug, 2024 Sunday 25 Aug, 2024 English, Spanish Multiple Room Types €1,281 Confirm Dates
• Saturday 21 Sep, 2024 Sunday 29 Sep, 2024 English, Spanish Multiple Room Types €1,281 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Saturday 26 Oct, 2024 Sunday 3 Nov, 2024 English, Spanish Multiple Room Types €1,281 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Saturday 30 Nov, 2024 Sunday 8 Dec, 2024 English, Spanish Multiple Room Types €1,281 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Saturday 4 Jan, 2025 Sunday 12 Jan, 2025 English, Spanish Multiple Room Types €1,281 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Saturday 8 Feb, 2025 Sunday 16 Feb, 2025 English, Spanish Multiple Room Types €1,281 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Saturday 15 Mar, 2025 Sunday 23 Mar, 2025 English, Spanish Multiple Room Types €1,281 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

• Currency $ Mexican Peso Mexico

As a traveller from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Mexico. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Mexico. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Mexico. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 2nd August 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 2nd August 2024, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with Vibe Adventures. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Vibe Adventures will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Vibe Adventures" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Vibe Adventures. Please familiarise yourself with the Vibe Adventures payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
• South Korea Tours
• Golden Triangle 3 day tours
• Southern France y tours
• Desert tours
• Germany Frankfurt-am-Main tours
• Group size is between 1 and 15 Bulgaria and R…
• Kruger National Park Guide: 6 Things to Know

Similar Tours

Keep Exploring Mexico

• Mexico Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Mexico Vacation Packages 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• 10 Best Adventure Tour and Travel Companies
• 10 Best Budget Adventure Tours 2024/2025
• Mexico from Playa del Carmen
• Mexico Active
• Small group tour
• 9 days Mexico
• Operators in Latin America
• Mayan Route Tour: Impressive Riviera Maya, Ruins and Canyon Tours in Mexico
• Active Tours
• Mexico Tours
• Latin America Tours
• Group Tours
• Fully Guided Tours
• Christmas & New Year Tours
• Mexico tours

TOUR THE RUINS OF THE MAYAN RIVIERA

The single biggest attraction in the Riviera Maya is the once-mighty Mayan empire, for which the area got it's name.  It has been hundreds of years since these great cities were occupied, but their prowess and intrigue lives on today with day trips and tours to these Mayan ruins sites.  We offer the largest selection and best prices on Mayan Ruins tours in the Riviera Maya.

A Quick Guide to the Mayan Ruins of the Yucatan

Chichen Itza is the most famous of the ruins sites of the Mayan Riviera, and for good reason.  It is so well-preserved and so much of it has been uncovered and restored, that it is truly a sight to behold.  The best part of the Chichen Itza tours, besides their incredible prices, is the guided tour inside the ruins site.  The stories, legends and history behind the temples of Chichen Itza will fascinate you.  It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was recently voted as one of the new 7 Wonders of the World.  A must-see.  The downside?  The trip to Chichen Itza is about 2.5 to 3 hours each way.

Tulum is the second-biggest Mayan Ruins attraction in the Riviera Maya behind Chichen Itza.  It is much smaller and less impressive than Chichen Itza, but it's glorious setting atop a sea cliff, overlooking the Caribbean Sea is breathtaking and makes for some great vacation photos.  It is also super convenient for people staying south of Playa del Carmen - only a few minutes from the towns of Tulum and Akumal, so for folks staying in these towns, it's a no-brainer.  It also only takes about 2 hours to explore, so you'll have plenty of time left for other activities in your day.  This is why most tours to Tulum are combo tours.

Coba is a huge site, the biggest in the area.  However, much of it has not been uncovered and restored.  It is the only Mayan ruins site to be set in the jungle, which gives it a real "Indiana Jones" feel, especially as you look out over the jungle from the top of the 136-foot Nohoch Mul pyramid, which you can still climb.  It is about 45 minutes from most towns in the Riviera Maya, and is the best site for people with limited mobility.  The reason is because you can rent a pedicab (rickshaw) at the gate, and get escorted around the site to the different temples.  You can also pedal yourself on a bicycle.

Ek Balam is situated not too far from Chichen Itza, near the north end of the Yucatan Peninsula.  It is always combined with another attraction such as the Rio Lagartos Flamingo Preserve, or Chichen Itza, as it only takes a couple hours to explore and is about 2.5 hours from the Riviera Maya.  Like Coba, you can still climb the pyramid here, and it is the least crowded of the four, and perhaps the best preserved as well.

Use the navigation bar at left to browse our massive selection of other Riviera Maya Tours and Activities .

Can't Find What You're Looking For?

• [ May 7, 2024 ] Get a Local Taste With These Great Food Tours! Tours, Activities and Excursions
• [ May 4, 2024 ] Hidden Yal Ku, beautiful snorkeling in Akumal Daytrips, tours, activities and excursions
• [ May 2, 2024 ] Take a Custom Tour in the Riviera Maya to See More Everything Playa
• [ April 16, 2024 ] Why the Riviera Maya is the Ultimate Destination for Corporate Events Everything Playa
• [ April 14, 2024 ] What is Xenses park like to visit for the day and what can you do there Daytrips, tours, activities and excursions

The guide to Mayan Ruins in the Riviera Maya and beyond

Which Mexican Mayan ruins are best for you to visit?

Are you coming on vacation to want to see a Mexican Mayan ruin? But not sure what are the best ones to visit? We compare everything about them and are giving you a guide so you can choose what is best for you. We will talk about prices, distance, accessibility, and what makes each one unique.

There are four main Mexican Mayan ruins that people go to and three are other ones that are an alternative place to visit. Remember if you are a resident of Mexico, bring your id for a discount.

Should I go to Tulum ruins, Ek Balam, Coba or Chichen Itza?

Chichen itza.

This is by far the most popular Mexican Mayan ruin in the Yucatan Peninsula and is known around the world. It is so popular because the main pyramid is so well preserved, and the site is so large. The price of entry is also the highest at 243 pesos for foreign visitors. Parking is 22 pesos and if you want to go to the light show at night it is another 72 pesos.

This is the only Mayan ruin site on this half of the Yucatan that does a light show at night. Most people arrive by tours so driving and parking are not to be considered. When pricing tours make sure to ask if the entrance fee is included. Some tours can seem cheap but then you have to pay for more.

Coba Mayan Ruins 

Lesser-known Mexican Mayan ruins in the area

Muyil mayan ruins.

• Muyil ruins is a small site just south of Tulum. Very few tourists come here because Tulum ruins suck in most tourist because the amazing views off the cliffs and the name it has for itself. What this site is good for is a quiet walk among a semi shaded area and a nice trail out to the lagoon in the back. Entrance to the trail is 50 pesos extra. Make sure you climb the lookout tower and make it all the way out to the lagoon. Entrance is about 54 pesos now and parking is free. If you have been to Tulum and Coba and have a car this makes for a nice half day trip with a stop in Tulum for something to eat.

Xelha Mayan Ruins

Chacchoben Mayan ruins

• Chacchoben  ruins are in the far south of the state of Quintana Roo. These ruins make for a long day trip or an overnight trip with a side trip to Bacalar or other destination in the area. The ruins here were officially open to the public in 2002, so they are lesser known and the distance from most tourist destinations keeps them from being crowded. You really start to see the vegetation change as you go further south in the state, and you have a chance to see monkeys in the trees here. You can find yourself here alone as long as there are no cruise ships in Mahahual. Chacchoben ruins is semi shaded and with some slight hills. Entrance is 48 pesos and parking is free. Most people only come here with a tour from a cruise ship so if you want to visit these by yourself you should have your own car.

El Naranjal Mayan ruins

• El Naranjal ruins are so unknown you can barely find pictures of them online. These ruins are just over one hour from Playa Del Carmen and good to explore with your own car. The ruins are semi restored. You can see about four pyramids here. The small community around the ruins has some eco-tourism activities and things for you to see as well. See our article and video in the link for more information.

Yaxunah Mayan ruins

• Yaxunah is a site that is only 13 miles from Chichen Itza, but no one has heard of it. It has over 650 structures that have been identified. It also has the longest road (sac-be) found to be built by the Maya. Yaxunah Mayan ruins are near a small town where you can find a guide to take you around. There is not official entrance or even information on them. These ruins are not restored, and some parts are hard to see amid growth.

El Meco Mayan ruins

• El Meco is the ruins you have never heard of but are actually in Cancun! Most tourist don’t go here because no one offers tours here because it is so close, and it is a smaller site. It can be a nice hour or two of your day visiting here if you are staying in Cancun. If you are staying in Playa, it is not really worth coming to because Tulum is a better option. There is no vista here but rather nice grassy area with some trees. No climbing is allowed here. If you are not with a car you will need to take a taxi from the center of Cancun to these ruins. Entrance is about 45 pesos and parking is free.

Calakmul Mayan ruins

• Calakmul ruins are deep in the jungle. These Mayan ruins take some planning to go see but can be rewarding. Not only is the tallest pyramid here accessible to climb, but it is also 50 feet taller than Chichen Itza’s famous pyramid! These Mayan ruins site is large, and you can see many pyramids peaking up from the jungle when you climb to the top. Noteworthy as well are the animals you can see here and very few other tourists. For more about visiting these Mayan ruins, see our link including a video.

Ake Mayan ruins

• These ruins are between Izamal and Merida. They are seldom visited but is well worth the visit. Here you will see several pyramids. Many are made with the biggest stones we have seen at any Mayan ruin site. See more in our guide here to Ake ruins . 

Dzibilchaltun Mayan ruins

• These ruins are about 10 miles outside the city of Merida . The ruins themselves are smaller in size but what makes it interesting is the museum which is onsite. There is a good sampling of Mayan artifacts, and the history continues up to the time of the Spanish arrival on the peninsula. To read more about visiting Dzibilchaltun Mayan ruins, see our article here .

Going around the Riviera Maya

If you don’t go on a tour or independent trip to the above ruins you still might just see some while driving or walking around because there are many small reminders of the Mayan civilization around the Riviera Maya.

For example, if you go to Isla Mujeres, you can see some at the south end of the island. They have been damaged over time by hurricanes so there is not much left to see.

If you are in Playa Del Carmen, there are small ruins around town even. You can see where some of them are in the article “ Hidden things in Playa you never knew were here.”

We hope you get to experience some of these ruins because they really are some of the things that make visiting this part of Mexico interesting.

What are your favorite Mexican Mayan ruins to visit and why? Let us know in the comment section below. We would love to hear from you!

About The Author

See author's posts

26 Comments

Do you have any recommended Tourist agency

Hello Gary. There is not one tour agency that we recommend to cover all the ruins. General tour agencies only sell tours based on what commissions they make and many of the people that sell have not been on each of the tours to really know if it is good. If you let us know what Mayan ruins you want to go to we can recommend different companies for different sites. Are you looking to do the Mayan ruin and some other activity? Are you looking for a private tour to avoid the crowds? Are you looking for a bus tour? So you mind if it is a group of 45 people? If you let us know where and what you are looking for we can point you in some directions. On the individual articles we do have links to some tours we have been on and they are good options to those ruins.

We have been to three of the Mayan ruins on this guide. Our favorite has been Coba Mayan Ruins. We like the view from the top and climbing the pyramid. The bikes that you use to get around are a nice activity and cheap to do.

Can you recommend a guide for the Coba ruins? We will be staying near Akumal and would like a private guide for a trip to Coba. It is for a family of 4.

Hello Miriam. We know there are a lot of small private guides but we don’t write about many because some are just people that give tours and are not legal companies. We only want to refer people to quality tours and tours that have a somewhat standard quality. Many private tours will be in the range of 110-150 per person. For many families this can be expensive. Some options you have are renting a car, doing it by bus or going with a group tour. One good tour that can set up Coba and really nice cultural activities is Mystical Wanders. https://everythingplayadelcarmen.com/mystikal-wanders/ They usually take a couple or two couples on tour for a private tour. If you are interested we can talk to them and set that up for you. You can send us a note here or email.

Can you recommend a tour company here in playa del Carmen ? We would like to go to chicken Itza in a couple of weeks Thank you

We have been on allTOURnatives tour which is a small van tour and you go to Cenote Maya and we have been with Xichen tours which is a large bus that stops in Valladolid. We will be posting videos and articles this week on these two tours so you can get a feel for what they are like. There are also private tours to. One company is Absolute Adventures. https://everythingplayadelcarmen.com/absolute-adventure-mexico/ You can contact them to see what they can offer you. These are three options. It will vary in price. There are some tours offered on 5th Avenue that are 40-60 USD a person. We don’t recommend these because they are so cheap both in price and quality. Just note that a trip to Chichén Itza is a long day. It is about 3 hours each way and tours try to break up this trip.

We’ve been coming to Playa for about 5 years now. We’ve done Coba, Ek’Balam, Chichen Itza and Tulum, and all are worth seeing. IMO if you only have 1 day to tour, I would do Chichen Itza and Ek’Balam. The pyramid and ball court at Chichen Itza are just breathtaking. The sheer size of the ball court is just astounding, as big as a modern football stadium. Ek’Balam of course has the palace you can climb, right up to the Shaman’s terrace, which was mind blowing

Again thanks for these informative article! What are some of the driving times from Playa to these Mayan ruins? Of special interest would be how long a drive to Chichén Itzá, Muyil, Coba, me Calakmul. Thanks!

Some of the drive times are 1.5 hours to Coba, Muyil 1 hour 5 minutes, Chichen Itza 2.5 hours, Calakmul 4 hours. All of the aforementioned ruin sites can be doable in a day trip except Calakmul. That should be done in conjunction with a night in Bacalar.

Uxmal + Puuc Route ruins really should be mentioned here. Uxmal is so much better than Chichen and far fewer visitors and vendors. Stay at the hotel adjacent to Uxmal and do the Puuc Route sites on the way back the next day. Chichen is packed with vendors, avoid.

Yes we agree with you. We have that in another article but will have to add Uxmal to this article https://everythingplayadelcarmen.com/uxmal-mayan-ruins/

I have been a lot of places round the world and the Mayan ruins just blue me away.

Which ones did you visit? What was your favorite so far?

A group of my girlfriends and me are planning a trip to either Playa del Carmen or Quintana Roo in March what do you recommend it will be our first time trying a tour and my first time going to Cancun. What do you recommend

So are you staying in Playa Del Carmen, Cancun, or the Riviera Maya at a resort? How many people are you that want to go on a tour? If you let us know some more details we can give you some direction on what to do.

We have visited Tulum, Ek Balam, and Muyil. Each has its own specialities. Tulum is interesting because it is near the sea, but does not have large structures. However, you get a better sense of how Mayan life might have been. We stayed close to Playa del Carmen, so it was easy to get to. Ek Balam is a farther drive but is a fascinating experience. Since it is recently opened, it is interesting to see it in progress. Being able to climb the temple steps and see the panorama for miles and miles was great. We had the tremendous privilege of having one of the archeologists as our guide through the site, so learned a lot about the process of restoring the structures. I think I enjoyed Muyil the most. We were the only visitors there at the time. Very picturesque setting. It is less commercialized and therefore feels more genuine. All were great experiences.

That sounds like a good adventure Gary. Have you been to Calakmul and Uxmal? If not, maybe next time you can go there. They are more of an adventure but well worth it!

Any tour companies that specialize in taking babies (in particular we need two car seats for 2-year-olds and also space for 4 more adults)

The larger companies will be better to take young children on. Some of the smaller ones actually limit the ages because they don’t want a small van to be stuck with screaming kids. Here is one tour to Chichen you can check out. https://everythingplayadelcarmen.com/xichen-deluxe-chichen-itza-tour/

Hello, we are looking to travel to mexico for a vacation in April and I really want to see some of the ruins and do excursions. I am wondering where the best area to stay in would be to be the most central to the ruins etc so we can get a lot of different stuff done. After we find which area we will then look for a beach front resort.

It will depend on what ruins you want to see. Tulum is close to Tulum ruins and Coba ruins. Playa Del Carmen is central to go to Tulum, Ek Balam, and Chichen Itza.

Hello, So im planning a trip to chetumal later this year and was wondering if a day trip to calakmul was enough time to explore the ruins? Or do u think it would need to be 2 days?

A day trip should be enough time. The drive is part of the adventure but is long down the 60km road to the ruins. The ruins themselves are impressive and unique. The only other option would be staying at a hotel in the area, but you might find that boring. There are some other ruin in the area to see that are good to visit and offer different things to see. You can make a full day of exploring.

which mayan ruin can you enter . im coming from the cancun area

Do you mean visit or walk inside of some of the temples? If you mean climb, Ek Balam is available for climbing to the top. Coba is temporarily closed for climbing but is open. Chichen Itza is open and normally functioning but guests have not been able to climb there for some time.

3 Trackbacks / Pingbacks

• Some of the Mayan ruins could be opening soon!
• What beaches in Playa Del Carmen have less seaweed?
• See why Uxmal Mayan ruins is on our top 3 list to visit in the Yucatan

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Copyright © 2024 | MH Magazine WordPress Theme by MH Themes

EXPLORE OUR TOURS IN THE RIVIERA MAYA  TULUM PLAYA DEL CARMEN CANCÚN CHICHENITZA

Welcome, fearless travelers, to a unique ecotourism experience in Tulum and all the beautiful places that belong to the Riviera Maya! Get ready for this complete immersion in the natural treasures of the region.

Yucatán and Quintana Roo, states in Mexico, will welcome you with waters that dazzle in greenish-blue tones resembling emeralds, and beaches with oatmeal-colored sand. Beyond the boundaries of Tulum, your adventure extends to exceptional places in the Riviera Maya, where pristine nature invites you to engage in responsible activities.

Destinations You Must Discover:

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of this ecological paradise, home to an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna.

Tulum National Park: Discover the historical and natural richness of Tulum, where ancient Mayan ruins meet the Caribbean Sea.

Cenotes of the Riviera Maya: Explore the mysterious and refreshing waters of the cenotes, natural caves that will captivate you with their unique beauty.

Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve: Observe wildlife in its natural habitat, with stunning landscapes of mangroves and an abundance of birds.

TOURS FOR NATURE CONSERVATION & CULTURAL PRESERVATION​

By incorporating these destinations into our group and private tours, we aim to provide authentic ecotourism experiences, fostering a connection with nature and promoting responsible practices to preserve these natural treasures for future generations.

Our tours are designed for groups of at least 4 people and up to a maximum of 10; they are carefully crafted to provide a fully immersive experience in close contact with nature. Packed with exciting adventures and discoveries, our main goal is for you to enjoy ecotourism to the fullest while contributing to the preservation and support of our valuable ecosystem

– Journey through the stunning Caribbean waters – Dive into crystal-clear waters for snorkeling – Savor delicious tikinxic-style fish – Relax on the island’s stunning beaches – Soak up the sun and take a dip in the warm sea – Create lasting memories in a tropical paradise

– Explore the Mayan ruins of Tulum with expert guides – Swimming with sea turtles in their natural habitat – Indulging in authentic local cuisine at a handpicked restaurant

– 2.5-hour boat ride through Bacalar Lagoon – Discovering the Pirate’s Canal – Visiting the tranquil Cocalitos natural pools – Immersing in the crystal-clear waters – Enjoying a delicious meal at a restaurant by the lagoon – Exploring the impressive Cenote Azul – Swimming and relaxing in the natural wonders of Cenote Azul

– Exploring different types of cenotes surrounded by lush vegetation – Entering a cave cenote with shimmering turquoise waters – Learning about the local ecosystem and nature insights from experienced guides

Sustainable Adventures and Local Empowerment

Sustainable Tourism

Support for Regional Economy

Small Groups, Minimal Impact

Zero Waste Recycling Program

Comprehensive Coverage

Secured Experiences

3 responses.

Thank you to Felipe for the amazing tours. He is so so understanding, nice and funny! I learned and discovered some beautiful places and felt really at ease with his guiding. He speaks spanish, english and french so we could exchange and understand each other perfectly. I truly recommend if you want to discover el Yucatán! ✨ Nilla

Hi, I’m interested in a group tour for 10/14 days in the Yucatan/Mayan Riviera peninsula, this November. Can you offer this with hotel options too please ? Thanks so much.

I absolutely loved Felipe’s tour. It was worth my trip, even if I did nothing else. He is so warm and friendly, and you feel at ease immediately. I know he loves the heritage of the area, and he easily shares his extensive wealth of knowledge. He knows the best times to go so you miss the crowds. He makes each site visited so special, you feel like it’s your very own tour. I highly recommend him!!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Best service guarantee

Book transfer online

Mayan Ruins

Tulum Cenotes and Tacos private tour

Tulum Turtles and Tacos Private Tour

Tulum Turtles and beach club

Ek Balam Express

Tulum & Luxury Catamaran

Coba and Turtle Adventure

Tulum, Aktun Chen and Akumal Turtles – VIP

Ek Balam & Cenote – Private Tour

Chichen Itza +2 cenotes

Tulum Xtreme

Chichen Itza Day or Night Tour

Tulum Xel-Ha Private High Season Tour

Tulum Xel-Ha Low Season Private Tour

Tulum Xcaret Plus Private Tour

Tulum Xcaret Basic Private Tour

Tulum Rio Secreto Private Tour

Tulum Private Tour

Tulum Half Day Tour

Tulum Yalku Plus

Ek Balam Private Tour

Coba Tulum Private Tour

Coba Small Group Tour

Coba Private Tour

Chichen Itza Private Tour

Chichen Itza Express Tour

Chichen Itza and Ek Balam Private Tour

Chichen Itza and Cenote Private Tour

Transfer booking, arrival / departure / hotels, dear vip traveler.

VIP Riviera Maya is a high-end tour and travel company that takes vacation tours and excursions to an entirely new level. VIP Riviera Maya is safe and reliable, but what we do best is we customize your tour to match what your group wants. You’re never stuck in a one-tour-fits-all scenario where you have to do a part of a tour that you’re really not interested in doing. Our team at VIP Riviera Maya knows that vacation time is valuable and there’s no time to waste.

VIP Riviera Maya is your personal concierge in paradise, offering everything the tour companies on the street offer, but in our case, our tours are completely designed by you. There are some VIP-organized day trips and tours in the event you want to make it easy and just pick one and follow my recommendation, or you can completely customize your own. One thing you’ll never have to do is tour with other groups of people that you don’t know, unless of course you want to. The best part of VIP Riviera Maya is you get what you want, on your time, on your precious, exotic vacation.

We only partner with high-end hotels, exclusive resorts, venues and transportation that offer the best in customer service. VIP Riviera Maya will always provide you with a number of options and ideas to help you curate the best trip ever for you and your crew. This area is lucky to be home of a number of unique and impressive eco-water parks and we have special tours to take you there! You can choose from many options like swimming with dolphins, boat trips, fishing, scuba and snorkel tours, nightclubs, restaurants, transportation options and more. Please contact me directly for any questions regarding these tours including pricing information.

We hope you’ll take advantage of some of the most unique tours you can find in the world. This is your time, so make the most of it and add an amazing VIP experience to your vacation in paradise.

With Warmest Regards,

Dan Palka Owner/Operator, VIP Riviera Maya Email: [email protected] U.S. +1 (858) 333 8545 Playa del Carmen, Q. Roo, Mexico

Reserve this tour online

Our operators will reach you in a minute.

Top Tours in Riviera Maya, Mexico

Riviera maya tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full Day Tulum Ruins Tour Cenote and Swimming with Turtles

2. Cancun ATV Jungle Adventure, Ziplines, Cenote and Tequila Tasting

3. Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves

4. VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour

5. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Small Group Day Trip

6. Xplor Park All-Inclusive Admission - With Lunch and Drinks

7. Half-Day Sea Turtle and Cenote Snorkeling Tour from Cancun & Riviera Maya

8. ATV, Zipline and Cenote at Extreme Adventure with Tulum Pickup

9. Tulum Day Trip Mayan Ruins With Cenote Swim

10. Half-day Cenote Adventure with Ziplining, ATV & lunch

11. Half Day Luxury Sailing Experience in Riviera Maya with Open Bar

12. Playa del Carmen Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim and Mayan Village Visit

13. Chichén Itzá, Cenote and Valladolid with Lunch and transportation.

14. Full Experience Isla Mujeres: Food aboard + Premium drinks + Snorkel + Free time

15. Xcaret Park Day Trip with Priority Access and Cultural Night Show

16. ATV, Ziplines & Cenote. Lunch & Transportation included

17. Chichen Private Experience

18. Reef Snorkeling in National Park from Cancun with Beachside Lunch

19. Horseback Riding Tour with ATV, Ziplines Cenote and Lunch

20. Rio Secreto Underground River Tour with Crystal Caves

21. Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins Reduced Group

22. Isla Mujeres Cruise with Beach Club, Snorkel, Lunch and Open Bar

23. Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with freshly grilled lunch

24. ATV Zipline Cenote Adventure from Playa del Carmen

25. Private Transfer to/from Cancun airport

26. Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen Including Cenote Swim

27. Cirque du Soleil JOYA Admission Tickets

28. Adventure in the Mayan Jungle with ATV and Zip Line in Tulum

29. 2-Hour Snorkeling in Two Spots of Tulum's Reef

30. Floating breakfast in The Yellow Nest (near Dos Ojos cenote)

What travellers are saying.

Explore The Natural Magic of the Riviera Maya Landscape

Welcome to NS Tours Riviera Maya, we are excited to bring you our unique adventures in the heart of the Mexican Caribbean.

Beaches, Reefs, Jungles, Cenotes, Islands and Mayan ruins: We’ve got it all

The Mexican Caribbean is a destination known for its natural beauty and the excursions at NS Tours Riviera Maya are the key to unlocking these wonders. Imagine yourself on a Holbox Island tour, basking in the serenity of its white sand beaches and gentle waves and observing tropical wildlife. Feel the refreshing ocean breeze and soak up the laid-back atmosphere that defines this tranquil island. Our selection of Riviera Maya tours is all about immersing you in the vibrant tapestry of nature, culture, and history that thrives in the lush jungles and the crystal-clear waters of the Yucatan Peninsula. With our expert guides, you'll embark on extraordinary journeys of discovery.

Visit the enigmatic Mayan ruins of Tulum, where our guides will unravel the mysteries of this ancient civilization. This is the only Mayan ruins site set on a cliff overlooking the turquoise sea, incredible views! After your taste of history, refresh while snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal, an out of this world encounter with nature that will take your breath away. Book with NS Tours Riviera Maya for a unique look at Tulum with our certified guides.

Off the Beaten Path Natural Adventures with NS Tours Riviera Maya

A Bacalar tour from the Riviera Maya is a delight in nature and history, a journey to a "Magic Town of Mexico" that once served as a refuge for pirates centuries ago. The "Lagoon of Seven Colors" boat tour in Bacalar will leave you breathless as you traverse routes once navigated by these legendary buccaneers. Learn more about the rare ancient fossils called “stromatolites”, Bacalar is one of the few places in the world to experience the oldest living life forms on the planet. Contact us today to learn more.

Discover untouched beauty and the pristine landscapes of the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This protected area is a sanctuary for thousands of species of wildlife. Explore the Muyil Mayan ruins with our knowledgeable guides, take a boat tour on the Muyil lagoon, and gently float down the Sian Kaan canals. Reserve your place today to absorb the serenity and positive vibes of this natural biosphere reserve, which spans over 1 million acres just south of Tulum!

Sensational Experiences for Body, Mind and Soul: Join us at NS Tours Riviera Maya

At NS Tours Riviera Maya, we invite you to embrace the natural side of the Mexican Caribbean. Let us be your guides on this journey as you discover why our home is one of the favorite vacation destinations for world travelers. Unique Riviera Maya tours and cultural experiences, reserve your adventures in nature today. Your incredible vacation adventures in the Mexican Caribbean await! Book the best nature tours in the Riviera Maya with our passionate guides, we can’t wait to meet you in paradise.

The best things to do in Riviera Maya: ancient ruins, magical caverns and tree-top adventures

Feb 24, 2022 • 10 min read

The beautiful coast of the Riviera Maya makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico © CampPhoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Extending across the northernmost tip of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, the Riviera Maya is an 83-mile sweep of coastline running from the south of Cancún all the way to the Belize border.

The tourist corridor is a magnet for sun-seeking travelers with its powder-puff white sand beaches, legendary ruins, and the world’s second-largest coral reef. What makes the Riviera Maya all the more appealing is that it’s a year-round destination – although the best time to visit is between February and June when temperatures are mild and crowds thin out.

Beyond the sparkling strands, the Riviera Maya entices with an impressive lineup of well-preserved Maya ruins, world-class dive sites, and fun-filled cenotes (natural swimming holes) . Let’s just say you won’t ever run out of things to do. But if you don’t know where to start, we’ve handpicked the best things to do in Riviera Maya – including both quintessential must-dos and unusual experiences for those who like to stray off the well-trodden trail.

Time travel at the Tulum ruins

Ranked high as one of the most prominent ruins in Mexico , Tulum is a great place to start your Riviera Maya journey. The Tulum ruins are perched on the top of rocky cliffs, high above the azure waters of the Caribbean – an uncommon location for an ancient Maya city. With evidence of habitation dating back as far as 564 CE, Tulum's heyday as a Maya city was in the 1200s and it has withstood the ravages of time and retained its grid-like layout, main structures, and a strong sense of history in every corner.

The compact archaeological site can be seen in a couple of hours; aim to get here before the tour groups arrive at 11 am and bring a swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the inviting water beneath the ruins. There is very little shade at the ruins and the opportunity to cool off in the sea is most welcome. Start with the waterfront temples and meander clockwise through the site – the real prize is the view that awaits along the cliff-edge trail of the Castillo, the tallest structure in Tulum, backed by cobalt waters and a spiny-tailed iguana or two.

Get a digital experience at Mystika Tulum

After exploring the Tulum ruins, make a stop at the new-age interactive digital museum, Mystika Tulum . It delivers a one-of-a-kind sensory experience designed to take you on a journey through the Maya cosmology through multi-sensorial rooms and installations. The venue is modest, and the entrance fee is higher than local museums, but it captures your imagination like no other, with outstanding visuals that both adults and kids will appreciate. This gallery is the brainchild of Pepe Soho, one of the most celebrated photographers in Mexico.

Float in the ancient Maya canals at Sian Ka’an

One of the most biodiverse places in the world, Reserva de la Biosfera de Sian Ka’an is a 1.3 million-acre reserve of mangroves, savannahs, spearmint lagoons, and virgin beaches. Just south of Tulum, this patch of wilderness is the largest protected area on Mexico’s Caribbean coast and an eco traveler’s dream come true. The majority of the Sian Ka’an is out-of-bounds, and only a fraction is designated for sustainable eco-tourism.

Sian Ka’an is best explored on a guided tour, as the rugged trails and waterways are challenging to traverse on your own. Maya-run Community Tours Sian Ka'an runs kayak tours through the lagoons and birdwatching tours that directly benefit the local community. While drifting down canals dug by the Mayas centuries earlier, try to spot giant land crabs and manatees, and listen out for howler monkeys.

Swim in a cavern

Underneath the lush jungles of the Yucatán Peninsula lies a secret underworld of turquoise pools and mystical caves. Cenotes were revered by the Mayan civilization and used as a portal to communicate with the gods. Today, you can see why these underground caverns played a pivotal role in the Maya world.

In the crisp mineral-rich water of Cenote Dos Ojos , you’ll get the chance to weave through narrow passages and swim between illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. What you’re seeing is just a fragment of the world's largest underwater cave systems – book a guided snorkeling tour run by the local Maya community or a scuba dive session if you’d like to venture deeper into the cave system.

The trio of cenotes near Playa del Carmen tends to receive fewer visitors: Azul, Cristalino, and Eden are all open-air cenotes with clear-as-glass water and skin-nibbling tropical fish darting around. They’re great for people of all ages – adventurous adults can dive off mini cliffs into the water, kids can wade in the shallow pools or meander along the jungle paths, and seniors have plenty of space for a picnic.

Step back in time at Punta Allen

Located at the end of the Boca Paila Peninsula, the remote fishing village of Punta Allen gives a glimpse of how the Riviera Maya used to be. The picture-perfect beaches are empty except for a few stray dogs and a fisherman or two. A sandy main drag cuts through the sleepy pueblo , lined by crumbling wooden houses, simple loncherias (eateries), and grocery stores.

Getting here is not easy: even though it’s just 25 miles (40km) from the Sian Ka'an entrance, most people take at least two hours to traverse the bumpy dirt track to Punta Allen. But the village is well worth the arduous journey for its low-key atmosphere, traffic-free tranquility, and absence of mass tourism.

Rise early for a dolphin-watching trip or go snorkeling over the technicolored reef. After that, join the village's seniors on a fishing trip, and end the night under the starry skies in a bell tent at Hotel Cielo y Selva .

Swim in the magic waters of Laguna Bacalar

For those keen on veering off the beaten path, we’ll let you in on a secret: Laguna Bacalar is a quiet, little-known lake close to the border of Belize, with inviting spearmint water, stromatolite-rimmed shores, and overwater hammocks. Nicknamed Laguna de Siete Colores (lagoon of seven colors), the water alternates between light turquoise and dark indigo.

To explore the lagoon, base yourself in Bacalar town, just two hours from Tulum by car. The village appeals more to indie travelers than the average package tourist, with a surprisingly good selection of contemporary cafes and food trucks. Rent a kayak or join a boat tour to see the 38-mile-long (60km) stretch of water, making stops at the Canal de los Piratas , a channel that used to be plundered by pirates, and Cenote Cristalino , fringed by ancient pancake-like rocks known as stromatolites.

Watch the sunrise on a SUP

There’s no better time to take to the waters of the Riviera Maya than at sunrise. At this golden hour, the water is as smooth as glass, and the beach is empty save for a few other early birds. The usual raucous atmosphere of Playa del Carmen is gone, and in its place is a soothing silence punctuated by the sound of lapping waves and the squawks of seagulls overhead.

Paddleboarding at sunrise is an extraordinary experience, even for SUP (stand-up paddleboard) enthusiasts. Aloha Paddle Club organizes guided sunrise SUP sessions daily at Inti Beach, in the center of Playa del Carmen. Book in advance as these sessions are popular.

Snorkel with turtles in Akumal

Akumal is no longer a secret, but its swimmable lagoon remains the best place to snorkel with turtles in the Riviera Maya. The U-shaped bay and seagrass draw in turtles by the droves, with the coral reef protecting everything inside the bay. Because of the reef, the water here is always clear and calm – perfect conditions for snorkeling. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the elusive eagle ray swimming in the seagrass meadow.

To swim in the protected marine reserve, joining a guided snorkeling tour is mandatory. Snorkeling gear and life safety vests are included. Those with young kids can also sign up for a snorkel excursion and marine biology class here with We Love the Sea .

Fly over the jungles

Active travelers rejoice: the Ruta de Cenotes, just 30 minutes south of Cancún, is a vast expanse of tropical forest that plays host to several eco-adventure parks. These joints, complete with zip line circuits, jungle trails, and cenotes, promise adults and children alike a thrilling good time – with all the safety measures in place.

Selvática is outfitted with 10 different zip lines, flying fox circuits, and even a bungee swing. You can also choose to hop on an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) or a 4x4 buggy and trundle through the bush, though kids under 8 are not allowed on them for safety reasons. Cenotes Zapote is home to four different cenotes - including one with prehistoric sloth fossils. Each is equipped with its own zip line that whisk you through the wilderness.

Learn to surf at Puerto Aventuras

Puerto Aventuras is one of the best surfing beaches in the Riviera Maya, thanks to the perfect swells and water conditions. The beach is protected by seawalls, in a natural curve away from the open ocean.

Book yourself and your kids on fun, interactive lessons run by Nohoch Surf School . Their mini surf camps get raving reviews from little ones aged 4 to 12. If you’re already a surfer, the school has an excellent selection of boards that you can rent.

Explore Isla Cozumel on a Jeep

Across the bay from Playa del Carmen, Isla Cozumel makes for an easy island escape with its low-key atmosphere and rugged, empty beaches. The best way to explore the 30-mile (48 km) long island is to hire a jeep or buggy as most of the island is covered by lush tropical forests, nature reserves, and empty beaches.

Head straight to the Punta Sur Ecological Park at the southern tip of the island – this natural reserve sprawls across 2500 acres of lagoon systems, tropical rainforests, and wild beaches. See the Maya ruin El Caracol, cruise the saltwater lagoon and spot crocodiles, then climb the 133 steps onto the top of the Celarain Lighthouse.

Get artsy in SFER IK

A contemporary art museum constructed mainly out of bejuco (an endemic wood that resembles vine), SFER IK (pronounced spheric) is a work of art in itself. Built using traditional techniques by Maya artisans, the structure was designed to blend in perfectly with the lush jungles of Tulum.

Wander barefoot through the curving corridor and bridges made of twisted vine-like wood and admire the permanent art collection created by renowned artists such as Ernesto Neto and Artur Lescher. Circular windows open out to the dense tropical forest surrounding you, with the sound of the waves in the not-so-far distance – this spot truly showcases how nature and art intertwine in the Riviera Maya.

Cleanse your soul at a temazcal

The Riviera Maya may have developed rapidly over the past decades due to tourism – but its rich Maya culture and traditions remain. An interesting Maya ritual that’s still practiced today is the temazcal , a pre-Colombian purification ceremony believed to cleanse your soul and rid you of illnesses.

A Maya leader leads the rite, guiding you into a dome-shaped sweat house fired up by steaming volcanic rocks, before beating you with corn husks. In the boiling heat, it’s hardly a relaxing experience, but keep your cool and you might just leave rejuvenated and balanced. Yaax Healing Sanctuary runs temazcal ceremonies at full moon led by a Maya healer.

Sign up for a Maya cooking class

Take a crash course in Maya ancestral cuisine and experience a side of the Riviera Maya that few are familiar with. When you book a cooking class with a local Maya family, you’ll get to know them, take a peek into their lives, and learn all about Maya ingredients, traditional dishes, and cooking methods.

Maya Immersion gives you a chance to do just that: from tasting the achiote spice to making massa (corn paste) from scratch and wrapping your own tamales. You’ll discover a cuisine distinctive from the Yucatecan or Mexican culinary world we know.

You may also like: How to get around in Riviera Maya A guide to Playa del Carmen for digital nomads Where to find cenotes – Mexico's amazing natural swimming holes

Explore related stories

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

We asked four of our Mexico correspondents for recommendations about where they vacation in their country.

Jan 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Oct 7, 2023 • 14 min read

Jun 27, 2022 • 6 min read

Apr 14, 2022 • 6 min read

Apr 5, 2022 • 9 min read

Mar 30, 2022 • 11 min read

Jan 10, 2022 • 9 min read

Sep 5, 2020 • 8 min read

Aug 9, 2020 • 4 min read

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

View all tours

North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Viva Mexico: Ancient Ruins & the Mayan Riviera

14 days, mexico city to tulum.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

This 14-day adventure through the heart of Mexico has so much to love. Kicking off in its buzzing capital and wrapping up on the white sands of the Mayan Riviera, you’ll eat your way through endless tacos and mole, exploring the country’s epic mountains, jungles, and waterfalls too. Throw in some ancient Mayan ruins like Palenque and Chichen Itzá — not to mention storied traditions and some of the friendliest people ever — and you have yourself a recipe for one tasty, tasty trip.

Mexico City to Tulum

Special offers, is this tour for me, travel style: 18-to-thirtysomethings.

Fast, fresh, and fun adventures that never slow down, made for young, budget-minded travellers.

Service Level: Basic

Simple and clean hotels and hostels; affordable public and private transport; lots of optional activities.

Physical Rating: 2 - Light

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 18, avg 14

Age requirement: 18-39

Check your visa requirements.

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world with Trees for Days. Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 14

Ripple Score

Create ripples that change lives. The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 100

Places visited

Day 1 mexico city.

Arrive at any time.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 2 mexico city.

Start the adventure off with a CEO-led walking tour through La Condesa and Roma neighborhoods. Stroll past bohemian cafes, bars, and restaurants. Your CEO will grab some street food snacks for the group ranging from street tacos to chilaquiles. Savour whatever you sample as you continue to get to know the area. Finish up the tour near the giant Bosque de Chapultepec. Then, spend the afternoon trying out the optional activities in the area like a visit to the ruins of Teotihuacán.

Day 3 Mexico City/Oaxaca

Hit the road and travel south to Oaxaca from Mexico City. Once the group arrives we will head out for an orientation walk to the main square and some of the nearby markets. Soak in your first experience of the vibrant culture in Oaxaca. Enjoy a free evening to do as you please. Perhaps, find a lively restaurant and give your tastebuds something to dance about.

Day 4 Oaxaca

Today, enjoy a free day for optional activities in Oaxaca until late afternoon. Explore local taverns, discover the vibrant indigenous culture in the area, sample food from lively markets, try mole, and mezcal and fully experience the allure of this Mexican city. Later your CEO will accompany the group to the market where you can try a tlayuda, a toasted tortilla with tons of different toppings like refried beans, shredded cabbage, salsa, meat, and cheese. Cap off the day with a visit to a local chocolate-making shop and a free evening to keep the adventure going.

Day 5 Oaxaca/San Cristóbal

The group will have additional free time today in Oaxaca for other optional activities. Afterwards, visit the Alebrijes Artisan Community for your G for Good moment. Meet a local artisan, speak with them, ask any questions the group may have, and learn more about how these handicrafts are made. In the evening board and overnight bus to San Cristobal.

Day 6 San Cristóbal

Arrive early to Tuxtla Gutierrez, which is a city in southern Mexico and the capital of Chiapas. The group will travel by private bus to Sumidero Canyon for an included boat ride down the river. The trip is a few hours long and will take you through the canyon with some of the walls towering 2,500 feet above you. It’s sure to make you feel small. Keep a lookout for the wildlife in the area and try to spot caves as you journey on. Afterwards, continue on to San Cristobal de las Casas where you will stop for the evening.

Meals included:

Day 7 san cristóbal.

San Cristóbal de Las Casas is located in a high mountain valley at 2110m (6921 ft). Enjoy a free day to experience this city known for its 16th-century architecture. Opt to visit nearby indigenous Mayan villages to see their unique day-to-day, or visit Lagunas de Montebello National Park and the group of beautiful lakes near the Guatemalan border. You have a full day to do as you please and there are plenty of activities to try out.

Day 8 San Cristóbal/Palenque

Get ready for a full day of travel from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque. Along the way the group will stop to swim in the pristine turquoise waters of Roberto Barrios waterfall. Arrive to Palenque in the evening.

Day 9 Palenque

Enjoy a guided tour of the impressive Mayan ruins of Palenque followed by free time for an optional jungle trail hike, or just relax at the hotel keeping an eye out for nearby birds and wildlife.

Day 10 Palenque/Bacalar

Spend the day travelling to Bacalar in the eastern part of Mexico from Palenque. Sit back as the scenery changes outside your window and rest up for the next part of the trip.

Day 11 Bacalar

Spend a full free day enjoying optional activities in the area, or just relax and keep the good vibes going.

Day 12 Bacalar/Valladolid

The group is in for a treat this morning with an included boating adventure in the lagoon. In the afternoon it’s onward to Valladolid. Travel north and inland from Bacalar to a city on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Upon arrival your CEO will lead you on an orientation walk of the small Mayan town filled with quaint taverns, vibrant indigenous culture, and loads of street food vendors. Smell the delicious aromas as you walk and sample a few snacks along the way.

Day 13 Valladolid/Tulum

After a short, but sweet visit in Valladolid the group will travel to the Chichen Itzá ruins for a guided tour. These ruins hold the history, beliefs, and rituals that defined ancient Mayan civilization. See the Pyramid of Kukulcan, the famous Castillo, the cenote, and the Nunnery. Afterwards, travel to Tulum for a free evening. Tulum is filled with trendy beach clubs where you can dance the night away, or stretch out on white sand beaches to admire the colors at sunset.

Day 14 Tulum

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your G for Good Moment: Alebrijes Artisan Community Visit, Oaxaca
• Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Your Foodie Moment: Oaxaca Market Visit With CEO, Oaxaca
• Your Discover Moment: San Cristobal de Las Casas - Free Time, San Cristóbal de Las Casas
• Mexico City street food crawl
• Alebrijes Artisan Community visit
• Boat trip to Sumidero Canyon
• Stop at Roberto Barrios Waterfall for a swim
• Tour the Mayan ruins in Palenque
• A boat adventure into a gorgeous lagoon in Bacalar
• Chichen Itzá ruins guided tour
• Free time in Mexico City, Oaxaca, Palenque, San Cristóbal de las Casas
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Simple hotels/hostels (12 nts), overnight bus (1 nt).

1 breakfast Allow USD350-455 for meals not included.

Transportation

Public bus, private vehicle, overnight bus, walking.

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

Hierve el agua day trip - from $70.00.

Begin this activity in the morning with included transport to Hierve el Agua. This stunning natural formation consists of a series of mineral pools near the edge of a cliff. Over thousands of years, the heavily calcified water has flowed over the cliff, leaving mineral deposits as it does. The result is known as a "petrified waterfall" – nearly white rock formations that resembles a cascading fall. Upon arrival, enjoy a few hours of free time to explore the area and perhaps go for a swim in one of the mineral pools. Then, travel to a Mezcalería for a tour of the distillery which includes and explanation of the production process of mezcal and a tasting. The group will return to Oaxaca in the late afternoon. Please note these approximate travel times below: Oaxaca to Hierve el Agua - Between 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours Hierve el Agua to Mezcalería- 1 hour Mezcalería to Oaxaca - 45 minutes.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

8 BEST Mayan Ruins in Riviera Maya [2024]

By: Author Virginia Bello

Posted on Last updated: March 9, 2024

Categories Mexico , North America

Looking for Mayan Ruins in Riviera Maya? You’ll be spoilt for choice, really. Read on to find the best archaeological sites on the Mexican east coast – some may surprise you!

The Riviera Maya is primarily known for its pristine beaches and lush jungle, but it’s also scattered by a great number of Mayan settlements . 

Due to its closeness to the Caribean Sea, the ancient civilization established many of its communities in the area . This resulted in a very strong trading route that served many of the settlements located on the mainland.

It’s where you’ll find some of the best ruins in Mexico !

Most of the Mayan cities in the Riviera Maya were abandoned in the 15th and 16th centuries, following the Spanish conquests.

Left to the mercy of the elements for the next few hundred years, the result is the mesmerizing ruins that are so sought-after by visitors to this day . And the ones you’ll get to marvel at!

From ruins perched on a cliff to thousand-year-old pyramids you can still climb, there are many astounding Mayan Ruins in Riviera Maya . Let’s check them out!

Table of Contents

The Tulum Ruins are the most striking ones to the eye , situated on top of a cliff by the Caribbean Sea. The site boasts a prime location that influenced the prosperity of its inhabitants, serving as a crossroads for trade , both by sea and land. 

The city, built around 1200 AD, was completely walled when the Spaniards found it (the term Tulum actually means wall! ) and parts of its walls still remain.

Most of the settlement’s impressive structures have also endured the passing of time . One of the main ones is The Castle, which served as a lighthouse, an observatory, and even as the ruler’s residence.     

Pssst! If you climb down the wooden stairs at the edge of it, you’ll reach a secret little beach where to cool off after exploring the ruins. 

These Mayan ruins are near Akumal , so it’s very easy to visit from there and from any other town or city along the Riviera Maya. 

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.  Entrance Fee : 95 MXN ($6) at the time of writing. 

These are the best tours of the Tulum ruins from Riviera Maya.

➤ This Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves takes you on a guided visit around the stunning Tulum Mayan ruins. Then, head to the sea, where you’ll snorkel along the reef. Swimming in a cenote and limestone cave is also included in the trip. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Tulum Ruins Visit and Swim in a Cenote Guided Tour is a half-day excursion that takes you around the ancient ruins of Tulum with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll then visit and get to swim in a nearby cenote. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Coba is another striking Mayan site in the middle of the jungle. It’s home to one of the only Riviera Maya pyramids that you’re still allowed to climb . 

Nohoch Mul is the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula , and it takes 120 steep steps to get to the top. The climb is worth it, as you’ll get beautiful views from 137 feet high!

The archaeological site of Coba has three main areas, and it’s said that only a very small percentage of it has been excavated.  The rest remains hidden in the thick jungle.

It’s also the city with the largest network of sacbes , stone causeways in the entire Mayan world; another sign of its major significance. 

Coba is esteemed to have been inhabited from the 13th to the 15th century , so it’s not as old as most of its neighbors. While you can explore these Mayan Riviera ruins on your own, if you’re interested in learning more about them you can hire a guide on-site.

Opening Hours : Daily from 9 AM to 4 PM (last entry is at 3 PM). Entrance Fee : 100 MXN ($6) at the time of writing.

Looking to go on a tour? Here are the best tours to Coba from the Riviera Maya.

➤ The Coba Ruins, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, Cenote and Mayan Family is a full-day tour. It includes a visit to the Coba ruins, where you’ll bike around the Mayan pyramids, and a trip to Punta Laguna to zipline and hike. You’ll also spend some time with a Mayan family. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Tulum & Coba Ruins with Cenote Swim Tour from Playa del Carmen offers a combo of archaeological visits. Wander around Tulum Ruins and Coba with a professional guide. Your trip ends swimming in a beautiful cenote. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Chichen Itza, Coba, Cenote & Valladolid with Buffet Lunch is a 12-hour trip. It includes visits to both the Coba ruins and Chichen Itza, as well as a stop in a cenote and a tour around charming Valladolid. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

El Meco is a smaller archaeological site located north of Cancun. It houses the second tallest pyramid in the Peninsula , only surpassed by Chichen Itza’s.

There are 18 structures in El Meco scattered in three different plazas . They’re one of the best-preserved ruins in the area , so you’ll get to appreciate the intricate details engraved on the walls.

Be also on the lookout for the stone serpent heads at the bottom of the staircases, which represent the Mayan deity Kukulkan. 

El Meco was one of the settlements involved in the trade network of the region, given its privileged location by the sea. After its inhabitants left, it was populated by iguanas, which still call the site home . You’ll find lots of them, sunbathing and strolling among the ruins!   

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. The last entry is at 4 PM. Entrance Fee : 80 MXN ($4) currently.

CHICHEN ITZA

Chichen Itza is not exactly on the Riviera Maya, but it’s one of the most stunning archaeological sites in the country and needed to be on the list. It’s the great Chichen Itza, after all! 

Its most important structure is El Castillo, also known as the Kukulcan Pyramid. Besides being the biggest on the site, it’s worldwide famous because of the equinox phenomenon . Twice a year, with the afternoon sun, a serpent-shaped shadow slithers down the pyramid’s staircase.

It’s a mesmerizing spectacle to witness, and it attracts visitors from all over the world.

Chichen Itza is much more than El Castillo, though. There are 25 impressive buildings scattered in the 4-square-mile grounds. The site boasts the biggest ball court in the Mayan world , besides an observatory, and a marketplace. 

Chichen Itza alone is the reason for many people’s visit to Mexico!

The settlement was established around 400 AD , and inhabited for a thousand years before it was abandoned in the 1400s. During its golden years, Chichen Itza was one of the most important military and religious hubs of the region, and home to 30,000 people.

It was finally abandoned after long centuries of droughts and famine. 

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Last entry is at 4 PM. Entrance Fee : 614 MXN ($36) at the time of writing. Children pay half the entry fee. 

Below you’ll find the best Chichen Itza tours from Riviera Maya. 

➤ The Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour lasts a full day. It includes transfers from Riviera Maya, as well as a tour guide during the journey. After your tour of the ruins, you’ll get to swim in a cenote and visit Valladolid. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ This Chichen Itza Early Access, Cenote, Tequila & Lunch allows you to avoid the crowds by visiting the site first thing in the morning. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of the ruins and then get to swim in a cenote. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ If you’re looking for private Chichen Itza tours from Riviera Maya, this Skip the Line Chichen Itza Private Tour, Sacred Cenote & Lunch is for you. You’ll have your own transfer and guide for the day, and besides visiting the ruins you’ll get to swim in a cenote. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

El Rey (which means The King in Spanish) is one of the smallest archaeological sites, but it’s also very well located, right in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone . If you’re staying nearby, you can easily walk there. 

Like many of the settlements in the Riviera Maya, it was also part of the trade route . It’s also supposed to have been involved in salt extractions in the area . Fishing was also one of their main sources of income and food. 

The name of the ruins, though, is based on the human remains found on the site that according to historians correspond to a king. This suggests that the settlement could have been a royal retreat besides being a thriving village. 

The site is esteemed to have been inhabited from the 13th to the 15th century , so it’s not as old as most of its neighbors. While you can explore these Mayan Riviera ruins on your own, if you’re interested in learning more about the site you can hire a guide on-site to enjoy a more comprehensive visit. 

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Last entry is at 4.30 PM. Entrance Fee : 60 MXN ($3).

XCARET RUINS

Xcaret Ruins are located in the spectacular theme park Xcaret , which offers all sorts of adventurous activities in the jungle. 

The archaeological site is rather small and not as well-maintained as some of the most famous Mayan ruins. However, it played a very important role in the Mayan trading network during its heyday.

The ruins are at the end of a beautiful rainforest trail, but you’ll have to access Xcaret Park first . For this reason, the entrance is more expensive than the other ruins’. You’ll get to enjoy all the activities offered at the park, though, which are impressive!

Xcaret Park is a fantastic day trip destination in the Riviera Maya , and definitely worth the visit. The Mayan ruins are a great plus! 

Opening Hours : Daily from 8.30 AM to 10.30 PM. Entrance Fee to Xcaret Park : $110 (children 11 years old or younger pay half).

➤ This Priority Access: Xcaret Day Trip+ Night Show+ Transportation *Official Product* grants you use of all the activities and facilities. You’ll be able to visit the Mayan ruins, and also enjoy the spectacular night show. It includes pick-up from most hotels in Riviera Maya. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ You can otherwise get the Xcaret Admission and get there on your own. The ticket includes access to all the attractions plus the night show, and can be upgraded to include a buffet lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Ek Balam is another fabulous archaeological site located in the state of Yucatan, also deserving of a mention. It’s one of the latest ruins to be discovered, having remained hidden until the late 20th century! 

The site is still only partly uncovered, situated in the heart of the jungle that kept it concealed for so many centuries . It still boasts splendid and very massive structures, though.

The Acropolis, esteemed to have been the residence of the king, is 100 feet tall and over 500 feet long. And it can actually be climbed ! It’s very well-kept, and preserves the detailed decorations that cover its walls.  

Ek Balam Ruins are one of the longest-lasting settlements in the region . It’s supposed to have been established around 300 BC, and intermittently inhabited until the arrival of the Spaniards. 

Surrounded by stone walls that protected the ancient Mayan city, it showcases 45 structures. These include a ball court, a white road that connected it to other settlements, and intricately carved monuments and statues. 

Since it’s not fully uncovered, there was probably a greater number of buildings on the site . It was home to close to 20 thousand people at its peak, after all. 

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.  Entrance Fee : 531 MXN ($32) at the time of writing.

➤ This Full-day tour to Ek Balam and Cenote Maya from Cancun and Riviera Maya offers a guided visit to the ruins. You’ll also take part in a blessing ceremony and swim in a cenote. This Riviera Maya ruins tour departs from Cancun and various points in the Riviera. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Also in the Yucatan state is Uxmal, one of the most important – and largest – cities in the Mayan world . Uxmal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being one of the most representative settlements of Mayan culture and architecture. 

It’s also one of the best-preserved ruins from the Mayan empire, even though its heyday was all the way back to 500 – 900 AD.  

Its inhabitants, which were approximately 20 thousand at its peak, worshipped the god of rain, Chac . This was possibly because the site didn’t have any nearby water sources. Therefore, they depended on nature to grow their crops and collect water through artificial cisterns.  

There are over 30 structures in Uxmal, several of which can still be climbed . Like many other Mayan ruins, it features one main pyramid that steals all the attention. 

The Pyramid of the Magician is 130 feet tall and stands out for its rounded sides. It was built on top of 5 existing pyramids that remain underneath it . The name Uxmal actually means thrice-built , and refers to this very structure. 

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Entrance Fee : 531 MXN ($32) at the time of writing

MAYAN RUINS IN RIVIERA MAYA FAQs

There are several ruins in or near the Mayan Riviera, so it’s very easy to visit them!

Some fabulous Mayan ruins in Quintana Roo and Riviera Maya are Tulum Ruins , El Rey, Coba , and El Meco Ruins. 

Chichen Itza is about 93 miles from Riviera Maya, and the drive there takes a little over 2 hours. There are tons of Chichen Itza excursions from the Riviera Maya that you can join to visit the site. 

There are several Riviera Maya temples and pyramids from the Mayan that you can explore. El Rey, Tulum , Coba , and Xcaret Ruins are some of the most impressive ones! 

Certainly! Some of the tours I highly recommend to visit Mayan Ruins in Riviera Maya are these: • Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves • Chichen Itza, Coba, Cenote & Valladolid with Buffet Lunch • Full-day tour to Ek Balam and Cenote Maya from Cancun and Riviera Maya

Virginia is a writer originally from Montevideo, Uruguay. She left her career as a TV Producer to gain more freedom and never looked back. She's been traveling the world full-time ever since! Virginia has traveled extensively through Latin America, Europe and Asia. You can currently find her gallivanting through Southeast Asia.

Sign me up for the monthly newsletter!

This Virtual Tour of Mexico's Tulum Ruins Shows How the Maya Lived

T he Tulum Archaeological Zone is one of Mexico's greatest treasures and its third most-visited site (after Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza). Mostly built during the 13th century in the post-classic period, this Maya city was a major port for trading and commerce. 

Though the walled city was abandoned less than a century after the Spanish arrival, it is surprisingly well-preserved and deserves a spot on everyone's Mexico bucket list. But since we can't all hop on a plane at any whim, this virtual tour lets you enjoy the magnificent site from the comfort of your home ... for now.

The Entrance

Tulum, Mexico, is located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo on the Yucatan peninsula about a two-hour's drive south of Cancun. To visit the Tulum ruins, start in the center of Tulum Town, from where you can take a taxi or a shuttle. It's also possible to walk to the Tulum archaeological site if you like the idea of a one-hour stroll. Keep in mind that the journey is very pretty, but the heat is intense. 

Once you're at the ruins, you'll see a large stone wall that once protected the city, along with a watchtower. This feature is remarkable because the Maya rarely used fortifications, proving Tulum's importance due to its strategic position. (That said, other cities like Mayapan had more extensive walls.)

Continue on, and you'll pass through a stone archway to find the ticket booth, where tickets can be purchased and official guides are available to hire. While having a guide isn't necessary, you'll appreciate the site much more if you understand what life here was like.

RELATED: 35 Fascinating Facts About the Maya

Northwest House

The jungle soon gives way to a large cleared space filled with ruins. As you enter, the first structure you'll see is the Northwest House, thought to have been the house of an important member of the community. How do we know? Because it has a stone platform, something reserved only for the upper classes. 

You'll also see platforms with nothing on top near this house and throughout this site. These mark the homes of residents who were not as wealthy and who used materials that could not withstand time like stone does.

House of Columns

Continue on the path southward until you see the House of Columns. This large residential building once housed nobles. There is evidence of spaces that would have been used to receive visitors, many of whom came to Tulum to trade.

A row of columns marks the main entrance and the place where the main roof of the house used to be. One feature that stands out here is the thatched roof over a room that houses a statue of the Descending (or Diving) God, a deity closely linked to war and commerce.

House of Chultun

Keep walking south on the main road towards the House of Chultun, thought to be a residence. It has two staircases, columns and a shrine. 

Its most fascinating feature is the chultun, a kind of cistern. The residents of the building would collect rainwater to be used during dry spells. It also probably served as an emergency water source when hurricanes came and caused damage around the area.

Temple of the Frescoes

This beautifully preserved building hides a mural whose colors are still perceptible. Reflecting the Maya worldview, the mural is divided into three levels: The lowest represents the underworld, the middle represents our world, and the highest represents the place of the gods. Sadly, you won't be able to enter the room anymore.

But pay attention to the temple doorway, where you'll find a carving of the Descending God. 

In front of the Temple of the Frescoes, you'll find the most important building in Tulum: The Castle. 

Perched on a cliff over the Caribbean Sea, this structure is a 25-foot pyramid. The large upper temple was reached by a series of steep steps (though visitors can't climb them) and has yet another sculpture of the Descending God. Two smaller temples stand on the lower level. Throughout the structure, you can see serpents and stucco masks. 

The Castle is where the city's religious, political and social ceremonies would occur. Of course, many of these would have taken place in the temples, but there's also a platform in front of the structure that was used for dances. Besides being the spiritual and social center of the city, this structure served as a lighthouse. When canoes came from the sea, they could use its beacon to find their way to shore and avoid the surrounding reef.

On this part of the tour, you'll also get gorgeous views of the Caribbean.

Temple of the Descending God

It wasn't enough for the Maya people in Tulum to have numerous shrines and statues dedicated to the Descending God. This deity held such importance that they also built a dedicated temple to him. 

The small temple is on a higher level, with short steps and a single entrance. You won't be able to peer inside, but you can admire it from the outside, where a sculpture of the god can be seen. As usual, he is upside down, has wings and holds an object with two hands.

RELATED:  Where to See the Most Impressive Maya Ruins

Temple of the Wind God

Keep following the path next to the coast to reach one of the most photographed structures in the Tulum Archaeological Zone: the Temple of the Wind God. (You'll pass by the beach, but resist temptation, and don't go in just yet!)

Though the temple is small, it is dedicated to K'uk'ulkan, or the feathered serpent god known as Quetzalcoatl to the Aztecs. This deity was considered the god of creation, rain and wind, making him extremely important to daily life. Modern Maya were known to use this site for religious purposes up until the early 20th century.

It's an excellent example of a style of shrine that does not allow access to the inside. People would have venerated the sculpture protected wherein from the outside. 

Cenote House

Just west of the Temple of the Wind God is the Cenote House. Often ignored by tourists, this small structure hides a cenote (a natural sinkhole) that once served as another water source for the city. 

You can't see the cenote, but there are plenty around the ruins that you can visit after your (real-life) tour, including the Gran Cenote.

It's time to reward yourself with a little dip in the Caribbean Sea. Head back on the main path along the coast until you see a beach access path. Take the stairs to a small cove in between the Temple of the Wind God and the Castle. The views are absolutely amazing.

Tulum was one of the few major Maya cities built on the coast, so it offers the unique chance to enjoy Maya ruins from the sea.

The combination of the stone structures perched on cliffs, the white sand and the baby blue water of the Caribbean lands this beach among the most beautiful in Mexico .

Leaving the Tulum Ruins

Once you're back from the beach, you can walk along the coastal path to enjoy the views a little longer. 

As you make your way to the exit, take a look around this incredible archaeological treasure — and say goodbye to the wild iguanas that now inhabit it.

Travel the Yucatán Peninsula for less: Deals in Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum

"GMA" Bucket List on a Budget is headed to Mexico!

With miles of crystal clear waters, white sand beaches and a culture that's steeped in history, it comes as no surprise that the Yucatán Peninsula is home to top travel destinations like Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

The area that separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean Sea consistently captivates globe trotters -- ranking in Google's top 10 summer destinations year after year -- and now "Good Morning America" has taken the trip for less, finding all the best deals and ways to save for Bucket List on a Budget.

Flights to Cancún

Roundtrip airfare from Houston to Cancún typically costs around $200 on airlines like Frontier or Spirit this time of year, but you'll pay extra for baggage.

Budget Travel Tip : Be sure to set a tracker on Google Flights to keep an eye out for the best times to travel for less, and especially if you can be flexible on the dates.

All-inclusive resorts to help save on your stay

Mexico is home to a bevy of beautiful properties, but the best bang for your buck when it comes to accommodations are all-inclusive resorts.

"All-inclusive hotels can be extremely affordable. And the best part is they allow families especially to budget," The Points Guy founder, Brian Kelly, told "GMA."

To make sure you're getting the best deal, he suggested "comparison shop online using online travel agencies, but when you hone in on the one you want, contact them directly and negotiate for an even better rate and extra perks like airport pickups."

"Choose the right resort, whether that's kid friendly or adults-only," Kelly said, "making the right choice is critical to your experience."

"Finally, take advantage of everything there is to offer," he said. "Go to the orientation and pay attention. You'd be shocked at some of the free, valuable activities you can get as part of your stay."

In Playa del Carmen, Sandos Caracol Eco Resort offers up to 55% off the best available rate all summer, plus two kids stay free.

Like many all-inclusives food and drinks are bundled into the price at Sandos Caracol, but so are the activities from pools with waterslides to bike tours.

This region of Mexico is also home to beautiful ancient Mayan ruins and cenotes -- which translates to well -- and the all-natural cavernous pit makes a perfect place for swimming, diving and snorkeling.

Activities to enjoy the area like a local

Book off-site excursions during your stay, whether directly through the resort with any affiliated companies or going directly to an excursion company and ask for any potential discounts.

Tours of Tulum reveal ancient history

Nestled on the cliffs of Tulum lie ancient Mayan ruins that overlook the Caribbean Sea.

Tour services will take visitors through the area to fully experience the ancient Mexican culture, like ruins built over 800 years ago that served as a major port between Mexico and Central America.

Parks and pleasantries in Playa del Carmen

Take a trip to Parque Los Fundadores -- Founding Fathers Park -- in Playa Del Carmen to see free vibrant performances such as the Danza de Los Voladores -- the dance of the flyers.

From there, enjoy some local shopping along Fifth Avenue, but remember to bring cash and make money conversions at a local bank from home before the trip to save on foreign transaction fees.

Learn at least basic Mexican phrases and pleasantries to help make shopping less intimidating, plus being respectful and kind always pays off and it could even potentially help you haggle on prices.

Indulge in Mexican street food

While there's unlimited free food at an all inclusive resort, don't miss the chance to eat like a local and explore some cheap eats from taco stands and street vendors.

Trending Reader Picks

From his Montana ranch, a retired lawmaker is angling for a comeback in a crowded House race

• Jun 1, 12:08 AM

Johnny Wactor's co-worker recalls night he died

• May 31, 9:02 AM

Eric Dane attends movie premiere with daughters

• May 31, 11:39 AM

Like tacos for under $2 each from El Fogon in Cancún or dessert stands like Fresas Aline in Playa del Carmen that sells fresh strawberries with cream for just $4.

Family fun entertainment aboard a pirate ship

The Captain Hook Pirate Show in Cancún, complete with dancing, sword fights and pirate battles, has deals for up to 20% off advance bookings and kids ages 2-11 go for free.

Plus, all of the dinner options come with a buffet and some of the main dishes are part of a two for the price of one deal.

GMA Travel Picks

By clicking on these shopping links, visitors will leave Goodmorningamerica.com . These e-commerce sites are operated under different terms and privacy policies than Goodmorningamerica.com . ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Influencers may receive a commission or have business relationships with a recommended brand. SOME PRICES ARE DYNAMIC AND MAY CHANGE FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. Have questions about ordering or a purchase? Click here .

Pink Platinum Girls' Rash Guard Shirt - 2 Pack UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Quick Dry Swim Shirt (Size: 4-16)

iXtreme Boys' Rash Guard Shirts Long Sleeve - 2 Pack UPF 50+ Quick Dry Sun Protection Swim Shirts - (5-18)

Crown Vintage Poseidon Water Shoe - Kids'

Owala Flip Kids Vacuum Water Bottle - 14 fl. oz.

Bicycle Standard Playing Cards - Red or Blue

Crayola Classic Crayons, Assorted Colors, Back to School, 24 Count

Sorry! Diced Game, Easy to Learn Game, Quick Game, Portable Travel Game

Weveel Magnetic Four in a Row Tin Game - Birthday Party Favors

Magnetic Tic Tac Toe Tin Game by WeVeel - Ages 3+ - Birthday Party Favors

Gamie Magnetic Travel Board Game Set - 12 Retro Games - Compact - Best for Travel - Kids 6+

Old Maid Jumbo Kids' Deck by Cartamundi

25pcs Frosted Zipper Bags, Plastic Shirt Bags

Dolfino Youth Tinted Swim Goggles with Silicone Strap and UV Protection for Children, Multi-Color (3 Pack)

Thinksport Clear Zinc SPF 50 Sunscreen

Badger Aloe Vera After Sun Gel - 4 fl. oz.

Quitch Bug Bite Relief Stickers

WOLFANG Action Camera 4K 24MP WiFi Vlogging Camera Underwater 40M with Remote Control IP68 Waterproof Case

Lonely Planet Cancun, Cozumel & the Yucatan (Travel Guide) Paperback

Collapsible Beach Toys for Kids Toddlers, Sand Bucket and Shovels Set with Mesh Bag

TravelSuds Laundry Detergent Sink Packets (20 pack)

JBL Clip 3, River Teal - Waterproof, Durable & Portable Bluetooth Speaker - Up to 10 Hours of Play - Includes Noise-Cancelling Speakerphone & Wireless Streaming

Robert De Niro celebrates daughter Gia's birthday

• Jun 1, 10:13 AM

UK ambassador to Mexico out after video goes viral

• Jun 1, 7:28 AM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events