Things to do in Riviera Maya

The area along the Mexican Caribbean coast called Riviera Maya is a very popular destination for people from all over the world. With its pristine beaches, lush jungle, and rich cultural heritage, the Riviera Maya is a treasure chest of experiences for every type of traveler. Looking for exciting adventures? Let’s go scuba diving. In the right season, you can even dive with sharks. Or do you prefer culture? The last Mayan ruins located on a beach are in Tulum. This tropical paradise has something that will probably captivate you.

Let us tell you about the coolest things to do in the Riviera Maya, offering you a glimpse into a world where adventure, culture, and relaxation converge in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, an explorer, or a connoisseur of fine taste, the Riviera Maya promises an unforgettable journey filled with memories waiting to be made.

1. Visit Tulum

Ensuring travelers’ safety is paramount, and the Riviera Maya stands out as a destination that prioritizes this aspect. With a thriving tourism industry, the region has implemented comprehensive measures to guarantee visitors’ well-being. Popular tourist hubs, upscale resorts, and captivating attractions are equipped with vigilant security personnel, instilling a sense of confidence as you delve into its myriad treasures. While, like any locale, minor incidents can occur, adhering to simple precautions—such as safeguarding personal belongings and avoiding dimly lit areas—goes a long way in mitigating potential risks. Familiarizing yourself with local guidelines and respectfully embracing the local customs further enhances your safety. By maintaining awareness and staying attuned to your surroundings, you can wholeheartedly immerse yourself in the Riviera Maya’s enchanting landscapes and diverse adventures, all while ensuring a secure and unforgettable sojourn.

2. Swim in a Cenote

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of cenotes, nature’s hidden gems. These natural sinkholes, formed over millennia, offer a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Delve into the crystal-clear, aquamarine waters surrounded by lush jungle foliage.

Whether you’re an avid swimmer, a curious adventurer, or simply seeking tranquility, cenotes provide a unique and rejuvenating experience. Feel the ancient energy that emanates from these geological wonders, and let the serenity of the cenotes wash over you as you connect with nature in its purest form.

3. Diving and snorkeling

Underwater activities are popular in Riviera Maya. These include snorkeling and scuba diving. For the more adventurous, there are even spots to dive with crocodiles, such as in Banco Chinchorro. But there are also areas without crocodiles.

If that is too crazy for you, you can also snorkel through the underwater world. There are more than a dozen different sports to explore. And for everyone, from beginners to professionals. A popular spot for snorkeling is Cozumel Island, for example. Encounters with spectacular corals, tropical fish, turtles, octopuses and lobsters are guaranteed.

4. Jungle Gym Tulum

Have you heard of the Jungle Gym? It’s not just any gym. This gym is in Tulum and is located right on the beach. The style of the facility has made it what it is today. Most of the equipment is made of fine wood, medium sized stones are used as weights for the pulley machine, and other little weirdnesses make a trip to this gym worthwhile.
A day ticket costs 300 MXN and is about $17. You can check their website www.tulumjunglegym.com for opening hours.

5. Invisible boat tour

This boat tour is different from the boat tours you know. The invisible boats are completely transparent, so you can admire the underwater world from the boat. Of course, the tour operators also make stops so you can go snorkeling. You will be overwhelmed by the variety of tropical fish.

If you think that might be something for you, check out the website www.envatours.com. You can reserve your spot online which is $49 and have a tour for 1.5 hours.

6. Excursion to the Sian Kaʼan Biosphere Reserve

The entrance to the Sian Kaʼan Biosphere Reserve is about 20 minutes from the city of Tulum. In Tulum there are many offers for full day tours in Sian Kaʼan. For the more adventurous, you can also organize your own side trip there. If you have a maps app, you can just type in “Laguna Tours Muyil” and it should take you right there, but otherwise the route is really simple. Once you reach the parking lot, which is just a few hundred yards past the Muyil Marine parking lot, you’ll walk down a beautifully wooded path to the dock. The walk takes about 10 minutes and here you’ll find certified guides who will take you out on their boats.

This location is more than an ecosystem’s haven; it holds historical significance. In ages past, it was a bustling Mayan trading conduit, its waterways uniting distant lagoons through smaller channels. Avenues of trade converged here, as diverse as the cultures they represented. Salt and gold flowed in exchange for coveted jade, a testament to the Mayan’s regard for this precious stone. Today, this dual legacy – cultural and ecological – invites visitors to partake in a journey that transcends time. If you are lucky, you can also swim with dolphins.