Riviera Maya Vacation Packages

Starting on the east coast, Cancun’s got an epic party scene. Cozumel is the mecca for diving and snorkeling. On the west coast, if you’re into adventure, head to Mazatlan to explore historic ruins or hit Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo for a similar vibe, but a bit more upscale. For those who want to escape into the wilds of nature, Huatulco and Mazanillo are your places to explore. Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos have majestic mountains that kiss their beachy shores, along with amazing golf courses, breathtaking resorts and stunning beaches. But Cabo, situated at the tip of Baja, where the shimmering Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific, not only has a hip party scene, it also has the iconic Los Arcos, where you can slow down and let the beguiling magic of Mexico wash over you.

Gotta love those mystical Mayans. They continue to be one of the most awe-inspiring cultures from the ancient world. One of the most iconic examples of these mysterious people is Tulum, a pre-Columbian city that was the major port for Coba between the 13th and 15th centuries, where one of the top trades was, of all things, obsidian–volcanic glass. Grab your walking shoes and get ready to meander around 60 well-preserved structures that are cloistered behind a big stone wall. After you’ve learned about all the enigmatic deities in their culture, marveled at how they constructed such an intricate, sturdy maze, take the staircase down to the sugar-white, sandy beach hugged by turquoise waves and cool off.

More Mayan goodness can be found at these spots. Back in the day (and we’re talking waaay back), Xcaret was once a Mayan port for departures to Cozumel. Since then, it’s evolved into a one-stop shop for exploring the ecology and culture of this unique area with 40 natural attractions: a butterfly pavilion, a beautiful coral reef aquarium, along with a funky cone-shaped Mayan cemetery. Afterwards, you can chill at the beach, swim with dolphins–or even sharks. Xel-ha, known as “the place where water is born,” is an incredible natural aquarium where the ocean and freshwater currents combine to create springs and underground rivers. While it may not be the exact birthplace of water, you'll seriously dig snorkeling and splashing through this rockin’ ecosystem of exotic birds, marine life and other animals. Don’t miss Sea Trek, where with the help of a specialized helmet, you can walk (and breathe) under water on the seabed–without any previous training–and ogle all the ocean eye candy.

These are not just ordinary turtles. They’re endangered green sea turtles. They can weigh up to 700 pounds and live until they’re 80. Their favorite thing to eat is sea grass and it’s found all over the bottom of the ocean floor. And they spend a good long time chowing down, so you can swim up and get a good look at them. Other passersby, like barracudas and sting rays, can be seen after you’ve taken the plunge, so bring your underwater camera and snag some fabulous photos.

Language: The main language in the Riviera Maya is Spanish, but many in the tourism industry speak English. Currency: The official currency is the peso, but USD is also accepted. Electricity: The standard electricity supply in the Riviera Maya is 110 volts with two-prong outlets Passport/Immigration: All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport when traveling to and from Riviera Maya. Drinking Water: Drink and brush your teeth with bottled water. Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC/GMT -5 hours) Peak Season: The peak travel season for the Riviera Maya runs from December to April.

Jungle Maya in Riviera Maya offers an immersive and thrilling adventure in the heart of the Mayan jungle. This complete adventure combines a range of exciting activities with cultural experiences, allowing participants to explore the region's natural wonders and rich heritage.

The journey begins with a rappel into a beautiful cenote, a freshwater sinkhole, providing an exhilarating descent into the depths of the earth. Once in the cenote, participants can snorkel along the longest underground river system in the Yucatan Peninsula. The crystal-clear waters offer a unique perspective of the underground world, allowing guests to marvel at the intricate rock formations and the fascinating aquatic life that inhabits this hidden realm.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Jungle Maya offers thrilling zip lines that allow participants to fly over the jungle canopy. Soaring through the treetops, guests can embrace the breathtaking views and feel the adrenaline rush as they zip from platform to platform, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding jungle.

Alternatively, participants can take the helm of a 4x4 Mercedes Benz truck to explore the jungle from the ground. This off-road adventure allows guests to navigate through rugged terrain, witnessing the dense vegetation, diverse wildlife, and ancient trees that make up the lush jungle landscape.

As part of the Jungle Maya experience, participants can partake in a ceremony led by a local shaman. This cultural encounter provides a deeper connection to the Mayan traditions and spirituality, allowing guests to experience the ancient rituals and wisdom of the local culture.

A buffet lunch is also included, providing a chance to refuel and savor various delicious dishes showcasing the region's flavors. This meal allows participants to relax and replenish their energy amidst the natural surroundings.

Jungle Maya in Riviera Maya offers a complete adventure that combines exhilarating activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. It allows participants to explore the natural wonders of the Mayan jungle while connecting with the rich history and traditions of the region.

Rio Secreto in Riviera Maya offers a remarkable and awe-inspiring experience as visitors explore an underground river system that forms a part of the intricate water networks in the area. This adventure takes participants into a subterranean world, providing a unique opportunity to swim and witness the mesmerizing beauty of thousands of stalactite and stalagmite formations.

The journey begins as participants venture underground, immersing themselves in the hidden wonders of Rio Secreto. As they swim through the underground river, they are surrounded by a breathtaking display of stalactites and stalagmites. These natural formations, created over thousands of years, create a surreal and otherworldly ambiance, leaving visitors in awe of the sheer beauty and intricate details that nature has crafted.

Exploring Rio Secreto offers a captivating and unique perspective of the underground world. As participants navigate through the crystal-clear waters, they can observe the delicate formations up close, marveling at their size, shape, and the mesmerizing play of light and shadow that dances upon them.

The underground river system at Rio Secreto is a testament to the awe-inspiring forces of nature. The journey through this hidden world allows visitors to connect with the ancient geological processes that have shaped the Riviera Maya over millennia.

Rio Secreto offers a unique experience that celebrates the region's natural wonders. It provides a serene and immersive adventure that highlights the delicate and remarkable beauty of the underground world.

Xplor in Riviera Maya is an exhilarating adventure park that promises an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers amidst the unspoiled Mayan jungle. This unique destination offers a wide range of thrilling activities that allow visitors to soar, swim, ride, and raft through the mystical and breathtaking landscapes of the park.

One of the main highlights of Xplor is the thrilling zip lines that take participants soaring high above the jungle canopy. Offering a bird's-eye view of the lush vegetation, guests can feel the rush of adrenaline as they zip along the lines, experiencing the thrill of flight and taking in the panoramic beauty of the surrounding jungle.

Another exciting activity at Xplor is swimming in the underground rivers. These mystical rivers allow participants to immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty as they navigate through the crystal-clear waters. The underground rivers create a magical ambiance, and swimming along their currents provides a unique and mesmerizing experience.

Xplor also offers the opportunity to ride on amphibious vehicles, adding an adventurous twist to the exploration. In these specially designed vehicles, guests can navigate through rugged terrains, including jungle trails and rocky paths. This activity allows for an exciting off-road adventure, discovering hidden corners of the jungle and enjoying a thrilling ride.

Xplor offers rafting through the mystical underground waters for those seeking more water-based adventures. Participants can paddle through the hidden rivers, surrounded by ancient rock formations and captivating natural landscapes. This activity allows guests to immerse themselves in the mystical underground world while enjoying an exhilarating and unique rafting experience.

Xplor in Riviera Maya is a haven for thrill-seekers, offering an array of adrenaline-pumping activities set amidst the unspoiled beauty of the Mayan jungle. The park combines the thrill of zip lines, the serenity of swimming in underground rivers, the adventure of riding amphibious vehicles, and the excitement of rafting, ensuring a memorable and action-packed experience for all who visit.

By embarking on this thrilling adventure at Xplor, participants can satisfy their craving for excitement, immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the Mayan jungle, and create lasting memories of an adrenaline-fueled journey through the mystical landscapes of Riviera Maya.

One of the hautest spots on this part of the Yucatan, this nosh spot boasts an open-fire grill and wood-burning oven. The menu includes snacks like luscious gorditas made from Oaxaca cheese and epazote. Small plates like grilled avocado, seasoned with aromatic salt, ponzu and almonds. Large plates like whole roasted fish with tomatillo salsa and cilantro. Desserts include guava cheesecake with amaranth graham cracker crust and raspberries. If you think this sounds delicious, wait until you experience the intoxicating atmosphere (and we’re not talking just the drinks). You’ll dine outside in a magical, open-air setting with the flora as your ceiling. Sparkly lights are hung from the trees, the drinks are stellar and the vibe is effortlessly chic.

Least you think Tulum is just a boring lot of dusty ruins, you’d be wrong. This iconic edifice on a towering cliff has blossomed into a haven–a backdrop–for hipsters from all over the world. You can thank many New Yorkers who have come in and converted a wild tangle of roots and trees into eco-boho-crunchy meccas, aka Soho in the Jungle. Gourmet spots, toney boutiques, green smoothie stands and yoga pants aplenty can be found in this tropical earth heaven. Bike riding is also the thing to do here and how everyone gets around.

After you’ve made the trek all around this imposing, vast Mayan complex and learned about all the half-human, half-animal deities, marveled at the meticulously sculpted corners of buildings and watched the iguanas bravely guard their scaly harem, you’ll be very happy to head down the stairs to the beach just below the ruins. The water is pure heaven: clear blue, perfect temp and refreshing beyond words.

Day of the Dead, otherwise known as Halloween most everywhere else, is a big, big party in Riviera Maya full of festivals and parades. But it’s not like your typical trick or treat thing: it lasts from October 31 to November 2. On October 31, All Hallows Eve, the children make altars and invite spirits of angelitos (the dead children) to visit. November 1, All Saints Day, the adults come to visit. And November 2, All Souls Day, is when families go to the graves to decorate those of their loved ones who have passed on. But it’s far from somber. All over this tropical wonderland, you’ll see faces painted, people in costumes and shrines set up to honor those they’ve lost. A totally unique experience to witness!

Beaching with the kiddos is always a blast, but sometimes with their limited attention spans, you might need some help. Enter, shipwrecks– sunken treasures and mysteries of the deep at the CEDAM Subaquatic Museum. Here, your munchkins can become engrossed in artifacts recovered from ship wrecks around the area that were discovered by early pioneers of diving, along with awesome relics from pirates, wenches and marine warfare.

Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the second busiest airport in Mexico. With over 200 flights a day, Cancun International Airport has recently undergone a massive expansion project to accommodate the influx of passengers and cargo for years to come. For more information on current travel advisories for Mexico, please visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_6033.html

When you reach the arriving terminal, you’ll be guided to the immigration hall where you’ll form a line and wait for your turn with the immigration officer. Supply the officer with your passport and answer a few routine questions about the nature of your stay. Regarding customs, for US and European travelers, all you need to do is produce a current passport in order to enter and leave Riviera Maya.

Some travelers often have concerns about vacationing in Mexico. For the past several years, Cheapcaribbean.com has partnered with Amstar as our premier transportation company to provide safe, comfortable and professional transportation for our clients from the airport to and from your hotel and back. They’ll also provide transportation to any excursions booked through our site that you’d like to take while you’re in your destination. Amstar is also the official transportation rep for CheapCaribbean.com excursions when you book vacations to Mexico on our site. The majority of our partner hotels have an Amstar desk in or near the lobby so they’re easy to find, should you need them. For this reason, we suggest that our guests do not rent cars while in the Caribbean or Mexico as traffic laws and road quality and street signs are not the same as they are in the US.

The overall layout of Riviera Maya is tourist-friendly and easy to explore. If you need to get around the area, the bus is the preferred mode of transportation as it's both affordable and operates throughout the day. If you'd rather have some privacy, taxis are always available, but can be a bit expensive to use so make sure you agree upon the fare before getting in. Another popular way to get around Riviera Maya is by renting a car, but make sure the car is in good condition or the police may stop you.