Welcome to voyage mexico, your generalist portal to explore the Riviera Maya with a clear, warm and professional vision. This homepage offers a global and inspiring overview of the region, designed to be understood in all languages and adapted to all forms of travel: as a couple, family, group or solo. We emphasize the diversity of landscapes, cultures and experiences, while keeping a clear structure to organize your adventure without stress.
Key cities
10 destinations
Experiences
Beaches, cenotes, culture
2026 tips
Clear & actionable
Visualize the coastal axis, access via Cancún and the distribution of the main cities. This stylized map helps you understand distances and plan smooth itineraries from north to south.
Our content is designed to guide without overloading, with balanced and easy-to-translate information. The Riviera Maya is best discovered with a clear structure and a global view of the options.
The Riviera Maya is a coastal strip located on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, stretching from Puerto Morelos to the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve. It stands out for a unique contrast between the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, dense tropical forests and the underground network of rivers and cenotes. This territory is one of the most fascinating in the country, as it combines a living Maya heritage, emblematic archaeological sites, preserved nature and modern tourist infrastructure.
In 2026, the Riviera Maya attracts travelers in search of varied experiences: relaxation on white-sand beaches, cultural immersion in colonial towns, exploration of natural reserves, aquatic adventures and culinary discoveries. This generalist guide was designed to provide a complete panorama without jargon, favoring accessible descriptions, a clear structure and practical advice. The goal is to help you understand geography, distances, seasons and the best combinations of places for a harmonious stay.
The region is also a cultural meeting point between Maya heritage, Mexican modernity and Caribbean influence. This diversity is felt in craft markets, gastronomy, music, and the rhythm of life that varies from one town to another. You will find here a complete guide to explore the main cities, quieter places, ecotourism experiences and tips for traveling responsibly.
Cancún is a city, while the Riviera Maya is a region. The city of Cancún is organized around a modern hotel zone, a lively urban center and an international airport that is the main gateway to explore the entire coast. The Riviera Maya, on the other hand, groups together a set of destinations further south: Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Morelos, as well as many natural reserves and archaeological sites.
The two are complementary: Cancún offers easy arrival, full services and a very active nightlife, while the Riviera Maya offers a more varied experience, ranging from luxury to ecotourism. Travelers often alternate between the lively beaches of Cancún and quieter stops in coastal villages or inland cities like Valladolid. This guide provides a unified vision to help you allocate your time according to your desires.
To dive deeper into the urban destination and its marine activities, you can consult the page dedicated to Cancún, while all the cities and experiences of the Riviera Maya are explored here in a structured way.
The lively heart of the region, the city combines nightlife, shopping, restaurants and direct access to the island of Cozumel. Quinta Avenida is a central axis perfect for strolling, dining and feeling the local energy.
Discover Playa del CarmenA trendy destination, Tulum is renowned for its seaside ruins, bohemian atmosphere and iconic beaches. Accommodations range from eco-friendly boutique hotels to premium comfort.
Explore TulumAuthentic, calm village, ideal for snorkeling on the coral reef.
See Puerto MorelosThe lagoon of seven colors, a world of fresh water for relaxation and water activities.
Explore BacalarParadise island, wildlife, slow atmosphere and preserved beaches.
Discover HolboxTwo inland cities for cultural immersion: Valladolid, a charming colonial town, and Mérida, cultural capital of Yucatán.
Fortified city listed as a World Heritage Site, ideal for a historical and peaceful break.
Visit CampecheChoose a style: relaxation, balance or intensive exploration, to adapt your stops.
Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Valladolid are practical bases to branch out.
Alternate beaches, cenotes, Maya sites and markets for a complete experience.
Add free days to handle the weather or follow your favorites.
The beaches of the Riviera Maya are often associated with postcards: fine sand, transparent water and palm trees. Some are very famous, like Playa Paraíso in Tulum, while others like Punta Maroma or Xpu-Ha remain more serene depending on the period. In 2026, managing sargassum remains a seasonal issue; the tip is to check locally, vary beaches and favor naturally protected areas. The coastline offers great diversity: calm bays, open beaches for water sports and family swimming areas.
Cenotes are emblematic natural treasures: there are open, semi-open and cave cenotes. The most appreciated include Gran Cenote, Cenote Azul, Chaac Mool, Tajma Ha and the underground routes of Rio Secreto. Activities vary by type: contemplative swimming, snorkeling, diving and gentle exploration. Bring water shoes and avoid non-biodegradable sunscreens to preserve these sensitive environments.
The archaeological sites of the region provide a fascinating reading of the Maya civilization. Tulum stands out for its location on a cliff facing the sea. Cobá, deeply nestled in the jungle, is visited by bike to enjoy its long shaded paths. Chichén Itzá, though farther away, remains emblematic for understanding the cultural importance of the region. Ek Balam and Muyil are quieter alternatives for those who wish to avoid crowds while accessing spectacular views.
Use this simulator to estimate a budget and a pace of visits according to your profile. This tool is intentionally simple and educational. It allows you to anticipate an order of magnitude, then adjust according to your preferences. You can then explore each destination further via our dedicated pages such as Tulum or Playa del Carmen.
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This calculator is indicative. Actual costs vary by season, accommodation location, and your activity choices.
The Riviera Maya is a natural playground where water is everywhere. Diving and snorkeling are must-dos, especially in Puerto Morelos for the coral reef, in Cozumel for its deep waters, and in Akumal to observe turtles in a respectful environment. Catamaran excursions offer a different perspective on the coast, often combined with swimming sessions. Kayaking and gentle navigation are ideal in lagoons and mangroves, especially around Sian Ka’an.
For an immersion in nature, reserves like Sian Ka’an or Punta Laguna allow you to observe rich wildlife, from birds to monkeys, while supporting ecotourism initiatives. Theme parks, such as Xcaret, Xplor and Xel-Há, offer a mix of sports and cultural activities, suitable for all ages. Selvatica is appreciated for jungle adventure and zip lines. These places are perfect for those who want a safe environment with a wide diversity of experiences.
For those seeking more unique experiences, artistic diving at MUSA (underwater museum) offers a meeting between art and nature. Night excursions to observe bioluminescence, especially in certain lagoons, offer a rare emotion. Finally, rural activities around Maya villages allow you to learn about local cuisine, temazcal ceremonies and craftsmanship.
Contemporary Maya culture is a pillar of the region. Beyond the ruins, you can discover communities that share their know-how, rituals and gastronomy. Temazcal ceremonies, discovering craft markets and home visits add a human dimension to the trip. In the cities, the culinary scene offers tasty tacos, Yucatecan recipes like cochinita pibil and markets where you can taste local specialties at a controlled cost.
Cultural immersion is also built through festivals, music and places of exchange. Valladolid and Mérida offer a more authentic atmosphere, with regular events and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Letting yourself be carried by a local guided tour is often the best way to understand the stories and traditions that shape the region.
The nightlife of the Riviera Maya adapts to all profiles. In Playa del Carmen and Cancún, beach clubs and lively bars offer a festive and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Coco Bongo is one of the most famous shows, combining artistic performance and nightlife energy. For more elegant entertainment, the Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ show at Vidanta offers a refined and immersive scenographic universe.
For those who prefer the softness of an evening by the sea, Tulum offers more bohemian atmospheres, often around live music and intimate beach lounges. The secret to a successful evening is to identify the style of place that matches your pace: some prioritize dancing, others atmosphere and gastronomy.
The best time to visit generally runs from November to April, during the dry season. The more humid months bring short but intense showers, and very lush vegetation. Sargassum is more frequent at certain periods; checking locally helps to adapt the beaches chosen.
On transportation, renting a car offers great freedom, while ADO buses and colectivos allow you to move around easily on a controlled budget. For transfers from Cancún airport, multiple options exist, from economical shared shuttles to private service.
In terms of budget, it is possible to adapt your expenses with local meals, free beaches and visits outside peak periods. The main currency is the Mexican peso, but the dollar is sometimes accepted; it is advisable to use the peso to avoid unfavorable rates.
For health and safety, travel insurance is strongly recommended. Protect yourself from mosquitoes, hydrate regularly and favor biodegradable sun protection. Water shoes are useful for cenotes and rocky beaches.
An effective itinerary relies on balanced stops. For a stay of 3 to 5 days, choose a base like Playa del Carmen or Tulum, with an excursion to an archaeological site and a cenote. For a week, combine a coastal town, a nature excursion and an inland stop in Valladolid. For two weeks, you can add Bacalar, Holbox or even Mérida and Campeche for a more cultural immersion.
Families will appreciate shorter days and accessible activities, like Xel-Há or calm beaches. Adventurers can alternate diving, cenote exploration and forest treks. Couples often look for a balance between relaxation and exceptional experiences such as bike rides in Tulum or more intimate excursions to Punta Laguna.
In case of capricious weather, underground cenotes and museums are good alternatives. The city centers of Playa del Carmen or Mérida offer galleries, covered markets and pleasant cafés. If sargassum impacts a beach, it is often possible to move to less affected areas. Keep a list of flexible options and do not overload your program to avoid frustration.
Among the most memorable experiences, a guided visit to Cobá with a local guide provides a more human reading of the Maya city. A day in Punta Laguna, between nature, local communities and jungle discovery, allows you to reconnect with the essentials. Diving at MUSA, where submerged sculptures create a living museum, offers a unique moment. Finally, sunrise bike rides in Tulum remain a particularly appreciated memory.
Choosing local providers, favoring small structures and respecting environmental protection rules are simple gestures that make the trip more authentic and sustainable. Avoiding mass tourism also means giving yourself time for a conversation with an artisan, an impromptu tasting or a morning outing on a lesser-known beach.
“A clear, modern and easy-to-follow guide. We built our itinerary by combining beaches and culture, without stress.”
— Élodie, trip as a couple
“Very useful for understanding the difference between Cancún and the Riviera Maya. The practical tips helped us optimize our budget.”
— Marc, family trip
“The section on cenotes and archaeological sites is precise and pleasant to read. Perfect for inspiration.”
— Amina, solo trip
| Style | Accommodation | Dining | Activities | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget-friendly | Hostels, simple hotels | Taquerias, markets | Free beaches, accessible cenotes | Flexible travelers |
| Balanced comfort | Boutique hotels | Mix of local & restaurants | Occasional excursions | Couples & families |
| Premium & exclusive | Resorts & villas | Gastronomy & experiences | Private activities | Exceptional stays |
The dry season, from November to April, is ideal for stable weather. The more humid months offer fewer crowds and denser vegetation.
Not mandatory. ADO buses and colectivos serve the coast well, but a car offers more freedom for cenotes and remote sites.
Sargassum varies by period. Check locally and favor alternative beaches or freshwater lagoons.
Yes, some open and safe cenotes are suitable for families, provided you are vigilant and use life vests.
A week is a good base, but 10 to 14 days allow you to explore the coast and inland cities without rushing.
Yes, it is a classic combination: they are close and offer complementary atmospheres.
In high season, yes, to avoid queues. In low season, flexibility is greater.
ATMs are convenient. Use pesos to avoid unfavorable rates.
Yes, Ek Balam, Muyil and some lesser-known cenotes offer a calmer experience.
Biodegradable sun protection, water shoes, mosquito repellent, swimsuit and reusable bottle.
Travel early in the morning, favor lesser-known places and choose local providers.
Explore our dedicated pages to go further: Cancún for animation, Playa del Carmen for balance, Tulum for natural charm, and inland cities for culture. We update our content to stay relevant, clear and easy to translate into all languages.