Top 10 attractions in Cancun, Mexico
Cancún, Mexico is a city full of possibilities. For travelers looking for a mix of both cultural and natural attractions to explore, the vast array of options can make it difficult to narrow down the choices. From ancient Mayan sites to picturesque beaches, here are the top 10 tourist attractions in Cancún that should not be missed.
1. Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is the most famous Mayan ruin in Mexico and one of the New7Wonders of the World. The site is huge, so it’s wise to plan a full day adventure to take in the sights. From the towering pyramid of Kukulcan to the sacred cenote wells, exploring the ruins is a must-do for any traveler.
2. Xcaret Park
Xcaret is a lush eco-park located to the south of Cancún. Here visitors can explore trails, take a dip in natural cenote pools, and observe a variety of wildlife species. During the day travelers can also enjoy shows and presentations that explore the unique culture of the Yucatan Peninsula.
3. Cancún Beach
No visit to Cancún is complete without exploring the city’s beaches. The water is warm and crystal clear, and the stretch of white sand gives the impression of walking on a cloud. From here visitors can also take a boat ride to the famous Isla Mujeres, or visit the ruins of El Rey at nearby Playa del Carmen.
4. Parque Nizuc
This park is a great spot for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. From the top of the observation tower visitors can catch a beautiful view of the Yucatan jungle. The park also contains a beautiful cenote, where visitors can take a dip during the hot summer days.
5. Coba
Located near the world-famous Chichen Itza, this Mayan ruin is not as crowded as its bigger sister. The main attraction here is the massive pyramid that visitors can climb for a bird's eye view of the jungle. There are also several smaller ruins and cenote pools to explore.
6. Isla Contoy
Located just north of Cancún, Isla Contoy is home to a wide array of wildlife, including flamingos, pelicans, and crocodiles. The best way to experience the island is by taking a boat tour, which typically includes access to beaches, mangroves, and the popular Turtle Sanctuary.
7. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
This Unesco World Heritage Site is a vast protected area of tropical forest, mangrove swamps, and wetlands. Tours can be taken via boat, kayak, or off-road vehicles, and visitors can spot an array of wildlife, including jaguars and scarlet macaws.
8. El Rey Archaeological Zone
This smaller Mayan ruin is located near the popular Playa del Carmen beach. While not as large as Chichen Itza or Coba, El Rey is still a fascinating spot for travelers to explore. The main attraction here is the Observatorio—a viewpoint where visitors can observe the surrounding landscape for miles.
9. Xel-Ha
This amazing eco-water park is located on the Caribbean coast near Playa del Carmen. Here visitors can snorkel and swim in a series of connected cenotes and rivers, as well as explore the jungle trails.
10. Shopping in Cancún
For those looking to do some shopping, Cancún has a plethora of options. The malls, markets, and street stalls offer everything from designer clothing and jewelry to handmade pottery and crafts. From international brands to locally-made products, Cancún is a great place to find unique items at great prices.
No matter what type of experience travelers are after, Cancún has plenty of attractions to offer. From ancient Mayan ruins to modern amenities, the city has something for everyone. So why not make your next vacation a trip to this vibrant destination?
