Cancún, Mexico-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time

  • Morning: Arrive at Cancún International Airport (CUN)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel. You can also use the public bus system, but be aware that it may take longer.
  • Hotel: Stay at the Hyatt Zilara Cancun All-Inclusive Resort, which offers luxurious amenities and stunning beach views.
  • Beach Time: Spend the day relaxing on Playa Delfines, one of Cancún’s most beautiful beaches. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun.
  • Lunch: Head to La Veranda, a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and international cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Cancún Museum (Museo Maya de Cancun) to learn about the history and culture of the Mayan civilization.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at La Parroquia, a local favorite serving traditional Mexican dishes.

Day 2: Explore the Hotel Zone

  • Morning: Start the day with breakfast at your hotel’s restaurant.
  • Activity: Take a guided tour of the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera), which includes a visit to the iconic Cancún sign and stunning views from the top of the tower.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at La Casa de Toño, a casual eatery serving tacos and other Mexican street food.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Plaza Caracol shopping mall for some retail therapy or simply to enjoy the air-conditioned comfort.
  • Dinner: Dine at Fajita’s El Limoncito, a popular spot for delicious fajitas and other Tex-Mex favorites.

Day 3: Mayan Ruins

  • Morning: Take a guided tour to Chichen Itza, one of the most famous Mayan archaeological sites (approximately 2 hours drive from Cancún).
  • Activity: Explore the ancient city, including the Pyramid of Kukulkan and the Ball Court.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local eatery near the ruins or bring your own picnic lunch.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Coba Ruins (approximately 1 hour drive from Chichen Itza).
  • Dinner: Head back to Cancún and enjoy dinner at La Casa de las Enchiladas, serving delicious enchiladas and other Mexican specialties.

Day 4: Water Sports

  • Morning: Spend the morning snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Mesoamerica Reef.
  • Activity: Take a catamaran cruise to explore the nearby islands and coral reefs.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch on board the catamaran or at a beachside restaurant.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Xcaret Park, a beautiful nature reserve with beaches, gardens, and waterways. You can also snorkel in the park’s lagoon.
  • Dinner: Dine at La Casa de las Tostadas, serving fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine.

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions you missed earlier in your trip.
  • Transportation: Head back to the airport for your return flight home.
  • Tips:
    • Be sure to try local transportation, such as colectivos (shared taxis) and public buses, to experience the authentic Cancún culture.
    • Don’t forget to haggle when shopping at local markets or from street vendors.
    • Respect the local environment and wildlife by not littering or touching coral reefs.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Cancún has a tropical climate with high temperatures throughout the year. Be sure to pack light, breathable clothing and sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses).
  • Safety: As with any tourist destination, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Health: Don’t drink tap water and eat only from reputable sources.

Other Tips:

  • Tipping: Show appreciation for good service by tipping 10-15% at restaurants and bars.
  • Currency: The Mexican peso is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are also accepted at most tourist establishments.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in the tourism industry.

Additional Activities:

  • Swim with dolphins: Visit the Xcaret Park or take a tour to swim with these intelligent creatures.
  • Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare authentic Mexican dishes at a local culinary school.
  • Visit the nearby islands: Take a ferry or catamaran to explore the beautiful islands and coral reefs of Cancún.