Cancún, Mexico-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Relaxation

  • Morning: Arrive at Cancún International Airport (CUN)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel
  • Where to Stay: Hotel Casa Maya or similar (4-star)
  • Lunch: Try the local cuisine at La Parroquia, a nearby restaurant serving traditional Mexican dishes
  • Afternoon: Relax on Playa Delfines, one of Cancún’s most beautiful beaches
  • Evening: Explore the hotel zone and visit the famous Coco Bongo nightclub for dinner and a show

Day 2: Ancient Mayan Ruins

  • Morning: Visit Chichen Itza ( approx. 1 hour drive), one of Mexico’s most impressive ancient Mayan ruins
  • Guide: Hire a licensed guide to explore the site and provide insight into its history and significance
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch at the site or try local cuisine at El Meson del Rey Sol in nearby Valladolid
  • Afternoon: Explore the town of Piste, known for its charming shops and artisans
  • Evening: Return to Cancún and enjoy dinner at La Veranda, an upscale restaurant with beautiful views

Day 3: Snorkeling and Beach Activities

  • Morning: Take a snorkeling tour to the Mesoamerican Reef (approx. 1 hour drive), the second-largest coral reef in the world
  • Snorkeling Spot: Visit Punta Nizuc, a picturesque spot for spotting tropical fish and colorful coral
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at El Pueblito, a beachside restaurant serving fresh seafood
  • Afternoon: Relax on Playa Tortugas, a tranquil beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing
  • Evening: Try your luck at the casinos in the hotel zone

Day 4: Xcaret Park

  • Morning: Visit Xcaret Park (approx. 30 minutes drive), an eco-archaeological park featuring snorkeling, swimming holes, and cultural exhibits
  • Swim-up Bar: Enjoy a swim-up bar experience at the park’s waterways
  • Lunch: Savor local cuisine at El Puerto, one of the park’s restaurants
  • Afternoon: Explore the park’s many attractions, including a butterfly pavilion and a swimming pool
  • Evening: Return to Cancún and enjoy dinner at La Casona, a historic hacienda turned restaurant

Day 5: Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

  • Morning: Visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve (approx. 1 hour drive), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring mangrove forests, lagoons, and wildlife
  • Boat Tour: Take a guided boat tour to explore the reserve’s waterways and spot exotic birds and marine life
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at El Muelle, a beachside restaurant in the reserve
  • Afternoon: Explore the town of Tulum (approx. 1 hour drive), known for its ancient Mayan ruins and stunning beaches
  • Evening: Return to Cancún and enjoy dinner at La Casonita, an intimate restaurant serving gourmet cuisine

Day 6: Shopping and Local Culture

  • Morning: Visit the local market in the hotel zone, featuring handmade crafts and souvenirs
  • Lunch: Try traditional Mexican street food at El Güero, a popular spot for tacos and other local specialties
  • Afternoon: Explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene by visiting the Museo Maya de Cancún or the Teatro de la Ciudad
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Parroquia, a restaurant serving up local cuisine in an intimate setting

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some last-minute shopping for souvenirs or take a leisurely walk along the beach
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle back to Cancún International Airport (CUN)
  • Departure: Depart Mexico, bringing back memories of your amazing Cancún adventure!

Tips and Essentials

  • Currency: Mexican Pesos (MXN) are the local currency; US dollars are widely accepted but may have poor exchange rates
  • Language: Spanish is the primary language spoken in Cancún; English is also widely spoken in tourist areas
  • Safety: Be mindful of your belongings, especially on crowded beaches and in popular tourist spots
  • Weather: Cancún has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity levels during the summer months (June-August)
  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations for travel to Mexico

Other Things to Know

  • Swim-Up Bars: Many hotels and resorts feature swim-up bars, where you can enjoy cocktails while lounging in the pool
  • Beach Clubs: Some beaches have private beach clubs that offer amenities like lounge chairs, umbrellas, and food service
  • Xcaret Park: Offers a variety of activities, including snorkeling, swimming, and cultural exhibits; be sure to check the park’s schedule for events and closures
  • Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring mangrove forests, lagoons, and wildlife; guided tours are available

Additional Transportation

  • Rental Car: Consider renting a car to explore Cancún and surrounding areas at your own pace
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance
  • Shuttle Services: Many hotels offer shuttle services to popular destinations like Chichen Itza and Xcaret Park

Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodations (7 nights): $1,000 - $2,000 USD per person
  • Transportation: $100 - $300 USD per person (depending on the mode of transportation)
  • Food: $500 - $1,000 USD per person (based on moderate dining habits)
  • Activities and entrance fees: $200 - $400 USD per person
  • Total: $2,800 - $5,700 USD per person