The Yucatán Peninsula is one of the most visited places in Mexico and it covers three states: Quintana Roo, Yucatan and Campeche. It is located in the southeastern part of Mexico separating the Caribbean Sea from the Gulf of Mexico.

Yucatan in Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches, jungle ruins, and charming cities that are influenced by the Maya heritage. It is home to many interesting and unique places to visit.

Coastal destinations like Cancun and Tulum are popular among tourists, but there is a number of important archaeological sites and natural wonders such as Chichén Itzá and cenotes which can’t be missed.

If you are planning your trip and want to pick the best places to visit in Yucatan, you are in the right place. In this post, you’ll find a list of the must-see in Yucatan, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful beaches and picturesque cities.

Keep in mind that Yucatan has a tropical climate, with hot, humid weather year-round. The rainy season runs from June to October and the dry season from November to May and November and December are considered the peak season.

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Best Places to visit in Yucatan

1. Chichen Itza

This ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mexico. It was built by the Mayan people. The early establishment of the city began in 600 AD but the growth and development of Chichen Itza extended over several centuries. It was a major economic centre in Yucatan.

It is home to the iconic Temple of Kukulkan (also known as El Castillo), a pyramid that is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. You can’t climb the pyramid, but you can get close enough to admire its beauty.

El Castillo, the Temple of Kukulkan in Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza can be packed with tourists at midday. To avoid the crowd you should get there early in the morning or before the closing hours. You can get the Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket to Chichen Itza.

The closest city to Chichen Itza is Valladolid, less than an hour's drive away. But it doesn’t matter where you stay, there are tours from Cancun, Riviera Maya, Merida and Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza.

One of the most popular tours is Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote and Valladolid with Lunch from Cancun.

2. Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres means Island of Women. This island was considered sacred to the Mayan goddess Ixchel, the goddess of the moon, happiness, fertility, and medicine.

Without any doubt, Isla Mujeres is one of the best places to visit in Yucatan, located off the coast just a short boat ride away from Cancun. This gorgeous island is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

Isla Mujeres has several beautiful beaches, including Playa Norte, Playa Solferino, and Playa Lancheros. When on the Island make sure to check Playa Norte, which has been listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

The waters around Isla Mujeres are home to a variety of marine life, making it a great destination for snorkelling and diving. One of the best tours is Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour with Lunch. If you visit the island from May to September, you can experience something amazing and swim with the whale sharks.

Isla Mujeres

Although it is more common for travellers to take a day trip from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, it is worth staying a couple of days to get a taste of the island.

Best Places to Stay on Isla Mujeres

Privilege Aluxes Adults Only is located a stone's throw away from the famous Playa Norte, offering a luxury stay. It is perfect for couples.

Nautibeach Beach Front Condos in North Beach is another luxury hotel situated on Playa Norte. The guests can enjoy swimming in the pool while enjoying the ocean view.

Hotel Paradise Suites with an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre is another great hotel on Isla Mujeres. It is located 100 yards from El Cocal Beach.

3. Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy - Depositphotos

Isla Contoy is a small island located northeast of the Yucatan Peninsula and just a few miles off the coast of Cancun. It is a protected National Park and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

It is home to over 150 species of birds, including pelicans, frigatebirds, and flamingos, which is why one of the most popular activities here is bird watching.

Isla Contoy - Depositphotos

Isla Contoy is widely considered one of the best and most unique places in Yucatan. Despite being a true hidden gem, this place has managed to remain off most tourists' radar. It is a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to relax in a beautiful and peaceful setting.

The best way to get to the island is to take the day tour from Cancun or you can visit both Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres in one trip.

4. Merida

The capital of Yucatán, Mérida is a vibrant city with a rich history and cultural heritage. It is also known as “La Ciudad Blanca” which translates to The While City in English.

This city with a rich history, beautiful colonial architecture, and many cultural attractions is one of the best cities to visit in Yucatan if you are keen to learn about the Mayan culture. The famous Chichen Itza is also a short drive away.

Merida sign and the cathedral - Depositphotos

Merida is also famous for its delicious local cuisine, which is influenced by both Maya and Spanish flavours. If you are looking to try some authentic food from Yucatan, Merida is your place. You can try Cochinita Pibil (slow-roasted pork), Poc Chuc (grilled pork), or Papadzules, which are rolled tacos filled with boiled and chopped eggs.

Best Hotels to Stay in Merida

Hampton Inn by Hilton Merida is a 4-star hotel situated 550 yards from Conventions Center Century XXI, offering a fitness centre and free private parking.

Kuka y Naranjo is a lovely boutique hotel located 750 yards from Main Square. It also has a small outdoor swimming pool.

Hacienda Inn is another beautiful hotel with an outdoor swimming pool in Merida. The hotel’s La Noria Restaurant serves traditional Mexican and International-style meals.

Ochenta Y Dos Bed & Breakfast & Spa is a cosy and stylish bed and breakfast in the heart of the city. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared lounge and a bar.

5. Playa del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen is one of the largest cities in Riviera Maya and is located just one hour's drive from Cancun. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Playa Del Carmen is a popular spot for tourists looking to escape the more crowded and touristy areas of Cancún. It has a distinct European influence and unlike Cancun, there are no high buildings here.

Apart from the beautiful beaches, the main attraction here is the main street, known as “Fifth Avenue”. This car-free street is home to many restaurants, bars, and shops.

Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious all-inclusive resorts to more budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses.

Where to Stay in Playa Del Carmen

Paradisus Playa del Carmen All Inclusive is a luxury seafront resort in Playa Del Carmen, offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and Cozumel Island.

Hotel Posada Sian Kaan is a nice 3-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool. It is located 50 yards from the beach and from the popular 5th Avenue.

Meliora by Bunik is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Playa Del Carmen. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool on the rooftop.

Riviera Maya Suites with fully furnished 2 and 3-bedroom apartments is a great place for families or a group of friends. It is surrounded by gardens and located near the beach and 5th Avenue.

6. Cozumel

Located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, you will find Cozumel, a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkelling. If you are not a diver but want to give it a try, you can take the Discover Scuba Diving tour.

It is also known for its beautiful beaches and one of the best things to do in Cozumel is visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. It is a 247-acre ecological park that covers the reefs, beaches and lagoons.

A beautiful beach in Cozumel

In addition to its natural beauty, Cozumel also has a rich history and culture, with a number of interesting sites to visit, such as the Chankanaab National Park and the San Gervasio Mayan ruins.

The best way to explore the island is to rent a jeep or scooter and go around the island. You will find lots of hidden gems and beaches.

If you are looking for a fun and relaxing day on the beach you can get the Mr Sanchos Beach Club All-Inclusive Day Pass.

Some of the popular activities and tours in Cozumel are the 4-Hour Certified Scuba Diving Tour with Two Tanks, the Private Jeep Excursion in Cozumel with Lunch, and the Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel tour.

Scuba Diving in Cozumel

Cozumel is one of the best day trips from Playa Del Carmen, but I highly recommend you stay on the island for a few days, especially if you are a diver.

Best Places to Stay in Cozumel

Melia Cozumel All Inclusive with a spa and three restaurants is one of the best all-inclusive resorts on the island. It offers child care and water sports.

Villas Segovia Hotel Boutique & Suites is located 1.5 miles from Caletita Beach. It is a cosy boutique hotel with an outdoor swimming pool.

Sunscape Sabor Cozumel with two outdoor swimming pools is a great beachfront hotel in Cozumel. It also has on-site equipment for activities such as snorkelling, sailing and scuba diving.

7. Tulum

Undoubtedly, Tulum is one of the best places to visit in Yucatan, known for its picture-perfect white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and bohemian vibe.

Tulum is a beach destination that features luxurious hotels and beach clubs with amenities such as infinity pools and Bali-style swings. It used to be just a quiet fishing village, but now it is a popular destination in Mexico with adventure seekers, beach lovers and backpackers. Some call it “the Bali of Mexico”.

Tulum ruins - Depositphotos

There are so many gorgeous cenotes around Tulum perfect for swimming and diving. Tulum also has a historical side, at the northern end of its beach is framed by the ruins of a pre-Hispanic port city.

Best Places to Stay in Tulum

La Valise Tulum is one of the best hotels in Tulum, offering a unique stay. It is located on the beach and rooms have stunning sea views. It has a heated infinity pool overlooking the jungle on one end and breathtaking views of the Caribbean ocean on the other side.

Encantada Tulum is located on an unspoilt beach between the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and Tulum National Park. All rooms are decorated with local textiles and artwork.

Hotel Boutique TerraNova is one of the best affordable hotels in Tulum, located 3.5 miles from the Tulum Archeological site. The area is popular for cycling.

8. Calavera Cenote

Calavera Cenote is one of the most unique cenotes in Yucatan and is known as the “Temple of Doom”. It is one of the closest cenotes to the town of Tulum, and it can be a perfect day trip from Tulum or even Playa Del Carmen.

Are you wondering what cenotes are? Cenotes are natural sinkholes. They are created when the limestone bedrock collapses and reveals the groundwater. They are usually filled with fresh water and are a great place for swimming and diving.

Calavera means “skull” in Spanish. It gets its name from its shape which resembles a skull with three holes that look like eyes. Jumping through the holes is the only way to get inside the cenote and the depth under the holes is around 5-6 meters (15-20 feet). To get out you have to climb a ladder. Only divers use the ladder to get in and for obvious reasons.

9. Uxmal

 Uxamel - Depositphotos

Uxmal is another ancient Mayan city and one of the most important pre-Columbian archaeological sites in Mexico. It is also one of the best well-preserved Maya sites in the region and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Uxmal was a major ceremonial centre and political capital of the Maya civilisation and is known for its elaborate and well-preserved architecture, including the Pyramid of the Magician, the Nunnery Quadrangle, and the House of the Turtles.

It is believed that Uxmal was founded around AD 700 and reached its peak of power and influence in the Late Classic period (AD 600-900). Today, Uxmal is a major tourist attraction and is open to the public for tours and visits.

It is located only an hour's drive from Merida. You can visit Uxmal by taking an organised tour from Merida, or you can rent a car and drive. There aren’t many hotels, but there are a few and it is better to book them in advance.

Places to Stay in Uxmal

Uxmal Resort Maya is located in a beautiful jungle setting. Offering an outdoor swimming pool. It is only 1.4 miles away from the Uxmal ruins and archaeological sites.

The Lodge At Uxmal is located within Uxmal Archaeological Park, just a few steps from the pyramids and temples. The Lodge at Uxmal provides guests with free access to the attractions of the neighbouring sister property Hacienda Uxmal.

Hacienda Uxmal Plantation & Museum is definitely one of the best hotels to stay in Yucatan. This 5-star historic resort offers an outdoor pool and a working plantation filled with fruit trees and jogging trails. It also has a Cacao and Chocolate Museum on site.

10. Mahahual

Mahahual Sign - Depositphotos

Mahahual is a small beach town on the Caribbean coast of Yucatan. It is located about 62 miles south of Tulum and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs, which make it a perfect place for scuba diving and snorkelling.

Mahahual used to be a sleepy fishing village, but it has become a popular increasingly popular with international tourists. It is still quiet and peaceful compared to other destinations in Yucatan. It is a great place for divers and those who are looking for a laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty.

Besides diving, snorkelling and water activities, birdwatching, cycling, fishing, and exploring the surrounding jungle are some of the popular things to do in Mahahual.

Best Places to Stay in Mahahual

Hotel Jaiba Mahahual - Adults Only with an outdoor swimming pool is one of the adults-only hotels in Yucatan. This 3-star hotel features dry cleaning services and currency exchange for guests.

Punta Me Luxury Suites is located 0.9 miles from Mahahual Beach. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a terrace.

Eco Cabañas Bluekay is located right on the beach and guests have access to a private beach. The location is great for snorkelling.

11. Muyil

Muyil was one of the earliest settlements on the Caribbean Coast and it is a hidden gem in Mexico, located just a 20-minute drive from Tulum. It is believed to have been founded in the Late Classic period (600-900 AD) and was an important regional centre for trade and political power.

Muyil was a densely populated settlement during the pre-Hispanic era. It remained a settlement until the Spanish invasion in the 16th Century when people either fled out of fear or were killed from diseases spread by the Spanish.

The site contains several well-preserved structures, including a number of pyramids, palaces, and plazas, as well as a network of canals and reservoirs that were used for agriculture and water management.

Muyil Ruins 

Since the Muyil Ruins are off the beaten path and attract only a few visitors, you can get close to the centuries-old structures.

Muyil is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings and it has access to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO Heritage Site and the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean. It is home to vast biodiversity, especially bird, reptile and marine species.

To get the most out of your visit to Muyil, consider combining it with a tour of Sian Ka'an. Some tour companies offer guided tours that include both Muyil and Sian Ka'an. One of the most popular tours with a high rating is Sian Ka'an and Muyil Archaeological Site Tour from Tulum.

12. Coba ruins

Coba Runis

Although they may not be as popular as Chichen Itza, the Coba Mayan ruins are no less impressive. In fact, Coba seems more natural and since it is also not as curated as other Maya ruins sites, you can feel the history there.

Coba archaeological site has a number of pyramids, temples, and other structures. The most famous of these is the Nohoch Mul pyramid, which stands over 42 meters (138 feet) tall. It is the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula and the second tallest Mayan pyramid in the world.

Coba is also known for its extensive network of raised stone causeways which connected the city to other Maya sites in the region.

If you are in Valladolid or Tulum, you can take a guided day tour to Coba and also go for a swim in one of the nearby cenotes.

13. Valladolid

Valladolid centre- Depositphotos

Valladolid is a small and charming city in the heart of Yucatan, located about halfway between Merida, and Cancun on the Caribbean coast. It is still off the beaten path and doesn’t get as crowded as other popular places in Yucatan.

Valladolid is known for its colonial-style architecture and its Mayan cultural influences. It is one of the best places in Mexico to experience authentic Mayan culture and history.

Most travellers visit Valladolid on a day trip by taking a tour to Chichen Itza, but I believe that this city deserves more time to be fully appreciated. The city is also home to a number of museums, churches, and other cultural attractions.

It is close to several Mayan ruins, including the Chichén Itzá and Ek Balam, as well as some amazing cenotes. Valladolid can be your base and you can explore the natural and cultural attractions nearby.

You can also read: Best Things to Do in Valladolid

Best Places to Stay in Valladolid

Le Muuch Hotel Boutique is a 4-star boutique hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking and a garden. This gorgeous hotel offers spacious rooms and hammocks for guests to relax.

Mayan Majesty Boutique Hotel with a unique cave pool is one of the best hotels in Valladolid. This luxury hotel has 2 pools, free parking, a restaurant and a bar.

Casa Tia Micha is a colonial-style building in the heart of the city, just a short walk from the San Gervasio church. This 3-star hotel has a small outdoor swimming pool.

Hotel Posada San Juan with an outdoor swimming pool is another lovely hotel in the city. It is located in Valladolid's town centre. The rooms have wooden furniture and feature ceiling fans, a safety deposit box, and a hammock.

14. Cenote Suytun

Cenote Suytun - Depositphotos

Cenote Suytun is probably the most Instagrammable cenote in Mexico and has become a popular place for photography. It is almost completely enclosed and there's a platform you can walk out on to the centre, where there is a circular platform, a single beam of light also shines through and makes your photos Instagram-worthy.

You probably need to queue to take photos, but if you arrive early at the opening time, you can probably skip queuing. Many tourists visit this cenote only to take photos, but you can actually swim there. It is one of the most shallow cenotes in Yucatan.

It is located just a 30-minute drive from Valladolid. It can be visited by taking the Full Day Tour to Visit Chichen Itza, Suytun Cenote and Ik-ki.

15. Bacalar Lagoon

Bacalar Lagoon, my favourite place in Yucatan, is one of the most stunning spots in the Riviera Maya. The lagoon is also called "Laguna de Los Siete Colores", which means Lake of Seven Colours. The crystal clear waters and white sandy bottom of this lagoon cause the watercolour to change into different shades of turquoise and blue.

The popular activities here are taking a 3-hour sightseeing a 3-hour sightseeing boat tour and a sunrise Stand Up Paddle Board tour with breakfast. If you plan to stay in Bacalar, you can rent a kayak for a day and explore the lagoon.

A hidden Beach in Bacalar Laggon

You can swim on the lagoon, but you should be careful not to touch the stromatolites, which are very important to the ecosystem as they release oxygen into the atmosphere and keep the lagoon healthy. They look like rocks, but they are actually living fossils dating back over 3 billion years, which means they were here on earth long before humans and even before dinosaurs.

Best Places to Stay in Bacalar

Blue Palm Bacalar is one of the best places to stay in Bacalar. This gorgeous 4-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool is perfect for couples who are looking for a romantic holiday.

Khaban Bacalar Hotel Boutique is a 4-star beachfront hotel and of the most unique places to stay in Bacalar. It has an amazing outdoor swimming pool, free parking and a garden.

Akalki Hotel y Centro Holistico is located right next to the lagoon in a quiet place. Rooms have direct access to the lagoon, which means that guests can swim in front of their rooms.

16. Izamal, known as “The Yellow City”

Izamel - Depositphotos

Nicknamed the yellow city (la Ciudad Amarilla), Izamal is one of the prettiest places to visit in Yucatan. It is a beautiful and culturally rich town located less than an hour from Merida.

The town is home to several important landmarks, including the Convent of San Antonio de Padua, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid, which is one of the largest Mayan pyramids in the region.

It is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and cultural heritage, and it is a great place to learn about the region's history and culture. Izamal market is also a great place to find traditional handicrafts and other souvenirs. Izamal is also an ideal place to relax and try authentic traditional Yucatec dishes.

You can take the Private Tour of Izamal Magic Town and visit this gorgeous ancient Mayan city or visit Izamal and 3 cenotes in one trip.

Best Places to Stay in Izamal

Hotel Tuul is a 3-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool and a garden. The hotel provides a shuttle service and a bicycle rental service.

Hotel Green River is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Izamal, located within 1.1 miles of Chichihú and 2 miles of Tebec.

Hotel San Miguel Arcangel is a gorgeous Mexican-style hotel is located close to 4 pre-Hispanic pyramids and is just 50 yards from Izamal’s main square. The hotel has its own cafeteria and lovely tropical gardens.

17. El Cuyo

Seagulls at the beach

If you are looking for a place with white sandy beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, El Cuyo is your place. El Cuyo is a small sleepy fishing village and it is a great place to escape the busy touristy places and relax.

El Cuyo is not known (yet) to many international travellers and it is considered one of the best hidden gems in Yucatan. It is perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy the beach, as well as for travellers who enjoy water sports such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

The best way to get to the village is to rent a car and drive, otherwise, you can take a bus from Tizimin or Coloni to El Cuyo, which means from wherever you want to start your journey (could be Cancun, Playa del carmen or Valladolid), you need to change buses at one of these two places.

Best Places to Stay in El Cuyo

Hotel La Casa Cielo is one of the best hotels in the village, offering its guests access to a private beach. It has an outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub and it serves Mexican cuisine, vegetarian, and dairy-free food.

LunArena Boutique Beach Hotel Yucatán Mexico has a unique location between the ocean, lagoon and jungle. All rooms have a kitchen and stunning views over the sea, the lagoon or the jungle.

Beachfront Hacienda del Cuyo Groundfloor is a lovely beachfront self-catering apartment in El Cuyo. This 2-bedroom property is an ideal place for families or a group of friends.

18. Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox - Depositphotos

The picturesque Island of Holbox is another lovely place to visit in the Yucatan Peninsula. It is located in the Gulf of Mexico, about 100 kilometres northwest of Cancun.

The main way to get to the island is by ferry from the mainland town of Chiquila. If you plan to stay on the island, check with your hotel, since some hotels provide free shuttle services.

The island is known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches, as well as its rich wildlife, including flamingos and whale sharks.

There are no cars on the island, so the main modes of transportation are golf carts and bikes. The island is also popular for its eco-tourism, with activities such as birdwatching, fishing, and snorkelling.

Isla Holbox - Depositphotos

Some of the best tours on the island are the Bioluminescence Experience, Horseback Riding in Nature, and Kayaking Tour Through the Mangroves in Isla Holbox.

Best Places to Stay on Holbox Island

Nomade Holbox is one of the most unique places to stay on Holbox Island. This 5-star beachfront hotel offers celebrity treatment with world-class service.

Ensueño Holbox & Beach Club is one of the most beautiful hotels on the island and it is located 900 yards from central Holbox Islan. This 4-star hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a garden.

Villas Caracol is located on the north coast of Holbox Island and has a private beach. Guests can use Villa Caracol’s kayaks to explore the island and sea.

Hotel Para Ti is a 3-star adults-only hotel, located 350 yards from Playa Holbox. It has an outdoor swimming pool with a tropical vibe.

19. Las Coloradas

Las Coloradas is a small town located on the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is famous for its pink lakes. The pink lakes are private property, belonging to the salt factory nearby and it has become a popular tourist attraction in Mexico, thanks to a viral post on Instagram.

The vibrant pink colour of the lakes is due to red-coloured algae, plankton, and brine shrimps that thrive in salty environments. People used to swim in Las Coloradas lakes, but because of their recent popularity, swimming is banned here to protect the algae and wildlife.

Visiting the lakes is not free of charge, international visitors have to pay 300 pesos, and you will have a guide with you during your visit.

Keep in mind that apart from the lakes, there is not much to do around, which is why most travellers visit Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos Reserve on the same trip.

To visit the pink lakes you can take the tour from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Valladolid.

20. Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve

Spotting a corocodile in Rio Lagartos

20 minutes drive from las Colaradas, you will find Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a must-see in Yucatan. It is a protected area and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna such as mangrove forests, wetlands, and a variety of bird species.

The reserve is named after the Rio Lagartos River, which runs through the area and is home to a large population of crocodiles. It is one of the best places in Yucatan for wildlife watching. Here you will find beautiful pink flamingos, pelicans, and a number of shorebirds.

There are several boat tour companies that offer guided tours of the reserve, which can be a great way to see the area and learn about its history and ecosystem.

21. Ik Kil Cenote

Cenote Ik Kil is arguably the most beautiful cenote in Mexico. In order to reach the water, you have to go down 26 meters through a tunnel.

IK Kil Cenote - Depositphotos

What makes this cenote pretty special is the hanging vines. Touching them is forbidden, the reason is to preserve the beauty of the Ik Kil cenote.

Jumping from the top is not allowed, but if you like me love cliff jumping, you can do it from the elevated platform on the side. There are two levels: one is 3 meters and the other one is 6 meters.

Ik Kil Cenote is just a short drive from Chichen Itza and it is one of the most popular cenotes in the area. To avoid the crowds is good to go there early in the morning before all tours arrive.

22. Cancun

Cancun

Cancun is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is indeed very touristy and famous for its beautiful beaches, turquoise blue waters, vibrant nightlife, and luxury all-inclusive resorts.

Probably Cancun is the first place you will land at as an international traveller. It is good to stay here for a few nights or make Cancun your base and take a day trip to the main attractions in Yucatan.

Cancun is also an ideal place for water activities such as snorkelling and scuba diving. Perhaps, one of the most unique underwater attractions here is the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art or MUSA. There are 500 sculptures underwater to encourage coral reef development.

If you are a certified scuba diver, you can book the 2 Tanks Dives Cancun Underwater Museum which includes dock fees, national park fees and all scuba diving gear. Check the prices here.

Don’t worry if you are not a diver, you can take the snorkelling tour to visit the museum.

You can also read: Best Things to Do in Cancun

Best Hotels to Stay in Cancun

Paradisus Cancun All Inclusive is one of the most luxurious hotels to stay in Cancun, offering bright, modern rooms with a private terrace overlooking the Caribbean Sea or Nichupté Lagoon. This 5-star resort has 2 swimming pools, a spa and free parking.

Nizuc Resort & Spa with one of the highest ratings on Booking.com is one of the best places to stay in Cancun. It is located on the secluded Punta Nizuc, offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.

The Royal Sands Resort & Spa is another amazing hotel in central Cancun, located next to Kukulcan Plaza Shopping Centre. All reservations include two complimentary tickets to the Cancun Mayan Museum.