Attractions

Attractions

RUINS  
Tulum  
Distance 40 miles / 65 km South
Opening Hours 7 am - 6 pm (Winter); 8 am - 7 pm (Summer)
Prices $50 MN +
Description Tulum, meaning wall or fence in Maya, is the most picturesque of the local archeological sites as it is located on a ragged cliff overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.  This Pre-Columbian Maya walled city was a major port town most active in 1200 - 1500 AD.  While it is one of the smallest sites, it is also one of the prettiest and can easily be enjoyed together with a stroll on the adjacent long white-sand beach.

Cobá  
Distance 76 miles / 120 km Southwest
Opening Hours 7 am - 6 pm (Winter); 8 am - 7 pm (Summer)
Prices $50 MN +
Description Cobá, meaning ruffled waters in Maya, has one of the most impressive histories of the region with the largest area and tallest structures.  Once thought to have held up to 100,000 inhabitants and covering an area of over 80 km2/30 mi2, Cobá was an thriving city spanning centuries from its height in 500 - 900 AD to its final collapse in the 12th century.  While few of its estimated 6500 structures have been cleared and restored, the site is majestic and peaceful.  Rent a bicycle and stroll through the jungle paths.  Special note: the Great Pyramid and its 120 steps is one of the last climbable ruins in the area and well worth the breathtaking view from atop.
 

Chichén Itzá  
Distance 168 miles / 270 km West
Opening Hours 9 am - 5 pm; Lightshow 7 pm (Fall/Winter), 8 pm (Spring/Summer)
Prices $100 MN +
Description Chichen Itza, meaning at the mouth of the well of Itza, a powerful ethnic lineage of the region, is the second most visited archeological site in Mexico.  It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and recently voted one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.  Its uniqueness lies in that in its heyday from around 550 AD - 800 AD, it acted mainly as a ceremonial center for the Maya civilization, however was subsequently taken over by the Toltec people in 1000 AD. Having been largely cleared and restored over the last century, Chichen Itza is a full-day tour rich with sights and historical information.  Of particular interest are the Spring and Fall Equinox celebrations when thousands gather to witness the natural light and shadow effects along the pyramid of Kukulcan.  Special Note: visitors are no longer permitted to enter nor climb the pyramids as stricter rules are in place to help preserve the site.
 

ACTIVITIES  
Xcaret  
Distance 4 miles / 6 km South
Opening Hours 8:30 am - 9 pm (Winter): 8:30 am - 10 pm (Summer)
Prices $69 USD +
Website www.xcaret.com
Description Xcaret is an ecological theme park mixing culture, ecology and Mexican wildlife.  Amongst its attractions you can find Underground Rivers, a Butterfly Pavilion, a Beach, Inlets and Xcaret’s one of a kind night show “Xcaret Mexico Spectacular”.  It is a fun-filled day with great water and land activities.  Particularly nice for families and groups!

XelHa  
Distance 30 miles / 48 km South
Opening Hours 8:30 am - 6 pm 
Prices $75 USD +
Website www.xelha.com
Description XelHa is a water theme park featuring a wide variety of water activities such as snorkeling, an aquarium, an underground river, and a dolphin show.  While it offer fewer activities and is more economical than Xcaret, it is said to have a simpler more natural beauty. Again, a great day for groups or families!

Xplor  
Distance 4 miles / 6 km South
Opening Hours 9 am - 6 pm
Prices $99 USD +
Website www.xplor.travel
Description Xplor is the latest theme park to open in the area.  Catering to the adventure-seekers, it offers exhilarating tours on underground rafts, swimming through underground rivers, thrilling zip lines, and amphibious vehicles.  A fun and action-packed day, Xplor is a unique way to visit jungle and cenotes.