Cancun

Cancun Travel Guide

Get ready to discover Cancun, an enticing destination that combines warm white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and historic sites that have fascinated researchers and vacationers alike for decades.

How to Get to Cancun

The city is serviced by the Cancun International Airport, a major portal that hosts daily flights from numerous international destinations such as Miami, New York, or London, provided by many airlines such as American Airlines, British Airways, among others.

For visitors already in Mexico, it's worthy to note that there are also frequent domestic flights from cities such as Mexico City and Guadalajara. After landing, transport options from the airport include taxis, hotel shuttles, academic and group tours kindergarten.

Top Destinations:

1. Zona Hotelera: This long, beachfront strip is famed for its large resorts, nightclubs, shops, and restaurants. It's the heartbeat of Cancun's tourism and nightlife.
2. Downtown Cancun (El Centro): For those looking to experience the local culture, downtown Cancun offers a plethora of authentic Mexican restaurants, markets, and more laid-back vibes.
3. La Isla Shopping Village: An open-air shopping center set on a series of canals, it provides a variety of high-end retail shops, dining options, and entertainment, including an aquarium.
4. Puerto Morelos: A calm fishing village situated between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, it's known for its National Marine Park, which is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

Hotel Recommendations

Cancun's accommodations range from luxury resorts and all-inclusive hotels in the Zona Hotelera, offering beachfront views and world-class amenities, to budget-friendly hotels and hostels located in downtown Cancun. Many resorts cater to families with children, offering kids' clubs and family-oriented activities, while others are adults-only, focusing on providing a tranquil and luxurious experience. Here are five that you might want to consider:

1. Kempinski Hotel, Cancun: An award-winning beach front resort where luxury embodies in sea view rooms, exquisite cuisine, and a serenading spa.
2. Le Blanc Spa Resort: An adult-only all-inclusive resort certainly creates memorable moments with its cuisine, spa, and luxury suite services.
3. Hyatt Ziva Cancun: Designed for families, the all-inclusive resort offers breathtaking ocean views and multiple pools, inclusive of an adults-only rooftop pool.
4. Nizuc Resort and Spa: This resort provides a serene atmosphere with suites and private pools set within lush tropical gardens, and six world-class restaurants.
5. Temptation Cancun Resort: An adults-only resort known for its unique party atmosphere, sleek accommodations, and top-tier restaurants.

Remember to browse through our curated Cancun hotel collections to find your perfect match.

Top Attractions

Cancun is more than just pristine beaches. It also boasts an array of fascinating attractions:

1. Chichén Itzá: A couple of hours away from Cancun, this ancient Mayan city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its grandeur is encapsulated in El Castillo (The Castle), a massive pyramid at the center of the site.
2. Isla Mujeres: Just a short ferry trip from Cancun, Isla Mujeres tempts with beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and local crafts shopping.
3. Coba: Another archaeological site, Coba lets you climb atop one of the largest ancient Mayan pyramids, the Nohoch Mul.
4. Xcaret Park: This ecological and archaeological theme park presents a unique way to experience Mexican history, culture, and nature.
5. Cancun Underwater Museum: Scuba dive or snorkel to witness over 500 life-size sculptures under the sea.

Cuisine and Nightlife

Mexican cuisine, particularly the local Yucatecan, is a delightful experience. For a taste of this, head to restaurants like La Habichuela and El Fish Fritanga. Many of the top hotels boast exceptional dining options, generally open to non-guests with reservations.

Cancun nightlife is vibrant and energetic with a range of clubs and bars. Coco Bongo and Mandala are particularly popular.

Popular Day Trips

Establish a base in Cancun and engage in exciting day trips:

1. Tulum: Famous for its Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
2. Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site offering jungle tours, bird watching, and snorkeling.
3. Playa Del Carmen: A resort town noted for its palm-lined beaches, coral reefs, and shopping.

Check out Viator for guided tours and experiences in and around Cancun, Mexico.

Shopping in Cancun

Cancun is a shopper's paradise with a mix of luxurious shopping malls like La Isla Shopping Village to traditional markets such as Mercado 28, providing a perfect place for purchasing local handcrafts, jewelry and traditional Mexican products.

Helpful Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: The peak season in Cancun runs from December to April when the weather is ideal. However, for those looking for fewer crowds and lower prices, May to November can be a great time, keeping in mind the potential for rain.
• Getting There: Cancun International Airport is the second-largest airport in Mexico and offers a wide range of international and domestic flights (Cancun Airport).
• Transportation: While buses and taxis are readily available for getting around, renting a car can be a convenient option for those planning to visit nearby attractions outside Cancun.
• Safety and Health: Stay hydrated, use biodegradable sunscreen, and drink bottled water. While Cancun is generally safe for tourists, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Currency and Language: The Mexican Peso is the local currency, but US Dollars are widely accepted. Spanish is the official language, though English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

For More Information on Planning Your Trip to Cancun:

Visit Mexico's Official Tourism Website: Visit Mexico for more travel tips, accommodation options, and up-to-date information on Cancun's attractions and events.

Cancun offers the perfect blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and modern amenities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Whether you're seeking relaxation on sun-drenched beaches, adventure in magical cenotes, or the thrill of exploring ancient Mayan ruins, Cancun promises a vacation filled with excitement and wonder.