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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Cancun to San Ignacio?
The direct drive from Cancun to San Ignacio is 387 mi (622 km), and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 46 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Cancun to San Ignacio, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Akumal, Puerto Morelos, Bacalar, Belize City, and Puerto Aventuras, as well as top places to visit like Croco Cun Zoo and National Reef Park Of Puerto Morelos, or the ever-popular Xoximilco | Mexican Floating Fiesta in Cancun.
The top cities between Cancun and San Ignacio are Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Akumal, Puerto Morelos, Bacalar, Belize City, and Puerto Aventuras. Playa del Carmen is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Cancun and 8 hours from San Ignacio.
Puerto Morelos is a port town located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Positioned between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, it maintains its original fishing village character while offering plenty of offshore dive sites at Puerto Morelos Reef National Park. Coastal beaches serve as breeding grounds for turtles, while inland attractions include freshwater sinkholes like Las Mojarras Cenote and Verde Lucero Cenote.
4% as popular as Playa del Carmen
5 minutes off the main route, 6% of way to San Ignacio
Playa del Carmen is a Mexican coastal town located in Quintana Roo along the Riviera Maya strip of Caribbean shoreline. The area is known for its stunning palm-lined beaches and thriving coral reefs, making it a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can enjoy exploring the Quinta Avenida pedestrian thoroughfare which features an array of shops, restaurants, and nightlife spots ranging from laid-back bars to dance clubs.
Most popular city on this route
3 minutes off the main route, 10% of way to San Ignacio
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Puerto Aventuras is a settlement situated in the Solidaridad Municipality of Quintana Roo, Mexico. With an altitude of 9 meters above sea level, it boasts a population of 5,979 residents according to the most recent census conducted in 2010. It holds the distinction of being the second-largest community within Solidaridad Municipality after Playa del Carmen, which serves as its municipal seat.
7% as popular as Playa del Carmen
5 minutes off the main route, 13% of way to San Ignacio
Akumal is a beach resort located on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico's Riviera Maya. The area boasts beautiful white sands, an abundant coral reef, and warm waters teeming with diverse marine life - particularly turtles. Additionally, visitors can explore nearby destinations such as Half Moon Bay and Yal-ku Lagoon for more swimming and snorkeling opportunities among colorful tropical fish, stingrays, and barracudas.
19% as popular as Playa del Carmen
9 minutes off the main route, 16% of way to San Ignacio
Tulum is a Mexican town located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It boasts well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city and beautiful beaches. The main attraction is El Castillo, a large stone structure situated atop a rocky cliff overlooking the turquoise sea. Additionally, visitors can explore Parque Nacional Tulum, which features mangroves and natural limestone sinkholes called cenotes.
48% as popular as Playa del Carmen
1 minute off the main route, 19% of way to San Ignacio
I'll never travel to San Ignacio without this trip planner again
Bacalar, a serene town in southeastern Mexico near the Belize border, is renowned for its stunning Lake Bacalar, known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors due to its mesmerizing blue and turquoise shades. Visitors can explore the 18th-century Fuerte de San Felipe, now home to a piracy museum showcasing colonial-era artifacts. The colonial San Joaquín Parish Church with its vaulted ceiling is also worth a visit.
3% as popular as Playa del Carmen
2 minutes off the main route, 50% of way to San Ignacio
Belize City, located in the Central American country of Belize, is a bustling port city divided into north and south sides by Haulover Creek. The creek opens into the Caribbean Sea and features the manually operated Swing Bridge built in the 1920s that links both sides. The north side is home to various attractions such as the Museum of Belize which showcases Mayan artifacts and traces the history of the country. Meanwhile, local contemporary art can be found at Image Factory gallery.
2% as popular as Playa del Carmen
1 minute off the main route, 73% of way to San Ignacio
Best stops along Cancun to San Ignacio drive
The top stops along the way from Cancun to San Ignacio (with short detours) are Xcaret Park, Tulum, and Playa Akumal. Other popular stops include Quinta Avenida, Zona arqueológica de Coba, and Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
The Xoximilco theme park is a Mexican culture and food themed amusement park located in the Mayan jungle. Visitors can enjoy a floating party on trajineras through the park's various attractions, including games and music. The food at the theme park is exquisite, and includes traditional Mexican dishes as well as international favorites.
Such a phenomenal experience! The boat host has you try so many fun activities, and it's great that they feed you too. The performances by the bands and mariachi's you pass by are 10/10. It's one of my favorite things to do in cancun. Also, I'd bring mosquito spray if you're going at night!
Adriana Perrusquia — Google review
If you visit Cancun and enjoy tequila and boat rides, you cannot miss this. Although a bit expensive, you will have a really good time. There are 3 food courses: appetizers, hot meal, and desserts from different parts of Mexico. This experience is perfect for families, couples and friends. You will get to meet other tourists; and since this experience is 3 hours long, they provide the opportunity to get off the boat to utilize restrooms and purchase souvenirs while listening to live music.
Mario Davila — Google review
Had a WONDERFUL time. The air-conditioned bus picked us up promptly from our hotel lobby and got us to the park in no time. Hector and Moises, our tajinera guide and "driver," made the night a fun and memorable one. Would recommend visiting if you're in the area and have an evening free. The experience is geared more toward adults, but the kids are welcome. We had our five year old with us, and it was a bit much for her. There is plenty of alcohol on board, and you're given a bit of several different foods to try; small portions. Thanks to Hector for making a call in advance for a special meal for our daughter as she wouldn't have eaten the food provided. The bus was ready for us at the end of the night and drove us back to our hotel.
Pedro Lopez — Google review
I’m not usually one for social drinking settings but something about these boats makes me just feel good. I have no complaints! Facilities were clean and pristine, staff were kind and attentive to all needs, the experience was simply perfect. Well…I would have liked more cheese on the share tray! It was just too delicious!
Mitch Renshaw — Google review
I highly recommend this tour. It is so fun. Staff is so amazing. I want to say it's not so much for kids because of the drinking. I took my 2 little kids and they had fun but were telling me people were acting crazy lol. I gave it a 4 star because the food was cold and to me for what you pay you should get hot food not little samples. FYI eat before you go. Other then that it's such a great experience. I would definetly go back.
Jennifer Martinez — Google review
We had blast during this fiesta. Food was ok and drinks were light but this was absolutely worth it for the lively Mexican traditional experience. We found the photo package to be expensive esp. because you can take pictures on your own. Also, be sure to tip the staff who take you on the boat as they do really spend quite a lot of time and energy to keep the vibe going.
Samar Acharya — Google review
I will start by saying we all had a great time at Xixomilco! I wanted a good cultural experience for my boys, ages 15 and 9. This is their first time in Mexico and this was a great fit for that. Just a couple of things that would have changed this from a 3 star to a 5 star experience.
First, we are native English speakers and one of the things I looked for in reviews were was this appropriate for mainly English speakers. I realize we are guests here and so not every activity is a good fit for us. Based on the reviews I was under the impression that we would be put on a English or a Spanish boat. We were placed on a boat with 3 other native English speakers. Our host did an amazing job trying to be bilingual with every thing but it was very hard to do and sometimes we just kind of got left out at our end of the boat. Everyone from our pilot, to the host along with all of the passengers were fantastic. We just got a little lost sometimes trying to figure things out.
The only other thing that I felt was a downfall, in my situation is the pricing for minors. I thought my ticket was priced very fair for the extras that come with being an adult. I did think that for the kids it's was a little expensive. Couples or all adults, well worth the price!
For the record my kids both gave this 5 stars. Even though they were the only kids on the boat they loved it!
Carlos Guzman — Google review
Only wish they had alcohol! Everything was great. The staff is so friendly, the amenities were new and bathrooms were SO clean.
Fun stuff to do, zip line, rope course, kayaking, Water rafting, large water park area for kids with tons of lifeguards. The buffet was also so yummy… it’s outdoors so I did get stung by a bee 🙃
Gabitha JELLY — Google review
The park is gorgeous! We went to the Xoximilco dinner party and we had a spectacular experience. I would like to thank Alejandro in the Maria Bonita boat. He went above and beyond helping us and entertaining us with good humor and creativity. 1000/10.
Carolina Romero — Google review
Booked this for my birthday dinner, it was indeed a fiesta. Our host Luis made sure everyone was having a good time and plenty to drink. My mom said this was the most fun she’s ever had, ever… and we had just gone skydiving that afternoon. It was a great time. Recommend getting some bug spray, they do sell some in one of the gift shops but it’s super greasy. Food was good, got to try different things and Luis explained what everything was. Definitely recommend trying it out for a great Mexican fiesta and hospitality experience.
Linda Vang — Google review
Quite the party!!! The mole (all food really) was amazing. Chef's kiss. Felipe and the captain were attentive, entertaining, and great dancers! Absolutely recommend to any party animals and families looking to dance down the river. Tequila galore!
Stephanie Gerardo — Google review
How fun, best to enjoy with friends. This was a different experience, the guide and captain make of the trip a fun journey. They make everyone introduce and each person has to pick a challenge: Dance, yell the Mexican scream or have a shot… there are several stops to enjoy music from different regions and they serve food which to me was not great but good enough to have something to eat during the almost 4 hrs journey. in my opinion not for kids cause at some point people may get drunk and use harsh language but up to you. it is very fun and an experience worth of doing at least once
Carla Rodriguez — Google review
We had a great night. Highly recommend! The food was really good and there were plenty of tequila drinking games! There are a lot of mosquitoes but on the boat there's a mosquito spray free to use for anyone
Christina K — Google review
Fun experience, but we were the only ones on our boat who didn't speak fluent Spanish, so we felt a little out of place. The food was pretty good. The drinks flowed freely, and the bands were very lively. All in all, it was a pretty good night out.
Liv — Google review
We felt a little out of place due to being the only English speakers on the boat, but it was a great experience. The music was festive, the food was good (we didn't try the crickets/grasshoppers), and the games were fun. We didn't know any of the songs, so we didn't really get to play the games, but we watched and cheered everyone on. Not a fan of the desserts tray but everything else was good.
J Smiles — Google review
Great experience! The ambience was great!the workers were polite, nice and helpful. Great variety of LIVE Mexican music floating on gondolas along the ride, beautiful accurate cultural attire. Typical food sampling was interesting. The dessert sampling plate was perfect. Unlimited drinks was a plus. Very much recomended
Jose Mendoza Soto — Google review
Hands down. It is a fun activity if you like to drink alcohol. Giving 3.5 stars as the food was terrible and cleanliness was not well taken care of.
I wish, they could seated us with some English speaking folks(we were in a boat with Spanish speaking folks) due to that reason MC was speaking in Spanish most of the time and my husband and I was somewhat lost.
sakshi sharma — Google review
It was the highlight of our trip!!!
Thoroughly enjoyed interacting with our host Dario and other guests. His attitude and energy were everything ✨️ 🙌🏾 😌
Loved the "pass the bottle" game.
Loved the live bands!! The entrance location is unbelievably scerenic. We couldn't help but take photo after photo.
While the food was delicious, we couldn't finish it in time because we were drinking the tequila. Wish we could take the food that we already paid for, but it was discarded after we got off the boat.
It was replaced for free, but again, we couldn't eat it due to drinking. I hadn't eaten much before, so I had saved my appetite for the fiesta boat. Really wish we could have taken our plates to go to try all the delicious food, that's my only complaint. We left hungry and had to spend more money to eat after paying over $300 for 3 people.
Overall, we still had an amazing time, and I highly recommend it as Dario was the best, most humorous host. Just be sure to eat before you start heavily drinking.
9.5/10 experience
Chelsey
Dee Jones — Google review
Yes please!!! I will do this every time I go to cancun. This is a great experience. Our boat host was amazing, the games were fun! The tequila never ended, the shows were perfect. Went with my wife and cousins and we all would do it again.
chris preuss — Google review
The music, the hosts, the park it's amazing. It's a whole vibe for any celebration! The music is amazing and it's live through all the ride which makes it even more fun seeing the mariachis. Then the park has an amazing structure and the boats are decorated with amazing name and a lot of space. The only thing I would say is that the food is not great, it need a little more quality but that would be the only thing. The activities you do in the boat depending on your host are super fun! My experience was amazig I recommend Anthony, he made our night one of the bests.
Camila Arguedas — Google review
Great experience! Absolutely beautiful 😍
My family and I went there in 2022 .Lots of music ,musicians are playing music on separate boats(trajineras ) , we stoped at each boat to listen and dance.
They give you a food sampler and a candy sampler, while explaining what each thing you’re consuming. All you can drink both alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages (although we didn't drink much alcohol since we had kids ). We got up and danced , had a great host! He was Funny same as the guy driving the boat. Played a game I sadly lost 😪Can’t upload any videos idk why but I definitely recommend and we had a whole school of kids.
Awesome experience, this family of 15 will definitely return.
Alex Lara — Google review
4.8
(10279)
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4.5
(2809)
Chetumal Km. 282, Juárez, 77580 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., Mexico
Interactive zoo allowing visitors to feed & touch snakes, monkeys, parrots, crocs & other animals.
This place is amazing. Our guide was very knowledgeable and did a great job of teaching us through this experience. I loved holding the snake and petting the Mexican dogs. The atmosphere is so calming. Seeing and learning about all the different animals was a great treat as part of our vacation. I highly recommend going and experiencing it for yourself.
Joshua Peters — Google review
This place is unique. The guide was very knowledgeable and loved the animals. She was skilled and personable. The animals were interesting and some were rescues. The crocodiles made up most of the residents, and they were used to humans. We walked through one of their habitats and they couldn’t care less, lol! There were a variety of snakes and some deer, as well as cute hairless pups. I don’t like hairless animals but these grew on me in minutes. They seemed so intelligent and playful. They love their treats. I came here with my teen boys and they were captivated and not bored, which says a lot. Loved everything about this place, thank you.
Corina Lelutiu — Google review
Our visit didn’t start off well, bc the lady at check in/reception was not very helpful and borderline rude. Thankfully, after a 20 minutes wait, we got a wonderful guide (Sandra) who was very friendly, knowledgeable and patient with the kids, answering all their questions. The animal experience is fantastic for kids, they get to feed and hold some of the animals. The park has very cool animals that are, for the most part, native to Mexico/Latin America. The kids and parents had a lot of fun and the experience is worth the somewhat pricey tickets.
Samy S. — Google review
Surprisingly enjoyable. It’s a small zoo but the 1 hour guided makes it a very fun and educational experience especially for the kids. They get to pet a baby crocodile and hold a snake. It’s definitely worth a visit if you have time to spare.
Kwon — Google review
I had an awesome experience learning about all the different animals living at the zoo. Having a guide throughout my visit made it much more informative than it would've been if I had toured the zoo alone. It's also great to see that so many of these animals are rescues from the exotic pet trade and being given much better lives than they would've had in someone's home. Learning about these amazing creatures raises awareness about the need to conserve them and their habitats, so Croco Cun Zoo is doing their part in making the world a better place. Thanks so much for an amazing experience — I look forward to visiting again next time I'm in Cancun!
Tyler Bevington — Google review
I had a good time here, and I learned a lot. It was so much fun walking next to crocodiles, touching them also, it was a new experience. It's a nice and small zoo and they speak Spanish and English. They have a restaurant there if you want to eat before or after, gift shop to buy souvenirs. The tour is about an hour, and they separate it with English and Spanish to make the tour go a little faster. They have discounts if you are a Mexican resident, so make sure to ask if you are a resident. There's parking available if you decide to drive. The staff are very friendly and helpful with any questions.
Damion Newell — Google review
Man this place was cool. My wife and I enjoyed all the animals and the guided tour. While waiting wild monkeys greeted us in the tree tops. They are not on exhibit. They are wild and free. If you hear noises in the tree top look up quickly they are fast! A mom and baby capuchin monkey passed us too quickly to photograph. We got to interact with many of the animals, that included snakes and crocodiles! You even get to go into a crocodile/alligator habitat! The tour guide Sandra was very knowledgeable of all the animals. She taught us a lot about the local fauna and flora. They take very good care of the animals here. The enclosures were pretty large and all the animals all looked happy and healthy. It is well worth a visit! All the staff were very friendly and looked happy.
Christopher Kaczka — Google review
A small but very nice zoo. It is only possible to visit the zoo with a tour guide (English or Spanish). That's why it is relatively expensive (about 30 euros), but well worth it. Our tour guide, Sandra, was very nice and told a lot about the animals. The total tour takes about 45 minutes and you walk less than 1 km in total. Very nice was the fact that you could actually hold a snake, a parrot on a stick and touch a baby crocodile. The only downside is that in my opinion some of the animals have a rather limited living space. We visited the place on a Tuesday morning and it was not crowded at all
Remco Bitter — Google review
We were here on Friday. 10 min drive from where we were staying. Great experience. My husband, 4.5 year old and I enjoyed it. The wait for a tour was 40 mins and we were told 10 mins so that was annoying but other than that everything was great. They do separate tours in English and Spanish.
Our tour guide Sandra was amazing. She is very knowledgeable about the animals.
Thank you. We would love to visit again :)
Paramveer Cheema — Google review
If you have kids or not, you must visit this little sanctuary! It is one on one attention with very knowledgeable guide. The place is small, but very clean and nice.
My kids (1,6,10 and 13 years old) enjoyed it very much.
Food at the cafe is good and not too expensive.
We loved our experience here!!!
Liliana Mejia — Google review
Great place to visit with the family. Andrea was our marine biologist guide who was knowledgeable about each creature. She was friendly and funny and answered our many questions. The tour is an hour long. We liked the fact the creatures at the zoo were either rescued animals,donated, or brought in by the police from people having exotic animals as pets. Highly recommend this place if you enjoy learning about animals.
Estefany Cerda — Google review
Very well maintained crocodile themed zoo about 20 min outside the hotel zone. Knowledgeable staff take you on a walking tour of about 20 different enclosurers of mostly crocs, but some snakes, wild cats, lizards and other local wildlife. Tickets include touching a crocodile and holding a snake. You can pay to feed some of the animals. The whole tour took about an hour and a half. There is a gift shop at the end with stuffies and handicrafts. Bottom line, it's worth doing and worth a trip especially for youngsters. A few tips:
1. Its outdoor and can get pretty hot. Dress accordingly.
2. There is an attached cafe that makes surprisingly good sandwiches
3. They do accept credit cards
4. Taxis can be a bit of a wait, plan accordingly
5. The tour has about a dozen people on it.
Navin Rai — Google review
Had an amazing time at this zoo. The staff was very welcoming and professional and our guide was the best guide we’ve ever had in any zoo. She was very animated, patient and funny and we got to see every animal and our guide really took her time explaining and providing information on each animal. Definitely worth visiting with your kids or even without. I highly recommend!!
Tama Rahim — Google review
This place was great, from the person that greets you as you walk in to the guide to the little cafe they have attached to it. Everyone was beyond friendly and helpful. It was an informative and amazing experience. And when the tour is over don't hesitate to stop in the cafe for food and drinks.
Tom — Google review
My family and I loved the zoo. It is small but I don’t think it’s too expensive we got (Mexican price) my kids were feee. Keep in mind this zoo was about to close when the pandemic happened. People have to understand they charge to be able to afford the food for the animals and keep it open. I will go back next time I visit.
Catherine valdez — Google review
Unique zoo to see and feed animals native to Mexico. You can touch a crocodile and a snake and feed Aztec dogs (very special!), turtles and deer.
Only issue is it's expensive and after the one hour tour it's done and you can't just hang out and look at the animals. There is a small playground and a cafeteria.
The tour guide spoke English.
Orly Liba — Google review
Over priced. 40 pesos would be a value, not $40 US dollars
(each person over 13). The guide was very knowledgeable and nice. However it seems like every 3rd animal exhibit was a crocodile exhibit, with the crocodiles progressively getting larger/older as you move through the zoo. Another exhibit i had to laugh at was the Mexican dogs. They actually have 3-4 domesticated friendly dogs as an exhibit. The dogs are there as direct result from the Disney movie Coco that featured the Mexican hairless breed….. never the less the kids did love the dogs. Can you imagine going to the zoo in the United States and seeing an exhibit of Golden Retrievers? The spider monkey exhibit was underwhelming but they are technically wild as they can come and go from the zoo as they please, i think we saw 3 spider monkeys. If you want to see spider monkeys for free our shuttle driver on the way to the airport stopped at the 7/11 just north of the zoo and it was full of spider monkeys, much better than the zoo and didn’t cost a penny , must of saw 10 monkeys there.
Anyways, neat place but way overpriced unless you’ve got extra money to blow and love crocodiles! Oh almost forgot, they have white tail deer too, lol.
Craig Madill — Google review
We had a lot of fun! The animals looked taken care of, so no animal abuse (For those people) our guide was friendly and he explained everything. My girlfriend Touch a lot of animals. SHE WAS AMAZED!
Diego Velez — Google review
This was a very educational and amazing tour. The park is small and intimate but if you want to see crocs and learn about the wildlife in Mexico this is the place. Very interactive.
chris preuss — Google review
Amazing place to see and touch animals. The tour guide was amazing. They truely care about the animals. It is a conservation first and a zoo second.
Drey P — Google review
4.6
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4.5
(2166)
Carr. Cancún - Tulum Km 31, 77580 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., Mexico
This is a beautiful park. They have a lot of activities and different places to buy souvenirs, food, and snacks. The beach is beautiful and clean. There is a playground for the kids. They do a great job of encouraging social distance and sanitization of hands.
Joshua Schaffer — Google review
The sea region is amazing!
吴锐恒(Ruiheng Edbalt Wu) — Google review
The best one in all Quintana Roo. You can see the reef very near you ! Gorgeous nature 😍
Yadira Ramos Oceguera — Google review
Beautiful reef and a ton of fish. Had one of the best snorkeling experience here.
Joi Pu — Google review
Follow the guide for snorkelling, wonderful experience
Hongbo Zeng — Google review
Amazing sights
Cody Thomas — Google review
(Translated by Google) Very nice, quiet beach and you can snorkel for 2 hours for 1200 private boat or 200.00 pp.
(Original)
Playa muy bonita, tranquila y puedes hacer snorkel 2horas por 1200 lancha privada o 200.00 pp.
Beth Alvarez — Google review
(Translated by Google) Do not buy at the Mayan crafts store that is located on this street, they take advantage of tourists. They are the ones who make designs on tree trunks.
(Original)
No compren en la tienda artesanía maya que está localizado por esta calle se aprovechan de los turistas. Son los que asen diseños en los troncos de árboles.
Monica F — Google review
(Translated by Google) Beautiful snorkeling experience with our guides Roberto and Tobi del Cayuse.
(Original)
Bellissima esperienza di snorkeling con le nostre guide Roberto e Tobi del Cayuse.
Simone Kaufmann — Google review
4.6
(28)
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4.5
(1555)
Rafael E. Melgar 1, 77580 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., Mexico
La Quinta Avenida is a popular shopping street in Playa del Carmen. There are many local handcrafts, souvenirs, and luxury goods from Mexican and international brands available only a block away from the resort.
San Gervasio Mayan Ruins is an ancient complex located in a wildlife refuge that was a significant pilgrimage site for Maya women to worship the goddess of fertility, Ixchel. The site dates back 1,500 years to the early-Classic period and consists of various structures that are thought to have been part of Ixchel's sanctuary. It was mandatory for all Mayan women to visit the site once in their lifetime and make an offering.
Was there about 10 years ago and had to go back. Largest group of Maya ruins on Cozumel. There are approximately a dozen structures and Maya roads that connect to the rest of the island. Entrance was $13 per person and I highly recommend having a tour guide! Miguel was our guide and was fantastic! He had many pictorials including maps and his knowledge was impressive. Plan on an hour and a half to two hours. Don't forget the sunscreen and bug repellent as you'll be in the middle of the Cozumel jungle. There are multiple gift shops at the entrance to purchase drinks, snacks, and gifts.
Silver Castaneda — Google review
Fantastic and interesting place. Highly recommend you visit and do get a guide. Well worth the $ 20 for a guide. Go in the morning when it's not hot nor humid. Take some bug spray for your clothes and bring water. You will pay twice to enter , but it still adds up to being only ten USA dollars total.
Bob Clark — Google review
Overall, this was a good tour. We chose this because we had a toddler and stroller with us. This was a fairly straightforward site. It took about 45 minutes to go through, and we had the option to hire a guide or walk the site alone. We hired the guide, and it was pretty insightful.
Frances Gummere — Google review
The Mayan ruins were incredible. Though not the largest, they were well preserved. The guide tested our knowledge of the culture and was surprised. He was easy to understand and pointed out and explained the site fully.
The entry onto the site was confusing, two separate fees, but well worth the money spent, as was the guide. Refreshments and souvenirs available for sale.
Local wildlife wander through the site, unperturbed by visitors.
Tim & Kate — Google review
What a cool spot! You do have to pay twice to get in, but it’s not much, and the money goes towards maintaining the place. We didn’t get a guide as we wanted to go our own pace, but they are there if you’d like them. The ruins have information plaques so you can read about the history of them. The pathways are nicely maintained and there is so much wildlife around. Tons of different flowers blooming, and so many iguanas and lizards! We even saw bright blue butterflies flying around. There are so many ruins and you walk through parts of the forest/jungle to get to them. It was a hot day, but really nice in the shade of the trees.
The shops are pretty nice too, with reasonable prices. Shoutout to Enrique, one of the shop owners, who gave me a cool pamphlet about the Mayan zodiacs and showed me which was mine (it was my birthday that day as well).
Victoria Vandenberghe — Google review
Short, quick tour stop on a cruise excursion. Would have loved more time to hear about all the buildings, culture and details of this Mayan site. Some really great views of what this once great city must have been like as well as very interesting insights into the Mayan society. Very worth spending some time with a guide here if you are interested in history, archeology or Mayan culture.
Angela Eborg — Google review
I was expecting Mayan pyramids similar to what you can find outside Playa del Carmen. These are much more modest, and most of the ruins date from between 1200 and 1600 AD. Nevertheless, this staff were extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Also, the shop owners were super helpful, especially when I was looking for a black men’s T-shirt with the Mayan god, Ix Chel on it.
I echo the comments from other reviewers – bring mosquito spray! I was 100 yards down one shady path and my calves were covered in mosquitoes!
Otherwise, worth the visit. I visited on a scooter and the long drive was really pleasurable.
Rob Perica — Google review
Very good information from our Mayan decendant tour guide. It was a beautiful day to hike along the paths and walk the 500m to fertility temple too. Nice archeological park
Krista Morio — Google review
I liked it. We went with a tour group from the Carnival cruise Line. Several people went to the Mian ruins. Then lunch, then the beach snorkeling. I enjoyed listening to the tour guide discuss the history of the ruins. I recommend going. Two thumbs up.
Toby Trevett — Google review
This was part of a shore excursion. It was interesting and our tour guide was well educated about the Mayan ruins. Worth a visit if you make it to cozumel. LOTS of iguanas in all different sizes all over the place!
Jim Savage — Google review
Wow this place was amazing. A tour guide took us through and explained the history of the Mayans that were there. He was really nice and he will make you laugh too. Also we were there with tripping cool excursions. I strongly recommend them if you go on a cruise. They are also very funny and informative.
Debra Ovalle — Google review
I have been to several other of the big Mayan ruins, so I was not too sure what to expect here. Was I pleseantly surprised with this site. The importance to the Mayan beliefs of fertility and being born are clear here. In fact life and birth are so sacred here that it was never a site of human sacrifices as many of the other Mayan sites were. I recommend paying the $20 for your group to get a guided tour and then exploring on your own.
Mike St John — Google review
We went here on a tour as apart of our cruise . And we enjoyed here. We even had an incident with our youngest child and the staff and persons were so helpful. But it really showed a piece of history and how far our civilization has come.
Drink plenty water and keep hydrated.
Kareem Minnis — Google review
Last winter we went here and stopped on our bike ride around the island and it was even better than expected! A lot more to see and walk around and explore than I had imagined. So many awesome structures. I wish I had read up on it a bit more beforehand or even done a guided tour but that's usually not my jam. Would've been worth it had we started our bike ride earlier. If I went for a second visit I'd do the guided tour. Overall a great spot to check out.
John Vasholz — Google review
Extremely hot, bring a fan, water. Mosquito repellent is a MOST.
It is your genuine archeologic area! Beautiful area in the middle of a jungle. You are in contact with nature!!! It was a ceremonial site. Super peaceful and not too much traffic. Able to enjoy the place.
Dona S — Google review
Did a self guided tour of the ruins. It was incredibly hot and humid even in January so be sure to dress accordingly. The ground is rocky so wear good shoes! Seeing the ruins was a great experience. It had been many years since I had been to Mayan ruins on the mainland. These are smaller than some but still historically significant and worth experiencing.
Ivy — Google review
This was a fantastic site if you're into ecotourism or history. We visited this site on a small group excursion on Celebrity. The site was clean and well-maintained and our tour guide (Ared with Wild Tours) was fantastic and knowledgeable about the history of the site. Not only will you see a fantastic historical site, but also local wildlife to include many gray iguanas. 10/10 do recommend.
Jessica Winiarczyk — Google review
We visited the Ruins on January 1,2024. Went to the Ruins as an excursion from a cruise ship. Guide was super informed about the ruins and the Mayan culture. Very interesting place to visit, would go again! Make sure you look close and you might spot an iguana…..or 10!!
Kristin Lee — Google review
One of the ancient sites used by the Mayans for wedding ceremony and celebrating life. Make sure to opt for the guided tour as you are able to get more information about the site, the buildings, and aspects of the Mayan culture you can't get by reading the plaques.
The site saddly, while impressive, was damaged by a rancher who used dynamite at points to break down parts of the site for use elsewhere.
Luckily, the site still has lots of runs that still exist and can give you a glimpse into this ancient culture.
Adam Cook — Google review
Very interesting archeological site, pretty easy to get to and walk around. Probably spent around 1hr here.
Lots of beautiful birds and butterflies flying around.
You need cash for the entrance fee. dollars is ok.
Plenty of safe parking. Toilets and stores.
Mr.Worldwide — Google review
We have been to many of the ruins but this one has such energy that you will not find any where else. Had an amazing guide. We usually scuba dive in Cozumel but I think we will come back here and spend more time.
Reginald Vickers — Google review
Definitely an experience of a lifetime. Was only disappointed that we were with a group excursion from the cruise. From what I found out afterwards there was so much more to see that I would have loved to see. It was so fascinating to see and touch history. I will remember this forever.
Xplor is an adventure park with zip-lining, amphibious vehicles, rafting, and underground rivers. It's one of the most visited theme parks in the world and is known for its exciting activities for adrenaline junkies. Admission includes transportation to and from the park, a meal, and unlimited drinks.
This place is absolutely amazing. We did the night time activity and it’s was totally worth the $105 dollars we spent. Parking was easy to find. Be prepared to walk and also bring a change of clothes. Water shoes are a must. We went during the week and it wasn’t too crowded. We got to do the rides several times. There is no bar there for obvious reasons but it was an amazing time. I can’t wait to go back.
Joshua Wiley — Google review
This place is so much fun. Safe, clean, all inclusive environment. Awesome buffet menu & drink (juices) included. We want during the day and spend aprox 5 hours. Zip line was my favorite along with the semi underwater cave system.
Sem Brignoli — Google review
This place was beyond what I could have imagined. The exciting outdoor water activities, the zip-lining, and even the food was amazingly delicious. I had a wonderful time here and it was my first time. I advise everyone to purchase the bracelet for pictures and also the buffet. Staff was very friendly and professional. Zip-lining staff was on their A-game from the beginning, not some, ALL OF THEM. They were courteous, professional and they never stressed when the people piled up. I was really astonished by how well this theme park ran. The amount of memories I created here will be one I can remember forever.
Anthony Alvarez — Google review
Highly Recommended!! My visit lasted around 5 hours, and I must say it was time well spent. There's ample parking, and getting tickets was a breeze. Food and drinks were included in the price of the ticket, which is a fantastic bonus. Additionally, lockers are available to store your items, making it convenient and worry-free.
One piece of advice: make sure to walk with your water shoes!! If you forget them, don't worry; some are available for purchase onsite.
Overall, it was an amazing experience!
Kyla — Google review
Awesome park. The wait was minimal at two of the zip lines points. Time went by so fast because you're always moving, and before we knew it, it was lunchtime. The restaurant had a large selection of food and the best part, it was warm and delicious. And there are no words for the wait staff, I can only think of exceptional, and I still think it's not enough to describe these hard attentive workers. The same is said for the rest of the staff. The staff at the rides make you feel safe, always ensuring safety was carried out and ensuring that one was doing okay.
M Ruiz — Google review
This place is for people who would love to enjoy and explore stalactite caves lit up by beautiful lighting and surrounded by water. Swim, walk or boat in these caves, the experience is wonderful. There are also activities like zip lining, Driving jeeps and water slides. Definitely a must do.
David Leiner — Google review
Xplor is a definite - most do when you are in Cancun! It was absolutely accelerating and full of adrenaline. The food was also really good with a vast of amazing food and choices of a full bar. You do climb a lot to go to each zip line. Overall had the most amazing time.
OLLAM STUDIO — Google review
Visited with friends, had an amazing and fun time. Be aware that is crowded and there are long lines ouside of every activity. Great if you love zip lines and caves!! The underground waters are a must! Crystal clear and cold!! Food is great and they also offer lockers for your staff.
Angela C — Google review
We visited this park at the end of September so we got experience this park to the fullest! There were little to no lines at any of the attractions here, we got to do every attraction at least twice.
The entire park was so beautiful and amazing, I’m truly at a loss of words!
- Buffet here was delicious. So many different items that were so amazing here so I cannot name them all, you just have to check it out and try them
- The entire staff here was very helpful and friendly
- Both zip lining courses were amazing
- The ATV were an amazing experience. There’s two courses here, one of them is definitely way better than the other
- The underwater caves left me at a loss of words. They were so beautiful
- The hammock zip lining was cool. Nothing compared to the actual zip lining
I’ll definitely be coming back to this park!
jeff Reyes — Google review
We spent a wonderful day!! Still in awe how well-managed everything is in the park. The stuff is always helpful, friendly and smiling at you. Whenever you go, you are always surrounded by the rainforest and beautiful scenery. The park is themed around caves and underground exploration. I have never before in my life had a swim or took a raft in the cave. So impressive!
Tips wise:
- bring your own water shoes
- bring your own waterproof phone holder (700$ pesos in the park)
- bring your own towels
- go to the zip lines either the very first thing or the very last. It gets the most crowded around 10:00-10:30 am.
- explore 2 routes with ATVs. The one with the departing station 1 and 2 is way cooler
- try to buy the ticket in advance (at least 48 hours to get the discount)
Underground expedition was a bit underwhelming. You just walk through the cave. If there is a queue, I would recommend doing other activities first like the raft and swimming.
Unfortunately, during our visit TOBOGANXOTE (the water slide) was not open yet:((
Other than that, I would highly recommend spending the day with your family, friends or loved ones there.
Valeriya Kantueva — Google review
Wow! So much fun! We were hooked with the images at the resort of zipping through flames, and surprised to see a theme park built around a cave system. Too awesome! We felt safe, plenty to see and do, food was good, and it was an overall great experience! Unique and I would recommend!
Margaret Kidwell — Google review
Amazing experience. They have lovely activities like driving into jungle, swim in river and walk throw caverns. As a tip book your entrance in advance with 7 or 21 days, you will get 10-15% discount and do it from Xcaret website is the cheapest way and buy swimming shoes before getting there you will need it.
Bogdan Halinga — Google review
This place was sooo fun...it was an amazing experience. I got there just after the park opened and was able to do every experience as well as eat. My favorite experience was the jeep ride but everything else came in second because it was hard to choose. If you do ziplining be prepared for a lot of walking and climbing. The buffet offered a variety of different food and drinks which all were good. You definitely want to have water shoes and if you bring your own sunscreen it has to be biodegradable, they'll check the Ingredients on it and if contains certain things they'll hold it for you (you pick it up when you leave) and give you packets of biodegradable sunscreen to use. They give you a locker to use which is a decent size and the key is on a wristband that can withstand all the activities. I definitely recommend and can't wait to go back and try the night experience!
Shannon M — Google review
A fabulous day for all the family at Xplor. A very well organised place which flows seamlessly from one activity to the next. Very helpful and nice staff, especially Raul in the restaurant who had exceptional customer service.
You will receive locker keys (lockers are small) and helmets. Bring your own towels and sea shoes.
All activities are fabulous, particularly the ATV's and zip lining. Great selection of food In the restaurant too.
Clare Occomore — Google review
Absolutely worthwhile experience! All the activities were fun but I especially liked the zip lining, as you go through many different courses and eventually land to a water area.
I really liked that the had two areas where you can have refreshments and cookies, and the buffet restaurant too. Provided a nice resting area before going with the next activity.
One thing to note, they have restrictions on the sunscreen you can use, so be wary of that as they will take it and hold on to it while you're there.
Eric Dao — Google review
This is one of our favorite places when we come to the riviera maya! They have the best zip line circuit around and all the activities are well worth the admission price! Their buffet is the best we have had at any theme park and is included in the price. The park is very well planned out and i believe everything is posible to do in one day. Pretty soon the will have their next attraction ready to go, its a big slide that includes i believe 4 different slides
Mr Fregoso — Google review
Spending a good day there, lots of activities and quality of the services and food was good. Dont trust the colour sign about the activities, it shows red (busy) but nobody was there or shows green (not busy) many people were there. They tried to manage the time but giving you the not accurate spending time on the line. Better to start from one and follow the rest. If its a busy day you need to full day 9-5PM to be able to finish all activities.
Be sure to have water shoes and comfortable swimsuits.
Hamidreza Khansari — Google review
Visited Xplor whilst on holiday in Cancun, I’d researched it prior to coming and we both knew we wanted to visit.
We arrived through our transfer at 9 and was seen promptly, we were provided helmets & our locker key. Bring your own water shoes and waterproof phone case if you want to take photos. We did but saw they were selling water shoes for over $70 and phone cases for $50.
As the park is go at your own pace we started with the zip lines, they were amazing, absolutely breath taking. My partner and I were able to go on them together too which was so much fun to do together.
We then did the ATVs which were so much fun, the caves are magical.
We then did all of the water activities, the rafts, the swim, and the underground expedition. Absolutely incredible. The swim through the waterfall was beautiful. The only one we didn’t enjoy so much was the rafts, a lot of people in front of us didn’t know how to use them and everyone was getting held up and bumped into.
The lunch was also really good quality. You definitely work up an appetite so that was great, my partner was very happy.
Our transfer didn’t come back until 4.30 but we were done with everything at around 2ish. It’s definitely worth it and we had such a memorable day out
Riya R — Google review
Thrills, Adventure, and Unforgettable Moments at Xplor!
Our day at Xplor was an absolute adrenaline rush, and our group of four had a blast navigating the various activities! From heart-pounding zip lines to off-road amphibious vehicle rides, the park delivered on its promise of excitement.
While paddle rafting proved challenging for me, the other activities more than made up for it. A tip for future visitors: invest in the photo package at the entrance – it's a worry-free way to capture all your action-packed moments. It would be even better if they included the videos in the package rather than selling them as part of a higher tier.
The lunch buffet was a delightful surprise – the food was amazing, and the staff across the park were not only wonderful but also incredibly helpful. We felt safe on every ride, adding to the overall positive experience.
For future adventurers, I recommend starting your day with the exhilarating zip lines in the morning. Tackle all the circuits before moving on to the off-road amphibious vehicles. Opt for an early lunch, preferably before noon, to beat the crowds. Then, spend the remainder of the day enjoying the fantastic water activities.
Xplor can be visit in one day for thrill-seekers, and with a bit of strategic planning, you're in for an unforgettable day of adventure!
Denis Castellanos — Google review
The caves were awesome. The food at the buffet was fresh and very tasty. The hamock zip like was extremely fun, as well as all the other zip lines. The most fun we had was driving the amphibious buggies on two separate trails. It was well worth the money.
Marcos Pereyra — Google review
This place was awesome! We were on a cruise and we did an excursion to this park. The staff was friendly. The rides were fun and even though we were there for a short time everything was amazing. There were some sweet potato square pie bites that were life-changing and I'm sad that I'm never going to get to try those again.
Darius Lott — Google review
This park was so amazing.
It's worth the money. I recommend getting there early to be able to enjoy all the park has to offer.
The food was great.
The ziplines are really fun, I didn't think the were high adrenaline. More like very enjoyable.
My favorite activity I think was the Underground Exploration. It combines different activities like walking swimming in the river, hike, obstacles, the slide was super fun.
I recommed this park 100% next time I will do Xplor fuego.
B — Google review
4.8
(26335)
•
4.5
(18990)
Carretera Chetumal, Puerto Juarez Km 282, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Xcaret Park is an amusement park located in the city of Playa del Carmen, just a few miles from Cancun. It offers attractions such as swimming and cave exploration, as well as a wide variety of animals to see.
Absolutely outstanding experience. From the original booking to the hotel pickup, to orientation, upgrade of our tickets, scheduling the many activities and getting through the day, everything was flawless, well organized. The park was very clean. Food at the buffet was outstanding. All staff was very accommodating and helpful. Attractions were easy to find, you luggage was hauled for you while you were swimming across the park. Even non-swimmer did perfectly well. Life vests, water shoes, snorkels, waterproof camera holders, everything was available on site. The animal encounters were adorable. The end-of-the night show was spectacular, 2 hours long and educational. The 7-course gourmet meal was a feast for the senses. I can't say enough. This is a must-have experience.
Zoey Hansen — Google review
This park is definitely one of the best - it is so large it can be overwhelming but I'd still encourage anyone to take their time, just maybe make a plan. There is a ton to see and a heavy emphasis on Mayan culture and flora/fauna. Some of the exhibit areas were really well done - the aviary reminded me totally of Jurassic Park.
Nice expansive gift shop at the end - great for a leisurely browse if you like that sort of thing.
Warning once inside the prices are HIGH.. we got a fruit drink type thing and it ended up being about $14 CAD.
Would come back if I was in the area - tons to do and lots of nice places to chill out and relax, or go on more adventurous things if you want.
One star off as I just can't get behind the dolphin enclosure areas.. just seems cruel and they swim around looking quite depressed until it is time to work. Not my favorite thing to see.
TIPS:
Wear comfy shoes
Bring sunscreen
Bring a change of clothes
They have lockers for swimming activities
Bring a water bottle (or a few)
Nick Fuss — Google review
A bit disappointing. The park looks pretty and is well maintained, but it's a bit boring and mediocre at best.
Basically it's like a zoo where you can swim and pay for some extra activities. The information (both on the website and on the park) is limited and incomplete. The staff is not very helpful. At the river entrance the staff member told us all 3 routes are the same, but that doesn't seem to be true.
There are some animals, but not enough to make it an interesting zoo.
There are some performances, but you have to be lucky find one at the right time.
There are some other sights, but nothing that impressed us much.
The food was good. No complaints about that!
Overall it feels overpriced and you will still have to pay extra for pretty much everything. We've been to much better theme parks and zoos.
Tip if you go: taxis are cheaper and faster than the official bus.
Menno v — Google review
Absolutely a beautiful and joyful experience. There is no way to do everything in one day. We had the Plus ticket which included lockers, buffet choice from one of several restaurants and other plus access and activities. We got lucky with the perfect weather and a time when it wasn't overly busy. There is a huge parking area and parking is included. Everything is clearly marked and clean. When you present or get your new tickets the way into the park is clear and there are many employees ready to help you along the way with any questions. There are several colored paths you can choose to follow on the sidewalks as well as marked "road" signs. Stop and look at the large map posted to orient yourself and look at all the things you can see and do. There are several small shows, sites, displays, interactions to choose from. It's not possible to do everything in one day. You can also pay for add-on activities or purchase an upgraded ticket that includes added activities. We didn't and we still had time only to see maybe 1/3rd of this beautiful place. If you're interested, read about how this place got developed. It's fascinating. My advice is that you pick the paths and activities you want to accomplish roughly with leeway to stop here and there along the way when something catches your eye. One thing - always carry water. The place is huge and it's hot and you need to hydrate. You can buy bottled water and refill it at several marked stations throughout the park. I am posting some photos but honesty they hardly do this place justice. Yes, it's pricey but for the cleanliness, quality, safety, variety and beauty of this place we found it highly worth it and plan on returning.
Ela Zed — Google review
What an amazing experience from them picking us up at our resort, to explaining the park on our way there. It was crazy busy the day we went but we still had so much fun. The underground river swim was spectacular and there are attractions along the route. There are animal exhibits which were cool. Our package included the lunch buffet which was better than some of the restaurants we went to in Playa. It was a great experience and would do it again.
Scott Peterson — Google review
Stunning resort with plenty to do, although additional activities comes with an additional price tag. Paid extra to swim with the dolphins and do sea trek. Long day with lots of walking, good food selections available, show at the end (7-9pm) felt extremely long after being there for 12 hours, however entertaining and worth seeing. Transportation included, picked us up from the hotel and straight back no issues. Staff are kind and helpful. Definitely worth a visit if you can keep up with all the walking!
Elisha — Google review
I can't say enough about this place. There is so much to see and do for all ages. There is a lot of walking so I would suggest comfortable shoes and if you intend to do the water activities I would bring water shoes because the reefs are very sharp. They let you bring in your own food and drinks as well as your own snorkeling equipment. I would suggest doing this if you are on a budget because the food drinks and Equipment can get quite expensive. Another thing I would suggest is to make sure you take a lot of your own pictures. A waterproof camera would be a great idea. The picture packages are also quite expensive.
Jacquie Bradshaw — Google review
BEST EXPERIENCE EVER!!!! The show at the end is worth watching. You will NEVER regret visiting here!!
It is a big park so if you Plan on visiting make sure you wear comfortable shoes. If you need a stroller for your little ones, they have areas to rent strollers for the day.
This is and ALL DAY activity from 7ish AM until 9PM.
There are two time slots for when ever you want to leave is you arrive via bus transportation it sit around 4PM and 9PM.
Comment questions if you have any, I’ll gladly answer them!!
Christa Abril Delgado — Google review
Visited this park on the last day of our vacation. This would be perfect for those folks with kids. It’s built mainly around 3 rivers that run through the park. If you are not planning to enter the river, then you might feel that the entrance fee is too expensive as the land activities are not that great. There’s an aviary and a butterfly pavilion which were nice. There was a horse show which was nice. The espectacular night show was amazing and beautiful performances by all the artists. Would definitely recommend staying for this show. Overall, the entrance fee seemed pricey for what the park offers.
Nidhi Kikkeri — Google review
Definitely a must see and an absolutely great experience! The underground river is a fun way to explore and travel, as there's checkpoints where you can stop if you want to leave early.
It's a very big location, so definitely a lot of walking but it has different areas which are themed and offer different things to see.
One of the best highlights and something you shouldn't miss is the show at the end, as they tell a great story about their past history and how their culture has evolved to what it is today.
Eric Dao — Google review
Wonderfully fun! Get the photo package it is worth it!
So many fun activities to do, unfortunately not enough time to do them all. Looking forward to another visit in the future. We went early to avoid the wait, but there was a huge line behind us by the time we had our activities booked.
Go as early as possible and book your activities right away before they fill up!
Broly Rotthäuser — Google review
This place was amazing. There is the underground river which is probably an hour? I don't know if went by really fast. Tons of beautiful sites to see, birds, ruins, monkeys. We had a blast on a day pass. I want to stay there sometime for several days just to get to really enjoy it.
Jen D — Google review
What a fun experience! We chose to do two extra cost activities and swam with stingrays and nurse sharks. Awesome activities which allowed some hands-on time with the animals. Make sure you are changed into your swim wear before you show up for your appointed time.
The aviary was incredible and filled with tons of birds.
Side note, many employees spoke fluent English, which was incredibly helpful for us.
Bring a waterproof phone case for your phone, cash, I.D. and receipts - they do sell them at the park. Bring coral safe sunscreen.
Sarah S — Google review
The night show is a must... it was really spectacular.
The day activities are fun as well, especially seeing some special animals and fishes. The inclusive lunch is tasty. You will need more time to go through all activities available.
However as a nature person, i would prefer just to see the night show and spend the day in the ocean instead of in a water park.
If you have kids and teens, this place is perfect to spend entire day.
WWS Alby — Google review
Loved this park and cannot wait to go back! It was adventure, culture and sooooo much to do. I definitely needed to stay for a few days but I went as part of a cruise excursions and it just wasn't enough time. My guide Javier was AMAZING! He's so kind and helpful. I love their idea for a picture package, but I wish that I would know where they would be so I can prep. Lots of my pictures were no good but still a phenomenal experience. Already planning a trip in the next few years to stay longer.
Krystle Hunter — Google review
Loved this place! Really wasn’t sure what to expect before going but it’s a really huge theme park that you can easily get lost in. It’s massive. We spent all day there and I feel like we only scratched the surface of what there is to see and do. Make sure if you go, you make it a whole day and stick around for the big show at night. It was incredible. Little bit of music and dance from every region in Mexico with a lot of history. Going way back to Mayan times. I’d go again in a heartbeat and I’d also like to check out some of their other parks.
Brandon Turner — Google review
As an American tourist, I wasn't sure how my visit here would go but it seemed like everyone spoke Spanish and English fluently and were exceptionally helpful when trying to find the next best activity.
I've never been anywhere like Xcaret and WOW they definitely deserve all the high praise they get. My husband and I really appreciated how easy everything was. Maps are plentiful along the paths, the paths are physically marked as the color they are on the map, and there are so many unique things to do here! Highly recommend the SeaTrek, also the dolphin experience if that's your kind of thing. FYI the photos from the Dolphin Experience are more expensive then I thought they would be, but we still splurged on it.
Speaking of photos, the photo pass for the park is 100% worth it. They really streamlined the process of taking magical photos and it's really not THAT expensive for how many great shots you can get with just a scan of the wristband.
Highly recommend this place and will hopefully be back to explore more of the park! If you can, try to get more then one day here, there are just way too many things to see and experience!
PS: make sure you have a waterproof phone case, your swimsuit, and at least one change of clothes. Most activities involve getting wet or honestly it's just real humid so being able to change helps considerably.
Svaya Grundstrom — Google review
Very clean and beautiful natural environment. The part where the birds are is very beautifully designed. Be sure to try the part where you can wear a mask and see the fish underwater. But if there were more colored fish, it would be more attractive.
samaneh rajaby sarvestany — Google review
For kids and adults, this place is absolutely amazing. Very well laid out, the kids' park is extremely safe & fun. Made me wist adults were allowed to use it.
The buffet was awesome, and animals are super cool to see. The butterfly sanctuary is beautiful as well. All around, I highly recommend the as your go-to place if you have never been.
Brandon Simmonds — Google review
Simply amazing!!!
This is such a beautiful place to visit. The unground river you can float in, I loved seeing the butterflies, the sea turtles and dolphins The buffet. I highly recommend visiting here if you are in the area. I also would recommend getting the plus pass. It will include the buffet.
Momentum Consulting — Google review
One of the best attractions I’ve ever been to (and I’ve traveled extensively around the world). The best way I can describe is: if Dubai + Disneyland had the perfect child: organized, clean, entertaining for the whole family, and most importantly, with its own personality. You can easily spend the whole day there from opening to closing. The food was great (vegan tacos were surprisingly delicious) and there are (free) drinking water fountains everywhere🙏 Lots of clean bathrooms too!
The night show is top notch, simply a must! The park is accessible to wheelchair users and disabilities such as hearing. I do have ethical issues with the activities involving swimming with dolphins and sharks but those are optional.
Medical attention is quick and effective (my 75 year old father got low blood pressure and he has very pleased with the assistance).
Thais B. — Google review
Heard so much about this place and it is INCREDIBLY AMAZING!!! Our tour guide was so organized and we got in and just had an amazing time from the moment we laid our eyes on this gorgeous place. We had the buffet and it was so good, I tried a little bit of everything and just wish i could have eaten more! The swim in the cave was incredible, albeit my anxiety was a little high swimming with 2 little ones, but there are guides along the way and lifeguards throughout the way. The scenery was beautiful but the most amazing part was the show at the end and the delicious food we were served during the presentation. I would love to come back here because we didn't even see half the grounds even though we spent all day here. Definitely recommend!! We had a 1 year old, 3 year old and 15 year old who all had a great, great time!
angelica atoigue — Google review
I would definitely recommend if you come with kids and with a full tank of energy. This park is a 12+ hour day of activities.
There is lots to do and to discover but also keep in mind that you will have to buy lunch and dinner, so keep lots of extra money for the day.
Also, a lot or should I say most of the fun activities like in water walking and snorkeling are extra.
So visiting this park will definitely keep you entertained but can also leave a hole in your pockets.
Marissa Bergeron — Google review
It was a very refreshing experience! A well maintained wildlife park. No funny smells (which is understandable if there was), fun exhibits, cute photo ops and cool activities to do! The final show was absolutely stunning!
The lazy river however dint have tubes so it felt like a little bit of a work out. I would avoid if you don’t know how to swim because the support rope is discontinued in some areas. Im 5’3 and I couldn’t stand at any point. It does take all day to check out everything, so I suggest reaching the park early like around 9-10 AM.
It definitely is a must visit! I highly recommend it! It can be a cute date idea and also a fun big group trip!
Indhu Pathmanathan — Google review
Very good theme park to visit, around 30 minutes away from Bahia Principe area. Getting in is very easy if you come early, around 5 minutes before it actually opens. The whole experience was very exotic and beautiful. Recommend the underground river first thing. Pretty dark at some times, and many of them to choose from, including one with ropes to swing from in the dark areas. Maps are easy to understand after that, with the whole park split into sections. Buffets are all around the place, in case you need a quick bite. Extra activities are about as expensive as Xel-Ha’s other activities, like the swimming with sharks. Mayan city exhibit features different natural and Mayan wonders. Truly a good place to end the day off. Beaches are nice, and snorkeling is very interesting, only it’s pretty popular, so you won’t see much fish in the crowded areas. Price is a bit expensive but acceptable, so just a nice place to go to on a day off.
Harvey Shao — Google review
Brought my twin 13yo kids for their first time on 3/14/24 and they had the best time! We arrived at 11am and regret not arriving earlier because there’s so much to do. I’d recommend that you do all the water activities first, enjoy the free buffet then walk around and explore. There’s a huge lazy river with multiple entrances so you can take different routes to the exit. It’s quite a long swim so be prepared. There’s also a zoo, aquarium, ruins and much more sight seeing to do.
You can buy tickets in advance for a small discount off, but the best deal you’ll get is at the airport. You’ll have to attend a sales meeting at Xcaret hotel but their team is kind and you get a free buffet. I ended up buying the membership and would advise that if you’re going to buy then don’t take the first deal they offer you lol.
Ivy Palacios — Google review
A great experience for the whole family. Float in the senotes, swim in the ocean, visit all the tropical birds, catch the best show at night, and splurge on dolphin experience.
Bring some cash and a waterproof phone case for sure. Arrive early. We paid for the photo pass which made the experience more fun for sure!
Jacqueline Miles — Google review
4.8
(104816)
•
4.5
(48237)
Carretera Chetúmal Puerto Juárez Kilómetro 282, Solidaridad, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Río Secreto is a vast underground cave system in Playa del Carmen that offers visitors a unique ecological experience. The cave system extends for as much as 38km (23mi), and includes flooded limestone caves, underwater lagoons and stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can explore the system on guided tours, but get ready to swim or dive to see the best of the cave system's underwater rock formations and marine life.
Fantastic, unique experience to explore caves up to 78 feet below the surface. The staff and tour guides are very friendly and safety conscious. Best done in groups of 4-10 people as you must assist each other through the cave walkways. Physical exertion is moderate but you must be able to navigate slippery rocks and tight spaces. Absolutely would do this again!
Christopher Magaha — Google review
One of the best excursions I have ever done! It was amazing. Daniele was a great guide. We were outfitted with life jackets, wet suits, helmets, and walking sticks. We had a place to store our stuff. It was an easy, short walk to cave entrance. The inside of the cave was so neat and interesting to learn about. I felt like an adventurer not a tourist. We had about 90 minutes inside and our own photographer. Afterwards, we were provided towels and changing time. We viewed our photos were we ate lunch. Would highly recommend.
Christa Dandoy — Google review
Amazing experience. Everyone was so accommodating from beginning to end. Very informative tour guide. It really made us feel like we were a part of history.
It is a strenuous excursion but we did have a person that was unsure of the passages and the tour guide helped her every step of the way.
Very much worth the money for excursion. I did feel like the photos were expensive and should have a chance to get all the pics for a better price. Was only able to buy one pic as there were expensive in my opinion and then only sent through email.
All in all a great excursion.
Live A Great Story!
Stephany Schreck — Google review
I love this place. A MUST see if you can. My favorite Virgin Voyage shore excursion. Our guide Mely and our photographer made the Maya experience very memorable for my family. The photos are worth every penny and 100% better than any photos a tourist would take.
lisa vee — Google review
Amazing experience. Worth the money paid.
If you want to explore and listen to silence while floating in the darkness, then this is the place. A tour that will take you to the woods, caves, and rivers.
Once you enter you will be welcomed with smiling faces. The tour guide, David, introduced us to the Mayan culture, and rich information about the nature of the cave and Mexico in general. His English language and his way of conveying the information were excellent. A professional photographer accompanied the group throughout the trip. Thank you Hector for the beautiful photos.
The tour included dry cave, bike rides, rappelling, and wet cave tour (plus package).
No cell phones allowed during the tour.
What you need to bring:
- Put on a Comfortable clothing and good quality shoes.
- Swimsuit (can be worn underneath your clothing for convenience).
- Wet shoes for the wet cave tour. If you wish you can borrow a pair from there, or buy your own for 15 US$.
- Change of clothes.
- Towels, or you can use the ones provided to you.
- Money for tips and photos
What is provided by the team:
- safety helmets
- Safety gloves
- Life jacket
- Wet suit
- Towels
- Lockers
- Lunch buffet
✅ Positive
- the whole experience is magnificent.
- Time commitment
- Facilities well maintained and clean
- Staff are nice and expert.
- The audio script during the dry cave tour.
❌ Negative:
- I’m not sure that equipment are cleaned between users. Helmets were either dusty or wet. Gloves were wet and stinky.
- Did not put on the wet suit, so I’m not sure about its status.
- Lunch buffet was not appealing to me. Probably because so many groups have eaten before we did. Did not eat so don’t know about the taste.
- Pictures are very expensive. 120 US$ for all photos, or 30 US$ for a single photo.
Sahar Moamina — Google review
What a truly special experience. The first part of the tour was a beautiful walk in the dry caves. The geological formations looked so amazing and it was fascinating to know how old these formations were.
The next part was more action packed with a fun 1 mile bike ride to a site where we rappelled down a cave and wade in some amazingly clear water.
Then we had the main event, the underground waters. These cave systems are so amazing with their formations and the beautiful waters down there. There were some tiny catfish down there, along with some extremely small shrimp. Our guide David was the best giving us the tour and helping us out with anything we needed.
Truly an unforgettable experience.
Angelo Reyes — Google review
Great experience!! Very well managed. Our guide was very knowledgeable and courteous. Their pick-up was on time, and everything on schedule as planned. Took the underground river tour with trip to Tulum Ruins.
Gaurav Bahl — Google review
This place is phenomenal!!! I think our guide made it such an amazing experience. However, sadly, I can't remember her name. This place is for those seeking a little bit of adventure.
When you meet at the location a van picks you up, and takes you to another area where the adventure begins.
You start off walking inside the cave. You put some headphones on to hear about the caves. It's an interesting story.
Once you are done with the walking, get ready to ride a bike to the next adventure. Your bike ride takes you to the repelling section. I was a little nervous, but it really wasn't that bad.
Afterwards, you bike to the final adventure. You get into the water and follow the river that is inside the cave. Such an amazing experience.
Please keep in mind that you cannot take your cellphone for safety reasons. They also sell the pictures. They are a little pricey, but worth it in my opinion.
Nelda Fernandez — Google review
Super fun and very unique experience. Our 8 year old was nervous especially when the water got deep but our guide let him hold onto his back. The guide Fernando was knowledgeable and made the experience a lot of fun. Good energy! There was a buffet afterwards with options for everyone. (We appreciated there were vegetarian options!) I had read reviews that the road was a bit like a roller coaster and gave the kids gravol in anticipation. Was glad I did. It was a day we will always remember and was 100% worth it! So glad our family booked and got to experience this!
Ghislaine Warner — Google review
Excellent place to visit while you visit the Mayan Riviera! The tour takes about 3 hours and they take you deep inside caves/cenotes for a wonderful experience enjoying crystal clear water and cave formations. Water temperature is low but you will get used to it in minutes. They will lend you beach shoes but I recommend you to take your own. They serve food at the end included in your pay rate. Price wise is very good!! The trail is very rocky and uneven so keep in mind you have to be careful. I hope you enjoy it just as much as we did!!
Jesus Esquivel — Google review
These caves are magical and a must see if visiting southern Mexico. It is one of National Geographic's top 10 places in the world to visit. Our guide was amazing and we felt safe throughout our tour. We traversed through the cave at varying depths, which were mostly knee high. We were equipped with a wet suit, water shoes, a walking stick, a life jacket, and hard hat with a light (all provided on site). There was even a 5 year-old girl on our tour.
Nicole Cappiello — Google review
The BEST excursion! Beautiful scenery, amazing cavern and river. Our guide, Daniella, made it even better with all of his information about the rainforest. Will definitely go again!
Pam Meador — Google review
Awesome place and must do 🇲🇽
We get inside with guide that explain us a lot about the creation of the cave and more and it was just really nice. At some point he told us to float inside the water and close our eyes, and then he just close all the flash lights so it will be pitch black.
This was one of my best experiences ever and I highly recommend!!!! 🔥
You should definitely add this place to your list 👍
The only thing that bothered me is that they didn't let us go inside with our own cameras and the photos that the photographer took cost 100 dollars. Moreover, when I downloaded all the photos it was completely mess because they are striped of metadata so there is no timestamp in them 😔.
Nadav Rosenberg — Google review
Highly recommend this underground river tour. It was really so interesting and so beautiful
our guide Ari was really knowledgeable and we had a lot of fun with him. I didn’t feel scared and we were safe the whole time. I wasn’t really impressed with the lunch they served, but that’s really not why we went on this excursion. It was for the beauty of these underground rivers in Mexico
i highly recommend this tour!!
You could not bring your camera underground with you so of course so there’s no pictures of that in my review but at the end you could buy a package for $100 or each individual picture for 25
The package is pictures of you that she takes, and all the other pictures that she took down there
so when you’re underground with your group and you see the photographer. maybe say “oh take a picture of this over here” because it’s all in the package
but if there’s things you see that you want her to take a picture of I would recommend asking her “can you please take a picture of this for me?” but I wouldn’t spend too much time on that but if I’d known I would’ve had her take a picture of a couple really cool things that we saw. We saw a tiny bat hanging and it would have been great to get that pic! Yes, the price is expensive for the package but it’s a once in a lifetime memory and you’ll have no record of it. If you don’t get something … so you could get one picture or you can get the whole package which is what we decided to do.
Teresa — Google review
This was truly an amazing experience. My husband and I booked this through our cruise line while we were docked in Cozumel. Our guide, Inna, was friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating to everyone in our group. They supply all of your gear, help you feel safe during the entire experience, and take great photos throughout the trip (available for purchase after the tour is over). They have lockers for your belongings, clean restrooms and changing/shower stalls. I would definitely do this again!
Erica Rutledge — Google review
An unbelievable journey down an underwater river/cave system. It's worth every penny, totally recommend. I can't wait to go back gain on my next visit to Quintana Roo
Alan Cobo — Google review
Exploring Rio Secreto was hands down the highlight of our one week vacation. We love caves and we love being in the water, what a fantastic way to combine the two. The cave was impressive, with a variety of spectacular formations. We went swimming in a cave. Miguel was a wonderful guide, sharing information about the cave, engaging the group, and giving us information about the terrain. We were there with a group of 9 people, and we were with 6 others on the cave tour, I think all 9 of us would agree that this was one of our best experiences of the whole trip. My 7 year old son had a great experience and he enjoyed it a lot.
Chinthaka Rajapakshe — Google review
Danae, our guide, was fantastic. She was a great guide for our group. Caves were very easy to go through.
Chris Avelino — Google review
What an incredible experience!!!!
I’ve been to the Yutican about a half dozen times, but this was the first time I had the opportunity for this tour. I’ve also toured/explored a few caves and cenotes in my life, but none compared to this adventure.
The entire tour is spent below the earth exploring the first of three levels of this natural wonder. Our guide, Felipe, was not only knowledgeable, professional and fun but also clearly passionate about the earth and shared his deep respect for its wonders with us.
The largest portion of time was spent exploring more open cave systems and shallow waters. When we got to the “turning” point Felipe educated us more in a large open pool area and then had us all shut off our lights for a short duration. The thick black silence was calming and serene but also drove home the point of how difficult cave exploration is.
After this point, the waters became deeper and the access ways far more narrow and low. We swam and walked and climbed and ducked our way out.
I loved it. The tour was everything I had dared to hope for.
April Meyers — Google review
We had the best time with Rio Secreto WILD! Mowgli took us on an all day very physically demanding adventure! He kept us laughing all day. Biking though the jungle was fantastic & the cave system was amazing! We loved feeling like the only ones there. (Not many are up for the biggest tour they offer) we loved it all! The buffet was yummy!
Cynthia Burdick — Google review
Israel was our tour guide. We absolutely loved our experience in the cave, and even our ferry ride over. We liked Israel a lot, we had an older couple with us, it's a lot of walking and climbing and more difficult for them, and he made sure to put them up front and help them, and go at their pace. We saw bats and fish and just had a great time. Thank you.
Krista Yenke — Google review
Beautiful caves, they take care of the park. Absolutely breathtaking water caves. Our guide Victor, was very knowledgeable and funny.
Can be physically challenging, make sure you check what you sign up for as there are different activities. I had lunch here, food is very good. Make sure you bring money for pictures as you are not allowed to bring your phone in.
Karen Chicas — Google review
Rio Secreto provides a mesmerizing underground adventure, unveiling the hidden wonders of nature with captivating limestone formations and crystal-clear waters. The guided tour offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience. However, it's important to note that there's room for improvement in the cleanliness of tools, wetsuits, helmets, and the public restrooms in the reception area. A more meticulous approach to cleanliness would undoubtedly enhance the overall visitor experience.
ARI K PRODUCTION (Arian Khoroushi) — Google review
Imelda was the most amazing tour guide! The culture and history were perfectly explained as we were immersed in it from our first encounter to the absolute very end. Our group was like a little family as we moved from activity to activity, encouraging one another and celebrating the victories of overcoming fears and new challenges. The bike ride was my second favorite activity coming in close being swimming in the caves. The repel and dry cave walk were also amazing. The Mayan house model and permission ceremony were both also very much interesting and we enjoyed them as well. Imelda, thank you again for allowing us the opportunity to experience your culture in such an intimate manner.
J Smiles — Google review
My wife and I went on a tour that included Tulum and Rio Secreto, and it was an amazing experience. The tour guide was knowledgeable and the staff was friendly. The drive to Tulum took about 45 minutes, and we spent 1.5 hours there with some free time in the market.
At Rio Secreto, they provided lockers and all the necessary equipment. The adventure wasn’t too tough but required a bit of swimming. After the tour, we went to their restaurant, but the food was below average and cold. It might be better to eat back at your hotel.
I had read comments about the photo prices, so I was prepared. I bought one photo for $30, but I skipped the rest, which would have cost $110. Overall, I would rate the experience 8.5/10
Vatsal Shah — Google review
4.7
(7102)
•
4.5
(9550)
Carretera Federal Libre Chetumal - Puerto Juárez Km 283.5, Ejido Sur, 77712, 77712 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is a spacious and family-friendly beach club located in Cozumel. It offers an array of water activities suitable for all ages, such as twin waterslides, a floating obstacle course, kayaks, and snorkeling. Additionally, the park boasts a kids' pirate-themed water park and a sunken Maya village to explore underwater. Visitors can also enjoy Mexican-American favorites at the full-service restaurant or grab drinks at the beachside bar.
Great for kids of all ages; easy to find and accessible. Plan on being there for 4 or more hours; we were there for 6 hours. In this case, I recommend getting the all-inclusive food and bar package. We had access to food and snacks all day. My 7 and 4 yr old took advantage on all the amenities. They were not a fan of the ocean, full disclosure, they were afraid of the stings or biting feeling from the sea weed. It is not as bad as it may sound, but it put a halt to us using the floating obstacle courses. Both my kids were able to use the water slide. Your kid will need to be able to swim on their own.
Bathrooms were very clean and maintained all day long. You also feel very safe in the park. The staff is welcoming and very nice.
Food was amazing. We had ceviche and shrimp and beef tacos. Some of the best I had on the island.
Chief Rocca — Google review
My husband and I had the opportunity to visit here during an excursion from our cruise. This resort is amazing. The service is spectacular. The food was beyond delicious. You’ve got the crystal clear water or the crystal clear pools. The bathrooms were clean and well maintained by staff. This resort also offered WIFI access that was very much appreciated. There was a beach side bar service that we absolutely loved. 10/10 highly recommend. Would absolutely go back again. Worth every single penny!
Kari Bourget — Google review
It's seaweed season, but that was ok! The pools were wonderful. The buffet -though limited- was great and the drinks were good. They have kayaks, water bikes, and other things you can use while there. I'd go back!
Krystal Anne — Google review
Loved Playa Mia, our cruise she was at Cozumel on a Thursday and we wanted something kid friendly and pre booked Playa Mia and it was PERFECT! We did the amazing beach break package. We had our own beach chairs, personal waiter named Jose whom we LOVED! The food was realllllly good and the drinks were also very good!
We got a massage with people who didn’t bug you like crazy about it.
There’s tons of stuff included in this package also and then other things at an additional charge.
Also it was not busy AT ALL so we almost had the whole place to ourselves!
They also brought us beach toys for our baby to play with! Both my 1.5 and 5 yr old took a nap on the beach 🙌🏼🎉 10/10 recommend.
Hannah Uren — Google review
Was a decent place to spend the day at the beach. It's set up mostly for families with young children. Everything you may need is available there. Beach chairs are first come, first served. So get there early if you want to see the ocean. The chair's are packed tight together. Beach umbrellas are available for $5 rental. There is a very large splash pool for the little ones. For those older there are two large inflatable obstacle courses in the ocean a short swim away. Waitstaff are readily available if you want to drink or eat at your beach chair or at the large covered dining area. The water was murky when we went. There was nothing nearby to see snorkeling. Maybe on a clearer day it would be better. It was very crowded, but didn't feel overwhelming. Lifeguards are available and kept a good eye on the swimmers. Cash is preferred, but they do accept credit cards.
Joe Ternyik — Google review
I loved hanging out at Playa Mia. I was on an excursion from a cruise ship and had a lot of fun doing salsa dancing and making salsa and guacamole. Afterwards, we hung out at the pool and walked the beach. There was some sargassum on the beach, but it looked like the beach attendants were doing a good job trying to keep it out of the water and off the main part of the beach. The water was warm, the vibe was friendly. The music was a little loud for my taste, but hey, some people like that. That's why we moved to the beach. The shops were also interesting. I was able to get some souvenirs for my nephew, and he loved them. Out in the swimming area of the ocean, there was a bouncy house type thing that they called a water slide. I was expecting a different type of water slide. They have 2 pools, multiple restrooms, and changing rooms.
Angela Winters — Google review
Beautiful resort to spend your day with or without kids.
Prices start at 40$ per pp, kids at 20$
You can use all amenities without additional cost.
If you want something to drink, a bottle of water is 3$ all sodas and beers are 5$.
Taxes from the port to Resort is 17$
Roby R. — Google review
We booked an excursion here from our cruise for the cooking class. It was so fun, and the food was great! After we did some shopping and swam in the beach. The water was crystal clear, and there are great shops to visit! I would definitely recommend stopping here if you're in Cozumel!
Amber Brown — Google review
We booked the snorkeling and beach park through a local travel agent. Due high winds we were not able to go to El Cielito but we were taken to do snorkeling at Paraiso. It was absolutely amazing. We were on Aqua Dream 5 with Captain Jose and guide Luis. I am not a strong swimmer and I was a little hesitant to do the snorkeling. The catamaran was very clean and the crew was extremely friendly and knowledgeable of the area. To snorkel at the second largest coral reef in the world was the most amazing experience of my life. Saw so many fish and the coral reef had the most beautiful colors. The water was the most beautiful and clear I have seen in my 50+ years. Luis was awesome and encouraging and I felt very safe. After a second snorkeling session we made our way to Playa Mia Beach Club for lunch. The buffet food choices were plenty and the food was delicious. The beach area was clean and there was plenty of seating available both at the restaurant and at the beach. Since sunscreen is not permitted I would highly recommend wearing a rash guard shirt to prevent sunburn. I would do it all over again if possible.
Tita Summers — Google review
We purchased tickets via Viator. The meeting instructions were fine. We had transportation there. We did not shop because we lost track of time, but they had souvenir shops, tequila tastings chocolate. Beach was beautiful. Wind was so strong, it made the inflatable obstacle course quite difficult. Life veers and water tricycles were available free with our admission as was food and drink. Drinks were not very strong, but the service was good. They appreciated cash tips. Buffet was fine but not the most kid friendly. The big disappointment was that the water slides were not working that day. We spent so much time at the beach that we didn't really get to enjoy the pools. We did have an issue with the transportation back to the cruise ship where the driver attempted to charge us even though he knew we had transportation included. We worked it out. Overall, not a bad purchase. Next time, we will most likely try another park or resort.
Jamie Miller — Google review
Nice resort beach with good food and drinks.
We were here on a cruise ship excursion … “Salsa, Salsa, and Margarita”. Great excursion !
Be sure to sample the tequila at Don Tequila while here. It’s fantastic !!
Don Yonce — Google review
We arrived fairly early and were the first folks on the beach. Service was awesome. We saw a lot of beautiful fish and a huge stingray. We did the catamaran and clear tandem kayak. Our pilot in the catamaran, Angel, was super nice and made the journey a blast.
Heather G — Google review
We visited last week on an excursion booked through Disney Cruise Line. We only had about 90 minutes here, which really wasn't sufficient; you could easily enjoy a full day here. We had our two year old with us and he LOVED their splash pad. It was the best kid's splash pad I've ever seen. We walked along the beach, which was nice, and looked at the inflatable water park they had (looked so fun, but didn't get to utilize.) We did not try any of the food, because there wasn't enough time, but they had both a buffet option and served option. They also had a lot of shops as you enter, which was nice.
Staff were pleasant and the facility was well maintained. Only bummer was it was super packed and we didn't have enough time to enjoy it! We'd definitely visit here again if we find ourselves in Cozumel in the future!
Amy DiGangi — Google review
I would NOT pay to go on this excursion again. It's not worth it. The "all-inclusive" buffet was EXTREMELY pathetic. Not just because. Lacking in. But also the taste. And it wasn't because it wasn't American enough.... I love authentic Mexican food.... I even like the tex-mex America version. This was neither. Even my family would not eat the food.. They have menu food that you can order, but it's not included and the all-you-can-eat. So I technically did not try anything from the actual menu.... I just went to the buffet. Maybe that food was better. They advertised the floating tricycles, but I did not even see one available, not even one in use. My children did like the floating Obstacle course and played out there for a while.... I did not get to enjoy the. Pool where the bar was because somebody "left a special package in the pool" So they had to close it by about 2 PM that day. I realize that is not their fault i'm just stating my experience. I did not realize. That the excursion wasn't even going to get us there until almost 1 pm. Again not their fault. I should have paid better attention... I purchased the excursion almost 8 months before we actually went so at that time, I'm sure I saw what time it was scheduled for at that time but I would have just thought for the amount of money that you paid. You would be able to enjoy more than about 3 hours of the resort. I would have probably had a better time if I had just stayed around the port and went to one of the American restaurants that were close. There is not a lot of selection. All in all, to be honest. I really. Don't know what the hype about Cozumel is. I am sure I would have had a better time just staying on the ship. I realize I only went to one part of Cozumel....but next time, I'll just pass.
JENNIFER ESPINOZA — Google review
Taxi drivers that took us here stated he didn’t have change was charging us 36 for the trip to this resort. Then stated it would be 55 then asked us if we wanted to pay him $100 to “stay there all day”for us. When we got there he went straight to the receptionist talked to her for a bit (I didn’t know why he had to talk to her if we spoke Spanish as well we didn’t need a translator) and then came to us and stated he didn’t have change. When we asked the resort receptionist she stated she didn’t have change. We only had large bills (didn’t have $1 bills) we asked the souvenir shops inside the resort if they had change “none of them had change” which is weird being that how else would you give customers their change if the have large bills, when we paid for the resort entrance they magically had change to give us. Also the conversion from US dollars to pesos weren’t what we were charged they over charged us for the resort entrance fee. When we got into the resort the food that’s included was bland, the drinks tasted weird, the beach wasn’t as clear as we were told it would be. I was also harassed by an employee there, overall the experience was not like any other beach we visited on our trip. Other beaches we visited were cheaper to get into, water was clearer, employees were nice and very accommodating. Seemed like this resort was over priced for something we could’ve done for cheaper price. Would not recommend to anyone I know. Only reason we stayed was because we had already paid the drive there and our kids were fussy, we went with our friends that have a little one) Over all we (my husband & I) were charged $138 for our 3hr stay there. When we have paid $60 for a ride, beach chair, umbrella, drinks at another beach. Also when we left our next taxi driver stated the ride would be $25 vs the $35, $55, $100 the first taxi driver was trying to charge us.
birginia juarez — Google review
A truly spectacular experience at Playa Mia Grand Beach Park in Cozumel, Mexico! This destination offers everything you could dream of for a perfect beach day. From the moment you step onto the powdery white sand, you're enveloped in a paradise-like atmosphere.
The amenities and activities are unparalleled. The variety of water sports, including snorkeling and kayaking, make for an adventurous and fun-filled day. The highlight, though, is the thrilling water park with its slides and pools that cater to both kids and the young at heart.
The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring you have everything you need to make the most of your time at the park. The food and drinks on offer are delicious and varied, offering a taste of both local and international flavors.
Playa Mia's facilities are top-notch. Clean restrooms, well-maintained lounging areas, and convenient changing rooms all contribute to a comfortable experience. Whether you're seeking relaxation under a swaying palm tree or an action-packed day in the water, Playa Mia has it all.
Personally, I was blown away by the picturesque views, the quality of service, and the overall atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for families, friends, or even solo travelers looking for an unforgettable beach getaway. I can't wait to return and create more cherished memories at Playa Mia Grand Beach Park. Highly recommended!
Ariel Rieumont — Google review
We love going to Playa Mia. We have younger kids, less than 8, and there are plenty of things they can do. They love the water park area and slide. The obstacle course is fun, but a little too difficult for them. The food is always great. We order off the menu, not the buffet, and the prices are great and food is fantastic. We recommend to any friends going to Cozumel that have young kids.
Becca Wang — Google review
One of the few "beaches" with sand so you can swim, use water toys, or just lounge in the sun. There are several of these full service, paid beaches in cozemel, but this one from experience is the has the most to offer for the price.
Well worth it for one day to enjoy a fun in the sun and give a whirl on their floating wipe out course or enjoy some water slides by the sea.
Adam Cook — Google review
I bought the excursion through a MSC cruise ship. $256 for two. Included the bus transportation, food and all you can drink. Buffet was not too great. The beans were mostly liquid and cold tortillas. All you can drink only included draft beer that wasn't very cold and served in a small plastic cup. Weak mix drinks. Plastic beach chairs were horribly uncomfortable, small umbrellas for shade. Make sure to tip the umbrella guy. The ocean water was a nice temperature and looked beautiful however your legs got wrapped with seaweed. Most of the visitors preferred the pools. The package included a water tricycle but a maximum of 10 minutes otherwise you'll have to pay. Tourist trap.
Geneva — Google review
4.4
(5873)
•
4.0
(2496)
Carr. Costera Sur Km. 15, 77600 Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
Mr Sanchos Beach Club is a renowned beach bar located in Cozumel, offering an all-inclusive experience at an affordable price. It is a family-run establishment that boasts a 1,500 feet stretch of pristine beachfront and provides exceptional services to its visitors. Apart from sun loungers and access to pools, the club also offers delicious eats and unlimited drinks. The servers are always on hand to cater to your needs, ensuring you have a relaxing day out with your loved ones.
My husband and I stayed here for our 10 year anniversary and now I will recommend it to everyone I know. It was THE MOST incredible experience! All of the staff were so helpful and kind and went out of their way to make this a special experience for us. The food and drinks were delicious and the service was like nothing I’ve experienced before. I cannot say enough great things about Mr. Sancho’s. Thank you to the whole Mr. Sancho’s team for your dedication and hard work. This is a true VIP experience and we will definitely be back!
Abigail Norris — Google review
Property is beautiful and well maintained. Ivan, our server, was very attentive and made sure we had everything we needed during the day. Both my friend and I had massages at the spa - and we highly recommend both Bertha and Carmita as massage therapists.
The only thing we wished they'd offered as part of the package are towels - so remember to bring your own or pay extra to rent them.
We thoroughly enjoyed our relaxing day at Mr. Sanchos!
Pam Mccarthy — Google review
Our family came here for the day on one of our cruise stops. We had been to Montego Bay and Cayman Islands the 2 days prior to this stop and although the beaches were nice in those 2 areas, Mr. Sanchos was by far my favorite due to the service. Jane at the front desk was so sweet and our server Mani was the best! There are so many things to do and the cocktails were great. My only complaint was the food wasn't that great but everything else was perfect!
Jessica Olsen — Google review
Our family saw a Travel Blog supporting Mr. Sancho's Beach Club ALL Inclusive..NOT SUPPORTED By Carnival Cruise Lines as an off ship experience which is a very Dang (Superlatives Deleted) Shame...Yet still safe and easy to get to with the regulated taxi service from the ports and back...The staff at this all day hang out were 1000% above and beyond.. You must reserve your spot in advance and I recommend early arrival to get a great spot..Also a huge shout out to Chino Doroteo for going above and beyond as a guest server here..You sir are 100000% a great guy and I hope I have you again someday..On a sad note my daughter inadvertently left her pail of sand for her shell collection which was not recovered unfortunately...reached out to Mr. Sancho's however they weren't able to help unfortunately..but hey they are responsive none the less...The only other thing I was hoping for was a meet and greet with Mr. Sancho's himself for a photo op.. but my arrival wasn't on cue for this...GREAT JOB MR. SANCHO'S
Mark Parker — Google review
Sauri was our waiter, he was fantastic. We had our drinks and food so quick. We loved his service. Mr. Sanchos is a must see. The atmosphere was so great. We sat at a table just feet from the water. The facility is clean and beautiful.
They have cabs waiting for pick up. So if you were worried about getting back to your ship in time no worries. The cab drivers drive fast you'll get back in 10 to 13 minutes.
Melissa Stallings — Google review
I read reviews prior to reserving as my traveling group of 6 wanted to try out Mr Sancho’s. I was nervous that it was not a “Carnival excursion” available through our cruise. Some
Of the negative reviews made me more anxious but a went to be with my friends.
BOY! Am I glad I did!
My husband and I loved our afternoon and only wished it could have web longer.
True to reviews the beach is not wide and sandy but under blue skies and warm sun looking out over the Carribean we could not have been happier.
Each couple in our group rented a cabana and the staff moved assignments to keep us all in a group.
Our servers, Limbert and Saul were gracious and fun. Drinks were never empty for long. Food was delicious and quick to the table. When afternoon breezes started, Limbert tied our cabana curtains to keep them from blowing on us.
Rosa and Julie provided our massages in a separate designated cabana. A tub for feet was at the massage table to clean off sand. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed but Rosa took great care of me.
I also got a pedicure. Gel for $50. Nice job and something I didn’t have time for at home.
The pools were lovely but we were so comfortable in our cabana that we didn’t make use of them.
Thank Mr Sancho’s team for a memorable afternoon.
**our group rented a van service/taxi for the trip from port to Mr Sancho’s. $67 per couple got us round trip and our driver Jorje never left the parking lot.
If the mood changed he would drive us around the island, take us to a tequila distillery tour or back to port for shopping.
I don’t know the van service name but they were excellent and available at the port taxi area.
Marsha Kellum — Google review
Better to book in advance, as the place books up fast. Visited, from a carnival Cruise, me and a friend took last week. The place is beautiful and the staff are very friendly. All you can eat and drink for 1 price. Well worth the price and the visit. If ever I go another cruise and they Port near here. I'm definitely going back. We had an awesome day, and met lots of people from all over the US and Mexico. There is a short taxi ride from the port to here. Cost was $20.00. Our stay for the day was somewhere around $68.00 each. Well worth the price, for the crystal clear blue water, lots of activities around and of the all you can eat & drink. Who could beat that. 🏖🏊♀️🌊🚣♀️😍😁
Trudy Babin (MissKajunKitty) — Google review
What an amazing experience! Not only was it beautiful- scenery and their accommodations- it was an all around fantastic time! Diego, our server, went above and beyond. He made sure we were very hydrated with all the delicious beverages offered on the menu, and our tummies were happy. The food definitely shocked me with how good it was. We WILL be back!! Diego knocked it out of the park with his exceptional customer service!
Mary Crandall — Google review
We went on a Sunday and had a great time! The food was good (not as good as other locations in Cozumel but still good), the drinks were good, the service was good, and the beach was great! I recommend trying the tamarind margarita! We came from open to close to get our full $60 worth and it was well worth it. The biggest downside during our visit was that because it was Sunday, all of the shops were closed. We did come back the next day to check them out and we ended up purchasing a couple of souvenirs. I did end up getting sick after leaving this place but I don't think it had anything to do with the location itself and was more just my bad luck. I saw my first wild iguana outside in the parking lot of this place as well! I will definitely visit again on my next trip to Cozumel! It was a nice atmosphere and one of the better beach locations we visited while there.
Populist Hawk — Google review
Stopped by Cozumel and Mr. Sanchos on our first cruise on the Carnival Sunrise. Fun resort to hangout and relax. The staff at Mr. Sanchos was awesome and should be commended for their work. Our servers Jose and Amando were great. Also had fun getting my feet cleaned by fish, interesting experience. Was fun and it did tickle.
Randy Ming — Google review
We have been visiting Cozumel for decades. Good beaches are hard to find in Cozumel. Mr Sanchos has a great beach and waterfront. They are super easy to get to and from the cruise ports. The taxi drivers are union professionals running their routes on flat rates expect $20 each way with tips included. The drinks were very good. The swim up bars were fun. The massages were very professional and enjoyable and the cabanas were very romantic. The bathrooms were clean, especially the one behind the Spa.
Scott Malinowski — Google review
This was my first trip back to Mr. Sancho's since the pandemic. Friends and I booked a Carnival cruise with a stop in Cozumel. I made our reservation online 3 months before our trip because it is a popular resort and can be turned away if there are no day passes. The booking required $5 per person deposit, and I paid the remaining balance when I got there. We took a cab from the Playa for $17 one way and got there within 15 min.
I'd been to Mr. Sancho's 4 previous times and have never been disappointed. This was no different. The staff (Roberto and Audon) were awesome. They're friendly, funny, attentive, and considerate. To drink, I had the Mr. Sancho Special, which is a tamarindo margarita, coconut shrimp, and the nachos.
This was my friends' first time here, and they enjoyed having access to the pool and swim up bar after being out in the ocean.
If you're going to be in Cozumel, make a reservation at Mr. Sancho's. You can drink, eat, swim, be entertained, and shop in one place. ❤️
Cynthia Munoz — Google review
It was a great place. The food and drinks were so good. It was an all inclusive for 65.00. Beautiful water. The staff was on point with drinks. They never let your drink get empty before you had another one. The best place to go. I will return.
Latoria Wynn — Google review
Reserve in advance before they sell out. If they sell out, check back daily and chances are, spots open up.
For a family of 4, taxi from the International Cruise Terminal to Mr. Sancho's was $20 each way. Always had plenty of taxi's at both locations waiting to take you there or back.
Service was top notch to give you an experience to keep you coming back, that's for sure. Unlimited food, drinks, everything! Family friendly, fun and festive atmosphere. We look forward to going back on our future cruises.
If you smoke, they have an area off to the edge for the smokers.
Christopher Porter — Google review
During my visit to Mr. Sanchos Beach Club on a cruise stop, I appreciated the seamless check-in process after making a reservation. Our table on the sandy shores with a view of the beach and pool set a picturesque scene. The server, while friendly, seemed a bit stretched attending to multiple tables. Despite this, the food and drinks were excellent, though wait times were noticeable due to the high number of visitors.
While beach access was granted, the limited number of available chairs near the water and an abundance of tables on the sand impacted the overall beach experience. On a positive note, I witnessed a thoughtful gesture as a server assisted a visitor in a wheelchair designed for sand, exemplifying inclusivity.
The two pools in my vicinity were bustling, making it challenging to take a refreshing dip. The beach area, though enjoyable, lacked ample seating, and the few available seats were uncomfortably close to the water, resulting in occasional waves hitting them.
In summary, Mr. Sanchos Beach Club offers a pleasant experience with delicious food and decent service. However, potential overcrowding and a scarcity of beach chairs may require visitors to opt for tables with umbrellas instead of a beachside seat.
Court G (LAEngineer) — Google review
Magnificent beach club. Visited here for a great deal of time from a Carnival cruise. The staff was friendly and professional as we made it through the check-in process and throughout the visit. We were assigned our own server(s) (Sergio and Alex) for the duration of the visit. It's all-inclusive and there's a select menu of food and drinks to choose from. The beach here is really clean and the water is crystal clear. It has multiple pools, spa services (costs extra), locker rental, and several different attractions (ATV, horseback riding, water park area with inflatables, kayaking, parasailing, jet skis and more. All attractions cost extra and are reasonably priced. If I visit Cozumel again, I will definitely spend time at Mr. Sanchos Beach Club.
Emmy K (Emm) — Google review
$60 person for the day, and a $17 taxi ride to get there from the Carnival port. All you can eat and drink from their tasty menu, and the waiter assigned to you will bring you everything. Sit under a thatched roof umbrella, lounge on a beach chair, or hang out in the pool (2, one adult only) with the swim up bars. Bathrooms are constantly cleaned. There are a few vendors, but no one pestered us. Massages are extra $. Go online and reserve for just $5.
Neil B (Ninja Neil) — Google review
This place is amazing. The beach is caribbean bliss and they have great pools with swim up bars and a DJ. One of the pools is adult only. The service is top quality. Pops was our waiter and he was great!! I barely had to lift a finger. All the food was good and as much as you want. I can't believe this place was such a good price for what it was. I will definitely be back. We still need a picture with the mariachi band! 😂
Kelly — Google review
Definitely make reservations in advance. Great service and the food and drinks are excellent. Try the coconut shrimp! There is an adult-only pool with a swim-up bar. The pools got a bit filthy by the end of the day. Don't wait until 4 to do your shopping, all the shops close before then because the cruise ships have left. It was great to be there when they opened before the cruise ships where in port. I'd suggest planning your trip based on the cruise ship schedule. Great massages! The ocean was beautiful!
Lora Boller — Google review
We recently visited Mr Sanchos and loved it! Staff was very friendly and very attentive. We were just looking for a beach day and it was wonderful! Can’t beat the price for all you can eat and drink, plus the beautiful blue waters! Thank you Mr Sanchos!
Carolyn Fuller — Google review
We went on Friday, September 1st, 2023. It was all that we expected and more!! All inclusive food and drinks. We reserved online to make sure we had a spot, and I'm glad we did. That place got busy. We also brought our own snorkel masks, and that was the best thing to do, in my opinion. They do sell snorkel masks there if you need to purchase one. We did canoeing with a 10.00 deposit that we got back when we brought the canoe back. My son did the jet ski and had a blast. There is so much to do here!! Very safe, I never felt worried at all. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Carrie Lynn — Google review
We had an amazing day at Mr. Sanchos! Our waiter, Hector, was awesome. The drinks were good as well. My son liked the waterpark. The floats are hard to get on. There was so much going on that I did not have enough time to enjoy everything. This place offers so much. I definitely want to go back!
Kristen Alley — Google review
We stopped by Mr Sancho’s during our cruise stop in Cozumel, Mexico. I’m glad we did. We enjoyed it a lot and the drinks were amazing. As soon as we arrived we were greeted by several people. The servers are very attentive and make sure food and drinks are always in your hand. We had a few servers but Eider really took time to make sure we were good at all times. I highly recommend coming here. We will definitely try to make it back in the future.
Armando Garcia — Google review
Mr Sanchos is a MUST if you're ever visiting cozumel. Whether you're on a cruise (especially if you're on a cruise) or if you're in cozumel for whatever reason. It's a fulfilled, warm, beautiful activity filled location. Also, let me not forget the food. There's so much of it. I plaid the all inclusive day pass and I think it was more than worth it. All the drinks and food we could eat. We got the massage and even went on d banana boat. Soooooo much fun. Food was good, drinks were as expected but servers were attentive and very nice. I loved my experience at this location. So many things to do. They had swim up pool bars that I didn't even get the chnace to try. I definitely will return. 10/10 for Mr Sanchos. My family and I (22 of us, loved spending the day here). I would recommend.
Davion Ferguson — Google review
I want to give it 5 stars purely on the service we received. Edgar found us around the resort and made sure the adults and children always had a drink and food if needed. Fantastic service. The drinks had good flavors but were not strong at all. I had 17 drinks that day and left almost sober. Idk if they water them down to stretch the bottles or what. Weather was too rough for the kids to use the Aquatic Park that day. It was shut down. But had fun none the less.
brandon stigler — Google review
We did the suite upgrade for the day and it was awesome! We were treated like royalty and they made it a special day for my wife's birthday!
The suite was large, had great A/C, huge shower with all drinks and food included. The staff was fantastic, weren't pushy but attentive. We were there from 8 AM to 6 PM to take full advantage of the suite. We didn't know it, but you can even stay overnight!
If/when we come back to Cozumel, we'll be back to Mr. Sancho's! Special thanks to Salvador and his crew!
Izac Adams — Google review
this place was so much fun. everyone was so nice and very respectful. i wanna give my favorite person pops/eric some recognition because he was the best person i met on this trip. he watched all of our stuff and engaged in our conversations with him. he is so sweet and i hope to see him again next time. tell pops savanna says hi!!🫶
savanna huebner — Google review
Me and my group friends was there 2 day ago. It was fantastic, fun, all you can eat and drinks included. Nice beach and water super clean. I want to thank you for Leo (Leonardo) he is amazing, friendly great service. Highly recommended.
Pinky Goodson — Google review
Beautiful all-inclusive beach club! Our waiter was amazing! Food was delicious and atmosphere was perfect! There were several activities available on the property from shopping to adventures to holding animals to live music to spas!
We had a great time! Would definitely go back and recommend to anyone interested in visiting Cozumel! It was a whole vibe!
Barbara McKinnie — Google review
We were on a Fury Catamaran excursion through our cruise line that took us to the beach club. Our family ranged in age from 7 to 70 and all of us had great fun! The beach was great, with fun inflatable slides and climbing toys. There were plenty of loungers for those who wanted them. The included margaritas and beers were free-flowing and passable. The only downside was that the kayaks were not in particularly good order and were not ready for easy use.
David Day — Google review
What an amazing experience! My first cruise and visit to Cozumel, Mexico. Mr. Sancho’s was delightful with outstanding customer service. Ask for Manuel aka “Tabasco” to serve you at the reservation and private table. Food is tasty and unlimited; the ocean is delightful and peaceful. Plenty to do; visit their website for more information. I will definitely be back! 🛳️🛳️🏝️👸🏽🙌🏾❤️💯✅
Loretta Walls — Google review
We had reservations for this place while our cruise was docked. With the reservations we got right in and we did the all inclusive so unlimited food and drinks. Everything was great and the service was excellent. I was not a fan of the salsa it tasted kinda like tomato sauce and the cheese dip was the kind they have at gas stations but other than that we loved it. There are ALOT of seats and tables so it’s kinda crowded but it was beautiful and the bathrooms were so clean!! We really enjoyed this place and if we ever travel here again we will be back!!
ABBY STONE — Google review
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4.5
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Carr. Costera Sur Km. 15, 77600 Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
Playa Palancar is a local beach with a relaxed atmosphere and a thatch-covered eatery. It has soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and sufficient facilities for comfort. Located just 20 minutes from the port, it provides seclusion while being easily accessible. The beach's main attraction is Palancar Gardens coral reef, which is one of the island's impressive and accessible diving spots.
My daughter and I were directed here during our cruise. There were 5 ships in port and when we got here, we were the 4th and 5th person here. I cannot even begin to describe the beauty and serene was!! The water is clear and beautiful! The staff was so so friendly and eager to please! This is truly a hidden gem and I highly recommend it to keep away from the tourist traps!! You can bet that this will be my go-to when I’m there again!! They asked us to pay $13 for the chairs and umbrella and to buy 2 drinks! Heck yeah!! Drinks were so good and we bought delicious food too! The coatimundis are super cute too!
E D — Google review
Very mixed on how I feel about here. First, from port of Cozumel, a taxi is $25 each way. Be sure to arrange a pick up time with your driver as this location is about 20 min away.
Pros. Inexpensive rentals. $10 for comfy chairs and umbrella. Beautiful view! Not overcrowded. I order chips, Guac, and salsa and it was so good!
Cons. I actually was weirded out by the amount of raccoons. I saw up to 15 and I also saw cats on the table. It made me question what the kitchen area was like. The beach is very rocky. I would suggest water shoes.
Jessica Speas — Google review
Best beach on the island. Food is good and It is not overpriced. Lots of wildlife walking around. Excellent trips to el Cielo from here. I love it and it’s quiet not a lot of kids.
Beautiful clear water and white sugary sand how can you not love that?
Only complaint is the road you come in on needs repair
Susan Torregrossa — Google review
Nice sandy beach, which means no fish to see. Rental for 2 chairs plus one umbrella is now $12. As someone else previously mentioned, the parking attendant asked us for tips before we even entered the facility. Who asks for tips before service! We told him "later", and we did tip him a couple dollars. This place wasn't really our destination in our bike trip, but it seemed a good stop after biking 12 miles for 70 minutes. We spent an hour here and biked an hour back to our cruise ship.
Minh Nguyen — Google review
They now charge $20 per person like everybody else does. When I asked they said new managers. I think it's a shame, because last time we spent well over $200 between 5 of us. I know not everyone does the same, but at least include some chairs or something for $20 per person.
Mark Hannah — Google review
Best beach in Cozumel! Water is clear and turquoise. Loved it! Food was delicious! From city centre to here only 300 pesos and there are always taxi around, way back we share it and way back was 400 pesos. Food was affordable, shrimp fajita was fresh. Pina colado is recommended! Not very crowded you need to spend 400 pesos inside, 150pesos for sunbed and sunblinds and you can pay with credit card.
Volkan Yılmaz — Google review
Free table on the beach if you order some food or drinks! We really loved seeing the animals here: raccoons, some other raccoon-like thing and peacock. They go around asking for food but are really cute and not a nuisance. Server was really nice and we got snorkelling tour for 30 usd
Alena Sukhina — Google review
We spent a day here while on a cruise. Perfect white sand beach with crystalline green water. We paid $10 for an umbrella, there was no entry charge. Nice service. Much better experience than paying for an expensive all-inclusive entry in the neighboring beach clubes.
M?rcio — Google review
The beach was beautiful, the water was completely clear, and the prices were excellent. It was pretty laid back and grabbing some front row seats to the ocean with an umbrella was easy (on a Thursday in September). Getting a cab to and from the spot was also easy — I would also recommend to friends that do not speak Spanish. There are no fish for snorkeling here. We took the ferry to Cozumel, spent half the day snorkeling at money bar, and spent the other half enjoying the beautiful beach and water here. It was great!
Zachariah Muhlenkamp — Google review
Wonderful experience. Definitely more waves than the other beaches on the west side of Cozumel. Good customer service. They do charge $20 PP but they’re at least not too pushy about you also needing to get food. The Cozumel raccoons that play under the deck are so cute. I think kids would love this!
Christina Krewson — Google review
Beatiful beach with crystal clear water.
Entry is free but you need to order stuff from the restaurant (at least 10$ per person). We ordered some food and it was good.
The parking guy asks for tip, and the beds cost extra.
Other then that it was really great.
Shirly Niego — Google review
This was a great spot. Especially if you want to avoid all the other BS of the other beach clubs. We came off the cruise ship and took a taxi to downtown Cozumel. Rented a scooter/moped and ended up at this spot after checking several others. Beautiful beach. Beautiful water. They have a few guys who guard the mopeds so I had no problem tipping them upon arrival. Paid $12 for two chairs and an umbrella. Aside from that, all we had to pay for was the drinks and food we consumed during our visit. Will definitely visit again on our next visit.
Wesley Leonhardt — Google review
The beach has not public access, you have to pay for all and the employees are very abusive with the prices, you must to consume to stay. We have seen the locals are racist with his people and other mexicans.
The beach is quiet and little deep, in the season that we were, there was many seaweeds on the beach's shoreline. Almost there aren't marine life for to do snorkeling, is much better Playa Azul, where there are many colorful fishes and reef, in north of the same island but is expensive also.
German Zarate — Google review
!!!BE AWARE!!! The beach was great and there were no complaints about the service until we asked for our check. There are a ton of pygmy raccoons, so be aware of unattended food (they are persistent). Our server wrote down the total in USD and it was $50 more than what the actual total was. Our bill was 2,517 pesos and he said he incorrectly wrote down the total ($205 vs $157 lol) and was insistent I pay quickly and included a 20% tip. I left a 10% tip and will not be attending this beach on our next trip. I don't appreciate trying to be taken advantage of due to our kindness. Be sure to check the receipt and convert to USD if that's how you're paying. They use 16 pesos to $1 USD.
Daniel Bosco — Google review
Wow. Not for me. We drove here and parked the car and were instantly being asked for tips from a man standing at our car door saying the parking lot is free but that we should tip him. Mind you, we parked our own car.
After that we walked to the entry where we were told that it was $20 usd per person. The $20 gets you entry, a welcome drink and a beach chair. We were told the money is not applied towards food/drinks and that those would be extra $.
I asked to walk inside to see if the entry fee was worth it. There were 4 other people inside. This was at 2pm Tuesday 12/19.
We left. Save your money.
Yal-Ku Cenote, also known as Cenote Akumal, is a large and shallow cenote located close to the sea, giving it the feel of an inlet rather than a traditional cenote. It's a popular spot for snorkeling due to its clear waters and abundant marine life, including fish and sea turtles. The lagoon offers paths and benches for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
PLEASE READ: You do not have to pay to access the cenote. You can walk in for free from the west side (must drive by car on the freeway) or you can swim in from the sea. Just wanted to make that clear.
This place charges a $300 pesos (or $14USD) fee to enter the lagoon from their property. We paid for it and it was worth the price for us. The amount of fish you see is INCREDIBLE! Big parrot fish munching on coral, electric blue fish, so many I don't have a name for. The best fish can be seen right where you get in the water, at the south tip.
We did not need life vests, you float just fine in the ocean water. Kids and those who tire while swimming should consider them though.
Bring a sun shirt to swim in and wear (no sunscreen is allowed in the cenote- ouch!). Wear very good sandals if you want to walk around at all, the ground is broken lava rock with really cool fossils everywhere you look.
I recommend swimming out to the north side, there's a sandy beach you can hang out on, and way fewer people so you can get those beautiful shots of nature. You can also access that side of the cenote by taking the private property trail I mentioned above :)
Jolee Evans — Google review
If you are looking for lots of fish and a variety of fish? Plus snorkelling in a safe environment? This is the place to go. We went twice during our trip because the access is so easy and we got to see more fish here than we normally see elsewhere. Best moment was being surrounded by a school of sardines. Just crazy!!!
The staff is very friendly and this the smaller, locally owned operation. $300 MXN per adult.
Freda Piskorik — Google review
Great place to snorkel with salt water fishes and other sea creatures! We loved it! Although it was rainy, it wasn't uncomfortable and it added to the experience in my opinion. It's a deep swim, so if you are not a strong swimmer, better take a life jacket instead of a life vest. Don't disturb the fishes please.
Hector Sanchez — Google review
My 17 year old daughter and I enjoyed the lagoon. Many fish, and great mangrove overhang to see huge schools of sardines. The corals are really no longer alive due to the volume of people that has been in this section of the coast, but the mix of salt and fresh waters still attracts a huge variety of fish. If you are new to snorkeling or new to visiting the Yucatan than this definitely is a great location to start in.
Michael Esakov — Google review
Our group had such a good time! Especially love how fun the zip line helpers are! The gentleman who took us through the caves was very funny. The whole experience was great! Definitely visit if you vacation nearby! Also, I love that they are an animal sanctuary!
Julie Krische Albin — Google review
Very clear, refreshing water. Snorkeling here was a great intro to the activity, but not much to see here underwater. The beauty is the cave itself.
Courtney Chanette — Google review
Clean, safe and very cool spot for snorkeling in Tulum! You will see a ton of fish and even a turtle or two.
This was a nice first stop on a day long cenote tour. Worth the visit
Diana Arena-Morris — Google review
This is a great place to visit. The lagoon is beautiful and full of fish. We visited it without a guided tour and I would recommend not to book a tour. You can easily get here by Taxi which is way cheaper and also the entrance fee is lower than what you have to pay in a guided tour.
Dimitri Sivolap — Google review
We booked through our hotel it was expensive and it was an okay experience. I’d definitely wouldn’t go back since it wasn’t enjoyable. When we went the water was murky not at all as you see in the catalog. We were rushed by the tour guide, didn’t enjoy it as much. I think it would’ve been more enjoyable had we been able to spend more time where the fishes were rather than swimming to murkier waters where there was like only 2 fishes.
CENOTE:
it was beautiful, however I was told to buy a waterproof case in advance by the hotel concierge so we could take our own photos in the water however we got told at the cenotes that we had to pay and they would take the pictures. Cenotes I would definitely do again. It is freezing water but it is always a great experience. Just feels rushed since there’s tour after tour waiting.
Mariela Santamaria — Google review
Great spot for easy snorkelling with lots of different fish. We used the entrance where you could take your own gear. The other entrance you had to hire a life vest. Not much shade unless you walked back towards the entrance.
Ian Dixon — Google review
Beautiful! We swam for a little in the lagoon. Tip: go early, right when it opens, so it’s less busy and the water isn’t cloudy. There are also hammocks to rest in, and wildlife such as cute wombat-looking creatures (quokkas??) and lizards! Life vests are also available to rent.
Aya EZ — Google review
A must visit lagoon to snorkel and see a lot of fish and maybe even turtles (if you are lucky).
The place is beautiful and the price to get in is good if you go directly there without buying a tour.
You will find several people, as they take groups from tours, but you can happily swim around a d see the amazing fish
Perfect to take Instagram pictures and short reels.
Bring snorkel equipment and water camera.
Myrna Villanueva — Google review
First recommendation is go there early. It gets very busy after 11 am. Tours start bringing people in and it is not big enough to accommodate everyone. There was traffic jam in it towards the end. All you need 1-1.5 hours in total to see some fishes and do snorkeling. After that it becomes repetitive in my opinion. There are no turtles but fishes. You can take your own life vest, fins, GoPro, snorkel set etc. or rent it from them. It costs $17 USD per person.
Mehmet Aygun — Google review
In the morning when we got there, it was beautiful and we saw hundreds of fish. It's a beautiful lagoon with hammocks to rest in the shade along the trails, a quaint restaurant to stop in, showerz, locker to rent, beautifully maintained vegetation and jungles.
Jolane Sundstrom — Google review
It was an amazing trip! The ruins, cenoté, and the lagoon snorkeling! All of it was a blast. Jarrod the guide was very informative and had a fun/great personality!
Alfred Herren — Google review
Great snorkeling spot! Lots of colorful fish with very clear visibility. Like another reviewer said, you can observe the halocline effect which is where fresh water and salt water become mixed and cause a distortion, very neat! It was 300 pesos to enter and 100 pesos for gear rentals. There are showers, bathrooms, and lockers available.
Playa Akumal is a well-known public beach with fantastic tourist amenities that offers visitors the opportunity to snorkel and swim with various species of sea turtles. The beach's coral reefs provide natural protection, creating a beautiful bay that serves as an ideal location for swimming. This unique beach is a favorite spot for different types of sea turtles due to its natural characteristics.
Stunning beach, here we swam with the turtles and manta ray!!! The cost is very reasonable for entry and the tours too, absolute must do especially for younger children as your within an enclosed area so much safer than heading out by boat to a reef
Ben King — Google review
There’s a parking lot nearby that you can pay for the day, or if you drive closer to the entrance you pay per hour. (I would recommend the lot that is for the day) A beautiful beach with a restaurant nearby and you can rent chairs if you’d like. Cost 120 pesos per person for the entry fee. Beware that every person will try to sell you on the snorkelling gear and tours to see the turtles, but you can bring your own stuff and swim along the borders in the water (they have areas marked off where you have to pay to swim) We didn’t see any turtles when we went but we saw some cool fish. They have nice bathrooms there.
Julaine Huard — Google review
It is not a public beach but a national park so the entrance fee is 120 peso per person. Plus you need to pay for parking 50 pesos all day or 20 peso per hour. If you enter through the restaurant Lol Ha, the entrance is free, but you need to consume there.
The facilities are great, toilet, lockers and shower. You can buy snorkeling with turtles for extra fee, there are a lot of people offering this service. We didn't like it because they emphasize the importance of conserving nature and the turtles, still if you pay, they will take groups of dozens of people to see them.
Now the beach is moderately full with sargasso. If you walk 100 meters towards the hotel, you can put your towel on the sand, it is much cleaner.
Nikoletta Szabo — Google review
Good spot for snorkeling but not via the paid tour. If you join one of the paid ones, you'll be crammed with a lot of folks in a small area which ruins the whole experience.
My recommendation - bring your own mask and swim to the buoys. Then keep swimming south along the rope. You have good chance to see rays, tortoises and schools of fish. The area in front of the resorts south from the beach has coral reefs close to the shore with lots of fish next to them.
The paid snorkeling tours in my mind ruin the whole experience.
Steve Zamek — Google review
Drive all the way inside, park on the Happy Turtle parking, it's also $100 pesos, just like the ones on the entrance. But here the walk is minimal.
Bring your own picnic, beach towels, just no glass containers. Restaurant with touristy prices is available.
Don't hire the guides on the entrance. Big companies. Pay your entrance on the ticket office to this National Park.
Once inside enjoy the clean dressing rooms, bathrooms and showers. Hire the local independent guides to swim with the turtles. $600 pesos. Please only apply SPF until after you finish your tour. Help protect the turtles.
Pro tip from my guide. Get there at 4pm. Take the tour. At that time most of the crowds are gone, and many more turtles come back to hang out.
Jorge Aguilar — Google review
120 pesos per person for entry . If you want to see turtles ok then go to Akumal . If you want a quiet beach avoid this one . We literally had people one foot away on left and two feet away on right and about 1000 people on the beach . Yes you do see some fish off the shore as you get in but there are many more beautiful beaches than this one . If you go bring water shoes as dead hard coral if about 5 feet from shoreline ouch . March. 4, 2022
Bertha Figueroa — Google review
Very beautiful beach!
I liked how they try to preserve the nature and still let you snorkel around.
We got to see a few turtles very closely and it was amazing!
Don't buy tickets of the guys standind on the road, they will get you the same service you can get by yourself for more money.
Tom Tsausho — Google review
Public beach with a few restaurants and shops.
Quaint area with small shops, restaurants and dive shops. Unfortunately everything is overpriced.
We wanted to have a drink at the beach bar/restaurant but they were charging $8CAD a beer. Food was overpriced too.
Checked out the souvenirs shops and a small wall 3D picture box was $50CAD.
It’s too bad they are gouging the tourists - that’s why the restaurants are empty.
Mikica J — Google review
Amazing snorkeling experience. You need to go on a tour to actually have a chance to see turtles and stingrays. We paid 400 pesos each for a private tour. Only get the tours at the beach, not before the entrance or at the car park. Tell those guides that you're only going to swim and not see turtles, otherwise they will try very hard to convince you and waste your time.
Make sure to drive to the end to park at the official parking lot and to save walking. There is one car park for 40 pesos per hour or 100 pesos for a full day. I carried on driving and found free parking.
Make sure to ask different tour guides as some were going to charge 650 pesos and that would be with a group! The tours give you money back if you don't see any turtles, but you're pretty guaranteed to see them. Try and go early, before 10am.
Entrance to the beach costs 120 pesos each.
Masud Anwar — Google review
Lots turtles in the water. We snorkled not even 10 minutes before spotting the first turtle. We also saw a couple of stingrays and fishes. You can rent snorkel gears and have a guide for your group for $ 20 US per person.
Jihye Bajkor — Google review
We visited here with an Airbnb snorkeling tour. You need to pay an entrance fee otherwise. Lockers are free to rent but require a 100 pesos deposit.
We saw a ton of turtles, sting ray and various fish! The beach vibe is super nice and the water is beautiful!
Anna He — Google review
We had such a great time with a beautiful and clean beach. Snorkeling with a turtle is a must activity to do!
Deelada Kasa — Google review
Stunning strip of beach. Unfortunately in the last few years has been hugely commercialised. Local rates are cheaper for those that can speak Spanish. Car park right outside the entrance to the beach so don’t stop until you get to the end as a LOT of locals will try to make you park in their car park, and even present themselves as officials to make you stop.
We paid for a local guide to take us around a set route, we got snorkel and goggle hire as well as life jackets.
Make sure to put sun tan lotion on at least an hour before arriving as you are not allowed to put it on fresh as it leaches into the water and affects the wildlife.
There are lockers available and I would recommend using them if you are going to leave any belongings unattended for any length of time.
A level of fitness is required to snorkel as sea currents and general swimming is tiring.
Robbie Torres-Howarth — Google review
I personally did not go on this tour but my wife did and she loved it. She doesn't even know how to swim but the guide took great care of her. We told him that my wife doesn't swim and he use a life ring to pull her along. He was telling her when to put her face into the water to see the turtles and fish.
For me, I sat at the Lol Ha restaurant with a Pina Colada and waited for her. We have no picture of anything under water but there's no shortage of those pictures from other reviewers. I do have a few from my activity though and I'll share those.
Kit Cheng — Google review
I swam with the turtles here.
Go early. I went in low season (early September 2023) and arrived before they even open. The car path to Akumal Beach is chained off with a guy guarding it. You should say that you're doing a tour with the Akumal Dive Centre (the Akumal Dive Shop is a different place). THEN you can drive in and access the parking lot that's right next to the beach.
Akumal Dive Centre opens at 8am. Keep that in mind for your travel time.
If you want to go for a tour to swim with the sea turtles, Akumal Dive Centre sells them for 700 MXN. You get a locker rental, life jacket, snorkel gear, and then they take you on a one-minute boat ride out with a guide for a small group of people.
During the tour, you can't take anything with you - leave everything in the locker, and the key to the locker you'll hang right by the central desk. No sunscreen of any kind allowed so buy a rash guard / sun shirt.
However, you can also just swim out to see the turtles for FREE without paying for anything once you know what you're doing. You can simply go to the end of the line of boats on the beach, use the anchor chains to move up and you'll come across white buoys that demarcate the area that you're allowed to swim up to WITHOUT a life jacket. I have done this after the tour and still found a couple of sea turtles that swam in past the border.
If you go over the white buoys, you're required to have a life jacket. The dive centre rents them out for less price than a tour. Then all you have to do is see where the people are bobbing in the sea together - most likely they're looking at a turtle. Just go swim up to that area.
Otherwise if you go later in the day, especially in high season, other tourists will have kicked up the sand and drastically lower visibility of the turtles.
When you get hungry, I recommend going to eat at La Buena Vida or La Lunita - about 5 minutes drive up the road into Bahia De La Media Luna (Half Moon Bay).
Leemarc Lao — Google review
This is such a lovely place to go snorkeling. GO EARLY! We were one of the first groups out and we saw 6 sea turtles, a pufferfish, some rays, chocolate sea stars, some coral, and various tropical fish like blue tang. By the time we got back to shore at around 9:30, the beach was packed.
Jessica Pan — Google review
You need to pay 100 pesos to get into the beach (they got different prices for nationals, you can pay by card too), and if you have a car or scooter parking is paid as well (200 pesos for a car, all day). The beach is beautiful but throughout the day there's an incredible amount of tours to go see the turtles so there's dozens of groups of people passing by at all times, and when you look at the ocean you can see hundreds of people at any point floating doing those tours (and we were not even in the "high season"), so if you want a quiet and chill place, this is not it. There's also a lot of tour operators at the entrance trying to get you to sign up for one, feels like the beach is being over exploited. Photos/videos were taken after 5pm when activity was almost over for the day.
Jose Rossi — Google review
Amazing experience seeing turtles and stingrays! Would highly recommend it. You do have to pay for parking and an entrance fee to the beach. We went on a private snorkelling tour for 400 pesos each. The tour guide was wonderful. I would recommend asking around about the price of the tours to find the cheapest one.
Siama Begum — Google review
Very nice beach. The challenge I found was that there are boats all along the beach. It makes it commercial and not bearing in mind what’s best for people coming to enjoy the beach and swimming. The other issue I had was the monopoly over snorkelling business and the rule that you have to pay to a guide to be able to snorkel and enjoy the turtles. Unless they were lying to me in order to lure me into paying a guide!! A Very misleading situation.
Ghassan Shamseddine — Google review
nice beach but got rocks here and there so the entry is a bit rocky.
Parking costs 100 per day (there are several spots, drive as close to the beach as you can). avoid parking at 40/hour unless you really intend to eat there or stay an actual hour
Get some snorkeling 🤿 before you come! Saw a 🐢!!
Illya Stepanskyy — Google review
The beach is a lovely spot and costs 120 pesos to enter. A car park is nearby with plenty of spaces and costs 40 pesos an hour. The beach itself has a reasonable amount of shade with palm trees.
If you want to see the turtles, you will have to pay for a guide to take you out there (as they have sectioned off the water so that you can only go out to the main areas where turtles are if you pay a guide unfortunately!). There are still areas to swim in but the water is quite stirred up with sand due to all the boats and swimmers and there are not so many fish to see. However, if you are lucky the occasional turtle does make an appearance closer to the beach outside of the guide only swim Zones.
If it weren't for the guide only swim zones, I would have given the beach 5 stars. I think it is a shame that they make you pay to go on the beach and then have to get hassled and haggle with various guides just to swim in the good areas. The guides typically cost between 400-600 pesos from what gathered there and you will have to wear jacket to do this.
Victoria Bentley — Google review
I was expecting better. I didn't get a chance to go out and snorkel and see the turtles unfortunately. The water was not clear and there were a lot of rocks which I cut myself on. Plus side, There is a life guard with first aid who cleaned it with alcohol and provided 2 Band-Aids. Mostly tours come here to snorkel with groups of tourists. There is a $7 charge to enter the park. Showers, bathroom and a locker in included. $100pesos for parking. It used to be a free public beach. Would not come back
Rob A — Google review
It’s crowded and chaos when we drive over there. People on the road side want to stop your vehicle to get your business. The access to the beach is US$7 for foreigners. We paid $40 each person to get a guide for turtles view. If you want to go on your own, you need rent life jacket, which is mandatory to swim to see turtles. Turtles are not far from shore (50meters). The park lot is private and charged $100MX.
Aktun Chen is a picturesque rainforest park boasting an underground river for swimming, opportunities for cave exploration and a thrilling zipline experience. One of its main attractions is the stunning cenote, featuring natural formations of stalagmites and stalactites that have been shaped by the flow of water over thousands of years. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the caverns, estimated to be around 5-million years old.
Great excursion just across from Bahia Principe resort. Getting there: The dirt road parallel to the freeway on the west side is not a great option for walkers, mud puddles that are difficult to go around, but we made it. They pick you up at the entrance just north of the gas station on the west side of the freeway and shuttle you to two points along a rough dirt road. First is the check in and small zoo. Next they shuttle you up to the cenote. Plan on about 45 minutes to an hour once in the cenote. Great service as they shuttled us back to the traffic circle on the east side of the bridge at Bahia Principe!
Michael Toland — Google review
In my opinion, the most beautiful cenote around. we definitely recommend taking a taxi for the visit, because it is located deep in the jungle. The entrance fee includes a life jacket and diving goggles. All things can be stored in safety lockers. Of course, the water is a little colder, but you can bear it :) it's worth it for the wonderful view. The water is crystal clear. You can swim through the whole cave and, as a surprise, there are large numbers of catfish living here! For myself, I would recommend a phone and a waterproof cover, there is not enough light for the Gopro. Really perfect place that I highly recommend!
Karolina Be — Google review
Be prepared to drive on a narrow dusty dirt road deep into the woods. Once you get there, there are zip lines, a walkthrough cave system (aka dry cave), and a beautiful cenote. Well worth the admission and the drive.
Paul STice — Google review
Absolutely mind blowing! Beautiful cave and cenote. Had a blast ziplining as well! If you do visit, please don't wear sunblock as you won't need it in the jungle/cave/cenote and it's very bad for the cenote Water. Do not touch the cave/cenote walls or roof. Totally worth the drive and money! It has been our best experience in the Cancun area.
elgoog — Google review
WOW! Such a unique experience. Having never been to a cenoté I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’d compare it to a natural spring in Florida. The water was cold at first but the body acclimated fast. Lots of stalactites above you and stalagmites under the water. With the crystal clear water you can see anything light hits.
Travis — Google review
Absolutely amazing!
We bought our tickets online to save time. When you arrive to the gate off the highway, you tell the guard you are there for AktunChen and have tickets. He was very nice and opened the gate. You follow a dirt road pretty far into the jungle, but the road is clearly marked and easy to follow. It was take you to registration office where you check in. The staff are very helpful and nice.
The cave system and Cenote are stunning. This was one of my favorite parts of my vacation. We did the cave tour and the Cenote swim. The cave was very beautiful and our tour guid was good. The only downside was we did not get to see the water filled portion of the cave do to “construction”.
After you finish the cave tour, you drive to the local Cenote (about 10 minutes from the cave). There they have goggles and lockers for you to use. You are taken on a quick 20ish minute tour then you are free to swim as long as you want.
The whole experience felt pretty safe and well put together.
The Cenote was absolutely amazing. If you do one thing here, make it the Cenote. Bring a waterproof camera!!
Brandon Pengelley — Google review
We visited Aktun Chen in November 2023 and had a blast! The tour guides were great: Alfredo, the cave man, was hilarious and made very funny jokes! :D Jose, Alexis and Andreas did an amazing job keeping us safe and engaged during the zip line part of the tour. I also definitely recommend buying photos from them because they are just amazing quality and capture great views!
We loved it so much there that we had to come back the second time for zip lining a few days later!
I definitely recommend this park to everyone with kids as the minimum age is 4 years old for the zip line, which is not scary at all and is very safe.
The park is also a great place for watching monkeys in their natural habitat!!! For free!! If I knew I would have such a great experience watching monkeys here, I wouldn’t go to the Akumal monkey sanctuary as that was a total waste of money because all monkeys were caged:(
Aktun Chen is now one of our favorite parks and we will definitely be back again in the future! Thank you team Aktun Chen for making our experience unique and wonderful!!!
Irina Shubina — Google review
HIDDEN GEM - highly recommend! This was one of the best activities on our trip. All the staff are friendly and welcoming. The facilities are in great condition in gorgeous protected nature. There are no crowds so you get lots of personal attention from the informative and funny guides - especially Jaime. We want to come back for sure. Thanks for a great day!
B Illum — Google review
My first time zip lining and thought the instructions were excellent. The crew was super helpful and friendly. By the end of the course of 10 lines you felt like you had new friends!
The underground swimming was so awesome! The on site photographers did an great job but I felt their fees were a little high.
A great experience overall but don't take my word for it come see for yourself!
Glen Fournier — Google review
This place is gorgeous.... cool park for all ages. In the cenote we saw lots of fish. Outside we saw bats, monkeys, parrots and wild pigs. There was a baby monkey and the mom too.
Heather S — Google review
We decided to have a walk to Aktun Chen as we were staying nearby on the Bahia Principe resort. It's around a 20 minute walk to the entrance from the Coba Lobby or the Hacienda. You can then request a free pickup to take you to the reception as it's around 2km from the entrance (just speak to the security and wait in the little shelter).
We went fairly early on a week day and it was very quiet to start off. We did the cave tour and the cenote swim. Both were fantastic, probably the best ones we've seen in 2 visits to Quintana Roo. We didn't do the zip lines as we'd recently done the Xplor zip lines so I'm not sure what they were like.
I'd highly recommend a visit to this Park though as its great value for money. You can check out the various animals in the rescue centre while waiting between activities and there was no extra charge for this. There were Spider monkeys, a crocodile, tropical birds, snakes, tortoise and a few other animals to view.
The guide for the cave was great, I think his name was Fredo or Alfredo (sorry if I got this wrong).
He gave a fantastic tour and showed us some great sites in the caves as well as explaining a few things above ground too. The caves are huge!
The cenote is gorgeous, crystal clear water and had a fair few fish in there. After a short tour around the cenote we were left to enjoy it on our own.
One of the best things we did in Mexico.
Kelvin Harding — Google review
Beautiful underground river with crystal clear water. Swimming there was very tranquil, fortunately there weren't many people when we arrived so we could enjoy the area in peace and quiet.
Maggie Salak — Google review
Such an amazing experience! We came here while in Mexico for our honeymoon and couldn’t have asked for better! The cenotes and zip lining were a blast and so amazing! For the price, you can’t beat it! We highly recommended to anyone looking for a fun filled day!
Taylor Studyvin — Google review
A great place to explore some caves and experience a cenote. Had a great guide, German, who gave an informative and enjoyable tour of part of the cave system.
The cenote is large and there were not many other people about which made the experience even more memorable
Jose Nunez — Google review
Great experience and worth the price. Dry cave walk is the highlight, almost 40 min of walking underground. Have never experienced something like this. Thanks to Alfredo for amazing tour of cave.
Cenote swim was good also. Quite a large underground swimming area.
We walked her from Bahía resort. Included in our ticket was pickup from gate. They did make us walk a fair bit between the different attractions which was not great. Would be much easier to visit in a car. Spent about 4 hours total
Michael Knox — Google review
We had a wonderful experience. Would highly recommend the combo with zip-line, cave tour, and cenote swimming. Just FYI that it is a bit of a drive off the road to get to the park and then you drive again to get to the cenote, but don’t let that stop you from going!
Melissa Pellman — Google review
Amazing place! We family had a wonderful time today! All the staffs are enthusiastic and professional! Help my 8 years old daughter got her ideal up side down zip line picture! Fully recommend it!
DERONG LI — Google review
Aktun Chen is a must do bucketlist experience. Archeologists estimate the cenote is about 5 million years old. You enter the cenote via stairs and are surrounded by an underground walk, cenote, and river of about 100 meters or 300 feet long with depths of 1 to 10 feet.
I discovered the Cenote from locals in Akumal when I went swimming with the turtles. I came via Collectivo for $2/50 pesos each way from Playa, and when I arrived the guard called the park to arrange a shuttle (its 4km away from the side of the freeway entrance).
As of Sept 2023, I paid $28 with an advance ticket on the Aktun Chen National Park website. The ticket includes a guide for about 30 minutes, and then you are free to experience the Top 10 National Geographic walk and cenote on your own.
I arrived around noon on a Saturday and experienced my tour with three other people. My guide, Rogelio was awesome. He explained the stalagmites and stalactites, bats and catfish in the cave, and helped me with underwater photos and videos.
After our 30 minute tour, I experienced the entire underground river to myself for over an hour. Later, I relaxed in hammocks journaling for an hour or so. I went back to experience the cenote and the friendly bats for over an hour. A group of about five tourists came later.
It is definitely an off the beaten path cenote in Mexico.
Katrina Julia — Google review
Best part of our entire trip to Mexico! The guys who led our zip lining and cave tour were amazing! Pedro made the zip lining experience great! Do not miss out on the cenote here, it is huge and fresh water! Overall, a must do! Buy the photo deal, they take some amazing pictures!
Sarah F — Google review
Fantastic, adventurous park. We did the zip lining cave exploration, and cenote swim. Tour guides were awesome and friendly. Alfredo, Josue and Andrew notably. You can do a la carte or take the entire package and we took the entire package and really enjoyed. Photographers were great also and they give the option to take your own pictures or to purchase. We took her own and purchased also because they were action. Photos of zip lining and priceless. We will be sure to visit again when we come back to Cancun/Playa Del Carmen.
Jim Seriruk — Google review
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Carr. Cancún - Tulum Km 107, 77780 Akumal, Q.R., Mexico
The Zona Arqueológica de Coba offers visitors the opportunity to explore the ancient Mayan city of Cobá, with its well-preserved structures and rich history. One of the highlights is climbing Nohoch Mul, the highest pyramid in the area. Guided tours provide insights into the culture, sacrificial offerings, and historical significance of the site's symbols and natural resources.
Interesting ruins in the jungle. You can rent a bike but it's possible to do it on foot, whole route is no more than 5-6 km. Unfortunately the big pyramid is closed for climbing die to covid restrictions.
Tomek Bogda?ski — Google review
Lovely ruins, it was worth to come I definitely recommend if you’re near by is worth to visit.
We were amazed with the kindness of the guy that took us on the bike, he taught us some words in Mayan and the history of the ruins.
Big ruins there’s plenty of space to go around.
Catarina Alves — Google review
Well this is a very cool place to go visit. The tour we were with had a guide that was connected to the folks there.
Nevertheless was guide was pretty thorough about showing the archaeological site and the history and the significance of the different symbols and obsidian and some of the other natural resources in the area.
Be careful about engaging in any ceremony because it's likely to lead to a consultation where it may cost you a thousand or more dollars upon their recommendation. However just a note that it is just a recommendation you don't have to take the consultation and before you get a full consultation they give you an estimate and you can walk away if you like or go through with it.
DavidC EG — Google review
We regret very much not getting a guide as the places we got to see where fabulous, we did not have the knowledge that of what the are besides the very few information tablets around the area. We were able to get little information from the gentleman that rode us all around the ruins which was very convenient as the ancient city cover a good area. Get a tour guide!
Zacarias Michilinsky — Google review
Very nice place. It's nice that it's almost entirely in the shade, but it's still a walk of about 3-4 km. In this heat, I recommend renting a bike. They offer them for about 150-200 pesos. We didn't and we regretted it. It was possible to miss it, but in that heat it was possible to take it.
Zuzana Vitochova — Google review
Went there June 2023. These ruins are beautiful and literally in the middle of the jungle!!! Many options to view it…you can walk it bout 40min, bike or have a 2 seater umbrella bike with an onsite peddler…only $10 to view….
Michelle Harris — Google review
Definitely worth visiting and not thronged with crowds of people like Chichén Itzá. Not a difficult place to drive to if you are self driving around Mexico. Worth getting a guide and taking the bicycle taxis which will shuttle you around the extensive archeological site
Mathew Taylor — Google review
Really neat place to visit and wasn't too crowded. You can't climb the big tower steps but there are some smaller ones you can get on. This place was very cheap to get in and I would recommend renting a bike. It's not too far to walk but the biking was a fun experience. Bike rental was also cheap. Definitely worth visiting.
Benjamin Burk — Google review
Beautiful place full of history. There are so much details that you could easily spend at least 5 hours to inspect most of the site. You wouldn't have check everything out. One of the most impressive archeological site in the area. Luckily it was not too crowded when we were there in the afternoon.
Also no need to go from the first pyramids to the other with a bike. They will convince you that it is far away but if you are healthy and can walk 20-30 minutes you won't need it.
If you are driving there, it is pretty easy from Valladolid, the road is in great condition and you do not even need a GPS, everything is well indicated. Parking was 80 pesos.
Rob — Google review
Mayan culture is very interesting. Coba has some very old temple's, walls and other buildings. I would recommend walking to the larger pyramid and taking the tricycle back- don't forget to tip your cyclist!
Mike Coe — Google review
Lucky me - I visited the spot back in 2019 when climbing the pyramids was still allowed (meanwhile it‘s prohibited). Very impressive archeological site on extended grounds in the middle of the jungle. You can easily get around by rental bike or walk. Make sure to come as early in the morning as you can - the later the more people.
ed da — Google review
One of the oldest Mayans settlements still in existence and has the tallest pyramid in Latin America. Nohoch Mul sits way above the trees and given how flat Tulum is you can really see from miles making it an excellent guard post and temple for the ancients. In 2021, and earlier, it was possible to actually physically climb up this temple but now you can just view it, which was a bit disappointing. We visited the site with a tour so we did not pay the entry fee. It was part of our tour ticket. There is an area in the front that sells gifts, water, and food right near the large parking lot. At the entrance you can rent bikes or a two person rickshaw driven by a Mayan local, which is free, but we tipped them a lot for all of their hard work. The site is very large and spread out, so it really was nice to have wheels to get around otherwise it will be quite a walk.
This site is much older than Chichen Itza and was most likely abandoned due to infighting, deforestation, and drought. You can see a few small scale Mayan ball court here, but obviously the largest version is over in Chichen Itza. It’s really humbling to see how great of engineers and architects the ancient Mayans were and being able to physically walk on site is truly a memorable experience. I would definitely recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and water. We did not deal with any insects during our visit, but it was about 95° out in Fahrenheit so it was extremely toasty given the humidity.
Overall, this is a must visit site when in Tulum, especially if you have any interest in Mayan history. This was the oldest and first Mayan settlement, so it’s very important to see where a civilization started to really understand it. I would recommend to anyone and feel that it is a great place to visit for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Zan Lee — Google review
Really nice shady place to visit and walk. We drive here from Tulúm, which was an easy drive. We paid for parking and then the tickets to enter required two payments. Kind of confusing but expected having read other reviews. We did not hire a guide or a bicycle. We walked to all the ruins and spent about 2 hours exploring the site. So impressive. I enjoyed being out in nature.
Andria Martin — Google review
Nice ruins that are almost entirely hidden in the forest. During our visit there were minimal people, it was possible to enjoy some places almost alone. As always there is a separate charge for parking, entrance and government fee. The main pyramid is the biggest attraction, but Grupo Macanxoc is also worth a visit for the inscribed stones.
It is possible to rent bicycles, but we did without them - it takes about 6.5 km to visit all the sites and thus takes two to three hours. There is no place to buy water in the area itself, so have plenty of it with you.
Jakub Chramosta — Google review
I paid for the bike taxi service. It was a good price, but honestly, even as a pregnant woman with asthma who had forgotten my inhaler, even I could have ridden a bike by myself the whole way as it was completely flat. I would recommend just renting their bikes, which is also a very good price. The ruins were really cool to see. It includes huts and stone buildings. There was even a tunnel and a court that was used to play ball games. One important thing is that if you rent something from them, you can only pay with cash and not with a card. There is a public restroom right outside that you need to use before you pay to enter or after you leave.
Savannah Warren — Google review
Got a tour and highly recommend it. There aren’t much in the way of signs/info. So if you want to really learn about the history and culture a guide is the way. Otherwise it was a pretty cool place to explore. Tons of shade and enjoyed biking. Since Covid you aren’t allowed to hike up the big ruin, but there were others you can walk on to get up close and see the architecture of it all.
Parker Moses — Google review
Amazing archeological site. Not many people around. The ruins are in the middle of the jungle so even on a hot sunny day you are in the trees shade. There are 2 main areas and they are about 1km away from each other. You can easily walk the whole site which would take under 2 hours. You can also either rent bikes or hire a taxi-bike
Nikko — Google review
Highly recommend getting a tour guide and renting a bike or a bike cart for this archeological site, there’s a lot to learn and no signs or pamphlets if you don’t go with a guide. There’s a bathroom and some stores at the entrance but none inside the site. Wear comfortable apparel and shoes.
Descent through a cave to an underground swimming hole popular for snorkeling & jumping from rocks.
Nice cenote with really deep water. It's almost uncomfortable to swim above the depth sometimes, even though you can still almost see the bottom - or maybe that's why :) It's one of the bigger ones, so it's very easy to swim in. What's unique about it are the two jumping platforms from which you can dive into the water. However, being wimps, we didn't jump in.
There are very few people in it, we were alone most of the time, so you can fully enjoy the majesty of the cave. Entrance was still 100 pesos and vests were optional.
Jakub Chramosta — Google review
Fun cave cenote. Entrance fee is 100 pesos per person. Worth it I think! It’s dark inside but with the artificial light you can see something. Not that many stalactites and such, but they have two places to jump down into the water (both are quite high).
Tanja Swinkels — Google review
I was genuinely scared because this place feels very spooky but after 30 min or so, I started loving it. Super calm and quiet Cenote, we were mostly alone (1 other couples) however when tour bus arrives , it gets super crowded. Shower and toilet in place but no lockers. The entrance is 100 MXP and if you want life jackets that is 50 pesos extra.
mahoor rz — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous! Crystal clear water and fishes galore. 2 diving spots at 15ft and 30ft. Steep stairs. Recommend to take a dry bag, towels and water shoes.
Nathalie Ramirez — Google review
The Cenote is beautiful inside, water has a 4 mt. depht and has a temperature of around 17°C.
Life jackets are not mandatory but I think they should because you can easily fall in the water.
There is a small and narrow ladder and down in the Cenote the space is limited.
Sara Casarin — Google review
This was our favourite of the 3 cenotes. It was quiet. We were there in the afternoon and only saw one other group (that was just leaving). We had the entire place to ourselves.
It is very small but fun because of the jumping platforms.
Firelight Leadership — Google review
Super awesome fun, cool. It's a perfect temperature deep pool full of crystal clear water. In a cave. With two different heights to jump from.
Adam Habig — Google review
Crystal clear water; cool and refreshing after a day of visiting ruins. There are two platforms if you date to do some high dives. The lower one is around 15 ft, and the upper one approaches 25 ft. The water is more than deep enough for either dive.
Nate Swiss — Google review
We loved this cenote. We went there and it was empty. The stairs are a little bit old and you feel the dense air but the ater… wow! So clear. It’s really beautiful and purifying .
Iris Carvalho — Google review
The best out of the “three cenotes” in the area with the 3m and 5m jumps. Great way to continue the day after visiting Cobá. The cost is 100MXN per person. Life vests are optional at no charge. You have to shower before using the cenote. We were there on Monday around 3pm and it was quite busy, but it was a very fun crowd 😁 recommend visiting “El Ranchito” restaurant after.
Orkhan B. — Google review
Fabulous and affordable cenote near Coba. (100 pesos) The water was so clear and peaceful. It’s in a cave with an incredibly high dome. Very few people. We had fun jumping off the two platforms. This one is a lot like the other cenote, Multun-Ha across the main road. No jumping platforms at Multun but it’s just as beautiful and refreshing.
Andria Martin — Google review
One of a kind experience of jumping off crazy high platforms into a cool cave! Best cenote in the area! Not much crowds there too! (We went midday on Tuesday) The road is mostly drive able for any car but still drive at your own risk. (It is a dirt road) I recommend this cenote!
Dripthany — Google review
This is a must visit cenote! We drive from Tulum and it was so worth it! 100 peso per person. Giant cave with super clear and deep water. Two jumping platforms. We had so much fun we didn’t want to leave!
Will Smithey — Google review
Worth a swim after wandering Coba ruins. It's entirely enclosed but well lit with light and ventilation. There are many steep steps down which could be an issue for some people, but worth it if you're able. There's a jumping platform at 10m and then 5m. The water is clear and cool with fish swimming around. It's quite a unique experience that I would highly recommend.
Neil N — Google review
Just go. You won’t be sorry. Steep steps to walk down but clean and not slippery with sturdy handrails. Water is cool, clean and crystal clear. Mot mots and bats flying around. Well lit and well ventilated.
Karen Giles — Google review
Fantastic experience! Spiral staircase to descend is a little dated, but sturdy. The view and water is stunning. The water is extremely clear. Was told the depth of the cenote is about 45 feet. Very much worth the stop.
They have bathroom changing areas as well, and life jackets to rent.
Very, very beautiful!!! Totally worth it. A bit pricey though, but a life jacket and snorkel kit is included. Bring an ID to secure the snorkel
Hayat Katerji — Google review
Overpriced, overcrowded, underwhelming: no changing rooms, you have to change clothes in a dirty toilet without shelves, no towels. Tourist trap. Go to Akumal, pay a fraction and see more. This here is just an empty cool pond.
Beda Hammerschmidt — Google review
MXN 500,- per person,
MXN 250,- per child.
MUST wear swimwest & shower (incl. hair) before swimming in the cenote.
you can see turtles there. feel sorry for them bc of the overtourism which infects their habitat :-/
the ppl, who work there are very unfriendly and not helpful.
Sabrina Z — Google review
Beautiful cenote but very overpriced
Sóley Jónsdóttir — Google review
Beautiful cenote. Worth it for the wildlife alone! So many turtles and fish and bats and birds. We’re able to swim so close to the turtles. Beautiful. There was a line waiting when they opened. It’s a busy one so get there early.
Open 8:10am-4:45pm
300 pesos or $15 USD
Includes a life vest
Stephanie O'Callaghan — Google review
Swimming with the turtles was more fun for adults and scared the little patooties around. The place is magical like you entered a different dimension! The entrance fee was very affordable too! We drove 2 hours from Cancun to Tulum and also paid a visit to this most talked-about Cenote.
Ja Ric — Google review
At 500 pesos, very overpriced for what it is. We spend about 2 hours here, snorkeling, laying on the grass and taking some pictures. Beware that if you want to use their snorkeling equipment, you will need to leave your ID with them or a very big deposit.
You can reach this place by bike from Tulum, the road is not that bad.
Bollejef — Google review
Amazing cenote with sump-turtles. Really beautiful place and great with an open space on top where we could enjoy the sun before going back in the cenote.
Sebastian Demant Pedersen — Google review
Really cool place, definitely recommend to go there. Entry cost 180 pesos, well worth the money. You can find turtles and "pedicure fish", it was quite busy when we got there by still really enjoyable. Bring your snorkelling stuff or you can rent them anyway there. Definitely do it:)
The Tulum Archaeological Zone is an ancient Mayan city situated on a bluff with a view of the Caribbean Sea. It was a significant trading port during the Mayan post-classic period, attracting both land and sea routes. The city's ruins offer stunning views and architectural wonders to explore.
Very awesome! It's so breathtaking and beautiful to see. Just trying to imagine the history in this area overwhelming. I highly recommend everyone to visit and experience. I'd say average 1-2 hours to see all the ruins, ready some historical data, and just take in the beautiful scenery.
Llorito Castanares Todd — Google review
Very nice and spacious. Ruins are preserved quite well and the views of the water and beach below are stunning. There are a few nicely cut out viewpoints for the ultimate photos. Oh! And many awesome iguanas posing for your photos and walking around minding their business.
Great way to spend part of your day. ( there’s also guides around if you want the true historical tour )
Rodino Janowski — Google review
Interesting stop as part of a tour. Suggest a hard pass unless you find viewing the ruins a must see. Non stop vendors enticing you to stop for pics with monkeys, iguanas, or parrots. Oh, and don't forget the excruciating heat. Bring water, a fan and a quick ride back.
Christopher Martinez — Google review
Designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 . 600-800 year old Mayan ruins. A gem from Mayan history. Hire a guide who can provide you historical insights. Beautiful seaside property. Strategic coastal location aided trade and connections. Unique defensive walls and fortifications for protection of inhabitants.
Haroon Sarwer — Google review
This place is awesome. Step back in time to a different life. The tour guide’s are so knowledgeable and each one tells a little different story. The views are so beautiful. The beach was wonderful. We spent about an hour and a half walking around the ruins.
GREG SOUTHERN — Google review
A small set of ruins set up high on cliffs that provide a beautiful and dramatic view of the gulf. Stairs down to the beach are inaccessible now though. Absolutely worth a visit you can walk the entire complex in about 45 minutes maybe an hour if crowded. Several large buildings are very impressive though you cannot go into anything everything is at a distance. It will take longer to get in though. You absolutely want a local driver or a tour as there are multiple entrances and the rules change on a whim. Also expect a search of your vehicle by armed security or army. We went via private vehicle with a local driver (shout out to Edgar) who navigated everything for us with no issues but would have been lost on our own even with decent Spanish. You purchase tickets at a small trailer and then take them to the entrance line. While they say credit cards are ok I recommend pesos or dollars. In my opinion you do not need a tour guide at the site. Everything has placards in Spanish and English and most of the guides were just repeating what they said. Many wonderful photo opportunities. Pack water and use the restroom before you arrive as it will be dreadful hot/humid and there are no concessions bathrooms or souvenir shops anywhere on site. There are beaches outside the ruins that you can access separately, and nearby on the main road is a large tourist area with restaurants and shops.
Trey Tollison — Google review
A lovely set of ruins but with a few drawback to the experience. The ruins are impressive and the site itself well maintained. If you have a guide they will explain the history and point out some of the interesting architectural delights that is part of the Mayan ruins. Some of the sculptures are well maintained. To keep everything well maintained, the key buildings are roped off (only the local lizards can pass). That goes double for the local beach which is beautiful but inaccessible. One of the main reasons is the rubbish that littered it so beware that you won't be able to bring plastic bottles into the site. There's not much shade so bring a hat but the tour we were on wasn't that long. Outside the site, you'll find they are building a nice pathway to the ruins and there may be a wait to gain access. Where the car park is you'll find also the usual tourist shops, an original Mayan Starbucks and Hagan Dazs. It's probably best to come with a tour group just from a transport perspective as it doesn't look very accessible to those without the local knowledge. Still the ruins are impressive and it's a good half day out. Just was expecting a little more.
Julian Johnson — Google review
Tulum was beautiful. We visited as part of a tour and we think that is the best way to go if you want to learn more about the history. It is a popular attraction. I recommend going as early as you can to avoid crowds. Also note that it’s very hot and a bit of a walk. So wear a hat and comfortable walking shoes - I did neither and that is my only regret.
Amy Rash — Google review
Absolutely Fabulous, definitely a gorgeous historical site. If you care about the history I'd recommend reading up on it before visiting. The guides are well educated but they each decide which buildings and stories/histories to highlight so the more you know in advance the better. Bring plenty of water and an umbrella if possible. It was scorching in the beginning of our August visit. Requires about 15 of walking to get there and the grounds are not that big but wear comfy shoes. We were there for about an hour. Strongly suggest going and seeing the overlook of the Beach. The ground is uneven but it's easy as long as you don't have mobility issues.
Ryan L — Google review
Amazing place! Anyone who loves history, must come see this.
Pay for the tour guide at the entrance. Every building, road, sign, picture, just about every stone has meaning behind it. It is just great to have someone tell you and story and meaning behind it.
edhem besirevic — Google review
I loved this place, which is very small, perfect to do two different activities in the rest of the day. My recommendation is to take a guided trip. You will understand and appreciate more the ruins if you know the maya history.
•••voltai•••• AR. — Google review
There are several things to consider, but those will depend whether you hired a tour previously or not, because there’s a parking fee, an access fee, and a tour guide (optional). I strongly recommend to use sunscreen, mosquito repelant, bring water and maybe an umbrella for those who burn easily.
Eber H. J. — Google review
We took the Tulum Express tour, and it was nice with direct hotel pick up and drop off. It was nice because we got to go and still have 1/2 the day. The view of the ocean and turquoise water is amazing!! We came early and it was already hot and didn't have to wait to get in, but as we left the line was almost a mile long to get in and was very warm. I recommend bringing lots of water, use the umbrella, and go early. It's worth the trip.
April Maxey — Google review
Very scenic. Crowded with street vendors at the parking lot entrance. Best with a guide for the facts on what you are looking. Federal property with tons of rules and authorizes on site enforcing them. Easy to stay on pathways and easy to navigate.
Ari Villafuerte — Google review
Great time. The tour of the ruins and the boat tour of the ruins was great.
Advice: Don't bring plastic water bottles or you will have no water.
kyle rhubottom — Google review
The place is spectacular...
First there's a 500m walk before entrance you can choose to take the "train" (a bus jungle styled) for 25 pesos round way.
Even arriving early in the morning there's a lot of people but it doesn't take much time to get in. Theres a temperature check before tickets, then tickets which is not too crowded since most people have it in advance, and then the ticket check and you're in.
You should take the tour following you're left side all the time, since this one will take you up to the breathtaking ocean views and you'll get to explore the whole place.
It says is stroller friendly, it is not. You can so a smaller tour if in wheelchair or with a stroller without getting up up near the ruins.
Outside you can find souvenir shops, restaurants and shops, shops, shops. Also people with costumes and some art to take pictures with.
A must visit when in Tulum !
Alejandra Morales — Google review
✨Be prepared to be amazed and walk a lot 🚶🏼♀️I end up my day with 18k steps. To get the tickets 🎟️ you can buy them at the entrance for 85 pesos, there is also an option with a guide tour for 200 💸(I suggest that one - you avoid the long line). Purchase the water in the bookstore before to get in 💧you will need it. All the info ℹ️ an map 🗺️ can be found in the QR at the entrance. 🌂 Take a umbrella with you if possible to protect yourself from the sun ☀️. The ruins are next to the beach 🏖️ so the view is amazing. 🚶🏼♀️Near by you can access the Santa Fe Tulum beach 🌊 I got there walking from the ruins.
Hope you find this useful ❤️
Vanessa C Moya — Google review
This place is amazing!! You really need a guided tour to explain all the history you are seeing! But it is a very long walk to get them and then a lot of walking inside so may not be great for anyone with children who can't walk all of that.
Janna Murphy — Google review
The view from the top of the plateau and the dramatic coastal landscape was more impressive than the ruins themselves. It’s worth a day trip from Cancun but I wouldn’t stay longer than a couple hours 👍
Jessica Lau — Google review
The ruins are gorgeous! If you're going to go into the park with a GoPro they will ask that you pay an additional fee to the park. I believe it was like 20 pesos or something? Not super expensive! I so highly recommend going here, it is breathtaking.
Christina Cola — Google review
A Scenic Marvel with Some Considerations
The Tulum Ruins offer a unique combination of history and natural splendor, set against the backdrop of the stunning Caribbean Sea. The ruins themselves are impeccably maintained, a testament to the preservation efforts. However, I found that they didn't personally engage me as much as I had anticipated.
What truly stole the show was the panoramic view of the Caribbean. It's nothing short of a masterpiece, with its turquoise waters and the rugged coastline creating a truly breathtaking scene. This alone makes the visit worthwhile.
It's worth noting, though, that accessibility could be a factor for some visitors. The walk from the parking area to the ticket counter is quite long, and from there, it's another substantial trek to reach the ruins themselves. While the journey may be a bit taxing, the payoff at the end is undeniably worth it.
For history enthusiasts, the Tulum Ruins provide an intriguing glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. The well-preserved structures and informative guides offer valuable insights into their way of life. However, for those seeking a more interactive experience, it might leave something to be desired.
In summary, Tulum Ruins offer a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, with the view being the true highlight. Be prepared for a bit of a trek, but rest assured, the enchanting scenery at the end of the journey makes it all worthwhile.
Vinutha Goutham — Google review
Great experience long wait to get in but they are making a lot of improvements. Hopefully, that will remedy the situation. I think the main problem was all people with tickers were in a very long line, and those without walked past us to go to the front to buy tickets, then just merging into the line in front of us.
Leon Miles — Google review
Fantastic ruins of the Mayan people! Great tours are available that explain what each of the buildings are. More places are being excavated and the understanding of the culture keeps improving! I highly, recommend if you love learning about history
Juan Carlos Nieves-Perez — Google review
Definitely a very nice place to go. Located in a nice, cozy cove, this place is great to go to with a tour guide. Price is right on, and the wait is a bit hot but bearable. The whole experience, though, is very hot and warm. Additionally, they don’t allow plastic water bottles to cool off. Overall, very nice place to learn and explore Mayan history.
Harvey Shao — Google review
Archeological park definitely worth the visit. It should be around 530 Mexican pesos. You pay a surcharge if you want to use professional cameras. All around it is full of souvenir shops. The park is beautiful, as well as the ruins. The atmosphere recreated is really engaging. Better to go with a tour guide, or hire one on the spot.
Claudio Cafarelli — Google review
This was an awesome adventure to vist this world renowned archaeological site. It is just a short ferry ride and then drive to Tulum. It is definitely worth seeing. Remember it is hot here most of the year so stay hydrated. The staff here are very nice and professional and there is plenty of shopping at the entrance to the site.
Chris Lee — Google review
A must see site in the region. It takes about an hour to explore the ruins. Please be aware that plastic bottles are not allowed inside. There is very little shade. Please come prepared.
Dennis Bauszus — Google review
Very beautiful! No plastic bottles or food are allowed inside. Only reusable bottles and canned water (which they sell)
Jade Stark — Google review
Amazing, beautiful and lovely to see! Not as accessible as it could be. Ticket sales are annoying. Arrive on site, pay to park if needed (probably same cost as a taxi from town to the site). Pay a national park fee at a side booth. Go through security entrance. Walk a ways. Pay for an entrance ticket. Walk a ways. Hand your ticket over. Walk a ways. Explore the grounds up and down several stairs and slopes. We went without a guide, pausing near tour groups to hear info as we wanted. Loved seeing the amazing turquoise waters below the cliff side citadel and iguanas everywhere.
Paradise Beach is a stunning coastal destination in Tulum, known for its pristine white sand, palm trees and clear turquoise waters. The area offers many casual dining options and sunbed rentals for visitors to relax and enjoy the view. It's also an ideal spot for snorkeling tours to see the local marine life, including Tortuga. While it can get crowded during the daytime, heading far left provides an opportunity to enjoy a breathtaking view without any crowds.
Beautiful beach, take a snorkeling Tour to See Tortuga. It gets bit crowded at daytime. Beach Bars overpriced. Go far left to enjoy beautiful view
Massimiliano Magnini — Google review
Good place to go for the beach
it’s clean and A day bed with a table and umbrella will cost 300-500Pesos depending on the season
the beach is pretty clean here but be wary of the restaurant they have a service fee added to your bill which takes the place of a tip but all the waiters will want a tip
no tip bad service
Chad Lawrence — Google review
Beautiful water and sand. The Go Snorkeling was beautiful with clear water. Got to hang for the day and walk to different beaches and the ruins from here.
Kevin Markman — Google review
Great experience!! Beautiful beach with so much to do
Damien Love — Google review
A really nice beach located north of the Hotel Zone in Tulum. Parking is first-come-first-serve along a narrow beach lane so unless you show up early you'll probably need to pay around 100 MXN plus tip to a beach club attendant to be able to park. The beach itself is gorgeous and free to enter, if you choose there are chairs and sun loungers you can rent from a beach club, they are 100-200 pesos per day. Drinks are very reasonable, and tasty. The pina colada was the best I had in Quintana Roo. The water is nice though some sargasso is present and you'll notice it but it's not bad at all. The beach is swept of sargasso on regular basis, but you'll still notice some in the sand. Came back here for three days in a row, I guess we liked it.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
Completely filled with sargazo, no cleaning, horrible smell. No sign of paradise at all.
This is Paraiso for the owners of hotels and beach clubs with the prices they give taking into account very poor condition of the sea and the beach. Shame!
Anikeyev92 — Google review
We had an awesome time. Parking wasn’t too bad nor expensive, there was plenty of parking available. The line to get to the beach was long ~45 min in the car waiting. @the beach we were approached to do a private or group snorkeling session and we chose the private for $~135 USD, we have never snorkeled before and weren’t really given directions, just told to follow the guide but we caught on quickly. It was awesome to see the turtles and sting rays. I wish we had a GoPro but unfortunately we didn’t, but if you do you’ll get some great footage. The food was a really good price, we got a mixture which was filet mingnon, shrimp, lobster and veggies for ~$40 (that being said do NOT go to Parole restaurant they wanted $200 for a small lobster tail)
Sarah Elizabeth — Google review
One of my favorite beaches in Tulum. Lots of restaurants to eat at and hang out at the beach. They offer parking, $200 pesos.
Cynthia Q — Google review
Nice beach but seaweed/sargassum makes it dirty and stinky. Riff in about 2 min by boat where you can find not colorful corals but swim with sea turtles and manta rays. No showers or changers at the beach
Bandi Koeck — Google review
It is used to be a beautiful Caribbean beach around 5 years ago. Now it is spoiled with sargassum. Apart from nature problems, in beach clubs like everywhere in Tulum tourists are seen as bags with money. Everything is overpriced and they try to scam you all time. The beach can be accessed with your own car , by scooter or bike. Even though it is a state natural reserve they are only private parkings that charge you 250 or 300 pesos a day. If you come by taxi be prepared to pay a fortune to go back. There is no bus or any ither public transportation. You are left with no choice. From February and till end of summer it is full of sargassum and no one cares to clean it. It is a pity that all private beach clubs and hotels do not take care of the beach and just use nature to put their business. I hope people will realize it and stop going for locals finally to realize that they are in charge of providing conditions for tourist. Tons of sargassum do not even let you approach the water. Instead of cleaning it , they came up with idea of taking you 50 meters away from the shore by boat for you to be able to enter the water. Xpu ha beach is much nicer experience.
Валентина Рогачева — Google review
The best beach I’ve visited in the area. Even in winter season you can enjoying visit it.
We were into a beach club with live music and amazing food but you can visit it for free.
Just remember carry on your own drinks 🍺 and food 🥘 is a touristic place and for that reason the prices are highest.
Victor Moreno — Google review
Nice beach. I was on private side . 500 pesos to spend in a day incluse bed toilette good food.
Nicolas Freyermuth — Google review
Beautiful beach, we went twice during our trip. The walk up and down the beach is beautiful and you can see ruins from the water.
Alexx Harley — Google review
A really lovely beach but you need to wait in line for the queue to enter and pay for the “national park” that the beach sits under. The queue can take as long as 45 mins and they only take exact cash (no change given) or card. The amount is 60.50 pesos which is not a lot but the queue can be long. It’s not a beach you can just turn up to. Parking is also 150 pesos.
Nimmi Patel — Google review
I really liked this beach club. Clean, attentive staff. The territory has everything you need for a great holiday. I recommend. The beach is clean without algae.
Victoria Kokhan — Google review
The beach is beautiful! The reason for three stars is that businesses have grabbed and exploited this beautiful area. Unfortunately, the local businesses charge to park your vehicle, and charge a minimum "consumption fee" to stay on "their" beach. Overall, prices are excessive for beverages and food!
Ångel I am who I am — Google review
Indeed a lovely beach. Located in the Tulum natural park is a semi wild beach with beautiful sand, shallow water and reef barrier good for snorkeling
Catalin Marica — Google review
Had a great time with the whole family. Kids loved the inflatables on the water and the food was yummy. Service was great!! Ask for Omar - so much fun and can’t wait to come back.
Ancient Mayan site with temple ruins & artifacts dating from 300 BCE to 1500 CE.
I really enjoyed visiting here over Tulum as it was a lot quieter and shaded. It's much smaller but the towers are much taller and impressive. Beautiful architecture on the rest of the pyramid. It costs about 65 pesos and has a free toilet facility.
Luke Barnaby — Google review
Fantastic ruins and a park that’s small enough to get through in the couple hours with the boat tour. Bring bug spray.
The lagoon boat tour was wonderful as you have the opportunity to “swim” in the natural canal. It’s “swimming” because the current is so strong it feels like a lazy river! Enjoyed the whole experience a lot.
Sarah Candee — Google review
So beautiful and you can walk about 10 min to the back of the site and continue to the biological sanctuary, which is then another 20 min walk to the beach.
There is a platform on the way that you can climb for about 5 stories and get a fantastic view!
Michelle Lin — Google review
This was great! Would do again just for the lazy river part! Be prepared to walk a-bit on some wooden plank walkways! Definitely well worth the trip! Completely incredible to see what they could create back then with what they had! Definitely wish could have a guided tour to know
More about the history!
J McCracken — Google review
Must see!!! One of the earliest and longest inhabited ancient Maya sites on the eastern coast of the Yucatan peninsula. It's an easy drive from Tulum. Around $3.50 to enter.
Brian Lawson — Google review
70 pesos per person to enter. Plus 50 pesos for drones or (professional) camera equipment. Plus 50 pesos to walk the wooden path from the ruins to the lagoon.
Well worth the entry fee and a few hours exploring. We did see a snake whilst walking along the path, can you spot it in my photo?
The park has written signs in three languages so you don’t need a tour guide, although they do work the area.
Parking is free at the entrance and there is a refreshment place and souvenirs across the road.
Jourdain W — Google review
Definitely add on the boat tour. It was 1,000 pesos when you buy it from the park. It's so worth it to see that part. There is another smaller ruin they take you to, and the view of the biosphere is amazing. You get to float a section of it, which is refreshing after you walk the ruins and the path through the park. They don't allow sunscreen or big repelant if you are going on the boat tour. There are definitely mosquitoes during the walk through the trail.
Kristiana Spehr — Google review
Fantastic place. Simple, silent, you feel the nature. When you go inside, you'll find a wooden door where you can go to a lagoon through forests and costs you extra 50 pesos. Definitely go there. It's an amazing adventure to walk there. You feel like in jungle 😍
Alexandru Tomuz — Google review
Cool little historical spot to check out for a couple hours. Not a hugely popular spot so you'll have a relatively private time. There are a few different ruins, some nice wooded trails with great trail maintenance. Then there is also a lagoon you can walk to using a wood plank path that's about 1km long. Fun little day trip with multiple street taco spots nearby.
Alex Trimpe — Google review
I really enjoy bringing people here. It is smaller than other Maya ruins but in some ways more approachable. There is ongoing restoration and the setting is very jungle like. Less commercialization and fewer people.
Diana Harris — Google review
Incredible sights. Would recommend using bug spray! Make sure you also book the boat tour through the laguna and lazy river, as that was the absolute best bit!
Pablo Orlando — Google review
Super cool if you’re into historical sites. Definitely recommend going on the earlier side and bring bug spray. You can pay on site to enter its about 70 pesos. If you would like to explore the wooden bridge that takes you to the lagoon it’s about another 50 pesos to enter that part and another 50 or so if you want to take a boat ride on the lagoon. There’s also a cool wooden tower you can climb along the way!
Jordan Watson (Ace King) — Google review
This is a really cozy site! There is a jungle walk possible after seeing the ruins. And thereafter there's a boat tour on the lagoon that you could take.
The ruin entrance costs $70, the jungle walk is $50, and the boat tour $160.
Sofia T A — Google review
Amazing. Vast in thr jungle with some bright colors and relifs. Caves and affordable. Monkey's can be heard. No wifi. It links yo an amazing walk and boat tour where manatee and turtles are. Check out the full review on tiktok annastravels and on ig annastravelsnyc
Anna Hess — Google review
I drove and used google maps to get to the office. Talked to one of the guys inside the booth to purchase the ticket and also the boat ride to the lagoons. Ticket price is 70 mx for the ruins and additional 50 if you proceeded to take the pathway at the back of the ruin. If you’re not going to take the boat ride, I suggest to only purchase the ticket for the ruins. There’s not much to do aside from the sketchy tower that you can climb when you’re close to the dock where they take you to the lagoon if you purchase the boat ride. The best is if you take the boat ride. It’s 1000 mx per person. They’ll take you to the 2 lagoons then lastly to the shallow canal where they let you float around for almost an hour.
Donald Harvey — Google review
Cost for Ruins = 75 MXN per person.
Cost for Bridge and Walk to Lagoon (chance to see wildlife) = 50 MXN per person.
Cost for Lagoon Exploration Ride = 1000 MXN per person. (1 hr, swim in lagoon).
We only did the first two. Would recommend the first, but not the second, unless you intend on the lagoon excursion. If not, save your pesos, the walk is too long for little ROI.
We met a father/daughter who said the Lagoon excursion was worth it.
Ali V — Google review
The tour for the site at the time we arrived was $70MXN. There is an additional cost to walk the trail that leads from the end of the archeological site down to the lagoon behind it and the cost was $50MXN. We highly recommend the trail; it takes you through the jungle and you can see a few very small cenotes (not swimmable) and wild life. Also, if you can, book the lagoon tour with them directly. They sell it for a third of the cost of third party tour operators and the money goes towards the Mayan community in the area that protects the site. Raul was our tour guide and provided us with a great experience. The cost of that tour is $1000MXN.
Gabriela Carrillo — Google review
As an explorer, here's my spin... I would have never found this on my own on how to get here unless you take an inflated tour. Found some travelers that has gone here before and tagged along for the adventure. Went to the local bus station ADO and found the bus that was heading that direction, paid 35pesos directly to the bus driver was what we were told at the ticketing booth. The Arqueologica de Muyil (75pesos) was being rebuilt on most of the ruins, the paths were not marked out properly, but it was not too big a site. The strangest extra 50 pesos to walk on a shabby not well maintained boardwalk through the jungle was simply a scam, a rickety tower that is downright dangerous and really the view on top was not worth it. We took the boat tour to the lagoon river (you get to float in the river for about half hour in crystal clear water) was pretty good but pricey, good for the experience.
Eddie Wong — Google review
Pretty good time at the ruins overall. It’s a small park; the ruins are for sure the highlight for me, and you can explore them all within about an hour and a half. Reasonable price and there are quite a few good food/drink options for such a rural area. But in my G-d’s honest opinion… don’t waste your money on the rest of the park. The lagoon is nice or whatever but unless you’re going to spend $800+ per person (not per boat) to go farther across the lagoon, it’s not worth it… but the ruins were great, and I did enjoy the walk and the view! We just couldn’t justify paying $1600p for a two hour boat tour, and we weren’t allowed to just rent our own kayaks. And as you can see, they are speed boats, so it isn’t like the guy would have to be rowing extra weight to justify the cost (we are both very thin anyhow).
The hardest part for us was getting home. You can catch the ADO bus from the cement parada but Lord only knows when it’s coming, and if it will stop! We ended up hitching a ride back to Tulum with a random van driver. (NOTE: This is NOT recommended for people who don’t speak Spanish or women traveling alone!) If I were alone I wouldn’t do that, but I do speak Spanish and was with my boyfriend. We were fine, BH, but please be aware that if you didn’t drive, getting home can be a challenge (regardless of whether or not you bought round-trip ADO Bus tickets!)
Gorgeous ruins though, A+
Shark Bolan — Google review
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Reforma Agraria-Puerto Juárez km 25, 77710 Chunyaxché, Q.R., Mexico
Located at the southern end of the Riviera Maya, the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve is a protected jungle preserve that offers guided boat tours, wildlife sightings, walkways and Mayan ruins. This natural treasure has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its diverse flora and fauna both on land and in the sea. The area comprises of various ecosystems including a rich coastline of the Mexican Caribbean.
Absolutely one of the most beautiful places on earth. Here you have the opportunity to see lots of wildlife like crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, turtles and more then 300 different species of birds. The turcoise water around Punta Allen is absolutely stunning!! Highly recommended visiting Sian Ka'an.
Matthijs van veen — Google review
We went there with a tour organized by the local community. The staff was super friendly and open to share thoughts.
On our boat trip we stopped on a beach that was full of littering. When talking with the tour guides they said that the place was completely abandoned by the administration. Even though they do their best to preserve it, it is only that much they can do.
I hope everyone who visits this place reports it to put some pressure on the admin. 🙏🏽
Irene Jim?nez — Google review
Give yourself a day to explore The Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka'an. Be forewarned that the dirt road/path is full of potholes. It takes a while to drive through the dirt road envelope by a heavy tropical forest, mangroves, lagoons, and marshes. There are many beaches to find and wildlifes to see.
Some areas are privately owned, but we found a little nice beach area that we were able to enjoy.
The drive to this reserve was 2 hours from Cancun, but we spent nearly a whole day here exploring and driving through the area and back.
Noreen Roberson — Google review
Amazing beautiful place. The drive to the pick up place (where we met our captains) is hell. 10 km by the most rocky jungle road took us around an hour but it’s so worth it. The nature is stunning. We saw 3 dolphins playing for 20 minutes! Lots of birds! No crocodiles or turtles for us but still amazing!!!
Scott Landon — Google review
This place is only for extremely patient people, that's for sure. To get there you need to either drive or go on a tour, but either way the trip is very long due to the fact that the road is not paved and it's EXTREMELY bumpy. So the driver is forced to go super slowly while the vehicle is shaking for 3 hours on the way there and 3 on the way back (from playa del carmen , a little les from tulum). It's worth doing it at least once though, because the lagoon is spectacular. You can see dolphins, turtles and manatees with their babies, in their natural habitat!
Danila Massara — Google review
You can skip it! 100 pesos entrance fee for a bad road which is mainly closed on both sites. Everything is private and the beaches plus the nature is full of plastic. I think mexicos beautiful nature is close to be past thing. Its sad but when you see what you can buy here in the supermarkets its not a surprise. Plus most of the people here just only think on profit and don't care about their nature.
Alexander Kiesche — Google review
Today 22 April 2023 it was world's earth day and we did a beach clean up in the Reserva Sian Ka'an.
We first stopped at the narrowest part, where at one side was the mangrove and at the other side the sea & beach.
Here we saw a crocodile and a manatee. As all volunteers came together we went to the actual place where the clean up was.
There were a lot of volunteers participating. We went with 7 persons of Infinity2diving from Tulum.
We gathered all together a lot of plastic garbage.
Petra (Pitch) — Google review
This is an amazing natural reserve area where there is an abundance of wildlife, including manatee, dolphins, crocodiles and many species of birds. Among the birds that were present during the dry season, when we visited, were frigates, egrets, osprey, and pink spoonbills which were nesting at the time. Fauna include of course the mangrove (red and black), air plants and banana orchids (not in bloom but still interesting) This is a must see and even though the tours are expensive at around 150 usd per person, you will get more out of it with a guide. Theoretically having that guide would mean that the tour would be more eco friendly and cause less stress to the animals. There is an unfortunate tendency for the boat drivers to surround the animals, which must cause stress. Luckily right now there are a limited number of boats but sometimes they many arrive at once and there were a few times when i wanted to leave to give the animal more space. The Mexican government needs more oversight on the Form of rangers to curb some of the less desirable behaviours before it gets more out of hand.
Paul Taylor — Google review
Really sad to be giving this one star. The road here is absolutely ridiculous. Really. This is not hyperbole. You'll be lucky to get back with your car intact. But even if you do, it's 4 intensely nervous hours of driving through potholes that you will never get back. Even with a jeep it's just not worth it. And that's 4 hours just to get nowhere and back. Seriously, just say no. Plenty of other places to explore.
Arnon Cahen — Google review
A wonderful park which definitely deserves a visit. Make sure you get a good tour that takes you snorkelling to the reef
Elena Macciò — Google review
We love visiting the Sian Ka'an and have returned multiple times. Luis, Mirian and Daniel in the buffet restaurants take very good care of you and are attentive. Victor on the animation team leads very goof aqua gym sessions, paying attention to any injuries and giving advice rather than pushing you. Love this hotel!
Tony B — Google review
Turtles, crabs, dolphins, crocodiles and Coral reef. Bird Islands (mangrove Islands) and lots of beautiful scenery. I fully recommend visiting.
Marketa Koulova — Google review
2.5 stars. this is a conflicted review.
we had an amazing guide/captain who took care of us and tried his best to show us the marine animals in the lagoon. we saw a manatee, a stingray, a lot of birds, an underground cenote,and learned a lot of interesting facts. the floating river in the middle of the mangrove forest was amazing, especially because we were the only people there. overall, it’s a beautiful place to see and i would recommend a visit.
shame about all the plastic trash washed up on the otherwise beautiful beach. i didn’t understand why they’re even showing this to tourists. our guide told us that the trash comes from the island of cozumel and washes up on this side. they don’t clean it up and just leave it there while also maintaining an image of an ecological and protected biospheric reserve that doesn’t even have functioning toilets. there should be stricter laws regarding trash and pollution in the whole of yucatan, not just in e.g. tulum where they don’t allow plastic bottles anymore. but most of all, the constant development and construction of tourist resorts and hotels needs to stop. the road leading to the mayan ruins and sian ka’an was lined with half-finished construction zones. they should never have allowed cozumel or riviera maya to become the tourist hotspot it is today.
Eli Hythova — Google review
The road is serious business, not for whiners or delicate day trippers. It has protected this area by keeping out those people who don't appreciate life's journeys.
Danette Day — Google review
Amazing view, great spot for dolphins. Boat goes fast
Samuel Colassin — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place, we saw lots of animals.
Charlie Zhang — Google review
Amazing place, simply amazing. Brilliant management plan for tourism, fingers crossed that doesn't change. Pepe was an awesome guide, very knowledgeable and had an addictive level of enthusiasm. Would love to return in 20 years to see any changes
Adam Locker — Google review
The views are amazing but not that different from those you see in Tulum public beaches, but the road is in terrible conditions. You'd average 10-15 kmph and you're lucky if you don't get motion sickness...
We went via taxi from Costa Maya (Carnival Cruise), only $35/person instead of over $100 per for the excursion. Taxi ride and tour was FANTASTIC!!! The ruins are very impressive. The locals were very nice and easy to communicate with. The monkeys in the trees was a really cool bonus. Even though it was extremely hot, would highly recommend this!!!
Tim Caldwell — Google review
We visited the Mayan ruins with a group from pre-purchased tickets through our cruise trip. From the cruise port, it took an hour but our host made the trip seem shorter as he gave lots of great information. We rode in a comfy air conditioned bus with lots of room. Getting to the ruins, there was a little shopping center. Walking through the park was nice and not crowded. We saw spider monkeys walking about and were able to climb some of the ruins. I would recommend anyone interested to visit at least once!
Esmeralda ?Esmi? Contreras — Google review
Nice Mayan ruins city. Tour is active and beautiful to experience. Wear sneakers, no exceptions. Be ready to climb!
Kirsten Alford — Google review
A historical/ancient site to definitely visit in Honduras. A tour guide will make the experience better and educational. The place could have some info-panels for tourists.
Stavros Katsikadis — Google review
We did an excursion through Norwegian Cruise Line. Worth every penny. Our guide was Morales. He was knowledgeable and very funny. This was our first tour of Mayan ruins so we don’t have anything to compare too but it exceeded our expectations. The monkeys were especially entertaining.
Alexis Laub — Google review
Great place to visit! There are not many tourists so it is a really great experience to visit the ruins and have them basically for yourself. Temples are really impressive so it is definitely worth visiting.
We even saw some spider monkeys there so it was a very good experience for us.
Andrea Miskovicova — Google review
Such a beautiful site. The paths were easy to walk, but there is some steep climbing up pyramid steps at points. We saw wild monkeys in the trees on our walk. The scenery is amazing. We used native choice as our tour guide and they were amazing.
Ryan Nowlin — Google review
Beautiful site and outstanding views. The guides are great and very informative. Cute little shop stalls that we got some cool souvenirs from. If you want to get the full experience, be prepared for some moderate physical exertion to climb the numerous steps.
steven campbell — Google review
What an amazing place! Such incredible history! All covered by jungle until 1972...
Original mortar holding these massive pyramids in place is mind boggling. Note if climbing the stairs on these pyramids that they are uneven and of varying heights...it is easy to fall ( which I did) so be careful!!! Great jungle vegetation and a spider monkey in the trees!
Allison Batchelor — Google review
Visited these Mayan ruins while on a Carnival cruise which stopped in Costa Maya. These were the largest ruins I had seen at the time, and they were very impressive. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and very engaging. This was a great alternative to the other excursions from the cruise, and the whole family loved it.
Tim Kitchen — Google review
Amazing place. Good to learn the history of the Mayan people. Only complaint is the shop, I didn’t see any prices on things and you had to ask. Makes you think they charge whatever they want depending on who you are.
Josh Dundon — Google review
Probably the most up-close ruins experience on the planet. There is no hands off rule. We had an excellent guide, Carlos, from Toucan tours. Book online and save 50%, over ship sponsored excursions. Plus the gift shop was extensive without the pressure.
Carlos asked us if we wanted to try some street tacos on the way back to port and everyone was in. Great, but simple food, at a fantastic price. My Bride and I each had a beer and 3 tacos for $5!
Bill Tomko — Google review
We really enjoyed this trip! We saw several Mayan temples, one of which we were able to climb to the top. We walked through the ruins of the Mayan village and saw some spider monkeys zipping through the jungle canopy! Our guide, Dennis, was very knowledgeable of Mayan history and language! He also gave us two tidbits of potentially life changing advice, "If you see a Jaguar, don't try to touch it!" and "When viewing monkeys up in the canopy overhead, keep your mouth closed! The trails can be slippery and a little muddy in some areas, so wear sturdy walking shoes that can handle rocks and light mud. A hat, cool clothing and insect repellent is a good idea. Also I noticed a few wise travelers had small folding fans that helped hold the heat and humidity at bay. The Yucatan peninsula can be rather warm. Overall, a great trip!
Jack Adkisson — Google review
A beautiful piece of history that was easy to get to from our cruise port. Everyone we encountered during our visit was friendly, kind, and talkative. I'd love to spend more time here.
Vincent Esposito — Google review
It is a fantastic place to visit, right in the middle of the forest and close to the Belize border. It takes 45 minutes driving from Mahahual. The site has 5 main buildings and many more still to bring to light. It is said to have a total of around 200. Local guides are available. The tour takes about 1 hour and in order to take pictures or film you need to pay a 4 dollars fee. To be honest, I didn't see anyone checking it, although I have paid for the permit. The site is mostly accessible. However, the main building is at the top of the hill, and you have to climb some steps. Not accessible to everyone.
At the entrance there is a small café, a souvenir shop and toilets. If you enjoy chewing gum, I advise you to buy a pack of the original one. Produced locally and organic. It's completely different from the nowadays ones. If you visit the place in the rainy season, I advise you to use mosquitoes repellent.
ana tavares — Google review
Chacchoben Ruins are a must-see if you want to explore without feeling overwhelmed in the cruise port, I booked through cruise line, and it was an hour trip to and back. Bring cash, and don't be afraid to negotiate for souvenirs. And be prepared to walk, pack water, sunblock, and a portable fan.
Alma Fawcett — Google review
This was amazing to me, We took the tour and it did not disappoint. The Tour Guide we had was very knowledgeable about the site as she also had Mayan ancestry in her. She explained the Language, Medicinal Plants used, the different Pyramid uses. There are still new pyramids being found on the site.
Papa Victor — Google review
Great views of the Mayan ruins. There is some walking involved as well as climbing at the last stop. Best to wear appropriate shoes.
Even in the hot weather, nice n cool under the trees.
Gerhard J — Google review
Chacchoben is a very nice and accessible Mayan ruins site. We visited as part of a cruise excursion. Only an hour from the port of Costa Maya. These temples are not huge but they are still very cool to see.
Randy Barsch — Google review
Out of all the Mayan Ruins that I have visited, this is the best. Ruins still covered by jungle overgrowth as well as many that have been restored.
Be sure to bring bug spray/Off, after the month of March.
Todd A — Google review
Chaccoben Mayan Ruins: A Journey through History and Culture
Nestled off the coast of Costa Maya lies a hidden gem that captivates the hearts and minds of all who visit - the Chaccoben Mayan Ruins. My experience exploring this ancient site during a Norwegian Cruise excursion left an indelible mark, revealing a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and cultural connections that transcends time and borders.
As our 12 group embarked on the journey to Chaccoben, excitement permeated the air. The anticipation of unraveling the mysteries of this ancient civilization was palpable. Little did we know that what awaited us would far surpass our expectations.
Upon arrival, the grandeur of the Mayan ruins unfolded before our eyes. Towering pyramids, intricate stone carvings, and sprawling temple complexes painted a vivid picture of a once-thriving civilization. Surprisingly, the architecture and religious symbolism bore striking resemblances to structures found in South India, a testament to the interconnectedness of human history and the universality of human expression.
Guided by the knowledgeable Fabiola, we embarked on a journey through time, delving into the rituals, beliefs, and daily life of the ancient Mayan people. Fabiola's insights illuminated the significance of each structure, from the towering temples dedicated to deities to the humble dwellings of the common folk. As we explored the sanctums and ceremonial plazas, it became evident that every stone told a story, every carving a testament to a bygone era.
One aspect that added an element of adventure to our exploration was the presence of wildlife, particularly snakes. Thankfully we had appropriate footwear and stayed vigilant as we navigated the site. Despite the couple of sightings, the allure of the ruins remained undiminished, a testament to the resilience of nature and the enduring spirit of the Mayan civilization.
As we traversed the ruins, the importance of preparation became apparent. The journey from the port to Chaccoben took approximately 1.5 hours, followed by an equally enriching 1.5-hour tour of the site. Our presence of mind to carry water, sunshades, caps, and sunscreen proved invaluable, ensuring that we remained comfortable and hydrated throughout our expedition.
Each step we took was a testament to the awe-inspiring legacy of the Mayan civilization. From the intricate carvings adorning the temples to the verdant jungle that embraced the ruins, Chaccoben offered a glimpse into a world shrouded in mystery and wonder.
In conclusion, my visit to the Chaccoben Mayan Ruins was an unforgettable journey through history and culture. From the awe-inspiring architecture to the spiritual significance of the site, every moment was a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the ancient Mayan people. As I reflect on my experience, I am reminded of the profound connections that unite humanity across time and space (continents), reaffirming the importance of preserving our shared heritage for future generations to cherish and explore.
Satya Aluru — Google review
What to expect: An hour ride from the cruise drop off point, an hour and a half of walking around the ruins, and an hour ride back.
Some walking, and some shopping at the temple site with limited food options (get the tamales if you can!)
An incredible excursion for any cruise stop - I highly suggest it!
Cameron Yoder — Google review
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Carretera Federal, 307 Via Carta Mérida, Pedro Antonio Santos - Chunhuhub, Chetumal, Q.R., Mexico
Bacalar Lagoon, situated in the magical town of Bacalar, is a hidden gem known for its clear aqua water and white limestone bottom. It's a favorite spot for travelers looking to escape crowded Yucatan beaches. The lagoon offers over-the-water hammocks and swings at hotels and resorts along the shore. Its brilliant shades of blue and turquoise have earned it the nickname "Lagoon of Seven Colors.
I been to this place twice and it is a publo magico magical town. Just looking at the blue water and walking all the way in and still the water is at your waist. The beautiful turquoise crystalline beautiful water is astonish of the lagona of seven colores. This is must visit if you get a chance while in Cancun, you can either rent a car or take a bus from Playa del Carmen.
Marlondo Sanchez — Google review
Superó todas mis expectativas! De verdad que esta increíble !
Un dato que debes saber es que existen muelles públicos donde no tienen costo, tienen sus reglas pero son muy recomendables !
(Translated by Google)
It exceeded all my expectations! It really is incredible!
One thing you should know is that there are public docks where there is no cost, they have their rules but they are highly recommended!
Juan Carlos Navarro — Google review
Fantastic place for a swim - must do for Intrepid Travel folks on their way to Chetumal
russky — Google review
I have seen a lot of amazing lakes, from the Titicaca lake to lake Ohrid in Macedonia to lake Jheel Lulusar in Pakistan, which had been my undisputed favorite lake in the world for a long time. Well, it is no longer undisputed, since I got to witness the seven shades of the blue water of Bacalar gradually change hour by hour. I came from Belize and crossed the border to see the lake, but it is not that far from Tulum/Cancun and it is a must see.
Shahab Uddin — Google review
This 7 colour lagoon is amazing. Much nicer than ocean. Cristal clear, warm water. Every shade of blue you can imagine. Mangrove alley. Possibility to swim, take a boat tour, take a cajac. Place to make plans for some 2 to 3 days of true bliss
Iveta Stasulane — Google review
Legendary. Akalki hotel is especially amazing.
egor — Google review
Bacalar Lagoon is as breathtaking in real life as it is in pictures. I have a feeling it’s going to explode in tourism soon, so go before it does!
Taylor Locke — Google review
It's just wonderful! The blue in this lagoon is unlike any other I've seen before. I just hope they will take more action for conservation here as there are a lot of motorized boats, and it ruins the ecosystem and the peace of the place.
Benjamin Roy — Google review
Very beautiful lagoon.a boat trip is really a great experience in the incredible blue waters
Maria georgieva assenova — Google review
My 3rd third time in this area . it's been a very pleasant experience overall. Truly recomend. Just make sure you stay for couple days . It's and easier commute if you stop first in tulum Instead of driving directly from Cancun ...
Oscar Cabrera — Google review
There is no single word to describe this place!! Its the serenity you won’t find anywhere else, its the literally crystal clear water, its the delicious authentic Mexican food, and the extremely nice people. We were very lucky to see the lagoon’s 50 shades of blue. While we were on a sailing boat trip, we witnessed the crazy rain that came out of nowhere and added to the the magic and beauty if this lake, and it was such a fantastic experience!! So even if the forecast is saying it will rain cats and dogs there, just never cancel your boat trip, believe me you won’t regret it and it wont rain more than half an hour.If you’re visiting the Quintana Roo area, don’t hesitate to visit Bacalar Lagoon, its easily reachable from Tulum ( 2 hours by car)
NISRINE AMMOURY — Google review
Lake is beautiful. Boat tour was ok. I didn't have great time in Bacalar though. Entire beach privately owned, I felt terrible for local people, not only buildings blocking views/breeze water, it's just seem so unfair and sad. So if you want to have decent time you either have to pay expensive beachfront hotel/apartments or pay for private beach club day ( with terrible food and overpriced drinks. Public beaches sometimes overcrowded and don't have much shade. I personally didn't have good time also because locals complained that I have service dog with me. So security have to come and check my papers every time, then settle it with locals. The whole thing felt uncomfortable, so I had to pay for beach clubs. Also it was mistake to come in August. It's extremely hot. I mean it's more hot than Singapore. Most restaurants and stores also have no AC. Again blocked beaches making it feels worse. Plus children that walking around entire day and begging tourists buy souvenirs - heartbreaking. Immediately I remembered similar tough childhood. This is my personal experience at lake Bacalar.
I M — Google review
Best shore excursion ever. But it was not as good as I thought. In my case cloudy and shower so it’s depend on weather.
I think awesome place when sunny day.
Ps. Thanks Sofia our tour guide for amazing experience and wonderful time.
Sukil Yoon — Google review
That's really hidden gem of Mexico. It is not so crowdy, maybe cause its kinda far from tourist places. Much better then Tulum! And even more cheaper! The Lagoon is so, so so amazing!!! The colour is unbelievable. Also the Lagoon is not deep at all so you can swim as you want.
Alfonso deMucha — Google review
Beautiful place, they conserve the area with closing the lagoon on Wednesday. I recommend to go on a tour with a sailboat to preserve even more the lagoon.
Stalwart 1729 stone fort with a moat, a museum with artifacts & murals depicting area history.
Cool fort to see in Bacalar. We did a tour that included this so we got some history of the fort. There's a little bit of walking over uneven stones but should not be too difficult if you don't use a walker. Not suited for wheelchairs.
Christina Boone — Google review
Just off the main square is the fort of San Felipe. It's quite expensive to enter 110 mxn as of December 2023 but inside there is a small museum which details the history of pirates in the area. The fort was built to protect the town - in the Lagoon itself, there is a narrow channel called the Pirates' Channel through which ships could enter.
Joe Sidonio — Google review
Nice archeological place with a nice history about Bacalar.
It has a museum inside with a beautiful Mural and some stories about pirates 🏴☠️
The price is super reasonable same for foreigners and nationals.
Our favorite part was the nice views of the lagoon you can have from here.
Danichatz Travels (Danichatz) — Google review
The castle was ok. Nothing special. it looks like you are looking to the Caribbean Sea, but you are looking to a sweet water lake. You can do from the castle some nice pictures. But the little museum wasn’t special. You had to pay an entrance fee of 110 pesos.
zimmi zimmi — Google review
Very complete and explained. Loved the views
It started raining and rain was pouring inside through a window over important displays
marina rodriguez calvo — Google review
Amazing old 17th centenary fort that was built to protect the local town from pirate attacks. It’s small but we’ll preserved and includes a museum that has displays in both English and Spanish
J G — Google review
Not breathtaking or anything, but the price is fairly cheap (especially for Mexicans and kids), and the information is very interesting. I felt like I learned a lot about Mayan culture and the Spanish invasion from the visit.
Stephen R — Google review
This small fort has a museum that does a decent job in summarizing the history of the fort, the Yucatan peninsula and piracy in the region. 110 pesos for foreigners, less for nationals.
Nice view of the lagoon, and some of the resident iguanas (in the moat) are quite large.
Michael Greer — Google review
I've visited several old Spanish forts in Mexico and I thought this was a nice one. Although the fort is small, it is well preserved and there is a nice museum located in the central building. I would say it's definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.
Mark Goodwin — Google review
Nothing to do. The boats don't go out on Wednesdays. Dust and dirt everywhere. Roads are filled with trucks for construction of Tren Maya, which is seriously delayed. Big disappointment.
Tony Montano — Google review
It's an old fortress with a very small museum, not really exciting 😉 Did love looking at the very big leguano's living there tho 🥰 and the view over the lake is very nice.
The website said you pay 55 pesos to enter but the price is 110. I think the price is too high for what you get.
Silvia Bogers — Google review
Lots of plaques and information but it needs to be given some attention as the information plaques were peeling and falling apart, a few were hard or impossibleto read. The museum has an excellent timeline for the history of human habitation in Yucatan and covered a lot of topics from Mayan culture to colonisation and pirates. There's actually a human skeleton visible under the glass floor of the museum, no information was available. Interesting but sad place. No refreshments but the cafe's nearby are excellent, and watch out for iguanas riding cannons!
Cameron Southey — Google review
This is the only really historic building in Bacalar, hence its kind of a must when you're in town. Tickets are 110 pesos for foreigners, which is one of the more expensive tickets to historical sites that I've purchased in Quintana Roo. the inside of a fort is very plain, i mean its a fort, it had a military function only. The main building has been turned into a small museum that talks about the history of the area, from the pre-Columbian times to integration with Mexico.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling in Belize. Situated at the southern end of Ambergris, this 6.5-square-mile nature preserve is home to diverse marine life and spectacular coral formations. Its name, which means 'Little Channel' in Maya, comes from the natural break in the reef known as Hol Chan Cut. The colorful corals on the walls of the channel support an impressive variety of fish species like black groupers and moray eels.
We went with Amigos del Mar. It was awesome. The coral and marine life at Hol Chan were spectacular, but swimming with and touching nurse sharks was probably a once in a lifetime experience for us. I highly recommend this location and Amigos del Mar.
dave church — Google review
We went for Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark/Ray Alley Snorkeling tour. Guided snorkeling helps to point out turtles, fishes and sharks. Enjoyed the 3-hour experience … the tour operators will register with the Marine Station. Good viewing possibilities.
Sa Sh — Google review
Snorkelled as part of our tour from Ridge & Reef Adventures. Lots of boats and each operator has to get their spot from the Marine Reserve office on a boat off to the side. The tides can be quite strong, but nothing serious for a good swimmer. Lots of marine wildlife to see.
Phil Ashman — Google review
We booked with Searious Adventures and it was great! We noticed on the way there that all of the boats had normal chairs and were in a rush to get to each location. Our tour let us lounge on beanbag chairs while the guides started by pointing out the different stingrays and marine life in the area so we knew what to look for. When we got to Hol Chan, they talked about the history of the location dating back to when the Mayans came there. Afterwards the prepped us up and let us go in. While trying our best to maintain a safe distance, it was insanely cool to see how amazing these creatures are. My favorite animal is a stingray so seeing them gliding around with the sharks was so beautiful.
Amarillo Doe — Google review
An abundance of marine life! Such a beautiful spot. Not a super deep diving area but it’s absolutely stunning. Good for diving or snorkelling. Shark ray ally was a really great experience.
Jennifer Bernard — Google review
Amazing. You will see so much wildlife here and the coral does look healthy. The main problem is how many boats are there at one time.
Michael Messenger — Google review
I followed a family of Spotted Eagle Rays here for around 15 minutes. 2 adults and 2 little ones. They did not seem to mind me swimming with them. I was at peace and hypnotised by their grace. Even though I also saw such a diverse range of wildlife here like manatees, sea turtles, sharks and lionfish - the Eagle Rays were the highlight. I saw more stuff here in Belize than the Great Barrier Reef in Aus. Paradise. Anyone into diving simply must come here
Alan Egan — Google review
My wife's favorite snorkel spot so far, swim with nurse sharks, I mean touching and all. Lots of sea life. Bit of a long haul boat ride but yes worth it.
Patrick Cates — Google review
Ok guys if you want an epic experience you have got to add this to your list of things to do. I have done this so many times in the past 5 years. I take every person I can out to do this as it is one of the best experiences ever. The guides are always amazing. It is worth every penny you will spend on this.
Scott Bell — Google review
Hol Chan was amazing and breathtaking! We did a guided snorkeling trip, and this was one of the stops. We swam with sharks and all species of marine life, got to see all the natural coral in the open sea. Definitely recommend this as an excursion if you're looking for something to do. The waters are clear and beautiful, it was amazing!
gualberto jr garza — Google review
An absolute fantastic experience snorkeling here. All kinds of tropical fish, rays, and we even saw a sea turtle. We also swam with the sharks. It was intense but awesome.
Darren Baker — Google review
We all went snorkeling here and were able to see a variety of sea life! We did a booking tour that brought us here. It was fun and busy!
chad ratigan — Google review
A must see and do when you are here. You see nursing sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and all kind of fish swimming along the coral reefs.. beautiful 😍
Susanne Morrison — Google review
I've been snorkeling more than a few times, and this was by far the best experience. The Coral was alive and there was an abundance of marine life. It can get a little crowded out there there are many resorts all coming to this particular reserve due to its quality morning is by far the busiest but the afternoon you may not have as clear of water or visibility. This is a must do if you're in the area there's also divers there but I would much rather recommend Blue Hole over Hol Chan period
Average Joe — Google review
Fantastic spot to snorkel and dive. We have seen many animals like sharks, turtles, sting rays etc. Very clean water and not too crowded. We made a snorkel trip and enjoyed it very much. Highly recommend
Thorsten Siering — Google review
This has been the best snorkeling experience of my life. Certainly trumped Hawaii and the Great Barrier reef in Australia. The way its set up and being able to see the slow yet steady decent of the reef was amazing. Still teeming with life and not but a 10 min boat ride from San Pedro coast.
Tyler liberatore — Google review
Our tour guide was Pepper, very knowledgeable of the sea life, awesome guide! Pepper explained everything to us before getting in the water. He made us feel comfortable. Although I didn’t stay in the water as long as the others, I can say that this was the best experience ever. Thanks Pepper!
(First time in Belize. First time snorkeling)
Cassandra Bou — Google review
Everything was perfect...from pick up to drop off. Kind, funny, professional staff. Bird pointed out sooo many different things and made swimming with sharks safe and exciting!!
Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling in Belize. Situated at the southern end of Ambergris, this 6.5-square-mile nature preserve is home to diverse marine life and spectacular coral formations. Its name, which means 'Little Channel' in Maya, comes from the natural break in the reef known as Hol Chan Cut. The colorful corals on the walls of the channel support an impressive variety of fish species like black groupers and moray eels.
We went with Amigos del Mar. It was awesome. The coral and marine life at Hol Chan were spectacular, but swimming with and touching nurse sharks was probably a once in a lifetime experience for us. I highly recommend this location and Amigos del Mar.
dave church — Google review
We went for Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark/Ray Alley Snorkeling tour. Guided snorkeling helps to point out turtles, fishes and sharks. Enjoyed the 3-hour experience … the tour operators will register with the Marine Station. Good viewing possibilities.
Sa Sh — Google review
Snorkelled as part of our tour from Ridge & Reef Adventures. Lots of boats and each operator has to get their spot from the Marine Reserve office on a boat off to the side. The tides can be quite strong, but nothing serious for a good swimmer. Lots of marine wildlife to see.
Phil Ashman — Google review
We booked with Searious Adventures and it was great! We noticed on the way there that all of the boats had normal chairs and were in a rush to get to each location. Our tour let us lounge on beanbag chairs while the guides started by pointing out the different stingrays and marine life in the area so we knew what to look for. When we got to Hol Chan, they talked about the history of the location dating back to when the Mayans came there. Afterwards the prepped us up and let us go in. While trying our best to maintain a safe distance, it was insanely cool to see how amazing these creatures are. My favorite animal is a stingray so seeing them gliding around with the sharks was so beautiful.
Amarillo Doe — Google review
An abundance of marine life! Such a beautiful spot. Not a super deep diving area but it’s absolutely stunning. Good for diving or snorkelling. Shark ray ally was a really great experience.
Jennifer Bernard — Google review
Amazing. You will see so much wildlife here and the coral does look healthy. The main problem is how many boats are there at one time.
Michael Messenger — Google review
I followed a family of Spotted Eagle Rays here for around 15 minutes. 2 adults and 2 little ones. They did not seem to mind me swimming with them. I was at peace and hypnotised by their grace. Even though I also saw such a diverse range of wildlife here like manatees, sea turtles, sharks and lionfish - the Eagle Rays were the highlight. I saw more stuff here in Belize than the Great Barrier Reef in Aus. Paradise. Anyone into diving simply must come here
Alan Egan — Google review
My wife's favorite snorkel spot so far, swim with nurse sharks, I mean touching and all. Lots of sea life. Bit of a long haul boat ride but yes worth it.
Patrick Cates — Google review
Ok guys if you want an epic experience you have got to add this to your list of things to do. I have done this so many times in the past 5 years. I take every person I can out to do this as it is one of the best experiences ever. The guides are always amazing. It is worth every penny you will spend on this.
Scott Bell — Google review
Hol Chan was amazing and breathtaking! We did a guided snorkeling trip, and this was one of the stops. We swam with sharks and all species of marine life, got to see all the natural coral in the open sea. Definitely recommend this as an excursion if you're looking for something to do. The waters are clear and beautiful, it was amazing!
gualberto jr garza — Google review
An absolute fantastic experience snorkeling here. All kinds of tropical fish, rays, and we even saw a sea turtle. We also swam with the sharks. It was intense but awesome.
Darren Baker — Google review
We all went snorkeling here and were able to see a variety of sea life! We did a booking tour that brought us here. It was fun and busy!
chad ratigan — Google review
A must see and do when you are here. You see nursing sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and all kind of fish swimming along the coral reefs.. beautiful 😍
Susanne Morrison — Google review
I've been snorkeling more than a few times, and this was by far the best experience. The Coral was alive and there was an abundance of marine life. It can get a little crowded out there there are many resorts all coming to this particular reserve due to its quality morning is by far the busiest but the afternoon you may not have as clear of water or visibility. This is a must do if you're in the area there's also divers there but I would much rather recommend Blue Hole over Hol Chan period
Average Joe — Google review
Fantastic spot to snorkel and dive. We have seen many animals like sharks, turtles, sting rays etc. Very clean water and not too crowded. We made a snorkel trip and enjoyed it very much. Highly recommend
Thorsten Siering — Google review
This has been the best snorkeling experience of my life. Certainly trumped Hawaii and the Great Barrier reef in Australia. The way its set up and being able to see the slow yet steady decent of the reef was amazing. Still teeming with life and not but a 10 min boat ride from San Pedro coast.
Tyler liberatore — Google review
Our tour guide was Pepper, very knowledgeable of the sea life, awesome guide! Pepper explained everything to us before getting in the water. He made us feel comfortable. Although I didn’t stay in the water as long as the others, I can say that this was the best experience ever. Thanks Pepper!
(First time in Belize. First time snorkeling)
Cassandra Bou — Google review
Everything was perfect...from pick up to drop off. Kind, funny, professional staff. Bird pointed out sooo many different things and made swimming with sharks safe and exciting!!
Caye Caulker is a coral island with a bohemian past that offers opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing. It is part of a Belize itinerary that also includes Ambergris Caye and the country's interior, where visitors can explore Mayan ruins, go caving, and stay in an eco-lodge in the jungle. Those who prefer to move around less can choose between the two islands.
Awesome island off mainland Belize. Easily accessible by water taxi or ferry from Belize City. Many good restaurants and excursions to keep yourself busy.
Derek — Google review
The kinda place destined to be enjoyed, lose one’s cultural identity, and fall in love with the greatest human opportunity: to protect and preserve our habitat shared in species diversity.
The trees 🌴 of Belize are reason enough to take pause and learn some 🌱 phytobiology! Look up how Cashews grow 🤯 🤩! Yet, of course the myriad blue shades in the sea 🌊 are the draw. To the East, the reef is healthy, as are the locals passionately protecting it and helping arrogance in tourists dissolve into the epic western setting sunsets.
Let go and go slow 🤙🏻
S P Fletcher — Google review
I really enjoyed my stay on this little island. Although my bungalow was very simple and a bit overpriced, it was all worth the trip. Super laid back atmosphere in the lovely and genuinely friendly company of the rasta crew from lazy lizard and raggamufin tours. The snorkeling trip was awesome as we got to see a bunch of wildlife : sharks, turtles, rays, all kinds of fish and coral. Too bad that day visibility wasn't optimal, but hey, nobody's fault
JustForFun KohPhangan — Google review
I went here fo snorkeling, it was amazing experience swimming with sharks. Its also pretty good to just walk on island from one end to other if you aren't into snorkeling
Chandra Kanth Reddy — Google review
So many positives. I first came here for a day trip and missed the last water taxi back to Belize city! It was terrifying to say the least but people living here on the island made sure me and my spouse were okay. We only visit here now and wouldn't change that scary situation one bit! Please come and enjoy this island and it's beautiful people. Just be sure you are respectful and humble when you do please. They have their own worries and don't need anymore from the outside! #BetterBelizeIt
CiCi Glasgow Brown — Google review
If you have children who loves nature, this is the place to bring them for a day of fun besides learning all about stingrays. You can feel and touch these beautiful creatures of the sea while learning about their way of life. A great learning experience for kids and children's
Tina Kay — Google review
Must see on your Belizean trip. My favorite place to take it easy. Enjoy the grilled lobster for sure.
Paul BigFire Roberts — Google review
Beautiful love the friendliness of the people - Iguana Reef where you can learn about sting rays and feed them as well as see the seahorse reseve, & feeding tarpin as well as the split
Ursula Illing-Vinson — Google review
Quaint little island yet it offers a variety of restaurants and bars.
Kathryn Dirkse — Google review
Had a fabulous day snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve off Caye Caulker. Plenty of fishes, marine life and clear water. The operator even arranged for the feeding of nurse sharks which was an amazing spectacle. There are many eateries, souvenir shops and tour operators peppered all over Caye Caulker. A great day of sun, sand and sea
CK Cheong — Google review
The water was marvelous and clear at the far end of island. Be prepared to climb down into the sea. We enjoyed the tour of the island narrated by “Jane” on her golf cart. The SPLIT is an incredible event cause by the destructive forces of nature!
D Eldemire — Google review
It such a go slow laid back 5 mile long little island with so much to offer like,
Snorkeling,fishing,kayaking,hand feeding magnificent friget bird and tarpon & diving.
alfonso magana — Google review
Great vibe on the island, which is split in 2. We stayed at the southern more backpacker vibe Island. The other has more trendy accommodations (I guess it's pricier).
Everything is in walking distance. Nice little food shops/trucks & restaurants, from local cuisine to Chinese, Italian and fast food.
You need to buy the local Belizian breakfast: Fry Jack, it's a flat bread stuffed with your liking at Jenny's for instance. She uses fresh ingredients and bake the bread also when you order.
Petra (Pitch) — Google review
If you would like a to visit a laid-back island, with friendly people, in a very relaxing atmosphere surrounded by exquisite blue green waters with a chance to pet stingrays, see sea horses, herons, and other shore birds, snorkel, and maybe dive, visit Caye Caulker!
Deborah Kehoe — Google review
Amazing place to visit. Mush slower and laid back from Ambergris Caye. Dirt roads and golf carts. Excellent restaurants and bars. And some of the best diving I’ve ever experienced. Would recommend staying at Weezies or Iguana Inn; both are excellent places.
Altun Ha is an ancient Mayan city located in a forested area, one hour north of Belize City. It is the most popular Mayan site in the country due to its numerous traces of Mayan culture, including multiple stone altars and a large expanse of grass. The site is also significant for being home to the largest carved Jade artifact, which depicts Kinich Ahau, the Maya Sun God.
This was the best experience I ever had. I recommend anyone who wants to learn more about the Mayan ruins to visit this place. I enjoyed myself so much. I stayed in Belize for a week and this was the highlight of my day. It's also helps to have a wonderful tour guide and a tour guide that's very knowledgeable which we had
All smiles Over Here Phenomenal — Google review
It was like the many other ruins you find in area. This one is in the middle. There are bigger and there are smaller. If trying to decide which one to visit, this is good choice. If limited on time, you can do this and something else all in 1 day. We were on a cruise and did this and cave Tubing through Royal Belizean Adventures (a local tour group).
Adina Thimm Long — Google review
This is a historic site that can be easily gotten to for disabled people. If you are able to climb, I highly recommend going to the top for the view! An archeologist excavated part of this temple and found the remains of some of the royals. They were buried with jewels which would allow the totals to keep their stature in heaven.
Bonnie Patterson — Google review
A really cool area to see some well maintained Mayan ruins. We spent about an hour there and saw all that's available. A couple short but steep climbs to get to tops of temples. We stopped here early before heading to airport which was perfect amount of time we thought - if you're staying in the southern part of Belize it probably isn't worth a full day trip.
Matt Quinn — Google review
First Mayan Ruins and would go again. It is a beautiful location and a non strenuous adventure. Our tour guide Wallace from Belize Exotic adventures was amazing and informative! He even helped with photos and told us to take as much time as we would like! It was not busy in the morning at all we had the place pretty much to ourselves.
A — Google review
This was one of the best hikes I’ve had. Just looking at these ancient wonders was remarkable. I would recommend waking up early and being one of the first because it gets full. I suggest climbing the pyramids to have a better view and definitely take the walk to the hidden lake just looking at the foliage is like a jungle like feeling. I climb all of them and took many pictures. This is a must go to spot as soon as you get to Belize.
nelson valla — Google review
Impressive Mayan site. Easy access for people who can't get around as much as they used to. Very clean. Our guide was fantastic. We enjoyed learning about Altun Ha. I did climb to the top of the Sun Temple, but it wasn't easy. There are railings to hold on to but, I kept thinking....what if I fall?
Anita Simmons — Google review
Truly epic!!! It felt like I was stepping back in time. Our tour guide was from the area and answered all our questions and gave an awesome retelling of history. 10/10 recommend. Wife said it was better than Talum.
Chris Benham — Google review
Visited this place in august which was off season and we were the only ones there! It’s not a huge place so not much walking. You can climb up some of the temples, really cool. It’s so hot so be prepared with water. Bring BUG SPRAY. They sell some there but probably at double the price. So many bites.
$5 usd per person to enter. No time limit.
We quickly saw it all in about 45 minutes, but you can go with a guide and learn about it all it can take a lot longer.
Some nice souvenir shops around. Very clean bathrooms!
Alessandra Camargo — Google review
You can climb the temples. I came on a tour and it was very informative learning about the Mayan history. The steps are steep though so maybe bring some comfy shoes and not flip flops. It’s also very hot so being sunscreen
Brittany Ibarra — Google review
Altun Ha was amazing. The energy there was magical. Our tour guide was the grandson of the man that discovered the Jade Head and he was both informative and entertaining. I will definitely be going back again.
Samar Gabourel — Google review
Very beautiful, relaxing and grand experience. We went in July, it was extremely quiet. Cheap to get in, very clean and well kept. The ruins were stunning, especially the large sun temple. Few stalls to buy knickknacks outside and a couple spots to get food after. 100% recommended
Travis Gordon — Google review
Beautiful location, one of the cleanest Mayan sites in Belize. Road to it is mostly paved as well which makes it more accessible than other sites. Worth the detour off the highway
Chris Leonard — Google review
Great experience.
Amazing history and impressive designs/ architecture.
The landscape is well kept.
Lots of flies but ir was no problem. It was expected.
Our tour guide was very informative and answer all questions presented.
The store/ shopkeepers all will want you to purchase items but all items are overpriced by at least three times its original BZ cost. They will want Dollars.
In some cases i notice 4 times expensive. And i understand that they want to make a profile but you will feel worse when you get to a store in the city and find the item you bought dor 10 Dollar is really 5 BZ ...
The experience overall was great.
Fenelix K Paulino Jr — Google review
I love visiting Altun Ha. We were surprised and didn’t know that it is free for Belizeans on Sundays. That was a plus. Several little gift shops to choose from. A couple of the ruins had ropes that we couldn’t clime. The weather was extremely hot when we visited. I suggest taking a backpack with water. We did get water right at the entrance though. Was a nice family trip.
Mel Skeen — Google review
Interesting to compare this larger (wider) lock compared to the original lock that we passed through in our cruise ship. Original lock had small tug-trains to pull the ship compared to the larger lock using only large tugboats to assist the large container ships.
Ray Glur — Google review
Alton ha is a small Mayan site in Belize. The ruins are well maintained. The site is only small because a small portion is only excavated and is available to public. If you want to understand what those different buildings were all about , it’s recommended to hire a knowledgeable guide. It’s possible to complete a tour of the complex within a couple of hours
Kaushik Ghosh — Google review
Altun Ha is a well-maintained ancient Mayan ruins. There are several very tall structures that can be climbed safely and easily. The views from the top are fabulous! You only need an hour or so to wander around and climb if you would like.
Leigh Bowie — Google review
Altun Ha was amazing! It was so mesmerizing looking at all the Mayan architecture and feel the spiritual energy surrounding you. It was truly an experience of a lifetime. Visiting has inspired me to go visit other ancient Mayan Ruins. Our tour guide was Onofre and he was superb! Very knowledgeable about the area and the surroundings of Belize city.
Shanta Buffington — Google review
Park, souvenirs shops, toilets were more than ok. Museum is great, its in English so it is easy to understand history of those Mayan buildings. No words for Altun Ha piramides - great. Tour guide was also great and helpful, ready to answer on all questions.
Milos Grujic — Google review
Nov 15, 2023: Visited the Altun Ha Ruins as an excursion offered through Carnival Cruise Line. It is located about 50k/30mi out of Belize City (the 45-ish minute bus ride is worth it). Upon entering the actual grounds for the pyramids, I felt a sense of calm/groundedness - I am really unable to convey the feeling as I have never felt it before. I was able to ascend and descend the multiple ruins fairly easily; it would be difficult for someone with a weak gait and if you utilize a wheelchair/buggy I do not think most of you would be able to access the top of the ruins. PLEASE NOTE that if it is raining the stairs are extremely slippery and they do NOT allow you to climb the ruins at that point (it started raining when we were about to leave, and while I was coming down one of the ruins I slipped a little). This is was my first experience with any type of ancient ruins and it certainly did not disappoint. As with any commercial travel area the vendors do try to hustle you, but I simply stated I was not interested with a firm "no thank you" and kept moving - there is no need to allow it to negatively impact your entire experience/rating.
Mitch H — Google review
This ancient site is just amazing. Our guide was full of knowledge and clearly as a connection to the site and its importance in Mayan culture and trade. The unique location relatively close to the coast and the artifacts discovered at the site are fascinating. I highly recommend a visit if possible. Additionally, this site is not fully excavated with the oldest section still to be explored. I look forward to hearing about future excavations and the knowledge that will be gained.
M Ahern — Google review
Loved the history of it!!! YES you get to climb the ruins if it's not raining. 45 minute bus ride, a few hours to explore and lunch on the way back. I highly recommend this excursion!!!
Phillip Elliott — Google review
Stay away from the food /snack areas.. Would have been 5 stars.. if the snack people weren’t such swindlers ..at one point I didn’t know who I was buying from they need to get it together. Took away from me and our friend’s experience. They will try to rip you off. Very grassy Mayan Ruins. No Cenotes or Bodies of water around.
The Fort Street Tourism Village is a vibrant and colorful harborfront village that houses numerous souvenir shops, bars, and restaurants. It's a must-visit destination for tourists who want to explore the local culture while enjoying delicious meals at one of its four prominent eateries. The area is safe to wander around, and visitors can try out the famous Belizian beer while browsing through the various shops present in the village.
I highly recommend you visit this wonderful place. It was one of our stops on our Carnival cruise 🛳 and we fell in love. The people are kind, and the views are amazing. We took an excursion (planned thought the ship) to one of the islands were we snorkeled, and got to swim with stingrays and sharks. Then we had a beautiful meal by the sea. It was an experience we will never forget.We are thankful they showed us such great hospitality!! AND YOU BETTER BELIZE WE WILL BE VISITING AGAIN VERY SOON!!!❤❤❤❤ps. Ask the locals around there for Freddie, and his tour guide team. They are the best!!
Karina Wade-Gledhill — Google review
A firm 3 stars or even less. First issue was that it’s not a direct docking port. 20 minute shuttle ride from the ship to the port. And the water is normal rougher heading back to the ship later in the evenings. Now that’s an awkward, fun and angry experience depending on who you are and where in the shuttle you sit. Your face and all your contents could be wet in no time.
Sorry for sounding so unfair because I am reviewing the port as a cruise passenger that docked there. For people living in and around the area, they might have a slightly different view. Because, the port do have a lot of restaurants to eat, bars, store, gift shops, micro businesses and more.
I really dislike the fact that it’s hard to find the exit of the complex. Since the exit is where you’d find the local tour offerings and excursions that’s are not necessarily working with the ship but are highly trusted and recommended by the ship to use these services.
That’s was a run on. I’ll say it again. I dislike the fact that the exit is hard to find. Cause the extra excursions and local services was located there. And that’s what I was looking for. Other ports have them more up in your face which is actually a good thing on a cruise.
Other than that. The port wasn’t big at all. Quit small because of the location of the country.
Great country overall. I will recommend anyone to visit. I’ll go again anytime.
Kalando Brown — Google review
We got to see a lot of very cool things in Belize. It is a beautiful place. Make sure you call a local tour company and eat the local food. You won't be sorry. Red beans and rice with chicken.
Jesse (JP) — Google review
Visited one of most un-belizable place.... walk through cruise terminal enter in the downtown area. Safe for tourists. Belizian beer is famous...do give it try.
Govind Joshi — Google review
100 % recommend. The best part of our cruise was spending the day with Mel in Belize. She was wonderful. We got to see dolphins, monkeys, crocodiles, bats and a lot of iguanas. The lunch was delicious. Then we went to Altun Ha. The Mayan Ruins are magnificent ❤️
We're planning on going back.
Yvette Sparkman — Google review
Lots of variety, very friendly locals, good tour options. Must arrive very early to have the opportunity to book the best tour options, as the tours are further out and require a few hours to be able to participate in them.
Andrea Bolivar — Google review
The cruise ships anchor 5 miles from shore. Water shuttles will transport you from ship to shore, about a 15-minute ride. There are stores and restaurants in the tourist area. They even offer free passport stamps. There are swings along the walkway for the young and old to enjoy. Make sure you allow time for the shuttle back to the ship so you don't get left behind!
Stephanie Wells — Google review
Carnival Vista cruise to Beautiful ports of call the People are so Wonderful and Welcoming will be back.
Diane Bungert — Google review
Haven't been to Belize since 2014. When we went then we had a snorkel and beach excursion from Royal Caribbean. Had a beautiful time then. This time I decided to explore the port and all it's shops. They have a ton of shops and just have to look around for better pricing. Some shops were highly priced while another with same merchandise was substantially less. There was a lot of buying going on by everyone. They also had a DJ with good music. Food flowing and drinks everywhere. Had a wonderful time. Also this port you have to tender I to. Meaning a smaller vessel come out to the ship your on and takes you by boat about 20-25 minute ride ashore. Saw some dolphins swimming as well. Smaller ships are not to bad waiting however I do believe bigger ships like Oasis class would be a nightmare waiting with so many people going ashore. My advice would be to do Serenade of the Seas. We didn't wait long at all going or coming back.
Dorothy Norris Partain — Google review
Lots of shops. Some good photo spots. You will have to take a tender (shuttle) from your ship. Beware, like most of the ports, you get alot of pressure from shop owners, tour companies, etc.
william morey — Google review
Loved it! Went on a Carnival Cruise and this place is beautiful! Spent a few hours walking the shops and bought drinks, coconuts, mango and chicharrones. Kids enjoyed the island!
Jorge L. Flores — Google review
This area is definitely a tourist trap with higher prices than other ports. But often the best shopping is in Mexico where you can bargain with vendors if you or someone you’re with speak Spanish.
Jake Robins — Google review
The area is OK overall. Lots of tourist trap types of experience. My kids were saddened by the "junk" we bought they were told the jewelry glowed it was just cheap paint. Like most places, they try to get you asap. You gotta know how to say no and look around for a bit. Lots to do if you have a bit of time and go away from the main area.
Jonathan Gutierrez — Google review
Nice walk to excursions! I took a pedicab from the Regal Princess to the street where I found many options for excursions. I choose the float down the river through caves. This was a 1 hours drive to the river. There was a 45 minute jungle walk with 3 river crossings to get to the floating. Helmets, life jacket and big tube provided. You need sturdy water shoes for the hike and float!
Jeanne Dorrance — Google review
I was able to experience this beautiful place because of the Carnival cruise line. The port was small but nice. We had to take a tender boat just to get off the ship. I'm not complaining, but it's not good if you are disabled. Again worth it we didn't do any excursions here, but we did tour the city of Belize and the Rum factor. The locals are kind and friendly They have plenty of shops to visit to purchase souvenirs. OMG the food and drinks were amazing. They also have plenty of photo spots. If you find this review helpful..Please click the LIKE button
Chandra Richmond — Google review
Nice small port of Belize, where you get dropped off by tender from your cruise ship. Lots of shops, but a bit pricey compared to shops outside.
Don't get tempted to book your excursions inside the port village ( just check the price), walk outside and you can get them for half price, that is what I did and it worked out very well for us.
Velu Balasubaramanian — Google review
Nice port alot of local options to choose from drink, souvenirs hair braiding and just meeting local people and food of course
The Belize Zoo, established in 1983, serves as a sanctuary for native animals that are orphaned or have been rehabilitated. Unlike traditional zoos which operate as maximum-security prisons for wildlife, the Belize Zoo provides natural habitats to its many rare species such as tapirs, coatimundi and pumas along with other exotic animals.
Excellent experience, very friendly staff. It wasn't to busy when we're there, the majority of animals there are rescue ones, I think this is something amazing, well done to everyone who works at this Zoo, they do a very good job, the place is very clean and the animals are very look after. All are so happy to assist you if you need, its free wifi around the place.
Restaurant its a good option for a bite after the walk. The place is small but had a very good variety of animals.
Hoggustina Hoop — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit to the Belize Zoo!
It was our first day in Belize, journeying from the Airport to San Ignacio, and what a way to begin our adventure. You can clearly tell that the people of the zoo truly care about their animals from everything from the enclosures to their sweet signs.
It is a great way to get a taste of Belizean wildlife as all of the animals have been found within Belize and being rehabilitated.
Highly recommend!
Megan Swilley — Google review
The animals are well looked after here. They have huge enclosures and are given the opportunity to have some privacy from people. The staff at the zoo were also really informative and friendly. If you want to do something extra special you can volunteer to look after the animals giving you the opportunity to get up close and personal with them. I think this is probably the best zoo I've been to where the welfare of the animal is first and foremost. I highly recommend visiting this zoo.
Vanessa B — Google review
Fairly small but in the right ways 1.5-2.5 hours is sufficient. Very intimate. Loved the Jaguar bridge above the walkway! Admission would have been worth it just for seeing the Tapir during feeding.
Brady Franklin — Google review
We LOVED it. All the animals are being rehabilitated, which is so great. Unlike other zoos, this setting truly is jungle. Down to the bugs (wear bug spray). There are amazing animals all around. Of course you'll love the leopard, toucan, and the snakes. But you'll be surprised and delighted be the other birds, like the Harpy Eagle, and the ocelots (listen to them grunt!), Owls (they'll hoot), and the pelicans (flapping to their wings like crazy in the water). Do take the time to read the signs, they are both funny and informative.
Mini Rag — Google review
A very cool little zoo. We went from opening time til about noon. We got to see the tapirs eat. We paid for a meet and greet with one of the jaguar and it was 1000% worth it. It was awesome being able to read about each animal's story and how the zoo rescued them. The signs were also funny as heck.
Loan Chung (Pikaloan) — Google review
If this is on your way somewhere it’s a nice stop; but I would not go out of your way. It’s $15 USD per person. $5 for kids under 12.
It’s more of a refugee center than a normal zoo. Your admission goes towards feeding the animals which is nice. A few jaguars, lots of birds and lots of tapirs. Bring so much bug spray. There’s a gift shop that’s a bit overpriced and a small cafe with ice cream and drinks that are very affordable. Clean bathrooms.
Alessandra Camargo — Google review
Small zoo showcasing native Belize fauna in naturalistic settings. Needs better signage. Good food and drink. Has a gift shop.
Glen Jacobsen — Google review
We had a lovely morning at the zoo. It is packed with animals. It is much better if you get there for feeding time (10am-11am for us) as a lot of the animals are easier to see when they are being fed. We had lunch there. They have a good variety of local foods and cold drinks. Bring big spray as the zoo is like walking through a rainforest.
Matthew Henderson — Google review
This zoo is so cool, we came here to check out all the local wildlife and it did not disappoint, the gift shop is great, they've got a refreshments area and the zoo itself is built around the animals in their natural habitats. There's plenty of experiences to feed the animals and some get up close and personal. I had a great time and can't wait to go back.
Isabel Mastrangelo — Google review
Beautiful wildlife rescue and education centre. Very affordable activities like feeding the tapir and red macaws. Incredible animals, well looked after. Highly was seeing the Jaguar and harpy eagle - just amazing.
E R — Google review
Quite nice. Bring your water and cool wet towels. In addition to the animals, we loved the zoos down to earth and witty signage that made you laugh 😃! Can you find the "kitty kitty " in the photos with green foliage??
Thomas Reeber — Google review
Delightful! We loved that all the animals are rescued, not stolen from the wild, and you can often get great views of them. The clever signage explains more about each animal and how it came to the zoo. We were glad we had a guided tour; our guide was able to find and point out the shy animals, and he knew his way around the zoo's winding paths.
Linnea Crowther — Google review
Small but nice zoo for rescued animals. Paths between enclosures are well laid out, lush and beautiful to walk through. Staff are all very friendly and helpful. There's a restaurant and gift store on site. We didn't do a tour or animal encounter but there are some available. We spent about an hour here but it was hot and we were using the location as a rest stop
Donella Held — Google review
They call this the best little zoo. It really is. The animal habitats were very nice and represented their environment well. It was great seeing animals that I had never seen before.
Spacey J. — Google review
The Belize Zoo has always been an amazing place to visit ..even more so for young minds. Our children had a great time, and after a great walk about the grounds , the little restaurant serves affordable and delicious foods.
Absolutely worth the drive to see the animals of Belize .
stanley gideon — Google review
The zoo is absolutely incredible! Such an amazing origin story! You get to see animals all native to Belize, all of them are there because they were rescued and unable to be returned to the wild, so they get to live happy healthy lives and represent their species and bring awareness to the detrimental effects of deforestation and poaching.
The zoo was easy to get to on the local bus system, and there is a small cafe where you can get some food and drink.
Moriah Wilbur — Google review
All the animals are from Belize and have been relocated to the zoo due to extenuating circumstances. The enclosure are native to the animals environment and mostly large enough to hide from visitors if desired. For an extra fee we were given the opportunity to feed Edgar the jaguar chicken provided by his keeper at the zoo. He had lost his eye to cancer, but they have been able to save his life and provide the necessary care he requires. Looked healthy and had a beautiful fur pattern coat.
S Sorrick — Google review
We stayed in a pond house and did the night time tour. Amazing doesn’t even describe the whole experience. The night tour was 100% worth it. Everyone was so knowledgeable. It was great to hear the history of the zoo and of all the animals we saw. A definite must do when in Belize!
Christina Biggs — Google review
A must-do in Belize. Literally the best zoo I have ever been to. Very walkable and easy to fit in, only took a couple hours. The jaguar experience was my favorite part, reasonably priced to have a very up close experience that contributes directly to the animals. They care deeply about conservation and all animals were in large enclosures that seemed very natural and comfortable for them. Also they are all rescues/rehabilitated that couldn’t survive in the wild on their own making the zoo an opportunity for them to live in peace.
Kennedy Combs — Google review
The zoo was wonderful. It's like stepping into the jungle, without the risks. It's well worth paying extra to arrange the guided tour. The guide knows all the animal's favorite hiding places and where you can get the best views of them. He made sure we got to see everything. He also had a lot of insights to the animal's history and behaviors. I would absolutely do it again. I recommend bringing water, as the only place to get any is at the souvenir and restraunt area at the end. Also wear sturdy shoes as there is a lot of walking and a few uneven paths.
Samantha Coty — Google review
We stayed one night in Casita and did the nocturnal tour at the zoo. Everything was amazing and I wish we had planned more time here! The grounds are beautiful, the food was excellent, and our guest house was spacious and quiet. Juan Carlos was very helpful and a great birder. We were surrounded by wildlife and jungle sounds. I would have loved more time to explore the trails and relax in the hammock.
Sarah M — Google review
We enjoyed visiting a zoo that felt more 'natural' in the space and environment afforded to its animals. Not a huge area, but well worth a 1-2 walk. Especially appreciate that the animals here are either rehabilitated by the zoo, or are for some other reason unable to live in the wild
Campbell MacLean — Google review
The Belize Zoo was the highlight of our trip! We stayed at TEC which is just down the road from the Zoo and has a shuttle to bring you back and forth. They arranged our transportation from the airport and to our next destination. The staff members were very friendly and our 1-night stay included dinner and breakfast. They were able to accommodate a gluten allergy for someone in our group and the dessert with dinner was a hit! Our room had AC, our own bathroom, and no bugs. I would highly recommend both the VIP morning tour & night tour. You get unique and up-close experiences with animals you can’t get anywhere else. Everyone who works there is very knowledgeable and clearly cares about the animals.
Lily G — Google review
On our trip to Belize, we visited the Zoo. We enjoyed seeing the wildlife native to the region. Also, it was wonderful to read the stories of the many rescues of animals they had made throughout the years.
Jude Tegen — Google review
Coolest zoo I've ever been to. Read up about the history and mission of the zoo, it's definitely not your run of the mill zoo. It's quite small, but in the best way. Also, very affordable. Ask about the Jaguar experiences when you're purchasing your ticket!
Amanda Stanek — Google review
I stayed in a Forest Cabana, which is no A/C (but has a strong fan) and "shared" bathroom - it's 4 showers, 4 toilets, and 4 sinks for 10 cabanas. When I was there only other cabana was occupied, so it was fine!
Nadine, Carlos, Melvin and the rest of the TEC staff were all so kind and helpful. You ARE in the tropics - there are scorpions, etc but if you ask at the office, they will remove - no charge (haha!!). Dinner and breakfast were incredible, and they do make accommodations for veg/vegan, gluten, anything you need.
It was wonderful to take the night tour of the zoo (and I got to help feel Indy and the porcupine!) and then come back the next day to see all of the daytime friends as well.
Lisa Feinman — Google review
All rescued animals with great stories, you can get a GPS map on your phone to make sure to see everyone. We went in the hottest part of the day so everyone was sleeping and still but it was lunchtime too so got to see crocodiles eat!