Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is a region that emerges from dreams: Abundant sun, deep blue beaches, beautiful archaeological sites and amazing nature. Our exploratory journey takes us from the glamorous city of Cancun to the picturesque towns of Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Valladolid, as well as the irresistible islands of Isla Mujeres and Cozumel and the stunning coastal village of Rio Lagartos.
Mexico
Cancun: First visit in Mexico
3 nights stay at Selina Cancun Hotel Zone
Arriving at the Cancun airport, we booked a rental car, since the remaining 15 days included a road trip with powerful images and experiences. Our flight was from Athens had a stopover in France. Our tickets cost €650/person for 15 days in July 2021.
We started from Cancun and dove into the world of dreams. The clear blue waters of the Caribbean welcomed us with open arms, with the luxurious resorts creating a fairytale setting. Cancun’s beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming and underwater exploration, with coral and fish abounding and exciting. In our opinion, Cancun is not worth many overnight stays as it does not reflect the authentic Mexican atmosphere. It receives a large volume of tourists and we could easily compare it to Miami.
Mexico
Isla Mujeres: The Island of Women – A Golf Cart Adventure in the South of the Island
From the port of Cancun, Punta Sam you can reach Isla Mujeres, a small paradise island with clear blue waters and sandy beaches, which even the locals choose for their holidays. The island offers incredible opportunities for swimming, snorkeling and relaxation.
The same day, we visited the dreamy island of Isla Mujeres, the island of women, which welcomed us with its salty aroma and crystal beaches. This island is truly surrounded by natural beauty and enchanting landscapes.
When we arrived, we had the opportunity to live an unforgettable adventure by renting a golf cart to explore the southern parts of the island. After disembarking from the ferry at the port of Isla Mujeres, we rented a golf cart for 20 euros for an hour so that we could cross the island in comfort.
As we moved south, we stopped at a small beach that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard, with sugar-white sand and waters that shimmer in shades of blue. In just 20 minutes we reached the famous Punta Sur, the cape of Isla Mujeres. There is the historic lighthouse, which is a reference point for locals and visitors. The panoramic view from here is amazing, with the endless blue sea meeting the horizon and the sky.
The hours flew by as we explored Isla Mujeres in our golf cart. Away from the tourist pressure, we felt the true taste of local life and discovered the authentic beauty of this enchanting island.
With hearts full of excitement and memories, we returned to the port of Isla Mujeres, leaving the island of women behind. Isla Mujeres is an island that deserves more than one day visit.
Mexico
Τulum: The Enchanting Ancient City on the Wave
3 nights stay at Αcinte by Endemico
Our road continued to the Caribbean coast and the archaeological site of Tulum, a dazzling link to the past. Tulum is one of the most expensive cities to visit in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, with locals avoiding it for vacations. Like our own Mykonos! It used to be one of the most picturesque and beautiful cities of the peninsula. However, the touristic demand and development has greatly changed the shape of this city. Nevertheless, it is still a place worth spending the night, for as many days as your pocket can handle!
Tulum Archaeological Site – Tulum of the Maya
Tulum is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Mexican peninsula, with the city built on a hill above the sea. The panoramic landscape combines Mayan architectural creations with the calm blue of the Caribbean, offering a sense of magic.
Exploring Tulum culminates with free time on its stunning beaches. The golden shores and calm waters of the Caribbean captivate the senses and offer a rejuvenating respite. Unfortunately, in July when we visited Tulum, it had a huge volume of algae that made it difficult for you to enter and enjoy the sea. But we certainly enjoyed the tranquility and the beauty of the landscape around us.
In Tulum you will have the opportunity to dive into an impressive natural, underground pool, the Cenote Calavera Tulum.
Tulum is one of the most impressive travel destinations of the Mexican peninsula, combining archaeology, cultural heritage and dazzling nature. It is particularly expensive, as to have access to any beach you have to pay an entrance fee almost everywhere. You have to be very careful not to spend a lot of money unnecessarily.
Mexico
Playa del Carmen: The Vibrant Traveler’s Destination
3 nights stay at Singular Joy
Playa del Carmen is a lively city that combines nightlife with a sandy beach. The restaurants, bars and shops on the pedestrian street of Quinta Avenida invite you to discover Mexican culture and gastronomy. Don’t forget to visit the seaside parks Xcaret and Xel-Há for unique water activities.
Cozumel: Another great island in Mexico
Cozumel is another great island known for its underwater explorations. Within 20′ by car you arrive from Playa del Carmen to the port of Punta Venado (Calica) in order to cross to the island of Cozumel. Corals, turtles and abundant marine life make this place a paradise for lovers of underwater culture.
In the heart of Cozumel, we had the opportunity to meet dolphins, those wonderful creatures of the sea that most of us adore. In a specially designed space, we had the opportunity to swim next to them, feel the rhythm of their life and immerse ourselves in the harmony of the sea. Our contact with these beautiful and intelligent creatures was at 60€/person, but it was an unfrogettable experience thatleft us with indelible memories.
However, Cozumel is much more than just a swimming with dolphins. This island is so multidimensional that it is not possible to explore it in a single day. With a rich history and unique landscapes, Cozumel invites you to devote more time to discover all its beauties.
From beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters to cultural attractions and adventurous activities, the island of Cozumel is a destination that rewards dedication and discovery. A day is just a taste of the richness and beauty that Cozumel offers to every traveler who visits.
Mexico
Valladolid: The City of Cultural Heritage
4 nights stay at Waye-Hotel de Aqui
As we tour the Yucatan Peninsula, the city of Valladolid emerges as a cultural treasure that captures the diverse history of the region. Valladolid is a charming city with strong Spanish characteristics and a rich history. The magnificent central square, the colorful houses and the cathedral of San Servacio offer a taste of the cultural heritage of the area.
During our stay in the lovely city of Valladolid, we visited its central square, the “Plaza Mayor”, which is the focal point of the city. It is where locals gather to enjoy the atmosphere and fellowship.
One of the main attractions of the city is the emblematic temple “Temple de San Servacio”, a Catholic temple built in the 16th century, distinguished for its architectural beauty and its contribution to the cultural wealth of the region. Look for and walk the cobbled street “Calzada de los Frailes”. There, you will have the opportunity to discover local art and crafts in small workshops and shops, as well as beautiful cafes, restaurants and bars.
However, our experience in Valladolid was not limited to just exploring the city. One of our days were dedicated to an excursion to the Chichen-Itza archaeological site which is one of the most impressive and important Mayan sites. Chichen-Itza’s impressive monuments and buildings moves you back to ancient times, when the area was a center of Mayan culture and spirituality. The iconic El Castillo, or the Pyramid of Kukulcan, is one of Mexico’s most important archaeological symbols.
After a rich day in history and culture, we returned to Valladolid with a sense of excitement and gratitude. Our visit to the Chichen-Itza archaeological site helped us understand the depth of the history of the area, while the city of Valladolid offered us an authentic insight into the daily life and tradition of Mexico.
Mexico
Rio Lagartos: Nature in all its glory
As our journey to the Yucatan Peninsula continued, we arrived at Rio Lagartos, a coastal village known for its rich biodiversity and the unique crocodile experience, in flesh. This incredibly beautiful place offers a unique experience of connecting with nature, revealing the majesty of wildness.
As we crossed the waters of the protected part of the Rio Lagartos, nature awakens before you with its beautiful variety. The unique lagoons and wetlands of the area are a natural refuge for many species of birds, including the spectacular pink flamingos. Here, you will have the opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural environment.
The highlight of our visit to Rio Lagartos was boating in the waters of the bay. You can book a boat on the spot as soon as you arrive at the small port of the village. You have endless options! We had the chance to see alligators at close range as we approached the wildness of nature. The alligators, with their unique way of moving, left us speechless in front of their unprecedented beauty.
Rio Lagartos does not only offer unsurpassed experiences in nature. After a day full of adventures, we tried their local cuisine. The captain suggested us a small tavern in the bay where we enjoyed fresh fish at an incredibly low price.
Our experience at Rio Lagartos highlights the coexistence of humans with wild nature and the unparalleled beauty it can offer. This wonderful place combines amazing fauna and flora with an authentic taste of Mexican culture, creating a magical coexistence of nature and man.
Mexico
Discovering the Mysterious Cenotes in Mexico
During our exploratory trip to the Yucatan Peninsula we could not miss visiting some of the impressive cenotes that correspond to water sources and have formed a unique natural location in the underworld.
Cenotes are also an important part of the cultural heritage of the indigenous people, as they were used in ancient rituals and ceremonies. Our visit to these unique locations gave us an insight into the history and culture of this amazing region.
The cenotes were an unexpected and unique experience during our trip, adding another level of magic and beauty to our already amazing Yucatan Peninsula adventure.
Read more about Cenotes, here.
Our road trip to the Yucatan Peninsula was an unforgettable adventure, a discovery of the magical world of Mexico. From the beaches of Cancun to the ancient Mayan villages and wonderful marine experiences, this region leaves you with indelible memories and the desire to return again and discover more of its secrets.
Mexico
