14 Sights of Cancun worth visiting
Located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, the Mexican city of Cancun is one of the world’s top resorts. The mild maritime climate, snow-white beaches, azure water – once you get here, you can completely forget about the daily hustle and bustle of everyday life. Infrastructure of hotels, restaurants, entertainment facilities is also at the highest level.
The history of the city goes back thousands of years to the origins of the Mayan civilization – no wonder that many of the attractions of Cancun are connected with this mysterious empire.
Dolphin Beach – for lovers of high waves
Beach Dolphin Beach.
The magnificent Delfines Beach is located at the highest point of Cancun. From here you have magnificent views of the sea and the city itself. It has everything for a wonderful holiday: sun loungers, umbrellas, cabins for changing, toilets.
The main feature of the beach is the high waves. Some people think it is a disadvantage, but for fans of surfing and windsurfing it is a real boon! On the waves it is so pleasant to engage in their favorite hobby: professionals easily conquer the ridges, and beginners master the first lessons with an experienced instructor.
Address: Playa Delfines, Punta Nizuc – Cancún, Sona Otelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
The Ancient City of Chichen Itza – Mexican Mecca for tourists
Ancient city of Chichen Itza. | Photo: Trans World Productions / Flickr.
Chichen Itza is one of the most mysterious and enigmatic places on the planet. Scientists still can not understand why in the 12th century, the population suddenly left their homes. There are still many unique historical sites: the huge pyramid of Kukulkan, temple of warriors, temple of jaguars, a sacred well, where they threw the sacrificial animals.
Going to visit Chichen Itza, it is important to take care about comfortable clothes, shoes and a must-have hat: under the scorching sun is so easy to get heat stroke. You can buy souvenirs and original products with national colors from the merchants who meet here practically at every step.
Address: Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.
Museum of the Maya – a modern exposition of the ancient civilization
Mayan Museum.
The Mayan Museum is a must-see attraction. On an area of more than 5 thousand square meters are hundreds of exhibits. The museum has three exhibition areas. The first one is devoted to the archaeology of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The second hall tells about the cultural heritage of the Maya. The third hall has temporary exhibitions devoted to the main theme of the museum.
The collection consists of cult items and everyday objects of the tribe. Jewelry, weapons, jade products, funerary masks – each exhibit is thousands of years old! On the area in front of the museum is an open-air exhibition. Here you can see the Great Pyramid, the Temple of Dragons and the ancient Temple of Chaak.
Address: Museo Maya de Cancún y Zona Arqueológica de San Miguelito, Boulevard Cuculcán, Sona Othelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
The ruins of del Rey are a valuable archaeological site
Ruins del Rey.
Historians claim that the site where the ruins of Del Rey are located today were inhabited as early as 900 B.C.. At that time it was a large settlement, of which today the ruins of 47 buildings remain. The Mayan temple, the cemetery, where the most important people were buried, part of the central market, ceremonial buildings – archaeologists had to do a lot of work so that today tourists can see the one-of-a-kind buildings.
There are remnants of paintings and frescoes on some fragments. The atmosphere is extraordinary, and in the midst of the ancient ruins, it seems that time has stood still.
Address: El Rey Archaeological Zone, Sona Othelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Torre Escenica observation deck – the tallest tower in the city
View from the observation deck of Torre Escenica.
The observation deck is 110 meters high, which is the highest point in Cancun. Its uniqueness is in the fact that the structure is a large glazed booth that slowly rotates, allowing tourists to look around without any physical effort.
The platform can hold 60 people at a time. The panorama of the Caribbean Sea in front of your eyes is simply amazing.
Address: Torre Escénica Cancun, Blvd. Kukulkan, Kukulcan Boulevard, Sona Otelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Underwater Sculpture Museum – the best entertainment for divers
Museum of Underwater Sculptures.
Diving is hugely popular in Cancun: many seek to dive into the clear lagoon to see the picturesque underwater world playing with a multitude of colors. In addition to colorful algae, amazing fish and exotic sea creatures, divers have the opportunity to explore the museum of underwater figures.
On the bottom is a whole complex of unique sculptures created by talented architects. In addition to the sculptures, you can see exhibits in full size at the depths: a car, a table, an underwater mine and even a house.
Those who are not fans of diving also have the opportunity to see an unusual exhibition – just buy a ticket to a special semi-submersible boat. Through the portholes, the exposition appears as on the palm of your hand. All those who have been on this tour, claim that the place has a mystical attraction.
Address: Museo Subacuático de Arte, Alfredo V. Bonfil, Kukulcan Boulevard, Sona Otelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
The ruins of Yamil Luum – “the hilly land.”
The ruins of Yamil Luum.
Historians believe that Yamil Luum was the most important religious center for the Maya tribe. The main temples are the Temple of the Scorpion and the Temple of the Hand. The walls of the former are decorated with figures of scorpions; the latter had hand prints everywhere.
Today, the floors and part of the walls remain of the former grandiose structures, but even these fragments are enough to feel their former power and grandeur. Once upon a time, the temples alerted locals to an impending storm or tempest: the walls were built in such a way that when the wind hit inside, it created a piercing whistle. Entrance to the ruins is free for tourists.
Address: Yamil Lu’um Archeological Site, Boulevard of Kukulcan, El Rey, Sona Othelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Plaza de Toros Arena – the epitome of Mexican culture
Arena Plaza de Toros.
Every Wednesday, the legendary Plaza de Toros Arena, the site of the famous spectacular bullfights, opens its doors to guests. The show is accompanied by loud Mexican music and rousing dances of the charros cowboys.
Those who want to not only watch the show, but to participate in it, have the opportunity to do so! For a fee you can wear a torero costume and go to the bullring. The bull in this case is young and not too experienced, and professional matadors are there to back you up.
Address: Plaza de Toros Cancún, Sona Othelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Women’s Island – a popular resort in Mexico
Isla de las Mujeres.
All travelers who have ever been to Isla de la Mujeres say it has a totally unique atmosphere. The quiet, measured life of a small fisherman’s village disposes to a relaxing vacation in a corner of paradise with a clear sea, clean beaches, beautiful palm trees. You can always try delicious dishes from fresh seafood in one of the local restaurants.
The island got its name after the first European, who came here, found statues of half-naked girls on the coast. To make tourists not be bored, locals have created a special program. Everyone can do scuba diving, climb the observation tower, roll down the mountain on a carabineer, attached to a special cable.
Address: Isla Mujeres, Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
The ancient city of Tulum – a unique Mayan fortress
The ancient city of Tulum.
Tulum attracts tourists with its ancient ruins, tropical nature and luxurious beaches. You can visit the ruins on your own or with a group, in the latter case, the guide will tell you many interesting and curious facts about the history of the city, which began in the 1st century AD.
The complex of buildings is very diverse. The ruins of the Temple of the Winds, the Temple of Frescoes, the huge El Castillo Palace and the watchtowers located on the edges of the fortress wall have been preserved. Tourists combine sightseeing of archaeological monuments with swimming in the sea: the beaches here are extraordinarily beautiful and picturesque. Pictures from the coast turn out very bright and saturated.
Address: Zona Arqueológica de Tulum, Cancun – Chetumal, Zona Hotelera Tulum, 307, Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Ixcaret Park is a paradise for lovers of the exotic.
Ixcaret Park.
Everyone who enters Ixcaret Park is immersed in an atmosphere of entertainment, rides, and cultural activities, all set against a backdrop of vibrant tropical nature. There is a huge natural reserve, where amazing plants grow and extraordinary beauty of birds and butterflies live.
Everyone can visit the underground tunnels, see the real coral reefs, examine the unique fragments of antiquity and take part in enchanting evening shows. In the park Shkaret is always fun and interesting.
Address: Ixcaret Park, Solidaridad, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Shel-Ha Park is a great place to relax
Shel-Ha Park.
The main feature of the huge, beautiful park is the natural body of water. The lagoon is home to various members of the aquatic world: dolphins, manatees, stingrays. The park has two main areas: nature and outdoor activities.
Lovers of quiet walks can stroll through this jungle and enjoy the magnificent scenery. For those who are used to spending time actively, provides diving lessons, bike rides and even jumping off cliffs. To see everything Shel-Ha is famous for, you need to spend at least a day here. It will be remembered as one of the most unforgettable and impressive experiences of a lifetime.
Address: Parque Xel-Há, Carretera Chetumal Puerto Juárez Km 240, locales 1 & 2, módulo B, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
The Dolphinarium Interactive Aquarium
An interactive dolphinarium aquarium.
One of the shopping and entertainment centers in Cancun has an interactive aquarium-dolphinarium. Visitors are offered swimming sessions with dolphins and sea lions. You can also watch the behavior of real sharks (all activities are carried out in complete safety).
The huge aquariums, housing hundreds of species of bright tropical fish, are a real delight for all guests. There are exciting daily shows featuring various sea creatures.
Address: Interactive Aquarium Cancún, Boulevard Cuculcán, La Isla, Sona Otelera, Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Isla de Cosumel – Mexico’s largest island
Isla de Cosumel.
One of the best resorts in the country has gained popularity because of the incredible beauty of the underwater world. Here is the second largest coral reef in the world. Divers of all levels can dive under the water: experienced divers dive on their own, beginners – accompanied by an instructor.
Very interesting excursion on a comfortable boat with a transparent bottom – such an acquaintance with the depths does not require diving. The island is ideal for visiting at any time of year.
Address: Cosumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
It took about fifty years for a small fishing village to turn into a major popular resort, where thousands of tourists from all over the world come every year. There are excellent conditions for beach holidays, a lot of interesting entertainment, cozy restaurants, discos and clubs working around the clock. The azure Caribbean Sea is known for its clearest, most transparent water. Cancun is rapidly changing, but the atmosphere of hospitality and warmth remain the same.
Cancun
Cancun is a resort located on the Riviera Maya coast in Mexico. With its snow-white beaches, turquoise water and emerald palm trees, it resembles a desktop picture. In addition to beach holidays, the oasis of Cancun in Mexico offers great opportunities for recreational activities, nightlife and shopping. That is why it is definitely worth including in your trip around the country.
Geography and Climate of Cancun
This popular tourist area is one of the top 10 best resort cities in the world. Despite this, many tourists still do not know what country Cancun is located in. It is located in southeastern Mexico on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
In addition to where Cancun is, tourists wonder what the climate is like in this part of the country. Regardless of the time of year, there is always warm mild weather. It rains in Cancun and the surrounding islands only from May to November. The annual rainfall is 1,300 mm. The maximum temperature (+41.5 °C) in Cancun and the Caribbean as a whole is recorded in August, and the minimum (+9.5 °C) in March.
History of Cancun
According to scientists, the region has long been closely linked to the mysterious Mayan civilization. On the map of the world Cancun appeared only in the XVIII century. In translation from the Mayan language its name means “magic snake” or “snake throne.
Until the 70s it was just a small fishing village, and then it became the real Cancun, as we know it today. In 2010 it officially became the largest resort in the country. Now Cancun, Mexico, the photo of which is shown below, has a population of 743 thousand people.
Attractions and Entertainment in Cancun
This resort city has many opportunities for outdoor activities. Tourists interested in what to see in Cancun should visit:
Most of the attractions of Cancun in Mexico are related to the Mayan civilization. The nature of the region is no less interesting. Cancun has many parks that showcase the richness of the local flora and fauna. They are located both in and around the city itself. To arrange a tour in Cancun, you can contact your hotel reception or a travel agency.
Beach recreation and diving in Cancun
The coastline of this resort town stretches for 20 km. The attractiveness of Cancun is that there are no distinctive weather seasons. For this reason, the rest here can be planned at any time of year. Even in winter, the water in the sea off the coast of Cancun warms up to +25 ° C. During the summer it is even warmer.
All beaches in Cancun are free and at the same time characterized by a developed infrastructure. There are areas with waves for surfers and no waves – for beach holidays. Fans of scuba diving, resting in Cancun, can go to explore the ocean. Due to the transparency of the water will be able to appreciate the variety of the underwater world.
Some tourists sign up for a deep dive to see the underwater museum Muse, which is the unofficial symbol of Cancun and the whole of Mexico.
Hotels in Cancun
Holidays in this resort city are popular with residents of different countries. Upon arrival in Cancun they can stay in the following hotels:
- Le Blanc;
- NIZUC;
- Hyatt Ziva;
- Secrets The Vine;
- Royal Service at Paradisus, etc.
They cost between $325 and $1,000. Tourists in Cancun can also find guest houses that cost $20 to stay in.
Restaurants in Cancun
The resort differs from other cities in the country in that most of its establishments specialize exclusively in classic Mexican cuisine. To try the traditional tacos, chilaquiles, posole, or tamales, you should visit the following restaurants in Cancun:
If you wish, you can find American, Italian or even Japanese establishments here. Lovers of nightlife will enjoy a large number of clubs in Cancun. Local institutions are considered some of the best in the world. The most popular disco Cancun held in a club Coco Bongo.
Shopping in Cancun
This city has a large selection of stores where you can buy memorable gifts and souvenirs. A good reminder of a vacation in Cancun will be:
- Tequila and mescal (a drink made from agave);
- masks, figures, and other items associated with Mayan culture;
- embroidered sombreros and ponchos;
- hammocks.
In addition to authentic souvenirs, you can buy brand name clothing, shoes and other products. You can do this by going to the Old Village of Cancun, to the open markets, or to the stores in the hotel area.
Transportation in Cancun
In a city of more than 700,000 people, the best way to get around is by cab and bus. Cancun buses run 24 hours a day, at 5-7 minute intervals. They can take you from hotels to famous attractions, the city center, and major shopping malls.
For intercity travel, Cancun has an airport, 14 km from the city, and a seaport.
How to get to Cancun?
This city is one of the best resorts in the world. That is why many tourists upon arrival in Mexico immediately wonder how to get to Cancun. From Moscow to this resort town you can take a direct flight, though the flight is not more than 2 times a month. If you fly to Cancun through the U.S., you’ll need an American visa. For this reason it is better to get here via Europe.
From Mexico City to Cancun you can fly with Volaris or Interjet. Flights are 1-2 times a day and the flight lasts 2 hours. You can take shuttles, buses, or cabs from the airport to downtown Cancun. They form right outside the airport terminal.
You can also get from Mexico City to Cancun by car. To do this, take the México 150D road. The distance of 1700 km can be covered in 20 hours.
