OFF THE BEATEN TRACK MAYAN RIVIERA

The Mexican Caribbean, called the Mayan Riviera is renowned for beautiful pristine, white, sandy beaches, lavish resorts, and tropical weather. Visitors are content to spend their days here with sun and surf, while in the evening they enjoy fine dining and an active nightlife. However, if you are looking for a more active and adventurous escape, this region is also fascinating with many activities available. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or simply to walk in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans, the Mayan riviera has it all. Here are some of the activities available: 

 

Climb a Mayan Pyramid 

The Mayan people once native to this area have left their mark on the region with many examples of their civilization still visible today. Notably, the most famous being Chichen Itza, a once massive, and populated city.  These incredible pyramids are an impressive rival to what you can find on Egypt! 

Chichen Itza

Swim in a Cenote 

Once believed to be the entrance to the Mayan underworld, cenotes are underground caverns that are filled with water. Visitors to the Riviera Mayan Riviera will find many opportunities to take a refreshing dip in their waters and learn more about their historical and traditional uses. Those who simply want a swim and have a fun experience should check out Cenote Maya. But if you want to dive deeper into the local history and culture, Chaak Tun is possibly the better option. 

Cenote

Go Snorkelling or Scuba Diving 

The Mayan Riviera is an excellent destination for snorkellers and due to its fabulous location along the Caribbean Coast. Just off the coast of Cozumel you can find he 2nd largest barrier reef in the world, which is home to hundreds of species of fish within its warm, crystal clear waters.  Cancun offers the chance to swim through the legendary Underwater Museum where you can find more than 500 underwater sculptures. Head out snorkelling or diving in Akumal, near Playa del Carmen, the feeding ground for the giant green sea turtle. If you are looking for something bigger to swim with, you can also swim with whale sharks, as the region offers some of the best opportunities to see those creatures in their natural habitat.   

Fish swimming over a giant brain coral

ATV Through the Jungle 

An all-terrain vehicle is the perfect way to immerse yourself into the jungle and even visit a remote local community along the way. There are a number of tours from Cancun and Playa del Carmen that can take you into the wilderness, along trails that provide up close and personal experiences with the local flora and fauna. The trails can be a lot of fun to ride also for the adrenalin junkies amongst us! 

Mexican rainforest

Zip Line Through the Rainforest 

Zip lining is one of those activities that allow you to get close to the treetops and see the world from a different perspective. The Mayan Riviera has a number of opportunities to feel like Tarzan!  

Ziplining 

Mountain Bike Through the Mayan Underworld 

This unique experience, allows you to mountain bike through the Mayan Underworld! The cave systems that contain cenotes can often be explored on foot or even by bike. For instance, at Rio Secreto Mountain, cyclists will not only get the chance to ride through the jungle, but also into a local cave system. The perfect way to explore this subterranean labyrinth on two wheels, is to ride through this network of caverns and tunnels, which hundreds of years ago, were the sacred sites of the Mayan civilization.  

Rio Secreto

Sail the Caribbean 

The Caribbean has always been a great place for sailing and there are many options off the Mayan Riviera.  Whether you're an experienced sailor, looking to charter your own boat, or a beginner who just wants to feel the sea breeze, it is the perfect place to arrange your sailing adventure. The warm ocean, crystal clear waters, and spectacular sunsets will surround you and you might even spot some amazing sea creatures en route! 

Sail the Caribbean!

Take Part in a Mayan Temazcal Ceremony 

The concept of using a sweat lodge not only as a place of healing, but also as a place of introspection, is common amongst the indigenous people of North America. This originates from an ancient Mayan ceremony known as the Temazcal, which translates as the "house of heat." Visitors to the Riviera Maya can take part in this traditional ceremony, offering chance to not only experience an ancient cultural tradition, but also tap into your spiritual side. The Temazcal is led by a local shaman, well-versed in the ceremony, which will cleanse the mind, body, and soul. Inside the sweat lodge is hot, dark, and a little claustrophobic, the perfect environment for confronting your fears.  

Temaxcal ceremonial chamber