Highlights
- Enjoy Playa del Carmen's beaches, shops, and nightlife
- Explore the underwater world of Rio Secreto
- Discover native wildlife in Sian Ka'an, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
- Relax on the white sandy beaches of Cancun
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Cancún, Transfer to Playa del Carmen | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 2 | Float in the Muyil Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 3 | Free Day in Playa del Carmen | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 4 | Río Secreto Guided Tour | Playa del Carmen |
| Day 5 | Return to Cancún, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Cancún, Transfer to Playa del Carmen
Welcome to Mexico! You'll be picked up at the airport in Cancún, located in Quintana Roo, bordered by the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. It's a place characterized by beautiful beaches with very fine white sand. After some time to relax, you'll move to Playa del Carmen—a short drive south—where you'll be based for the rest of the trip.
Day 2: Float in the Muyil Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Today, you'll go on an excursion to Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. You'll arrive at the community center early in the morning. From there, local guides will take you with the rest of the group to the archaeological site of Muyil to learn about its mysteries. You'll walk through the jungle on an interpretive path that leads you to the edge of the Chunyaxche lagoon, notable for its deep turquoise color.
Later, ride a motorboat through Sian Ka'an lagoon toward the mangrove. Navigate through its channels; you'll have a chance to take a dip in the water. After a leisurely lunch in a local restaurant, head back to town to relax at your hotel in Playa del Carmen.
Day 3: Free Day in Playa del Carmen
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Enjoy a free day to explore Playa del Carmen in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Go for street tacos, relax on the beach, side-trip to nearby cenotes, or hang around the hotel pool. In the evening, go for a stroll on the busy pedestrian promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.
Day 4: Río Secreto Guided Tour
After breakfast, you'll drive to Río Secreto to see an extraordinary underground river. Home to thousands of stalactites and stalagmites, the area is eerily beautiful. Apart from learning about geological history, you'll have the chance to swim and hike inside the caves. Later, go back to the hotel in Playa del Carmen and live it up with one last night on the town before the trip ends.
Day 5: Return to Cancún, Depart
After breakfast, your transportation will arrive to take you to the airport. Have a safe flight home!
More Great Mexico Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Mexico? Check out these other Mexico itineraries, explore different ways to spend five days in Mexico, or discover the best time to visit Mexico.
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