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Cancún

Turquoise water and Maya ruins.

Mexico ·

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Cancún is the gateway to the Riviera Maya: reef-lined beaches, cenotes and ancient cities.

Top attractions in Cancún

  1. Isla MujeresFerry over, rent a golf cart, swim at Playa Norte.
  2. Chichén ItzáThe great Maya pyramid; leave early.
  3. CenotesSwim in freshwater sinkholes near Tulum and Valladolid.
  4. TulumCliff-top ruins above the Caribbean.
  5. SnorkelingThe underwater museum (MUSA) and reef tours.
  6. Playa del CarmenFifth Avenue's shops and beach clubs.

Practical info

When to go

December–April, the dry season.

Visa (US passport holders)

No visa needed. A tourist card (FMM) is required — usually included in your airfare or issued on arrival — for stays up to 180 days.

R Travel tip

Use reef-safe sunscreen; it is required at many cenotes and parks.

Where to stay

Hotel Zone for beaches; Playa del Carmen for a town feel.

Entry rules shown are for US passport holders and change often — always confirm with the destination's embassy or your airline before booking. Other nationalities should check separately.

Opening hours, prices, event dates and entry rules change. Check official sites before you go. Written by the R Travel team.