14 mile of beautiful coastline and white smooth sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with intricate coral forests, a monopoly of year-round warm sunshine, something-for-everyone hotels, Vegas-style nightlife, mysterious architectural sites and traditional villages, add to this impressive shopping in brand-name stores and one-of-a-kind dining in luxurious restaurants are what make Cancun a traveler’s paradise like no other. Located off the northeast tip of the Yucatan peninsula, in the state of Quinata Roo, famous for its many lagoons, sandbars and mangrove swamps, this splendid resort city offers the ultimate in terms of adventures and relaxation!
A virgin island barely 30 years ago with the only accommodation being a few hammocks and some rickety bungalows, Cancun has flourished into a stunning sun-drenched destination, where millions flock to spot turtles off the Isla Mujeres, discover Itza’s iconic Mayan ruins and sway to salsa in El Centro’s tequila-slamming clubs. So, if you dream about a unique place to get your international feet wet, put Cancun on top agenda of your next trip. Best time to take a Cancun vacation is between mid-December to March.
A vast variety of exciting Mexico attractions and activities are waiting for you in this fascinating getaway sure to take your breath away. And no matter how long you are going to stay in Cancun, do not miss out the below described attractions, which are truly worth to pay a visit.
Mayan Ruins Cancun
If you are looking for old Mexico and Mayan culture appeals to you, a day trip to one of the Mayan ruin sites is an absolute must. Drive 80 miles south to Tulum, where cliff-top ruins overlook the blue sea, head inland to scale Mayan pyramids at Coba and, get lost in a mix of pre-Colombian architecture, from temples to Great Ball Court at Chichen Itza to experience something truly extraordinary.
Chichen Itza is a gorgeous Mayan ruin and probably the most important city of the Mayan culture that literally means: ‘Mouth of the well of the Itza.’ The main attraction is undoubtedly the stunning pyramid of El Castillo – the tallest and most impressive building, which design is thought to relate to Mayan calendar; there is a steep staircase in each of the four faces, consisting of 91 steps ascending to the top platform and if you count the top platform as an additional step, you’ll see that that there are 365 steps, 1 step for each day of the year. Many people avoid the ruins of Chichen Itza because it’s always crowded, but if you ever happen to visit the ruins, you will enjoy it greatly, returning home with unforgettable memories.
Tulum – the walled city, is another most visited Mayan ruin that proudly stands on a bluff, facing the rising sun and the fabulous blue waters of the Caribbean. Tulum is surrounded by three 18 feet thick and 9 to 15 feet high walls with the forth boundary being the ocean. Of great significance is the Temple of the descending God. Nobody can explain for sure why these amazing cities were abandoned so suddenly, but one thing remains constant: they are one of the mysterious architectural sites on Earth.
Other prominent attractions include: Xcaret – a nature reserve, blessed with an exclusive range of flora and fauna, as well as excellent nature trails and swimming/snorkeling opportunities; Isla Mujeres Turtle Farm, where every year from May to September, turtles hide their eggs in the soft sand until they hatch and Museo de Antropologia e Historia, featuring collections of jewelry, masks and other treasures that will give an idea of the history and culture of this region.
The only thing you should not definitely miss out you on your Mexican holidays is to bring a supply of mosquito repellent spray:)