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Ultimate 14-Day Rivera Maya Adventure: From Beaches to Ancient Ruins

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Day 1: Beach Relaxation

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

8:30AM

Breakfast at Casa Sofia

Start your day with a delicious breakfast of chilaquiles and fresh juice at Casa Sofia, an iconic local eatery.
Take a leisurely stroll to the restaurant from your hotel.
MXN200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Playa del Carmen Beach

Unwind on the stunning sandy beaches of Playa del Carmen, soaking up the sun and swimming in the turquoise waters.
A short walk from Casa Sofia to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mr. Pizza

Indulge in a delicious wood-fired pizza at Mr. Pizza, loved for its vibrant atmosphere and tasty crust.
Walk back to 5th Avenue, where Mr. Pizza is located.
MXN250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

5th Avenue Shopping

Stroll along 5th Avenue, exploring local shops for souvenirs and artisanal products.
Walk along the lively 5th Avenue which is pedestrian-friendly.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Alux Restaurant

Dine at Alux, a unique restaurant set in a natural cave, known for its exquisite Mayan-inspired dishes.
Drive to the Alux Restaurant in your rental car.
MXN800, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Playa del Carmen

Day 2: Ancient Ruins

Tulum, Mexico

7:30AM

Breakfast at Manglar Tulum

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of huevos rancheros at Manglar Tulum, set in a relaxed atmosphere.
Drive from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, approximately 1 hour.
MXN150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Tulum Ruins

Discover the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Short walk from the parking area.
MXN80, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sale e Pepe

Savour authentic Italian cuisine with a beachfront view at Sale e Pepe.
Drive to the restaurant just minutes away.
MXN300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at Playa Paraiso

Spend your afternoon at Playa Paraiso, known for its breathtaking beauty and soft sands.
A short drive from Sale e Pepe will bring you to Playa Paraiso.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kitchen Table

Enjoy a fresh farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on local ingredients at Kitchen Table.
Drive to the restaurant, located near the beach area.
MXN600, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Tulum

Day 3: Snorkeling Adventure

Tulum, Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Nave Pizzeria

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast pizza at La Nave Pizzeria before a day of adventure.
Quick drive or a walk if close by.
MXN120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Snorkelling at Akumal Beach

Go snorkelling in crystal-clear waters at nearby Akumal Beach, swimming alongside colourful fish and turtles.
A 30-minute drive to Akumal Beach.
MXN250, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Turtle Bay Cafe & Bakery

Enjoy a light meal at Turtle Bay Café, known for its delicious pastries and healthy options.
Short drive from Akumal Beach to the cafe.
MXN200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Gran Cenote

Explore the stunning Gran Cenote and experience swimming in its enchanting underground pools.
Drive from Turtle Bay Café to Gran Cenote, just 15 minutes away.
MXN180, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Romana Tulum

Delight in authentic Italian pasta dishes at Trattoria Romana, a popular local spot.
Drive back towards Tulum centre for dinner.
MXN500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Tulum

Day 4: Bacalar Journey

Bacalar, Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before hitting the road to Bacalar.
Pack and prepare your bags for the journey.
MXN150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Bacalar

Travel to Bacalar, known for its stunning lagoon with shades of blue.
The drive takes around 2 hours.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Kayaking in Bacalar Lagoon

Kayak on the beautiful Bacalar Lagoon, exploring its unique cenotes and calm waters.
Nearby rental stores offer kayaks for hire.
MXN300, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at La Pueblita

Enjoy some local Mexican cuisine in a casual setting at La Pueblita.
Drive to this nearby restaurant within Bacalar itself.
MXN200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Cenote Azul

A short trip to Cenote Azul, perfect for swimming and unwinding by the water.
Drive from La Pueblita to the cenote, only 20 minutes away.
MXN100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Pez

Savour a delightful dinner at El Pez, known for its fresh seafood and beautiful views over the lagoon.
Drive back towards the lagoon-side restaurant.
MXN600, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Bacalar

Day 5: Chetumal Exploration

Chetumal, Mexico

8:30AM

Breakfast at your Accommodation

Indulge in breakfast at your hotel before visiting Chetumal.
Get ready and check out of the hotel.
MXN150, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Chetumal

Experience the local culture as you drive to Chetumal, the capital of Quintana Roo.
A scenic 1 hour drive from Bacalar.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Takes a stroll at the Chetumal Bay

Explore the vibrant waterfront area of Chetumal Bay, enjoying the sea breeze and local art.
Park nearby and walk along the boardwalk.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Habichuela

Savour fresh seafood dishes at La Habichuela, famous for its local fare and warm service.
Drive to the restaurant in downtown Chetumal.
MXN300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Museum of Mayan Culture

Visit the Museum of Mayan Culture to gain insight into the rich history of the ancient Mayans.
A short drive from the restaurant to the museum.
MXN100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Camino

Enjoy a casual dinner at El Camino with a variety of local Mexican dishes.
Drive back to the restaurant located near the waterfront.
MXN250, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chetumal

Day 6: Beach Day

Mahahual, Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Depart from Chetumal after breakfast for a relaxing day at Mahahual.
Check out and prepare for travel.
MXN150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Mahahual

Drive 1 hour to reach the charming coastal village of Mahahual.
Follow the signs for Mahahual.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Beach Time at Mahahual

Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at Mahahual, a laid-back beach destination with clear waters.
Walk from your parking spot to the beach area.
Free, 4 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at El Faro

Savour generously portioned seafood dishes at El Faro while overlooking the beach.
Stroll to the beachfront restaurant for lunch.
MXN300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Seafront Boardwalk

Walk along the seafront boardwalk, soaking in the picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere.
Visit multiple shops and spots along the boardwalk.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Nohoch Kay

Relax at Nohoch Kay for a delightful dinner of traditional Mexican dishes with a twist.
Drive to the restaurant nearby the beach area for convenience.
MXN600, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Mahahual

Day 7: Nature Exploration

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading out to explore the natural wonders of Sian Ka'an.
Pack up and check out.
MXN150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Sian Ka'an

Travel approximately 1 hour to the stunning Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve.
Follow the signs while enjoying scenic views along the way.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Wildlife Watching and Eco Tour

Join a guided eco tour to spot diverse wildlife and learn about the reserve's ecosystem.
Pre-book a tour for an organized experience.
MXN1000, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Eco Lodge

Enjoy local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients at the eco-lodge’s charming restaurant.
Lunch is often provided as part of the eco tour package.
Included, 1 hour

3:00PM

Beach Time in Sian Ka'an

Relax on the pristine, uncrowded beaches within the reserve.
Enjoy the reserved beach area accessible from the eco lodge.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kay Wood's Restaurant

End the day with a delightful dinner at Kay Wood's Restaurant, specialising in fresh seafood.
Drive back to the restaurant location nearby Tulum.
MXN500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

Day 8: Cultural Interactions

Akumal, Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at Boulangerie French Bakery

Start your day with a freshly baked croissant and coffee at this charming French bakery.
Depart from your accommodation and travel towards Akumal.
MXN150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Akumal Beach

Spend your morning swimming and snorkelling at Akumal Beach, famous for its turtles.
Drive from the bakery to Akumal Beach parking area.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Cueva del Pescador

Relish fresh catches of seafood and traditional dishes at La Cueva del Pescador.
Drive to the restaurant nearby for local cuisine.
MXN300, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Cultural Activities at Akumal

Join in on a cultural workshop or local art class available in Akumal.
Inquire locally for available workshops and activities.
MXN400, 2 hours

4:00PM

Returning to your Accommodation

Wind down by relaxing at your accommodation or visiting local shops in Akumal.
Drive or walk back to your place of stay for some leisure time.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Techo's

Enjoy a meal at Techo's, offering a variety of traditional Mexican fare.
Close out your day with dinner at this popular local spot.
MXN600, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Akumal

Day 9: Island Excursion

Cozumel, Mexico

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before catching the ferry to Cozumel.
Pack up and check out of your accommodation.
MXN200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Ferry to Cozumel

Board the ferry to Cozumel for a full day of adventure on the island.
The ferry terminal is close to Playa del Carmen, taking around 40 minutes.
MXN500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit San Gervasio Ruins

Explore the fascinating San Gervasio ruins, an important Mayan site on Cozumel.
Short drive from the ferry dock to the ruins.
MXN100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mr. Sancho's Beach Club

Relax with lunch at Mr. Sancho's, known for its ideal beach setting and vibrant atmosphere.
Drive or take a cab to Mr. Sancho's, located on the beach.
MXN350, 2 hours

2:00PM

Snorkelling Adventure

Join a snorkelling tour to discover the colourful marine life of Cozumel.
Meet at designated snorkelling tour location, often close to the beach club.
MXN600, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return Ferry

Catch the ferry back to Playa del Carmen for a relaxing evening.
Board the ferry back to Playa del Carmen ferry terminal.
MXN500, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at La Perla

Conclude your day with an exquisite dining experience at La Perla overlooking the coast.
A short drive from the ferry terminal to the restaurant.
MXN800, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Cozumel

Day 10: Colonial Charm

Valladolid, Mexico

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a tasty breakfast at your hotel before heading to Valladolid.
Check out of your hotel and prepare for the journey.
MXN150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Valladolid

Set off for Valladolid, taking in the beautiful landscapes along the way.
A 1.5-hour scenic drive awaits you.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Colonial City

Wander around the charming streets of Valladolid, admiring its colonial architecture.
Park in the town centre and walk around freely.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Mesón del Marqués

Taste traditional Yucatecan dishes at El Mesón del Marqués, housed in a historic building.
A walk from the town square leads you to the restaurant.
MXN400, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Cenote Zaci

Swim and relax in the beautiful Cenote Zaci, located nearby the town.
A quick taxi ride or drive to Cenote Zaci will take you there.
MXN150, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante El Atrio

End your day with a delicious meal at Restaurante El Atrio focusing on local flavours.
Return to Valladolid for dinner.
MXN500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Valladolid

Day 11: Mayan Wonders

Chichen Itza, Mexico

7:30AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel before touring the renowned ruins of Chichen Itza.
Check out and prepare to drive to Chichen Itza.
MXN150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Chichen Itza

Travel to the world-famous Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
A 40-minute drive takes you there from Valladolid.
Free, 40 minutes

9:45AM

Explore Chichen Itza

Delve into the history of the ancient city and marvel at its impressive structures.
Purchase entrance tickets upon arrival at the site.
MXN500, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Casona

Enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at La Casona, a short drive from the ruins.
A brief drive from Chichen Itza will take you to La Casona for lunch.
MXN400, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Cenote Ik Kil

Take a refreshing dip in the beautiful Cenote Ik Kil nearby.
Drive from La Casona to Cenote Ik Kil.
MXN200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Hostería del Mayab

Conclude your day with a hearty dinner at Hostería del Mayab, featuring traditional fare.
Head back towards Valladolid area for dinner.
MXN500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chichen Itza

Day 12: History and Culture

Ek' Balam, Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Kickstart your day with breakfast before heading to Ek' Balam.
Check out and prepare to set out.
MXN150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Ek' Balam

Drive approximately 30 minutes to the ancient Mayan ruins of Ek' Balam.
Follow the signs from Valladolid to Ek' Balam.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Ek' Balam Ruins

Climb the ancient pyramid at Ek' Balam and take in stunning views of the surrounding jungle.
Purchase tickets at the entrance once there.
MXN100, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Tia Berta's

Enjoy a traditional meal at La Tia Berta's, famed for its home-cooked flavours.
Head back to the main road from the ruins to the restaurant.
MXN300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Cenote X'canché

Unwind at Cenote X'canché, where you can swim or relax by its refreshing waters.
Just a short drive from La Tia Berta's to the cenote.
MXN150, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Los Abuelos

End your day with a delightful meal at Los Abuelos, known for its authentic Mexican cuisine.
Drive back to Valladolid for dinner.
MXN500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ek' Balam

Day 13: Return to the Coast

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Savour a delicious breakfast at a local café before heading back to Playa del Carmen.
Check out from your hotel and prepare for your journey.
MXN150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive Back to Playa del Carmen

Enjoy the scenic journey back to Playa del Carmen, taking in the beautiful landscapes.
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Check-in at Playa del Carmen Hotel

Check in to your accommodation and freshen up before your beach day.
Check the location of your hotel before arriving.
Varies, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at La Bodega

Indulge in a delightful lunch featuring local flavours at La Bodega.
Walk to La Bodega, a local restaurant in Playa del Carmen.
MXN300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Afternoon at Mamitas Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying the beach ambiance at Mamitas Beach.
A short walk from La Bodega to Mamitas Beach.
Free, 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at El Fogon

Savor renowned Tacos al Pastor and local delicacies at El Fogon, a popular spot among locals.
Drive or walk back from the beach.
MXN300, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Playa del Carmen

Day 14: Departure

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a final breakfast at your hotel before checking out and heading home.
Check out and prepare for departure.
MXN150, 1 hour

10:00AM

Last-minute Shopping

Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or last-minute gifts along 5th Avenue.
Walk to 5th Avenue for shopping before your departure.
Varies, 2 hours

1:00PM

Departure

Time to say goodbye to beautiful Riviera Maya as you head to the airport.
Make sure to leave for the airport with ample time.
Free, Varies
Find Hotels in Playa del Carmen
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