yucatan round trip

The Ultimate 10 Day Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

For several years, Mexico has consistently ranked among our favorite countries in the world to explore–and after our most recent return visit to take a Yucatan road trip, we are more confident than ever that it will never be unseated. 

Between the overwhelming number of interesting sights, absolutely sublime food, and incredibly welcoming culture, we can never get enough of Mexico.

With this 10 day Yucatan itinerary, we hope we can help you fall in love with it too!

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is one of those just-right destinations that is easy enough to travel in that newer travelers will feel comfortable exploring, and fascinating enough that veteran travelers will never be bored.

Between the Mayan cities and mystical cenotes, the colorful towns and delicious food, the lagoon of Bacalar and the stunning beaches the region is known for, a Yucatan road trip truly has something for everyone.

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Table of Contents

How We Structured This Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Why choose the yucatan for a mexico road trip, getting around during your road trip in the yucatan, will this 10 day yucatan itinerary work without a car, other destinations to add to your yucatan road trip itinerary, useful driving tips for this mexico road trip itinerary, faq about taking a road trip in the yucatan peninsula, yucatan road trip itinerary map, the best time to road trip the yucatan peninsula, what to pack for your yucatan road trip.

We structured this Yucatan road trip itinerary to center around some of our favorite things to do in the Yucatan: explore Mayan ruins, swim in cenotes, and enjoy beautiful beaches.

We are covering the Yucatan peninsula here, not just the state of Yucatan, and much of this Yucatan travel itinerary does take place in Quintana Roo.

It’s a fairly fast-paced itinerary in the sense that it packs a lot in and involves climbing many pyramids, but to drive this route straight through without traffic would actually only take around 12 hours.

You’ll drive a bit more than that, counting day trips and such, but the bottom line is that it’s a very doable distance in 10 days!

We’ve included some of Mexico’s biggest tourist highlights here, including Chichen Itza, while also throwing in up-and-coming spots like Bacalar, and organized them in a loop beginning and ending in Cancun (aka, the biggest airport hub in the region by far).

This guide to spending 10 days in the Yucatan is quite long, so feel free to use the table of contents above this section to navigate to the most important parts for you if you wish!

When looking for the perfect road trip in Mexico or even all of Latin America, the Yucatan peninsula immediately shoots up to the top of the list.

The peninsula is known as one of the safest regions for tourists in all of Mexico (and for the record, we have always felt incredibly safe not only there but everywhere we’ve been in Mexico), the driving is very lowkey, and the sights, from the ruins of Mayan cities to beaches to colorful towns to the peninsula’s world-famous cenotes, are sublime.

With a flawless combination of safety, ease of travel, and unforgettable sights, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect Mexico road trip than one through the Yucatan.

The best company to rent a car for your road trip in Mexico from will likely vary dramatically depending on exactly when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your Yucatan road trip.

Check prices and shop rental cars for your Yucatan road trip today!

Parts of it, yes, but it would be more of a hassle to reach some spots.

Mexico’s ADO bus network is impressive, incredibly comfortable (some of the most comfortable buses we’ve ridden on anywhere, quite frankly), and can easily get you around the peninsula, including all the way down to Bacalar.

For smaller day trips like visiting Ek Balam and the cenotes around Valladolid , though, you’d need to either negotiate a taxi (not terribly difficult, but a hassle, especially if you’re not comfortable negotiating in Spanish), jump in a collectivo, or book a tour.

There’s no doubt that driving will make this particular 10 day Yucatan itinerary much easier and more flexible, but if you can’t or would prefer not to drive, you can still have an incredibly rewarding trip to the peninsula using this Yucatan travel guide.

Day 1: Arrive in Cancun and head to Valladolid.

Assuming you arrive in Cancun early enough in the day to reach Valladolid before sunset, we highly recommend grabbing your rental car at the airport and then immediately hitting the road!

If your flight arrives in the late afternoon or evening, though, you’ll want to spend your first night in Cancun itself and then get an early start by driving to Valladolid the next morning.

Valladolid is a little under 2 hours from Cancun by car.

Day 2: Explore Valladolid and check out nearby cenotes.

The colorful, small city of Valladolid is a laid-back and delightful place to explor.

The Zocalo, cathedral, and the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena are all worth a look, as are the many delicious restaurants and the colorful street of Calzada de los Frailes.

The main reason that Valladolid is a favorite for people exploring the Yucatan, though, is not for the charming city that is itself one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos (Magic Towns), but for what lies outside of it.

Valladolid is located at the perfect epicenter of many of the area’s best day trips, including several cenotes and Mayan ruins.

For the first several days of this Mexico road trip, we recommend basing yourselves here–the next few days of this Yucatan itinerary are designed as day trips from Valladolid.

For today, start your stay in Valladolid by exploring the town and potentially by checking out a few of the nearby cenotes.

Instagram-famous Cenote Suytun is less than 15 minutes from town by car, as is the complex housing both Cenote Samula and Cenote Xkeken.

Too tired to drive anymore but still want to check out a cenote today?

No worries–Cenote Zaci is certainly not the most impressive of these cenotes, but it does win points for being right in the center of town!

Where to Stay in Valladolid

Valladolid has a fantastic selection of places to stay, ranging from budget hostels to beautiful boutique hotels. 

Here are some of the best, including the hotel we adored on our most recent visit!

Hostel Candelaria — Featuring a perfect location in the center of Valladolid, colorful decor, hundreds of near-perfect reviews and plenty of dorm and private room lodging options, Hostel Candelaria is a go-to choice for budget travelers to Valladolid.

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Candelaria!

Casa Aluxes Hotel — We absolutely adored our stay at this boutique hotel. The breakfast is fantastic, the service perfect, the inner courtyard and pools beautiful, and their location excellent. When we return to Valladolid yet again, we’ll definitely consider staying again.

Check rates & book your stay at Casa Aluxes Hotel!

Le Muuch Hotel — This luxury hotel in Valladolid offers spacious family rooms, excellent service, and a fantastic breakfast, all housed in a convenient location within walking distance of Valladolid’s major sights.

The grounds include two beautiful pools, and the hotel’s hundreds of excellent reviews make it a sure bet when visiting Valladolid.

Check rates & book your stay at Le Muuch Hotel!

Day 3: Visit Chichen Itza and Cenote Ik Kil.

For your first day trip from Valladolid, head to none other than Mexico’s most famous Mayan ruin and one of the 7 New Wonders of the World: Chichen Itza.

We highly recommend showing up very, very early, and entering the park as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds.

Most of the big tour buses bringing visitors in by the hundreds from Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen won’t show up until an hour or two after that, giving you a bit of time to explore the ruins in relative peace.

After you finish up at Chichen Itza itself, be sure to take a dip in nearby Cenote Ik Kil!

Day 4: Visit Ek Balam and Cenote X’canche.

I’ll be honest: I intentionally scheduled Chichen Itza as the first Mayan city on this Yucatan itinerary, not only because I know just about everyone wants to visit, but because the other Mayan cities you will visit after it–in my biased opinion–blow it out of the water.

Ek Balam is located about half an hour from Valladolid, and in contrast with bustling Chichen Itza the previous day, will likely feel downright deserted.

With far fewer crowds and plenty of structures that you can climb, visiting Ek Balam is an absolute delight and one of our personal favorite stops on this Yucatan road trip.

Located in the same complex of sorts–you won’t need to move your car again–is Cenote X’canche, which is arguably our favorite cenote that we’ve seen on the peninsula as well!

Featuring brilliantly beautiful water, a slightly wild feel, and a waterfall, Cenote X’canche is one of those places where it is easy to understand why the Mayan religion purports that cenotes are the entrances to the underworld.

Day 5: Make your way to Tulum.

On day 5 of your Mexico road trip, it’s time to say goodbye to Valladolid and head for the beach!

Tulum is about an hour and a half away from Valladolid, giving you plenty of time to make your way back to the coast and then visit the famous Tulum ruins and beach.

While the ruins are certainly more crowded than Ek Balam from yesterday, their setting just cannot be beat–the views of the Mayan city overlooking the phenomenal beach are just magnificent.

Be sure to bring your swimsuit along: your ticket to visit the Tulum ruins also includes access to the beach, and you’ll definitely want to spend a few hours there!

When it comes time to find somewhere to stay for the night, you absolutely can stay in Tulum itself, but be prepared for some serious sticker shock: Tulum is not only expensive as compared to other cities in Mexico, it’s just expensive, period.

If you’d like to save a little cash, consider staying outside of Tulum instead–there are plenty of options, from luxury accommodation to hostels to boutique hotels, a 20-30 minute drive down the road.

One of the major benefits of being on a Yucatan road trip rather than a traditional itinerary is that you can take advantage of flexibility like that!

Optional Yucatan Road Trip Stop: Coba.

Still dreaming of more Mayan ruins?

With three archaeological sites in three days included on this Yucatan itinerary, you quite possibly will not, but it’s worth pointing out that as you drive from Valladolid to Tulum, you’ll pass right by the Coba ruins, which also make for a delightful place to explore.

Less popular (read: crowded) than Chichen Itza, but more crowded than Ek Balam, Coba boasts some stunning structures in a forested setting, and you can climb the main pyramid for beautiful views over the jungle.

Day 6: Road trip Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula to Bacalar.

On day 6, it’s time to head to the most up-and-coming destination on this 10 day Yucatan itinerary, a place we’ve heard described as “what Tulum was 30 years ago”: Bacalar.

The drive from Tulum to Bacalar takes less than 3 hours, so depending on time you could spend the morning in Tulum before heading down, or stop at Sian Ka’an Biosphere to see another magnificent part of the Yucatan peninsula.

Alternatively, you could wake up early and head right to Bacalar to maximize your time at this otherworldly lagoon–more on it below.

Day 7: Enjoy Mexico’s Lagoon of Seven Colors.

Look out over the beauty of the Bacalar Lagoon, and you may just be convinced that you’ve been transported to the Maldives or to an obscure Pacific atoll.

You’ll almost certainly have a hard time comprehending that the brilliant blue you see doesn’t come from a sea or ocean of any kind, but from a freshwater lagoon.

Bacalar, both the town and the lagoon it is named after, is a sleepy, beautiful place where it’s easy to kick back, relax, and enjoy some truly unique nature.

While you’re there, consider taking a boat tour to discover the best swimming spots and viewpoints on the lagoon, checking out the rapids (basically a natural lazy river), and hopping down to one of the beach clubs for a swim and some food served up with incredible views.

Back in town, be sure to visit Fort San Felipe, which was built by the Spanish in the 18th century to defend against the real-life pirates of the Caribbean that attacked the town.

For dinner, we can heartily recommend La Playita–one of the best-known spots in town with one of the best restaurant views imaginable–and also La Pina, which isn’t located right on the lake but has an impressive garden atmosphere all the same.

Where to Stay in Bacalar

We recommend spending two nights visiting Bacalar as part of this Yucatan road trip–here are some great options for where to stay.

Blue Hotel — With comfortable rooms, affordable prices, and excellent service, Blue Hotel is a fantastic choice for travelers visiting Bacalar on a budget.

While the hotel is located a bit further from the center of town than most, in Bacalar, that’s not a problem when you’re on a Yucatan road trip–you’ll probably drive to most attractions anyway.

Check rates & book your stay at Blue Hotel!

Hotel Tuparenda — We loved this boutique hotel in Bacalar–so much, in fact, that when we doubled back to Bacalar on our Mexico road trip, we returned for a second stay here!

The location is excellent (a short walk from La Playita), rooms comfortable, and service wonderful.

The rooftop, where the included breakfast is served and there is a small pool, has a lovely view of the lagoon in the distance!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Tuparenda!

Maya Bacalar Boutique Hotel — Want to stay directly on the lake, with a restaurant and spa located on-site and no reason to leave?

If so, check yourself in for relaxation and pampering at the popular and well-reviewed Maya Bacalar Boutique Hotel for a taste of luxury… at far more affordable prices than a similar accommodation would go for in Tulum or Playa del Carmen.

Check rates & book your stay at Maya Bacalar Boutique Hotel!

Day 8: Head to Playa del Carmen, stopping at Akumal on the way.

At this point during your Yucatan road trip itinerary, things become a bit choose-your-own-adventure by virtue of the fact that there is so much to do between Bacalar and your eventual destination of Cancun, where you’ll say goodbye to Mexico in a couple of days.

Our suggestion is to head to Playa del Carmen (we loved our time at Isabella Boutique Hotel if you’re looking for an adorable but not insanely expensive place to stay), which is about a 3.5-hour drive from Bacalar and will put you both much closer to Cancun and in the heart of plenty of things to do in the Yucatan.

Along the way, consider stopping off at Akumal to cross a major highlight off of your Yucatan bucket list: swimming with sea turtles.

Day 9: Cross one more thing off your Mexico bucket list. 

With one more day of your Yucatan road trip left and an excellent central base in or near Playa del Carmen, the Riviera Maya is your oyster.

Here are a few of our suggestions for what to do on the last day of your road trip in the Yucatan…

Go for a swim in a cenote (or two).

Playa del Carmen is surrounded by absolutely stunning cenotes, including Cristalino, Jardin del Eden, and Cenote Azul.

Have a beach day at Xpu-Ha.

While the beaches in Playa del Carmen proper are not among the best on the Riviera Maya, Xpu-Ha, which is located just a short drive outside of town, is absolutely amazing and a fantastic place to kick back and relax.

Go snorkeling or scuba diving.

The stunning island of Cozumel is located very close to Playa del Carmen, and is especially well-known for its incredible scuba diving and snorkeling! Whether you book a day trip from Playa del Carmen or hop one of the many ferries over to Cozumel yourself, you’ll be able to find excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Prefer to go underground?

Snorkeling in an enclosed cenote is an unforgettable experience.

Day 10: Return to Cancun and say goodbye (for now) to Mexico.

As your Yucatan road trip comes to a close, it’s time to return to Cancun.

Before saying goodbye to Yucatan travel, though, consider hitting the beach one last time if you have time before heading to the airport!

Cancun has some of the best beaches in Mexico, and some are absolutely free to visit, including the positively magnificent Playa Delfines.

A mere 10 days in the Yucatan could never hope to cover all the incredible peninsula has to offer.

If you have a longer Yucatan itinerary to work with, here are a few other places to consider adding onto your Yucatan road trip!

I specifically didn’t include popular Isla Mujeres or Isla Holbox in this Yucatan travel blog post, as they’re decidedly not road trip destinations, but we adore them both and they’re definitely worth considering adding to your itinerary for the Yucatan as well!

In fact, we started our most recent trip to the Yucatan peninsula with a few days on Isla Mujeres before picking up our rental car, and couldn’t recommend the experience more.

The pink lakes of Las Coloradas, Mexico have become increasingly #instagramfamous in the last few years, and they are still one of the most unique places to visit in the Yucatan!

They are actually private reservoirs belonging to a salt company, not natural lakes at all, but they are incredibly interesting to look at.

Visiting has become more regimented over the years, and these days you’ll be charged a small fee to enter and be required to keep a guide with you, and you definitely can’t swim in the lakes.

If you’d like to see them for yourself, they’re a doable day trip from Valladolid (a little under 2 hours of easy driving each way).

The colorful, beautiful ex-pat haven of Merida is incredibly popular with visitors planning long stays in the Yucatan, but it’s quite far out of the way for this Yucatan itinerary that focuses more on the southern and central parts of the peninsula.

If you have longer than 10 days in the Yucatan, though, definitely consider stopping by to explore some of the best things to do in Merida .

It’s a beautiful, colorful city with lots of amazing food to offer, and is also the capital of the state of Yucatan.

Buried deep in the jungle in the state of Campeche, Calakmul is one of the most difficult Mayan ruins to get to, but it’s also one of the most rewarding.

Climb atop the pyramids there, and you will see nothing but ruins surrounded by lots and lots of jungle.

If you look closely on a clear day, you may even spot the tip of La Danta, a pyramid in modern-day Guatemala that once stood in the lost city of El Mirador and is–by some measures–the tallest pyramid in the world.

The city of Izamal is located vaguely between Valladolid and Merida, and is known primarily for its brilliant color–much of the town is painted bright yellow!

Be sure to check out the Convent of San Antonio of Padua, the beautiful (yellow) architecture downtown, and the markets while there.

Our current favorite archaeological site in Mexico is located only an hour and a half north of Bacalar, making it easy to add on to your Mexico road trip!

Becan is uncrowded, inexpensive, incredibly well-preserved, and a true hidden gem on the Yucatan peninsula. 

If you’re looking for a memorable side trip while traveling the Yucatan, we can’t recommend a visit to Becan enough!

Plan to drive only during the day.

With lots of speed bumps (more on that below) and very few street lights, the Yucatan peninsula is not an ideal place to drive at night. 

Luckily, this Yucatan road trip itinerary should make it fairly easy to drive during the day only–most days include only a couple of hours of driving.

Keep an eye on the time (zone).

This itinerary covers destinations in both the state of Quintana Roo and the state of Yucatan.

Despite being right next door to each other and frequently covered on the same trip, these Mexican states are in different time zones!

Quintana Roo uses Eastern Standard Time, and Yucatan uses Central Standard Time.

Typically, someone will pump your gas for you.

Most frequently, when you pull up to the gas pump in Mexico, someone will pump your gas for you as well as clean your windshield. You’ll want to provide a small tip for the service.

If you don’t see someone servicing the pumps, though, you can also pump your own gas in some places, so keep an eye on what others are doing!

… but be sure to check the pump to avoid scams.

There’s a known gas station scam in the Yucatan in which you’ll be charged extra because the gas pump isn’t set to $0.00 before the attendant starts pumping your gas.

This has never happened to us, but we’ve heard of fellow travelers experiencing it!

Luckily, the way to avoid it is very simple: if you’re not pumping your own gas, be sure to look at the pump and confirm it’s set to zero before the attendant starts to pump.

Keep an eye out for topes.

Topes (in English, speed bumps) are the major way that speed limits are enforced in the Yucatan peninsula, especially in towns and other population centers.

Go over them too fast, and you’ll throw out the suspension of your rental car–proceed carefully and when in doubt, go slow.

Don’t leave anything visible in the car when you park.

This is truly good advice for most of the world, but it especially goes here: visible luggage and belongings left in a parked car can attract thieves.

Leave nothing visible.

Check for onsite parking when booking hotels.

It will make your life much simpler if there’s parking onsite at each place you stay in Mexico, and hotels with parking are very easy to find.

We’d consider it a road trip mistake to accidentally show up somewhere without parking!

Pick up a Mexican SIM card before you get started.

Having cell phone data with you will make your Mexico road trip through the Yucatan far, far simpler, and buying data is incredibly affordable.

To save time and hassle, consider picking up a SIM card for your phone before you even leave the airport.

Do you need to speak Spanish for this Yucatan road trip?

No, but it will make your trip much, much easier.

While you definitely don’t need to know how to speak Spanish well for this Yucatan itinerary, we recommend learning at least some basic phrases before you go.

How’s the driving?

Incredibly easy!

Truly, we found driving in the Yucatan to be far, far easier than driving in most places we’ve been in Europe. 

For most of this Yucatan road trip itinerary, you’ll be driving on flat, well-signed, uncongested highways.

After the initial few hours of getting used to driving in Mexico, we found our road trip to be extremely relaxing.

Like in virtually all places around the world, driving is a bit more complex and congested in and around large cities, but not overly difficult for confident drivers.

Is this road trip in Mexico safe?

Safety is a very complicated subject, of course (I discussed a bit more about safety in Mexico here ), but generally speaking, yes. 

While cartel violence is certainly a problem in Mexico, it very, very rarely touches tourists and even more rarely touches tourists who avoid going near illegal activities (don’t stumble out of a bar drunk at 3am and try to pick up a prostitute on the way home, basically).

We have spent months in Mexico, spread across many different states, and have always felt supremely safe–just as safe as we feel in an average town in the USA.

Our fellow American travelers do tend to stick to the Riviera Maya (basically the corridor between Cancun and Tulum), but every place on this Yucatan road trip itinerary has a fairly developed tourism structure, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and tourism services.

Very generally speaking, the people traveling this route are made up of a combination of European and Canadian vacationers (including lots of young families!), as well as Mexican tourists exploring their own country and a fair number of long term travelers/people backpacking the Yucatan.

In other words, while these places are a bit off the beaten path for an average US citizen taking a week off of work to head down to Mexico, they’re not remotely intimidating places to travel once you get the hang of the route, and they feel very safe.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

The high season for traveling the Yucatan Peninsula runs roughly from mid-December to April, with the biggest crowds (and highest prices) typically found around Christmas, New Yea’s, Spring Break, and Easter.

This is most prominent on the Riviera Maya, though–we’ve traveled the Yucatan peninsula extensively during high season on multiple trips, and have had no issues with crowds or extreme prices outside of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, and while the odds are long that your trip would be caught up in a hurricane, you can expect more rain and cloudy weather during your Mexico road trip during those months.

Lower prices and fewer crowds might very well be a solid trade-off, though, depending on your travel style.

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced Yucatan road trip is definitely better a case of safe than sorry.

We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Mexico.

Cell Phone Holder — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your road trip in the Yucatan.

Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Additional Car Insurance — Whether you purchase a policy that covers car rental (only some do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: it’s worth the peace of mind.

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

I use them on all boats and the occasional bus, and if things get really bad, take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine as well.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

28 thoughts on “The Ultimate 10 Day Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary”

This is basically my dream Mexico trip!!! My boyfriend and I had talked about going this year but obviously we’ll see. Either way saving this post for inspiration. We’ll definitely make sure to see that cenote at Ek Balam, wow.

Ahh I’m so happy to hear that Jessica! We truly love this part of the world so much, I just want to shout from the rooftops about it. SERIOUSLY hoping your trip can happen this year, for so many reasons.

Currently planning ours for next month!! Thank you so much

As a fan of this area for over 35 years, enjoyed reading your writings here. As far as shouting from the rooftops, I often feel maybe I have done that too much. Holbox and Bacalar are two places I have known for many years and often recommended. But now due to mass development they are both becoming almost unrecognizable to me and that is a sad thing.

Great post, Kate. We’re stuck up here in Ohio at the moment and would love to be on the beach in Mexico instead.

Thanks, Mark! Completely agree–we’d much rather be back on a beach in Mexico right now too.

This article was extremely helpful. Thank you for suggested itinerary and descriptions.

So happy to hear that, Beth! Hope you have a great trip to the Yucatan!

Do you think a road trip around the Yucatan would be at all feasible with a 1 year old? I think we’d have to make some modifications but overall do you feel like it would be safe and not an insane amount of driving?

Hi Michelle!

Yes, it’s absolutely doable with modifications (depending on the one-year-old in question, of course). We’ve always seen quite a few families out and about when in the Yucatan. Hotels and restaurants tend to be extremely welcoming to kids.

If you want to cut quite a bit of driving, you can trim off Bacalar to stay more central. Most of the driving distances in this itinerary are fairly short, coming in at 3 hours or less of driving a day.

I finally booked plane tickets to Mexico thanks to your blog! Thanks for all the inspiration. I’ll be following most of your itinerary!

Thank you so much, Allie, that makes my day! Hope you have an amazing trip!

Hi, thanks so much for your 10 day itinerary post. I’m trying to figure out which of the islands -mujeres or cozumel- to include given ill cut out chichen itza and coba probably, and bacalar as i want to minize driving time. Im travelling with a two year old so ruins may not be the best idea. Would really appreciate your thoughts.

Both islands are beautiful, but Cozumel is better known for diving and Mujeres for its beaches. You guys could have a great time in either, but if I had to choose, I’d say that Mujeres is probably a bit more toddler-friendly.

We (couple with 16 year old son) went to Cancun for the first time in March 2021 and really loved it! Planning a trip back in the spring of ’22. We split our time between Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Puerto Morelos, including day trips to Coba, Tulum, and Akumal. Just wanted to add an update, though…unfortunately at the time we went there was no climbing at the ruins which had previously allowed it. We heard different reports of whether that was temporary due to COVID-19, or if that was permanent. Also, do watch out for gas station scams! (Search it on the internet…) I had read of some before we went and was prepared, but I was still pretty surprised when the very first place we stopped for gas the attendant used one of the scams to try to rip us off! We called him on it and he tried to talk his way out of it at first, but when we insisted on speaking to his boss he changed his tune and gave back the extra money. We totally would have been fooled if we hadn’t read about it first.

Hi Katie! Thanks so much for the additional information, sounds like you love the area as much as we do. So far I’ve only heard that climbing at Coba is limited due to COVID, but we’ll definitely keep an eye on whether it becomes permanent. Coba is beautiful but if you’re looking for even more ruins next time, Becan, Calakmul, and Ek Balam are all among our favorites.

Hi! What do you think of going on this trip in May?

You will be very, very hot! That wouldn’t be a deal-breaker for us, personally, especially since you’ll probably also benefit from a shoulder season dip in prices, but be prepared for soaring temperatures, especially inland.

The rainy season generally starts in June, so your odds of having sunny weather are solid (especially if you visit toward the beginning of the month), but be prepared to spend lots of time cooling off in the water.

Hello 🙂 thanks for a great post. we are planning the first night in Cancun as we arrive late. the next day we will drive to Valladolid early and have 1 night there. then we will travel to Tulum, and here my boyfriend and I are discussing, whether we should stay in Tulum and take day trips to Bacalar and Akumal or whether we should take overnight stays in Bacalar and playa del Carmen as you recommend. my boyfriend feels stressful changing hotel all the time and driving so much. did you find it stressful? and would you have done something different now if you could? we arrive March 2 and travel home March 11, 2022 – can we snorkel with sea turtles at this time? or is it only possible in the sea turtle season? thanks in advance. Sincerely, Christina

It all depends on your tastes, but I’d be more likely to stay somewhere other than Tulum and day trip to it rather than from it! The prices, crowds, and traffic are all much higher in Tulum than in the surrounding areas.

Basing yourself in fewer places and taking day trips is definitely much easier than changing hotels every night! That being said, driving in the Yucatan is pretty simple once you’re outside the larger cities.

The sea turtles are in Akumal year-round, you shouldn’t have any problem seeing them in March. 🙂

Hope you guys have a great trip!

Thank you for the great ideas and suggestions . We are planning on visiting Cancun in April 24, 2022. We are looking for transportation from Cancun Airport to Valladolid. We don’t want to rent a car, any suggestions? Thank you in advance

Sincerely, Estela

If you don’t want to drive, the easiest way is definitely to take the ADO bus! You’ll need to take one bus from the airport to the downtown terminal or Playa del Carmen, and then catch a bus to Valladolid.

The ADO buses are very comfortable and popular with travelers (but bring a jacket because they tend to blast the a/c).

Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or private transfer, but it will be very expensive!

Hi Kate – Thank you for all the great tips! We are trying to figure out how to rent a car after our trip to Isla Mujeres. Essentially we are flying into Cancun, going to Isla Mujeres and then renting a car to drive around the Riviera Maya. We’ll return the car. I tried the car rental place but I can’t figure out how to rent near the Isla Mujeres ferry. Any tips? Thank you!

Hi Mary! It’s just a quick cab ride from the ferry to the airport, where you can easily rent a car. Taking a taxi to the rental car agency will likely be the simplest way to get there.

Thanks a mill for this itinerary! We are planning 2-3 weeks for my big milestone birthday so having the different add-ons to extend the trip is so great 🙂

Just nervous about driving, as we drive on left side here in Ireland but I’m sure I’ll figure it out!

You definitely will! We’ve gone the opposite way (spent about a month in total driving in Ireland) and it wasn’t nearly as bad switching between the sides as we feared. 🙂

Hello, thanks for this great post! My husband and I were in this area 20 years ago but a lot has changed! We are considering traveling here with our kids (ages 16 & 12) in late June – early July. They are pretty experienced travelers and have been to different areas in MX a few times before. I’m just worried that the level of heat, rain & mosquitos might make the trip unpleasant. We were in Greece last summer and found that as long as we arranged our day to be in water, AC or driving for the middle part of the day we were fine, but that was dry heat. Any advice? Thanks much!

Hi Rebecca,

With the caveat that I spent my upbringing in very hot and humid climates (Texas, Florida, Oklahoma), I would say that generally speaking, the humidity will probably be more intense than in Greece but the general format of your trip will still be doable.

The heat will be more of an issue at the inland locations for sure, I’d definitely plan on some slow afternoons at cenotes and/or resting, and try to reach any ruins you visit first thing in the morning.

There will definitely be weather moments that can be described as unpleasant, but that personally wouldn’t be enough to keep me away from Mexico. 🙂

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• Mexico City
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• 5 Days in Mexico City
• 10-Day Baja California Road Trip
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• 10-Day Guanajuato Road Trip
• 10-Day Yucatan Road Trip
• 10-Day Oaxaca Road Trip
• Playa del Carmen
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• Isla Mujeres
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• Puerto Escondido
• Hot Springs
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• Mexico Fun Facts
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Yucatan Road Trip: My 10-Day Yucatan Itinerary [2024]

• by Nellie Huang

For an epic Yucatan road trip, here is a detailed 10-day Yucatan itinerary packed with outdoor adventures and cultural immersions.

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is a lot more than just all-inclusive resorts and wide sandy beaches — it’s dotted with gorgeous cenotes (underwater sinkholes), impressive ancient ruins and charming colonial towns. Since moving here, we’ve discovered that the region really has no shortage of archaeological ruins, historical colonial cities, and freshwater caves.

We chose to live here, for good reasons! I promise you’ll fall for the Yucatan, just as we did. To help you plan the perfect Yucatan road trip , I’ve put together this action-packed Yucatan itinerary that will show you the best beaches, colonial cities and ancient sites in just 10 days.

Table of Contents

How to Get to the Yucatan Peninsula

Mexico travel requirements , best time for a yucatan road trip, is this yucatan road trip safe, how much does a yucatan road trip cost, where to stay in valladolid, yucatan itinerary day 2: valladolid, swim in cenote zaci, visit convent of san bernardino, visit the stunning cenote suytun, explore ek balam , swim in cenote x’canche, float in cenote ik kil, visit the yellow city of izamal,  soak up mexican culture in merida, where to stay in merida, see the monumento a la patria, visit  the palacio de gobierno, explore the mayan world museum of merida, catch a pok ta pok mayan ball game, experience a shaman ritual in cenote sacamucuy, where to stay in tulum, visit  mystika tulum, swim in the gran cenote, extending your yucatan road trip, more travel tips for the yucatan:, further reading on mexico, yucatan  road trip guide.

The main gateway to Yucatan is Cancun International Airport (even though Cancun is not in the Yucatan state). Flying into Cancun from the US is really affordable. You can  fly from New York to Cancun  for as little as $300 return (4.5-hour flight).  Flights from Los Angeles to Cancun  are slightly more expensive around US$350 return (4.5-hour flight).

Book Flights to Cancun

Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane or ferry. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.

However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. It is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19.

Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my  travel insurance guide  for more details.

How to Get Around the Yucatan

For this Yucatan road trip, I recommend hiring a compact car. An economy rental car in Mexico averages just $200 for a whole week, which is less than $25 a day. The current price for gas is 16.50 pesos per liter (about $2.50 per gallon), though this varies throughout the country.

It’s generally easy to drive in Mexico, especially outside of the cities. I drive in Playa del Carmen everyday and find it quite easy: just watch out for portholes and crazy drivers! In this Yucatan itinerary, we cover roads that are in relatively good conditions. 

Check Car Rental Prices

If you don’t want to drive in Mexico, it is absolutely possible to follow this Yucatan itinerary by bus. Mexico has an extensive bus network and buses are really affordable. The buses are generally good quality and air-conditioned. The most popular bus company in the region is Grupo ADO. Book tickets online to ensure availability . Some offer luxury or de lujo services with lots of legroom, reclining seats, and TVs.

The best time to visit the Yucatan is during the dry season between December and April , when there is virtually no rain. Head to the Yucatan Peninsula at the start of the season (November to early December) when prices are lower. Read this guide on the best time to visit the Riviera Maya .

The wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October. The Caribbean coast can be affected by the hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Try to avoid public holiday as surcharges are common around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter.

 Yucatan is one of the safest places in Mexico for travelers . While petty crime is common here, it has one of the lowest rates of homicide in Mexico (10 times lower than the rest of the country).

Many travelers report that taking public transport around the peninsula is safe during the day. However, like the rest of Mexico, it’s advised not to travel around at night . Carjackings have been reported, most occurring at night or on desolate roads.

A common scam targeting visitors is money switching, particularly at gas stations. You may hand over a 500 peso note and the attendant swiftly changes it for a 50 peso note, insisting you need to pay more. Make sure when you hand over the correct amount, keep your eyes on them and don’t leave until you have the correct change.

Mexico is generally very affordable, but the Yucatan Peninsula is slightly more expensive than other parts of Mexico that receive less tourism. Budget travelers can survive on around US$40 – $50 per day.

My 10-Day Yucatan  Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Cancun
• Day 2: Valladolid
• Day 3: Day Trip to Ek Balam
• Day 4: Day Trip to Chichen Itza
• Days 5-7: Merida
• Day 8-10: Tulum

Yucatan Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in CANCUN

Begin your 2-week Mexico itinerary in Cancun. If you’re coming a long way here, then spend a few nights at a resort in Cancun and have some downtime. Check out our list of fun things to do in Cancun and where to stay in Cancun . But for those who don’t like lazing at an all-inclusive resort (like us), I recommend heading straight to Valladolid.

Calm and unpretentious Valladolid is one of the best kept secrets of the  Yucatan Peninsula . Despite being the closest town to  Chichen Itza, Valladolid is surprisingly quiet and laidback. It’s a 2-hour drive away from Cancun, on a new tolled highway.

Listed as one of Mexico’s  pueblo magico  (magical towns), Valladolid is lined with cobblestoned streets, pastel colored houses and old colonial buildings converted into art galleries or indie boutiques. It also has a large Mayan population — you’ll see plenty of locals walking around in traditional dress and lots of the restaurants serving typical Mayan dishes.

Budget: Casa Hipil

A lovely homely budget option, this place feels more like a guesthouse than a hotel and even has a lounge and communal kitchen. It’s warm and welcoming with clean and comfortable en suite rooms. Check rates here.

Midrange: Hotel Colonial Zaci

Located just one block from the main central square, Hotel Colonial Zaci is a graceful and elegant choice. Rooms feature dark wood furniture and beautifully-patterned tiles on the floor, but also feel modern and updated. There’s also a lovely central courtyard to relax in. Check rates here. 

Luxury: Le Muuch

One of the best and newest hotels in Valladolid, Le Muuch is full of charm and color. Open-air public spaces feel jungle-like with lots of plants and foliage. Individually-decorated rooms are themed around different precious stones and feature added touches such as a hammock, traditional cookies and local Mexican coffee. Check rates here.

Don’t be fooled by the small size of Valladolid. There are actually many things to do in Valladolid , from exploring archaeological sites to cenotes and charming colonial architecture.

One of the best things to do in Valladolid is to wander around town aimlessly. It’s such a pleasure strolling along the streets, admiring the pastel colored houses and wondering what surprise is in store around each corner.

The most photogenic street in Valladolid is the Calzada de los Frailes, which has been tastefully restored with indie boutiques, museums, and small cafes. Be sure to stop at  Idilio Folklore Cervecero , a stylish restaurant that offers a small museum and beer tasting sessions.

Valladolid is unique in the fact that it boasts a cenote right in the center of town: the Cenote Zaci . While beautiful and easy to get to, it’s not the most spectacular of the Cenote’s close to Valladolid. One of the best we visited was Cenote Saamal , a very deep cenote with a gorgeous tumbling waterfall. Just grab a taxi from the central square to get there.

In the evening, head out to the elegant San Bernardino Convent , where you’ll see video mapping and colored lights are projected onto the sides of the complex. The projections tell the story of Valladolid and its history in a beautiful and magical way. Check with the Tourist Information Office on the main square as to the days and timings.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 3:  Ek Balam

I’m a big fan of cenotes: they’re in essence natural sinkholes or caves that contain water. Cenotes were commonly used for water supplies by the ancient Maya, and occasionally for sacrificial offerings. Of all the cenotes I’ve been, my absolute favorite is   Cenote Suytun .

Yes, it’s risen to enormous fame thanks to Instagram, but it’s one of those rare few places that’s actually as magical as it appears in photos. I took the following photos with my iPhone (no filter!) and didn’t need any fancy photography equipment.

If you visit first thing in the morning (9am) like we did, you’ll avoid the crowd and be able to capture the famous sunbeam (provided it’s sunny). It’s only a 12-minute drive from Valladolid. Read my guide to visiting Cenote Suytun .

A 20-minute drive from Cenote Suytun is the spectacular and less-visited archaeological site, Ek Balam . It’s equally impressive but far less commercialised (you won’t find any vendors here!). Read my guide to Ek Balam ruins .

It’s also still possible to climb to the top of the pyramids. At 100 feet (29m) high,  the Acropolis  is the tallest structure in Ek Balam. A spectacular view awaits at the top: ancient pyramids poking above the tree canopy and lush green jungles for as far as the eye can see!

Midway to the top of the pyramids is the tomb of Ek Balam’s powerful ruler, Ukil-Kan-Lek-Tok, who reigned during the city’s peak in 800 A.D. The tomb is being restored, but you can see carvings, paintings, and murals.

Next to the archaeological site of Ek Balam is the wild and rugged Cenote X’canche .We absolutely loved the wild and atmospheric setting of this cenote. It’s surrounded by the jungle, with tree roots hanging over the spearmint blue water and rickety wooden bridges running along the sides of the cenote. There’s also a zipline over head, which our 6.5 year old daughter loved!

Best of all, it was actually empty when we visited on a Saturday afternoon, and we had the whole place to ourselves.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 4: Chichen Itza

One of the highlights for any first-time visitor to the Yucatan Peninsula is surely Chichen Itza , one of the country’s most celebrated Mayan archaeological sites. An important Mayan-Toltec city it spans a thousand years of history. Today, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , it ranks #1 on the best things to do in  Yucatan .

It’s only a 30-minute drive from Valladolid, but I recommend leaving early and reaching the site around 8am, before all the day-trippers arrive from Cancun. I also suggest hiring a guide, as there aren’t many plaques or information. Read my guide on how to get to Chichen Itza .

No trip to Chichen Itza is complete without a swim in the Cenote Ik Kil , a sinkhole that is connected to Chichen Itza by a raised pathway. It’s said that this large natural well may have given Chichen Itza (“Well of the Itzáes”) its name.

The use of the Sacred Cenote was exclusively ceremonial. Over the years, the water has yielded many artifacts including gold, jade, copper, shells and the bones of around 200 people who were thrown in as a sacrifice.

This cenote isn’t my favorite, as it’s the most commercialized that we visited (artificial stairways, lookout points and too many tour groups). But with an almost perfect circular opening and lush green vegetation dangling over the water, the cenote definitely has a stunning setting.

Cost: 150 Pesos ($7.50) per person

Yucatan Itinerary Day 5:  Merida

Start by strolling along the Paseo de Montejo, a tree-lined street flanked by the most beautiful buildings in Merida. Walk the whole length of 2 miles or 3.2km, and make stops at the numerous cute cafes and chic shops along the way. Read our full list of 30 best things to do in Merida .

Budget: Hotel & Hostal Boutique Casa Garza

A beautiful budget option for solo travelers, this centrally-located hostel has beautiful rooms with a garden, terrace and small pool. Check rates here.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 6:  Merida

Dating back to 1892, the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace) houses Yucatan state’s executive government offices and it’s open to the public. You’ll find murals and oil paintings by local artist Fernando Castro Pacheco, depicting the Yucatan Peninsula’s history.

A 20-minute drive from Merida is the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Mayan World Museum), which houses the largest collection of Mayan art and artifacts in the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s lauded as the best museum in Merida, so it’s worth a trip for art and history lovers. Note: it’s closed on Tuesdays.

Pok Ta Pok is an ancient Mayan game that was played thousands of years ago. The ball game was part of a sacred, sacrificial ceremony, pitting good against evil. The winner (yes, winner!) of the game was sacrificed, which was then the highest honor bestowed on a Mayan player.

On Friday nights at 8-9pm, the ancient sport is reenacted in front of Merida Cathedral – luckily though, sans sacrifice. It’s fun to watch and it gets pretty crazy towards the end, when the ball is literally ON FIRE, prompting faster passes, for sure.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 7:  Uxmal Day Trip

Yucatan Itinerary Day 8:  Drive to Tulum

Even so, the area near the beach hasn’t been overly built up and the jungle comes right down the sand. Beyond the beach, you’ll also find  cenotes (sinkholes filled with crystal clear waters), secluded lagoons, turtle reserves, and fascinating Mayan ruins that have been tumbled and shaped by time. Check out our list of best things to do in Tulum .

The town itself doesn’t have any particular attractions, but it’s great for tacos and vegan food. For lunch, there are some great places to dine in town. If you’re a vegetarian, I highly recommend La Hoja Verde , which offers lots of typical Mexican dishes with vegetarian alternatives. The other place I absolutely loved was Burrito Amor , who make their own deliciously spicy sauces.

Budget: Che Tulum Hostel

Situated in the center of Tulum Town, this may be a budget choice, but it still offers an outdoor pool and fun hip vibe. There are both private and dorm rooms available, as well as lockers and free wi-fi. They also rent bikes, so you can easily cycle to the beach. Check the rates here.

Midrange: Coco Hacienda

Sitting on the edge of town, the Coco Hacienda is a great option for those who don’t want to pay the high prices on the beach, but still enjoy being surrounded by nature. As it is located a bit out of the center, the hotel has a large tropical garden filled with palms and banana fronds. It’s built in a rustic colonial style and has two tranquil swimming pools. Check the rates here.

Luxury: The Beach

As the name suggests, this gorgeous eco-boutique hotel sits right on the beach and offers a boho-chic vibe with a rustic charm. The luxurious thatched cottages offer private plunge pools and hammocks, while the communal areas feature several pools hidden amongst the jungle foliage. There are also free yoga classes each morning. Check the rates here.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 9: Tulum Ruins

You can’t travel to Yucatan without visiting the Tulum Archeological Zone . The area is filled with Mayan ruins, which sit high above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, as well as numerous iguana and tropical flora. Remember to bring your bathing suit as there are a few lovely white sand beaches, which can only be accessed from the site.

After a busy day under the sun, head to the Gran Cenote , a gorgeous sinkhole filled with clear turquoise-colored waters, partly open to the sky and partly under an enchanting cave. Remember to bring a mask and snorkel with you (or rent one when you’re there) as a variety of fish and turtles live beneath the surface.

 Itinerary Day 10: Fly Home!

If you have some extra time before your flight, I recommend doing a day trip from Tulum checking out cenotes and wilderness reserves in the area. Some of my favorite cenotes include Car Wash Cenote, Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido . Each one is totally unique and beautiful in its own way.

• Buy a Mexican SIM card before you start this Yucatan road trip.  Having internet data will make it easier to navigate, do research on the go and contact hotels etc. You can get a Telmex SIM card from OXXO for less than $10.
• Pump your gas in advance, don’t wait until your gas tank is completely empty. We always use PEMEX (the petrol kiosk withe the best prices), as we’ve always found the staff to be reliable. They always pump it for you, though they expect a small tip.
• Try to avoid driving at night, as you won’t be able to see the speed bumps.
• That brings me to my next point —   you’ll find MANY speed bumps (topes) on the roads of Yucatan, including on the federal highway. Some of them are treacherous, so make sure you slow down when you see a sign that says ‘TOPE’.
• Don’t leave anything visible in your car, to avoid break-ins and theft. We always leave anything we have in the trunk.
• Parking is super easy anywhere in the Yucatan Peninsula . In the city centers, there are usually street parking (marked by white squares) and green parking meters for paying. You simply key in your license plate number and throw in a few coins (average cost is 10 pesos/hour). Once outside the center, parking is free.

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

• 35 Fun Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula
• 30 Cool Things to Do in Tulum
• 20 Best Day Trips from Tulum
• 30 Fun Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• 30 Best Things to Do in Merida
• 20 Cool Things to Do in Valladolid, Mexico
• My Guide to Isla Holbox Mexico
• 10-Day Oaxaca Road Trip Itinerary
• 10-Day Baja California Itinerary
• 10-Day Guanajuato Itinerary
• 5-Day Mexico City Itinerary
• 10-Day Copper Canyon Itinerary

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15 thoughts on “Yucatan Road Trip: My 10-Day Yucatan Itinerary [2024]”

thanks for this trip plan! A few good ideas for me.

peeked at your WildJunket very quickly…and my first thought was:

The true voyage of discovery is not in going to new places, but in seeing with new eyes. – Marcel Proust

And this is coming from 80+ country traveler….most of recent travels – past decade, most places have been to countries I’ve already been to – but certain specific places.

Most unexplored place in the world…is looking back at you in the mirror….ever heard of a True Mirror?

anyway…like your photos of the Yucatan. 2nd trip to Yucatan next year…but will rent car, so not dependent on tours, buses, guides.

Thanks very much for the kinds words! Interesting stuff.. I need to go read up on True Mirror!

I think one thing to mention is that MERIDA is a HUGE CITY / area of 1.2 million people. which may come as a shock to anyone traveling in Yucatan. There is no other city larger than 100,000 people (Per wiki).

All your lodging choices (Look nice) are smack dab in the middle of the city…which I guess is ok if you arrive by bus or what not…but I’m not driving through that mess of streets in a car. Don’t use GPS – just printed maps (sometimes I print google maps out) and sense of direction.

Want to visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, but that’s on the fringe a little, on a major street. I think staying in Progreso is a better choice or Ixmal. Or for a visit to Uxmal, right near Uxmal in small towns.

You’ve added several days to my planned trip!

Ah yes.. Merida is a big city, but honestly the town center doesn’t feel that way. It feels rather quaint and small to me. We drove our car and stayed in the center of the historical city. The streets aren’t too messy or hectic to navigate and there’s not a lot of traffic. We parked the car at the hotel and mostly walked everywhere, but used to it to explore outside of the historic center like the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya and Uxmal. Progreso does look pretty laidback (I made a new friend who lives there) and we definitely want to visit someday!

ok..took a closer look…if one stays on the main drag or two, easy to avoid 99% of all other streets…so staying in the center is not as bad as I thought.

Also I see the sequential street numbering, so not hard to get around from that angle.

Progreso still looks more peaceful for the $! 🙂 We’ll see…

Hi! Your information about the Yucatan is awesome. Can one safely travel with small children?

hi Rachel, yes! We live in the Yucatan Peninsula (specifically Playa del Carmen) with our 7-year-old daughter and we feel safe traveling around the region with her. The area is great for kids because of all the outdoorsy activities available, like cenote-hopping, exploring Mayan ruins, and beach combing.

Hi Nellie, your 10-day road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula sounds great. I was curious how much downtime there is factored in. My wife and I are going on a 8/9 day trip at the end of November and I want to make sure we don’t end up rushing around too much. How would you adapt the trip to allow enough downtime? Any suggestions you can give would be much appreciated. Thanks, Phil

hi Phil, thanks for dropping in! Honestly, there’s not a lot of downtime factored in. If you want to allow for some downtime, I would suggest removing Uxmal from the itinerary (since you’ll be seeing Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Tulum ruins) and then spending the day relaxing in Merida or even going to Tulum earlier to chill on the beach. You can also skip the cenotes in Tulum since you’d have visited a few in Valladolid (which in my opinion are better there). Hope this helps!

Just wondering if it’s possible to do 5 days of all inclusive resort and 4 days of road trip. Do you know if I can book separately?

hi Cathy, oh it’s all up to you and what kind of travel you like. I personally don’t like all inclusive resorts but it’s easy to see why it appeals to so many people. You can definitely book it yourself and then hire a car to do the road trip yourself. If you need some ideas on where to stay, check out this Cancun article I’ve written. From there, you can do a short road trip to just Valladolid, Chichen Itza, and Cenote Suytun. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay on the coast, then you can head down to Tulum, see the Tulum ruins and explore the cenotes near there. I’ve written about all these destinations so feel free to search on my site.

Great itinerary! We have been to Mexico several times and done road trips. We felt that it was safe, and smooth sailing. I think I have been to all the places on your list! We love visiting cenotes, Mayan ruins, and places in the cities.

Hi Nellie, just want to thank you so much for all of the wonderful tips you have provided! We have 6 nights booked in Merida at an AirBnB, and another 7 nights in the Yucatan area. Your advice is helping me to plan a route and narrow down where we should stay for the later half of the trip. Thanks again from Canada.

Aww Kathie, thank you for the very kind comment! I’m so glad you’ve found my tips helpful! Have a great trip in the Yucatan Peninsula. 🙂

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Magical Yucatan Road Trip: Your 10-Day Itinerary for 2024

Embarking on a Yucatan road trip is a highlight of any trip to Mexico. In fact, for many people, seeing the sunbleached Mayan ruins and the quaint traditional villages nestled in the heart of the Yucatan is the entire reason that they decide to visit Mexico in the first place. 

This guide showcases a 10-day Yucatan road trip itinerary. It has been written by someone who actually lives in the Yucatan (me) and who has traveled to corners of the state that most people have never even heard of! 

10-14 days is a perfect amount of time for an initial trip to the Yucatan. However, if your schedule allows it, you could easily spend several months here, using the cultural capital of Merida as a base. After spending weeks in the region, you are still constantly discovering new places. 

Table of Contents

Your 10-Day Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary 

This 10-day Yucatan road trip itinerary starts in the state’s cultural capital Merida. You can catch a direct international flight to Merida from several cities in the United States and Latin America. Alternatively, you can transfer within Mexico via either Mexico City airport or Guadalajara. Merida Airport (MID) is conveniently located in the heart of the city center, making it easy to get from here to your hotel on arrival. If it is easier for you to fly into Cancun, you can also do this itinerary in reverse, using Cancun as your starting point. 

Yucatan Itinerary Days 1-2: Merida & Surroundings 

Start your Yucatan road trip itinerary by exploring the region’s cultural capital Merida. For the time being, Merida still remains relatively off the main tourist trail of Mexico. Its historic center is arguably the most beautiful colonial settlement in Mexico. It is characterized by quaint, colorful houses that have been painted virtually every color of the rainbow, narrow cobbled streets that open out into grand piazzas, and old colonial mansions. There are plenty of things to do in Merida to keep you occupied for weeks. The city, known locally as ¨the white city¨ was founded by Montejo y León in 1542. Many of the old houses, haciendas, and former mansions in the historic center have been converted into fine-dining restaurants, boutique stores showcasing the works of independent designers and eclectic coffee shops. The likes of Travel and Leisure and Conde Nast have recognized Merida as one of the best cities in the world in 2022! Visit now before the hordes arrive.

Visit the ruins of Dzibilchaltun 

The ancient Mayan city of Dzibilchaltun sits in the northern part of Merida. It is easily accessible via bus or by Uber/Didi cab. The ruins are overlooked from most Yucatan itineraries, yet they are some of the most rewarding in the region. The name Dzibilchaltun means “writing on the flat stones” in Ancient Mayan. This is thought to point to the inscribed tablets that were found scattered around the site. The city dates back to around 200AD and at one point, was home to more than 25,000 people. There are several interesting pyramids and shrines scattered around the complex. Unlike the ruins at Chichen Itza, it is possible to climb and explore all of the structures at Dzibilchaltun. The most fascinating structure is the Temple of the Seven Dolls, believed to be dedicated to Yum Kax, the Mayan God of corn. The temple takes its name from seven crudely made clay dolls that were found inside. 

Admission to Dzibilchaltun is 282 pesos ($14) per person. You should also visit the on-site museum which provides more information and context. 

Explore the historic center of Merida 

Part of the fun of visiting Merida is simply found in taking the time to get lost in the various city streets and districts. Start by walking the Paseo Montejo – the main promenade that runs all the way from the center of town to the periferico in the north. In particular, you should look out for the giant Monument de la Patria. This towering monument depicting an indigenous Mayan man was created by Colombian sculptor Rómulo Rozo in 1956. At its rear, are 300 intricately carved smaller sculptures that depict historical events in Mexico through the centuries. On Sunday mornings, the Paseo Montejo is closed off to traffic so that pedestrians can walk or cycle along its length. This is a pleasant thing to do if your trip falls on a weekend. From the Paseo Montejo, continue onwards to the old squares of Merida. Admire the San Ildefonso Merida cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas. The Iglesia de Santa Lucia is a magnificent church that dates back to 1620 and sits beside the central park of the same name

Meanwhile, the Iglesia de la Tercera Orden is a baroque-style church with indigenous influences that is quite unlike anything you will find elsewhere. When night falls, head to the bustling Parque Aleman in the northeastern part of the city center to hang out with locals and indulge in street food eats such as elotes, marquesitas, and esquites. 

Enjoy a beach day at Progreso or Yucalpeten  

The little beach town of Progreso is situated 30km away from Merida and is easily accessible via bus or Uber. It borders the aquamarine waters of the Gulf of Mexico and boasts soft, powdery white sand that extends as far as the eye can see. Progreso may not exude the same desert island paradise feel that the beaches of the Mexican Caribbean do. But it provides some great respite from the heat and humidity of the Yucatan if you are looking for a day by the sea. Lay your towel down on the sand, or rent a sunbed and an umbrella from one of the local beach bars for a couple of pesos. Here, vendors walk up and down the beach selling fresh coconut and chicharron. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and stores for when you start to get hungry. El Cordobes (C. 80 38, Centro, 97320 Progreso) is a great place to stop for a traditional Mexican breakfast. Meanwhile, Crabster Progreso (C. 19 148a, Boulevard Turístico Malecón) serves fresh seafood prepared with only the latest catches. 

Progreso can get very crowded on Sundays when everyone is off work. Visit during the week for a quieter experience. Alternatively, you can head to Pig beach in Yucalpeten. The beach takes its name from 7 adorable little Vietnamese rescue pigs that live here. 

Think of it as being the Mexican version of Exuma in the Bahamas! Since being rescued, the pigs are now cared for by Progreso Ecological Patrol. They have adapted to their surroundings and love to swim in the warm waters of the Mexican Gulf. 

Sample traditional Yucatecan food   

Regional cuisine varies significantly from one part of Mexico to another. Yucatecan food is particularly unique and is likely very different from anything you have eaten before. 

The fascinating thing about this cuisine is how old it is. Many recipes are pre-Colombian and were invented by the Ancient Maya! Today, many of them are created using the same traditional methods that the Ancient Maya used all those centuries ago. You will not have to look far to find Yucatecan food in the Yucatan. However, several Merida restaurants stand out above the rest. For homely Yucatecan dishes in a restaurant predominantly frequented by locals, head to Habaneros (Calle 20-A Num 302 X 5b Y 5c, Xcumpich). For traditional food served in a gorgeous 16th-century hacienda, head to Hacienda Teya (Merida – Peto, Hacienda, 97370 Teya). 

Visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida

The Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida is without hesitation the best museum in Merida. Visiting the museum helps to give context to the various Mayan ruins that you will see around the Yucatan, and to gain a better understanding of the Mayan civilization. Over 1160 cultural objects are on display here. They range from textiles and traditional Mexican clothing to art pieces and artifacts recovered from ancient cities. 

The museum is not quite on the same scale as the Museo Nacional de Antropología in Mexico City, but it is equally as worthy of your time. Admission is 150 pesos ($7.50) for foreign tourists, with concessions available for Mexicans and Yucatecans. 

Where to stay in Merida 

If you are only going to be in Merida for a couple of days, it is better to choose a central location when deciding where to stay in Merida . The Zocalo,  the Parque de Santa Lucia, and the Parque de Santa Ana all place you right in the heart of the action. From here, you have a plethora of shopping, dining, and nightlife choices right on your doorstep. If you prefer to be in a more rural setting, there are several Yucatan haciendas near Merida that offer the ultimate luxury stay. However, keep in mind that they are a little further out of the center. Hacienda Santa Cruz and Hacienda San Jose are arguably the two best choices less than 30 minutes away from the historic center. 

Best Hotels in Merida 

Merida offers a plethora of accommodation options for every taste, travel style, and budget. A selection of the best hotels in the city is shortlisted below for your consideration. 

• Casa Del Balam – Gorgeous boutique hotel inside a renovated art deco mansion. Double rooms from just $45 USD per night.
• Hotel Embajadores – Comfortable budget hotel in the city center with a pool and traditional Yucatecan restaurant. Double rooms from $30 a night.
• Diez Diez Collection – Luxury hotel without the luxury price tag.  Stylish contemporary property with plush modern furnishings, unique artwork pieces, and a rooftop pool. Double rooms from $138 a night.
• Rosas Y Xocolat – Exquisite French mansion converted into grand, palatial-style hotel rooms fit for royalty. Rooms with private terraces from $300 a night.
• Hotel Boutique Casa Flor de Mayo – Eccentric, colorful, independently-owned property with just 8 rooms set inside an old colonial house. Rooms from $60 a night. 

Yucatan Itinerary Day 3: Uxmal Ruins 

The Ancient city of Uxmal is widely regarded as being one of the most important Mayan settlements. Its importance is on par with Chichen Itza, Edzna , and the city of Mayapan.  

The city dates back to 700 AD and is said to have been founded by Hun Uitzil Chac Tutul Xiu. However, much of the construction that you see today was built when Uxmal was the Mayan capital between 850-925 AD. It was one of the most important political and administrative hubs and at the height of the Mayan civilization, more than 25,000 people called the city home. Today, the ruins are home to some of the best-preserved Terminal Classic structures in Latin America. Upon entering the site, you are greeted with The Pyramid of the Magician, the most iconic image of the Uxmal ruins. As you continue through, you pass by the equally impressive Governor’s Palace and the Nunnery. Look out for the Pok-a-Tok ballcourt. This ancient Mesoamerican game was played using a hard rubber ball that players had to whack through a stone hoop mounted high on the walls using their hips. 

How to get to Uxmal

Buses from Merida to Uxmal run infrequently from Merida´s ADO central bus station. They depart at 06.00 am, 09.00 am, 12.00 pm, and 15,30 pm respectively. To allow yourself plenty of time, it is best to take the 09.00 am bus. The return journey from Uxmal to Merida departs at 14.30 pm. You only really need 3-4 hours to explore the ruins. However, you could pass the time by treating yourself to some regional food and Mexican drinks at one of the luxury hotel restaurants nearby. Alternatively, you can learn about the history of Mexican chocolate at the Choco-Story museum that sits directly across the road from Uxmal. 

Uxmal Tours

If you have a car, that obviously makes things a lot easier than having to wait around for the bus. You may also want to consider organizing an excursion with a local tour company to take some of the stress out of getting from A to B. A selection of reputable Uxmal tours is detailed below for your consideration. Book your spot online in advance to avoid disappointment!

• From Mérida: Uxmal and Kabah guided tour with lunch
• Uxmal light and sound night experience tour from Merida
• From Merida: Uxmal, Hacienda Yaxcopoil and Cenote with lunch
• Uxmal with private guide and transportation from Merida
• Uxmal: vintage land rover expedition to Uxmal cenotes 

Yucatan Itinerary Day 4: Santa Elena, Kabah, and Labna Ruins 

The Ruta Puuc (Puuc route) is an off-the-beaten-path part of the southwestern Yucatan that is home to several impressive Mayan sites. From Uxmal, you can drive onwards to the ancient cities of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, Labná, and the Loltún caves. 

Santa Elena

Santa Elena is a cute, quintessentially Yucatecan village that marks the halfway point between Uxmal and Kabah. It boasts a couple of accommodation choices for those wanting to explore the Ruta Puuc but it is far from touristic. There is little to see here, but there is just something charming about the town. Stop by for a cafe de olla in the town square, snap some photos of the quirky sculptures of Mexican singers and dancers, or grab homemade strawberries and cream ice cream at the colorful local Michoacana ice cream store. 

Kabah and Labná

A far cry from the crowded atmosphere of Chichen Itza, you may find that you have the entirety of these lesser-known ruins to yourself! Start with the city of Kabah, an ancient Mayan city that prospered at the same time as Uxmal. The city sees very few visitors which is a shame as it is one of the most impressive ruins in the Yucatan. Upon entering the complex, you are greeted with the grand-tiered building of ¨The Palace¨. However, perhaps most impressive of all is ¨The Temple of the Masks¨ on your right-hand side. A brief ascent up the centuries-old stone steps brings you to this phenomenal temple, dedicated to the Mayan rain god Chaac. Its facade is decorated with more than 250 intricately carved stone masks of the big-nosed God. A small inscribed altar in front of the temple building lies in ruin. As of yet, nobody has managed to decipher what the message carved into the stone means. Exiting the archeological site at Kabah and crossing the road brings you to an old Sacbe road that the Mayans would use to walk from Kabah to Uxmal. Here, in the middle of nowhere and not marked on any map, you will find a grand old ceremonial arch. It is believed that many more ruins remain hidden in the depths of the jungle here, but they have not yet been excavated. From here, continue onwards to the ruins of Labná. 

Labná is best known for its ornate archway that once served as the entrance to two grand courtyards. You will have likely seen this photographed in various Yucatan-related travel literature. Equally interesting are El Mirador, the structure of a pyramid topped with a temple, and El Palacio, another ruin decorated with Chaac masks.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 5: Homun Cenotes

One thing that the Yucatan region of Mexico is best known for is its cenotes. These are freshwater sinkholes that were created when the Chicxulub meteor that wiped out the dinosaurs crashed into the earth some 66 million years ago. You don’t have to venture too far to find Yucatan cenotes. It is estimated that there are more than 7,000 of them throughout this peninsula! The word cenote is of Mayan descent. It comes from the word word “Dz’onot” meaning “cavern with water”. The Ancient Mayans used the cenotes for both practical and religious purposes. Some were used to make offerings to the gods, some were used for human sacrifices, and some were simply used as water sources.

Visiting the Cenotes at Homun 

There are several cenotes throughout the Yucatan state that have become famous through social media. Unfortunately, these are crowded, and chaotic, and do not offer a relaxing experience. For the best cenotes in the region, head to the little town of Homun. This area is actually a anillo de los cenotes (ring of cenotes). You will find more than 20 cenotes here! It is easier to drive to Homun but you can also take a bus here from Merida. Once you arrive, you can hire a local guide and a motorbike taxi for around 200 pesos for the day (circa $10 USD). Tell the guide what kind of cenotes you are looking for (i.e. cenotes with platforms that are suitable for non-swimmers, cave cenotes, cenotes without tourists, etc). They will then form an itinerary and take you to 4-5 different spots. Alternatively, just instruct them to take you to their favorite places. Cenote Cholul is usually quite quiet and consists of two different pools. Look out for the Ancient Mayan handprints on your lefthand side after entering!

Meanwhile, Cenote Hool Kosom is one of the more photogenic cenotes. It is set inside a cave and boasts a white limestone roof with a small circular opening where the sunlight can pour in. After a day of cenote-hopping, enjoy lunch in Homun. The little town is charming. In particular, look out for the Parroquia San Buenaventura convent in the central square. This is a gorgeous Franciscan convent that dates back to the 16th century. 

If you enjoy driving, you can also venture onwards to some other little Yucatan villages and towns nearby. For instance, Cuzamá town offers lots of great grill house restaurants, while Hocaba also has a very charming church (Iglesia Principal San Francisco de Asis). 

Yucatan Road Trip Day 6: Motul and Izamal

Day 6 of this Yucatan road trip itinerary brings more off-the-beaten-path treasures as well as cultural highlights. Start by heading to the city of Motul, made famous by the invention of a popular local egg dish known as ¨huevos motulenos¨.

Motul isn’t a pretty town by any stretch of the imagination. However, if you seek out Mexican culture and gastronomy, it is one of the best cities in the Yucatan. 

Breakfast in Motul 

Huevos motulenos is a Yucatecan breakfast dish that you will find all over the Yucatan peninsula. It consists of tortillas topped with frijoles (black beans), fried eggs, ham peas, a tomato-based sauce, and plantains. Even though the dish is widely available, as far as Yucatecans are concerned, there is only one place to be eating it: in Motul. For the best of the best, head to Doña Evelia Huevos Motuleños restaurant in the Mercado Municipal 20 de Noviembre in Motul. You may have to wait 25-30 minutes to be served but rest assured, it is worth the wait. Wash it all down with a cafe de olla or a Mexican Chiapas coffee. As you dine, street performers play everything from Mexican banda music to classical Cuban songs. Look around and you will find that there is not another tourist in sight. Motul is perhaps the Yucatan´s best-kept secret. When you are sufficiently stuffed, the marketplace itself is worth a browse. Locals will tell you that they are unhappy with the ramshackle way that their Mercado looks due to a lack of funding and renovation from the government. However, the market, with its stalls selling everything from Yucatan honey to fresh Mexican fruits and veggies, possesses an authentic charm that simply isn’t found in more touristic markets. 

Chenche de las Torres

Chenche de las Torres is an unusual residential property that is well worth the quick detour to get to when traveling between Valladolid and Izamal. The hacienda, designed like a medieval European castle, was built during the henequen boom in the 18th century. Its owners, Don Alvaro Peón de Regil and Doña Joaquina Peón Castellanos, Counts of Miraflores owned several grand properties around the Yucatan. Their coat of arms can still be seen on the side of the house.

Today, Chenche de las Torres is a private residence. It was recently listed for sale for 1.9 million US dollars.

Within the grounds, there is a small chapel that Mexican families often rent for celebrations and events such as Quinceaneras. For 100 pesos (circa $5), you can tour the grounds and gardens of the property. It is a little slice of Europe in the middle of the Yucatan jungle.

Izamal, the Yellow City

The little town of Izamal, known as the Yucatan´s ¨Yellow City¨ is one of four Pueblo Magicos in the Yucatan state. Pueblo Magicos are towns and villages that have been recognized by the Mexican tourism board for their particularly interesting history, culture, or local gastronomy. 

Every building, church, and house in Izamal is painted in the same uniform shade of bright yellow. There are several different theories as to why this might be, with the most likely being that the town was decorated that way in honor of the Mayan Sun God Kinich Ahau.

Spend a few hours exploring Izamal and stop for lunch at restaurant Kinich (Calle 27.299y 28y 30, Centro). Here, you can indulge in exquisite regional fare beneath charming palapa huts. Nearby, you can climb the Kinich Kakmo pyramid dedicated to Kinich Ahau. Today, it is only one of a handful of pyramids in the Yucatan that survived the Spanish colonization. When sunset rolls around, head to the Convento de San Antonio de Padua to watch the sun dip behind the clouds. This is one of the oldest convents in all of Latin America and the largest of its kind in North America. 

Construction finished in 1561 and the site is still in operation today. If you walk past the garden at the rear, you may even see nuns sitting outside eating their lunch!

Yucatan Road Trip Day 7: Valladolid

After a leisurely breakfast in Izamal, set out on the journey to Valladolid. Valladolid, like Izamal, is also a Yucatan Pueblo Magico. 

The city dates back to 1543 and was developed by the descendants of Spanish Conquistadors. It was originally built close to a lagoon but then relocated inland, to its current location on the site of a Maya town. 

This led to several violent clashes and fights between the Spanish and the Maya that would last for centuries. Modern-day Valladolid is sleepy and tranquil – a stark contrast to its violent origins. 

A day is ample time to explore. Start by meandering through the little streets that veer off from the central square (Zocalo) and the Church of San Servacio. Be sure to stop by the colorful Convent San Bernardino too. 

It is one of the oldest convents in the Yucatan. You can opt to spend your day exploring the town and browsing its streets and markets, or you may want to spend a portion of your day swimming in a nearby cenote. There are a number of cenotes near Valladolid. The famous Cenote Suytan, Hacienda Cenote Oxmán, and Cenote Saamal are all worth considering. 

Yucatan Road Trip Day 8: Chichen Itza and Ek Balam

Saving the best til (near) last, day 8 of this Yucatan road trip is dedicated to exploring the phenomenal ruins of Chichen Itza, and the nearby site of Ek Balam. Chichen Itza is one of the ¨new¨ seven wonders of the world and needs no introduction. The ancient city was inscribed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1988. It is believed to have been founded around 400 AD and during its heyday, it was home to more than 35,000 people.

Chichen Itza

Arriving early to Chichen Itza is imperative. The site opens its doors at 8 am and you should aim to be there by 7.30 if you want to see the ruins without the crowds. By 9.30, a ton of tour buses have already started rolling in and the crowds take away from the magic somewhat. If you don’t fancy waking up early to drive or get the bus from Valladolid, you can consider spending the night in one of the hotels near the entrance. Opting to hire a tour guide can help you gain a more in-depth understanding of the site and the various structures scattered around it. However, information plaques and audio tours are also available if you prefer to explore independently. The Temple of Kukulkan is the most famous structure and it is the first thing that you see as soon as you enter the complex. Look out for a platform to its left known as a Tzompantli.  

This stone platform, with sculls carved into the stone, is where the Maya would display the severed heads of their enemies to scare off other tribes. Equally impressive is the nearby Temple of the Warriors, the Iglesia, and the Sacred Cenote where men and children would be thrown to their deaths as sacrifices to appease the gods. The Chichen Itza site is larger than people realize. You should dedicate 3-4 hours to exploring it. 

Recommended Chichen Itza tours

Prefer to explore Chichen Itza with a guide and not have to worry about the logistics of getting there? A selection of reputable Chichen Itza tours has been shortlisted below for your consideration.

• Chichen Itza skip-the-line entrance ticket
• Private tour of Chichen Itza with private transport
• From Merida: Chichen Itza, Yokdzonot Cenote, and cooking class
• From Merida: Chichen Itza & Cenote Tsukan guided tour
• Chichen Itza with a private guide and transportation from Merida
• Chichen Itza and outdoor sports in Cenote spring from Merida

Grab lunch in Piste 

If you want to grab some lunch before continuing to Ek Balam, you can stop at a restaurant in nearby Piste. This town is a little touristy, sure, but there is no such thing as bad Yucatecan food. Some of the markets and stores here are great for picking up trinkets and Mexican souvenirs such as ceremonial masks and handicrafts.  

Ek Balam, meaning ¨Black Jaguar¨ in Mayan is an ancient city that is only just starting to fall on people´s Yucatan travel radars. It makes a nice travel pairing with Chichen Itza, in part because there is only a distance of 67km (1 hour and 10 minutes) between the two sites. The city thrived between 770 and 840 AD. During this time, it was a major political hub for the region.

Fascinatingly, the ruins were not rediscovered until as recently as the 1980s! After they were abandoned, like many other Mayan cities, they were reclaimed by the jungle.

The most notable sights in Ek Balam today are the incredibly well-preserved stucco tomb of Ukil-Kan-Lek-Tok and El Torre. El Torre is a 95-foot pyramid that you can climb.

From the top, you have unparalleled views over the jungle canopy. On a clear day, you can see all the way out to Chichen Itza and Coba from up here!

Yucatan Itinerary Days 9 & 10: Kikil and El Cuyo

There is no better way to round off your Yucatan itinerary than with a few days spent relaxing in a tranquil beach town. Stopping at Kikil, start making your way toward the beach town of El Cuyo. 

Kikil and Cenote Kikil

The little village of Kikil is not a tourist destination. There is just something about it. The center boasts the ruins of an old convent, a tiny colorful church, and a smattering of street food stalls. Peculiarly, there is a local man that stands in the square with a saddled bull and lets people climb on top of it and take photos for a few pesos. Alarmingly, it’s mostly people with toddlers balancing their kids on the bull and laughing about it. It is an interesting spectacle to watch!  A lot of the people own ranches and live off the land, so you will find street stalls selling birria (goat stew from Jalisco ). This isn’t really common in the Yucatan but it is worth a try.

Although the dish is traditionally prepared with goat, in Kikil, it is prepared with beef. The meat is marinated with a selection of herbs, spices, and chilis. Then, it is served topped with onions and a pinch of lime.

After exploring the village, you may want to stop by the cenote. It is surrounded by lush tropical foliage and is arguably one of the most beautiful ones in the state. You will often find that there is nobody else here, perhaps bar the occasional iguana or motmot in the trees. 

While tourists flock to the coastal areas of Quintana Roo and elsewhere in Mexico (e.g. Puerto Vallarta , Cancun, and Tulum), those in the know know that El Cuyo is a more peaceful alternative. This little beach town is little more than a stretch of coastline with a small handful of hotels and restaurants around it. There are seldom (if ever) more than a handful of people on the beach here, largely because El Cuyo is so remote and not all that easy to get to. Days in El Cuyo are about lazing on tropical beaches, swimming and snorkeling in translucent waters, and spending your nights drinking pina coladas beneath the starry night sky.

Catching every sunrise and sunset over the Gulf of Mexico is a must. The wind conditions here are perfect for kitesurfing, and there is an ever-expanding community of kitesurfers that call the village home if that is something that you are interested to try your hand at.

Depart from Cancun/Merida

Depending on your schedule, depart from El Cuyo on day 10 or day 11 of your Yucatan road trip. You may choose to catch your onward flight from Cancun International Airport (CUN) or Merida International (MID).

It is a 163km (2.5 hour) drive from El Cuyo to Cancun. Traveling from El Cuyo to Merida takes 3.5 hours (261.7km).

Getting around the Yucatan

The easiest way to get around the Yucatan is to rent a car. Public transport in Mexico leaves a lot to be desired. Reaching some villages and ruins is near impossible if you do not have access to your own vehicle. Bus schedules here are limited, even to some of the country’s most famous attractions! If you do not feel confident driving alone and don’t want to rely on buses, you can also consider hiring local drivers or participating in local excursions. However, the price of doing so quickly adds up.

Renting a car in the Yucatan 

Renting a car in the Yucatan is not as daunting as it may sound. Mexico, in general, is a lot safer than people realize, and the Yucatan is one of the safest parts of the country .

You can opt to pick your rental car up from Merida or Cancun, or from the airport in either city. Do keep in mind, however, that one-way rentals are often substantially more expensive than renting a car and returning it to the same place you collected it from.

Many reputable international rental firms operate in the Yucatan, including Avis, Budget, and Europcar. Expect to pay around $30 a day for a car rental, including full-coverage insurance. Discover Cars is a great platform for comparing and contrasting quotes from different rental companies so that you can secure the best deal.

Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary FAQs 

Do you still have any burning questions or concerns about planning a Yucatan road trip itinerary? Hopefully, you will find the answers that you are looking for below! 

How many days do you need in the Yucatan peninsula?

10-14 days is a good amount of time for a first trip to the Yucatan. If you are short on time, you can cram some of the region’s highlights into 7 days. 

Is it safe to road trip in Yucatan?

The Yucatan peninsula is very safe and it is absolutely safe to travel around here independently. This applies even if you are a solo female traveler!

The Yucatan capital of Merida is not only the safest city in all of Mexico, but it is widely regarded as being one of the safest cities in the Americas, period! Leave your reservations at home and forget everything that you have heard about Mexico being a dangerous or lawless place when you come to the Yucatan. 

Is it easy to drive in Yucatan?

It is very easy to drive in the Yucatan peninsula. The roads here are in excellent condition and are well maintained. Driving in Mexico means driving on the right-hand side of the road , much like in the United States and most of the world. Roads are well signposted so it is easy to get to where you are going. 

As a rule of thumb, it is generally a good idea to avoid driving in the Yucatan at night. This is not because the area is dangerous, but because most roads are not well-lit. So, it makes it harder to see hazards such as stray dogs and wild animals that may wander onto the roads. 

How do I plan a trip to the Yucatan?

It is easy to plan a trip to the Yucatan. First, start researching the best places in the Yucatan that interest you the most. That may be secluded Yucatan beaches , caves, jungle treks, Mayan ruins , or quaint Pueblo Magicos . Then, take a look at a map of the area and start forming a route of how to get from A to B. Public transport runs between most major cities and tourist attractions, although the schedules are infrequent. Sites such as Bus Bud, Ado, and Rome2Rio are good for checking transport options. 

Final thoughts on taking a Yucatan road trip

What are your thoughts on this Yucatan road trip itinerary? Have you traveled to the Yucatan before? I have been living in Merida for a year now. 

If this is going to be your first trip to Mexico, you may also enjoy reading this post on Mexico travel tips to know before you travel. Have a wonderful time! Safe travels! Melissa xo

Melissa Douglas

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Two Weeks in Mexico: The BEST Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

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After spending a winter living in Mérida and years of trips traveling through the Yucatán Peninsula, I’ve finally put together the best itinerary for two weeks in Mexico.

Most travelers go to Mexico to lie on the beach for a week, maybe go on an excursion to a ruin or a cenote, and head straight home.

And yes. That can be fun. But you can do SO MUCH better than that!!

Mexico is one of my favorite countries. It’s absolutely brimming with culture and music and fantastic food and the nicest, kindest people. It’s diverse in experiences and it’s so much more than what most people think it is.

You might look at this itinerary and think to yourself, “You know, I’ve been to Playa del Carmen before. I’ve done Chichén Itzá, too. Is it worth it to go back to the same region?”

Yes. It’s worth it. Because the Yucatán is SO much more than just beaches and ruins. Plus, when you do it on your own — on a road trip or even by public transportation — it’s so much more satisfying than staying in a resort and traveling on tours.

Even if you’ve already been to a resort in the Cancún-Playa del Carmen-Tulum area, I encourage you to give road-tripping around the Yucatán Peninsula a chance. This is a fantastic part of Mexico.

You can download this as a printable itinerary here!

This post was most recently updated in January 2023.

Table of Contents

Two Weeks in Mexico

If you’ve got two weeks in Mexico, you could go in lots of different directions. Honestly, I’ve spent months in Mexico and my list of places I still haven’t been (Baja! Guanajuato! El Chepe!) is miles long.

But Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is great because it’s easy for all kinds of travelers, yet diverse and fulfilling enough for experienced travelers.

You’ll fly into Cancún International Airport, which is well-connected with lots of flights. You’ll drive on good roads. You’ll visit destinations that are accustomed to tourism — but not too overtouristed.

What does this part of Mexico look like? In two weeks in the Yucatán Peninsula, you could see places as varied as these:

Unusually, this Mexico itinerary does NOT include Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum. Almost every Yucatán road trip itinerary includes at least one of these destinations as a stopover. Not this time.

Why don’t I include them? Because there are better places to go.

My goal, today and always, is to ensure that you have the best trip possible. Those three destinations are overcrowded and expensive. You don’t have to go there just because everyone else does — but you’ll still pack in some beach time.

This two week trip to Mexico packs in so much! One of the coolest islands around, a big city with tons of great restaurants, ancient Mayan ruins, underground neon-blue cenotes, soft white sand beaches, and the Lake of Seven Colors.

Cenotes, in particular, are the best part of traveling the Yucatán, in my opinion.

Read More: 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Definitely don’t miss the vibrant city of Mérida , the lake of seven colors in Bacalar , and magical, bohemian Isla Holbox !

If you spend it in the Yucatán Peninsula , you’ll have easy access to beaches, ruins, cenotes, cool cities, and color-changing lakes.

Yes! The Yucatan is an incredibly safe part of Mexico (and Mérida is safer than every city in the US). It’s a safe place to travel solo as a woman.

The best time to visit the Yucatan is between December and March , when the weather is gorgeous and it isn’t too hot or too rainy.

Yucatán Road Trip Map

On the map above, you can see the driving route you would take on this trip. The destinations in blue are where you would overnight; the destinations in orange are day trip options.

Here is the two weeks in Mexico itinerary I recommend:

• Day 1: Arrive Cancún Airport, drive to Chiquilá, ferry to Holbox
• Days 2-3: Holbox
• Day 4: Drive from Holbox to Valladolíd
• Day 5: Valladolíd and surrounding area
• Day 6: Drive from Valladolíd to Río Lagartos
• Day 7: Drive from Río Lagartos to Mérida via Izamal
• Days 8-10: Mérida and day trips
• Day 11: Drive from Mérida to Bacalar
• Days 12-13: Bacalar
• Day 14: Drive from Bacalar to Cancún Airport

Day 1: Arrive Cancún, drive to Holbox

Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and drive to the town of Chiquilá (two hours). This town is where you get the ferry to Isla Holbox . Holbox is a car-free island (except for some local vehicles), so you’ll be leaving your car on the mainland for a few days. You can take a golf cart to your hotel!

Park in one of the many parking lots in Chiquilá — don’t worry, this is a safe place to leave your car! Plenty of tourists do every day. The rates are usually 100 pesos ($5) for 24 hours.

Head to the dock and hop on one of the ferries that run every half hour. The journey costs about 200 pesos ($10) for an adult.

Once you arrive on the island, walk or take a taxi to your accommodation (the taxis are all golf carts here!). Then just relax and stroll around the island, getting to know your new home for a few days. You’ll be spending three nights here.

Where to Stay in Holbox

Holbox is a small island, and I recommend staying within a few blocks of the main center. The western part of the island is home to lots of rentals, but there aren’t as many shops or restaurants.

If you want a luxury accommodation, I recommend Ser Casasandra . This is the best luxury spot on the island (and I stayed here on my first trip ). I love the beachfront area, the pool, the romantic design of the rooms, and the food is outstanding.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Hotel Para Ti . I stayed here on my second trip and absolutely loved this adults-only hotel. It has a great pool area, the decor is bohemian and fun, they are a perfect quiet location a few blocks from the town, and once again, ADULTS ONLY.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend Hotelito Villas Holbox . This hostel is right in the center of town, and rooms are small and basic but clean. If you want to stay at a hostel, I recommend Tribu , but know it can get loud at night.

Find deals on Holbox hotels here.

Days 2 and 3: Isla Holbox

Take these two full days to unwind on Isla Holbox. You can spend your time idling on the beach or taking day trips around the island. Either way, be sure to have some great cocktails and catch a few sunsets.

Things to Do in Isla Holbox

Take a boat trip to Cabo Catoche. I loved my trip to Cabo Catoche! This inlet is further away from town, but it’s where you get the clearest, most beautiful water. An absolute must for people who want good photos of Holbox. This Cabo Catoche tour includes snorkeling and/or fishing.

See three islands on a boat trip. This popular three-island boat trip will take you to Bird Island, home to tons of interesting birds; uninhabited Pasion Island, where you can walk on a sandbar; as well as the mainland to swim in Cenote Yalahau.

If you’re visiting from June through September, you can swim with whale sharks ! One of the coolest activities you can do in Mexico! Peak season is in July and August.

Head to Punta Cocos for the sunset. Watch with a cocktail in hand! It’s a very long walk and I recommend taking a taxi, as it will be dark when you start walking back. Taxis wait around to take people back after sunset. Bring mosquito repellant!

Just hang out on the beach. Even if you don’t book a hotel with beachfront access, there are lots of beach clubs and restaurants where you can set up camp for the day.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Isla Holbox, Mexico

Day 4: Holbox to Valladolíd

Take the ferry back to Chiquilá, pick up your car, and head out on the road. If you’re hungry, I recommend getting breakfast at La Sardina Enamorada on the mainland in Chiquilá.

Today you’ll be driving from Chiquilá to Valladolíd (just over two hours), crossing from Quintana Roo into Yucatán state.

Know that you will be crossing a time zone! As you cross into Yucatán state, time drops one hour earlier.

Valladolíd is one of the prettiest colonial towns in Mexico, and it’s especially nice in late afternoons and evenings, once the tourists day-tripping from all inclusive resorts go home. It feels gentle and welcoming. You’ll fall under its spell in no time.

Things to Do in Valladolíd

Take a dip in Cenote Zaci. Cenotes are all over the Yucatán, but Cenote Zaci is right in the middle of downtown Valladolíd! The water isn’t as clear as others but it’s a beautiful setting with waterfalls. It’s one of the deepest cenotes in the region, too, and hosts free diving competitions.

Note: Cenote Zaci closed for renovations in mid-2022. We hope it reopens soon. Their restaurant.

Enjoy the zócalo. Valladolíd’s main square is a lovely place to sit and people-watch.

Get gelato at Wabi Gelato . Good gelato is very hard to find in Mexico — this is a special place for a treat. Flavors are limited but inventive and change frequently. I loved their rosemary gelato.

Stroll down Calzada de los Frailes. This is arguably the prettiest street in Valladolíd, if not all the Yucatán, decorated with flags and lined with cafes, bakeries, shops, and hotels. I had a great pay de limón (lemon pie) at a cafe called ConKafecito .

Visit the Convent de San Bernardino de Siena. At the end of Calzada de los Frailes is a former convent that you can visit. There is a sound and light show in the evenings. This is also where you’ll find the town’s Valladolíd sign.

Where to Stay in Valladolíd

Valladolíd is a small, cheap city and you can enjoy it on a budget, but spending a bit more money can get you a much nicer hotel. I recommend staying within a few blocks of the zócalo, the main square, to maximize your time here.

If you want luxury accommodation, I recommend Le Muuch Hotel . This may be the most beautiful property in town with chic, colorful rooms and a beautiful outdoor area with hammocks and a pool.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Casa Tia Micha . This is a mid-range property that feels luxurious, from its classy stone bathtubs to its elegant carved wood furniture, but it’s well priced and central.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend Hotel Zazil-Maj . Here the rooms are simple but clean and recently renovated, just a few blocks from Cenote Zaci.

Find deals on places to stay in Valladolíd here .

Day 5: Valladolíd, Chichén Itza, and Cenotes

Today it’s all about seeing the surroundings of Valladolíd! First thing in the morning, head to the Chichén Itzá ruins (45 minutes). They open at 8:00 AM and I recommend being there as early as possible to get a good parking spot and avoid the tourist crowds from the resorts.

The Chichén Itzá ruins are some of the largest and most impressive ruins on the Yucatán Peninsula, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulkan, is an enormous and impressive pyramid, but I found that some of the most enjoyable sites are those further afield.

Keep in mind that Chichén Itzá allows merchants to sell direct on site, and it can get annoying having men constantly ask you to buy things. They sell devices that make a jaguar noise, so you’ll hear constant jaguar shrieks throughout your visit. Be ready for that!

Note: I do not recommend visiting Chichén Itzá on a Sunday. This is the day Mexicans get free admission. As a result, the site is even more insanely crowded and parking is a nightmare. If Day 5 is scheduled on a Sunday, I recommend going to Chichén Itzá on the afternoon of Day 4 instead.

After the ruins, backtrack a bit to enjoy a cenote. One of my favorite cenotes is in this region: Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman . I love this cenote because it’s visually spectacular, large, not too touristed, the grounds are lovely, and the food is surprisingly good. It’s solid all around and a great place to visit.

You do drive back toward Valladolíd for this cenote (50 minutes), but trust me, it’s best to visit Chichén Itzá in the morning when it’s less hot and crowded and then cool off in the cenote after.

Another option is Cenote Ik-Kil , which has a similar look and style, but this is much more popular with Chichén Itzá tourists and it gets more crowded.

You might want to head back to Valladolíd and have a relaxed, chilled out afternoon and evening.

But if you want to continue ruins-hopping, consider visiting Ek Balam, which is about a 30-minute drive north of Valladolíd. Ek Balam only gets a fraction of the tourists that Chichén Itza receives!

There are tons more cenotes surrounding Valladolíd, including Cenote Suytun, the Instagram-famous one with the platform. Be sure to check out the “cenotes near Valladolíd” section of my cenote guide .

Day 6: Valladolíd to Río Lagartos

Today you’re getting an early start and driving north to Río Lagartos. This is a short journey — just 90 minutes by car — but this is the only day that you have here.

Because of that, I urge you to book a Río Lagartos tour before you leave on your trip. It can be hard to jump on a tour same-day.

If you’ve dreamed of visiting pink lakes, that’s the star attraction of this region. Those pink lakes are called Las Coloradas.

In Río Lagartos there are several tour operators in town who have both private and group tours of the landscapes and the neon pink salt flats. I don’t have a specific tour operator recommendation, but be sure to ask around and see just how much time you spend at the lakes. Some tour operators will whisk you by quickly without much time to enjoy them.

Keep in mind that you may not see as many flamingos as you’d like — peak season is from March to June and climate change has impacted the number of flamingos that make their home here. But the pink lakes? Spectacular.

Important note: Since Las Coloradas became an Instagram hotspot in the last decade, people are no longer allowed to get into the pink lakes or use drones at the lakes. Please respect the rules.

Where to Stay in Río Lagartos

Río Lagartos is a very small town and there isn’t a huge variety of accommodation — at least not yet! All of these properties are located within the center of town.

If you want upscale accommodation, I recommend Hotel Río Lagartos . While not super luxurious, this is one of the best properties in town. It has a nice pool and swim-up bar, as well as views over the water.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Hotel Tabasco Rio . This stylish property offers great value for money and has hot, powerful showers.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend Hotel Mercy Inn’s . This hotel is simple but clean and comfortable with beds that are a step above the usuals in budget Mexican hotels.

Find deals on places to stay in Río Lagartos here .

Day 7: Río Lagartos to Mérida via Izamal

You’ve got two options today. You can spend the morning on another tour in Río Lagartos, or head off as soon as you get up.

There’s a lot to see between Río Lagartos and Mérida, so I recommend figuring out what you want to do the most. The Ek Balam ruins and Cenote Sac-Aua (1 hour, 15 minutes from Río Lagartos) make a great pairing.

If not? Head straight to Izamal (two hours from Río Lagartos, 1 hour 45 minutes from Ek Balam). This town, one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos , is famous for its color — everything is painted bright canary yellow!

While some people say that it was painted yellow for Pope John Paul II’s visit in 1993, the town was actually yellow for quite some time beforehand. It’s a cute town and great for photos.

If you’re low on time, you can axe Izamal if you want to — it’s easy to visit from Mérida.

Finally, it’s time to drive from Izamal to Mérida (1 hour), where you’ll be staying for the next four nights.

Where to Stay in Mérida

My top recommendation in Mérida is to stay in Centro. Mérida is a huge city of many neighborhoods, and some of these neighborhoods are popular with expats, but I recommend Centro because you’ll be able to walk everywhere (or take a $1 Uber), the best restaurants are located here, and it’s filled with lovely colorful buildings and nice parks.

If you want luxury accommodation, I recommend Casa Lecanda Boutique Hotel . Every inch of this beautifully restored villa hotel is drool-worthy, from the outdoor pool area to the elegant, classy rooms. It’s located right on the best restaurant street in Mérida, literally the best location possible, and is close to everything.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Viva Mérida Hotel Boutique . When you see this hotel, you’ll think it’s luxury — but it’s actually great value for money. The hotel is colorful and very Yucatecan in style, and it’s a few blocks from Mérida’s zócalo and the center of town.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend Hotel La Piazzetta . Located on the eastern part of the Centro on Parque de la Mejorada, this hotel is small and simple with comfortable rooms but they bring out cute creative touches wherever they can.

As far as hostels go, Nomadas Ecohostel is a classic.

Find deals on Mérida hotels here .

Days 8, 9, and 10: Mérida

I visited Mérida for the first time in early 2019, and I loved it so much, I came back to live there for two months a year later! Four years since that first trip, it’s still one of my top five favorite places in Mexico (along with Oaxaca , Guanajuato , Mexico City , and Bacalar ).

This city is low-key, welcoming, and cheap. It wasn’t on tourists’ radar for a long time, but it’s becoming more popular over the last five years. It seems like everyone who comes here loves it.

By this point, halfway through your Yucatán road trip, you’ll be looking to relax a bit, and Mérida is the perfect place to do so. Come here to explore the surroundings. I hope you’re ready to eat.

Mérida is a great place to hang out, but more than that, I’m convinced it’s the best base for day trips in all of Mexico. You can go to so many cool places within a short drive of Mérida.

Best Restaurants in Mérida

You can eat extremely well on the cheap in Mérida. Honestly, I’m including a whole restaurants section here because there are so many good ones. I miss the restaurants in Mérida so much!

For breakfast, my #1 recommendation is to get the molletes at SOCO . SOCO is a bakery and everything they make is scrumptious. Molletes are a very simple dish — just bread topped with beans, cheese, and pico de gallo — but SOCO makes them SO much better than anyone else. You can also pick up a loaf of sourdough to take back with you.

For lunch and dinner, my absolute favorite restaurant is Micaela Mar y Leña , which specializes in seafood but also has a lot of good meat dishes. This is a high-end restaurant and if you’re into design, you’ll love the interior. I want my future home to look like Micaela!

My favorite dishes are the smoked oyster dip appetizer (if you’re a New Englander missing chowder, this will scratch your itch), the fabulous grilled shrimp, and the whole octopus, which is a showstopper. The cocktails are sensational.

Another superb restaurant, and the one I visited most frequently while living in Mérida, is Hermana Republica (the location on Avenida Colón, which is central to Mérida). This is a local brewery with excellent beers. My favorite is the Belgian Blonde.

It may just be a casual brewery, but the food is SUPERB — Yucatecan and Mexican specialties that are just phenomenal, from sopa de lima to salbutes de cochinita to tostadas de atún . They also serve the best tortilla chips I’ve ever had.

Those may be my absolute favorites, but I have a few others to recommend. I love Chill-Akil for customizable chilaquiles for breakfast (you can also go to Chilakilez if you like them with crispy pork belly). La Casita del Cheviche is great for ceviche and especially the shrimp aguachile. Merci is where you go for fancy breakfast or lunch.

Mercado 60 is a trendy food hall with a huge variety of food, not just Mexican, and makes for a fun night out. El Catrín can be hit-or-miss, but the atmosphere is fun — go when it’s dark for a mezcal margarita, guacamole, and their light show.

My friend Nathan lived in Mérida for a few years and is the ultimate expert on the best restaurants in Mérida .

And if you love high-end coffee, Manifesto is phenomenal, with the best coffees in town. They roast in-shop. Márago Coffee is also nice and they’ll make coffee in lots of different ways, from Chemex to French Press to Aeropress.

Things to Do in Mérida

Honestly, I spend my time in Mérida hanging out, eating, or doing day trips outside the city. But if you’re looking for things to do within the city, here are a few great options:

Stroll down Paseo Montejo. Many people consider this one of the most beautiful streets in Mexico, lined with mansions, shops, museums, and cafes.

Experience a magical Mayan ancestral ceremony . My sister and I did this when she came to visit! This ceremony is an interesting look into Mayan culture right in Mérida. After receiving the ceremony from a Mayan shaman, you spend time soaking in several herb-scented tubs. It’s unusual, peaceful, and I recommend it.

Go on a design walk. Mérida is becoming one of the big design hubs for Mexico, and you can go on a few different tours to see how people have renovated these homes. The Mérida English Library puts on free walking tours ( see schedule here ).

Check out El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya . This phenomenal museum is one of the most comprehensive guides to Mayan culture, and has lots of interesting displays. It’s on the way out of town.

Visit the cantinas. Two of Mérida’s most fun casual bars are La Negrita and La Fundación Mezcalería , which are owned by the same people and both feature great drinks, live music, and dancing. La Negrita is open until 10 PM, making it an early spot; La Fundación Mezcalería goes until late.

Best Day Trips from Mérida

Where Mérida really shines is its day trips. It’s a huge advantage over other Mexican cities. If you’re eager to explore, take two of those Mérida days and spend them exploring the surrounding region. Here are some of my recommendations:

Celestún. This low-key beach town with powdery white sand just might be the next-next-next Holbox. You can also explore the mangroves. While flamingoes used to dominate the landscape, their population has dwindled in recent years due to climate change. Celestún is a great day trip, and a one-hour drive from Mérida. You can also visit on a tour from Mérida .

Progreso. Want a wilder Mexican beach town? Progreso is a true local experience with blasting music and beers on the beach. Is it pretty? Eh, it’s all right. But is it fun and authentically Mexican getaway? Hell yes.

Progreso is a 40-minute drive from Mérida. If you plan to drink on the beach, consider taking an Uber instead — it should take 40 minutes and cost around $15 each way.

Mayapán ruins and cenotes. The Mayapán ruins are close to Mérida (45 minutes — be sure not to drive to the town of Mayapán, which is a different place and further away) and one of the nice things is that you can actually climb them! Even the giant pyramid.

Mayapán is close to several of the best cenotes in Mexico , including Cenote Noh Mozon and Na Yah Cenote, both near the town of Pixyá. This tour from Mérida includes both Mayapán and the cenotes of Homún.

If you skip Izamal on your drive from Valladolíd to Mérida, some of my friends think that Izamal makes the perfect addition to a Mayapán and cenotes trip.

Uxmal ruins, chocolate museum, and cenotes. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Uxmal ruins are better than Chichén Itzá, in my opinion, and get a fraction of the visitors. This tour from Mérida includes the ruins, the chocolate museum next door, and a cenote visit.

Homún or Cuzama cenotes. There are SO many cenote options in this part of the Yucatán! The towns of Homún and Cuzama are famous for their high concentration of cenotes, both hacienda cenotes and wild cenotes.

If you want a more developed and organized cenote with a restaurant on site, head somewhere like the Santa Barbara Cenotes . But if you want something more rough and wild, there are plenty of motorbike drivers who will take you to some off the beaten path sites. You can also book them on a tour from Mérida .

Campeche. This town is so pretty. Campeche has a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, and it’s prettier and more put together than Mérida’s. At 2 hours and 15 minutes, it’s one of the longer day trips from Mérida, but it can be done. See my full Campeche guide here.

Alternatively, you can spend three nights in Mérida instead of four and spend the fourth night in Campeche.

Day 11: Mérida to Bacalar

Bacalar , a town set on a lagoon in Quintana Roo, is one of my absolute favorite places in all of Mexico. They call Lake Bacalar the Lake of Seven Colors and it genuinely lives up to its name, shimmering in every color from cerulean to aquamarine to ink.

Bacalar is unique and special, and juuuuust starting to get popular. My advice? Go as soon as you can; it may not always be as peaceful as it is now.

Bacalar is just over a four-hour drive from Mérida. If you eat pork, I have the BEST lunch stop for you: it’s a place called Carnes Asadas “Mr. Samy’s” in the town of José Maria Morelos, about halfway between Mérida and Bacalar. Samy and his wonderful family served me and my friends on the way there and back, and the food is SO good.

Most likely you’ll get to Bacalar in the late afternoon. Take it easy after your long drive: get settled in at your hotel and enjoy some drinks and ceviche while overlooking the beautiful lake at sunset.

Where to Stay in Bacalar

If you want luxury accommodation, there are two options depending on the kind of trip you want. I recommend Mia Bacalar Luxury Resort and Spa if you want an isolated luxury spa getaway on the lake. If you want to be central, and able to enjoy the town, Hotel Carolina is one of the nicest properties in Bacalar town with nice rooms and swings right in the lake.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Casa Chukum . This beautiful, environmentally friendly hotel has colorful rooms and a chlorine-free swimming pool, and the complimentary breakfast includes eggs.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend The Yak Lake House Hostel . This classic Bacalar spot has both dorms and private rooms, and it’s a great place to meet new people or just relax at its lakefront location.

Find deals on Bacalar hotels here .

Days 12 and 13: Bacalar

You should spend a minimum of two full days in Bacalar, because one should be spent on a boat tour of the lake, and one should be spent at Los Rapidos. Trust me on this one. They’re both wonderful activities and I wouldn’t want to go to Bacalar without enjoying both to the fullest.

Things to Do in Bacalar

A boat tour is the most popular activity to do in Bacalar, and booking this should be your top priority. You can join a boat tour (this one has an open bar) — or hire your own boat if you want a private trip — and explore the lagoon, from the shallow waters of Pirates’ Canal to the dark cenotes within the lake itself. Many boats turn into a party!

Spend a day at Los Rapidos. Los Rapidos is a riverside beach club about a 20-minute drive outside Bacalar. You can sit by the river, lie in Instagrammable hammocks right in the water, and enjoy food and cocktails — but the best part is jumping in the river and letting it whisk you downstream! Insanely fun.

I highly recommend water shoes for Los Rapidos, as the pavement is sharp and painful to walk on, but the river carries you downstream so you can’t get out in where you left your shoes. Water shoes solve that problem. They’re also good for wearing in Lake Bacalar.

Check out the Cenote Azul. This is a good place to stop on the way to Los Rapidos, as it’s on the same road out of town. This giant open cenote is a nice place to stop for a morning swim.

Go stand-up paddle boarding. If you’ve never tried SUP before, a lake is the perfect place to learn. It’s a great core workout that doesn’t feel like a workout, and a gorgeous way to explore the lake. You can book a sunrise paddleboarding tour here.

Hang out on the docks and at the beach clubs. Throughout Bacalar town there are docks where you can just go and sit and enjoy the atmosphere. Many belong to hotels and guesthouses, but several are open to the public, too.

Read More: Guide to Bacalar, Mexico’s Lake of Seven Colors

Day 14: Bacalar to Cancún Airport

Sad times — it’s time to head home. The drive from Bacalar to Cancún Airport takes about four hours.

If you have an early flight departing from Cancún, it might make more sense to drive up from Bacalar the night before and spend the night in a hotel close to the airport like the Courtyard by Marriott Cancún Airport , which is good value for money and just a four-minute drive from departures.

Is it safe to drive in Mexico?

A lot of people get intimidated about driving in Mexico — but it’s not as scary as you think, especially here in the Yucatán Peninsula. This is a safe and easy region of the country. I wouldn’t hesitate to drive alone in this part of Mexico!

If you’re driving in Mexico for the first time ever, the Yucatán Peninsula is the perfect place to start. Most major roads are in good condition. Yucatán state has exceptionally low crime; Quintana Roo state’s crime is mostly concentrated in the resort towns you’ll be avoiding. The landscape is flat for the most part and you don’t have to deal with treacherous mountain passes.

In other parts of Mexico, like remote areas of Chiapas, locals frequently shut down roads due to protests or ask passing drivers for money; this is very uncommon in the states of Yucatán, Campeche, and Quintana Roo.

If you’re looking to get good value for money, I recommend comparing car rental rates at RentalCars.com . Keep in mind that the cheapest rates are often for manual transmissions — if you need an automatic car, specify that when you book so there are no surprises.

Obviously, you’ll need a license to drive in Mexico. Mexico recognizes English language licenses, regardless of country. If you don’t have an English or Spanish language license, you may want to bring an international driving permit (which is essentially a translation of your license that you can get in your home country).

Mexicans drive on the right side of the road.

If you’re nervous, you may want to do all your driving during the day. I planned out this Mexico road trip itinerary so that you could do all of your driving during the day if possible. The longest driving days are about four hours. A lot of people feel more comfortable driving during the day, when more people are out and the light is better.

Speed bumps are a continuous annoyance while driving in Mexico. They are everywhere — in the middle of towns, on smaller roads, on busy roads, and sometimes even on the highway. While sometimes they’re painted yellow and have signs, sometimes they appear out of nowhere and are hard to spot. Keep an eye on the road continuously.

There are lots of toll roads ( cuota roads) in Mexico, and they add up. Still, I recommend taking toll roads when you can, as they tend to be in far better condition with fewer potholes and speed bumps. Keep money on you — both bills and change — to pay these tolls. You may have to pay as much as 200 pesos ($10). Trust me, it’s better than the regular roads.

There are checkpoints throughout the Yucatán Peninsula, especially when crossing state lines. Sometimes they will wave you straight through; sometimes they will ask you where you’re going. One time, when driving into the town of Hecelchakán in Campeche, a local cop asked me why we were heading there. “Cochinita,” we replied — we were there for the famous slow-roasted pork. He grinned and waved us in.

Gas stations are easy to find throughout the Yucatán Peninsula. I’m a fairly cautious person and tend to refill when I get down to half a tank; you won’t need to worry about this, as there are plenty of stations. Gas stations in Mexico are full-service — the attendant pumps your gas for you. Be sure to give him a small tip (10-20 pesos is fine).

You should keep in mind that many rural areas of Mexico have no phone signal, and that includes along the highways. Much of the time you need to get to a town before you get phone signal.

Finally — Mexico is not nearly as dangerous as the American media would have you believe. Just like the US, there are very safe areas and not-so-safe areas. Much of the drug violence is concentrated in pockets of the north. The Yucatán Peninsula is a very safe area of Mexico — in fact, Yucatán State and Mérida are frequently cited as the safest state and city in Mexico.

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Mexico: Is it Safe?

Alternative Yucatan Road Trip Itineraries

Want a slightly different two week Mexico itinerary? No problem! You can customize this Yucatán itinerary to your needs.

Would you rather take public transport than drive? You can do that!

Would you rather change accommodation less often and stay longer in fewer places? Indeed you can.

Do you only have 10 days or a week? We can absolutely work with that.

Do you have more than two weeks to travel? Lucky you. I have suggestions.

Traveling in the Yucatán by Public Transportation

Don’t want to drive? That’s okay! With a few adjustments, you can do this trip by bus. You won’t have the freedom to come and go as you please, and you’ll have to plan ahead for scheduling your time, but for some people, not having to drive makes it worth it.

The buses in this part of Mexico are very safe and comfortable. I’ve taken them many times as a solo female traveler and I wouldn’t hesitate to take them again.

Here is the two-week Mexico itinerary I recommend, using public transportation:

• Day 1: Get a shuttle from Cancún Airport to Chiquilá , then get the ferry to Holbox
• Day 4: Ferry to Chiquilá, bus from Chiquilá to Río Lagartos via Tizimín
• Day 5: Book a day trip to Las Coloradas from Río Lagartos, then bus to Valladolíd later
• Day 6: Colectivo from Valladolíd to Chichén Itzá and back
• Day 7: Bus from Valladolíd to Mérida
• Days 8-10: Mérida and day trips (include Izamal here)
• Day 11: Bus from Mérida to Bacalar
• Day 14: Bus from Bacalar to Cancún Airport

A few notes: You may want to switch up the order of Río Lagartos and Valladolíd. If you’re traveling from Río Lagartos to Mérida, you’ll need to change buses in Tizimín.

You technically can get a bus from Valladolíd to Chichén Itzá to Mérida, but you probably don’t want to drag your luggage around the ruins, so I recommend doing Chichén Itza as a day trip from Valladolíd and catching a bus to Mérida the next day.

While in Mérida, you’ll be better off doing organized day trips that include the transportation.

Here are a few easy and fun day trips from Mérida where you won’t have to drive:

Progreso beach: Head to Progreso by public bus from Mérida (20 pesos, or $1, each way), or take an Uber for about $15 USD each way. The drive is just 40 minutes.

Mayapán ruins and cenotes: The Mayapán ruins are close to several top cenotes. This tour from Mérida includes both Mayapán and some great cenotes nearby.

Homún cenotes: Take a colectivo from Mérida to Homún (1 hour) and upon arrival, hire a motorbike driver to either take you to Santa Barbara Cenotes (resort-like hacienda experience) or hire a driver for the day to take you to several wild cenotes in the area. Alternatively, take a tour to the Santa Barbara Cenotes direct from Mérida.

Another similar option is taking a colectivo to Cuzama, another town close to Homún that has its own collection of cenotes.

Celestún beach and mangroves: I recommend booking a tour for this as the public bus takes 2.5 hours but it’s just an hour’s drive from Mérida. This Celestún tour from Mérida includes time in the biosphere reserve and free time on the white sand beach.

Uxmal ruins, chocolate, and cenotes: This Uxmal tour from Mérida includes a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Uxmal ruins, a trip to the chocolate museum, and a cenote visit.

A Slower Two Week Mexico Itinerary

Do you prefer not changing hotels often, with longer stays in fewer places? I totally get it. It’s the best way to have a relaxing trip. If that’s the case with you, I recommend basing in three places during your two week trip to Mexico: Holbox, Mérida, and Bacalar.

This can be done either as a Yucatan road trip or with public buses (though keep in mind the bringing your luggage to Chichén Itza issue — you may want to go there and back to get your bags before heading to Mérida).

• Day 1: Drive from Cancún Airport to Chiquilá, ferry to Holbox
• Days 2-4: Holbox
• Day 5: Ferry to Chiquilá, drive to Mérida via Valladolíd and Chichén Itzá
• Days 6-9: Mérida
• Day 10: Drive from Mérida to Bacalar
• Days 11-13: Bacalar

If You Have More than Two Weeks

If you have longer than two weeks for your Yucatan road trip itinerary, you can add extra days to any of the previously mentioned destinations. Holbox, Mérida, and Bacalar in particular would be great places to add extra days. Here are some other things you can do.

Spend a night in Campeche . Or maybe two. Campeche is lovely — its old town is smaller, cleaner, prettier, and better put together than Mérida’s. There’s also a nice malecón , or path along the seafront. I wrote about my time in Campeche here.

Spend a night or two in Mahahual. This beachside town on the Costa Maya is on the verge of getting super-popular — the way Tulum was 15 years ago. The time to visit is now, while it’s still a bit low-key, before the major developers arrive.

If you REALLY want to, spend a night or two in Cancún, Playa Del Carmen, or Tulum. I’m not going to stop you. Just go in with measured expectations. They’re popular resort towns. Like I said, there are far better places to visit in the Yucatán Peninsula, and you’ve been to lots of them. (I’ve heard Isla Mujeres is quite nice, though.)

See the Coba ruins. The Coba ruins are about 45 minutes west of Tulum and like the Mayapán ruins, you can climb them! The Gran Cenote makes a good stop on the way back (there are turtles swimming in it!) but know it’s much pricier than the cenotes near Mérida and Valladolíd.

If you have the budget for a night or two in a resort, you’ll probably want to do it around the Riviera Maya. This part of Mexico is not lacking in resorts! Relaxing by the pool with a cocktail in hand can be a nice way to end your two-week Mexico road trip.

10 Days in Mexico Itinerary

If you only have 10 days in Mexico, I would make a few cuts on the places that excite you the least. If if were up to me, I would cut Río Lagartos out of your itinerary, limit Valladolíd to a short drive-by visit, and remove one of the days in Mérida.

Day 4 is going to be a LONG day. I recommend starting early to make the most of it.

• Day 4: Drive from Holbox to Mérida via Valladolíd, Chichén Itzá, possibly a cenote
• Day 5-6: Mérida and day trips
• Day 7: Drive from Mérida to Bacalar
• Days 8-9: Bacalar
• Day 10: Drive from Bacalar to Cancún Airport

One Week in Mexico Itinerary

If you only have one week in Mexico, I would split your time between two destinations: either Holbox and Mérida or Bacalar and Mérida. I know it’s tempting to add in lots of destinations, but trust me on this one.

In 2019 I spent a week in Mexico split between Holbox and Mérida and it was perfect. (And it definitely whet my appetite for more — a year later I came back to live in Mérida for the winter!)

You may want to consider a one-way car rental from Cancún to Mérida. One-way rentals can often be more expensive, but it saves you hours of driving in this case. Once again, RentalCars.com will give you an idea of the pricing.

But a car isn’t necessary for this weeklong trip. You can easily do this itinerary by public transportation on the ADO buses, as I did in 2019. If you go to Holbox, take one of the many shuttles from Cancún Airport to Chiquilá — it’s faster and easier than the bus.

• Day 1: Arrive Cancún, drive to Chiquilá and get the ferry to Holbox (or drive to Bacalar)
• Days 2-3: Holbox (or Bacalar)
• Day 4: Drive from Chiquilá (or Bacalar) to Mérida
• Days 5 and 6: Mérida
• Day 7: Depart Mérida

There is a lot more to see on the drive from Chiquilá to Mérida — Valladolíd, Chichén Itzá, some cool cenotes, Izamal — than the drive from Bacalar to Mérida.

So which place is better, Holbox or Bacalar ? Wow, that’s a tough one! Having spent time in both places recently, I would give the edge to Bacalar. It’s more unique and I think it has a better vibe.

Mexico Travel Tips

When you arrive in Mexico, you’ll fill out a form on the plane and present it at immigration. You’ll be given part of the form back. This needs to be presented when you leave Mexico — do not lose it! If you do lose it, there are places in the airport where you can pay for a new one.

If you want to get a SIM card for your phone when in Mexico, I recommend Telcel. Remember to bring your passport to the store for ID. If you run out of data, you can top it up at an OXXO drug store, which are all over Mexico.

Quintana Roo and Yucatán states are in different time zones. According to this itinerary, you’ll cross these time zones when you go from Holbox to Valladolíd on Day Four and when you go from Mérida to Bacalar on Day Ten. Keep that in mind.

Keep small change for using the bathroom. Many public restrooms charge you to use them. It’s usually 5 pesos (25 cents).

Keep in mind that an “M” on the bathroom means it’s for women! I have made that mistake before! M is for mujeres, or women. Sometimes bathrooms are labeled Mujeres and Hombres , or Damas and Caballeros .

The water is not safe to drink in Mexico. Your accommodation will often provide you with drinking water, and I recommend a LifeStraw  or SteriPen water purifier and  reusable bottle to cut down on your plastic waste. That said, there’s nothing wrong with brushing your teeth with Mexican water.

If you get sick in Mexico, consider visiting a Farmacia Ahorro. I learned this when living in Mérida — several pharmacy chains, including Farmacia Ahorro, have a doctor working in the pharmacy who can examine you! Ask the pharmacist and they’ll give you a ticket for the doctor. Tip the doctor when you’re done (100 pesos, or $5, is fine).

Best Time to Visit Mexico for a Yucatán Road Trip

The absolute best time to visit the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico is during the winter months: from December to March. This is primarily for weather reasons: nice sunny days, it rarely rains and temperatures are at their most pleasant.

This is especially important because Mérida is brutally hot for most of the year. The winter months are when Mérida is at its most pleasant, but even in winter, you’ll occasionally have some days at 95 F (35 C).

Outside of these months, it really heats up in Mérida. Mérida’s hottest month is May, and late April and early June are also brutally hot. It stays hot through November.

The other destinations on this itinerary, like Holbox and Bacalar, aren’t QUITE as hot as Mérida, thanks to their location by the sea, but the heat can still be unpleasant. Plus, so much of this itinerary is dependent on outdoor weather conditions and I know you’d rather not risk being rained out.

Consequently, this winter months are when Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula gets the most tourists, and when places tend to be most expensive. But I encourage you to visit at this time because weather really can make or break your visit.

Plus, visiting Mexico when it’s cold at home is the point! You need a warm weather escape, and Mexico is one of the best possible places you could visit. Your friends are going to be jealous of your photos…

What to Pack for a Mexico Road Trip

The good thing about Mexico is that you can often buy what you need there. Still, you should pack wisely, just in case.

In terms of clothing, you can wear whatever you want in Mexico — just nothing grotesquely revealing, and keep swimwear to the beach. Light fabrics help you breathe. I tend to wear dresses, skirts, and tank tops with sandals, plus some athletic wear for active days. You might want to bring a sweater and jeans for cool nights or bus rides.

(Like my bag in the photo above? I got it at Poshería , my favorite shop in Mérida, right on Paseo Montejo. Such a great, useful souvenir!)

Here are some items that are smart to pack for a trip to Mexico:

Biodegradable sunscreen . Leave your regular sunscreen at home — it can be harmful to delicate areas like cenotes, Lake Bacalar, and the waters surrounding Holbox. Stick to the biodegradable or reef safe brands.

Earplugs . Mexico is loud . Even in small towns. Even in luxury hotels. Even on a Monday night. Earplugs are essential to get a good night’s sleep in Mexico.

LifeStraw  or SteriPen water purifier and  reusable bottle . This lets you drink water safely in Mexico without creating more waste from bottled water.

Pacsafe Travelsafe . Lock up your valuables to something sturdy in your accommodation. I consider my portable safe  the most important thing I pack .

Mosquito repellant . Mosquitos can be incessant in this part of Mexico, especially at sunset.

Travel towel . Cenotes don’t provide towels — you’ll need to bring your own.

Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf . These scarves have a hidden pocket for your passport or cash, and some come in light fabrics perfect for Mexico. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ).

Sports sandals . Sports sandals are ideal for climbing ruins and exploring the outdoors while leaving your feet room to breathe on hot days.

Flip-flops . I wear mine everywhere in Mexico. I can’t wear most flip-flops due to arch issues but I ADORE my  Abeo flip-flops with arch support .

Water shoes . I don’t usually recommend these, but they are extremely useful in Bacalar, especially at Los Rapidos, where you alternate being in the water and walking on painful ground.

GoPro . You are going to want to take photos in the water in this part of Mexico — especially cenotes and at Bacalar.

Travel Insurance for Mexico

One last note — it’s absolutely vital to have travel insurance before traveling to Mexico.  If you get sick or injured on your trip, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home for more care, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin.  I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Mexico.

Travel insurance will help you in your hour of need if you come down with appendicitis in Mérida or trip and break an ankle while climbing the pyramid at Mayapán, and if your flights get canceled due to hurricanes, you can get accommodation and new flights paid for.

As always, be sure to read your policy carefully and make sure it’s a fit for you.  See what World Nomads covers here.

You are going to LOVE your Mexico road trip.

Mexico is one of my absolute favorite places in the world. I love this country fiercely, and I will always come back to it. The more time I spend in Mexico, the more places I keep adding to visit someday!

So many people go to Mexico and see nothing more than beach resorts, when the country has SO much more to offer, especially in the Yucatán Peninsula. I know your trip will be so much better when you focus on areas outside the resorts.

And please don’t forget that you can put your own spin on whatever you want to do. Maybe you’re not a fan of ruins. That’s fine! You don’t have to go to any! And if you don’t like swimming in deep water, know that you don’t have to swim in any if you don’t want to. (Plus, they all provide lifejackets.)

This is your trip. You go do Mexico the way you want to. I’m just here to help you along the way.

Have the best time in Mexico — then come back and tell me all about it!

Planning a Trip to Mexico:

• Solo Female Travel in Mexico: Is it Safe?
• What NOT to Do in Mexico

Places to Visit in the Yucatán and Mexico’s Caribbean Coast:

• Things to Do in Bacalar, Mexico, The Lake of Seven Colors
• Guide to Isla Holbox, Mexico’s Most Magical Island
• 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Places to Visit in Inland Mexico:

• The Absolute Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico
• Best Mexico City Neighborhoods to Stay In
• 35+ Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico
• How to Visit Sumidero Canyon from San Cristobal de las Casas

Places to Visit on Mexico’s Pacific Coast:

• 24 Fabulous Things to Do in Sayulita, Mexico
• Guide to Bucerías, Mexico, an alternative to Puerto Vallarta

Have you been on a Yucatan road trip? Where do you recommend going? Share away!

The Ultimate Yucatan Road Trip – A 2 and 3 Week Yucatan Itinerary

Ever since I saw a photo of a cenote for the first time, I’ve been desperate to travel to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. They just look so beautiful, and I’m a massive water sports and diving enthusiast, so was eager to experience them in real life. My husband and I travelled coast to coast in Mexico for over 2 months – it was a dream trip and I would highly recommend it to anyone. We ended the trip in the Yucatan Peninsula and went on a mission to explore as many cenotes, diving spots and underwater experiences as we possibly could, along with Mayan ruins, beaches and of course, plenty of tacos, in the ultimate Yucatan road trip.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and purchase something I’ve recommended I may earn a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay but helps me to run this site. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

The Yucatan Peninsula is made up of three states; Quintana Roo, Yucatan and Campeche, and this road trip covers all three to some extent over two or three weeks. If you would like to incorporate other parts of the country into your Mexican holiday, check out our 3 week Mexico itinerary , which includes Mexico City and Oaxaca too.

Read our 3 Week Mexico Itinerary

Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula

You may have concerns about driving in Mexico, and we didn’t originally plan to do a road trip at all, having bussed our way all the way from the east coast to Merida. However, driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is quite different from driving in other parts of Mexico and is generally considered safe. Roads are in good condition and most people drive safely and courteously (I’ve experienced much worse in Italy – sorry Enrico!).

Seeing as there are so many beautiful cenotes to explore, having a car gives you so much more freedom than relying on buses and tours, so after some research, we decided to hire the car to travel in Yucatan and I’m so glad we did.

Book a rental car

A few things to know about driving in Mexico:

• It is a legal requirement to have liability insurance. This is not the same as travel insurance and can be purchased from the hire car company. You could end up with a lot of problems if you do not have this.
• If you were to be involved in a crash, you must not move the car. Wait for the police to arrive and you will be provided with an attorney via your insurance who will deal with the legal stuff for you.
• There is a free breakdown service called Ángeles Verdes (Green Angels), they patrol the highways but you can also call them on 078.
• Watch out for topes. These speed bumps are everywhere in the Yucatan Peninsula and they are worse than they look. Make sure you slow down for each one so you don’t end up bashing the front of your hire car!
• I really recommend downloading offline maps on Google Maps – there are lots of one-way roads in the towns and cities and this will help you avoid getting lost or caught in the wrong street!
• We read a few things about scams at petrol stations, particularly around Cancun and Playa Del Carmen. We didn’t experience this, but it’s worth reading this guide to avoiding scams before you go.

Yucatan buses

If you’re not keen on driving, it’s easy to get around the Yucatan by bus. We travelled with most of the Mexican bus operators during our Mexico trip including ADO and Primera Plus, which operate in the Yucatan. You can buy tickets at the bus station or online. I found this article very useful for bus info (and also hilarious). We booked the majority of our tickets through Busbud .

Now onto the fun part! The Yucatan road trip!

3 Week Yucatan  Itinerary

• Day 1 Cancun to Valladolid
• Day 2 Valladolid to Chichen Itza
• Day 3 Chichen Itza to Izamal
• Day 4 Izamal to Merida
• Day 5 Merida
• Day 6 Merida to Campeche
• Day 7 Campeche
• Day 8 Campeche to Bacalar
• Day 9-10 Bacalar
• Day 11 Bacalar to Tulum
• Day 12-13 Tulum
• Day 14 Tulum to Cozumel
• Day 15 Cozumel
• Day 16 Cozumel to Cancun
• Day 17 – 21 Cancun/Holbox/Isla Mujeres

2 Week Yucatan Itinerary Option

It’s possible to condense this Mexico itinerary into 2 weeks by not spending a night in Izamel and stopping for a few hours en route to Merida, then skipping Campeche and travelling straight from Merida to Bacalar, and then missing the days in Holbox and Isla Mujeres at the end.

Cancun – Collect Hire Car

Unless you’re coming from the West of Mexico as we were, it’s likely that you will start your trip in Cancun – which has the largest international airport. From here you can travel in a loop (technically a triangle), ending back in Cancun for your return flight. Depending on where you’re flying from I suggest collecting the hire car and heading straight off on your journey. However, if you’ve had a long-haul flight you may wish to spend a night here to acclimatise.

Book flights to Cancun

Cancun to Valladolid – 161km / 1 hour 45 minutes

Valladolid – 1 night.

Head straight to Valladolid! I loved this little town. It has a beautiful Zocalo (main square) and colourful narrow streets. It’s a really good base for cenote exploration as they are plenty on the outskirts of the town. Most cenotes have a fee to enter, which is usually around $100 pesos. Although we did encounter some as much as $350.

Find accommodation in Valladolid

Cenote Oxman

This was probably my favourite of all the cenotes we visited – the main reason being that it has an awesome   rope swing. It’s a beautiful cenote and if you’re not keen on the swing there are steps to climb down and have a swim. But I highly recommend you try it!

Cenote Suytun

You’re likely to have seen pictures of this cenote on Instagram, as it has an incredible photogenic platform, with a beam of light shooting down from above. It is beautiful, but as with many things that have been shared on social media – it’s popular. You’ll find queues of people waiting to post on the platform which sort of spoilt the whole thing for me. (I obviously still had a photo though!) The water is actually pretty shallow here, so it’s not really the best for swimming, so of all the cenotes we visited I would say this was my least favourite, but if you have time, it’s still worth a visit.

Where to Stay in Valladolid 

Budget – Hotel Casa Rico is a 2-star accommodation with a terrace, shared lounge and swimming pool. Rooms have private bathrooms.  There is free street parking nearby. 

Mid-Range –  4-star Hotel Colonial Zaci has a shared garden, lounge and terrace, located a block from the Zocalo. There is free private parking.

Luxury –  Hotel Mesón del Marqués is set in a Colonial 17-century house next to Francisco Cantón Park in the centre of Valladolid. The 5 star hotel has an à la carte restaurant, outdoor pool and free parking.

Valladolid to Chichen Itza – 53km / 50 minutes

Chichen itza – 1 night.

Although there isn’t much around and in the nearby town (Piste) of Chichen Itza, I still recommend staying the night. We were advised to do this and I’m glad we did. It means you can get up super early and get to the temples before they open – and be the first in. Chichen Itza is one of, if not the most popular tourist attraction in Mexico and it gets busy. Arriving early you can explore some of the temples without other people and really feel the spirituality of the place (and of course get photos without hundreds of people in them!).

Where to Stay in Chichen Itza

Budget – La Casa de las Lunas is a simple accommodation with a pool in nearby Piste (a 4-minute drive to Chichen Itza). There is free parking and restaurants nearby. We stayed here and it was perfect for a short stay.

Mid-Range –  Villa Arqueologicas Chichen Itza is one of the closest hotels to Chichen Itza and is located within the archaeological site. It is surrounded by beautiful forest and with gorgeous outdoor pools and a spa. There is a restaurant and bar on-site and free parking. 

Luxury –  Hacienda Chichen Resort and Yaxkin Spa is an eco-friendly resort located next to Chichen Itza and even has a private entrance into the Mayan city. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant serving organic Mayan Fusion cuisine and free parking.

Find accommodation in Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza to Izamal – 70km / 1 hour 6 minutes

Izamal – 1 night.

If you’re short on time you don’t necessarily need to stay a night in Izamal, however, I do recommend it. It was one of the most relaxed places we stayed and I also had the best Margarita of our entire Mexico trip at our hotel here (reason enough!). Izamal is famous for its beautiful yellow Franciscan monastery, as well as for being an important place of worship for the Mayans. It has beautiful cobblestoned streets and quaint little shops.

Sleep – we stayed at Macan Ché, which has small bungalows set in gardens with a rockpool-styled swimming pool. Make sure you order a Margarita!

Izamal to Merida – 67km / 1 hour

Merida – 2 nights.

I’d read a lot about Merida and was excited to visit. I was expecting a cool bohemian town, and I was a little disappointed when I arrived, to be honest. It’s actually a very busy and large city, and after travelling through some of the lovely towns beforehand, we found it a bit hectic.

Having said that, there is a lot to do and see in and around this city, This is another great base for exploring cenotes. If you do have a car – great – you can explore these on your own. If you don’t, then you can join an organised tour bus that will take you to two or three cenotes for the day.

Cenote Canunchen

This was another favourite of ours, and it also had a rope swing. It was more of a cave-type cenote than the others, making it dark and a bit ethereal. It wasn’t too deep and you could dive down and see the tunnels leading to other cenotes.

Note: Never try and swim through the tunnels – some go on for miles and divers and swimmers have died exploring these. If you want to dive a cenote go with an experienced guide.

Cenote Tres Oches

This one is a deep and narrow open cenote, accessed by a wooden ladder. It was pretty busy when we visited but a lovely spot.

Cenote Bal-Min

A cave cenote filled with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. You can’t swim in this one as there isn’t much water but it’s definitely worth a visit.

Cenote Santa Rosa

This cenote has two platforms to jump off, which we loved. It’s another cave-like cenote and pretty dark inside, but great for a swim.

Merida Bars and Restaurants

Merida has great nightlife and is a good place for enjoying a few tequilas. There are lots of good bars and restaurants. Our favourites were:

• La Chaya Maya   – A Merida institution – there are now two restaurants as this place is so popular. We visited the newer one, situated in a lovely colonial building
• La Negrita Cantina – Great bar with live music
• Pipiripau – Another great bar with a big courtyard
• Mahalat – Cool speakeasy bar with great cocktails

Mexican Cooking Course

While in Merida, Enrico booked us a cooking course for my birthday, and it was great! We visited a local market to buy ingredients and then learnt how to make Yucatan specialities. It’s a good way to learn about the region’s cuisine.

Where to Stay in Merida 

Budget –  Che Nomadas is a great adult-only hostel that has both dorms and private rooms. There is a large pool and they put on lots of activities including cooking classes and yoga. If you’re a solo traveller this is a great place to meet people. It also has free parking. 

Mid-Range –  Hotel Caribe Merida Yucatan is located in the historic centre of Merida. Set in a beautiful 16th-century building with a swimming pool and bar and restaurant. 

Luxury –  Ya’ax Hotel Boutique is a 5-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace and restaurant. À la carte or American breakfast is included. There is free parking nearby.

Find accommodation in Merida

Merida to Campeche – 176km / 2 hours 15 minutes

At this point, you have two options, depending on how much time you have.   You can continue south to Bacalar or head west to Campeche.

Campeche (optional) – 2 Nights

Campeche is a walled city on the coast, with a fascinating history. It has some of the gorgeous colourful houses and cobbled streets that you’ve probably seen photos of. While here, be sure to walk the walls and visit the Maya Architecture Museum, Baluarte de la Soledad, which tells you the history. There’s also a nightly light and sound show on the walls of El Palacio Centro Cultural. 

Where to Stay in Campeche

Budget –  Ambar apartamentos are centrally located, less than 50m from the market. Rooms have air-conditioning, free WiFi and private bathrooms.

Mid-Range –  Castelmar Hotel is located in the historic centre and has an outdoor pool and sundeck. Rooms are spacious with original tile floors, high ceilings with wood beams and cedar furniture.

Luxury – Hacienda Campeche is a 5 star hotel located in a restored 17th-century mansion house. It has a spa and indoor and outdoor pools. There is a bar and outdoor terrace, and breakfast is available. There is free on-site parking.

Find accommodation in Campeche

Campeche to Bacalar – 419km / 5 hours 40 minutes

Bacalar – 2 or 3 nights.

We hadn’t originally planned to visit Bacalar as it is quite far south towards Belize. However, I’m so glad we did. It is gorgeous! The town is situated on Lake Bacalar, known as the Lagoon of Seven Colours, due to the incredible colours of the water.

Cenote Azul

To the south of the town is Cenote Azul. This large open cenote is worth visiting for a quick swim, but for me, it wasn’t as beautiful as the cenotes we saw further north and looks more like a lake. However, it is over 90m deep!

Bacalar Boat Trip

There are lots of boat trips heading out on the lake and we opted for a sailboat. It was one of my favourite days in Mexico. We had a small pink sailboat, and it was just us and our skipper, who took us to different areas of the lake to swim and explore. I highly recommend you do this while in Bacalar.

Where to Stay in Bacalar

Budget –  Zayali Guest House has air conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and kitchenettes. There is a garden, a shared lounge and an outdoor swimming pool. Street parking is free. 

Mid-Range –  Hotel Makaabá Eco-Boutique has an incredible outdoor pool and terrace. Breakfast is included and there is a bar and restaurant on site, as well as free parking and bike hire. 

Luxury – Hotel CasaBakal is a 5-star accommodation with a swimming pool overlooking the lagoon. There is a restaurant on site and breakfast and free parking is included. 

Find accommodation in Bacalar

Bacalar to Tulum – 215km / 2 hours 30 minutes

Tulum – 2 or 3 nights.

I had seen many, many pictures on Instagram of Tulum and was really looking forward to visiting it. Unfortunately, I ended up feeling a bit disappointed. It has a gorgeous beach (although there is a bit of a seaweed problem) and we stayed at a lovely hotel. However, it is so expensive compared to other parts of Mexico, and even to other parts of the Yucatan peninsular and it is quite pretentious; lots of people in designer clothes posing with overpriced cocktails. Having said that, the beach clubs are pretty cool, and at the end of Tulum Beach is Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, which is absolutely worth exploring.

What really made our stay in Tulum, was our accommodation and I would totally go back, just to stay there again.

Where to Stay in Tulum 

We stayed at Olas , right at the very end of the beach and next to the Biosphere Reserve. This was an oasis in Tulum. The beach is much quieter up this end and away from the building works of the town and beach clubs. I feel like this is the Tulum you would have experienced 10 or 20 years ago. It’s an eco-resort, and is completely self-sufficient – run on solar and using rain and groundwater. The breakfast is excellent, made with locally sourced produce and set under palm trees on the sand. If you let them know in advance they also offer dinner. We spent a lot of time relaxing at the beach here.

If you’re looking for something a little cheaper, we also spent a night in the main town of Tulum at Casa Abanico . I loved this accommodation and it had its own kitchen which is great when you’re on a budget. However, it’s a bit of a trek to the beach and the main town of Tulum feels a bit like a construction site. Something to bear in mind! (However, this is pretty much where all the budget accommodation is!).

Find accommodation in Tulum

Diving Tulum

Aside from the beach, a good reason to stay in Tulum is to dive. Unfortunately, we were both unwell and were not fit to dive, however, I’ve heard great things about cenote diving in Yucatan and we were gutted to miss it.

Tulum to Playa Del Carmen/Isla Cozumel – 65km / 54 minutes

Here you have two options, as Cozumel is an island, you need to take a ferry to get there. So you can either take your rental car on the ferry, or you can return your rental car in Playa Del Carmen and take the passenger ferry (and then bus/taxi back to Cancun). We did the latter, although in hindsight the first option is probably easier.

Cozumel – 2 Nights

We visited Cozumel to go diving as it’s considered one of the best diving spots in Yucatan. It’s quite a big island, and the main town feels quite touristy, however, I’ve heard it’s quite different on the other side of the island.

Cozumel Diving

We did two dives with Scuba Life Cozumel , which were fantastic! There were great swim-throughs, colourful corals, an abundance of fish, and turtles! It’s totally worth making the trip over.

Sleep – We stayed at Hotel Mary Carmen , which was a short walk from the ferry and lots of restaurants.

Find accommodation in Cozumel

Playa Del Carmen/Isla Cozumel to Cancun – 68km / 56 minutes

Cancun – 3 nights.

At the end of your Yucatan road trip, if you can afford it, it’s worth spending a few nights in an all-inclusive on the beach in Cancun to really unwind. We stayed at Haven Riviera . You can read my review here .

I’m not usually an all-inclusive hotel person, but it was really nice to switch off for a few days, not think about where to go and just chill on the beach and by the pool, and eat and drink as much as we wanted!

Other destinations to add to your Yucatan itinerary

Isla holbox.

If you have more time on your Yucatan road trip, drive (or take the bus) from Cancun up to Chiquila and take the ferry over to Isla Holbox. We didn’t do this, but I’ve heard it’s a lovely relaxed island and well worth the visit.

Isla Mujeres

Another beautiful island and also a great diving spot. To get there, you can take the Ultramar Ferry from Puerto Juarez which takes about 20 minutes.

It is safe to drive in the Yucatan, as long as you stick to the speed limit and watch out for speed bumps (topes). Make sure you purchase liability insurance when you hire a car. Ángeles Verdes (Green Angels) is a free breakdown service, they patrol the highways and you can also call them on 078.

Three weeks in the Yucatan means you can visit the main towns and archaeological sites as well as enjoy some beach time. You can still fit the main highlights in two weeks.

Hope you enjoyed our Yucatan road trip itinerary – please comment below if you found it useful or if you think we missed anywhere!

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3 week mexico itinerary, the best tacos in mexico city, haven riviera cancun – review.

Thank you so much for all of this great information! It is very helpful.

You’re welcome!

how much did it cost roughly for the accommodation and travelling etc in yucatan itself. Thanks 🙂

It really depends where you stay and how much you want to spend. There are lots of options at different price points. We budgeted around $200 AUD per night for accommodation but often spent more or less depending on the place and what we wanted. Have a lovely trip!

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Yucatan Round Trip

Mayan Ruins | Colonial Cities | Cenotes | Beaches

Yucatan Round Trip: A Private Tour through Yucatan

What is a must to see on a Yucatan round trip: In this article we show you the  highlights of the Yucatan Peninsula  – along the road from Cancun inland, towards Campeche, Bacalar and back.

Lonely Planet

Travel Guide Mexico

Language Guide Mexico

Spanish Word by Word

The history of the Maya: Between mystery and knowledge – an introduction .

-> The best Cozumel Excursions

The Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula: Village during Yucatan Round Trip

About 780,000 people on the Yucatan Peninsula still speak the Mayan language. In the south, the Yucatan Peninsula borders Belize and Guatemala, also countries with an  interesting Mayan culture .

A Yucatan round trip is particularly made for visitors who want to delve deeper into the  Mayan heritage . There are some interesting things to do near the  Riviera Maya . However, the area around Playa del Carmen is heavily developed.

Private Excursion Chichen Itza

Visit Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid

The history of the Maya

A captivating guide to Mayan civilization, culture, and mythology

Ideas for a Round Trip in Yucatan

Map Yucatan Round Trip

Did you discover anything else? We look forward to your comments and further suggestions for a Yucatan round trip.

On our suggestions for overnight stays, we wrote a possible number of nights behind the respective destinations. Of course, these are only recommendations. This might be also of interest: -> The best Tequila from Mexico

Arrival at Cancun Airport (1 night nearby)

Hotel recommendation: Really nice hotel close to the airport right on the beach: City Express Plus Cancun Aeropuerto

A bit outside between Puerto Morelos in the south and Cancun in the north it takes about 30 minutes to an hour from Cancun to the airport, depending on the traffic.

We are happy to pick up our guests from the airport and book a hotel (depending on your arrival time). If you want to go on the Yucatan round trip on your own, you will find many car rental companies directly at Cancun Airport.

The 10 best Hotels in Cancun

Our Top-Recommendations in Cancun

Our recommendation

City Express Plus Cancun Airport

Yucatan Round Trip: Colonial City Valladolid (1-2 nights)

Yucatan Round Trip: Valladolid

Hotel 41 in Valladolid

Hotel Rinconada del Convento

The Mayan Ruins Chichen Itza

Yucatan Round Trip: Chichen Itza

Enjoy the majestic  pyramid of the Mayan god Kukulkan  before the the masses from the hotels arrive. Allow a good two to three hours for the  archaeological site of Chichen Itza .

Find here our gratis travel guide to Chichen Itza 

The Mayan Ruins Ek Balam

Yucatan Round Trip: Ek Balam

Yucatan Round Trip: Izamal (1 Night)

Hotel recommendation: In the center of Izamal downtows with a pool and fantastic prices: Hotel Rinconada del Convento

Yucatan Round Trip: Izamal

Izamal means “ place of the iguanas ” in the Maya language and the historical meaning goes deep into the time of the ancient Maya.

There are  various Mayan ruins  in the city. These pyramids can be climbed during a tour with a horse-drawn carriage. Entry to the pyramids is free. The most important Mayan structure is, however, buried under the imposing  Franciscan monastery .

Yucatan Round Trip: Merida (1-2 Nights)

Hotel recommendation: Close to the cathedral of Merida, with a pool in an old colonial building :  Hotel Boutique de la Mision De Fray Diego 

Yucatan Round Trip: Merida

The  Mayan World Museum  explains the history of the Maya in this area and shows replicas of important Mayan sites on the Yucatan Peninsula. In the vicinity of Merida there are other historically significant Mayan sites such as  Uxmal or Dzibichaltun .

Hotel Boutique de la Mision de Fray Diego

Our Recommendation

Hotel Gama Campeche Malecon

Yucatan Round Trip: Celestun

The boat tour takes about 2 hours. You will visit the flamingo hatcheries and later the mangrove swamps, where you may spot a crocodile. This might be also of interest: -> The best Tequila from Mexico

The Mayan Ruins Dzibichaltun

Yucatan Round Trip: Dzibichaltun Cenote

The Mayan Ruins Uxmal

Yucatan Round Trip: Uxmal

Hacienda Yaxcopoil

Yucatan round trip: campeche (1-2 nights).

Hotel recommendation: On the promenade of Campeche, just around the corner of the historic city center, with an outdoor pool: Hotel Gama Campeche Malecon  

Round Trip through Yucatan: Campeche

Yucatan Round Trip: Xpujil (1 night)

Hotel recommendation: Only ten minutes from Xpujil with pool: Chicanna Ecovillage Resort

Xpujil Round Trip Yucatan

The Mayan Ruins Calakmul

Calakmul Round Trip Yucatan

The Mayan Ruins Becan

Becan: Round Trup Yucatan

Yucatan Round Trip: Bacalar (1-2 nights)

Hotel recommendation: Bed and Breakfast next to the lagoon: Villa Marilu B&B 

Yucatan Round Trip: Bacalar

The Bacalar Lagoon

Yucatan Halbinsel Rundreise: Lagune Bacalar

The Mayan Ruins Kohunlich

Yucatan Halbinsel Rundreise: Kohunlich

The way through the jungle is a good 6 kilometers / 5 miles before arriving at the parking lot at the Kohunlich Ruins. These ruins are worth a visit, the special attraction is the Temple of the Masks, human-faces with divine elements. The Mayan Ruins Dzibanche You can also pass the  archaeological site Dzibanche  on your way from Xpujil to Bacalar. From the main road, it takes about 30 minutes to the hinterland before you reach Dzibanche.

The Mayan Ruins Chacchoben

Yucatan Round Trip: Chacchoben

Yucatan Round Trip: Tulum (1-2 nights)

Hotel recommendation: In the Tulum Beach zone: Hotel Amansala

Tulum Rundreise Yucatan

The Mayan Ruins Tulum

Tulum: Yucatan Round Trip

The Mayan Ruins Coba

Yucatan Peninsula: Coba

The Mayan Ruins Muyil

Yucatan Round Trip: Muyil

The National Park Sian Kaan

Sian Kaan Round Trip Yucatan Peninsula

Yucatan Round Trip: The Islands of the Riviera Maya (1-4 nights)

Yucatan Round Trip: The Islands

Each of the islands has its own character. While the island of Holbox is more suitable for younger audiences and backpackers, the women’s island (Isla Mujeres) suits to a grown-up audience.

Your private Yucatan Round Trip – travel with your personal guide

Our description on this page gives a rough overview of what your Yucatan tour could look like. After consultation with you, we will assemble your very personal offer.

Yucatan Round Trip as self-driving tour – good to know

• On a Ycatan round trip, you can discover the real Mexico
• Use the service of an experienced and certified guide
• Ideas for your Yucatan round trip from Cancun
• What to know if you would like to go by yourself

AFFILIATE LINKS

Hello, my name is Birgit and I write about interesting topics around vacations in Mexico and traveling on the Yucatan peninsula. I would love to hear from you and I am always happy to receive ideas and recommendations for new articles.

Enjoy reading!!!

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Ultimate One Week Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Written By: Shelley Marmor

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Ready to start planning your Yucatan itinerary? If you’re looking for slightly off-the-beaten-path towns and sites to visit in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, you’re in the right place. This seven-day Yucatan road trip itinerary will help you plan a unique Yucatan Peninsula trip.

The best thing about the Yucatan, located in southeastern Mexico, is that there’s no shortage of amazing places to visit, both on land and under the water. From Mayan ruins you can climb, to swimmable cenotes (natural jungle pools), there’s so much to do here that you can’t do anywhere else on Earth.

Yucatan Road Trip – All You Need to Know

This itinerary starts with all the things you need to know for a Yucatan road trip, like renting a car vs taking the bus, and how to get to the Yucatan Peninsula. After that, you’ll discover all the fun places and unique sites, which will make for an unforgettable Yucatan trip.

Where is the Yucatan Peninsula located?

The Yucatan Peninsula is located in the southeast tip of Mexico. As a peninsula, it does have water on three sides; to the south and east, there’s the bright blue Caribbean Sea, and to the north, you have the Gulf of Mexico.

There are three Mexican states that make up the Yucatan Peninsula: 1) Quintana Roo state, home to all the top destinations, like Cancun , Riviera Maya, and T ulum ) Yucatan state, where you’ll find colorful, colonial cities like Mérida and Valladolid, and 3) Campeche state, an off the beaten path destination. Read more: The Best Tulum All Inclusive Resorts

What’s the best time to go to Yucatan?

The best months to visit Yucatan are from November to March. During these months, you get nice cool weather and low humidity. The Yucatan Peninsula has a tropical climate, so expect year-round high temperatures during the day and night, though the winter and spring seasons are much more pleasant than summer and fall.

Surrounded by water on three sides, Yucatan is susceptible to hurricanes, tropical storms and very heavy rains during the June to October rainy season. The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30, though Yucatan weather is usually nice by the end of October.

Do I need a visa to go to Mexico?

United States, Canadian, and more European passport holders do not need a travel visa for Mexico — which is great news because if you wanted to, you can even do this Yucatan itinerary on a whim! For a list of all the countries that do require a Mexico travel visa, visit this site .

When you arrive in Mexico and go through the Customs and Immigration line, an agent will give you your 180 day (6 month) FMM tourist card. You must keep this small piece of paper on you at all times, as proof you’re in the county legally. When you leave Mexico, you must return your FMM to an Immigration officer — so don’t lose it.

Traveling to the Yucatan Peninsula

For most travelers, the easiest way to get to the Yucatan Peninsula is to fly to Cancun International Airport (code: CUN). There are smaller, regional Yucatan airports scattered throughout the area (the second largest is Merida International Airport), but it’s generally most convenient to fly to Cancun.

Yucatan Car Rentals

Cancun Airport is also the best place to get a rental car in the peninsula because it has such a large selection. For the majority of travelers, it’s safe to drive in Yucatan, with the obvious caveat that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with its driving laws and local customs. Check car rental comparisons in the Yucatan at RentalCars.com

Driving in Mexico isn’t too dissimilar from the U.S. or Canada, but you might want to ask the agent at your cart rental for some pointers. But rest assured — Yucatan road trips are generally considered quite safe, and a very popular way to cover a lot of ground in a little time.

Prices for Mexico car rentals can vary, but you can usually rent a car for about $35 USD per day, with full coverage insurance. You do legally need Mexican insurance to drive in Mexico, and neither U.S. nor Canadian policies are valid outside of the country’s border.

Yucatan Buses

If you don’t want to rent a car, you can still do a Yucatan road trip, but know buses will eat into your travel time. Mexico has a great bus system, and you can actually travel the entire country via the ADO bus , Mexico’s largest bus company.

ADO operated a fleet of luxury-class buses, complete with comfy recliner seats, air conditioning, electrical outlets at all the seats, and restrooms on board. Ticket prices will depend on your trip route, but are usually quite reasonable at about $15 USD for a two-hour trip.

Though this itinerary talks about how to drive between places via rental car, you can also do this trip with a combination of the ADO bus and taxis. (Note: There’s no Uber in Yucatan). Now that you know all the basic travel info, let’s get to this seven-day Yucatan Peninsula!

Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary: Day 1 and 2

After arriving in Cancun, get your rental car and then hit the road. While Cancun is a great place to visit, it’s more of a place to go and enjoy the beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and sites, and somewhere you’d want to dedicate a whole trip to.

From Cancun, head about two hours northwest to Chiquila, Mexico, a small pueblo where you’ll catch the 30-minute ferry to Isla Holbox Island. You’ll have to leave the car in a paid parking lot for the next two days, as there’s no cars allowed on the island. These are secure lots, and cost about $100 MXN pesos ($5 USD) per day.

Holbox Island, Mexico

Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is a small, laid-back island with no street lights and beaches as gorgeous as Cancun — minus the crowds. Once a sleepy fishing village, Holbox Island has gained notoriety in the last decade, but managed to retain its small-town charm. 

There’s so much to do and see in Holbox, but if you’re visiting from May 15 to September 17, take the tour to swim with the whale sharks . Whale sharks are the largest fish in the sea, averaging 30 feet in length (9 m). Each year, they hang out in the warm waters of the coast for a few months, and you can take a tour to swim with them.

Whale shark tours cost about $125 USD, and each boat has a capacity of just 10 people per tour, which is a regulation the Mexican government has in place. If you want to do this, make sure to book your tour with a local operator as soon as you arrive at Holbox.

Yum Balam is a giant nature preserve on the northern end of Holbox Island and is only accessible by boat via a tour. On the Yum Balam tours, you’ll pass by several islands in the Holbox Island chain, and Yalahau Cenote, which has amazing swimming, snorkeling, and birdwatching.

You can also rent a kayak or SUP paddleboard and check out Holbox from the water. Enjoy a tranquil voyage through the protected mangroves in Holbox and be sure to stop by Isla Pasion (Passion Island) and Isla Pajaros (Bird Island).

These two islands are home to countless species of birds, including a large flock of flamingos that live in Holbox for much of the year. Some visitors will want to go out at sunrise on a SUP paddleboard tour to the islands, though you’ll want to do this with a tour guide who knows the area.

The breeze on Holbox Island makes it one of the best places for windsurfing and kiteboarding in all of Mexico. During the winter months, when the north winds blow in, the Caribbean Sea is full of windsurfers and kiteboarders, and if you want to learn how, there are kiteboarding schools in Holbox.

When night falls, make your way to Punta Coco Beach to see the bioluminescent plankton as it sparkles on the water’s surface. You can also get in the water, and as billions of microscopic phytoplankton land on your body, you’ll start to twinkle as well. (Note: You can only see the bioluminescence during the New Moon.)

Yucatan Itinerary: Days 3 and 4

Today you’ll say adios to Holbox, and take the ferry ride back to Chiquila. Retrieve your rental car from the parking lot and make the 2.5-hour drive southwest to the Valladolid pueblo magico (magic town), located in Yucatan state.

Never heard of a Mexico pueblo magico? This prestigious designation has been awarded to about 140 pueblos, or small towns in Mexico. All the towns have unique sites and noteworthy characteristics, as well as a strong tourism infrastructure with great hotels and nice restaurants. 

Valladolid, Mexico

Valladolid is one of just four pueblos magicos in Yucatan state. It is among the most beautiful colonial towns in Mexico, and one of the safest. Enjoy some time strolling the streets of this colorful town, then have a nice meal at La Casona Valladolid.

For the next two nights, you’ll want to select a hotel in Centro (Downtown Valladolid), as this area has nice, reasonably-priced accommodations. Valladolid is very walkable, and not very big, so you can even park your car for the day and get around to see the sites on foot.

While in Valladolid, don’t miss the Convent of San Bernardino of Siena, a 16th Century Franciscan convent, and San Gervasio Cathedral (AKA Valladolid Cathedral) in the Zocalo (Main Square). For art lovers, head to Casa de los Venados to see the largest Mexican folk art collection in the country.

Chichen Itza & Cenote Ik-Kil

As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins is on the bucket list of nearly every Mexico traveler. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located about 45 minutes by car from Downtown Valladolid, so head there in the morning after a nice breakfast. Check out 7 Wonders of the World – the New, The Natural, and the Ancient

This Chichen Itza/Valladolid Tour takes you to both historic sites and to the Saamal cenote where you can swim in the azure waters. It includes a buffet lunch and a guided walking tour through Valladolid and Chichen Itza.

The Chichen Itza site is quite large, so dress in your most comfy clothes and sneakers, and don’t forget to bring your water bottle, sunscreen, and a wide-brim hat. This part is optional, but with such an important site, you’ll want to also bring enough cash to pay for a knowledgeable guide to take you around.

Guides cost about $1,000 MXN pesos ($50 USD), and will usually take 6-8 people per group. However, with such a historic place, it’s worth the money to learn every little detail you can about Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins — and there is a lot to know!

After a long and likely sweaty day touring the ruins, head to the Cenote Ik-Kil for a refreshing swim. This is one of the most beautiful and most popular cenotes in the area and is located only about 10 minutes by car from Chichen Itza.

If you prefer a more uncrowded cenote, head back to Downtown Valladolid and visit Cenote Zaci. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk from downtown, and you can swim in Cenote Zaci for free as long as you order a meal from their onsite restaurant. If not, it’s just $30 MXN pesos ($2 USD).

What is a cenote? In case you weren’t sure, cenotes (pronounced sen-no-tays) are sinkholes that contain freshwater from underground rivers. There are about 6,000 in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, which is the largest concentration of cenotes found anywhere on Earth.  Read more Cenotes in Photos – Discover Mexico’s Extraordinary Underground Caves

Day 4: Ek-Balam Ruins and Cenote Xcanche

Some years back, the Mexican government outlawed climbing the Chichen Itza pyramids, though you can still climb them at other Mayan Ruins in the area. If you want to climb some Mayan Ruins on your trip, head to Ek-Balam, which is also much less touristy than Chichen Itza.

Located minutes by car from the Ek-Balam Ruins, Cenote Xcanche is the ideal place to swim and cool down climbing the pyramids and exploring the ancient ruins. You can do rappelling at this cenote, ride the zipline or use a Tarzan-style rope swing to enter the cenote (or just walk in).

Since no Yucatan itinerary is complete without visiting a lot of cenotes, there are some more in this general Valladolid area. These include Cenote San Lorenz Oxman, Cenote Suytun, Cenote Dzitnup, Cenote Samula, Cenote Xkeken, and Cenote Zaci in Downtown Valladolid. Check out another amazing cenote in the Yucatan: Rio Secreto Cenote – Mexico’s Magical Underground Caves

Yucatan Itinerary: Day 5 and 6

On your fifth day, bid farewell to Valladolid and drive four hours south to Bacalar, another pueblo magico (magic town). The small town of Bacalar is best known for Laguna Bacalar, the second-largest freshwater lake in Mexico. You may also like: 15 Fun Facts About Mexico

Bacalar, Mexico

Bacalar Lake is known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors” because you can see up to seven distinct shades of blue in the water. Thanks to its bright blue-colored water, Bacalar is also sometimes called “The Maldives of Mexico,” another destination famous for its blue waters.

Whatever you call it, Laguna Bacalar is absolutely stunning, with some of the most beautiful water in Mexico. The town of Bacalar itself provides a nice mix of relaxation, unspoiled nature, water activities, and great restaurants.

You can stay in Downtown Bacalar, or right on the lake. If you can, opt for a place on the lake so you can just walk outside your room and jump right in. Downtown just isn’t as nice, though you can save some money by staying there.

Day 5: Bacalar Boat Tour & Cenote Azul

The best thing to do in Bacalar is to take a boat tour around the lake. It is a pretty massive lake, at about 25-miles (42 m) from end to end, so the best way to see as much of it as possible is by boat. You can also rent a kayak or SUP paddleboard to go around the lake, but you obviously won’t see as much of it.

There’s a standard Bacalar boat tour that will take you to all the coolest parts of the lake, like the Canal de Piratas (Pirate’s Channel). This is a shipwreck that you can jump off of into the lake. There’s also the Isla de los Pajaros (Bird Island) and some cenotes within the lake, including Cenote Esmerelda.

The most popular cenote in Bacalar is located just outside of the lake, Cenote Azul (Blue Cenote). You will have to drive, take a taxi or walk to it, but don’t miss the chance to swim in one of the deepest cenotes in the Yucatan; Cenote Azul is at about 275-feet-deep (84 m).

Day 6: Sunrise SUP & Los Rápidos

If you’re a morning person, Bacalar is well-known for its amazing sunrises, which you can see from the lake. Head out early for a SUP paddleboard yoga class, or simply enjoy a quiet paddleboard session, as the early risers usually have the whole lake to themselves.

Los Rapidos, which means The Rapids, is one of the best balnearios in Bacalar. Balnearios are beach clubs in Mexico, and though Bacalar is a lagoon, not a beach, they still use the word balneario. There are a few beach clubs around the lake, but Los Rapidos is one that shouldn’t be missed.

As the name Los Rapidos states, there are rapids here for you to swim and play in. You can also rent a kayak at Los Rapidos and explore even more of Laguna Bacalar. There are a restaurant, bathrooms, water hammocks, and swings here as well, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours.

Yucatan Itinerary: Day 7

On the seventh and final day, it’s (sadly) time to head back to Cancun so you can return the rental car and catch a flight home. The Bacalar to Cancun drive is about 4.5 hours in normal traffic, so plan accordingly. Some people will even want to book a hotel in Cancun for one night, especially if you’re on an early morning flight.

Want to squeeze a few more sites on the drive to Cancun? There are a few off-the-beaten-path Mayan Ruins you can stop at on the way. These include Muyil Ruins and Chacchoben Ruins, both located just off Chetumal-Cancun Highway 307, the road you take to Cancun.

Which things on this Yucatan itinerary caught your eye? We’d love to hear from you, so please let us know in the comments down below.

Read more about travel to the Yucatan and Mexico

• 23 Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
• Best Things to do in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
• 21 Amazing Things to do in Cancun
• Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Hotels and Areas For Every Budget
• 25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico
• 10 Best Things to do in Mexico City for an Epic Trip
• 19 Best Things to do in La Paz, Mexico

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Shelley Marmor

Shelley is a former Miami travel magazine editor who ditched the office for the world! After traveling solo to half the states in Mexico, she settled down in Merida, Mexico. Shelley helps travelers plan their ultimate Mexico trip through her TravelMexicoSolo and Travel To Merida blogs.

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2 thoughts on “Ultimate One Week Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary”

Yucatan Peninsula always attracts mankind from different parts of the Country with amazing landscapes and scenery. very helpful article

Hi Dave and Deb,

I traveled around the Yucatan Peninsula last year for about 3 weeks and really enjoyed it. Especially the Cenotes are just so breathtaking. Reading this post, makes me want to go back to Mexico, have some tacos al pastor and explore even more.

Have a good day,

See Mexico's top Mayan sites on the ultimate Yucatán road trip

Feb 28, 2020 • 7 min read

There are endless reasons to explore Mexico's majestic Yucatán – haciendas, pink salt lagoons, flocks of flamingos, white-sand beaches, and cenotes. But, history buffs are drawn to the area for the ancient cultural history in the region's countless Maya archaeological sites. Here’s how to take an epic week-long road trip to explore the Yucatán Maya archaeological sites.

Where to start: Arrive in the capital city of  Mérida  and stay the night there or book a hotel off the Ruta Puuc such as the FlyCatcher Inn Boutique Hotel or the gorgeous Hacienda Temozón  so you can get an early start the next day.

Day 1: Ruta Puuc, part 1

From Mérida, start your adventure early along the hilly Ruta Puuc, a meandering road along which are the architectural remains of the Puuc Maya civilization. Make a quick stop at Oxkintok at 8am when the site opens. The site is quite large and not as well restored as others but will give you a better understanding of the layout of a pre-Columbian Maya town. Archaeologists believe Oxkintok was inhabited from 300 BCE to 1500 CE.

Don't linger too long at Oxkintok because you'll want to beat the crowds to one of the most beautiful Maya sites – Uxmal. The massive site can easily take a full day to explore. Tour buses tend to arrive by 10 AM. Uxmal is in incredible condition and boasts some of the best-preserved ornate reliefs that display stories of Maya folklore along the Governor’s Building . The ceremonial Casa del Adevino or Temple of the Magician is 115ft tall and features unusual curved corners. Learn about the Mayan's celestial beliefs by visiting the Planetario Maya at Uxmal.

Where to stay: Spend the night at The Pickled Onion Where to eat:   The restaurant at the Pickled Onion is the perfect place to taste typical Yucatecan dishes including Poc Chuc and Pollo Pibil. 

Day 2: Ruta Puuc, part 2

It's a busy day so get an early start and head to Kabah , which means powerful hand. Climb up the stairs of the Palace of Masks for an incredible vista of the grounds including the sacrificial altar. On the way up you’ll notice gigantic faces – these depict Chaac, the Maya rain god.  

Your next stop will be Sayil . Be amazed by the three-tiered Palace building that’s an astonishing 280ft long. There are other buildings to see at the site including stelaes with detailed reliefs and various structures that have been reclaimed by the forest – following the dirt paths through the trees feels like a real adventure at Sayil compared to the infrastructure of other sites.

Just down the road is Xlapak which isn’t as well kept as the other sites and is significantly smaller but it’s worth a quick visit to see the detailed columns and latticework on the Palace. The last stop of the Ruta Puuc is Labná where you’ll be able to walk through an ancient archway with Puuc reliefs. Be sure to arrive before 5pm when the site closes.

Where to stay: Head back to Mérida for the night and stay at Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel with its famous pink pool or indulge in a night at La Hacienda Xcanatun .

Read more:   Feel the beat on the streets of Mérida

Day 3: Dzibilchaltún

The first two days on the Ruta Puuc are a bit rigorous so take it easy on the third day of your trip. Spend a leisurely morning walking around Merida. In the late afternoon, grab your swimsuit and head just north to Dzibilchaltún . 

The Maya city was occupied for nearly 3000 years and there are over 8400 structures here but only a few have been excavated and can be seen during your visit. The most popular time to visit is during the equinoxes when the sun rises and aligns with the main door of the Temple of the Seven Dolls casting a spooky glow. 

Don’t worry about working up a sweat as you walk around the grounds – you can take a dip at the on-site cenote or visit the air-conditioned Museo del Pueblo Maya to read more about the structures at Dzibilchaltún.

Where to stay:   Hotel Reef Yucatán  in Progreso Where to eat:  Have dinner at a restaurant on the sand on Progreso Beach

Day 4: Xcambo and Mayapán

Wake up and enjoy the beach before driving towards Xcambo . On the way, you’ll pass by the pink salt lakes of Laguna Rosada and flocks of flying flamingos. 

Xcambo is small but mighty with many massive structures in great condition. Climb up all of the structures for various vistas of the surroundings – if you’re tired then save your energy to get to the top of the Pyramid of the Cross. 

Hop back in the car for an hour and a half drive south to Mayapán . The site was the center of the Maya civilization from 1200 to 1440 CE. There are many structures to see in the cluster including impressive masks of Chaac and the Round Temple. Climb to the top of the Kukulcán Castle for an amazing view of the surrounding landscape.

Where to stay:   Hacienda Sac Chich so that you’re well prepared to head off early the next morning

Day 5: Aké and Izamal

Start your day early by reaching the archaeological site of Aké by 8am. The site is small and you won’t need a lot of time to explore. Aké means place of reeds in Yucatec Maya . Climb to the top of the Palace to walk through rows and rows of columns atop the Palace – the steps are long and short rather than steep and shallow unlike other structures in the area. Next door is an active hacienda where henequen (a fiber made from the agave plant) is still processed. 

In the afternoon head to  Izamal and enjoy the yellow architecture of the city and some of the restored pyramids around the town. There were once a dozen temples here as Izamal was a central place of worship for the major Maya god Itzamná, and the sun god, Kinich-Kakmó. The best-preserved temple is in honor of the sun god and can be climbed. At about 112ft tall, it’s the 3rd tallest pyramid in the Yucatán. 

Where to stay:   Mayaland and watch the light show at Chichén Itzá Where to eat:  Have lunch at Kinich Restaurant and order the papadzules which are rolled tortillas typically stuffed with egg and doused in a divine roasted pumpkin-seed sauce. 

Day 6: Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is the second largest archaeological site, a Unesco World Heritage Site, and one of the new 7 Wonders of the World. Crowds flock here by 10am. It’s worthwhile to get an early ticket and hire a guide who can explain all of the various buildings around the site, explain the history of the area, sacrificial ceremonies at the cenote, and how The Castle pyramid is actually a calendar. When you arrive, ask other tourists if they want to share the price of a guide.

During the equinoxes, the sun illuminates the side of the staircase of The Castle pyramid which makes it appear like a snake is descending the building. Due to the phenomena, this is the most popular time of year to visit.

Where to stay: Spend the night in Valladolid at Mesón del Marqués .

Day 7: Ek’ Balam

The last stop is Ek’ Balam which is dedicated to the Jaguar, a sacred Maya symbol. The showstopper here is the 104ft-tall pyramid which can be climbed. The steps are narrow so take your time as you ascend. From the top, you can see Chichen Itzá on a clear day.

Ending your trip

From Ek' Balam you can drive the two hours back to Merida or head to the coast to spend some time on the Riviera Maya . Playa del Carmen is a two and a half hour drive. 

Keep in mind

Most of the archaeological sites in the Yucatán have strict rules against the usage of drones and tripods without prior permission. If you bring them you’ll likely have to pay to store them in a locker as it’s better not to leave anything valuable in your car. They can cause damage to the sacred sites which is why they’re not permitted.

Drink plenty of water as many of the archaeological sites are sprawling so you’ll be walking quite a lot. The larger sites will have small cafes with refreshments but bring your own reusable bottle in order to avoid plastic waste. Be generous when applying mineral sunblock, wear comfortable walking shoes, and a hat. 

You may also like: Skip Chichen Itza and head to this remote Yucatán site instead Alternative Yucatán adventures away from the crowds Secret swims: the cenotes of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula

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YUCATAN ROAD TRIP, THE ULTIMATE 2-WEEK ITINERARY

Visiting Mexico for the first time? The Yucatan Peninsula is the ideal region to get a first taste of the country. From historical Mayan sites to colorful villages, stunning beaches, and impressive cenotes, there is so much beauty to discover. A road trip is ideal to visit the Yucatan, giving you the freedom to organize your itinerary exactly as you wish. In this article, I detailed the exact 2-week Yucatan road trip itinerary we did in November 2022, including 5 stops: Tulum, Bacalar , Merida , Valladolid , and finishing with Isla Holbox. A perfect mix of nature, culture, and cute towns.

DAY 0 

Cancun to Tulum: 2.5h drive

Most likely your Yucatan road trip will start from Cancun International Airport. If like me, massive resorts and all-inclusive tourism is not your vibe, you can head straight to Tulum, where you will start your 2-week itinerary throughout the Yucatan. 

DAY 1 TO DAY 3 – TULUM

Tulum is a great place to start your Yucatan road trip itinerary, as it has a bit of everything that the peninsula is famous for, from archeological sites to some of the best cenotes , and fantastic restaurants. And of course, incredible beaches and some of the most Instagram-famous spots in Mexico. 

A few things you shouldn’t miss during your time in Tulum: 

• Visit the  Mayan Ruins of Tulum
• Do some  shopping in the Zona Hoteleria
• Cool down in some cenotes. Grand Cenote is one the closest to Tulum and gets very busy.  Cenote Dos Ojos  is a bit further (30 min drive) and made of 2 gorgeous cenotes famous among divers. With its shallow waters, the  Cenote Azul  is very family-friendly. Head to the cenotes as early as possible to avoid the crowd. 
• Spend an afternoon in a beach club  along the stunning Tulum beach. White sand and turquoise sea, this is the perfect place for a chilled-out (or party!!) afternoon. Try Gitano Beach Club , facing a quiet cove, or La Zebra for a stunning view of the kilometers of powdery sand.

If you have more time in Tulum, here are a couple of day trips to consider:

• The archeological ruins of Coba (±45 min drive)
• The Sian Ka’an Biosphere (±90 min drive)
• Explore the beautiful Isla Mujeres

WHERE TO STAY IN TULUM – Una Vida : Cute and confirmable boutique hotel in Tulum town – La Zebra : Stunning hotel with an incredible beachfront – Habitas Tulum : All the boho vibes of Marrakesh meets Tulum WHERE TO EAT IN TUTUM – La Zebra : For a fresh lunch on the beach – Nu Tulum : Fresh and creative food, perfect for a date night. – Hartwood Tulum : Sea to table menu in an al fresco setting – Arca Open-fire cooking, small plates to shares, in a lush jungle like outdoor – Rosa Negra : Latin American steakhouse, turning into quite the party place in the evening – Moro by Habitas :: Latin cuisine with touches of Middle East. Sophisticated & delicious breakfast options

DAY 3 TO DAY 6 – BACALAR

Tulum to Bacalar: 215km – 2.5h drive

The following stop in this Yucatan road trip is the Bacalar Lagoon. Bacalar is located all the way to the South of Yucatan’s west coast, close to the Belize border. Still relatively off the tourist radar, it is a charming village located on the shore of a stunning fresh-water lake. Also known as the lagoon of seven colors because of it is multiple shades of blues, the Lagoon of Bacalar is nothing short of stunning and an absolute must-see during a road trip in the Yucatan.

Most of the activities here revolve around exploring the lagoon. Here are some of the best things to do in Bacalar:  

• Book a half-day sailing trip. During 4 hours, the captain will guide you to some of the most beautiful sites of the lagoon, stop several times for a swim and serve delicious guacamole. We booked a private trip with  Sailing Colibri .
• Explore Los Rapidos with a kayak, starting from the Los Rapidos restaurant.
• Take a  paddle board tour at sunrise . 
• Visit the colorful streets of Bacalar town, including the San Felipe Fort.

Check out my full article for more details on the best things to do in Bacalar .

WHERE TO STAY IN BACALAR I recommend 100% staying in Habitas Bacalar. Set up far south of the lagoon, the hotel has a peaceful lakefront, beautiful tent-like rooms, sophisticated food, and spectacular sunrise views. Check my full review here .

DAY 6 TO DAY 8 – MERIDA

Bacalar to Merida: 345 km – 4.5h drive

The next step in this Yucatan 2-week itinerary is the charming town of Merida , the capital of the Yucatan province. Merida is the cultural center of Yucatan, with ancient colonial buildings, museums, art galleries etc. It is also an excellent base to do some interesting day trips. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to do much in Merida, but here are a few things not to miss: 

• Stroll the  Paseo de Montejo  and admire the stunning colonial residences. Stop by  Casa Tho , a beautiful mansion hosting 10 boutiques that rotate regularly, from jewelry to fashion, perfumes, modern art, etc. 
• See the  Monumento de la Patria , and hand-carved structure featuring scenes of Mexican history.

• Visit Uxmal  (1h drive).  Uxmal is a Mayans Archeological site with ruins that are just as impressive as Chichen Itza, without the crowd. Arrive at opening time and enjoy the soft light over the site.

• Visit a Hacienda : We visited the Hacienda Mucuyché, which has a gorgeous cenote but is not a great hacienda as there is not much left of the main house. Hacienda Yaxcopoil seems much better preserved and beautiful. 
• Visit Izamal.  The entire center of this village is painted a deep yellow, making the town incredibly luminous and photogenic. Visit the convent de San Antonio, explore all the yellow streets, and climb up the pyramid Kinich Kakmó for a beautiful view of the city and the surrounding jungle. 

Depending on how you organize your Yucatan road trip, Merida can also be a good base to visit Chichen Itza (90 min drive). On our side, we decided to add Valladolid to our Yucatan itinerary, and we visited Chichen Itza from there. 

WHERE TO STAY IN MERIDA There are a lot of really great hotel options in Merida, especially cute boutique hotels. Here are a few recommendations: – The Diplomat: The cutest boutique hotel in Merida. 5 beautiful bedrooms, free champagne for breakfast, and hosts that will share plenty of recommendations for Merida and beyond. For more details, you can read my full review of The Diplomat, Merida’s best boutique hotel. – Decu Downtown: Opened in 2021, Decu Downtown is a small boutique hotel with 8 rooms, combining classic Mexican style with modern architecture. Nothing less than stunning. – Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana: A gorgeous hacienda, located just outside town. We preferred staying in town to be able to walk around easily but I must confess I regret not staying in a hacienda at least a couple of nights during our Yucatan road-trip – Cigno Hotel Boutique: An adult-only boutique hotel, with wooden furniture, a small pool, and the most amazing floor tiles! – Casa Lecanda: With beautiful tiled courtyards, a pool, and luxurious rooms, Casa Lecanda Boutique Hotel is one of the nicest boutique hotels in Merida, perfectly located next to Paseo Montejo Boulevard. – TreeHouse Boutique Hotel : 15 rooms surrounding a green courtyard, The interiors combine classic architecture and contemporary design in a very upscale blend. An oasis of peace and a great boutique hotel option in the heart of Merida.

DAY 7 TO DAY 9 – VALLADOLID

Merida to Valladolid: 160 km – 2h drive

Located deep in the Yucatan countryside, Valladolid is a charming, laid-back, and wonderfully colorful colonial town established by the Spanish in the 16 th  century. It is a great town to spend a couple of days, and the perfect place to visit several major Mayan sites in the region. My favorite things to do in Valladolid:

• Visit the  Cathedral of San Servacio , Valladolid’s most iconic building.
• Spend some time wandering the central square,  Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado  and admire the colorful colonial buildings, and beautiful arcades that line the square. 
• Try some local food at Mercado Central , a charming food hall, perfect to grab a quick meal with the locals. 
• Take a walk on  Calle de Los Frailes , the prettiest and chicest street in Valladolid. 
• Visit the  Convent of San Bernardino de Siena , dating back to the 16 th  century.
• Check the Cenote Zaci, just a few minutes walk from the center of town. When we visited it was closed and didn’t look great, but maybe we came at the wrong period. 

Valladolid is also the ideal base to organize several day trips such as: 

• Visit Chichen Itza (45min drive):  This iconic Mayan site, one of the New 7 Wonder of the World and UNESCO World Heritage is a must-see in Yucatan. As one of the most visited places in Yucatan, consider arriving before opening time (8 am), to enter before the crowd. Right after visiting Chichen Itza, take a refreshing deep in the beautiful Ik Kil cenote.  
• Explore Ek Balam , a Mayan archeological site, deeply nested in the jungle. Afterward, visit the Xcan Che cenote, my favorite one of all the cenotes of our Yucatan road trip. 
• Visit  Las Colorados,  the pink lagoon on the north shore of the Yucatan peninsula. Beautiful pictures and useful information  here .

For more details about Valladolid, all the best things to do, see and where to eat, check my full article here .

WHERE TO STAY IN VALLADOLID Unlike Merida, we didn’t find a ton of options for cute boutique hotel in Valladolid, so we decided to save some money on these nights and stayed at Hotel Waye . Comfortable, new bathrooms and centrally located, it was pretty good value for money. A few other options to consider: – Le Muuch Hotel Boutique ; Probably the best boutique option in town, with colorful rooms and a cute rooftop. – Hacienda San Miguel Yucatan : Beautiful hacienda with a pool, 10 min drive outside of town.

 DAY 9 TO DAY 13 – ISLA HOLBOX

Valladolid to Isla Holbox; 160 km – 2h drive + 15 min of taxi boat

I always love finishing an intense trip by staying a few days at the beach. That is why we decided to close our Yucatan road trip with 3 nights in Isla Holbox. This tiny island north of Cancun is well known for its laid-back atmosphere, turquoise waters, and endless sand banks, and is the perfect place to unwind. 

Enjoy the main beach, walk all the way to Punto Mosquito, the most easterly point of the sandbank, bike to Punto Coco on the opposite side to watch the sunset, indulge in Holbox best restaurants and drink as many cocktails on the beach as possible! That is it! The perfect way to end our 2-week Yucatan road trip.

WHERE TO STAY IN ISLA HOLBOX There are plenty of options to stay in Isla Holbox from affordable hotels to luxury properties. Here are a few options to consider: – Hotel Villas Flamingos : This is were we stayed during our 3 nights in Holbox. Villa Flamingo is a beautiful hotel, located directly on the beach with spacious rooms and serving delicious food. A few negative points through: 1. The service really depends on the staff and overall their English is really poor. 2. They close the beach bar from 6 to 7 pm if I remember well to move all the supplies to the restaurant.So during that time (prime Apero time if you ask me !) , you can’t even order a drink … weirdest thing ever! 3. There is no internet in the rooms only at the reception and the restaurants which is really annoying because you ended-up being on our phone during meals, exactly what we shouldn’t be doing! 4. The “creative” shower in our room, with the water coming out of a wooden piece was a disaster! So overall a nice place, but with a couple of strange things that they should really fix! – Ser Casasandra Boutique Hotel : Super chic and artsy, well located, with a stunning beach front. The Mojito’s Beach Club is perfect for lunch or a relaxing day on the beach. – Nomade Holbox : A very creative property, with nest-like room perched in the air. Not on the beach and a bit far from town, but a very unique place for sure! Lastly you night see Casa Las Tortugas being recommended on other blog posts, etc. It used to be one of the nicest hotel in Holbox but sadly it burned down in December 2022. Keep an eye out in case it makes a come back.

YUCATAN ROAD TRIP – COMMON QUESTIONS & PRACTICAL INFORMATION

What is the best time for a road trip?  The best time to visit the Yucatan peninsula is during the dry season, from November to May. The weather will be mostly sunny and quite hot, although there can be some occasional rainfall. We traveled from Mid-November to the beginning of December and experienced a few afternoons/nights of rain, while the mornings were mostly sunny. Around Christmas, New Year, and US university Spring Breaks there are large inflows of tourists (especially in the Riviera Maya), so it might be better to avoid these peak periods.

How many days do you need in Yucatan?  We did our whole road trip through Yucatan in 13 days, which was already a great amount of time, but I wish we had stayed a few more days. I would say 2 more days in Tulum, 1 more day in Merida, and maybe 1 more day in Valladolid too.

Is it safe to drive in Yucatan?  We found it incredibly easy and safe to drive in the Yucatan, The roads between the main cities are in very good condition and we only encountered 1 toll and very few police controls. The main difficulty though is the absence of street lighting, even on main highways. So it is better to drive during the daytime. Once you arrive in towns, the roads can be a bit rougher, so drive carefully. 

Where to rent a car in Yucatan?  We rented our car from Sixt and we had no issues. A few things to know though: all the car rental services are located outside of the Cancun airport. They picked us up with a mini-van at the airport and drove us to their office & car storage. The same goes for the car drop-off, so just consider the extra time involved. Also, make sure you have  a credit card  (vs. a debit card), Sixt will need it to secure your deposit. Even though we had zero issues during our road trip, I would still recommend paying for good insurance.  Find good deals on car rentals  here

Looking for hotels in Yucatan, check out some great offers on Booking.com :

Here you go, all the details of our 2 week Yucatan road trip! I hope this itinerary proves helpful and inspiring if you are planning a trip to Yucatan. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comment box below, or don’t hesitate to reach out on Instagram .

— SAVE IT FOR LATER —

Very helpful article with some nice pics! Above all, I like your map – how do you make this map? So happy to see not-Google mao 😉

Thank you for your kind words. I made the map in Photoshop!

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The Ultimate 5 Day Yucatan Itinerary in Mexico

Planning your Yucatan itinerary for a trip to Mexico? You’re in the right place, because this guide will help you plan the ultimate Yucatan Peninsula Mexico trip, to both on and off the beaten path destinations.

The best thing about the Yucatan is that it has cities and towns of all sizes to use as a home base. From big-name resort towns like Cancun, colorful colonial cities like Merida, Mexico , and smaller pueblos magicos (magic towns) like Tulum, there’s somewhere for everyone.

There are also an endless number of things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula, both in the water and on land. From Mayan ruins to admire and even climb, to swimmable cenotes (freshwater sinkholes), and Yucatan beaches, you’ll have no trouble filling your five day itinerary.

Let’s start with all the things you need to know about the Yucatan, like how to travel there, and taking the bus vs renting a car in Mexico. After that, we’ll get into all the fun stuff, like where you’ll want to go and what to do there on your 5 day Yucatan itinerary in Mexico.

Where is the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico?

The Yucatan Peninsula is located on the southeastern side of Mexico. As the word “peninsula” says, this area is surrounded by water on three sides. On the southern and eastern sides, there’s the bright blue Carribean Sea; and on the northern side, there’s the Gulf of Mexico.

This peninsula has three states: Quintana Roo, home to top Mexico beach destinations like Cancun, Riviera Maya, Tulum and Playa del Carmen; Yucatan state, home to Merida, Chichen Itza and Valladolid, and the off the more beaten path state of Campeche, Mexico.

Best time to travel to Yucatan?

The best months to visit Yucatan are from November through April. This is the dry season, when the weather is cool. As it’s located in the tropics, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is hot for most of the year, averaging 25-35°C day and night, but winter is much cooler at about 21-25°C.

Being surrounded by water, Yucatan is in the hurricane and tropical storm path. Though Hurricane Season officially runs June 1 through November 1, the weather often gets nice by mid-October. Summer is the rainy season, so expect daily rain from about May to October.

Do I need a visa for Mexico travel?

U.S. and most European passport holders don’t need to get a travel visa for Mexico — so you could even spontaneously do this Yucatan itinerary if you’d like! For a list of the countries that must have a travel visa for Mexico, head here .

When you go through the Immigration line in Mexico, you will receive your 180 day (6 month) FMM tourist card. This “card” is actually just a small piece of paper that you have to give back to an Immigration officer when you leave the country — so make sure you don’t lose your FMM.

How do I travel to the Yucatan Peninsula?

To get to Yucatan, fly into Cancun International Airport (code: CUN). There are a few other regional airports in the Yucatan Peninsula, but Cancun Airport is generally the easiest, fastest and cheapest airport to fly into.

Renting a Car in Yucatan

The Cancun Airport will have the largest selection of cars anywhere in the Yucatan. Also, it’s quite expensive to rent a car from one place and return it to another in Mexico, so keep it simple and just both rent and return the car at Cancun Airport.

Prices vary, but you can usually rent a car in Mexico for about $25USD per day, with the minimum and required amount of driver’s insurance. If you prefer full coverage insurance, you’ll pay closer to $40USD per day. You can check the options available on Holiday Extras , which show you the full price, including the hidden fees some companies might try to charge you when you pick up your car, such as extra insurance.

Yucatan Public Transportation

If you don’t want to rent a car in Mexico, you can still get around in the Yucatan Peninsula via the ADO bus . This is Mexico’s largest bus company, and it’s inexpensive and rather efficient, but you will sacrifice more time to travel on the bus versus a rental car.

In all seriousness, Mexico has a great bus system, and you can actually travel the entire country via the. This is Mexico’s largest bus company, and all their buses have large, comfortable, recliner seats, AC, electrical outlets at each seat and a bathroom on board.

Now that we’ve got all the basics out of the way, let’s get to this 5 day Yucatan itinerary for your epic Mexico trip.

Yucatan Itinerary: Days 1-2

After you arrive in Cancun, get your rental car or take the ADO bus about two hours south to Tulum, Mexico. Click here to book your ticket in advance , as this is a popular route. While Cancun is a great place, the best way to experience it is just simply staying put in an all-inclusive resort , as Cancun is known for that style of vacation.

Stay in: Tulum, Mexico

In the last few years, Tulum has become a bucket list Mexico destination for many travellers. This photogenic town is popular on Instagram and YouTube, as it’s quite beautiful. From the Tulum beaches, to its bohemian vibes and art sculptures, you’ll spend your first few days here.

There are many accommodation options in Tulum, here are some suggestions from my trusted partner, Booking.com:

Things to do in Tulum

Tulum Ruins & Beach: The Tulum Mayan Ruins are located right on Tulum Beach overlooking the Caribbean Sea. As this is a smaller ruins site, you can explore for about 1-2 hours, then take the staircase down to the beach cove below the ruins.

Tulum Beaches: Among the best beaches in Tulum, there’s Playa Ruina, the one beneath the ruins just mentioned, but there are many others. When in Tulum, check out as many of these beaches as you can: Playa Paraíso, Playa Las Palmas, Playa Pescadores and Playa Santa Fe.

Tulum Cenotes: No visit to Tulum, Mexico, is complete without a visit to the cenotes (pronounced sen-no-tays). Cenotes are essentially swimmable sinkholes and natural pools containing freshwater.

There are said to be 6,000 Yucatan cenotes, and some of the ones are just minutes from Downtown Tulum. These include Cenote Calavera, Gran Cenote, Cenote Car Wash and Cenote Zacil-Ha, all located 20 minutes or less by car from Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum).

Yucatan Itinerary: Days 2-4

When it’s time to leave Tulum, drive your rental car or take the bus two hours north-west to Valladolid. This is one of the 135 or so pueblos magicos (magic towns) in the country, all recognized for their unique qualities and accommodations to comfortably host visitors.

Stay in: Valladolid, Mexico

Valladolid is one of the prettiest colonial towns in Mexico, and on the smaller side, so don’t stay too far outside of Downtown Valladolid. As it’s still an up and coming destination, you can find a nice place for a relatively small amount of money.

In Valladolid itself, there are some great sites right downtown. These include the iconic Iglesia de San Servacio Valladolid church, Ex-Convento de San Bernardino de Siena, a 16th Century Franciscan convent, and the beautiful Calzada de los Frailes street.

Located within walking distance of downtown, you can go for a refreshing swim in Cenote Zaci. Located within the city limits, this is one of the best things to do in Valladolid. There’s also a restaurant at this cenote, so you can go for a swim and then eat a nice meal.

Chichen Itza & Cenote Ik Kil

As it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, Chichen Itza is a Mexico bucket list site, and among the best things to do in Yucatan. Located 45 minutes from Downtown Valladolid by car, you’ll want to head straight there in the morning after a hearty breakfast. Click here to book your transport ahead of time, as the best options sell out fast.

Since it’s so popular, Chichen Itza gets crowded and you’ll want to beat the crowds as much as possible. The site is also quite large, so wear comfy clothes and trainers, and figure you’ll be there at least 3-4 hours.

After a long (and likely sweaty) day at Chichen Itza, head to Ik Kil Cenote for a refreshing swim. Located just 10 minutes from Chichen Itza, the later in the day you visit, the better, so you can avoid the crowds.

If you prefer visiting a more off the beaten path Yucatan cenote, head to Cenote Yokdzonot or Cenote Chihuan, which is located inside a cave. Both aren’t too far from Chichen Itza, and will be far less crowded than Cenote Ik Kil.

Yucatan Itinerary: Days 4-5

With a bit more ground to cover in the Yucatan, you’ll wrap up your five day itinerary in Merida. This is known as the Cultural Capital of Yucatan, and also the safest city in Mexico. By car or bus, it is about 2.5 hours from Valladolid.

Stay in: Merida, Mexico

The best neighbourhoods in Merida for visitors are Paseo de Montejo and Centro Historico (Historic Downtown), located right next to one another.

Centro Historico is where you’ll find many historic sites, relaxing parks, boutique shops selling artisan crafts, and some of the best restaurants and bars in Merida. The Paseo de Montejo is the prettiest street in town, lined with trees, sidewalk cafes and charming shops.

Things to do in Merida

Free Merida Walking Tour: Get to know Downtown on the walking tour offered by the Merida Tourism Office. These hour-long tours depart daily (except Sundays) from the Palacio Municipal building in Plaza Grande (Main Plaza) at 9:30am. Note: There are no tours on Sundays.

Stroll Paseo de Montejo: As this beautiful street is only about two miles (3.2km) from end to end, you’ll want to walk the whole street because there’s a lot to see. You’ll also find charming cafes and restaurants along the way if you get hungry or need a coffee.

The Monumento a la Patria (Monument to the Fatherland), a large monument with 300 hand-carved figures, is on the northern end. From there, walk south passing the European mansions like Museo Palacio Canton and Casa Montejo 495, which are both now museums.

Eat at Merida Gastronomy Museum: The Museo de la Gastronomía Yucateca (MUGY) is part restaurant, and part museum in Merida . Sample all the best Yucatan food at MUGY, like cochinita pibil (suckling pig) and poc chuc (grilled pork), and then take the short museum tour.

Located behind the restaurant, there’s a mini-Mayan village with traditional houses and kitchens. Going into each home’s kitchen, you’ll learn a different aspect of traditional Yucatan cuisine and its unique flavours.

Eat at ​​Taqueria La Lupita (As Seen on Netflix): Head to Parque Santiago and the Mercado de Santiago (Santiago Market) to eat at La Lupita. This humble taco shop was seen in Episode 3 of the Netflix show, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat .

At La Lupita, sample traditional panuchos (tortillas with black bean paste inside) and salbutes (puffy fried tortillas), and wash them down with piña con chaya (pineapple and chaya) juice. Perfect for a cheap meal in Merida, enjoy three tacos and a drink for only about $7USD.

Yucatan Itinerary: Day 5

Sadly, this is the time to head back to Cancun for a departing flight. The drive from Merida to Cancun is about 3.5 hours, so remember to give yourself enough time to return the rental car (if you got one) and still catch your flight.

AUTHOR BIO :

Shelley is a former Miami travel magazine editor who ditched the office for the world! After travelling solo to 14 states in Mexico, she now lives in Merida, Mexico full time. Shelley now helps travellers plan their dream Merida trip through her site, TravelToMerida.com .

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Traveler. Dreamer. Cat lover. Wondering around the world with my backpack and my camera. Contributing to make the world a better place.

12 thoughts on “ The Ultimate 5 Day Yucatan Itinerary in Mexico ”

oh my gosh!! This trip looks epic. I have been itching to go to Mexico and this looks like a great itinerary for my first trip and great to know about the weather and what time of year is best. Love the variety in this. Thanks for sharing.

I’m so glad you put Valladolid in there. I love the beaches in Mexico, but I’ve wanted so bad to step away from the beaches and visit some of the more historical and cultural parts of Mexico! Merida is also high on my list!

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Yucatan Itinerary – 15 Days on the Road Around the Yucatan Peninsula

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Renting a car to drive around is the best way to discover a destination and its hidden corners. This is why I wrote this 15-day Yucatan itinerary, one of the many I did, with the hope to inspire you to do the same.

If you believe it’s dangerous, I would like to show you that it is not, if you follow some commonsense rules.

I have lived in Cancun for 7 years and traveled around, by car and by bus for 2 years, and besides some common-sense rules, there are other local details to pay attention to, which I will talk about in another post.

In this article, I have tailored two examples of a 15 day Yucatan itinerary, just the way I would do it if I were coming to Mexico for the first time.

In both Yucatan Itineraries I will take you through the most amazing things to do in Yucatan, and the Riviera Maya, which is not in Yucatan, but it is in the  Yucatan peninsula , the entire region that includes Yucatan, Quintana Roo, and Campeche .

I will also cover some practical tips and things to do and to see where to eat and much more.

Read on, and let me take you around my beautiful Yucatan peninsula!

➢ Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? Yes, you do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens, I am covered. I have been using   Safety Wing , and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level. Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER . Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase. If you are undecided yet, you can read my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico for more clarity.

ITINERARY A – 15 DAYS ITINERARY IN THE  YUCATAN PENINSULA (INCLUDING TULUM)

Map of the below yucatan itinerary.

Day 1 – Arrival and driving to Xpu-ha

You will arrive at Cancun International Airport, but I would leave Cancun for the last and drive straight to Akumal, at about 100 km south on the Riviera Maya, unless your plane gets late at night and you are exhausted.

You would have booked your car already. I use  Discover Car  to find out the best available rate on the market.

Discover Cars Mexico Review

Discover Cars is one of the most popular car rental for many reasons, among which:

✔︎ straight forward information ✔︎ full coverage add-on ✔︎ listing of different companies with reviews

Once you pick up your car at the airport you drive all the way down along the Riviera Maya, along with the Carretera Federal to your destination.

There are about 100 km, 80miles. That’s why I was saying, depending on what time you arrive and how exhausted you are you can decide whether to stay in Cancun for the night or to hit the road right away.

I would opt for the second option if you can.

Let me explain.

You can get either to Xpua or Akumal, they are the best beach in the Riviera Maya and worth a stop. Akumal has also some friendly turtles that swim right offshore.

So you can literally swim with them. I wrote a post on how to swim with the turtles in Akumal that goes into more in detail.

Here you can choose between the following hotels. Well, there are many more of course, but those two are my pick.

  Akumal Club Caribe   –  it’s a scarce 3 stars only, nothing fancy or glamorous, let’s say decent and has lots of good reviews, but it has the advantage to be right on the beach, right where the turtles are.

Esencia  – If you want to get fancy and take a splurge, this is the place to be. One of my favorite spots on the Riviera Maya and where I would stay.

Here you will find the elegant simplicity of the Italian taste merging with the Mexican feel. Service and food are top-notch and the location is just unbeatable right on Xpu-ha beach. This hotel is a full 5 stars.

But you can check out all the hotels in  Akumal  and  Xpu-ha  to choose among the many others.

Day 2 –  Relax on the beach in Akumal and swim with the turtles

Today you will swim with the turtles in Akumal and I would explore also Xpuha beach for a nice long walk. You can also enjoy some paddleboarding or for the bravest, try kite surfing.

If you are like me and prefer to explore rather than lie on the beach doing nothing, just outside Akumal on the main road, there are a few great cenotes that you can check out. I recommend going early morning especially if it falls on the weekend.

I enjoyed very much the cenote Eden where you can jump and snorkel or just relax on the wooden platforms.

But if you wish to check out all the cenotes in the surrounding you can have a look at my  guide to the cenotes of the Riviera Maya,  where you will find a lot of inspiration on places to visit while you are in the area

At the end of the day, you will move to Tulum, because, you’ve got to live the Tulum vibes.

You will check out at your hotel and will go have dinner in the so renowned  Hartwood restaurant  on the beach road. If there is too long of a cue, (because they don’t accept reservations) you can choose among many other great restaurants.

Check out my post on  the best restaurants in Tulum,  I obviously don’t talk about all of them but I mention the most popular ones that are also my favorite.

Where to stay in Tulum

A difficult choice indeed. There are so many beautiful places and for any budget. Here is my pick for you but you can check out a longer list among  my favorite hotels in Tulum

► Trendiest Beach hotel in Tulum  –  CASA MALCA ► Tulum Luxury beach hotel  –  BE TULUM   ► All-inclusive resort in Tulum –   DREAMS TULUM ► Best hotel in the new trendy neighborhood (not on the beach) La Veleta Tulum –  HOLISTIKA TULUM ► Lessly priced hotel in Tulum –  HOWLITA  

Day 3 – Tulum  archeological site and beach time to relax

I would go to see the archeological site in Tulum early morning. It opens at 8 and closes at 16.30 and you can either have access from the beach road or from the Carretera federal coming from Akumal on the left you will see the sign.

The best way to enjoy a Mayan ancient city is early morning when few other people are around, but most of all when it’s not so hot. Especially in the summer, I would avoid midday time.

You can also have access at 6.30 am paying extra money, it was around 250 MXN when I checked last year.

However, if you go for the sunrise, consider that in the summer the sun rises at around 6.30 so you will miss it.

If you are there in winter, the sunrise is at around 7.20 so you will be able to enjoy the ruins at sunrise. If you are a photographer you might want to check it out. Just keep in mind that early morning opening hours are, not 100% reliable.

There are guides at the entrance that you can hire to give you some interesting information on the site, as well if you like.

What can you do if you have only one day in Tulum?

After the tour, you can just hang out on the beach for the day and in the late afternoon when it’s not so hot, you might want to take a walk in the pueblo or on the beach road and check out local shops, have a coffee and wander around to explore the local life go by.

If you want to optimize every single minute of your time there (not that you wouldn’t do it with option 2) and check out other Tulum wanders, you can visit one of the nearby cenotes.

There are so many. In this guide on the best cenotes that you can visit around Tulum , you can choose among the most beautiful ones.

At night you can stay in your spectacular hotel or find another awesome restaurant in the guide I gave you here above.

Day 4 – Muyil and Sian Ka’an – off the beaten track

Today I don’t give you options if you love my travels, and the things that I have visited so far, you will love this day that I have organized for you.

Get up early and after a quick breakfast just drive southwards and stop at  Muyil archaeological site . A gem. You can walk around on your own and climb to the tower at the end of the circuit to get a spectacular view of the area.

You can access to the see from there as well. I missed that way out when I went back and drove on the main road down to the next stop, where fishing boats are waiting for you to take you on a tour of a lifetime.

You are now within the territory of the Sian Ka’an protected reserve . There are 2 tours available. A short one and the longer one. I took the first one and I am dying to take the other. Hopefully soon.

The boat will take you through those natural canals among the mangroves in the lagoon down to a path called the lazy river.

You will then jump off the boat and float all the way to the end, letting the gentle current take you down. It’s so soothing and fun. I did it on my own and it was almost a mystical experience to me.

The longer tour would continue the trip down to the other side of the biosphere where the lagoon meets the Caribbean sea. It must be spectacular indeed. Let me know if you pick this one.

Please make sure you arrange the price with your guide before starting the tour and pay at the end. They only accept cash.

Please be reminded that in order to take these local tours it’s always advisable to have local currency at hand.

End your day basking on the beach in your hotel, or if you haven’t booked a beach hotel you can just hang out in the pool of your own place in town or find a rooftop bar for a breathtaking sunset on the jungle.

Day 5 – Coba all day and night in Valladolid

Among the amazing things to do in Yucatan , you will see that Coba is included, but it’s actually not in Yucatan, but in the Mexican State of Quintana Roo, in the geographical area of the Yucatan peninsula.

Anyway, it’s amazing, one of my favorites and you absolutely cannot miss it.  Besides, it fits perfectly in your Yucatan itinerary.

It’s a refreshing walk around the ancient buildings, or what remains of them and the climbing to the tower top will offer you an astounding view over the jungle, an infinite green carpet. Totally worth the effort.

Be it the first thing to do in Coba , in the morning, when the temperature is still bearable.

Then when you end your visit to the Archeological site, you can head to the Coba cenotes for a refreshing dip.

You will drive then to your beautiful hotel in Valladolid at about 1h 30” drive.

Among the suggested Hotels:

Meson del Marques,  right on the main plaza in Valladolid, it’s a very simple but comfortable, mid-range priced hotel.  View prices and info on Booking.com

Verde Morada : luxury property in the elegant Calzada de los Frailes road, where everything happens in Valladolid.  View prices and info on Booking.com

Day 6 – Valladolid explore the town

Valladolid is the getaway to Yucatan from the Riviera Maya, a colorful pretty town with beautiful colonial buildings, recently restored to become magnificent mansions and hotels.

Here you can browse around the town and enjoy local museums, take a dip in the cenote, right in the historical center, or explore the nearby areas.

In my thorough guide, I am including all the amazing  things to do in Valladolid ,  among which:

• WALK AROUND THE HISTORICAL CENTRE
• VISIT THE EX CONVENT
• HANG OUT ON THE MAIN SQUARE
• JOIN A FREE WALKING TOUR
• ENJOY THE SHOW OF LIGHT AND MUSIC
• RENT A BIKE AND EXPLORE THE NEARBY CENOTES
• VISIT THE MUSEUMS
• TAKE A DIP IN THE CENOTE ZACI
• TAKE A BIKE TOUR
• GO VISIT ONE OF THE 7TH WONDERS OF THE WORLD – Chichen Itza’

Read also my guide to the best restaurants in Valladolid (updated in 2022)

Day 7 – Chichen-Itza and cenote – night in Izamal

Today you will get up early and get to Chichen Itza by 8.00 am, right when it opens. It’s the best time to visit the remaining of majestic Mayan city before the crowds of tourists arrive on the big busses. It’s a mystical place and the way to visit is in peace and tranquillity.

Too bad for the local vendors, but at that time they are still setting up their boots

Take your time and walk around or hire a guide to explain the Mayan history and Chichen-Itza’s prosperous times.

Don’t forget to get to the sacred cenote and look out for the beautiful bluebirds with a long tails shaped like a pendulum

Consider at least 3 hours to visit the entire site.

Entrance 553 MXN

Head to the very touristy but worth visiting cenote Ik-kil- It’s a cave cenote with wild plants hanging from above and covering the rocky walls. A little over-crowded but a beautiful picture-worthy place.

Entrance 80 MXN

Or you can check out other amazing cenotes near Chichen -Itza that are less crowded.

Head to  Izamal  and enjoy the night walking tour around the city when the project scenes of the colonization times on the city walls, with games of light and music. Narration is both in English and Spanish

Day 8 – All day in Izamal

Izamal is mostly renowned as the Yellow town, for the yellow walls of the buildings in the historical center. It’s mesmerizing to watch.

The plaza is where everything happens, colorful vendors will be hanging out to sell their goodies and locals and tourists alike are wandering around day and evening. It’s a very safe town, but always be on the alert .

What to do in Izamal?

There is not much to see besides exploring the  Monastery of San Antonio de Padua,  right in the heart of the town, and walking around the yellow roads, sitting in a cafe’ and enjoying the colonial vibes. 

What not to do in Izamal?

I would not take a ride in one of that horse-chart and if you are a conscious traveler like me you wouldn’t want to promote tourist attractions created by animal exploitation.

Where to stay in Izamal

I stayed at  San Miguel Archangel hotel, a simple but cozy property right by the plaza.  Check out prices and reviews on Booking.com 

Day 9 – Merida city tour

Merida is an unmissable stop, with its pretentious old colonial houses, lining Paseo de Montejo, built as a copy of the Champes d’Elises, to witness the ambitious goals of the colonizers and founders of the city.

The main plaza as well is the heartbeat of the city, especially on weekends when local families and tourists alike gather to attend local dances and music.

Don’t miss it, if you want to get into the Yucatecan folklore, taste local street food.

INSIDER TIP – I would suggest you join a walking tour in Merida to learn about the fascinating history of the white city narrated by a local guide.

Day 10 – Driving to Rio Lagartos through small towns

From Merida to Rio Lagartos appears to be a long drive but it’s a tour on its’ own. Driving through the small local town where tourist invasion hasn’t arrived will take you on a journey through authentic Mexico.

If you are a photographer amateur or pro, you will find lots of subjects for your amazing unique pictures. You should take the tour offered by one of the best guides in Yucatan, a marine biologist and a passionate photographer, William Canto. (he speaks English)

Try to get to Rio Lagartos by sunset though, because although the fishing town doesn’t have anything charming, sunsets and sunrises on the water are always quite a remarkable gift of nature. And because of its location, you will be lucky to see both.

Find a Hotel where to stay in Rio Lagartos for the night and have dinner in one of the local restaurants. My vegan friends you might need to stick to the usual guacamole, my lifesaver when I travel in Mexico because the place is not very vegan-friendly.

Read more about Rio Lagartos .

Where to stay in Rio Lagartos

One of the newest addition, the cute little hotel Yuum Ha is located right on the water in the heart of Rio Lagartos .

Check rates & availability:    Booking.com

POSADA PERICO MARINERO

This cute property was one of my favorite when I visited. The rooms are spacious, brand new, and nicely decorated. It’s also right on the water.

Click here  to see other options on where to stay in Rio Lagartos

Day 11 – Rio Lagartos tour and Las Coloradas

Today you have an appointment with your guide that you would have previously booked if you have followed my instructions on  the best way to visit Rio Lagartos

I always recommend booking your tour with William , because he’s the only guide who is also a biologist and a photographer and very passionate about the area, which is also his home. He will take you around the best spots at the right time to make the most of your trip to Rio Lagartos.

His tours can also include Las Coloradas if you wish so that you don’t have to worry about the bus limited schedule, and you can do it all in one day.

And, he speaks English. 

At the end of the tour, you can either spend another night there and use the next days to make your way back to Cancun slowly and stop at the Ek Balam Archeological site.

Day 12 – Ek Balam and cenotes (or Back to Cancun)

If you decide to stop by Ek Balam Archeological site you will be fascinated by this less known but still spectacular old Mayan city.

I would ask for a guide to take you around and give you some historical facts. Otherwise, you can just take a walk around the remains of the old buildings that have been dug out from the thick jungle. You can now walk through secular trees and ancient paths like a real explorer of ancient civilizations.

At the end of your visit, the fun is not over. You can rent a bike and reach the cenote that’s about a couple of miles away from the site entrance.

There you can find a  refreshing stop before hitting the road again and reaching your next destination.

Day 13 – Cancun relaxing day before departure

If you have your flight in the next couple of days, you can end your Mexican vacation in Cancun.

Whether you are in the mood for a relaxing couple of days or you wish to continue to explore, Cancun will be just right for you.

Choose among  the best luxury hotels  on the beach if you wish to splurge and get pampered.

Or if you prefer to continue to explore you can choose a hotel in downtown Cancun and then organize some daily trips from there.

You can  visit Isla Mujeres

There are a million  things you can do in Cancun .  You just run the risk that you will never want to leave.

Suggested hotels in Cancun

NIZUC Resort & Spa  –  High-end property, not all-inclusive, elegant, and classy for both family or couples, or a friend retreats. (you have an adult-only beach and pool worry not!) From 500 USD

Check rates & availability on   Booking.com

Marriott Cancun –  Marriott brand has always been a guaranteed quality and the Cancun resort keeps the promise. Also located on a spectacular stretch of the worldly famous Cancun beach this beautiful hotel is perfect for those who want to travel in style without breaking the bank. From 200 USD

Salinas Cancun –  For those who love to travel on a budget and prioritize convenient locations and functionality, Salinas might be for you. If you don’t like dormitories, they have private rooms as well, beautifully decorated and spacious.  The hotel is right in the heart of downtown Cancun right beside the ADO station. A private room can get as low as 60USD

ITINERARY B (includes Holbox)

Mexico on the road – 15 days around the yucatan peninsula (including holbox), map of the itinerary b around the yucatan peninsula.

This itinerary is very similar to the above one but I gave much more importance to the historical part, avoiding Tulum, the most touristic.

This way, I thought, I would make everybody happy.

Of course, itinerary samples can be countless, but I hope that these two can give you an idea of the distances and what you can do and see in the  Yucatan Peninsula.

Please note that where you don’t see the descriptions you can refer to the first itinerary. Otherwise,  please feel free to ask or click on the links I share with the relative posts, for more detailed information.

Let’s start

Day 1 – Arriving in Cancun, get your car rental and either spend one night there or head to Valladolid

Depending on the arrival time. Any time before 3 pm you can get to Valladolid and leave the touristy part for last.

I always recommend avoiding driving at night.

Sleep in Cancun or Valladolid

Day 2 – Valladolid city visit

Accommodation options in Valladolid

Day 3 – Chichen-Itzà

Visit Chichen-Itza’ early morning,  cenote Ik-ill, then head to Merida.

Sleep in Merida

Day 5 – Visit Merida

One day in Merida, visiting the city, take the free walking tour at 10 am from the visitor center in the main plaza.

Day 6 – Uxmal ruins and the Ruta Puuc

If you are interested in Mexican culture and history you cannot avoid Uxmal, to me even a more interesting archeological site than Chichen-Itza’.

Then I would spend the night in the  Uxmal Hacienda   or one of the lovely  hotels around Uxmal  and enjoy the jungle vibes. If you like to venture out there are a few cenotes in the area.

I almost got lost so I am not able now to give you directions, but if you ask the locals there they will let you know.

You can also visit the other archeological sites of the Ruta Puuc, Sayil is the one that I liked a lot.

Otherwise, just relax in your charming hacienda , listen to the chirping birds and look out for some monkey or other cute (and not so cute) jungle inhabitants.

Day 7  – Visit Izamal

Drive to Izamal visit the town and stay for the day and night

Sleep in Izamal

Day 8  – Ek Balam – Rio Lagartos

Set off to Ek Balam ruins (better said Ek Balam archeological site) on your way to Rio Lagarto. It’s a nice cultural stop and you will certainly have time for a stop in the cenote. Then head to Rio Lagartos

Sleep in Rio Lagartos

Day 9 – Rio Lagartos tour

The unmissable tour with William , the best naturalistic guide in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Day 10 – 12 Holbox

Spend 3 nights in the spectacular island of  Holbox  – enjoy the sargasso-free immaculate white sand beach, watch the graceful flamingos hanging out carless of the human presence, eat delicious healthy food. And if it’s whale sharks season (June through September) don’t miss the spectacular tour that takes you to swim with these gentle giants of the sea.

Check out Holbox hotels on Booking.com

Day 13 – Cancun

On day 13 leave Holbox in the morning and head to Cancun (2 hours drive). You will relax in one of the fancy hotels on the spectacular and Oh! So famous Cancun beach before heading back home, or continue your journey anywhere else.

Sleep in Cancun

End of the trip!

Suggested variation of the itinerary B around Yucatan

Squeeze in el cuyo.

If you are an explorer like me and want to see as much as possible, you might want to check out El Cuyo, a newborn touristic resort, previously known among the kite surfers for the frequent favorable windy days, now on the map of any beach lover escaping from the crowds of the Riviera Maya.

So you could spend one night less in Holbox and squeeze one night at El Cuyo.

In this post on El Cuyo Yucatan ,  I am sharing all the reasons why you will love El Cuyo, and I will give you tips on where to stay, to eat, and more.

Stop by one of the most beautiful cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula: Chooj-Ja

On the way from Cancun to Valladolid by the statal road (libre), not the highway (Cuota), you cannot miss the cenote sign (see picture below).

It’s located on the stretch of road between the turn to Chiquila’ (Holbox) and the one to El Cuyo.

Entry is 100 MXN, showers are available and mandatory to use in order to wash off any cream you might have on the skin that can contaminate the water of the cenote.

Open every day from 8 to 4 but it’s recommendable to go on Wednesdays and Fridays where it’s most likely that you have the cenote all for yourself. (and you are most welcome  )

ORGANIZED GUIDED ITINERARIES IN YUCATAN

If traveling alone is not your gem or if you just want to join a group of like-minded people to travel with for some time. I have partnered with a prestigious and world-wide renewed company, G Adventures , that organizes travel itineraries all around the world. You can choose your trip among many others based not only on the itinerary but on age range and type of trip. They have everything for all needs.

MAP OF THE YUCATAN PENINSULA

In this map, I have included all the places I am talking about in the post, but also those where I haven’t included for time availability reasons, but you could still use it as an alternative to the mentioned things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula .

FOR FURTHER READING

• Weather in Mexico City in November + Things to Do and Tips
• Adventure in Cozumel: Top 5 Outdoor Activities for Thrill-Seekers
• The Pros And Cons of Living in Cozumel 
• 7 Amazing Day Trips from Puebla Mexico (+ Tour Recommendations)
• Is Puebla Safe to Travel to Right Now?

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master w hich is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.

Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico .

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card . It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.

Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.

Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico . If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:

• Is Cancun Safe?
• Is Tulum Safe?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico

🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?

If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards. It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa

💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸

A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:

👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. 👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts 👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals! 👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia . 👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals

Happy travels!!

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

THE PERFECT YUCATAN ITINERARY FOR ROAD TRIPS OR BACKPACKING

15 Jun 2023   ||    MEXICO

The Yucatan Peninsula – accurately depicted as a beach lined, jungle shrouded paradise. With distinctive cuisine, numerous Mayan ruins, comfortable accommodation, vibrant colonial cities with affordable prices, this Yucatan itinerary is ideal for an exciting road trip or backpacking adventure. Include the well maintained, drivable roads, it becomes a contender for one of the best road trips in Mexico!

This Yucatan itinerary is perfect for first time backpackers and solo travellers, or seasoned adventurers who want to see the less touristy regions on the peninsula. After spending two months slowly travelling across this sensational section of Mexico, we’ve picked out the prettiest, most genuine destinations, while avoiding the conventional, overcrowded, mass-tourism hubs.

Our route includes suggestions for lodging, activities, add-ons if you have extra days, driving information and more. We hope this helps you plan your perfect trip!

IN THIS GUIDE //

A YUCATAN ITINERARY

Where is the yucatan peninsula, why visit the yucatan, is the yucatan safe.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO CANCUN

GETTING AROUND THE YUCATAN

– CANCUN CAR RENTAL

– BUSES IN THE YUCATAN

THE YUCATAN ITINERARY

– CAncun

– bacalar

– Calakmul

– Campeche City

– Merida

– Vallodolid

– beach options

Final Thoughts

The Yucatan Peninsula is in far south eastern Mexico, bordering Guatemala and Belize. 

If you hear people refer to the Yucatan, it is not always in reference to the peninsula! Yucatan is also an individual state in Mexico, within the Yucatan Peninsula. The states of Quintana Roo and Campeche make up the total of the Mexican Peninsula. Geographically, the entire peninsula includes parts of Chiapas, northern Guatemala and Belize too, but our Yucatan itinerary refers to a trip through the Mexican states of Campeche, Quintana Roo and Yucatan.

Anytime we refer to ‘the Yucatan’ here in this itinerary, it’s referring to these three Mexican states. 

The Yucatan Peninsula has attained legendary status as a vacation paradise of pristine white sand beaches, perfectly azure waters and plentiful sunshine. I’m guessing this draws in most of the crowds!

It is also a great introduction to Mexico – distinct in culture, gastronomy and terrain to the rest of the country but with familiar characteristics that makes it feel quintessentially Mexican. 

Additionally, the tourist and backpacking infrastructure in the Yucatan is simply top notch. The quality roads, numerous bus connections, abundant hotels and hostels, plus almost endless activities to suit all interests makes it a fantastic option for a Mexico vacation. It is also very child-friendly!

It is also a great longer-term travelling destination. Although this Yucatan itinerary is designed to suit a vacation length of two weeks to a month, an extended road trip or backpacking Yucatan adventure is also possible following essentially this same route.

Yes, the Yucatan is safe to travel. As with most tourist destinations, petty crime happens, but is rare. It’s almost completely avoidable by taking the usual precautions, such as not getting too drunk or walking around in the dark alone late at night. 

The region has recently been in the headlines due to several isolated incidents relating to drug cartels. These offences never intentionally target tourists, and you are extremely unlikely to ever have any contact with organised crime.

Mexico gets a bad reputation due to these drug rings, however in reality, the crime you are most likely to have happen to you is someone pickpockets your phone (happened to me on the Mexico City subway). Violent crime is extremely rare.

Having said that, this itinerary avoids the tourist hubs of Tulum, Cancun and Playa Del Carmen. These are hotspots for tourist-related petty crime (unsurprising since they are big party centres and drunk, careless people equate to opportunistic crime). If you decide to avoid these towns, the chances of you even just being a victim of theft is extremely minimal.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO CANCUN?

The month you land in Cancun can dictate the type of activities you do on your trip. Having said that, we have spent time in this area of Mexico during both the wet and dry seasons and can confirm – it is a great holiday or backpacking destination at any time of year! 

The peak season in the Yucatan runs from December through April. This is when the weather is best, however, as expected, the crowds also roll in too during this time of year. Christmas and New Year, in particular, are very busy and expensive.

Shoulder seasons can be excellent, both for prices and crowds. Consider visiting in November or May, when the full monsoon season has only just begun or is easing off. The weather can still be great!

The rainy season in the Yucatan runs from May/June to October and the weather can be unpredictable during this period. Prospects of heavy rain are higher and there is a risk of hurricanes . We spent two months in the Yucatan during July and August and really enjoyed it; the weather was not an issue. It is also really green and pretty! We did get caught in a hurricane in Belize from not paying attention to the forecasts, so would recommend staying up to date, just in case. There is also a sargassum (seaweed) issue on (mostly) the Riviera Maya beaches during this time of year (see further down for more information).

In terms of temperatures , the Yucatan is hot and humid all year around, with March to August being the warmest on average. 

Avoid Easter like the plague; in Mexico this holiday is huge, so prices and crowds shoot way up.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR MAYAN RUIN    |    WHY ARE VW BEETLES EVERYWHERE IN MEXICO?

GETTING AROUND ON THIS YUCATAN ITINERARY

We have hopped across the Yucatan on tourist class buses, in rental cars and on little collectivos (minivans that leave when full). All these methods of transport were great, however for a shorter trip with strict time constraints we would recommend a rental car. This option adds additional flexibility and saves lots of time if your Yucatan itinerary is pressed for time.

CANCUN CAR RENTAL

We always rented our vehicles from Playa Del Carmen, along the Riviera Maya south of Cancun. However, as almost all international flights arrive in Cancun, we would recommend getting a car rental from there.

There are all the normal international rental options in airport arrivals, you can’t miss them! Our best experiences were with National, who we got through Discover Cars .

CAR HIRE FOR THIS YUCATAN ITINERARY

We always rent our vehicles all over the world, including our recent trips in Mexico, with Discover Cars . They’re often the most affordable, plus they paid out immediately on an insurance claim we made when our car took some heavy damage in Sicily. We fully recommend them.

If you book through the link below, we make a small profit, at zero cost to you, which helps us write these posts with no advertising! We only endorse products and companies we *actually* use regularly. For more information, read our position on affiliates .

TAKE A LOOK BELOW OR  CHECK CAR RENTAL  

Buses in the yucatan

Tourist buses in the Yucatan are predominantly run by ADO, a company which covers most routes from Cancun all the way across to Mexico City. The standards are high, the buses are safe and we fully recommend this option if you do not have the choice of renting a car. 

ADO have a website and an app, where booking early often gets you discounts (they’re a bit pricey so worth doing!). Both the website and app can be translated into English. Your ticket is saved to your phone, so you don’t need to print anything. The app can crash occasionally, so be patient.

All the main stops on this Yucatan itinerary are reachable with ADO buses. For smaller destinations, collectivos or a rental car will be your best bet – we’ve noted any locations where you might have difficulty.

WHY THIS YUCATAN ITINERARY DOES NOT INCLUDE MUCH IN THE RIVIERA MAYA

Quintana Roo has the highest number of tourists out of the Yucatan States. These vacationers tend to clump into densely packed zones around Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and the chaos that is Tulum.

Tulum, in particular, is an environmental disaster, where no number of additional visitors is practical, especially during peak season. For that reason, we leave these destinations off our itinerary. It would be easy enough to incorporate them into your Yucatan tour, if you choose to. However, we hope you will avoid them and visit some less well-known but far more welcoming, value-centric and environmentally ethical locations.

We’ve written a little about some problems the Riviera Maya faces if you’re interested to know more.

Honestly, those towns all kind of suck, anyway.

THE ULTIMATE YUCATAN ITINERARY

This route can be done in either direction, there is no difference. We have incorporated lots of little extras in case you have more time, or just like to jam-pack your itinerary! 

We’ve mentioned any noteworthy accommodations, fees for attractions and other helpful recommendations.

CANCUN (1 NIGHT)

Cancun is not really a focal point on this Yucatan itinerary. It’s a mega-hub for all-inclusive resorts, cruise ships and international arrivals. However, we quite enjoy spending a night in Cancun Centro when we pass through. 

Parque de las Palapas is the central square with a small stage, lots of cheap food stalls, music, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s not uncommon to see little children playing and families celebrating. Cancun Centro is a far cry from the hotel zone which is basically segregated from the residents of the area. 

This area is our go-to for a cheap evening out before we head onto our next destination. There are many excellent value hotels around the perimeter of the square and the ADO bus station only a few minutes away on foot.

Our lodging recommendation – The Queztal

CANCUN OPTIONS

It is possible to skip this night in Cancun entirely if your flight arrival is in the morning. Grab your ADO bus immediately at the airport to your onward location. 

From the airport, there is the option of travelling directly to Cancun Centro, Playa Del Carmen or Tulum. If you have a different bus destination (such as Bacalar below), grab a bus to Cancun Centro and connect from there. The ADO buses leave regularly from outside airport arrivals.

There is no need to secure a ticket in advance for the airport bus. Use the ADO app or website to check the routes.

PUNTA ALLEN - OPTIONAL DETOUR

Punta Allen is an extraordinary hidden gem in the Sian Ka’an Bioreserve. Located along three hours of bumpy, jungle-clad roads south of Tulum, you’ll need to prep for some careful driving for this one! It is possible to get to Punta Allen by collectivos and/or boat from Tulum if you are unable to rent a vehicle. Check with your accommodation in advance if this is an option you’d like to pursue. Another option is paying for a taxi, but this will be pricey! 

Reviews of the road to Punta Allen may make you fearful, but it is fine. Take it slow, you don’t need a four-wheel drive vehicle.

At the end of the miniscule peninsula, you will find one of the most remote areas along the Maya Riviera coastline. With only a handful of lodging and dining options, it attracts just a trickle of tourists. If you are looking for a laidback, complete-opposite-of-Tulum beach-vibe, this is the place for you.

Punta Allen has boat tours available for snorkelling, dolphin spotting and viewing the many birds of the Yucatan! All just off the quietest, most peaceful slither of jungle and beach.

Our accommodation recommendation: Cielo y Selva

Bacalar (2-4 NIGHTs)

The Bacalar lagoon is a can’t-miss destination. The ‘lagoon of seven colours’ is known for dazzling azure-blue shades of water. This little Pueblo Magico is mostly sleepy and quiet, but with enough food, activity and lodging options to keep you comfortable and entertained for several days. It’s lovely to have such little traffic around!

The most popular activity here is to (obviously) get out on the lake. Whether it’s kayaking, stand up paddle boarding or taking a regular boat, you need to spend time on the lagoon. There are a lot of companies that can provide these services – secure through your accommodation or use Viator .

RESTAURANTS IN BACALAR

We had some particularly memorable food in Bacalar and (surprisingly) some of the cheapest wine we found in Mexico over six months. There are a lot of decent vegetarian options too.

♦ Mango y Chile – a  dedicated vegan restaurant with great views, WiFi and vibes, we fully recommend. 

♦  Mi Burrito Bacalar – w e also loved the vegetarian options plus the staff were lovely. 

♦  Pizzeria Bertilla – the pizza here was a standout meal (not that cheap though).

♦   Buena Carne Bacalar – our very inexpensive wine was from here (we didn’t eat though). 

♦  Restaurante Sazon a la Mexicana Bacalar – a  charming, good value, traditional restaurant

WORD OF WARNING - Los Rapidos Bacalar

One of the most ‘Instagrammable’ places is just south of the lagoon, called Los Rapidos Laguna de Bacalar. Contrary to the positive online reviews, we do not recommend visiting this place. There are many stromatolites in the region which are continually being damaged by irresponsible and inexperienced kayakers and the ecosystems in this region are being degraded by visitors’ sunscreen. The staff don’t exactly care about the rules either – we saw some pretty terrible things. Also, it’s loud, busy and not exactly chill!

GETTING FROM CANCUN TO BACALAR

From Cancun Centro to the bus station in Bacalar, the direct ADO bus takes 5 hours and 40 minutes. There are 15 or more departures throughout the day. The AU (Autobuses Unidos) services are slightly cheaper but normally don’t have a toilet onboard (still run by ADO and depart from the same place).  

Alternatively, you can drive which takes around four hours on very straightforward roads.

CALAKMUL (1-2 NIGHTS)

Calakmul is the biggest and best Mayan ruin in the entire of central America, behind only Guatemala’s Tikal in our opinion. 

The small town of Xpujil, in Campeche State, is the most logical place to stay for your visit to Calakmul. It is a simple 90-minute drive from Bacalar, through continually thicker and thicker jungle (but great quality roads). 

To reach the ruins of Calakmul from Xpujil, is an easy two-hour drive, ever deeper into the overgrown and wild jungle. It’s just 30 kilometres from the border with Guatemala when the entrance to the ruins comes into view. 

The entire region is contained within a biosphere reserve, so your chances of seeing all sorts of wildlife is exceptionally high, far better than at other Mayan ruins (or anywhere across the Yucatan Peninsula in fact). We even saw a jaguar!

There are more logistical details for visiting this epic Mayan ruin in our separate post about visiting Calakmul .

You may need to stay two nights if you are travelling by bus. There are daily but infrequent ADO buses and lots of collectivos that run this route. However, with a car, there are more opportunities to set off early and be more flexible.

CAMPECHE CITY (2-3 Nights)

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Campeche City, also known as San Francisco de Campeche, is an overlooked gem on the western coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Few international visitors come here, which is a huge shame for them!

The impeccably preserved, baroque colonial city situated on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico still has original Spanish built walls, intended to safeguard from pirates. Inside, the fortified urban centre is exquisitely beautiful, with quiet, colourful streets and a beautiful zocalo which has light shows and entertainment in the evenings. The purpose-built pedestrian walkways along the seafront (the Malecon) are excellent for a long evening wander while watching the sunset.

A major highlight of the region are the Mayan ruins of Edzna. Around 45 minutes away by bus or car from Campeche City, these almost unknown ruins are an unforgettable experience. We’ve written a detailed guide to visiting Edzna if you’re interested.

ARRIVING IN CAMPECHE CITY BY BUS

Unlike all the other cities and towns you may visit across this Yucatan itinerary, the bus station in Campeche City is a reasonable distance from the historic city centre. It’s not super far, maybe a 35-40 minute walk, but Campeche gets hot so you may not fancy this in the middle of the day with baggage! It’s also probably not the best plan to walk this route alone late at night with all your stuff (it’s pretty safe, i’m just being cautious).

Taxis don’t really hang around the bus station as much as in other cities, which is a refreshing change to not be hassled. This does mean that you will occasionally have to wait a short while for a taxi to show up. You can walk out to the road and flag one down too. The cost should be about 30-40 pesos.

Small minibuses also run the route to centro, however i’m not sure if there is any schedule! These cost less than 10 pesos.

Accommodation in COLONIAL CITIES

Imagine you are planning your Yucatan itinerary, pouring over images of beautiful Mexican streets, full of classic colonial architecture. You develop a romantic notion of staying in one of those colourful buildings with exquisite courtyards, the ones you see in photographs and on hotel websites. However, this is not always the reality!

In many colonial cities in Mexico, you must pay a significant premium to get a view or much daylight in your hotel room. Most accommodation is in old buildings with internal courtyards – so you often get a slightly damp room with little/no sunshine or privacy, surrounding a small open-air centre. If you are lucky, maybe a room overlooking an often-busy road. The internet is frequently appalling in these buildings, plus the pictures on hotel portals we found to be hugely misleading too.

In San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas, we viewed 24 rooms across 12 hotels before we found one with natural light, a window and no damp that was mildly quiet. The internet did not stretch to the room though – you can’t win everything!

Rooms with elegant, historic architecture in central locations also come at a price. Many of them are claustrophobic, damp and dark. However, we are always on a budget, so if you are happy to part with more cash than us, you can get some fabulous rooms! Try to get ones with a balcony if you can – it guarantees a certain amount of daylight. The other option is to look for purpose-built, modern hotels, but they tend to be further away from the city centres and not local owned, which we do not recommend. Try to keep your money local whenever possible!

MERIDA (3-5 NIGHTS)

Merida is the capital of Yucatan State and the largest city on the Peninsula. Despite its size, this colourful colonial city exudes charm and feels quietly modest and unpretentious. It is also a major hub for cuisine, drinks and culture; there’s museums, exciting foodie markets and distinctive shopping. The city even shuts down the prettiest roads on Sundays just for cyclists.

As a city with over a million people, Merida also has lots of amenities and services you won’t find elsewhere, like shopping malls, large cinemas, various big supermarkets and more. This makes it a great place to stock up if you need to buy anything and just chill out for a couple of days.

Outside of the city, there are some of the prettiest cenotes in the Yucatan, tranquil beach towns, flamingos and the incredibly ornate Mayan ruins of Uxmal. 

Along with Calakmul, Uxmal is our top recommendation for Mayan ruins in the Yucatan region. We’ve written a full guide to the Uxmal ruins if you are considering a visit. 

The beach towns around Merida range from the popular port city of Progreso, to the tiny fishing villages of Sisal and Celestun. With beautiful sandy beaches, friendly restaurants and only a fraction of the tourism that the Riviera Maya receives, they’re all a great addition to your Yucatan itinerary.

We’ve written in detail about activities in and around Merida in a separate post.

GETTING FROM CAmpeche TO Merida

To get from Campeche City to Merida, it is a straightforward 2.5-hour journey via either ADO bus or rental vehicle. There are at least 20 daily bus departures, plus the bus station in Merida is right in the centre so it’s even easier to navigate to your next lodging (make sure you get a bus to ADO Centro Historico TAME station in Merida – this is the central one).  

VALLODOLID (2-4 NIGHTS)

Vallodolid is the sweetheart of the Yucatan. A small colonial city surrounding a beautiful central square, most well-known for being the gateway to the World Heritage site of Chichen Itza and some of the more famous cenotes.

This vibrant city isn’t just about World Wonders and Instagrammable cenotes though. It has a character all its own and is surprisingly untouched by tourism considering the proximity to one of our planet’s most celebrated sites. The accommodation is incredibly good value and there’s every type of restaurant and bar you could wish for. 

Ek’ Balam, one of the more exhilarating Mayan ruins, is only a short distance away from Vallodolid. Do not miss this one if you are a ruins enthusiast like us! You can climb all the structures and the views from the top are some of the finest of any site. We thoroughly recommend Ek’ Balam over Chichen Itza – it’s a much more pleasant experience (and slightly cheaper).

Cenotes in the region include the made-popular-by-Instagram Cenote Suytun, Cenote Zaci (currently being renovated though in 2022), Cenote Saamal, Dzitnup and San Lorenzo Oxman. They are all pretty touristy compared with most around Merida, so we suggest you focus your cenote days there if you’d like one to yourself!

HOTELS IN VALLODOLID

Our lodging recommendation is Margarett Modern , a surprisingly good-value hotel (at least during covid times anyway). Situated just off the centre square, it provides free water, modern rooms and a small pool, all for half the cost of most other hotels in the area. If you want something a little more upmarket, check out Casa Tia Micha or Le Muuch Hotel Boutique (this one is particularly stunning!). 

There are some super spectacular places to stay further out from the city if you have a car. For a seriously unique hotel, check out the Hotel Zentik Project and Saline Cave.

RIO LAGARTOS - OPTIONAL EXTRA (1-2 NIGHTS)

Rio Lagartos is a tiny fishing village on the northern coast of the Yucatan. It is the premier region to see the best birds of the Yucatan, including thousands of flamingos in the right season. It’s also known for the super-pink Mexico salt lakes at Las Colorados.

We absolutely recommend this optional detour on our Yucatan itinerary; it was another highlight of our trip. I’m not sure what we liked most; wading through questionable mud to find flamingos, spotting crocodiles and huge pelicans, covering ourselves in (apparently) healing mud or visiting the crazy pink salt pools. 

There are a few cute restaurants with excellent, super-fresh seafood, local basketball games in the centre of the village and lovely walks along the promenade. We also saw the prettiest sunrise of our entire trip here.

To reach Rio Lagartos, you can hire a car from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen or Merida, or catch an ADO bus to Tizimin and grab a quick collectivo from there. It is possible to visit here from Vallodolid after going to Ek’ Balam as they are in the same direction, but it could be a long day!

There is no doubt that the best place to stay is the Hotel Rio Lagartos . It’s pretty nice looking with nice views from the top (we had a wander around). Our choice was the Hotel Tabasco Rio , which was simple, quiet, clean and very cheap for us at the time. The staff even let us know we had left our camera behind, which was hugely appreciated.

The BEST YUCATAN BEACHES (4-5 Nights)

So, by this point on your Yucatan backpacking adventure or road trip, you may fancy a conventional beach getaway. Deciding where the best Yucatan beaches and dive locations are is a contentious issue though. We recommend you visit either Isla Holbox, Isla Mujeres or Cozumel depending on what type of vibe is more your cup of tea. We’ve listed some thoughts further down to help you design your Yucatan itinerary. 

After as much beach time as you can fit in, it’s an easy commute to the airport in Cancun (especially from Isla Mujeres). 

You could always include all three of these Yucatan beaches on your itinerary if you have time. Cozumel could be added right at the start of your trip, immediately after landing in Cancun.

As mentioned above, we recommend avoiding the beaches at Playa Del Carmen, Cancun and especially Tulum due to overtourism and environmental concerns (particularly during the high season between December and April). Plus, they are devoid of any character or soul.

ISLA HOLBOX

This beautiful stretch of land is fantastic for anyone backpacking the Yucatan, looking for more chill backpacker vibes with a splash of party. It is further from Cancun, so takes slightly longer to get there (although not difficult at all) and has more rustic accommodation (not particularly cheap though!). Isla Holbox definitely has some of the Yucatan’s best beaches with the least number of tourists.

To reach Isla Holbox, get an ADO bus to Chiquila, the port town where it is easy to catch a short boat across. If you have a car, either return it to Cancun then get the bus, or you can drive to Chiquila where there are private places (often people’s houses!) that you can pay a little park.

ISLA MUJERES

Isla Mujeres is ideal for families, anyone fancying some upmarket lodging or fantastic snorkelling and diving. It is a tiny island situated right next to Cancun (this means it can get busy sometimes with day trippers) so is very easy to access and makes for a quick getaway to catch your flight home.

It’s so easy to reach Isla Mujeres, at only 8 miles away from Cancun, accessed by a 30-minute ferry. They run all day from around 5.30am until mid-evening. The ferry port is called Puerto Juarez, just north of the city, and is less than 10 minutes away by car from Cancun Centro. The public bus R-1 also goes to Puerto Juarez for about 9 Mexican pesos, or you can grab a taxi for 150-200 pesos.

Cozumel, a little further south, is just offshore from Playa Del Carmen and is another solid Yucatan beach alternative. It’s a much larger island, so there is more to see and do, with epic snorkelling right off the beaches. It’s common to get around via golf-buggy, which can be quite expensive. Cruises also stop in Cozumel, so be mindful of the possibility of crowds – this is the worst pick of the three in terms of sustainable, responsible travel.

From Playa Del Carmen, ferries run regularly throughout the day, take about 35-45 minutes and pick you up right in downtown. It’s a super-easy journey.

SARGASSUM in CANCUN AND AROUND

Be cautious when organising a trip to a beach destination on the Maya Riviera. 

During certain months, the beaches get completely covered in a gross, smelly seaweed that really could put a bit of a downer on the beach part of your itinerary. When you see photos of those pristine Tulum beaches, that’s only during certain times of the year! The seaweed problem occurs between April and October, with the worst likely to be during the summer months of May to August. Check online for the current sargassum status .

The beach towns over towards Merida do not suffer from the same sargassum issues, so consider visiting those instead during this part of the year.

FLIGHTS TO THE YUCATAN

We exclusively book our flights through Skyscanner . It’s the cheapest way to book flights from anywhere in the world.

If you book your flights to the Yucatan through our link below, we make a tiny commission that helps to keep this site running, at zero cost to you. Thank you!

FINAL THOUGHTS - Yucatan ITinerary

This Yucatan itinerary provides an extensive, hugely diverse road trip or backpacking experience. It includes Mayan ruins, colonial cities and small fishing communities; unique wildlife, including primates, many birds of the Yucatan and even big cats, in their natural habitats. There are abundant world class, picture-perfect beaches in the Yucatan to suit every taste. Thousands of cenotes dot the terrain, many with zero visitors. It’s a fantastic place!

The recommendations on this itinerary are some of our favourite places. We loved losing the crowds around this stunning part of Mexico. When it comes to road trips in Mexico, this is easily up there with the best!

Leave us a comment if you have any feedback or suggestions! We hope you have the most amazing trip!

2 thoughts on “The Perfect Less-Touristy Yucatan Itinerary”

Hello! We are doing exactly the itinerary as a roadtrip in Yucatan with my family in January next year. Thanks for so much info, it looks great!. I’ve got a question though: Where did you spend the night after Calakmul? Did you go back to Xpujil? Asking because everyone advices us not to drive when its dark, so we won’t make it to Campeche after visiting Calakmul and Xpujil would technically be going backwards… thanks in advance, G

Hi! Lovely to hear from you 🙂

I think we went straight to Campeche and got in as it was getting dark. If you get in before six, it will still be light. Driving is okay in the evening/twilight if you are on main roads or in cities (we did this many times).

If you won’t be out of Calakmul in time, the area around Conhaus/La Selva at the junction to the Calakmul turn-off on the 186 has several decent accommodation options.

I hope you have an incredible trip!

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2 Weeks in Mexico: Ultimate Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary

Are you visiting Mexico for the first time and looking for the perfect Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary?

We’ve put together a 14-day Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary that covers the popular attractions, Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Towns), and some hidden gems.

Mexico is one of the best countries in the world, with its fascinating culture and history, heavenly food, ancient Mayan Ruins, mystical cenotes, and tropical beaches.

A Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip is the best way to explore Chichen Itza , the Yellow City of Izamal , the best cenotes near Valladolid, the Lagoon of Seven Colors in Bacalar, and Tulum’s Instagrammable places .

Our Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary includes the best places to visit, how to get there, where to stay, and the best things to do. You’ll also find all the useful tips and information you need to plan your Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring travel guides.

Hi! We are Dittus & Máté

Yucatan peninsula itinerary by ado bus, best hotels in cancun, best hotels in valladolid, mexico, best hotels in merida, best hotels in bacalar, best hotels in tulum, best cenotes in tulum, no time to read now pin it.

Where is the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula is located southeast of Mexico, between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.

The Yucatan Peninsula is Mexico’s most visited area, a vast coastal region with many things to do.

Most people know the Yucatan Peninsula as just Yucatan, which is misleading as the Peninsula is made up of three Mexican states: Yucatan, Campeche, and Quintana Roo.

Recommended post → Best Places to Visit Yucatan Peninsula

Merida is the capital of the Yucatan, Chetumal is the capital of Quintana Roo and San Francisco de Campeche is the capital of Campeche.

Popular Yucatan Peninsula resort destinations, such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum , are in Quintana Roo.

Did you know that the Yucatan Peninsula is home to Mexico’s famous Mayan Riviera?

Cancun is the perfect place to start your Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary.

See also → Best Things to Do in Bacalar

How to Get to the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula is easy to reach, and there are several ways to get there. Depending on where you want to start your Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary, there are a few international airports from which to choose.

International airports in the Yucatan Peninsula

• Cancun International Airport (CUN)
• Merida International Airport (MID)
• Cozumel International Airport (CZM)
• Chetumal International Airport (CTM)

TIP Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights to Mexico.

If you are staying in Mexico City or can get a cheaper connection from there. You can fly first to Mexico City International Airport (airport code MEX) and then to Cancun. It takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to fly from Mexico City to Cancun.

Most travelers to Mexico arrive at Cancun International Airport, as you can get cheap flights to Cancun. There are many direct flights to Cancun from Mexico City, Europe, the U.S., and other international countries.

If you like our content and we’ve helped you with our free travel guide, please consider supporting what we do. Thank you.

How to Get Around the Yucatan Peninsula

The best way to get around the Yucatan Peninsula is to rent a car or take an ADO bus. For nearby attractions or day trips, you can join a group or private tour, travel by taxi or Colectivo (shared minivan), or rent a bike.

TIP If you want to book bus tickets or transfers, use  Bookaway.

Rent a car and make the most of your Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary!

See also → Things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula

Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary by car

We did this 14-day Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary by rental car and enjoyed exploring the sights at our own pace. We have a complete guide to safe car rental in Mexico, which includes how to avoid Mexican scams and some Yucatan Peninsula driving tips.

Recommended post → Before Renting a Car in Mexico, You Need to Know

The driving will make this Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary much easier and more flexible.

During our travels, we always use  Discover Cars  for car rentals. Because they always offer the best deals and provide free cancellation 48 hours before your reservation.

Car rental will cost around 30-35 USD per day, which included full insurance.

Book your car in advance to get the best price! Check car rental prices and availability  HERE.

Public transport in Yucatan and Quintana Roo is excellent, and you can easily get from one place to another. ADO is the largest and most popular bus company in Mexico.

The Mexican ADO buses are safe, air-conditioned, comfortable, and cheap.

Get Bus Tickets here.

TIP ADO buses are usually quite cold due to the air conditioning, so you should bring a pullover.

Best Time to Visit the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula has a tropical climate, hot and humid all year round. February and April are ideal months for a Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary.

The best time to visit the Yucatan Peninsula is between December and April. This period is the dry season, with pleasant temperatures and little rainfall.

However, these months are also the peak season in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, which means high prices and crowds.

TIP In high season, we strongly recommend booking accommodation and tours in advance.

Read more → One Day in the Yellow City

In May, the temperatures are hotter, and heavy rains can occur. But if you are traveling on a budget, it is the perfect month to visit Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

The rainy and hurricane season usually starts in June and ends in October.

Good to know Plan your trip for early November if you want to enjoy the Día de Muertos celebrations (Day of the Dead in Mexico).

Do I need a Visa to travel to Mexico?

Probably not. Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, Australia, or Europe don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico.

When you arrive in Mexico and go through Customs and Immigration, you will be issued a maximum 180-day (6-month) FMM tourist card.

Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Mexico and apply for an e-visa online.

You can enter Mexico without a Covid-19 vaccination or a negative PCR test. However, always check the entry requirements!

Is the Yucatan Peninsula Safe?

The Yucatan Peninsula is one of the safest destinations in Mexico. However , some areas of Mexico are still worth avoiding because they are not safe! We found driving in the Yucatan Peninsula safe and easy, so we highly recommend renting a car in Cancun, Mexico .

We did our 2-week Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary by car, and it was safe to travel in Mexico, but always be careful.

Small thefts can happen like in any other country. So take care of your valuables, don’t show your expensive camera, and don’t leave your smartphone or passport in the car!

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance! We always choose  SafetyWing  for our travels.

Mexican scams are common in popular cities such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. But the chances of kidnappings and drug cartel deals are minimal, so don’t worry about safety on the Yucatan Peninsula.

There are many checkpoints between cities, lots of police cars in the tourist areas, and unlike the city centers, there are few cars on the highways.

In our experience, Mexican people are very kind.

Good to know You shouldn’t drink tap water in Mexico!

Read more→ The most common scams in Mexico

How Much Does it Cost to Visit the Yucatan Peninsula?

Mexico is a cheap country, but its popularity and luxury resorts make the Yucatan Peninsula more expensive than some other parts of Mexico.

Budget travelers will spend around 40-65 USD per day. Depending on the mode of transport you will be using to travel around the country, which accommodation you prefer, and how much you are willing to pay for restaurants.

TIP Save money, avoid ATM transaction fees when going abroad, and pay in local currency with a Wise Card.

Recommended post → Best Cenotes near Tulum

Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary Map

The Ultimate 2-Week Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary

Day 1: arrive in cancun.

Welcome to Mexico! Hola! We hope you had a great flight and are ready to explore the charming Yucatan Peninsula .

Cancun is the best place to start your Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary, as there are cheap and direct flights to Cancun.

Once you arrive at Cancun International Airport, you can easily rent a car at the airport or pick up your pre-booked car.

See also → How to Renting a Car in Mexico

Depending on when you arrive in Cancun, you can choose to continue your trip to Valladolid or spend one night in Cancun. We don’t recommend that you drive at night!

You can take a private or shared airport shuttle and taxi to reach downtown Cancun or the Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone). It is good to know that Uber is not available in Cancun!

Book an airport transfer to Cancun Hotel Zone & Downtown Hotels.

The travel time is 40 minutes, and the shuttle starts from 11 USD per person.

As our flight arrived in Cancun in the evening, we decided to pick up our car on arrival. Then, we stayed at an apartment close to the airport and traveled to Valladolid the next day. In Cancun, we stayed in the Suites Rivera , only a 10-minute drive from the airport.

If you are traveling by car, you should download an offline map and get a local sim card to drive to your hotel without any problems. There is no SIM card vendor at Cancun Airport, but you can get one at any OXXO shop.

Buy an eSIM and data package for Mexico.

TIP We recommend you buy the Telcel SIM card as the internet was excellent during our 2-week trip.

Recommended post → How to Get from Cancun to Valladolid

Where to Stay in Cancun

Cancun has some luxury hotels, but accommodation options are available for all budgets. These are our recommendations.

• Luxury:   Oleo Cancun Playa Boutique
• Mid-Range:   Cancun Plaza  or  Bed and Breakfast Pecarí
• Budget:   Suites Malecon Cancun

Day 2: Travel to Valladolid

Good morning! It’s time to start your Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary! Check out from your hotel, have breakfast, and travel to Valladolid by car or bus.

From Cancun to Valladolid, the journey time by car is 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic.

The 180D highway connecting Cancun and Valladolid is a toll road costing 385 MXN (21 USD). They don’t accept credit cards or dollars, so make sure you bring enough Mexican pesos! 

Read more →   Valladolid Guide

There are no ATMs and few petrol stations between Cancun and the highway. This road is very well-maintained, comfortable, and safe to drive on.

The bus ticket from Cancun to Valladolid start from 22 USD.  Book your bus tickets  HERE.

Once you arrive in the colorful colonial town of Valladolid, check in to your hotel. Afterward, have lunch at one of the authentic restaurants or try the street food, which is delicious and cheap.

Then, explore the city of Valladolid, walk along the Calzada de Los Frailes, see the cathedral, visit the monastery of San Bernardino de Siena, and swim in the Cenote Zaci.

Where to Stay in Valladolid

There are many places to stay in Valladolid, from budget-friendly hostels to boutique or luxury hotels. These are our recommendations.

• Luxury:   Oriundo Luxury Nature Villas
• Mid-Range:   Hotel Waye  or  Meson del Marques
• Budget:   Hotel Casa Bamboo

Day 3: Visit Chichen Itza – A highlight of your Yucatan Itinerary

The most popular destination in Mexico is Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Plan your Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary to allow enough time to explore the famous Mayan Ruins.

Chichen Itza is only a 50-minute drive from Valladolid. Alternatively, you can  book a bus  from Valladolid to Chichen Itza for just 10 USD.

We suggest arriving in the morning because you can avoid the crowds of tourists and enjoy a stroll around the ruins without the burning sun.

Read the full post →   Ultimate Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza

TIP Don’t forget to buy Mexican souvenirs! We visited many places on the Yucatan Peninsula, but Chichen Itza had the best souvenirs.

After Chichen Itza, you should visit Cenote Ik Kil, which is about a 10-minute drive away.

Cenote Ik Kil is a beautiful open cenote with long tendrils of vines and green plants that offer fantastic photo opportunities. Take a few photos from above and then go down and swim or jump into the turquoise water from the platforms.

For the best experience, book your Chichen Itza and Cenote day trips via  Viator  or  GetYourGuide.

Day 4: Exploring Valladolid

Valladolid was one of our favorite places on our Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary. If you are looking for where to stay in the Yucatan Peninsula, the best choice is Valladolid.

Mexico’s magical town (Pueblo Mágico) is a great starting point to visit places like Chichen Itza, the Yellow City of Izamal, Cenote Suytun, Ek Balam, and Las Coloradas.

Recommended post → How to Spend 3-Days in Valladolid

Start your day with a short visit to Uayma, just 20 minutes from Valladolid. After that, you can visit the stunning cenotes around Valladolid. We recommend that after Uayma, you go to Cenote Suytun as it is less crowded in the morning.

Cenote Suytun is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Book your  Cenote Suytun entrance ticket.

Did you know that Cenote Suytun is one of the most photographed places in Mexico?

See also → Best Cenotes near Valladolid

Then go to the Cenote Oxman and have lunch there, then visit the other beautiful cenotes around Valladolid or spend your time in the town center.

Enjoy traditional Mexican dancing in Valladolid’s main square, shop from street vendors, and see the beautiful church.

See also → Things to in the Yucatan Peninsula

Day 5: Visit Izamal and Merida

It’s time to say goodbye to Valladolid and continue your Mexico trip. Our next destination on the Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary is the Yellow City of Izamal.

I zamal is only a 1.5-hour drive from Valladolid, and as you can explore in a few hours, it is well worth a visit.

Spend a short time in Izamal, climb the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid, walk the yellow streets, visit the Convento De San Antonio de Padua, and shop in the local market.

Recommended post → How to Visit Izamal

After exploring Izamal and taking lots of Insta-worthy photos on the streets of Izamal, drive on to Merida.

Merida is the capital of Yucatan state, the perfect place for digital nomads and budget travelers. But there is no shortage of expensive restaurants, trendy boutiques, parties, and popular events.

When visiting Merida, you’ll see that it mixes historic colonial buildings with modern neighborhoods, making it a different experience from Izamal or Valladolid.

Read the full post → Best Things to Do in Merida

Good to know You can get from Valladolid to Merida by bus. The bus tickets start from 14 USD.

Where to Stay in Merida

Most people only take a short visit to Merida, but for the best experience, it is worth spending 1-2 days there. These are our accommodation recommendations.

• Luxury: Más Palomas Concept House
• Mid-Range: Viva Merida Hotel Boutique or Hotel Santa María Mérida
• Budget: Hotel Caribe Merida Yucatan

Day 6: Travel to Bacalar

Are you ready for the best part of your Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary? Bacalar is a stunning place in Quintana Roo. It is famous for its crystal clear waters and the Lagoon of Seven Colors, known as the Maldives of Mexico.

From Merida to Bacalar, the journey time by car is 4.5-5 hours, depending on traffic. Since you’re about to take a long trip, read our driving tips for the Yucatan Peninsula .

Depending on when you arrive in Bacalar, try to catch the sunset at one of the docks (balnearios).

Recommended post → Best Things to Do in Bacalar

Where to Stay in Bacalar

Bacalar has some luxury hotels, but accommodation options are available for all budgets. These are our recommendations.

• Luxury:   Hotel Amainah Bacalar
• Mid-Range:   Hotel Aldea 19 Bacalar  or  Hotel Makaabá Eco-Boutique
• Budget:   Xibalba in town hostel

Day 7: Bacalar Lagoon Sailing Tour

A sailing trip is the best way to explore the beautiful Bacalar Lagoon.

The Bacalar sailing tour takes about 3 hours, depending on the weather conditions. When we did the sailing tour, we had great windy weather, which was ideal for the activity.

The sailing tour starts from 42 USD per person.

You can book your Bacalar Sailing tours online through  Viator  or  GetYourGuide , where you can get the best prices.

On the way, we stopped several times at beautiful places where we could swim, snorkel, or sunbathe on the boat.

After the sailing tour, have lunch and visit the most beautiful cenotes of Bacalar. Spend a few chilling hours at the Cenote Cocalitos, swim and snorkel, or enjoy hanging a hammock.

Book Bacalar Cenotes Tour.

Day 8: Los Rapidos – A popular place  on your Yucatan Itinerary

Visiting Los Rapidos is one of the best things to do in Bacalar. The crystal clear waters in different shades of blue and impressive stromatolites make it the best place to visit on the Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary.

You can swim in the beautiful blue lagoon, snorkel, and rent kayaks at Los Rapidos. There is a great restaurant where you can eat delicious Mexican food or reserve a sun lounger to enjoy the scenery.

Los Rapidos is about 15 minutes from the center of Bacalar, and you can easily visit it by taxi, colectivo, or car.

You can combine a visit to Los Rapidos with Laguna Bonanza, where you can picnic, swim, and snorkel in crystal clear water.

Recommended post → Guide to Los Rapidos

Day 9: Chilling Out in Bacalar

On this day, visit Fort San Felipe and then spend the day relaxing. At Fort San Felipe, you can learn about the Bacalar’s history and enjoy the fantastic views of the Bacalar Lagoon.

You can rent a kayak and paddle across the lagoon to the shipwreck at the  Piratas Channel  (Canal de Los Piratas) or chill out at one of the beach clubs in Bacalar.

The Blúe Beach Club offers delicious meals and drinks, tropical backdrops, and fantastic photo opportunities.

TIP Laguna Bonanza is a hidden gem in Bacalar, so don’t skip it on your Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary.

Day 10: Travel to Tulum

Continue your Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary to Tulum, one of Mexico’s most visited places. From Bacalar to Tulum, the journey takes around 2.5-3 hours, depending on traffic. To make the most of your day, we recommend visiting the Muyil Ruins and Coba Ruins on the way.

Join Sian Ka’an and Muyil Ruins Tour.

Then, it’s time to get that famous Tulum vibe. Stroll around the charming streets, and in the afternoon, visit Palma Central for a fantastic atmosphere, delicious food, and cold drinks.

Read our → Tulum Guide

Where to Stay in Tulum

When you have a car, we suggest you book your hotel outside Tulum. For those who want to enjoy the nightlife or explore Tulum without a car, we recommend staying near the town center or Tulum Beach.

Tulum has some luxury hotels, but accommodation options are available for all budgets. These are our recommendations.

• Luxury:   Casa Malca
• Mid-Range:   Maka Hotel Boutique  or  Coco Tulum Zen Zone Hotel
• Budget:   Cenotes Casa Tortuga Tulum

Day 11: Discover Tulum Instagram Spots

Good morning Tulum! One of the best things to do on the Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary is to discover the best Instagram spot in Tulum.

Join a Tulum Instagram Photo Tour.

You can rent a bike and discover the most beautiful places in Tulum. Bike rental at Tulum Beach is 15 USD for 24 hours.

We don’t recommend visiting Tulum Beach by car, as parking is expensive and spaces fill up quickly.

We’ve put together a complete guide to Tulum’s best Instagrammable spots , with tips and a map to help you plan your Tulum Itinerary.

Day 12: Best Cenotes near Tulum

Our Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary gives you a full day to explore the most beautiful cenotes in Tulum.

If you want to visit them all, probably 1 day is not enough, as they are all so gorgeous (and some are expensive), so it is not worth taking a short time.

Join a Cenotes Tour.

• Gran Cenote
• Cenote Aktun-Ha
• Cenote Calavera
• Cenote Azul
• Cenote Dos Ojos
• Cenote Zacil-Ha
• Cenotes Casa Tortuga Tulum

Recommended post → Best Cenotes in Tulum

Day 13: Chill Out in Tulum

As this is your last day in Tulum, we recommend you visit the attractions you missed or spend the day relaxing on Tulum’s beautiful beaches.

Our favorite beach in Tulum was Playa Xpu-Ha. But Akumal, Playa Ruinas, and Playa Paraiso are also worth a visit.

Go to a restaurant and eat delicious Mexican food, or go shopping. Tulum has many places to shop for fashionable dresses, handcrafted gifts, and souvenirs.

See also → Top Things to Do in Tulum

Day 14: Return to Cancun or Continue your Yucatan Itinerary

It’s time to leave Mexico! Our Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary ends where it began. Go back to Cancun Airport, return the car, and fly home.

TIP If you want to book bus tickets or transfers from Tulum to Cancun, use Bookaway.

We hope you enjoyed your visit to Mexico. This Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary includes many things to do. But you cannot visit all of the Yucatan Peninsula attractions in two weeks.

However, if you have more time than 14 days in Mexico, here are some additional destinations you can add to your Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary!

• Playa del Carmen
• Isla Mujeres
• Isla Holbox

We hope our two-week Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary will help you plan your next trip to Mexico. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comments below.

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com Car Rentals – Discover Cars Flights – Skyscanner Travel Insurance – SafetyWing Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide Bus/Transfer – Bookaway

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2 thoughts on “2 weeks in mexico: ultimate yucatan peninsula itinerary”.

Very impressive detailed itinerary. For a 14 day road trip. I plan to print it out and take with me. Along with printing out information about all the details of the towns and side trips

We are happy you like it! Take care and enjoy your trip to Mexico!

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Road Trip through Yucatán in Mexico: Our 3 Week Travel Itinerary

Mysterious Mayan Ruins. Paradise Caribbean beaches. Turquoise blue Cenotes. No doubt about it: the Mexican peninsula of Yucatán sure knows how to impress. For three weeks, we made way around the Yucatán Peninsula with our rental car.

Which stops are worthwhile? Which destinations should you leave out if you are tight for time? Where can you find secret locations and insider tips? Is there an ideal route? And how safe is it to travel by rental car through the Yucatán region in Mexico? What should you watch out for? We’ve put all of our tips in this blog post so you can prepare the perfect itinerary for your Yucatán road trip.

1. Our Yucatán Itinerary: All Destinations and Info

2. by car through the yucatán: travel tips & facts, 3. booking a rental car in mexico: our tips.

First of all, to avoid future possible confusion, we have to tell you that: “Yucatán” refers to both the state of Yucatán and the entire peninsula (“Yucatán Peninsula”), which consists exactly of the three states – Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Campeche (which is also shown on the map above). Our itinerary passes through all three states.

Arrival and Departure Airport: Cancún

Cancún Airport is the largest airport on the Yucatán Peninsula. Most international flights arrive or depart from here. We did not actually see anything in Cancún except the airport as we came across too many negative reviews about the hotel-bunker-strewn Cancún beaches, which put us off.

Shortly after our arrival, we drove our rental car from Cancún airport to Tulum. Tulum is one of the most popular seaside resorts along the Riviera Maya. We deliberately chose a more touristy place as the first stop on our road trip. The reason: We wanted to give ourselves time to get used to the new country and in a place with good infrastructure . For example, we got our Mexican SIM card here in Tulum.

It was not love at first sight between us and Tulum, but over time we did warm up to the place. The beaches and the Mayan ruins on the cliffs were very exciting and very impressive. But overall, we found the direction of the tourism in Tulum rather unsettling. In Tulum, the word “Instagram Hotspot” takes on a whole new meaning. The fact that Tulum is so popular is also reflected in the price level. Tulum was the most expensive stop on our entire tour.

Arrival from Cancún to Tulum: The route runs through well-developed roads. Don’t worry, if your flight arrives in the afternoon: We drove in the dark ourselves and did not reach Tulum until around 8pm. That was no problem at all on this road. The journey takes just under 2 hours .

Our accommodation: Biwa Tulum Detailed blog article: Tulum Travel Guide Recommended stay: 3-5 nights (we stayed 4 nights)

We went further south to the small, cozy place of Bacalar, which is located on a turquoise blue lake . The fascinating shades of blue and turquoise gave the lake its nickname the “Lagoon of Seven Colours” .

The bad news: There is not much to do around here. The good news: This is not entirely true, because you are surrounded by shimmering blue waters which also happens to be swimmable. If you want to relax for a few days, you are in good hands here in Bacalar.

Getting from Tulum to Bacalar: From Tulum you can reach Bacalar after about 2.5 hours by car . Our tip: Best to fill up the car (with petrol) while still in Tulum. There is also a remote petrol station on the way, but you’d rather not have to rely on that.

Our Accommodation: Hotel Aires Bacalar Detailed blog article: Bacalar Travel Tips Recommended stay: 2 nights (unfortunately we only stayed 1 night)

Xpujil (Calakmul & Becán)

From Bacalar we went inland to the tiny town of Xpujil. Xpujil is the ideal base from which to explore the fascinating Mayan Ruins of Becán and Calakmul . Both ruins are still comparatively untouched by mass tourism.

While Becán is easily accessible (almost right next to the main road), the mysterious Calakmul is in the middle of the deepest jungle far away from any civilisation. Both ruins are among the most impressive we visited on our road trip through the Yucatán.

Getting from Bacalar to Xpujil: Xpujil is accessible from Bacalar in less than 2 hours. Parts of the road along this route are not in very good condition… so get ready for some potholes! Incidentally, you only pass by a few towns/villages, as the region is very sparsely populated. Heads up: There is a time zone difference of one hour between the states of Quintana Roo and Campeche – so you gain an hour on the way to Bacalar.

Our Accommodation recommendation : Casa Ka´an Detailed blog article: Calakmul & Becán Recommended stay: 1 night (enough to visit both ruins)

The cozy colonial town of Campeche had us besotted from the very first moment. Although you will not find any impressive sights here, the lifestyle and the atmosphere of the city is just fantastic. There is no sign of mass tourism here: Campeche has retained a very authentic charm.

Incidentally, the pastel-coloured, beautifully renovated house fronts make for a popular photo motif. Along certain streets, Campeche looks like a Mexican picture book city .

Getting from Xpujil to Campeche: This stretch is one of the longest of the entire journey. Overall, you are travelling for about 4 hours . There are only a few major locations along the route. Often you drive through no man’s land. The road conditions in some places are heavily deteriorated, so you definitely need to pay close attention to potholes. The last part of the journey is back on the highway (Toll fee: 72 Pesos).

Our accommodation: Casa Mazejuwi Detailed Blog Article: Campeche Tips Recommended stay: 2-3 nights (we stayed 2 and found it perfect)

Mérida is the capital in the State of Yucatán. Unsurprisingly, the centre is very vibrant and lively . Mérida is probably the most visited colonial town on the Yucatán peninsula. Meaning: Mérida was more touristic than we expected. Nevertheless, we liked it very much: The various colourful streets and the colonial flair are just too beautiful.

From Mérida, there are some great day trips you can do: For example, there are the Mayan ruins of Uxmal, the flamingo colonies in Celestún or a visit to the “yellow city” of Izmal.

Travelling from Campeche to Mérida: It takes about 2 hours by car from Campeche to Mérida. However, we decided to visit the Mayan Ruins of Uxmal on the way to Mérida. Although the Ruins of Uxmal was not exactly on our route to Mérida, we found the detour very worthwhile.

Our accommodation: Viva Merida Detailed blog article: Merida Sights & Tips Recommended stay: 3 nights (which is what we did)

Chichén Itzá

To go on a Yucatán trip without seeing the World Wonder of Chichén Itzá – is practically unthinkable. This famous ruin site is quite a tourist magnet , so we knew that we had to find a way to escape those peak hours. Our alternative? We decided to explore Chichén Itzá at sunrise – an experience we can highly recommend.

Getting from Mérida to Chichén Itzá: Chichén Itzá can be reached in about 1.5 hours by car from Mérida. We took a little detour (+30 minutes) to Izamal on the way. The so-called “yellow city” is very worth seeing.

Our Accommodation: Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows Detailed blog article: Sunrise at Chichén Itzá Recommended stay: 1 night (sufficient for a visit to the ruins and the Cenote of Ik Kil)

Valladolid comes quite close to the idea of ​​a typical Mexican town . We felt right at home here. In our opinion, Valladolid combines the comfort of Campeche and the liveliness of Mérida. Again, there are pretty streets with pastel-coloured colonial houses and cobble stones.

From Valladolid you can also visit some destinations, including the Mayan Ruins of Ek Balam, the pink salt lakes of Las Coloradas and several Cenotes – some of which are very impressive.

Travelling from Chichén Itzá to Valladolid: This was actually the shortest leg of our journey – just 45 minutes by car to Valladolid.

Our accommodation: La Flor Casa Boutique Detailed blog article: Valladolid Tips Recommended stay: 2-3 nights (depending on how many trips you want to do – for us, we stayed 3 nights)

Isla Holbox

Before returning home, we wanted to spend some relaxing days on a Mexican island. We decided on the highly praised Isla Holbox in the north of Yucatán. To be honest, we did not have the best start to our time in Holbox, mainly due to a bad weather front, which turned the supposed paradise into various shades of grey.

In the end, we did warm up to Holbox and we can highly recommend the island to you if you want to switch off for a few days. But do not expect an untouched paradise, as the island’s capital is rather touristic.

Getting from Valladolid to Isla Holbox: First you have to drive by car to Chiquilá (about 2 hours). You then have to leave your car in Chiquilá and pay for parking (100 pesos per 24 hours). Then you take the ferry transfer to Holbox. The boats depart daily from Chiquilá at every hour and every half hour. The journey takes just 15 minutes and costs 200 pesos (one-way). Here, you cross another time zone – this time in the other direction. Coming from Valladolid you “lose” an hour.

Our accommodation recommendation: El Corazón Boutique Hotel Detailed blog article: Isla Holbox Recommended stay: 3-5 nights (we stayed 3 nights)

Playa del Carmen

For us personally, it was a little to “tricky” to travel all the way from Holbox to Cancún Airport in one go (although it is definitely possible in theory). But we stayed for two nights in Playa del Carmen, so that we were at least on the mainland for the day of departure.

To be honest though, the real draw was actually our own curiosity. We wanted to see if Playa del Carmen really did live up to its negative stereotypes of crowded hotel bunker beaches. Our conclusion: Playa del Carmen is definitely not our favourite place on the Yucatán and in our opinion can easily be skipped. We were so glad to have discovered the beach named Xpu-Ha – luckily, we got to enjoy a wonderful last day in Mexico on the beach.

Our accommodation recommendation: Hotel Morgana Detailed blog article: Playa del Carmen Travel Guide Recommended stay: a maximum of 2 nights

Security & Crime: Is It Safe To Travel By Car Through Yucatán?

If you search the Internet for crimes in Mexico , you would probably feel like cancelling the flight immediately. The culprit is the Mexican drug war, which brings the country an absurdly high murder rate. However, only in very rare cases, are tourists involved in these. Plus, the Yucatán Peninsula is one of the regions in Mexico that is considered most safe.

We can only speak from our personal experiences. In the three weeks we spent travelling by car across the Yucatán Peninsula, we had zero negative experiences . Not a single one. Not even remotely. On the contrary, the locals always responded to us in the most hospitable and helpful manner.

But we do not want to downplay anything, because the fact is, there are (very rare) cases of robbery. Therefore, if possible, we recommend that you only drive during the day and avoid driving in the dark . We did not always succeed in this regard either – so do not panic if you do have to drive by car in the evenings.

You should also be aware of the dangers of car burglaries in parking lots. Although you have to be very unlucky for something like that to happen. It goes without saying that valuables should never be left in the car.

Military Checkpoints & Police Checks

Something you have to get used to are the numerous military controls along the roads. It seems quite frightening at first: Men in uniform (usually with a machine gun) controlling the passing cars. Luckily, we were not stopped once. The military is primarily there to detect or prevent drug smugglers and other illegal goods.

Should you be stopped anyway, then it’s worth having Google Translate on hand, unless you speak Spanish.

We read some horror stories about some corrupt police just before our trip. Fortunately, we were spared. When we did encounter police officers, they were always very friendly and helpful. Nevertheless, we recommend that you do not keep all your money in your wallet when travelling around. We really adhere to this – why? Because if you are ever stopped by a corrupt police abusing their power and insisting you pay, then at least you won’t lose all your cash.

Traffic on the roads & road conditions

Good news: In Mexico, they drive on the right ! Therefore, for those who come from Europe and other non-commonwealth countries, you don’t have to change anything. For those who come from the UK, Australia, NZ and other Commonwealth Countries with Left Hand traffic – you have to get used to driving on the opposite side, so be careful and drive mindfully. Outside the cities, there is relatively little to no traffic on these Mexican roads. Be prepared for many narrow one-way streets (but with oncoming traffic).

The speed limits are always well written. On country roads they are usually between 80 and 100 km/h, on highways they are at 110 km/h – but never more.

Beware of potholes! There’s a lot of that on the streets of Yucatán. Some of them are very small, others are gigantic and quite hazardous. Therefore, another reason why would recommend you drive during the day, because it can be dangerous at night, when you can’t spot the potholes in advance.

Special Surprise on the streets of Yucatán: Topes

A very typical sight on Mexican streets, are the abundance of speed bumps – what they call “ topes ” here. They make your driving experience a bumpy affair and you will normally find these topes (speed bumps) especially before and after villages. Topes are – according to the local people – something like the sleeping policemen on the streets of Mexico.

Those we speed over a tope, will certainly not make the same mistake again so soon. Topes are often pointed out and there is usually a sign to warn you (but this is not always the case!). Especially on the outskirts, it’s so important to drive carefully and reduce your speed significantly .

Our (self-proven) tip, if you miss a tope once and come at it with high speed: then shortly before the tope, you should let go off the brakes so that you don’t rush over the speed bump with the brakes pressed. That spares the shock absorbers.

Most of the roads on the Yucatán Peninsula don’t have road tolls (“libre” – free). But the road conditions of these ‘free’ paths are often worse than the tolled roads (“cuota”). Tolled roads are marked with the letter “D” . However, there are not many on the Yucatán peninsula – the most famous is that of Cancún or Playa del Carmen to Mérida.

The tolls are not overly expensive. For example: Valladolid to Chiqilá (Holbox) cost 187 Pesos, and Chiqilá (Holbox) to Playa del Carmen was 107 Pesos. You can often avoid the tolled roads but you do so at the expense of time.

For most places in the Yucatán, finding a free parking space for your car is no problem. The sign for parking in Yucatán is an “ E ” – abbreviated from “Estacionamiento”. A crossed out “E” means parking is prohibited.

In the cities like Campeche and Mérida : when driving in the city centre, you have to pay careful attention to the coloured marking along the sidewalk edge on the ground. If it is marked in yellow, this means no parking. If you do park there, then you risk having your car towed. While we parked in Campeche on the street without any problems – in Mérida, we were advised to park in a supervised, paid car park for safety reasons. Either way, both are possible.

In Tulum Beach (along the Beach Road), it is becoming increasingly difficult to find free parking. We have discussed the problem and how you can get around this in more detail here: Tulum Travel Guide .

The Mayan Ruins often have free parking. But sometimes there is a charge (for example in Uxmal and Coba), but there, the parking is also monitored with security cameras for safety reasons.

Petrol Prices & Fuelling Up

One Litre of Petrol currently costs 20 pesos, which is about 90 cents. The majority of gas stations are state-owned and called PEMEX . Nowadays, you can also find smaller gas station companies. Usually the staff will come and help you fill up , so you simply tell them how much you want to fuel up for and they do it for you. Small tip: Very rarely does it happen, but some petrol stations only accept cash payment.

Do you need to know/speak Spanish?

Yes and no. We both hardly speak a word of Spanish. On our trip to Mexico, we wished that we spoke a little more Spanish so that we could at least converse with the locals. Outside of major tourist destinations such as Playa del Carmen and Tulum, there is often little English spoken on the Yucatán Peninsula.

We recommend that you keep Google Translate (or a comparable offline translation app on your phone) handy. That helped us a lot in many situations. You can download the ‘Spanish’ and ‘your native’ language on Google Translate App, so that you can use it ‘offline’.

Do I need an International Driver’s License?

No – at least not to pick up the rental car. But just in case, we had our International Driver’s License issued in Austria and brought it with us, but no one ever requested for it. We also have to say that we have never been stopped by the police.

Important Information about Motor Insurance in Mexico

Very, very important: In order to drive on Mexican roads, you need a Mexican Insurance . At first glance, car rental deals in Mexico often appear extremely cheap. With such low offers, however, you can almost guarantee that the price for the insurance has been excluded from that – therefore, upon pick up, you might be in for a surprise, when the final bill is almost double what you initially expected.

Especially if you are looking for a rental car in the USA, many rely on credit card insurance, but this is not accepted in Mexico. In any case, we didn’t want to take the risk, because in the case of an accident, it would not look good for us at all.

Tip: this is how we book our rental cars

For the reasons mentioned above, we always insist on a full comprehensive insurance with reimbursement of the deductible/excess. That’s the safest way to go about renting a car and that is also why we always book our rental cars through Sunny Cars and have done so for years – Mexico was no exception.

Sunny Cars acts as a middle-man. So you book through Sunny Cars and pick up your car at one of the local car rental companies (EuropCar was ours). The big advantage: You have all necessary insurance included and in case of damage you will also be reimbursed by Sunny Cars for any deductibles or excess paid.

Because we have read so many horror stories in advance, we inquired about this issue once again with regards to the insurance. The very helpful staff then confirmed that everything was covered. Our pro tip: Always make a short video upon picking up the car and showcase all sides of the car, including any existing damage… just in case.

You can search for cheap rental cars via this link here: Sunny Cars

Which class or type of car should I rent?

The road conditions are relatively good and there is certainly no need to fork out on an SUV. Nevertheless, we almost never rent out the smallest models because in the case of an accident, we personally prefer to have too much rather than too little in terms of crumple zone. You cannot go wrong with the lower middle class or middle class cars .

Do I need a GPS?

A classic GPS is definitely not worth it. Most of these are expensive and/or are obsolete (not updated). Instead, our tip is: buy a local sim card from a store nearby and use your smartphone as navigation.

It is also possible to drive completely without a GPS, as long as you have at least one road map. However, we were both very happy that we could rely on the Maps app on our smartphones .

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, we will receive a small commission. For you, this does not change the price at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Have you done a road trip through the Yucatán region of Mexico before? If so, what did your itinerary look like? We look forward to reading your experiences and tips in the comments below.

You might also be interested in this

The Most Beautiful Cenotes of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

Playa del Carmen: Travel Guide & Our Honest Experience

Yucatán in Mexico: Practical travel tips and information for your trip

11 responses.

Hi, the blog is great. I am just wondering where you parked your car while staying for multiple days? Did you just park it on streets?

so sorry for our late reply. Yes, we mostly parked our car on streets. Wasn’t any problem. :)

Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

The military checkpoints and corrupt cops sound kinda scary. Do you think this road trip is doable as a solo female or should I try to do this trip with a partner? I would love to visit all of these amazing sites, but I love traveling solo so safety is always a big concern.

Hi Nicole, we shared some of our experiences in this article: https://www.sommertage.com/en/yucatan-mexico-travel-tips/ We felt safe the entire time. Of course, we can only speak from our perspective but we would consider it a safe place for solo female travelers. Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Thank you so much for this – it is really amazingly helpful.

I am visiting for 2-3 weeks in December and I’m considering following your route!

Regards Rob

Really nice blog! I love the honesty. I am going to travel a similar route in 11 weeks from now! Super excited!

What was your budget for 3 weeks? How expensive is Mexico? Do you have a blog on that topic.

Hi Steven, Thank you so much! We shared some costs in this article: https://www.sommertage.com/en/yucatan-mexico-travel-tips/ :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Thx for all these tips. Quick question : The picture in the paragraph “Do I need an International Driver’s License?”. where was it taken? (It’s beautiful!) Thx!

Hi Sandy, thank you so much. That picture was taken in Valladolid. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Loved this post. Really factual and an interesting view on each location that I can relate too. My partner and I are traveling soon to the same area but only for 2 week. Is there anything you feel we should avoid? Thanks

Hi, we would probably skip Playa del Carmen next time. That’s just our opinion. It was our least favorite place on the Yucatán, but some people like it. ;) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

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The Perfect Two-Week Itinerary for a Yucatán Peninsula Mexico Road Trip

Are you planning a trip to the Yucatán Peninsula and are overwhelmed with where to start? Let’s break it down! This two-week suggested itinerary will cover most of the main attractions, cities, cenotes and colonial towns along Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, covering three of Mexico’s 32 states (Quintana Roo, Yucatán and Campeche.)

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, check out my Ultimate Guide to Visiting Mexico – Everything You Need To Know Before Traveling To Mexico

And if you plan on moving to Mexico, for a short or long period of time, you may find this blog post as a helpful resource: Everything You Need To Know About How To (Temporarily) Move To Mexico

Here’s a Googlemaps view of the full trip:

Cancún Airport –> Tulum –> Bacalar –> Kohunlich Ruins –> Campeche –> Uxmal Ruins –> Mérida –> Celestún –> Izamal (The Yellow City) –> Valladolid –> Playa Del Carmen –> Cancún Airport

Two weeks was just enough time to get an overall sense of this beautiful region of Mexico’s Southern Peninsula, but you could easily spend months in this area alone!

Before we dive in, here are some helpful tips and things to know before visiting the Yucatán.

What To Know Before Visiting Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula :

• Cajero = ATM
• Tope = speed hump – you will find these everywhere, so don’t drive too fast because some of them are really easy to miss until you hit it and go flying. They are usually marked with a yellow sign and a black symbol with two or three humps
• An “E” with a circle around it (and sometimes a diagonal slash through it) stands for estacionar , which means “parking”
• Be careful about the bill bait and switch when paying at a gas station with efectivo (cash). Some places will try to trick tourists if you give them a 500 peso bill, they’ll try to claim that you gave them a 50 peso bill, so you can avoid this scheme by having them repeat the amount back to you and only give it to them and have them hold it in one hand whilst getting your change with the other hand. If paying by credit card, watch the meter
• Bring mosquito repellant. This area has tons of mosquitoes everywhere
• Be aware of the retornos (turnaround points) along the highway. These are used instead of exits with a loop around like in the U.S. This is a common way to get into an accident, especially with buses or trucks because they stick out
• The main roads are generally in good condition, but on the smaller dirt roads towards the more remote ruins, there are lots of potholes. Don’t drive fast because there’s usually no reception in these areas if you get a flat tire or break down
• Having the T-Mobile International plan was very helpful because we didn’t have to worry about buying a SIM card
• Do not over-bargain. Most of the vendors are selling their wares to support their families. $5 is nothing for a tourist who can afford to visit Mexico on holiday, but $5 means a lot more to them, as it’s enough to feed a mouth
• Stay in the old town when you visit cities such as Merida or Valladolid because most hotels offer free private parking and being able to walk everywhere directly from your accommodation is really nice
• Carry cash with you at all times for places like cenotes and smaller Mayan ruins. Otherwise, most establishments accept credit card and some charge a small fee
• Bring your own snorkel for cenotes. Shared mouthpieces with questionable sanitization…no thank you
• Only bring natural mineral sunscreen. You are not meant to wear sunscreen in the cenotes or in Bacalar Lagoon because it kills the stromatolites and sea life. This also helps to protect the reef when swimming in the ocean / sea
• The security guards and police at checkpoints are generally very friendly, though it is very helpful to speak Spanish
• Police don’t seem to control speed on the highway; during our two weeks driving all around the Peninsula, we saw zero cops waiting on the side of the road. The only time we saw police were at checkpoints and when there were accidents. Go with the flow of traffic but do not speed
• Do as the locals do, and turn on your emergency flashers when approaching a speed hump, slow down, accident, or if it’s raining
• Carry electrolytes (such as Nuun) and activated charcoal in case you get diarrhea. There are pharmacies everywhere, but you may be unfamiliar with the language or the products that you’re used to back home, which may upset your stomach even more
• Don’t drink tap water, anywhere, ever
• Bring reusable hydroflasks or water bottles to help minimize the plastic consumption waste in Mexico
• Instead of purchasing small water bottles throughout your trip, purchase the giant 3-gallon jugs of water. We just kept it in our rental car and used it to fill up our reusable water bottles. One jug lasts two of us about three days. The store also gives you a discount when you return it to buy another jug
• Buy a sombrero once you get to Mexico, don’t bring one from home – you’re supporting the local vendors and many of them are actually high quality and inexpensive. Our sombreros are now hanging from the wall in our living room as a memoir of our trip
• Popular artisanal locally made products from this region include: hammocks, swings, blankets, rugs, wood products, embroidered stitched purses, sombreros and day of the dead paraphernalia (small items for the kitchen such as salt and pepper shakers, bowls, etc.)
• The letter “X” is pronounced “shh” like you’re telling somebody to be quiet
• There are 32 states in Mexico. If you do the suggested road trip below, you will visit three of them
• If you’re visiting during the winter, bring warm clothing! We visited during mid – late December and it actually dipped into the low 60’s at night! Combined with wind, it can actually get chilly! Bring a light sweater, a wind breaker or light jacket, a light scarf or shawl, a few pairs of jeans, and closed toed shoes. The longer clothes also help prevent mosquito bites!

All main international flights fly into Cancún Airport (CUN), where you can rent a car and start your trip! We flew in from Seattle in the evening, so we spent our first night in Tulum .

DAY 1 – 3: TULUM

Drive time from Cancún to Tulum : 1 hour, 20 minutes Time Zone : Eastern Standard Time Read More : The Controversial and Enchanting Tulum, Mexico

With its turquoise waters and powdery white sand beaches, this paradise has a certain seduction that draws you in. Visit La Zona Arqueológica de Tulum for Mayan ruins atop sea cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Discover the craziness of Tulum Beach Road where you can dine underneath canopies of human-sized birds nests, decorative of the boutique hotels which line the stretch of white sand beach, whilst sipping a craft cocktail with the smoky Mezcal. Photograph the Heart Opener Sculpture in front of the vegan restaurant Raw Love , then jump into crystal clear water at Dos Ojos Cenote .

DAY 3 – 5: BACALAR

Drive time from Tulum to Bacalar : 2 hours, 30 minutes Time Zone : Eastern Standard Time Read More : Bacalar & Kohunlich Ruins, Mexico

Discover one of the gems of the Yucatán where you can kayak or float along Los Rápidos . Enjoy a book on one of the many swings or hammocks floating above the jade-colored lagoon. Enjoy supper at Nixtamal where you can taste the flavors of the region’s cuisine. Stop at Kohunlich Ruins on your way to Campeche, which is destination #3.

Kohunlich Ruins

DAY 5 – 7: CAMPECHE

Drive time from Bacalar to Campeche : 6 hours (this will be the longest stretch of driving in your full two-week itinerary.) This is why I recommend stopping at Kohunlich Ruins on the way, which is just one hour from Bacalar to Kohunlich. Then it’s another five hours from Kohunlich to Campeche. Time Zone : Central Standard Time (you’ll gain one hour coming from Bacalar) Read More : Campeche, Mexico

This charming colonial city is one of Mexico’s many port towns and is surrounded by a wall, which acted as a fortress against pirate attacks dating back to the 1600’s. This was our favorite place for culture and history. Walk along the cobblestone streets of Calle 59 for eateries and beautifully painted vibrant buildings. Visit the Museo de Arquitectura Maya and walk atop the wall and ring the bell . Talk a walk through history at the Museo El Palacio Centro Cultural and cool off in the shade of the Jardin Botanico Xmuch’haltun . Take a day trip to Uxmal Ruins .

Uxmal Ruins

Day 7 – 10: MERIDA

Drive time from Campeche to Merida : 2 hours, 15 minutes Time Zone : Central Standard Time Another quaint and colorful colonial town, Mérida is the capital city of the Yucatán and is an excellent base for taking various day trips to neighboring points of interest. Mérida is also one of the safest cities in Mexico, as government officials and diplomats house their children and families here. It’s one of the cleanest and quietest cities in Mexico, and has a much more local feel. The colonial architecture is really beautiful, and quite different from what you would see in a touristy city like Playa Del Carmen. Some buildings are pristine and newly restored, and others look like deserted haunted mansions, fit for a scary Halloween story. Merida is an excellent place to purchase artisanal hand-crafted goods, such as blankets, purses and textiles.

WHERE TO EAT IN MERIDA

• El Apapacho – run by a German expat and her Mexican husband. Their Aztec hot chocolate with a shot of espresso and coconut milk was a highlight
• Merci Paseo 60 – the best breakfast in Merida with great outdoor seating in a lovely courtyard. They bake their own bread, which smells divine!
• Marago Coffee – specialty coffee

DAY TRIPS FROM MERIDA

See the flamingos at celestún.

Celestún is a small sea town on the coast with a beautiful lake that runs parallel to the sea where you can find hundreds and sometimes thousands (depending on the season) of flamingos in the wild! The only way to see these beautiful pink creatures is to take a boat tour. The cost is $1,800 pesos (approximately $90 USD) for a private boat, which fits up to six people. It comes with a boat driver who is also your guide. Most guides do not speak English, so your tour will be in Spanish. This is your time to practice! In addition to flamingos, you’ll see other wildlife such as birds, crocodiles and even a boa constrictor hiding in the mangroves!

You will not be able to see many flamingos during rainy season (June-ish – September-ish) because they like low water levels so that they can peck at the krill on the lake floor. There are six species of flamingo in the world, and one species is native right here to the Yucatán. The flamingos fly between this area and La Isla Holbox (pronounced “hole-bosh”) during the summer.

Fun Facts About Flamingos:

• They lay one egg per year
• Baby flamingos are born white
• They eat pink shrimp (krill), which makes them pink, and the older the flamingo is, the stronger the pink color is
• Their life cycle is approximately 20 years
• Their predator is the cocodrillo (crocodile)
• They fly nearly completely horizontally and look like long sticks
• The tips of the inside of their feathers are black!
• They stay in groups to avoid being attacked by crocodiles
• What do you call a flock of flamingos? = A FLAMBOYANCE! (this is actually true, it’s not a joke – this was my favorite!)

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS IN MERIDA

• Palacio Canton , a Mayan archaeology museum across two levels of a new classical mansion
• Museo Fernando Garcia Ponce Contemporary Art Museum
• Casa de Montejo (free admission) – shows what life was like back in the hacienda days as you walk through a traditional home
• Monumento a la Patria – an impressive structure dedicated to the President. On the back side of the monument, you’ll see decorated plaques for each of Mexico’s 32 states, similar to Plaza España in Sevilla, Spain
• Casa Museo (entry is approximately $5 USD)
• Paseo de Montejo – stroll along Merida’s longest and most famous boulevard (every Sunday they close the street going one way until 1:00 PM for bicyclists, pedestrians, dogs and families to enjoy car-free!)
• Progreso Beach (35 minutes by car from Merida’s center)

Progreso Beach is 30 – 45 minutes by car from the center of Merida, and is a great place to spend the day and enjoy the sunset on the pier with delicious fresh-made churros in hand.

DAY 10 – 12: VALLADOLID

Valladolid is another colonial city and a good base for day trips such as Chichen Itza : 40 minutes, Rio Lagartos (Las Coloradas) : 2 hours, or the very nearby Cenote Dzitnup : 10 minutes.

Stop at Casa Maca Vegan Concept where you can try home made kombuchas or enjoy a refreshing salad – a nice break from all that heavy Mexican food you’ll be eating!

We always love to try traditional foods from the region we’re visiting, and the place I’m about to recommend has some of the best food I’ve eaten in all of Mexico , and YES that is a big statement because we’ve visited and / or lived in five states and over 10 cities over nearly six months. When in Valladolid, you MUST visit Ix Cat Ik , a hidden local gem serving traditional Mayan cuisine. This place is very local, so you’ll see very few tourists, if any at all. It’s a beautiful space with both indoor and outdoor seating in the garden, complete with hammocks and Mayan women making tortillas the traditional way over a comal , a flat griddle heated by real fire outside in a covered cave-like structure that reminded me of a temazcal (which we tried when we visited Oaxaca .) If you ask your mesero (server) to show you how the paste is made for their signature dishes, he will physically demonstrate it for you on their sample table, using a traditional metate (a stone mortar used to grind ingredients such as cacao, coriander seeds, cinnamon, etc.)

Traditional Mayan cuisine uses chaya in nearly all their dishes. Chaya is in the spinach family and is a green leafy vegetable that Mayans use for making juices, by naturally coloring tortillas, and baked into dishes. The two most popular items to order here are the Valladolid Sausage (Longaniza de Valladolid) – I will be dreaming about this sausage for years to come…and Póok Chúuk , their signature dish – a pig cooked underground for 8 hours beneath the Earth, after being rubbed and marinated in over 10 spices. They actually cook it right outside the restaurant where the outdoor seating is, so you can see the entire process. This is a true farm-to-table experience, and reminded me very much of the Hawaiian tradition of Lūʻau where they cook the pig in the ‘imu (underground Earth oven) and covered with ti leaves.

Walk La Calle de las Frailes , a very cute walking street with artisanal shops and coffee.

When visiting Valladolid, don’t miss the famous Cenote Suytun , just a 20-minute drive from the city center. You simply drive into the car park, pay the entrance fee and walk down into a massive and jaw-dropping cave filled with stalactites. A small hole in the cave’s ceiling creates a perfect spotlight right onto a platform, making for the most epic photos.

On the way from Merida to Valladolid to break up the drive, make a pit stop at Izamal, The Yellow City , just 1.5 hours by car from Valladolid. Nearly everything in this quaint town is painted a mustard yellow to reflect the sun. Mayans considered Izamal to be the manifestation of the sun God.

In Izamal, don’t miss the Kinich Ka Moo Ruins , which are free to enter and you can actually climb them! I recommend going during sunset to catch the golden hour over the yellow city…it’s just perfect.

DAY 12 – 14 + Extended Time: PLAYA DEL CARMEN

My husband and I spend winters in Mexico between Puerto Vallarta and Playa Del Carmen. (If you’re planning to visit or live in Puerto Vallarta, I wrote a Complete Guide To Visiting Puerto Vallarta , which has helped tens of thousands of people plan their trip / move.)

We spend anywhere between 1 – 2 months in Playa Del Carmen each winter (the locals and expats just refer to it as “Playa”) and we really enjoy the ease of life. While Uber is illegal in Playa, taxis are inexpensive and plentiful, and Uber Eats partners with a local food delivery company called Didi, which we found to be extremely helpful since we work remotely on Seattle time zone and didn’t have time to go out and grab lunch every day. We also joined a local gym, and enjoyed several yoga classes, dance classes, and a great running track right across from our place. Playa has a great walking street (5th Avenue, or Quinta Avenida in Spanish – this is the main drag). The architecture lacks character since it’s all built for tourists and expats, so there’s no quaint old town, colonial church or cobblestone streets as you would find in some of the other towns I highlighted above. Playa is an enormous magnet for expats and digital nomads, so it lacks authentic Mexican culture; however, if you’re looking for beautiful Caribbean beaches with turquoise water and pillowy white sand beaches, Playa is your place! Our favorite beach was located just 30 minutes North of downtown, called Xpu-Ha , which had some boutique and luxury beach clubs to spend a whole day relaxing.

Another popular beach closer to downtown, is Punta Esmeralda , located just a ten-minute taxi drive from the main city center, or a 15-minute bike ride.

There are so many great options for dining in Playa, and it’s easy to eat vegan here if you’re a plant-based eater.

So there you have it! A jam-packed 14-day itinerary to thoroughly explore all that the Yucatan has to offer.

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About culturalfoodies

Aloha! My name is Lisa and I am the writer and photographer behind Cultural Foodies. I began this blog back in 2017 when my husband and I left our corporate careers in Seattle to travel abroad for half a year. Since then, our lifestyle has evolved into world travel digital nomads / business owners, so we live and travel all over the world all whilst working remotely.

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Wow nice post and so helpful info. Really enjoyed your blog as I learned so much about 2 weeks tour in Mexico. Thanks for sharing! Feel free to check mine too if you’re interested: best 2 weeks in morocco

culturalfoodies

Thank you, I appreciate your comment!

Loved reading your post! A friend and I spent 2 weeks visiting Isla Holbox, Valladolid, Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, and finally Cancún between Oct 23 to Nov 6. Smaller route and tough to fit in everything we planned, but so much fun. I agree with everything you stated about Tulum and I really hope that it gets better. We said Bacalar would be next trip and to that I’ll have to add Campeche and Merida 🥰.

Hi Amanda! What a perfect trip that sounds like! I’m so happy that people are getting to see the beauty of the Yucatan outside of Tulum and all-inclusive resorts. There’s just so much more! Yes, Bacalar, Campeche and Merida should absolutely be your next stops for round #2! 🙂

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• Yucatan Road Trip: The Perfect 2 Weeks in Mexico

If you’re wondering how to fill 2 weeks in Mexico then taking a Yucatan road trip is always going to be one of the most thrilling ways to organize your trip.

This tropical region is where you’ll find hundreds of mysterious cenotes, impressive Mayan ruins, golden beaches with azure waters, and fascinating cities rich in Mexican culture and heritage. Not to mention world-class diving and snorkeling!

But with so many sights to choose from, it can be exhausting to piece it all together into the perfect route. And that’s where my Yucatan Peninsula road trip itinerary comes into the picture!

The following guide contains everything you need to know about what places to visit, which hotels to stay at during your trip, and even where to eat.

A quick note before we begin that this Yucatan itinerary covers the Yucatan Peninsula rather than just the Mexican state of Yucatan. In fact, the peninsula is inclusive of Campeche and Quintana Roo besides as well as Yucatan. Let’s get started!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Useful Info for Your Yucatan Road Trip

How to get to yucatan.

You can access the Yucatan Peninsula by a number of international airports including Cancun (CUN), Cozumel (CZM), and Mérida (MID), all of which are well connected to Mexico City and international destinations.

However, for the purpose of this 2 week Mexico itinerary I suggest that you fly in and out of Cancun International Airport in the state of Quintana Roo.

As one of the largest and busiest airports in the region – Latin America’s third and Mexico’s second busiest airport to be precise – Cancun is well served by international flights from the US, Europe, and beyond.

If connections work out better you can also choose to fly into Mexico City International Airport (MEX) and then transfer to Cancun from there. Flight times from Mexico City to Cancun take approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. 

From Cancun International Airport you’re looking at a 20-minute transfer downtown or to the Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone). 

Best time to visit the Yucatan Peninsula

The best time to plan your Yucatan Peninsula road trip is between December and April. This is when the weather is at its driest and temperatures are most comfortable. Even though this is coined as the “winter” period, daytime temperatures never drop below 20°C (68°F).

The summer months of May and onwards bring hotter temperatures and the onset of the rainy season where heavy rainfall is to be expected. This can prevent access to certain sites on your Yucatan itinerary and will make the driving conditions more dangerous so it’s best to avoid traveling during these months.

Remember to plan your trip for early November if you hope to experience some of the Día de los Muertos celebrations.

Driving tips for Yucatan

The Yucatan is fortunate to comprise flat paved roads that are safe, well-maintained, and perfectly pleasant to drive.

As with the US and most European countries, you must drive on the right-hand side of the road. The minimum age to rent a car in Mexico is 21 but drivers under the age of 25 are subject to paying higher fees.

Once you’re behind the wheel, driving in the region is a straightforward affair and the locals are used to sharing their roads with international tourists. To ensure you don’t encounter any surprises on your Yucatan road trip, these are a couple of rules and customs to be familiar with:

• If your vacation falls within the rainy season be mindful that the heavy downpours will hinder your progress. Check that your windscreen wipers work well and try to avoid driving during storms and the heaviest rains. 
• Check your tire pressure as driving at faster speeds on these hot asphalt roads can cause blow-outs.
• All gas stations in the Yucatan Peninsula are staffed by attendants and it is customary to leave a small tip of around 10 MXN (0.5 USD). Check that they have set the pump to “zero” before they start. 
• Check the locations of gas stations and plan your gas stops in advance. There are lots of long roads where you’ll find no gas stations, for example between Cancun and Valladolid, so it’s important to have enough fuel for the drive.
• You can generally park everywhere but always avoid the yellow and red curbs in the major cities as these forbid parking.
• Do not leave your valuables in your rental when sightseeing. Theft is rare but it can happen. Some of the cenotes have lockers where you can safely leave your important documents but always leave them at hotels where the itinerary makes this possible. 
• Hopefully, you will not need this during your Yucatan Peninsula road trip but in case you do encounter a breakdown, make a note of the number for the Green Angels [Ángeles Verdes]. This is a free service and they are available at 01-800-987-8224.

Overview of Your Yucatan Road Trip

Breakdown of your 2 weeks in mexico.

Before we go over the schedule day by day, here is a quick overview of your Yucatan road trip itinerary. 

• Day 1: Arrive in Cancun 
• Day 2: Cancun

Day 3: Day trip to Isla Mujeres

Day 4: valladolid.

• Day 5: Chichen Itza & Cenote Ik Kil 
• Day 6: Cenote Zaci, Cenote Suytun, Cenote Chukum
• Day 7: Cenote Oxman, Uayma, Merida

Day 8: Merida

• Day 9: Izamal, Cobá Archaeological Zone, arrive in Tulum

Day 10: Tulum

• Day 11: Tulum Archaeological Zone & Cenote Hopping 
• Day 12: Cenote dos Ojos, Cenote Azul, arrive in Playa del Carmen

Day 13: Playa del Carmen

• Day 14: Return to Cancun airport

Map for your Yucatan road trip itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Yucatan road trip itinerary.

I marked the different parts of the road trip with different colors so you can easily see which places you’re going to in each part of the Yucatan Peninsula.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will automatically save this map to your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Day 1-2: Cancun

Welcome to the Yucatan! After a potentially long experience of traveling to the region on day one, I recommend that you devote the first full day of your 2 weeks in Yucatan to relaxing in the immediate Cancun area.

Seize the opportunity to enjoy the swimming facilities at your resort, hit the beach, and sample the local sites. Unless you want it for added convenience you will not need to collect your rental car until the fourth day when you depart Cancun.  

In terms of things to do in Cancun, you can head over to the downtown area (Ciudad Cancun) and explore the streets and public parks while you find your feet. The Malecón Tajamar is also a fantastic spot to take a walk to coincide with sunset.

There are lots of other activities in the region including visiting cenotes and zip lines but as you’ll have the opportunity to experience these later during your Yucatan road trip, I highly recommend making the most of the downtime by winding down in your hotel resort and checking out the beaches in the Hotel Zone.

Where to stay in Cancun 

Cancun is situated at the eastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula and is divided into two parts. Downtown Cancun is located on the mainland while the Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone) straddles a long, narrow stretch of island that juts out into the Caribbean Sea and runs parallel to the city.

The Hotel Zone is broken down into a string of districts known as the North, Middle, and South Hotel Zones and the whole strip is buzzing with beach resorts, restaurants, and amenities.

For the purpose of this Mexico 2 week itinerary, I recommend that you opt for one of the hotels situated in the Hotel Zone. These are my top picks for where to stay in Cancun.

LUXURY – Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun

Nestled on a private stretch of beach and minutes from downtown Cancun, this adults-only, smoke-free resort features a full-service spa. It covers 5-acres and offers spacious guest rooms with 2-person hot tubs.

MID-RANGE – JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa

Nestled along the beach in the middle of Cancun’s hotel zone, this luxurious AAA Five Diamond Award winner hotel offers comfortable accommodations and relaxing spa services just steps from the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. You can read my full review of JW Marriott Cancun here !

BUDGET – Occidental Tucancún

Directly on the beach on the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, this all-inclusive hotel features a variety of activities, dining options, and access to area attractions. With a children’s club, on-site boutiques, tennis courts, and a variety of sports courts, there is something for everyone at Occidental Tucancún.

For the third day of your 2 week Mexico itinerary, you can head to the outlying Isla Mujeres, the “Isle of Women”. 

Isla Mujeres is a small island that registers around 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) in length. It is accessible via a short boat ride from Gran Puerto Cancun in Puerto Juarez or from one of the jetties on the Hotel Zone if you prefer.

The island was dedicated to the goddess of fertility and love, Ixchel, and in pre-Hispanic days Mayan people would leave offerings to her on the gorgeous beaches that border the island. 

Once you reach Isla Mujeres you can hire a golf cart for the day and tour the island at leisure, stopping to swim in the turquoise waters and explore the sights. If you prefer to go with a guided tour, check out this Catamaran tour with Lunch and Open Bar !

There are plenty of opportunities to snorkel off the beaches or you can also book an excursion if you’d rather. Scuba diving is also an option if you want to factor this into your Yucatan road trip itinerary.

Some of the most popular attractions on the island include the northernmost beach of Playa Norte, the southern cliffs of Punta Sur, and MUSA which is accessible as a snorkeling or diving tour. During the summer months (May until September) it is possible to swim with the gentle whale sharks just off the island.

I have written an entire blog post dedicated to how to plan a day trip to Isla Mujeres so you can check that out for the full information on how to organize your outing.

Driving time: 2 hours 15 minutes (175 km/108 miles) from Cancun to Valladolid

Today it’s time to check out of your hotel in Cancun and truly start your Yucatan road trip itinerary! If you haven’t picked up a rental car yet, now is the time to do so.

After checking out, head straight to Valladolid which will take you around 2 hours and 15 minutes if you take the 180D highway. Although you have to pay a toll fee for using the highway (355 MXN/15 USD), I still recommend taking this road as it’s in very good shape and it will help you speed up the driving time.

One thing to note is that you won’t come across any gas stations on the highway so make sure to fill up before starting the journey!

Exploring Valladolid

The attractive city of Valladolid is rich in historical buildings that include the Convent of San Bernardino of Siena.

Constructed between 1552 and 1560 this beautiful building was originally a monastery and was the first home of the Franciscan Order in Valladolid. Step inside for the chance to see the magnificent frescoes and stately wooden altarpiece.

There is also a small museum that will fill you in on the history and archaeology of the cenotes that stud the Yucatan region. The convent is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm, and there is a small admission charge of 30 MXN (1.5 USD) if you want to go inside.

Right in the very heart of the city, you will find the Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado which features an impressive statue and shaded seating areas.

If you fancy brushing up on your trivia while stocking up on treats for family and friends back home you can check out the museums that are dedicated to chocolate and tequila, both of which are a short walk from the square.

Beyond the convent and main square, you can spend the rest of your day exploring the little cobblestone streets and ducking into cafes. There are also a number of cenotes in and around Valladolid although you can save these for the next couple of days of your Yucatan Peninsula road trip.

If you’re interested in some dinner recommendations, check out the colonial restaurant and rooftop bar of El Meson del Marques for the best views (pictured below) , Restaurante El Atrio del Mayab across the park for a romantic dinner, or Restaurante Ahal for some delicious local flavors.

Where to stay in Valladolid 

Valladolid is a small city that is divided down into districts and neighborhoods. The most central of these – Sisal, San Juan, and Candelaria – put you within a short walk of the major attractions and places to eat in the town and I recommend that you select accommodation around these areas.

These are my recommendations for where to stay in Valladolid during your Yucatan road trip.

LUXURY – Hotel Posada San Juan

Located in Valladolid’s town center, Hotel Posada San Juan has an outdoor pool and gardens to offer to its guests. The property is air-conditioned and has free Wi-Fi connection access throughout.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Fundadores

Featuring a garden and a terrace, Hotel Fundadores is set in Valladolid. There is an outdoor pool and guests can make use of free WiFi and free private parking. At the hotel, all rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a desk, a patio with a pool view, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, bed linen, and towels.

BUDGET – Hotel Casa Rico

Hotel Casa Rico is situated in Valladolid and has a shared lounge and a terrace. The accommodation features an outdoor swimming pool, a 24-hour front desk, where staff can assist guests, as well as free WiFi throughout the property.

Day 5: Chichen Itza & Cenote Ik Kil

Chichen itza.

Driving time: 45 minutes (42 km/26 miles) from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

For the fifth day of your 2 weeks in Yucatan you can finally tick off one of the most famous sites in the country! The archaeological site of Chichen Itza is a 40-minute drive from central Valladolid so you can visit it as a day trip. 

Built during 250 AD and 900 AD (the exact dates are hotly contested), Chichen Itza developed into a center of political and economic power during the Mayan era. By the 9th century, the rulers of Chichen Itza held power over the vast majority of the central and northern Yucatan peninsula.

The name is understood to mean “at the mouth of the well of the Itza” and it is believed that Itza is symbolic of water. Archaeologists have discovered a large cenote in the northern segment of the site which research suggests was used for human sacrifices. 

While exploring the ruins of the ancient complex you will have the opportunity to get up close to the remarkably well-preserved El Castillo Pyramid (also known as the Kukulkan Pyramid). The light from the equinox casts shadows down the steps to create the illusion of a descending serpent.

Other sites include the Great Ball Court and The Snail. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was commended as one of the “New” Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

The complex is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm and you can purchase your tickets on site.

Admission to Chichen Itza is 533 MXN (26.2 USD) that is made up of the actual entrance fee of 80 MXN (4 USD) plus a state fee of 453 MXN (22.2 USD). You have to pay for these in separate windows and while the state fee can be paid by credit card, the entrance fee is cash only.

If you would prefer to visit Chichen Itza with a guide then it is possible to organize this from Valladolid. Certain tours also include a stop at Cenote Ik Kil but you will need to double-check that before you book. Even if you would prefer to visit independently, it is beneficial to pre-book your admission tickets in advance.

Cenote Ik Kil

Driving time: 5 minutes (3 km/1.8 miles) from Chichen Itza to Cenote Ik Kil, then 40 minutes (40 km/25 miles) back to Valladolid

After you finish exploring Chichen Itza you can head 5 minutes down the road to take a dip in the first of several cenotes of your Mexico 2 week itinerary.

Cenote Ik Kil was held sacred by the ancient Mayan civilization and is where they would go to worship their god of the rain, Chaac. Admission to Cenote Ik Kil is 150 MXN (7.3 USD) and the sinkhole is open daily, 9 am – 5 pm.

If you’ve not eaten yet, then you might want to eat lunch at the buffet next door to the cenote or pick up some refreshments from the snack bar. 

Day 6: Cenote hopping around Valladolid

If yesterday’s trip to Cenote Ik Kil gave you a flavor for subterranean swimming then you’ll be pleased to hear that you have three more to look forward to on the sixth day of your Yucatan itinerary.

Cenote Zaci, Cenote Suytun, and Cenote Chukum are all super close to Valladolid so drive time today will only come out at around one hour (32 kilometers/20 miles). If you intend to swim in all three then you’ll want to factor in at least 1-1.5 hours at each cenote. 

Cenote Zaci

Cenote Zaci is situated in the center of Valladolid so you can head there first and beat the crowds. This open cenote reaps all the benefits of the natural light which pours in from above and helps keep the environment a lush shade of green.

If you’re feeling up to the challenge, you can dive from the cliffs that reach heights of 8 meters (26 feet). Admission to Cenote Zaci is 30 MXN (1.5 USD) and it is open daily, 9 am – 5 pm.

Cenote Suytun

Driving time: 15 minutes (8.5 km/5 miles) from Valladolid to Cenote Suytun

The next cenote on your Yucatan road trip is one of the most Instagrammable places in Mexico. Cenote Suytun is characterized by its stalactites and stalagmites as well as the long walkway that takes you out into the middle of the cave where you can get a vantage point while the sun beams down from above.

The best time of day to experience the beams of sunlight is just after midday. It’s best to schedule your visit to Cenote Suytun at around noon to capture the best lighting conditions.

Factor in the rule that guests are only allowed to spend an hour at Cenote Suytun. Admission is 150 MXN (7.3 USD) and it is open daily, 9 am – 5 pm.

Cenote Chukum

Driving time: 10 minutes (7 km/4.5 miles) from Cenote Suytun to Cenote Chukum

Your final sinkhole of the day, Cenote Chukum, was named after the chukum trees that grow in the vicinity. This whopping big cenote is kitted out with three diving platforms, a rope swing, and a zipline to enhance the adventurous experience.

The entry charge is 200 MXN (9.7 USD) and the cenote is open to the public daily, 9 am – 5 pm. 

For more tips and in-depth details about visiting the cenotes, you can refer to my complete guide to the best cenotes in Yucatan . 

Dinner in Valladolid

Driving time: 25 minutes (15 km/9.5 miles) from Cenote Chukum to Valladolid

After an energetic day exploring the cenotes, you can look forward to treating yourself to a dinner in Valladolid. You can use my recommendations from the previous day or if you’re looking for something new, read on below.

Casa Conato Cultural is a laid-back bar with a menu that consists of Mexican classics as well as pizzas and light bites. The place is upbeat in the evening and it’s a great choice if you fancy staying out for a couple of drinks.

Alternatively, Le Kaat offers an extensive vegan menu that is packed with goodness in a beautiful setting.

Day 7: Cenote Oxman, Uayma & Merida

You need to check out of your Valladolid hotel this morning and drive to today’s final destination, Merida, with scenic stops at Cenote Oxman and Uayma. Driving time today comes out at around 2.5 hours (175 km/108 miles). 

Cenote Oxman

Driving time: 15 minutes (6.5 km/4 miles) from Valladolid to Cenote Oxman

Your first stop of the day is the picturesque Cenote Oxman which is a cerulean blue sinkhole in the depths of a collapsed cave. Long tendrils of tree roots and other foliage hang down over the water and there are a number of diving platforms if you’re feeling brave enough to take the plunge.

It is possible to swim in the cenote but if you do not feel like it, I still recommend that you squeeze a stop in your Yucatan road trip itinerary purely to see the spectacle for yourself and take some photos.

The admission fee for Cenote Oxman is 150 MXN (7.3 USD).

If you prefer, you can pay 250 MXN (12.2 USD) which taps on a dining experience at the Hacienda Cenote Oxman. You can decide whether to take 200 MXN (9.7 USD) in credit to put towards a meal in the restaurant or alternatively you can apply 250 MXN (12.2 USD) to the buffet spread.

Besides the cenote, the hacienda features a large open-air swimming pool. 

Driving time: 20 minutes (14.5 km/9 miles) from Cenote Oxman to Uayma

Uayma is a small town that makes a huge splash with its architecture. Make a beeline for the church and former convent of Santo Domingo de Guzmá.

Built using stones sourced from the surrounding Mayan temples, the convent was erected by the Spanish. The exterior features a kaleidoscope of motifs against the russet-hued bricks.

You can take a stroll through the streets to take in the colorful residences such as Casona Santo Domingo de Guzmán and other traditional homes. If you didn’t eat at Cenote Oxman then you can pick up a light lunch in Uayama. There are a couple of local taquerias and convenience stores in town.

Dinner in Merida

Driving time: 2 hours (170 km/105 miles) from Uayma to Merida

Now it’s time to head to your final destination today, which is going to be Merida. One thing to note is that after Uayama, you’ll need to drive up to the 180D highway again which means another toll fee. This time you’ll have to pay 196 MXN (10 USD).

Once you arrive in Merida, you’ll probably want to head straight out for dinner so you can read my recommendations below.

Rosa Sur 32 fuses together Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine to create a flavorsome, healthy, and filling dining experience in an elegant setting. The menu also highlights some of the leading dishes from the Yucatan region.

Las Vigas is situated a stone’s throw from Plaza Grande and serves affordable Mexican plates although it’s more the kind of place to go for a party atmosphere with a jovial vibe and excellent deals on drinks. 

Where to stay in Merida

Merida is the capital and largest city in the state of Yucatan. As it is somewhat bigger than the other cities featured on this Yucatan road trip, you will need to ensure your accommodation isn’t too far out of the city.

The Zocalo area is situated around the Plaza Grande and puts most of the major attractions on your doorstep. Slightly further afield, the neighborhoods of Santa Ana and Santa Lucia offer more affordable accommodations.

These are my recommendations for where to stay in Merida.

LUXURY – El Palacito Secreto Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa

Set in the historic center of Mérida, El Palacito Secreto Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa is just 10 minutes walk from Paseo de Montejo and Merida’s Cathedral. This breathtaking space has 8 luxurious suites decorated throughout with authentic antique furnishings to provide you with the feeling of living in a Secret Palace.

MID-RANGE – Villa Orquídea Boutique Hotel

In a prime location in the center of Mérida, Villa Orquídea Boutique Hotel provides air-conditioned rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, and a shared lounge. Featuring a garden, the hotel is close to several noted attractions.

BUDGET – Hotel Santa Ana

Located in Mérida’s town center and offering an outdoor pool, Hotel Santa Ana features free Wi-Fi access and has a privileged location, only 650 feet from popular Paseo Montejo Avenue. The rooms here will provide you with cable TV, air conditioning, and cable channels.

There is so much to see in Merida so it is absolutely worth dedicating a full day of your 2 week Mexico itinerary to explore the colorful sights.

This is one of the best cities for absorbing and connecting with traditional and modern Mexican culture and you can happily lose a few hours roaming the Zocolo with its vibrant haciendas and cafes.

The Plaza Principal de Mérida, or Plaza Grande, marks the heart of Merida and is where the guided walking tours usually depart from if you want to sign up to learn all about the city.

Nearby, the Parque de Santa Lucía is another attractive spot to wander and take photos and is also a meeting place for tours offered by Free Walking Tours Merida .

The leafy Plaza Grande is the setting for the Catedral de San Ildefonso, a 16th-century cathedral constructed atop a Mayan temple using bricks salvaged from the remains.

It is free to enter the cathedral where you can spot the giant crucifix that represents the unity between Spanish and Mayan heritage. 

If you’re happy to drive further out then you can check out the archaeological site of Dzibilchaltún. Meaning “writing on flat stones” this historic city is an interesting contrast in comparison with the other Mayan sites you’re visiting as while it doesn’t offer the gigantic pyramids of other destinations, the setup of the city is wholly different.

You can explore such sites as the sacbe trails, the Temple of the Dolls, and the Open Chapel which resembles an amphitheater. Admission to Dzibilchaltún is 80 MXN (4 USD) and it’s open daily 9 am – 4 pm. 

While you could easily spend an entire day touring the city’s museums, the Mayan World Museum of Merida is the best one to visit with limited time. The collection spans Mayan art, handicrafts, The museum is open Thursday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm, and the admission fee is 150 MXN (7.3 USD). 

If you would prefer to head to a more centrally located museum then try the Museum of the City of Merida which provides a full panorama of the city’s history from the Mayan times to the present day. This museum is open Tuesday to Friday, 9 am – 6 pm, and on weekends, 9 am – 2 pm. Admission is also 150 MXN (7.3 USD). 

Day 9: Izamal, Cobá Ruins & Tulum

This morning you can check out of your Merida hotel and tackle the longest drive on your Mexico 2 week itinerary to Tulum with stops at Izamal and the Cobá Archaeological Zone. Drive time today is around 4 hours 15 minutes (293 km/182 miles).

Driving time: 1 hour (68 km/42 miles) from Merida to Izamal

With an array of sunshine-colored buildings, Izamal earned itself the nickname of the Yellow City of the Yucatan. The city was painted yellow as the Mayans considered the region as the dwelling place of the sun god, Kinich Kakmo.

Sites to check out include the Pirámide Kinich Kakmó, one of the largest pyramids built by the Mayans in the Yucatan region. According to folklore, a deity in the form of a macaw would collect offerings left atop the monument.

The site is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm, and it is free to visit. Across the road, you can also visit the Pirámide de Itzamatul.

You can also visit the mustard-toned Convento de San Antonio and enjoy a sheltered walk along the covered colonnades. The convent is also free to visit, making IIzamal a budget-friendly addition to your Yucatan road trip.

Cobá Archeologial Site

Driving time: 2 hours 15 minutes (173 km/108 miles) from Izamal to Cob á Archeological Site

On your way to Tulum from Izamal, you can once again take advantage of the 180D highway. The toll fee is exactly the same as it was on the way to Merida, which is 196 MXN (10 USD).

Make one more stop right outside Tulum, and take a wander around the Cobá Archaeological Zone which contains the remains of an ancient Mayan city. Cobá translates to “waters ruffled by the wind” and is likely a reference to the two large lagoons on the premises.

Nohoch Mul is the star of Cobá and it is possible to climb up the 120 steps to the top of this huge pyramid for a panoramic view across the surrounding jungle. Standing at a height of 41.6 meters (137 feet), Nohoch Mul is in fact taller than the 30 meters (97.4 feet) tall El Castillo Pyramid. 

The Cobá Archaeological Zone is open daily, 9 am – 5 pm, and the admission fee is 80 MXN (4 USD). As it takes around three hours to walk around the complex in full, you might find it best to get around with a bicycle which is available for 50 MXN (2.5 USD). 

Dinner in Tulum

Driving time: 1 hour (52 km/32 miles) from Cob á Archeological Site to Tulum Beach

No doubt you’ll feel hungry when you reach Tulum and you’ll be overjoyed to hear that there is an endless supply of places to eat! The Tulum Beach Strip is brimming with options where you can find nutritious and appetizing dishes.

Head to Atila for beachside fine dining presented with a flourish or make a date at Parole Tulum if you want something romantic. The Italian menu is served to a backdrop of live violinists.

Where to stay in Tulum

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Tulum, you basically have two options: Downtown Tulum and Tulum Beach. However, within these two districts, there are sub-sections to take into consideration when selecting the best part of Tulum to stay in.

Downtown Tulum is set back from the coastline with the national park sandwiched in between. You can find dozens of restaurants, shops, and other amenities in the town and it is not an overwhelming size.

The most beautiful setting is the Tulum Beach Strip, which is an extension of the Tulum Hotel Zone.

Located around 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the town, this strip runs southwards from the Tulum National Park and Archaeological Park with all properties boasting seafront access. If you’re looking for the best luxury hotels in Tulum , here is where you’ll find most of them.

For a quick solution, check out my top picks below for different budgets.

LUXURY – The Beach Tulum

The adults-only The Beach Tulum Hotel offers a beautiful setting on Tulum Beach within 7 km (4.3 miles) of its famous Mayan Ruins. It features beach-front rooms with terraces and lounge areas, an outdoor pool, a beach club, and a restaurant.

MID-RANGE – Gramercy Tulum

Located in Tulum, 150 feet from South Tulum Beach, Gramercy Tulum provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a garden. Featuring a private beach area, the 5-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom.

BUDGET – Zamas Hotel

Located on a beautiful beach within Tulum National Park, Zamas Hotel offers an open-air restaurant, 24-hour reception, and free Wi-Fi. The colorful thatched cabins have balconies overlooking the tropical gardens or the sea.

Tulum Beach is one of the most beautiful beach towns in Mexico and it’s one of the places to go for a morning stroll with your camera. The resort has sprung to fame thanks to its Instagrammable spots that pop with color.

It’s up to you whether you go for a wander and check out the Tulum Beach Strip cafes and lookouts at leisure or maybe you want to specifically plan to visit the most Instagrammable places in Tulum .

With sculptures, signs, swings, and cafes to tempt you, a couple of hours wandering around the area will provide you with months worth of content for your feed!

One of the most iconic spots is the Ven a La Luz statue that welcomes arrivals to the Ahau Resort at Tulum Beach. This 8 meters (26 feet) tall representation of a woman opening her heart gets pretty popular so you’ll want to arrive there early.

If you want to multitask your shooting then head to one of the cute cafes such as Matcha Mama or Raw Love Tulum where you can grab a nourishing yet made-for-Instagram smoothie. One of the quirkiest spots is surely the giant pink rabbit that marks the entrance to Conestesia Restaurant.

As it’s been a busy couple of days and you’re now nearing the end of your Yucatan Peninsula road trip, this afternoon you can look forward to relaxing at either your hotel, a local beach club, or the public beach.

Tulum Beach is lined with beach clubs where you can rent a bed and pamper yourself with juices, cocktails, and fresh fruit. Check out the luxurious Mía Restaurant & Beach Club or Taboo Tulum if you’re looking to indulge yourself. 

Day 11: Tulum Archaeological Zone & Cenote Hopping

After recouping your energy, today you should rise early and head out to visit the Tulum Ruins before calling in at the local cenotes. Drive time today will be approximately 1 hour (30 kilometers/18.5 miles). 

Tulum Archaeological Zone

Driving time: 15 minutes (6 km/3.7 miles) from Tulum Beach to Tulum Archaeological Zone

The Tulum Archaeological Zone is located a 15-minute drive north of the Tulum Beach Strip, within the Parque Nacional Tulum. The complex comprises the ruins of a Mayan city that rests on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Inhabited since 564 AD, the city was a religious and ceremonial center. Admission to the Tulum Archaeological Zone is 80 MXN (4 USD) and it’s open daily 9 am – 3.30 pm. Aim to arrive as early as possible to beat the intense midday heat. 

Cenotes around Tulum

You can spend the rest of your afternoon hopping around Tulum’s local cenotes. The ones that I have included in this 2 week Mexico itinerary are close by to one another (in fact, they’re on the same road!) and do not require too much driving.

However, if there are too many for one day, feel free to shorten my list and just visit the ones that most appeal to you. 

Cenote Calavera

Driving time: 15 minutes (7 km/4.5 miles) from Tulum Beach to Cenote Calavera

Resembling a human skull, Cenote Calavera is perhaps the spookiest sinkhole in the Yucatan. It’s fairly well hidden away and has thus far escaped the tourist scene so you might manage to have this one to yourself if you’re lucky.

The admission fee is 250 MXN (12.2 USD) plus 200 MXN (9.7 USD) if you want to take photos. It’s open daily, 9 am – 5 pm.

Gran Cenote

Driving time: 2 minutes (2.2 km/1.3 miles) from Cenote Calavera, or 20 minutes (9.5 km/6 miles) from Tulum Beach to Gran Cenote

In contrast to Cenote Calavera, the more popular Gran Cenote is composed of two sunken basins that are linked together with a series of caves. But if the beautiful setting of Gran Cenote wasn’t enough, the water is alive with turtles and you are more or less guaranteed to spot them as well as the resident bats and birds who call the cenote home.

Admission to Gran Cenote is 300 MXN (14.6 USD) and it is open daily, 8 am – 4.45 pm. 

Cenote Aktun-Ha

Driving time: 4 minutes (4 km/2.5 miles) from Gran Cenote, or 20 minutes (13 km/8 miles) from Tulum Beach to Cenote Aktun-Ha

Cenote Aktun-Ha goes by the nickname “Cenote Car Wash” because in past years, local taxi drivers would bring their vehicles to the cenote to wash them!

This no longer is permitted and, instead, the water has returned to its former glory and Cenote Aktun-Ha has become one of the leading destinations for cenote diving in the Yucatan Peninsula. 

If you want to take photos, then Cenote Aktun-Ha is a little more pricey. The entry charge is 250 MXN (12.2 USD) but then you would need to pay an extra 150 MXN (7.3 USD) to use your camera and 150 MXN (7.3 USD) if you want to shoot with a drone.

There is also a mandatory charge of ​​30 MXN (1.5 USD) to hire a lifejacket if you want to swim in this cenote. Bear this in mind if you’re spending 2 weeks in Yucatan on a budget. 

Cenote Zacil-Ha

Driving time: 2 minutes (350 m/1,150 feet) from Cenote Aktun-Ha, or 20 minutes (13.5 km/8.5 miles) from Tulum Beach to Cenote Zacil-Ha

Cenote Zacil-Ha is right across the road from Cenote Aktun-Ha. This open cenote is shrouded by greenery and is a popular hangout for birds.

Local families tend to favor this cenote as it’s particularly family-friendly with its shallow depths of up to 10 meters (32.8 feet), the zipline, and the additional two swimming pools located within the area.

Another reason to wrap up your day at Cenote Zacil-Ha? You can get a free pedicure from the fish in the water! The admission fee for the cenote is 200 MXN (9.7 USD) plus 150 MXN (7.3 USD) if you want to use your camera. 

Day 12: Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Azul & Playa del Carmen

On the twelfth morning of your 2 weeks in Mexico, you can check out of your Tulum hotel and drive to Playa del Carmen. Drive time including the cenote stops equates to 1 hour 30 minutes (86 kilometers/53.5 miles). 

Cenote Dos Ojos

Driving time: 35 minutes (26 km/16 miles) from Tulum Beach to Cenote Dos Ojos

Cenote Dos Ojos, the “Two Eye Cenote”, comprises two cenotes that are connected by an underwater tunnel. You can swim in either of the two cenotes: you’ll notice that one is a vibrant shade of blue while the other is much darker.

Cenote Dos Ojos is situated close to a third cave which is home to a colony of bats but if you want to visit this one too then you’ll need to pay for a guided tour.

Entry to Cenote Dos Ojos is 350 MXN (17 USD) or you can pay 700 MXN (35 USD) for a guided tour which includes the bat cave. The cenote is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm.

Cenote Azul

Driving time: 30 minutes (30 km/18.5 miles) from Cenote Dos Ojos to Cenote Azul

If you want to experience some of the best cenote snorkeling conditions during your Yucatan Peninsula road trip, you’ll want to visit Cenote Azul.

The “blue cenote” is alive with corals and plentiful aquatic life. Adventurous souls might want to jump from the cliffs to the watery depths below.

The entry fee for Cenote Azul is 120 MXN (5.8 USD) and it is open daily, 8.30 am – 5.30 pm.

Dinner in Playa del Carmen 

Driving time: 30 minutes (30 km/18.5 miles) from Cenote Azul to Playa del Carmen

Once in Playa del Carmen you can drop off your rental and head out for dinner in town.

El Fogon is one of the most popular restaurants in town and although you can expect a line to greet you the food is absolutely worth the wait. The menu features all your favorite Mexican dishes plus a generous drinks menu to wash your fajitas down with.

If you fancy a change from Mexican food you can check out Luma Taverna Del Mar which specializes in fresh seafood prepared with a Mediterranean influence. 

Where to stay in Playa del Carmen 

Situated in the state of Quintana Roo, the resort town of Playa del Carmen is part of the Yucatan Peninsula’s Riviera Maya strip of Caribbean shoreline. It’s a fraction larger than Tulum but smaller and less busy than Cancun.

Much of the action within the Centro district revolves around Quinta Avenida which bustles with street food stalls, restaurants, and stores where you can pick up locally made souvenirs.

South of Centro, Playacar is the setting for the most luxurious beach resorts, while to the north you will find more affordable options and family-friendly resorts. Below you can find my top picks for where to stay in Playa del Carmen.

LUXURY – Andaz Mayakoba

Offering two outdoor pools and a private beach area, Upscale Andaz Mayakoba is in the gated Mayakoba complex in Playa del Carmen. The resort has a spa center and sauna, and guests can enjoy a meal at one of the 4 restaurants.

MID-RANGE – Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen

Set in Playa del Carmen, Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen Adults Only All Inclusive offers beachfront accommodation 500 feet from Playa del Carmen Beach and provides various facilities, such as a restaurant, a bar, and a shared lounge.

BUDGET – Singular Joy Vacation Rentals

Singular Joy Vacation Rentals has an outdoor swimming pool, bar, a shared lounge, and garden in Playa del Carmen. Located around 500 feet from Playa del Carmen Beach, the hotel with free WiFi is also less than 0.6 miles away from Playacar Beach.

How you spend your day in Playa del Carmen is going to depend on your personal preferences and how much you are prepared to spend.

You might want to seize the moment to spend a final day at one of the best beaches in Playa del Carmen , visit a few more cenotes or adventure parks, or spend your day cafe hopping and picking up mementos on Quinta Avenida.

Cenotes & Beaches

If you haven’t had your fill of cenotes then there are a couple of options close to the town that you can check out including Cenote Chaak Tun and Cenote Cristalino. In case you’re looking for an adventure, you can try out this Riviera Maya buggy tour with cenote swim !

In terms of beaches, most of the beachfront at Playa del Carmen is occupied by resorts and beach clubs that you will need to pay to hire a bed at if your chosen accommodation isn’t on the sand.

Mamita’s Beach Club is a swanky option and you can offset the higher fee towards the cost of food and drink. The lively Lido Beach Club is a more affordable option where you can rent a chair or a bed and again part of the rental fee goes towards any food or drinks.

If you want to get a final burst of excitement to conclude your Yucatan road trip then you could drive to one of the nearby adventure parks. There are three options to choose between: Xcaret, Xel-Ha, and Xplor.

Xcaret is the most well-known of the parks and draws together adrenaline activities with cultural pursuits. The park contains three underground rivers, a beach, and natural wells.

You can also visit the Coral Reef Aquarium, the Butterfly House, and the Aviary, and catch cultural dances and performances. Tickets to Xcaret start at 2,078 MXN (103 USD). 

Xel-Ha is your one-stop shop for snorkeling, river tubing, gentle hiking, and the exploration of cenotes, caverns, and jungle.

Together, Xcaret and Xel-Ha are the most appropriate options for families with younger children but both parks appeal to all types of travelers due to the scope of activities and nature sights. Admission to Xel-Ha starts at 1,889 MXN (94 USD). 

For those seeking the highest level of thrill, Xplor features two zip line routes that fly you over the top of the canopy and deposit you in the cooling waters. You can also swim through subterranean rivers and drive jeeps through the jungle. Admission to Xplor starts at 2,456 MXN (122 USD). 

Day 14: Return to Cancun

Driving time: 45 minutes (55 km/34 miles) from Playa del Carmen to Cancun Airport

It’s the final day of your trip and all that is left to do on your Yucatan road trip itinerary is squeeze in one final trip to the pool at your Playa del Carmen resort, check out of your hotel, and drive back to Cancun for your flight.

Drive time from Playa del Carmen to Cancun International Airport is 45-60 minutes (55 kilometers/34 miles). Make sure to leave plenty of time for this road as it can get quite busy and missing your flight is not the best way to end your 2 weeks in Mexico!

Planning a trip to Mexico?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Mexico. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Yucatan Peninsula:

• 12 Best Cenotes in Yucatan You Can’t Miss
• 16 Best Tulum Instagram Spots for Epic Photos
• The Perfect Day Trip to Isla Mujeres from Cancun: All You Need to Know
• Luxurious Beach Vacation: JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa Hotel Review

Mexico City:

• 7 Best Areas to Stay in Mexico City for Every Budget
• How to See the Best of Mexico City in One Day
• The Ultimate 3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary

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Ultimate 2 to 4-week itineraries for the Yucatan Peninsula

Posted on February 27, 2020 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on July 17, 2023

The Yucatan Peninsula is one of Mexico’s most visited places and not for nothing. There are tons of unique things to do there, from relaxing at unspoiled beaches to exploring underground cenotes to climbing Maya pyramids and visiting colonial towns. Read on to discover the recommended itineraries and the best things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula.

You can visit all the places listed below via public transportation or rent a car and do a road trip.

Related – What to pack for a trip to the Riviera Maya

Travel Tip : Before any international trip, make sure to check visa requirements and get travel insurance .

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Getting to Cancun

Cancun has the biggest international airport in the region, which makes it the easiest starting and ending point. Cancun is famous for its beautiful beaches and party vibes. I personally don’t like Cancun, and I wouldn’t advise going there unless what you want is to party or go on an all-inclusive vacation.

Arriving at Cancun Airport you can head directly to Playa del Carmen or Tulum with an ADO bus. If you want to visit Cancun, stay in the Zona Hostelera, where the beaches and the parties are. To get there from the airport either a cab (there’s no Uber) or an ADO bus to the bus station in Cancun. Don’t take the taxis right in front of the bus station, walk to the main road to your right, where you can either catch a cheaper taxi (agree on the price first) or take the bus for only 10 pesos (it stops practically in front of every hotel).

What to do in Cancun

To visit the beaches just use public transportation. Towards the north, the sea is rougher and deeper faster ( Playa Delfines is one of my favorites). Towards the south, the water is quieter and shallower, better for swimming. At night, head to the party center, where all the bars, restaurants, and nightclubs are located. The most famous nightclub is Coco Bongo , half a club half a cabaret with live performances every night.

While in Cancun, make sure to visit a few Mayan archaeological sites!

Is Cancun safe?

More or less, it’s clearly not the safest destination in the Yucatan Peninsula, if you stay at your resort, you should be fine. Just keep your eyes open at night, especially in the party area, and do not buy drugs.

Is Cancun family-friendly?

While many people go there to party, many go only to enjoy the beaches. There are many family-friendly resorts you can stay at, even during Spring Break you can find kid-friendly activities.

Is Cancun budget-friendly?

No, but it can be if you don’t stay in the Zona Hostelera. You can book an Airbnb (or Couchsurf) in Cancun Old Town. Try to find one that’s close to the bus line heading to the beaches. In the old town, you’ll also find cheap restaurants and supermarkets.

How long to stay?

Some people spend their entire vacation in Cancun and only take day trips to nearby attractions. For this itinerary, spend 2 nights and one full day (more if your flight is early), and then next head to Playa del Carmen.

Playa del Carmen

From Cancun, you can either take a Colectivo (van) or an ADO bus. The vans are faster and cheaper, but the buses are more comfortable. They both leave from the bus terminal.

Where to stay in Playa del Carmen

Stay near the beach and 5th Avenue. Towards the north, big all-inclusive resorts and southwards, villas, and bungalows on the beach. There are also a couple of budget accommodations in this area, but without the beachfront.

What to do in Playa del Carmen

Like in Cancun, beaches and parties are the main things to do in Playa del Carmen . In Playa del Carmen, you can spend some time at the beach and stroll around 5th avenue in the evening. 5th avenue is where you’ll find all the shops, restaurants, and bars. It gets really lively at night. If you want to buy souvenirs don’t hesitate to haggle. Speaking some Spanish might help.

You should also check out Punta Esmeralda . You won’t find many tourists there, only locals know about this place. It’s a beach with a small open-air cenote. You can also plan to spend a day in Xcaret, a famous attraction park, where you can do all sorts of activities.

There are many beaches and open-air cenotes you can visit along the Playa del Carmen – Tulum road. For each of them, you can take a collectivo to reach your destination. If you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll find some of the best cenotes for scuba diving near Playa Del Carmen , such as Dos Ojos, El Pit, or Tajma Ha.

Among the most beautiful beaches are Akumal, Xcacel, Xpu-Ha, Saasil Kantenah, and Chemuyil . Bring a mask and snorkel, as you can easily snorkel off most beaches. The prettiest cenotes are Cenote Escondido, Taak Bi Ha, Media Luna, and Dos Ojos . Some of them are closer to Tulum than Playa del Carmen, so you can wait to be in Tulum to visit them.

Playa Del Carmen is also one of the best spots in the Riviera Maya to go diving from.

Related – Beach break packing list

Is Playa del Carmen safe?

Again, more or less, during the day, it’s fine, just be careful late at night in the bars and nightclubs. If you go to a beach with not many people around, keep an eye on your stuff.

Is Playa del Carmen family-friendly?

Playa del Carmen is definitely more family-friendly than Cancun. You can easily stroll around the 5th Avenue with children at night, and you can easily find a stretch of sand (away from the big concrete resort area) without anyone being drunk. There are plenty of fun things to do with kids in Playa Del Carmen.

Is Playa del Carmen budget-friendly?

Like in Cancun, if you go farther away from the “tourist” area, you’ll find cheaper accommodations and food options.

How long to stay in Playa del Carmen

You can spend a day in the city, then the next exploring maybe a beach and two cenotes. If you have more time, you can visit more of the beaches and cenotes or spend a day in Xcaret.

Related – 9 Incredible Beachfront Airbnbs in Playa del Carmen

Same as for Cancun-Playa del Carmen, you can take a collectivo or a bus to reach Tulum.

What to do in Tulum

Tulum has quickly become a hotspot for travelers, it grew tremendously in the last few years, to accommodate more and more tourists. You will find many things to do in Tulum.

There you can visit the Maya ruins , the only ones in Mexico built on the seaside. If it’s the first Maya site you visit, I advise taking a guide so you can learn everything about the Maya culture and the ruins. You can also visit some of the cenotes nearby, such as Labnaha, Gran Cenote, and Zacil-Ha.

You cannot miss the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve either. The reserve is full of birds (and crocodiles so be careful), it’s mostly mangrove. You can either book a tour from Tulum, and you’ll go around the reserve on a boat, or you can drive to Punta Allen, where you’ll see beautiful beaches on one side and the mangrove on the other.

If you need to relax and want to try a unique experience, make sure to check out a Holistic Healing Spa or maybe join a yoga retreat at Tribal Tulum .

Is Tulum safe?

Tulum partly became a tourist destination because it’s deemed safer than Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Common sense applies, but apart from having to watch your belongings, you should be fine.

Is Tulum family-friendly?

Yes! Kids will love the cenotes and the ruins. It’s also a more low-key/hippie atmosphere. There’s still a lot of parting going on but not to the same extent as other destinations.

Is Tulum budget-friendly?

Contrary to Playa del Carmen and Cancun, Tulum hasn’t been invaded by huge concrete resorts and has kept a more local vibe. So yes, it’s possible to visit Tulum on a budget .

It’s a backpacker’s heaven, with many budget travelers skipping Playa del Carmen and Cancun and heading straight to Cancun. It’s actually what I recommend if you’re looking for a more authentic vacation.

How long to stay in Tulum?

You can spend a day exploring the ruins and maybe a cenote or two, then the next day head to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Tulum is a nice destination to spend a few more days if you have time for it.

From Tulum, there’s an ADO bus once a day heading to Mahahual in the evening.

What to do in Mahahual

In Mahahual you’ll feel like you have just arrived at the end of the world. This peaceful and slow-paced village is the best place to spend a couple of days, relaxing at the beach. Oriented towards tourism, you’ll find everything you need there without the crowds of tourists you’ll see in other beach-destinations in Mexico. Apart from the beach and going snorkeling there’s not much more to do in Mahahual. Check before going if there’s seaweed at the moment or not. It’s not worth the trip if the water and the beach are full of stinky seaweed.

Is Mahahual safe?

Yes, it’s a small village, quiet and miles away from the cartels and other problems Mexico is facing.

Is Mahahual family-friendly? budget-friendly?

Mahahual is more of a backpacker destination where you’ll find cheap hostels, cheap food, and cheap beer. There are a couple of hotels more adapted to families and the vibe is relaxed, so even if not per-say, a family destination, you still can go with children, but apart from the beach, there’s not more to do for children so they might get bored easily.

How long to stay in Mahahual

If you’re on a tight schedule, you can just spend a night there. If you have more time and like to relax at the beach, you can stay a few days longer.

From Tulum you can catch a bus to Bacalar, ADO buses are the most comfortable but also the most expensive. There are other companies doing the trip, but check how long they take to reach Bacalar as sometimes they stop in every village. There are not that many buses making the trip so check the schedule and maybe book it the day before.

From Mahahual, there are two daily ADO buses heading to Bacalar.

What to do in Bacalar

Bacalar is my favorite place in Mexico. The lagoon is stunning, there are not many places like this in the world. try to find a hotel with access to the lagoon so you can enjoy it fully.

There are plenty of things to do in Bacalar , and most activities revolve around the lagoon. Most entrances are private and you’ll need to pay a small fee. Some are better than others. For a public and free one, type “ Acceso Publico a La Laguna ” in Google Maps, it’s near the main plaza. If you want a place with a bit of “beach”, go to “ Parque Ecologico Laguna Bacalar “, you’ll have to pay an entrance fee but the place is nice and quiet.

You can also go on a boat tour to visit more of the lagoon. There are a couple of nice spots as well as a cenote. You should also rent a bike and head to Cenote Azul , stopping along the way.

Is Bacalar safe?

During the day yes, after 9 PM avoid going out, especially alone.

Is Bacalar family-friendly?

All the activities there are kid-friendly, but it’s more of a backpacker town. You can find a couple of higher-end hotels and a few guesthouses that are great for families though.

Is Bacalar budget-friendly?

Yes, you can easily rent a tent for less than 10 US a night. The tours on the lagoon are also usually cheap, and you can find plenty of cheap food options.

How long to stay in Bacalar?

I would recommend staying at least 3 days to fully enjoy the place, but you also just spend a day, doing the boat tour or just hanging out at the lagoon.

Bacalar-Merida is the longest distance in this itinerary, it takes around 5 hours. Take an ADO bus, the others take way more time. Book your ticket at least a day before.

What to do in Merida

A stunning colonial city full of beautiful sights, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Merida . There, you can visit the historic center , don’t miss the cathedral and the city’s main plaza . There, you can visit the Fernando García Ponce Museum showcasing contemporary art in a colonial building, and the Casa Montejo Museum , a cultural museum set in a historical house.

From there, head to the Parque Santa Lucia then the Parque de Santa Ana . Both are great places at night, with some of the best restaurants in Merida and traditional Maya dance performances. Then stroll around the Paseo de Montejo , said to resemble the Champs Elysées in Paris. There are two House-Museums you can visit on the avenue.

If you’re interested in the Maya culture, you can visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya in the northern part of the city (you can take an Uber to it).

There are also a lot of things to do around Merida. A couple of Mayan sites you can visit include Mayapan , Uxmal (UNESCO) and the Ruta Puuc . You can reach Mayapan and Uxmal via public transportation, and every Sunday, ADO has a bus doing a tour of Uxmal and the four sites along the Ruta Puuc.

You shouldn’t miss Izamal , also known as the yellow city. There, you can stroll around the golden streets, visit the convent and climb Yucatan’s widest Maya pyramid.

Related article – Izamal Complete Travel Guide

You can also spend a day in Homun , a municipality home to no more than 30 visitable cenotes. You can take a collectivo to Homun then hire a type of tuktuk to take you to the cenotes.

Progresso and Sisal are two nearby beaches you can visit as a day trip from Merida. It’s the Gulf of Mexico so it’s not as nice as the Caribbeans. If you have to choose one, I would advise going to Sisal. It’s more of a village vibe as Progresso is more touristy, and the beach in Sisal is wilder.

If you have more time, you can make a detour to Celestun . You’ll have to spend at least a night there. There you should take a boat tour to the Celestun Biosphere Reserve to see birds and the mangrove.

Is Merida safe?

Yes, Merida is the safest city in Mexico, you can walk around drunk at 2 am and nothing will happen to you.

Is Merida family-friendly?

Yes, Merida is probably the most family-friendly destination in this itinerary. Apart from being super safe, there are tons of family-friendly hotels. Kids will love visiting the old colonial houses and the Maya sites.

Is Merida budget-friendly?

Merida can definitely be a good place for budget-traveler. There are many hostels within the Historic Center as well as a couple of cheap guesthouses. Eating in the “nice” restaurants can be a bit pricey, but you’ll find a lot of street food and cheap eateries, even in the center.

How long to stay in Merida

You can spend a day visiting the city, then another one in Uxmal (and the Ruta Puuk if you have a car or are there on a Sunday). On the third day, don’t miss Izamal, Yucatan’s cutest town. If you’re not tired yet of cenotes, you can spend a fourth day visiting Homun. If you have more than 2 weeks to visit the Yucatan Peninsula, do take two days to visit Celestun.

Getting to Valladolid from Merida is simple and fast. You can take an ADO bus from Merida bus station (CAME) in the city center that will leave you in Valladoli’s city center. Be careful when booking your ticket to and from Merida as there are at least 10 ADO bus stations within the city. The one you want is either CAME or TAME, both are right next to each other and close to the historic center.

If you’re traveling light, on your way to Valladolid, you can stop to visit Chichen Itza, so you don’t have to come back later.

What to do in Valladolid

The historic center is pretty small, and you can visit everything on foot. From the main plaza head to the San Bernardino de Siena Convent , and you will have seen everything. At night, during weekends and holidays, they organize a light show at the convent, it’s in Spanish but it’s worth seeing even if you don’t understand.

Valladolid is also famous for its many cenotes. You can rent a bike (or a cab) to visit them. Among the nicest ones are Cenote Zaci (right in the city center), Cenote Suytun , and Oxman Cenote .

Related article – Valladolid most beautiful cenotes.

Chichen Itza is the main attraction in the area. It was the first Maya site I visited, so I loved it, but I’ve talked to many people you were disappointed. Because it’s so touristy, you cannot climb the pyramid anymore (you can in most other sites), and it’s full of souvenir vendors harassing you. I think it’s still a must-see as it’s so famous.

Another nearby Maya site, less frequented is Ek Balam . You can easily reach it from Valladolid taking a shared cab. Apart from the ruins, there’s also a cenote you can go to ( Xcanch ). The ruins are well preserved with several pyramids. On the main one, spectacular carvings and breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.

If you have a car, after visiting Ek Balam, you can drive all the way to Las Coloradas to see the pink lakes (the lakes are not always pink, depending on the weather and season, so make sure to ask before heading there to avoid being disappointed).

Is Valladolid safe?

Yucatan State is usually way safer than its neighbor, Quintana Roo. Valladolid is a small city, quiet and safe. You can walk around at night and don’t have to be over-cautious all the time.

Is Valladolid family-friendly?

Yes, you can find plenty of nice hotels, and again the kids will love the cenotes, the ruins, and the light show at the convent.

Is Valladolid budget-friendly?

Yes, there are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels, as well as cheap restaurants. You can easily get everywhere via public transportation. The only “expensive” things would be the entrance to Chichen Itza and to Ek Balam (around 20 US each).

How long to stay in Valladolid?

Staying three days would be perfect but if you are short on time you can squeeze most of it in 2 days. You can visit Chichen Itza on the first day and stroll around the city when you get back. On the second day, you can visit Ek Balam in the morning and one or two cenotes in the afternoon.

Holbox Island

From Valladolid, you can take a bus to Chiquila then a ferry. If you have rented a car, you can leave it in one of the many parking in Chiquila.

What to do in Holbox

Holbox will be the highlight of your trip to the Yucatan Peninsula. There are tons of things to do there. The island is big but only a small part is inhabited, the rest is mostly mangrove and is part of the Yum Balam Protected Area . Holbox is a small village with no concrete roads and hence no cars. The vibe is laid back and authentic.

There you can rent a bike or a gulf cart to go to Punta Coco , the island’s most beautiful beach. In the other direction, you can trek to Punta Mosquito . At night, you can go on a tour to swim with bioluminescent plankton (don’t trust the photos you’ll see, it’s photoshopped, the sea won’t look like a sky full of stars, the plankton is only luminescent upon contact).

You can also take a boat or kayak tour to the reserve, which is stunning. If the boat tour, you’ll go snorkeling to see rays and turtles, and you might also see dolphins (and crocodiles).

Related article – Epic things to do in Holbox

Is Holbox safe?

Yes, it is. The only thing you have to be careful about is cash, there’s only one ATM on the island, and it’s often empty. Most places don’t accept credit cards.

Is Holbox family-friendly?

Yes, you’ll find all sorts of hotel options. The kids will love the boat ride through the reserve, swimming with plankton, and the sea is quiet, so they can swim safely.

Is Holbox budget-friendly?

Yes, you can find a bed in a dorm with air-con for less than 10 US and a hotel around for around 15 US. Because it’s an island food is a bit more expensive but shop at the grocery and cook. In the evening, in the main square, you’ll find plenty of cheap street food.

How long to stay in Holbox

To be worth it, I’ll advise staying at least three full days. You can go to Coco Beach and Punta Mosquito the first day, take a tour of the reserve the second and on the third go island hopping, or spend a day relaxing at the beach.

When you’re done in Holbox, head back to Cancun, where you’ll take your flight home.

Recommended Yucatan Peninsula itineraries

2-week sample itinerary – see the main highlights.

Playa del Carmen – 2D/3N Tulum – 3D/2N Bacalar – 2D/3N Merida – 4D/4N Valladolid – 2D/2N

From Cancun, head directly to Playa del Carmen, where you’ll have two full days. On the third, in the morning head to Tulum, where you’ll spend three days. On the evening on the third day, head to Bacalar. After Bacalar, go to Merida, you’ll lose a day in transportation, so you’ll have 3 full days to explore the city and its surroundings. Spend your last 2 days in Valladolid.

You can also skip Playa del Carmen, head directly to Tulum and finish your trip in Holbox.

4-week sample itinerary – See everything

Cancun – 1D/2N Playa del Carmen – 2D/2N Tulum – 4D/3N Mahahual – 2D/3N Bacalar – 3D/3N Merida – 4D/4N Celestun – 2D/2N Valladolid – 4D/4N Holbox – 4D/4N Cancun – 1N

Travel tips for traveling in the Yucatan Peninsula

What to pack.

• Reef safe sunscreen (most cenotes and beaches don’t allow sunscreen unless it’s biodegradable and reef-safe).
• Mosquito repellent : a natural one for the cenotes and a stronger one for other occasions (FYI the OFF!, the orange one, is forbidden in the European Union because it’s cancerogenic). You can also soak your clothes with a special repellent before leaving home.
• Beach attire (if you have space, snorkeling gear).
• A classy outfit to go out at night.
• Covering but light clothing.
• At night, it can be chilly, so bring a light jacket. (the ADO buses are also crazy-cold)
• You don’t have to overpack with clothes, you’ll find plenty of places that can wash your clothes within the day.
• An action camera or a waterproof case for your phone.
• Good walking shoes and a pair of sandals.
• Something for the rain.

Weather and best time to go

Theoretically, there’s a rainy season and a dry season, but climate change is completely messing this up. You could be there during the rainy season and not get a drop of rain or be there during the dry season and have rain every day. The most popular times to go are in December or July., but you can really visit the Yucatan Peninsula year-round.

The only thing worth checking is the seaweed situation, there’s some type of seasonality but it’s hard to predict. You can check if you plan your vacation last minute, but if you book it in advance its a gamble. You can usually still find beaches without seaweed and you might have to focus your vacation less on beaches and more on Maya sites and cenotes.

You’ll always find cheap accommodations and food. You can further save on these using Couchsurfing and cooking (read how I traveled for 2 months in Mexico with only 650 US ).

What is going to cost you are transportation and tours. For transportation, avoid the ADO buses, and take the slowest, cheapest buses. Another option is to hitchhike, which is fine if you’re a group. Alternatively, you can check out BlablaCar, a carpooling app, where prices are usually half the price of the bus.

As for the tours, most of the places, you can visit on your own, but others you won’t have a choice but to take a tour. Don’t hesitate to ask the price to different tour operators, and try to find people to go with you, the more you are, the cheaper it gets per person.

Renting a car and driving tips

• If you’re going to rent a car, pick an international franchise. Check the vehicle well and take photos before leaving with it.
• Make sure your accommodation has fenced parking spots.
• Roads are good just beware of speed bumps. There are tons of them, sometimes even in the middle of the highway.
• The toll route from Merida to Cancun is crazy-expensive.
• Beware of the municipal police trying to get a bribe out of you. If they ever stop you and ask for money call the state police (911) or the Tourist Police.

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The Ultimate Road Trip Through the Yucatán, Mexico

Northern England Writer

Road trips are the perfect intermediary between full-blown package holidays and run-of-the-mill backpacking. From the beaches of Cancun across to Chichen Itza and Merida , with yoga in Tulum and partying in Playa del Carmen – choose a road trip to suit you with our guide to the Yucatan Peninsula and the region’s must-visit spots.

Let us do the planning for you and book Culture Trip’s nine-day Yucatán Peninsula tour , with all the best highlights of the region showcased by our Local Insider.

Where to start

Flying into Cancún, which often has cheap fares, is the best way to kick off your Yucatán road trip. You can hire your vehicle there.

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After you’ve spent time in Cancún, you’ll want to head north up the coast, with possible stop-offs at the Yum Balam Nature Reserve , home to jungle cats and whale sharks, before popping over to Isla Holbox. After this, you’ll be ready to cross from Quintana Roo into Yucatán, sticking to the coast and heading for Río Lagartos, a small fishing village 30 minutes from the pink lakes of Las Coloradas. It’s worth making sure you have plenty of cash, as there are no ATMs in the village and cards are rarely accepted.

Go further into Yucatán

Once you’ve got your Instagram-friendly fill of this northernmost part of the Yucatán Peninsula, head slightly further inland, down to the small pueblo mágico of Valladolid. Here you can take a cooling dip in cenotes, try out the Mayan treat marquesitas in the central square and relax. It’s also the ideal base for an exploration of the Chichen Itzá ruins, or a day trip to the yellow town Izamal.

After you’ve explored in and around the state of Yucatán, head towards the state capital, Mérida. This quaint, but often oppressively hot, city is well worth a few days of your time, as there are plenty of fascinating museums to explore and a wealth of architecturally interesting spots, plus a day trip to the Uxmal ruins. We recommend enjoying a calming cup of tea at the out-of-the-way El Hoyo: Casa de Té, before taking in the historic center on foot or reading a book in the quirky lovers’ chairs . Every Friday night on Calle 60 you can catch a re-enactment of the Mesoamerican ball game. You should also explore each and every market you see, and try some of the Yucatán Peninsula’s wonderful cuisine – especially panuchos and cochinita pibil.

Once you tire of Mérida (which might take a while), it’s time to head down into Campeche. However, it’s worth mentioning that if you want to see some more Yucatán coastline before you leave, the sleepy town of Progreso is a 40-minute drive from Mérida and could be slotted in before Campeche. The first port of call should be Celestún, where you can see breath-taking numbers of flamingos and take a mangrove boat ride. From there, head to the walled city of Campeche, check out the fortifications and stroll along the seafront. It’s a beautiful, relaxing spot full of tranquil, pastel-painted streets that will take your breath away.

Back to Quintana Roo

After Campeche city, you’ll have around a six-hour drive to Chetumal, back in Quintana Roo. It’s right on the border with Belize, so you could ditch the car for a few days and explore the only country in Latin America that has English as its first language. If you’d prefer to stick to Mexico, explore the cafes, bars and museums of this small city for a few days before moving on to Bacalar. Famed for its seven-toned lake, Bacalar has much more to offer, from pirate museums to sun-bleached houses and zip line adventure options. However you spend your time, the lake is unmissable.

Once you’ve explored Bacalar, it’s time to move up the coast again, this time towards Tulum. The once sleepy beach town is now a backpacker favorite and is most accessible to those with a car, making it ideal for a road trip. Here, you can lounge on the white-sand beaches, drive or cycle to the many nearby cenotes and double back on yourself slightly for a quick day trip to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve or turtle hotspot Akumal. There’s also the option to visit the Cobá Ruins and, of course, the Tulum Ruins, before hopping over to Cozumel island if you fancy world-class snorkeling or diving. After that, it’s time to drive towards Cancún, with another optional stop-off in Playa del Carmen for partying and sunbathing before catching your flight back out of Cancún airport.

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Yucatán itinerary: Make the perfect road trip on the peninsula

Looking for a nice holiday destination where you have one sun, sea and beach, but at the same time can also do cool things and make a nice road trip? The Yucatán peninsula in Mexico is the ideal destination. The Yucatán peninsula is located in the south of Mexico and is about 3.5 times the size of the Netherlands. The region is excellent for discovering by rental car. We ourselves stayed in Yucatán for five weeks and we made a road trip of three weeks. We discovered the most beautiful bounty beaches and islands, climbed beautiful Maya temples, wandered through authentic, colorful Mexican cities, swam with sea turtles, spot flamingos and enjoyed the Mexican cuisine. Are you looking for a route for Mexico? With this ideal itinerary for 3 weeks Yucatán you can see the most beautiful of southern Mexico. This route is also possible in two weeks.

Traveling by rental car through Mexico (Yucatán)

In total we stayed in Yucatán for more than five weeks, but we rented a car for three weeks via Alamo . For less than €20 per day we had absolute freedom and were able to stop anywhere we wanted. Although public transport is also well organized in Mexico (the ADO bus company is well organized and runs regularly between a lot of places in Mexico), traveling by car gives you way more flexibility in the places you visit. Some destinations, such as Las Coloradas (recommended!) Are difficult to reach by public transport and if you figure out how to get there by bus, it’s still a very long drive. Traffic in Mexico is not very challenging, so I can assure you it’s worth to rent a car in Mexico!

Yucatán itinerary: 3 weeks road tripping

Internet and GPS on the road trip

On our Mexican road trip we bought a sim card with prepaid internet. These cards can be bought at the store of one of the providers, which can be found everywhere. If there’s a mall close to you, chances are you will find a few stalls over there. Having the ability to use Google Maps to find the way to your next destination is a tremendous help! The signs aren’t always as clear, so without proper guidance it’s pretty easy to get lost. Besides having internet to use your phone as navigation , it’s always handy to find things to do on the way, book your next accommodation or stream music. Road trips aren’t the same as a decade ago. We always use a VPN while traveling, because a VPN ensures a secure connection .  Besides a safe connection, it allows us to stream our favorite TV shows everywhere in the world:)

Arrival in Cancún

Cancún is a huge city with many shopping malls and resorts. Although Cancún is not the favorite destination in Mexico for many people, it is a good starting point for your Yucatán road trip. We ourselves stayed a few days in Cancún because we had some work to do and just wanted to chill, but one day is basically enough. I advise you not to stay on the beach – in the Zona Hoteleria – but in the center of Cancún. We read that a lot of people really don’t like downtown Cancún, but we didn’t mind it at all. At least you have the feeling of being in Mexico instead ‘Yucatán Tourist Capital’. Especially if it’s the first time you’re in Mexico, it’s a good place to get used to the country. We booked a nice Airbnb ( Click here for a discount on your first booking ).

Renting a car in Cancún

In Cancún you can choose to pick up your rental car at the airport or in the city center. In general it is cheaper to pick up your car in Cancún City. We did some research before going with a rental company and decided on Alamo . Pricing on their website is the most straightforward. You will notice when you are looking for a rental company that a lot of place have offers like “Rent a car for $5”. Don’t fall for this trick because you also have to pay for a mandatory insurance which will cost you at least $10 per day more, depending on the rental company. Alamo has clear pricing and also when I went to arrange the rental, everything was clear and the people were nice.

Apparently, our car had a bad tire which we only found out later on our road trip. When I went to the Alamo office in Tulum, they made some calls and changed our tire on the spot without charge. Pretty differeny from all the stories you read, right? At the time of writing, Alamo has one office in Downtown Cancún. It’s located in the La Quinta Inn Hotel, check it on the map at the beginning of this article

Isla Holbox

From Cancún we drive in two to three hours to the coastal town of Chiquilá from where we take the boat to the tropical island Isla Holbox . Isla Holbox is an island located in the Gulf of Mexico. Cars are not allowed here, but the island is bustling with golf carts (not electric ones, unfortunately). Your rental car can be parked in Chiquilá for 100 pesos per day. Holbox is a tropical island with beautiful beaches, colorful hammocks in the sea, great street art and a great vibe. Do not expect an undiscovered paradise, yet it is nice to spend a day or two on the island.

Overnightn on Isla Holbox: Accommodations on Isla Holbox are generally more expensive than on the mainland of Mexico, so it is a good idea to book your accommodation in advance at Booking or Agoda to get the best deals. We stayed in Los Arcos which is an excellent, affordable option.

Valladolid: The oldest colonial city of Yucatán

Las Coloradas and Ek Balam

Chichen Itza: The world wonder of Mexico

Valladolid is the perfect starting point for a visit to one of the modern seven wonders of the world, Chichen Itza . The drive from Valladolid to Chichen Itza takes less than an hour. It is busy, so try to be there as early as possible. You can combine your visit to Chichen Itza with a refreshing dip in the nearby Cenote Ik-Kil.

The yellow city of Izamal

Mérida: The capital of Yucatán

Uxmal and Kabah

More than an hour’s drive south of Mérida We stop at Uxmal, one of the coolest Mayan temples in Yucatán we visited. From the pyramid that can be climbed you have a fantastic view over the jungle and other buildings. After Uxmal we make a short stop at a virtually unknown Maya temple near the start of the Puuc route, Kabah. There are almost no visitors at this temple which makes it extra special.

The bluest lake of Yucatán: Bacalar

After the Mayan sites around Xpujil we drive the same day to Bacalar at the Laguna Bacalar , a huge lake where it is wonderful to stay. Bacalar is without doubt our favorite destination in Yucatán. The lake is beautiful with dozens of different shades of blue. There are three cenotes around the lake. Bacalar is becoming increasingly popular, but is currently not overloaded with tourists. You’ll find the finest restaurants in and around the center.

Staying in Bacalar: In Bacalar there are several options to stay overnight. The best thing is of course on the lake, but these accommodations are also the most expensive and often fully booked. If you want to sleep here, I advise you to book in advance via booking.com . We slept in Hotel Balche. From here it is about 15 minutes walk to the center of Bacalar. The lake is closer. The rooms are super nice. Spacious, clean and a cozy shared seating area. The owner is a very nice American guy, so no English is no issue. I advise you to stay in Bacalar for at least three nights.

We styed in Mahahual, so technically we have to include it in the Yucatán itinerary, however, we really didn’t like it. The town is mainly used as a harbour for the cruise ships, so the place is crowded with middle aged Americans spending their money in the souvenir shops. To be fair, we haven’t been in the town center itself, but only on the coast, where all tourist activity takes place. Our accommodation wasn’t the greatest, so if you decide to stay there, we recommend Palmeras de Mahahual , run by a young couple. The place is new and very tidy.

Tulum: The hippie paradise of Mexico?

After the setback in Mahahual we drive to Tulum . The Tulum recommended by every travel guide and travel blog as the hippie paradise of Mexico. Although it has cool street art, nice restaurants and an amazing beach, Tulum is not a hippie paradise. It is very busy, the prices are high and the beach is difficult to reach since the coastline is almost completely crammed with expensive resorts, beach bars and restaurants. The center is full of souvenir shops that all ask for much too high prices and the same goes for the restaurants. I’m not saying Tulum is worth skipping, but one or two nights would be enough for Tulum. You may think differently about the place, of course. Let it know in the comments what you think of Tulum if you’ve been there. From Tulum you can visit some cool cenotes and the Mayan temple Cobá.

Swimming with sea turtles in Akumal

Playa del Carmen

We returned our rental car in Playa del Carmen. Alamo allows you to choose a different drop off location when you pick up the car, so that’s convenient. We choose to stay in Playa del Carmen the last week and a half of our trip through Mexico. Not because it is an authentic destination, but mainly because the prices here are a bit lower than in Tulum and we have already seen Cancún and it is still reasonably close to the airport. We spend the night in a super spacious apartment with swimming pool for €25 per night. Do you enjoy diving? Then you can take the boat from Playa del Carmen to the island of Isla Cozumel. This seems to be one of the best diving spots in Mexico. After more than five weeks of Mexico, we fly back to Amsterdam from Cancún.

Are you also planning on doing a road trip through the Yucatán peninsula? What’s your itinerary for Yucatán?

Read more about Mexico:

• Laguna Bacalar : What to do in Bacalar
• Pink Lakes at Las Coloradas
• Most amazing places on Holbox Island

3 berichten over “Yucatán itinerary: Make the perfect road trip on the peninsula”

Your itinerary is so inspiring! I'll probably just copy it ;) thank you!

Love your itinerary! What month of the year did you go? x

Thanks! Our trip was in February

Tip: Quintana Roo & Yucatán Round Trip | 16 days Itinerary

Are you planning a holiday to Mexico and don’t want to stay in an all-inclusive resort for two weeks? Below you will find our ultimate (car) itinerary for a round trip around Quintana Roo and Yucatán in Mexico . Quintana Roo and Yucatán are two states that are both located on the Yucatán peninsula. The two states are popular with travelers for the remains of the Mayan culture and obviously for its beautiful white beaches.

In total we spent sixteen days on the Yucatán peninsula. We rented a car via Europcar, as driving turned out to be fine, but more on that later. Below you will find our itinerary.

Table of Contents

Directly to the cities

• Isla Holbox
• Las Coloradas

Flying from Amsterdam to Cancun

We left for Cancun from Amsterdam. We booked a cheap ticket with Swiss Air for about € 430,- / $486 per person , 3 months in advance. As Swiss Air is a Swiss airline, we had a connection in Zurich. We finally landed in Cancun after thirteen hours of flight.

Cancun is the largest city of Quintana Roo and is divided into two parts: Cancun Center and the ‘Hotel Zone’. The Hotel zone is, as the name suggests, full of large resorts, hotels, shopping malls and nightlife. We don’t like all-in resorts and since there isn’t much else to do in Cancun, we decided to just spend the night in Ibis Cancun Centro and drive to Playa del Carmen to catch the boat to Cozumel early the next morning.

From Cancun via Playa del Carmen to Cozumel

We drove from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, where the boats to Cozumel depart. This was about an hour’s drive. Playa del Carmen is, just like Cancun, a popular seaside resort with tourists, that’s why we didn’t stay here either. The boat to Cozumel leaves from Playa del Carmen harbor, Terminal Marítima NAVEGA. There are several parking facilities around the harbor where you can park your car.

It’s a 5-minute walk from the parking lot to the harbor. There are several companies that offer a ferry to Cozumel. We chose Ultramar , the leading passenger transport company in Mexico, but you can also choose another company if their ferry departs earlier. The paid 380 pesos per person for the return trip. The ferry from Playa del Carmen departs every hour. You’ll reach your destination within 45 minutes: Cozumel.

Cozumel is Mexico’s largest island and is popular for diving and snorkeling. The island is also a popular port of call for cruise ships, because you can shop tax free. For us, diving was the main reason to visit Cozumel. We stayed here for two nights in the Beds Friends Hostel and that was more than enough. We rented a scooter from our hostel on the first day and explored the island. There are beautiful/unspoilt beaches on the northside of the island and a number of nice restaurants and bars where you can stop for a refreshing swim or a cold Corona. The second day was all about diving. We made two dives and finally saw a turtle again! Later that afternoon we strolled through the town, where you can find all kinds of restaurants and souvenir shops.

Tip: Wondering what to do on Cozumel? Click here to discover more !

From Cozumel (via Akumal) to Tulum

After spending two nights at Cozumel, it was time to continue our road trip. We took the ferry back to Playa del Carmen and drove to Tulum . Tulum is an ancient Mayan city in the state of Quintana Roo and is located on the Caribbean Sea. It’s a city where you can combine sightseeing and the beach! Like Cancun, Tulum is also divided into two parts: the center and the beach. There are plenty of stunning hotels and restaurants along the beach, but the prices here are higher than in the city center. We stayed in the center, in Aruma Hotel & Boutique .

We stayed four nights in Tulum and I would’ve liked to stay longer. There are lots of trendy restaurants and places where you can take cool Instagram photos! The atmosphere is very chill and it’s much less crowded compared to Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Five days in Tulum are more than enough for sightseeing, in combination with relaxing on the beach. This allows you to discover what the town has to offer and you also have time to chill out on the beach with nachos and a Sol.

Nice places to visit in and around Tulum are the Maya Ruins of Tulum, the Maya Ruins of Coba, Dos Ojos and other cenotes, Tulum beach, Playa Pescadores and Akumal Beach (snorkeling with turtles) . Nice beach clubs and restaurants in Tulum are Beach club Aura, CoCo and Azulik . All three can be found on the beach. Would you rather eat and sleep a bit cheaper? Pick a nice hotel in the city center and eat Mexican food in one of the side streets.

From Tulum to Mahahual

Our Mexico road trip continues to Mahahual , a small and quiet fishing village, 2.5 hours from Tulum. Mahahual is also in the state of Quintana Roo and has only about 2,000 inhabitants! There’s a part of the second largest living coral reef in the world just of the beach. This reef runs from Mexico all the way to Honduras. The eelgrass found here will increase your chances of encountering a turtle while snorkeling. If you have a little more time, you can get deeper into Xcalak. Here you have the opportunity to spot manatees while diving.

Besides snorkel lovers, Mahahual lives off cruise tourists. Every other day a number of very large cruise ships arrive, with the passengers spending one day in Mahahual. This difference is clearly visible in the village. We stayed one night in Mahahual. The first day when no cruise ship was moored, there was hardly anyone walking the streets, most restaurants and shops were closed, and we had the beach almost for ourselves. The second day a ship arrived and the whole village was mayhem! You could only use the beach beds if you had reserved them and all the restaurants were packed. Fun to see the difference, but if you can, you should avoid the cruise ship days. Luckily, we left for Bacalar after breakfast.

Besides snorkeling and chilling on the beach, there is not much to do in this small village. My advice is not to stay here for more than one night. We stayed in the Koox Matan Ka´an Hotel .

From Mahahual to Bacalar

I really liked Bacalar ! Our reason to travel to Bacalar was to see Laguna Bacalar with our own eyes. This lake is also called “La Laguna de los Siete Colores”, or the lake with seven shades of blue. It was about an hour and fifteen minutes’ drive from Mahahual to Bacalar.

You can opt for accommodation in Bacalar’s center or at the lake. Our accommodation was on the lake and had a splendid view. We could use canoes for free, which we could use to go to the other side of the lake. The lake was even more beautiful than on our side! Amazingly beautiful colors of blue and extraordinarily clear water, just amazing! Besides the beautiful and clear lake, Bacalar also has a nice, non-touristic and typical Mexican center where you can take a stroll. Another great activity in Bacalar is drift snorkeling at Rapidos de Bacalar and chill out at Los Cocalitos . You can eat proper food at La Piña and have breakfast at Enamora .

We stayed two nights in Bacalar and that’s enough to see and do everything. We stayed in Villas Karalv .

From Bacalar to Valladolid

Valladolid is found in the state of Yucatán and is a quintessential Mexican city. Colored houses, colored cars and live music on the streets. Awesome!

In order to drive from Bacalar to Valladolid, you have to drive north again. Altogether, the drive took about 3,5 hours, but it was definitely worth it! We stayed two nights in Valladolid, but I would’ve liked to stay another night.

The town is super cozy and there’s plenty to see in the vicinity, like the famous Chitchén Itzá (one of the most important Mayan cities where the pyramid of Kukulcán is located), the Suytun and the Ik Kil cenote and Ek Balam . We also drove from Valladolid to the pink lakes and flamingos of Las Coloradas , which was quite a drive but definitely worth a visit.

We stayed two nights in Valladolid in Gayser Apartments and were short on time for all the things we wanted to do and see, so I’d recommend staying at least three nights in Valladolid.

From Valladolid (via Coba) to Holbox

Isla Holbox is an island in the north of Quintana Roo and is surrounded by beautiful white beaches. Late May there’ s a (big) chance that you can snorkel with whale sharks. That’ s why we travelled to the island. To get to Holbox, you have to take the ferry from Chiquila, which is less than two hours’ drive from Valladolid and an easy ride. We took a detour via Coba , because we didn’t want to miss these Mayan ruins. There are two different types of ferries from Chiquila, but the prices are the same. We paid 140 pesos per person . The ferry leaves every hour, one on the hour and the other on the half hour. Basically, there’s a ferry leaving every half hour and for that reason it’s best to check which ferry leaves first.

When arriving at Isla Holbox you’ll immediately notice that there are no cars on the island. There are no paved roads either, so people use golf carts and bicycles. Grab or rent a bike at your accommodation to cycle around the island. Holbox is super colorful with all kinds of cool murals. They are extremely cool, and you definitely need to take pictures of them. Talking about pictures, the most famous Holbox photo spot can be found at Hotel Villas Tiburon : the Holbox hammocks!

Initially we were supposed to stay at Isla Holbox for three days, but because the high waves, there were no whale shark tours. That’s why we decided to leave a day earlier. Three days at Holbox is more than enough. You can cycle over the island in the morning and get a Sol or Corona on the beach in the afternoon. We stayed in accommodation Maria Carlota .

From Holbox to Isla Mujeres

We had bad luck at Holbox with the high waves, preventing us from doing a whale shark tour, so we decided to expand our itinerary and pay a visit to Isla Mujeres. We saw that whale sharks had already been spotted there and a tour organization on Isla Mujeres told us that the tours would probably take place. From Chiquila, where we had parked our car for 100 pesos a day , we drove back to Cancun in 1.5 hours and took the ferry to Isla Mujeres. We took the Ultramar (Puerto Juarez) ferry again. We paid 300 pesos per person for a return trip.

Isla Mujeres, literally translated as ‘women’s island’, is twenty minutes sailing off the coast of Cancun and is often visited for a daytrip. You’ll notice this as soon as you arrive! It is very crowded, there are tourists everywhere and it has a souvenir shop every few meters.

Personally, the island was a bit too touristy for my taste and when we were told that the whale shark tour wouldn’t happen here either (and diving also wasn’t possible), we had no idea what to do on Isla Mujeres. There isn’t really much more to the island than the beach, a turtle farm and some souvenir shops. As we didn’t have much time, we decided to spend our last day on the beach. Do you have more time? You can rent a scooter or golf cart and explore the other side of the island. Perhaps it’ll be quieter and less touristy there!

We slept here one night in accommodation Isla Caracol .

Isla Mujeres via Cancun to Amsterdam

Our Yucatán and Quintana Roo round trip had come to an end. By evening we took the ferry back to Cancun, where we spent our last evening in a Shopping Mall. We slept in Ibis Cancun Centro again, as we liked our first stay there. We dropped our car off at the airport the next morning and after that we flew back to Amsterdam via Houston in 13 hours.

Yucatán and Quintana Roo truly exceeded all our expectations. Anyone going to Cancun or Playa del Carmen and only staying at their all-inclusive resorts misses out on all the beauty the peninsula has to offer. Obviously, there are a lot of tourists in Cancun and Playa Del Carmen who don’t get out of their resort. But anyone who likes adventure can enjoy a lot of unique experiences by visiting the Mayan Ruins, Cenotes and typical Mexican towns!

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Mexico deal alert: Book United business-class fares to Cancun from $665 round-trip

We've seen several good fare sales to sun-drenched destinations recently. This new deal includes business-class fares on United Airlines to perennial vacation favorite Cancun, Mexico. If your travel budget allows for splurging on more comfortable seats with inflight extras like meals and drinks, this sale should be as appealing as Cancun's immaculate beaches.

There are several departure cities that are part of this sale, including Atlanta, Boston, Houston, Newark and Washington, D.C. The travel window stretches from May 2024 until February 2025. In some cases, like with flights out of Houston, booking a business-class seat is cheaper than buying an economy ticket and paying for a checked bag.

Related: Good food, new rooms, incredible views: A review of the Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe all-inclusive resort

Deal basics

Airline : United Airlines

Routes : Round-trip business-class flights from various U.S. cities to Cancun

How to book : Browse Google Flights, click "Business" in the drop-down menu, search routes and book directly with the airline

Travel dates : Availability varies but extends from April 2024 through February 2025, depending on the route

Sample flights

Departure airports with discounted business-class fares to Cancun International Airport (CUN) include:

• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• Dulles International Airport (IAD) near Washington, D.C.
• George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York City
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) near Washington, D.C.
• O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in Chicago

United has great availability on nonstop business-class fares out of Houston from May through July; tickets start at $665. Booking a business-class United seat out of Houston is actually cheaper than buying an economy-tier ticket and paying to check luggage.

Another discounted route we found in the Lone Star State was from the state capital. You can book business-class seats from Austin to Cancun in December for only $716 round-trip. We also saw good availability for this route in the fall.

If you live in the Northeast and want to celebrate the start of the school year, you can find business-class fares from Boston to Cancun for less than $700 round-trip. These flights include layovers, but that's an excellent price for this route at this time of year.

September was far and away the best month to find the lowest prices on business-class fares out of Boston.

When we searched for discounted fares out of the tri-state area, the best deals were for flights departing from Newark.

United has many business-class seats from Newark to Cancun throughout the travel window. You'll find fares are as low as $745 — a really good price for this route.

The best prices we saw out of Newark in this sale were in June, September and December.

Although we saw many nonstop flights, a few itineraries — like the December one below — include a layover on the return flight.

If LGA is a more convenient departure airport for you, the best prices we saw from New York City to Cancun were for travel in late April and early May. Keep in mind that almost all the discounted business-class fares from LGA include layovers.

May is also a great time to find a deal out of Washington, D.C. Check out this itinerary on United from IAD to CUN for just $782. According to Google Flights , business fares on this route usually cost more than $1,100.

Related: 14 best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun

Maximize your purchase

When you book this deal or any flights, be sure to use a credit card that earns bonus points on airfare purchases, such as:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : 2 points per dollar spent on travel
• American Express® Gold Card : 3 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through amextravel.com
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : 5 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 of these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar)
• Citi Premier® Card ( see rates and fees ): 3 points per dollar spent on airfare
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : 3 points per dollar spent on travel

Bottom line

This is a fairly volatile sale. We saw prices fluctuate for each route we checked several times, so don't delay too much before booking the route you want. As always, the more flexible your travel schedule, the better your chance of finding the best value.

Related reading:

• Here are the best current credit card welcome offers
• 7 things to understand about credit before applying for a new card
• How to apply for a credit card
• What is APR on a credit card?
• How to check your credit score for free