7-day road trip to fall in love with the Mexican Caribbean
Guide to driving along the Riviera Maya
Day 1: Arrival in Cancun and pick up the car
Upon landing at Cancun International Airport, head to the Hertz Mexico counter to pick up your pre-reserved vehicle. Once you have the car, set up your GPS or your preferred navigation app… and let the adventure begin!
Cancún is famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. If time permits, spend the afternoon relaxing on Playa Delfines, one of the most famous beaches in the area, or explore Mercado 28, ideal for shopping for local crafts and souvenirs.
Day 2: Cancun to Playa del Carmen
Start your tour early in the morning with a destination in Playa del Carmen, located approximately one hour south of Cancún. This attractive coastal city is known for its lively Fifth Avenue, filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Take the opportunity to relax on the beach, sample the local cuisine, and explore the craft markets.
For an authentic culinary experience, consider joining a taco tour that will take you to taste local delicacies at iconic spots like Taquería El Fogón. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Fundadores Park, where you can enjoy cultural performances and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
Day 3: Excursion to Cozumel
From Playa del Carmen, take the ferry to Cozumel, an island famous for its coral reefs and spectacular snorkeling and diving. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes and is for passengers only, so you’ll need to leave your car parked in Playa del Carmen during the excursion.
Once on the island, you can join a guided excursion that includes snorkeling equipment and transportation to the best diving spots, such as Cozumel Reef National Park or El Cielo, an area of crystal-clear waters teeming with starfish. You can also rent a scooter or buggy to explore the island at your own pace, visit Chankanaab Park, or relax on one of the quiet beaches like Palancar or Playa Mia.
Day 4: Playa del Carmen to Tulum
Continue your journey south, heading to Tulum, about an hour away. Along the way, consider a stop at the Xel-Há eco-archaeological park, where you can swim in underground rivers and cenotes.
Renting a car in Cancun allows you to explore these hidden treasures at your own pace, without being tied to schedules or fixed routes. This type of trip allows you to connect more authentically with the destinations you discover.
Upon arrival in Tulum, start with a visit to its famous Mayan ruins, located on a cliff with privileged views of the Caribbean Sea. Then, take advantage of the afternoon to explore downtown Tulum or head to one of its most famous beaches, such as Playa Paraíso or Las Palmas. If you’re interested in nature, you can also visit a nearby cenote, such as Gran Cenote or Cenote Calavera.
Day 5: Cenotes and Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
Spend the morning exploring some of the stunning cenotes near Tulum, such as Gran Cenote, ideal for swimming and snorkeling, or Dos Ojos, one of the world’s most famous flooded cave systems, also perfect for certified divers.
In the afternoon, venture to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a protected area declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This reserve is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, where you can observe manatees, dolphins, turtles, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birds.
Due to the remoteness and ecological sensitivity of the location, it is advisable to book a tour with certified local guides.
Day 6: Tulum to Valladolid, with a visit to Chichén Itzá
Depart early for Valladolid, a picturesque colonial city located about two hours northwest of Tulum. Along the way, stop at Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and one of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites. Tour the impressive Kukulcán pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, the Ball Court, and other remains that bear witness to the splendor of the Mayan civilization.
Continue to Valladolid, where you can stroll through its colorful streets, visit the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, and explore Calzada de los Frailes, a charming cobblestone street lined with craft shops, galleries, and cafes.
Day 7: Return to Cancun
On your way back to Cancún, make one last stop in the magical town of Puerto Morelos. Its relaxed and authentic atmosphere is ideal for a quiet stroll along the beach, a visit to the leaning lighthouse, or a last meal by the sea.
Upon arrival in Cancun, if your flight is at night or the next day, take advantage of the opportunity to do some last-minute shopping or enjoy dinner overlooking the Nichupté Lagoon.
Then, return the car and say goodbye to this unforgettable road trip through one of Mexico’s most fascinating regions.
