Overview

Situated by the Caribbean Sea, Cancun and Riviera Maya are home to some of the finest white sand beaches lapped by shimmering turquoise waters. Yet the region's famous for more than its divine coastline, with well-preserved Mayan cities, exciting eco theme parks and renowned Mexican cuisine. Luxury Cancun and Riviera Maya holidays offer a lifetime of unique experiences.

Cancun and Riviera Maya sit along the coast of the famed Yucatan Peninsula. The city of Cancun is at the northern tip with the Riviera Maya stretching from Puerto Morelos south to the village of Punta Allen. This entire region features iconic beaches and Mayan ruins. You'll find lots of exciting activities too like jungle canopy tours and zip lines at parks like Xcaret, Xel-Ha and Selvatica.

Travel to Cancun and choose from 5-star luxury resorts and day trips to ancient Mayan cities like El Rey Archaeological Zone, providing tours of the past. Spend time exploring local boutiques at El Centro or visit a paradise island like Isla Contoy, a protected nature reserve with quiet beaches and exotic wildlife. Liven it up in the evening and enjoy Cancun's nightlife or take it slow with some salsa dancing. The city is a playground of opportunities.

Riviera Maya is the crown that the jewel of Cancun sits atop of. This long uninterrupted coastline of white powdery sands is heaven sent. The region is home to the dreamy port town of Puerto Morelos where blue waters are coloured with coral gardens designated as a Reef National Park. Enjoy interactive zoos and botanical gardens complete with spider monkeys.

When To Visit

You'll find hot weather all year round in Cancun and Riviera Maya with temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius and above. It's slightly cooler from November to March with temperatures sitting in the high 20s occasionally peaking into the low 30s.

The sun is usually at its hottest between August and October, giving you plenty of opportunities to lap up the Caribbean weather and get a nice tan.

Food & Drink

Recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, traditional Mexican cuisine is some of the best in the world. Enjoy delicious meals sampling local specialities like huevos rancheros, a breakfast of eggs with tortillas, tomatoes and chilli sauce, or alternatively, try sweet lime soup and papadzules, a creamy taco dish.

You'll also get to sample Asian fusion cooking, French specialities, international dishes, Italian a la carte menus and Mediterranean offerings. With fresh seafood and tender meat grills, fine dining is a staple of the Mexican diet.

Passport & Visas

As with any holiday, it's good to carry some identification with you at all times and to keep a photocopy of your passport. You don't need a visa to visit Mexico. You do need an immigration form available when you arrive or online in advance. Visit GOV.UK for more advice.