Cancun, a vibrant coastal city located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, is a popular destination for travellers from around the globe. With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rich cultural heritage, it's no wonder that so many people flock to this tropical paradise each year. However, with so many tours and activities on offer, it can be difficult to know where to start. That's where we come in. At BestTours.blog, we've done the legwork for you, meticulously researching and ranking the best tours in Cancun to help you make the most of your stay.
1. Xcaret Park: An Eco-Archaeological Wonderland
Xcaret Park, a sprawling eco-archaeological park located just south of Cancun, is a worth the trip for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the region. With its crystal-clear waters, lush jungle foliage, and ancient Mayan ruins, Xcaret offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is not to be missed.
- Price: Adult admission starts at 2,099 Mexican pesos (£85 GBP, $110 USD)
- Opening hours: Daily from 8:30 am to 10:30 pm
- Location: Carretera Chetumal Puerto Juárez Km 282, Solidaridad, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Xcaret Park offers a wide variety of activities and experiences, from snorkelling and swimming in underground rivers to exploring ancient Mayan ruins and watching traditional Mexican dance performances. Some of the park's most popular attractions include:
- Xcaret Plus: This upgrade option includes a buffet lunch, snorkelling gear, and access to the park's many amenities, such as lockers, changing rooms, and showers.
- Underground Rivers: Xcaret is home to several crystal-clear underground rivers that wind through the park's lush jungle landscapes. Visitors can float along on inner tubes, taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding flora and fauna.
- Mayan Ruins: The park features several ancient Mayan structures, including the remains of a Mayan temple and a traditional ball court.
- Cultural Performances: Xcaret offers a variety of traditional Mexican dance performances, including the renowned "Xcaret Mexico Espectacular," a handsome show that celebrates the country's rich cultural heritage.
2. Chichen Itza: A Mayan Marvel
No trip to Cancun would be complete without a visit to Chichen Itza, one of the most famous and best-preserved Mayan archaeological sites in the world. This awe-inspiring complex of ancient structures, located about two hours west of Cancun, is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Mayan civilisation.
- Price: Adult admission starts at 522 Mexican pesos (£21 GBP, $28 USD)
- Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Location: Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico
Here are some of the most impressive sights and experiences that Chichen Itza has to offer:
- El Castillo: Also known as the Temple of Kukulcan, this iconic step-pyramid is the most recognisable structure at Chichen Itza. It was built to honour the Mayan god Kukulcan and features intricate carvings and inscriptions that tell the story of the Mayan people.
- Great Ball Court: This massive sports complex, one of the largest in the ancient world, was used for a variety of ball games and rituals. It features carvings and inscriptions that depict scenes of sacrifice and ceremony.
- Sacred Cenote: This natural sinkhole, located just outside the main complex, was believed to be a sacred site by the Maya. It was used for ceremonial offerings and sacrifices, and visitors can still see the remains of some of these offerings at the bottom of the cenote.
3. Isla Mujeres: A Caribbean Gem
Just a short ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres (Island of Women) is a charming Caribbean island that offers a relaxed, laid-back alternative to the hustle and bustle of the mainland. With its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local culture, Isla Mujeres is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and soak up the sun.
- Price: Ferry tickets start at 300 Mexican pesos (£12 GBP, $16 USD) for a round trip
- Location: Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Here are some of the top things to see and do on Isla Mujeres:
- Playa Norte: This picturesque beach, located on the northern tip of the island, is known for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and handsome sunsets. It's the perfect place to relax and soak up the Caribbean vibes.
- Turtle Farm: This conservation centre, located on the southern end of the island, is dedicated to the protection and preservation of sea turtles. Visitors can learn about the life cycle of these incredible creatures and even help release hatchlings into the wild during nesting season.
- Garrafon Natural Reef Park: This eco-adventure park, located on the southern tip of the island, offers a variety of activities, including snorkelling, kayaking, and zip-lining. Visitors can explore the park's vibrant coral reefs and encounter a variety of colourful marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and stingrays.
What flights LON to CUN actually cost
Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Cheapest dates to fly
| Departure | Price | Airline | Stops | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21 Nov 2026 | €573 | TS | 1 stop | Check |
| 23 Nov 2026 | €573 | TS | 1 stop | Check |
| 7 Sept 2026 | €595 | BY | Direct | Check |
| 14 Nov 2026 | €610 | TS | 1 stop | Check |
| 18 Sept 2026 | €614 | TS | 1 stop | Check |
Live fares, checked 15 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.
Booking in Cancun: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- Tiqets — Instant mobile tickets for museums and landmarks
- Klook — Attraction tickets and passes, strong in Asia
- KKday — Local experiences and day tours
- Welcome Pickups — Fixed-price airport transfer, driver waits for you
Conclusion
Cancun is a vibrant and diverse destination that offers a wide range. Whether you're looking to explore ancient Mayan ruins, relax on pristine beaches, or immerse yourself in local culture, there's no shortage of tours and activities to choose from. At BestTours.blog, we're committed to helping you make the most of your stay in Cancun by providing unbiased, comprehensive rankings and reviews of the best tours and activities in the region. So why wait? Start planning your Cancun adventure today!
