My Instagram friend, Gaspar Michel (known as cancunvacationsecrets on Instagram) kindly wrote me a blog post about what to do when travelers are staying at an all-inclusive resort but want to do something fun and/or adventurous in the Cancun or Riviera Maya areas of Mexico. Since he currently resides in Tulum and has been posting for some time about what to do and how to save money while on vacation in this part of Mexico, I thought a local would be the best source of info about how to have even more fun while vacationing at an all-inclusive property. So, please read on and find out what he thought would be helpful…
“When you think of Cancun, the first image that probably comes to mind is pristine beaches and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. While lounging by the pool with a refreshing drink in hand is undoubtedly tempting, there’s a whole world of adventure waiting just beyond the walls of your resort. Get ready to explore the rich cultural and natural wonders of Cancun with these ten thrilling activities that are worth stepping out of your comfort zone for.
- Chichén Itzá Tour: Unveiling Ancient Mysteries. Begin your journey with a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World–Chichén Itzá. Marvel at the ancient Mayan ruins, including the iconic Kukulkan Pyramid. A guided tour will take you through the fascinating history and architecture of this archaeological masterpiece.
- Tulum 5×1 Tour: A Coastal Gem. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Tulum with a 5×1 tour that covers the Tulum ruins, Coba, a cenote swim, Playa del Carmen, and a delicious local lunch. Tulum’s cliffside ruins against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea are a sight to behold.
- Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour: Sailing Into Paradise. Set sail on a catamaran to Isla Mujeres, where crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches await. Snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, enjoy a leisurely beach day, and savor a delicious buffet on this all-inclusive island-hopping adventure.
- Swim With Turtles In Akumal: Underwater Encounters. Dive into the turquoise waters of Akumal and swim alongside magnificent sea turtles. This eco-friendly experience allows you to appreciate the beauty of marine life while contributing to its conservation.
- Dolphin Discovery + Tour Isla Mujeres: Dolphins and Island Magic. Combine the excitement of swimming with dolphins with the enchanting charm of Isla Mujeres. This tour offers an unforgettable blend of marine encounters and the laid back atmosphere of this picturesque island.
- Garrafón Park on Isla Mujeres: Island Oasis. Escape to Garrafón Natural Reef Park for a day of adventure and relaxation. Soar through the air on a thrilling zip-line, snorkel in the vibrant reef, and unwind in a seaside hammock as you take in the stunning views.
- Jungle Tour & Speed Boat: Navigate the Nichupté Lagoon. Rev up your engines for a jungle tour and speed boat adventure through the scenic Nichupté Lagoon. Explore the mangroves, spot local wildlife, and feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate the waterways.
- Selvática ATV Double, Zip-Line & Cenote: Triple Thrills. Embark on an adrenaline-fueled journey through the jungle with ATV riding, zip-lining , and cenote exploration. This triple adventure promises an exhilarating day surrounded by the natural beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula.
- Cozumel Clear Boat Tour: Crystal Clear Views. Discover the underwater wonders of Cozumel from the comfort of a clear-bottom boat. Witness the vibrant marine life and colorful coral formations without getting wet, making it an ideal experience for all ages.
- Coco Bongo: A Night of Extravaganza. Conclude your Cancun escapade with a night of entertainment at Coco Bongo. This world famous nightclub offers a spectacular show featuring acrobatics, music, and a lively atmosphere that will leave you dancing until the early hours.
As far as tour companies selling these excursions, most of them are resellers and it’s so systematic that typically it doesn’t matter which one you use. I’ve used multiple companies and each has their pros and cons.”
Here are links to a couple of Mr. Michel’s Instagram “Shorts” which accompany this article (a Short is just a very brief Instagram Reel which highlights a particular subject matter).
As an aside, Mr. Michel is also a real estate agent in Tulum, so if you have any real estate questions or needs within the area you can send him a DM at gasparmicheltulumrealestate on Instagram.
What do you think? Have you taken any of these excursions or done any of these activities on your own?