Cancun – Top Sites to Visit

Cancún is renowned for its many outdoor activities. White-sand beaches, golfing, diving and hiking are all on offer in and around the city. Visitors should note that many of the activities are offered at discounts when booked through local tour agencies, including various packages that include some of the top attractions. It is recommended to explore or purchase packages in advance to enjoy additional savings on your trip.

Interactive Aquarium Cancún

Located inside the Shopping Mall La Isla, this interactive aquarium includes a natural habitat that allows visitors to learn more about the ocean, it’s inhabitants and even swim with the dolphins! The aquarium includes more than 1,195 unique ocean species as well as an auditorium and interactive zone for children to explore. Visitors will experience the ability to touch various sea creatures including starfish and urchins. The aquarium also offers an underwater walking experience titled “Aquarium Trek”.

Address: La Isla Shopping Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 12.5, Zona Hotelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Phone: +52 998 251 6581
Operating Hours:
– Monday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Tuesday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Wednesday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Thursday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Friday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Saturday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Sunday 9:00am – 8:00pm
Admission Cost:
– General – $15 USD
Website

Cancún Ferris Wheel

Visitors can reach the sky and enjoy the tropical ambience of Cancún from above. Located in the heart of the city, the wheel is 70 meters in height, with each tour consisting of four laps and taking 15 to 20 minutes in total. Up to six passengers can fit in each cabin, with a maximum of five in VIP cabins. The attraction includes various packages available for visitors. The wheel is touted as one of the best locations in Cancún to watch the sunset as well as take in night views of the city.

Address: Blvd. Kukulcan km 12.5, La Isla, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R.
Phone: +52 55 4165 4052
Operating Hours:
– Monday 2:00pm – 10:00pm
– Tuesday 2:00pm – 10:00pm
– Wednesday 2:00pm – 10:00pm
– Thursday 2:00pm – 10:00pm
– Friday 2:00pm – 10:00pm
– Saturday 2:00pm – 10:00pm
– Sunday 2:00pm – 10:00pm
Admission Cost:
– Regular Ticket: $310 MXN
– VIP Ticket: $1580 MXN
Website

Isla Contoy

This small uninhabited island is located approximately 37 km from Cancún and is 8.5 km in length with an area of only 3.17 square kilometers. It is a national park and is a popular location for eco-tourism with only several tour companies having permits allowing visitation by tourists. The island is home to various species of turtles and is a sanctuary for 152 tropical marine birds. The maximum allowed tourist capacity is 200 per day, and visitors must apply for permission via an official tour agency in advance to visit the island.

Address: Contoy Island, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Phone: N/A
Operating Hours:
– Open 24 Hours
Admission Cost:
– Varies based on tour company fees (tour pass required for visitation)
Website

Parque Urbano Kabah

Located in the city center, this park is a small reserve that is full of native wildlife and vegetation. This city oasis includes various tourist attractions within it, including a loop trail, kids playground, museum, zoo, duck pond and a picnic area. Visitors to the park are able to see everything from birds including ducks and geese to turtles, spider monkeys and iguanas. The on-site museum inlcudes interesting photos showcasing the development of Cancún throughout the years.

Address: Av. Nichupté 13, Sin Nombre, 77534 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Phone: N/A
Operating Hours:
– Monday 6:00am – 1:00pm
– Tuesday 6:00am – 1:00pm
– Wednesday 6:00am – 1:00pm
– Thursday 6:00am – 1:00pm
– Friday 6:00am – 1:00pm
– Saturday 6:00am – 1:00pm
– Sunday Closed
Admission Cost:
– FREE
Website

Chichén Itzá

Listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza consists of various Mayan ruins in the north of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. El Castillo pyramid is one of the more famous structures and is located at the center of the site. It is estimated that the building of this area was done between 600 and 740 A.D. While visitors cannot climb the 98-foot El Castillo pyramid, the nearby Coba Ruins include Nohoc Mul, the largest Mayan Pyramid on the peninsula that can be climbed.

Address: Puerto Juarez, Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Phone: +1 888 2340 557
Operating Hours:
– Monday 8:00am – 4:00pm
– Tuesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
– Wednesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
– Thursday 8:00am – 4:00pm
– Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm
– Saturday 8:00am – 4:00pm
– Sunday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Admission Cost:
– General – $80 MXN
Website

Parque de las Palapas

Located in the city center, this main park offers various street vendors including those selling authentic Mexican food. Located only a short walk from Tulum Avenue, the park is considered a central hub of activity. The oldest church in Cancún, El Cristo Rey, is located at the edge of the park. A stage at the center of the park regularly plays host to local artists.  Parque de la Palapas is very family friendly, including a playground on site.

Address: 77500, Tulipanes LB, 22, Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Phone: N/A
Operating Hours:
– Open 24 hours
Admission Cost:
– FREE
Website