Cancun

Cancun is a coastal city located in the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Cancun is divided into two main areas: the Hotel Zone and the Downtown area. The Hotel Zone is a narrow strip of land that runs along the coast and is home to many luxury hotels, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers. The Downtown area, also known as El Centro, is the commercial and residential center of Cancun and is where most of the local population lives and works.

In addition to its beaches, Cancun offers many attractions and activities for visitors. Some popular activities include visiting the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum, swimming with dolphins, snorkeling and scuba diving in the Great Mayan Reef, and exploring the natural beauty of Xcaret Eco Park.

Cancun is a beautiful and vibrant destination that offers something for everyone, from sunbathing on the beach to exploring ancient ruins and experiencing the local culture.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cancun is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 24-28 degrees Celsius). The sea is also calmer, making it a great time for water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming.

However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September to November. During these times, the weather is still warm and pleasant, but there may be occasional rain showers or storms.

The summer months of July and August can also be a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat and humidity. Just be aware that this is the rainy season, so there may be frequent thunderstorms and high humidity levels. Overall, the best time to visit Cancun depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip.

Best things to see and do

Cancun is a beautiful resort city in Mexico that attracts millions of visitors every year with its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Cancun:

Explore the beaches

Cancun has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Playa Delfines, Playa Chac Mool, and Playa Tortugas. You can sunbathe, swim, or try water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, or snorkeling.

Visit the Mayan ruins

The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, is home to many ancient Mayan ruins such as Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the Mayans.

Swim with the whale sharks

From June to September, you can take a boat trip to swim with the largest fish in the world, the whale shark. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Take a trip to Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a small island off the coast of Cancun that is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. You can take a ferry to the island and spend a day exploring.

Visit Xcaret Park

Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park where you can see wildlife, swim in underground rivers, and learn about the history and culture of Mexico.

Experience the nightlife

Cancun has a vibrant nightlife with many clubs, bars, and restaurants that stay open until the early hours of the morning. You can dance the night away to the sounds of salsa, reggaeton, or electronic music.

Go shopping

Cancun has many shopping malls and markets where you can find souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry. Some popular shopping destinations include La Isla Shopping Village, Plaza Las Americas, and Mercado 28.

Try the local cuisine

Mexican cuisine is famous for its spicy flavors, fresh seafood, and delicious street food. You can try dishes like tacos, ceviche, and churros at local restaurants and food stalls.

These are just some of the best things to see and do in Cancun. With its sunny climate, beautiful scenery, and rich culture, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Where to shop

Cancun is a popular tourist destination and offers plenty of shopping opportunities for visitors. Here are some places where you can shop in Cancun:

La Isla Shopping Village: This outdoor shopping mall is located in the Hotel Zone of Cancun and has over 150 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. You can find a wide range of products here, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and crafts.

Plaza Las Americas: This is one of the largest shopping malls in Cancun and is located in the downtown area. It has over 200 stores, a food court, movie theater, and other entertainment options.

Market 28: This is a traditional Mexican market where you can find a wide range of souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. It's located in downtown Cancun and is a popular spot for tourists.

Kukulcan Plaza: This shopping center is located in the Hotel Zone and offers a mix of high-end designer stores, boutiques, and restaurants.

Luxury Avenue: This high-end shopping center is located in the Hotel Zone and offers luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Ferragamo.

Coral Negro Market: This market is located in the Hotel Zone and is known for its large selection of souvenirs, clothing, and accessories at affordable prices.

Cancun has plenty of options for shopping, ranging from high-end designer stores to traditional markets.

Where to stay

Cancun offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Here are some popular areas to stay in Cancun:

Hotel Zone: This is the main tourist area of Cancun and is home to many of the city's large resorts and hotels. The Hotel Zone is located on a long, narrow strip of land that runs parallel to the beach, with the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Nichupte Lagoon on the other. This area offers easy access to the beach and a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options.

Downtown Cancun: This area is located away from the beach but offers a more authentic Mexican experience. Downtown Cancun has a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options, as well as local markets, restaurants, and shops.

Puerto Juarez: This area is located north of the Hotel Zone and offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It's home to several smaller hotels and offers easy access to Isla Mujeres, a nearby island with beautiful beaches.

PlayaMujeres: This area is located north of Cancun and offers a more secluded and exclusive experience. It's home to several luxury resorts and offers beautiful beaches and natural surroundings.

Riviera Maya: This area is located south of Cancun and offers a more relaxed and eco-friendly experience. It's home to several all-inclusive resorts and offers easy access to the Mayan ruins at Tulum and other natural attractions.

The best place to stay in Cancun depends on your preferences and budget. The Hotel Zone is a great option for those looking for easy access to the beach and a variety of entertainment options, while other areas offer a more relaxed and authentic Mexican experience.

How to get around

There are several options for getting around Cancun:

Public transportation: The most affordable option for getting around Cancun is by public transportation. The city has a reliable bus system that runs throughout the Hotel Zone and downtown area. The buses are air-conditioned and operate 24 hours a day. The fare is very reasonable and you can pay with cash or a rechargeable bus card called a 'Tarjeta Plus.'

Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout Cancun and are a convenient way to get around if you don't want to use public transportation. However, taxis in Cancun are not metered, so it's important to negotiate the fare before getting in. It's also a good idea to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the ride.

Rental cars: If you prefer to have your own vehicle, rental cars are available at the Cancun airport and throughout the city. However, driving in Cancun can be challenging, especially if you're not familiar with the area. It's also important to note that Mexican law requires drivers to have liability insurance, which is often not included in the rental price.

Bicycles: Bicycles are a great way to explore the Hotel Zone and downtown area. There are several bike rental shops in Cancun that offer a variety of bicycles at reasonable prices.

Walking: Finally, walking is a great way to explore Cancun, especially if you're staying in the Hotel Zone or downtown area. Many of the attractions and amenities are within walking distance, and it's a great way to soak up the local atmosphere. However, be aware that the streets in Cancun can be busy and the sidewalks may not always be well-maintained.

Flights to Cancun

Cancun, Mexico has one main international airport, Cancun International Airport (CUN). It is located about 16 kilometers (10 miles) southwest of the city center.

CUN is the second-busiest airport in Mexico, serving as a major gateway to the Caribbean and Latin America. The airport has four terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and a FBO (Fixed Base Operator) terminal for private jets.

The airport offers a wide range of services and facilities, including restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, retail stores, ATMs, currency exchange, and car rental agencies. There are also several lounges available for passengers, including those operated by airlines and independent companies. 

There are several airlines that operate flights from the USA to Cancun. Some of the major airlines that offer flights between the USA and Cancun are: American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways.

The availability and frequency of flights may vary depending on the departure city, time of year, and airline. It is best to check with our travel specialists to find the most up-to-date information on flights from the USA to Cancun.