Things To See In Cancun

Even though Cancun was built a mere 30 years ago to draw tourists to the beaches of Quintana Roo, the area is rich in Mexican history and culture. Cancun is divided into two areas, El Centro and the Hotel Zone. El Centro has many restaurants, cultural activities and a craft market. El Centro also provides tourists an opportunity to experience more of the local flavor of Cancun, as that is where most of the city’s year-round residents live. It is also home to the Parque de Palapas, a park frequented by local residents, which is worth exploring.

Cancun is within a day’s drive of some of the most important Mayan ruins and archeological sites in Mexico. Tulum, one of the sites closest to Cancun, sits on the seaside and is reportedly the home of the world’s first lighthouses. Another site, Chichen Itza, is a few hours’ drive outside of Cancun, but is one of the most recognizable Mayan ruins, El Castillo Pyramid. Many other archeological sites dot the Yucatan Peninsula and are easily accessible from Cancun.

For more cultural activities, check out the authentic Mexican dance at the Ballet Folklorico Nacional deMexico-Aztlan at the Continental Villas Plaza. The National Institute for Anthropology and History, in Cancun’s convention center, is a good place to learn Mayan history.

Isla Mujeres, a small island off the coast of Mexico, is only a 20 minute ferry ride from Cancun. There is a picturesque fishing village there, along with great shopping, snorkeling and other outdoor activities. The island is small enough you can walk around or rent a moped or bicycle, although there are car ferries from Cancun to the island. El Garrafon, a park known for its cliffs and reefs is also located on Punta Sur on Isla Mujeres. These cliffs are the highest elevation in the Yucatan and offer breathtaking views.

Cancun also offers a wide array of outdoor activities, such as ecological parks, swimming with dolphins, aquariums, snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, golf and horseback riding. Check with your travel agent or hotel to get the best deals on tours, guided trips and diving.