Travelers who are looking for a fantastic all-inclusive resort destination that is priced far below most tropical destinations in and around the Caribbean should look into Mexico’s Riviera Maya. This area has fast become a very popular tropical vacation getaway for travelers from around the world. But is the Rivera Maya worth it?
About the Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya is located on the Caribbean side of Mexico and encompasses a stretch of coastline ranging from about 5 miles to 60 miles south of Cancun.
Don’t be misled into thinking that because you fly into Cancun to get to the Riviera Maya that it is anything like Cancun’s party-like atmosphere. The Riviera Maya has been set aside by the Mexican government as a semi-protected area. As a result, it cannot become the touristy, high-rise resort type of destination you find in the Cancun hotel zone. Resorts can only be built 3-stories or less in height and they have to be constructed to embrace the surrounding vegetation, wildlife, and topography. It is a much more family-friendly and romantic vacation destination.
Resorts in the Riviera Maya are primarily all-inclusive properties. Because of the remote locations of many of the properties, there are very few offsite dining areas. All-inclusive resorts give travelers the benefit of having everything paid for prior to their arrival. All meals, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), non-motorized water sports, and other amenities are included in package prices. The more upscale all-inclusive resorts of 4-star and higher quality typically have many different restaurant options ranging from buffet to world-class a la carte cuisine….all-included! Some of the more popular resort chains in the Riviera Maya include Iberostar Resorts, Palace Resorts, and Secrets Resorts & Spas. Resorts run anywhere from more family-related types of properties or resorts for the budget-minded to very upscale adults-only spa resorts.
Why choose the Riviera Maya for your next vacation?
Tours in the Riviera Maya
The most majestic of the local Mayan ruins are the pyramids of Chichen Itza. These incredibly preserved pyramids date back to 400AD and this awe-inspiring tour will leave with you many wonderful memories. At Cancun Airport Transportation, we offer Mayan ruins tours you can take as well. In addition to ruins, you can also experience many eco-based tours that take you to the game and marine preserves. Once there you will find amazing wildlife and snorkeling that is nothing short of amazing.
Another popular day trip for those staying in the Riviera Maya region is the island of Cozumel. You can reach this quaint island by ferry from the town of Playa del Carmen. Our transportation services to Cozumel can take you to the short 45-minute ferry ride and once there you will find duty-free shopping, great dining, and some of the world’s best SCUBA diving and snorkeling.
If you’re interested in exploring the Riviera Maya, check out our Open Service Tour in the Riviera Maya, for a 6 or 12 hours transportation service.
Facts about the Riviera Maya
Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Cozumel are not part of the Riviera Maya. It is mistakenly believed that these destinations are part of the Riviera Maya. The truth is that the Riviera Maya begins south of 
Puerto Morelos in Punta Brava to Punta Allen, and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
Now that we have cleared that up, a question arises: How to get there? As we learned, the Riviera Maya has many destinations within itself. So once you have located your resort in the Riviera Maya, book your flight to the Cancun International Airport. For an easy and smooth arrival to your hotel, book your transportation beforehand.
Check out our transfer services to any destination in the Riviera Maya.
Another great fact about vacationing in the Riviera Maya is the amazing natural attractions and eco parks! You can learn more about eco parks here. But the number of activities and sites to see in the Riviera Maya or close by is unbelievable.
In the end, there is no such thing as asking ourselves “is the Riviera Maya worth it?, because we know it totally is. If you have taken tropical vacations in the Caribbean or Hawaii and are looking for a new destination to visit, the Riviera Maya is an excellent choice. It will definitely impress and have you ready to come back again and again.