Excitement builds as we hit 2023. We’ve been eyeing new years eve and the time has come. This bucket list is going to bring you around some of the most spectacular places in Riviera Maya. With any luck, you’ll be making your own bucket list this year too!
The Mexican Riviera is a Caribbean coast, with white sands and an abundance of activities for people of all ages. It is also home to some amazing ancient Mayan ruins, many natural wonders like cenotes, and plenty of eco-tourism opportunities like diving in the beautiful jungle. This is a full experience bucket list, you’ll visit some of the most popular places in the area. The Riviera Maya is a beautiful destination for people who are looking for an adventure, who want to see the natural beauty of Mexico, or who just want to escape the winter cold for a few days.
The list is based on a trip to Riviera Maya, Mexico. There are a few places you might want on it, such as the famous Mayan ruins, the beach, or the restaurants. But you get the idea.
1. Go zip lining
Selvatica which literally means: “pertaining to the jungle”, has been a fertile campground for explorers and adventurers from many bygone eras. Including zip lines, 4×4 ATV, access to cenotes, and more. Selvatica is a great way to explore and give you mouth-dropping experiences. This activity crosses many things off our bucket list.
3. Visit cenote Ik Kil
Immerse yourself in the sacred world offered by this beautiful Cenote, a window to the past where you will find the perfect balance of harmony and adventure. Ik-Kil, Maya for “The Place of the Winds”, is a park surrounded by exotic plants and large old trees, the ideal habitat for different wild birds such as toh birds, toucans, parrots, mockingbirds, flycatchers, and cardinals among many others. In the center of the park, you can find the Cenote Ik Kil, a reflection of the natural wealth of Yucatan and was an ornament of ancient cultures, in it have been found animals dating back centuries, which proves this cenote is a place of sacrifices and legends.
2. Experience the power of silence in an underwater cave
Rio Secreto could very well be one of the great world wonders. Experience this stunning underground river with thousands of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. It’s like stepping back in time to witness something mysterious and truly spectacular.
3. Rent a golf cart in Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is only 5 miles long and about half a mile wide, so renting a golf cart is actually a good idea. Ride along the island to get to the less crowded and most beautiful spots in Isla Mujeres. From Playa Norte to Playa Sur, this is fun and effective as you can move around at your own pace. You can expect to pay about $30-45 USD for a golf cart rental for the day (gas included), and there is no shortage of shops offering the service.
4. Swim in the Second Biggest Barrier Reef in the World
Puerto Morelos Reef National Park is nestled in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System the second largest barrier reef in the world, here you can practice various water sports, such as diving, windsurfing, and kayaking, with snorkeling being the preferred one for the hundreds of corals and tropical fish that you will see passing by around you, creating a multicolored landscape.
5. Ride a bike in Holbox
If your accommodation does not provide bikes themselves, you can rent one at Holbox Bikes, Sea Bikes, or Ama’s Bikes. Prices for a normal bike start at 35 MXN (about 2 USD) per hour, for a whole day you pay about 200-250 MXN (about 10-12 USD). During your island tour, you should definitely pass by the cemetery and take a quick look inside. It is located a bit outside on the Avenida Damero, the street that passes next to the airport runway. By the way, there is a small market on this street near the airport building where you can buy local tropical fruits, freshly squeezed juices, or local snacks such as tacos or empanadas.
6. Visit Palancar Reef, Columbia Reef and Playa el Cielo in Cozumel
Unsurprisingly, the Cozumel Reefs are on the bucket list of most visitors, and there are three spots you cannot miss: El Cielo, Palancar Reef, and Colombia Reef. The first is one of the top beaches in the Riviera Maya. The other two are some of the most abundant underwater gardens on Earth.
7. Explore the Underwater Museum
Diving in Cancun is probably one of the most popular activities to do when you’re on vacation. This unique excursion offers a view of the ocean like you’ve never seen it before! Artworks and marine life surrounding you, it cannot get any better. This is fun for everyone and a unique experience when visiting the Riviera Maya. Definitely, this should be on your 2023 bucket list.
8. Go on a clear boat tour
Unsurprisingly, the Cozumel Reefs are on the bucket list of most visitors, and there are three spots you cannot miss: El Cielo, Palancar Reef, and Colombia Reef. The first is one of the top beaches in the Riviera Maya. The other two are some of the most abundant underwater gardens on Earth.
9. Have dinner at the Pirate’s Ship
Enjoy a Pirate show, an amazing dinner, and a great ambiance! Experience the Caribbean like a true pirate, sail off to play games, win contests, and have fun with the whole family. Book your Captain Hook tour now!
If after reading this article you’re still looking for more things to do in 2023, check out the following articles: