The Best Tourist Places Near Cancun

Have you chosen to go Cancun for your next vacation? If you have, you will surely know that Cancun has all inclusive luxurious hotels and many great tourist sites. And to pick just some of them to visit is difficult since the area of the Riviera Maya has so many beautiful landscapes that seems to invite people to explore them all.  However, you probably will not have time to see them all. Therefore, I will tell you about the best tourist places near Cancun.

One of the most amazing places to visit is Isla Mujeres (Women Island). Isla Mujeres is a fascinating island that is located 13 km (8.1 miles) northeast of Cancun. The island is about 7 km (4.3 miles) long and 650 meters (2,130 feet) wide. History says that during pre-columbian times the island served as a Mayan sanctuary to the goddess of childbirth and medicine Ixchel. When the Spanish conquerors arrived at the island in the 16th century they named it Isla Mujeres due to the many images of goddesses they saw. Two of the most popular activities in the island are snorkeling and scuba diving. The water is so blue and clear, and the marine life is so rich that exploring the reefs and caves of Isla Mujeres is an unforgettable experience. 

Another impressive place near Cancun that is a must is Puerto Morelos. Puerto Morelos is a town located 37 km (23 miles) south of Cancun. Puerto Morelos is a quiet fishing village which makes a perfect option for those seeking tranquility; but at the same time, it offers abundant tourist amenities. The pier set at the center of the town is the home of snorkel and sport fishing boats that take tourists to the second largest coral reef system in the world located 500 meters (5.00 inches) off the beach in Puerto Morelos. Furthermore, near Puerto Morelos there is a zone in which you will find many cenotes (sinkholes) and underground rivers. In that area, tourists can engage into various activities such as snorkeling, zip lines and scuba diving. 

A further great place close to Cancun is Bacalar. Bacalar is a town located 341 km (211 miles) south of Cancun that owns breathtaking views of the Caribbean landscapes and rich history and culture. For that reason, Bacalar has been designated as a Pueblo Magico (Magic Town) by the Mexican Secretary of Tourism. Bacalar is the only Pueblo Magico in the area of the Mexican Caribbean. The town of Bacalar offers many tourist highlights. The most important one is its seven-colored lagoon calles the Lake of Seven Colors. Moreover, you can also visit the Cenote Azul (Blue Sinkhole) set right at the entrance of Bacalar. This sinkhole is perfect for divers who want to explore the great depth and special features. Another beautiful place in Bacalar is the Chacchoben archeological site.

As you see, not only Cancun but also other places around the Riviera Maya are always ready to be explored in order to discover a different and gorgeous side of Mexico. The majority of tourists do not know about these sites and many others that might be as beautiful or even more beautiful than the usual vacation destinations.

Romina Nieto

Image: Flickr (julia-b)