2 Week Mexico Itinerary: Backpacking the Yucatán Peninsula

North AmericaMexicoCozumelTulumBacalarValladolidMeridaCancunTravel GuideYucatan Peninsula
Written By Gina Cincotta
a photo of chichen itza

Welcome to your epic Yucatan Peninsula 2 week backpacking itinerary!

The Yucatan Peninsula is a must for any backpacker, packed with adventures for every kind of traveler. With so many incredible places to explore, planning a 2-week backpacking itinerary might feel a bit overwhelming. To help you out, this 2-week Yucatan backpacking guide covers all the essentials for a stress-free trip. From buses and colectivos to travel safety tips and budget-friendly suggestions, this guide is your go-to resource for making the most of your two weeks exploring Mexico.

Oh & as always, practice sustainable tourism while traveling, please :)

backpacking the Yucatan Peninsula

A pinterest pin of Mexico

THE ITINERARY

Day 1: Fly into Cozumel

Day 2: Cozumel

Day 3: Tulum

Day 4: Tulum

Day 5: Bacalar

Day 6: Bacalar

Day 7: Valladolid

Day 8: Chichen Itza

Day 9: Merida

Day 10: Uxmal & Kabah

Day 11: Isla Mujeres

Day 12: Isla Mujeres

Day 13: Cancun

Day 14: Fly out from Cancun

(Can be reversed)

Getting to Mexico

Option 1: Flying:

  • Cozumel (CZM) has an international airport on the island, located only 3-4 km from downtown San Miguel. I flew from Boston to Cozumel for around 150 USD.

Option 2 Ferry:

Where to stay

COZUMEL:

Days 1-2 will spent on the island paradise of Cozumel. I recommend staying in Centro/San Miguel to be within walking distance of nearly everything you need, especially since you will be here for one night.

TULUM:

Days 2-5 will be spent in Tulum. There are four main areas to stay in Tulum, but with only being here for 2 nights I recommend either staying in Tulum Centro or the Tulum Hotel Zone. Tulum Centro will offer a more authentic Tulum vibe, whereas the Hotel Zone will offer a more luxurious vacation feel and you will be right on the water.

Find more in-depth information on where to stay here!

BACALAR:

Days 5-7 will be spent in the magical Bacalar! Bacalar is small and walkable. I recommend staying in the central area to have easy access to most activities, restaurants, and other amenities within walking distance, or right on the lagoon for the best water views.

VALLADOLID:

Days 7-9 will be spent in the charming city of Valladolid. The best area to stay in Valladolid is anywhere that is within walking distance of the main square. I have listed some of the best options below!

MERIDA:

Days 9-10 will be spent in the Yucatan capital, Merida. The best area to stay in Merida is either near the Plaza Grande area or along the Paseo de Montejo road. Plaza Grande will offer a more city and bustling atmosphere, whereas Paseo de Montejo will offer a more ‘financial district’ or high-end feel with old colonial mansions lining the streets. I have listed some of the best options below!

ISLA MUJERES:

Days 10-12 will be spent on the island paradise of Isla Mujeres. The best area to stay to be central to many of the attractions on the island is Playa Norte.

CANCUN:

Days 12-14 will be spent in Cancun, where you will eventually fly out of Cancun International Airport (CUN). If your flight is early on Day 14, I recommend staying near the airport. Otherwise, the best place to stay is on the Hotel Strip or for cheaper options, in the city/downtown area, El Centro, if you are okay with not being right on the water.

Day 1: Cozumel

a secret beach in Cozumel

The first day of your 10-day itinerary will depend on when you land in Cozumel.

For those who land in the morning or early afternoon:

What better way to start your trip than by riding freely, with the sun warming your skin, wind running through your hair, and Cozumel’s tropical waters and lush palm tree jungles passing you by?

Ride along the coast of Cozumel via motorbike (or jeep / ATV tour if you prefer) and make as many stops as you wish to capture the beauty of the island. There are many beach clubs, bars, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and activities to choose from along the way. Spend a few hours paddle boarding at a beach club, jump into the water at one of the beaches, or spend some time with wildlife at Punta Sur Ecological Park!

During your ride, visit the El Mirador Lookout and the Natural Blow Hole. You may even spot a Cozumel Coati running by if you are lucky. (I saw a few!) These adorable raccoon-like mammals are only found on the island but are not as common as they were once before.

Motorbike rentals are around 350 pesos (17.63 USD) per 24 hours.

A sunset in Cozumel

In the evening and for those who land later in the day:

Venture into the heart of San Miguel for a stroll around the streets. You will find some incredible street art along the way. Explore the local flea markets selling all your favorite trinkets, clothing items, and local treats. Wander the streets near Benito Juarez Park to discover incredible street art, including the sunken boat art nearby. Finish the night with a tasty Mexican dinner and watch the sunset! For my vegan friends, you can head here for all the best options in Cozumel.

Day 2: Explore Cozumel

Start your second day on the island in one of two ways, depending on your preference for exploration or relaxation. If you are looking for some R&R time, consider heading to the beach to soak up the sun on the sandy shores. If adventure and adrenaline are more your vibe, consider diving into the depths of the underwater world.

Option 1: Dive Into The Magical Underwater World

me scuba diving in cozumel

Whether you are a certified diver or not, you have plenty of options in Cozumel. For non-certified divers, I recommend trying a discovery dive with a local dive shop or grabbing a snorkel, mask, and fins to enjoy some excellent snorkeling.

For new divers, there are many local dive shops and tours to choose from. You can try diving with a discovery dive, which includes a short introduction in a pool or shallow section of the shore to learn some of the basics of scuba diving, followed by one shallow dive at a dive site with an instructor by your side (only if you feel comfortable, of course, but I suggest pushing yourself a little—I promise the underwater world is worth it).

For certified scuba or free divers, you can join a boat trip with a local dive shop or visit one of three shore dive spots offering $6 - $14 tank dives.

Prefer snorkeling? The entire coastline has reefs for you to explore! You can rent gear in downtown San Miguel or bring your own gear with you. Looking for some recommendations on where to go? Head here for some of the best free beaches and snorkeling spots. Head here if you are looking for more of a high-end private charter experience!

Option 2: Explore Free Beaches & Beach Clubs

a beach club in cozumel
another beach club in cozumel

If diving is not your thing, that’s okay! Opt for one of the many beach clubs, free beaches, or secret beaches to soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in Cozumel’s turquoise waters. 

Many beach clubs offer an array of amenities, including food, drinks, sun loungers, umbrellas, and various water sports like water skiing and parasailing. Some clubs have entry fees, but if you want a free option, head over to Money Bar Beach Club, where you only need to purchase a food or beverage item. For some of the best beach club options, check out this list!

Throughout the coast of Cozumel, hides many small entrances to free beaches and secluded coves, perfect for a sun-filled day of relaxation. To help decide which ones are best to explore, head here.

EVENING OF DAY 2: TRAVEL Cozumel —> Tulum

Step 1: Ferry Cozumel to Playa Del Carmen

  • This 45-minute passenger ferry operates hourly and is facilitated by three companies: Winjet (orange), Xcaret (blue), and Ultramar (yellow). The ferry services are subject to weather conditions. The ferry fee varies depending on season, but I paid 260 pesos (15 USD) previously.

  • The ferry port location in Cozumel is across the street from Benito Juarez Park. The exact location is here.

  • The ferry port in Playa del Carmen (PDC) is here.

Step 2: Playa Del Carmen to Tulum

The total travel time from Playa del Carmen to Tulum is 1 to 1.5 hours. You can take a private taxi, a shared van / colectivo, or the ADO bus to get in between the two.

  • For a private taxi, you can expect to pay between 1200 - 2000 pesos (70-120 USD).

  • The Colectivo (shared van) from Playa del Carmen to Tulum can be found under Highway 307, (below Juarez Avenue) near Chedraui. Find the Google Maps location here.

  • The best option and my preferred form of transport is with ADO, the largest bus company in the Yucatan Peninsula. It is one of the cheapest and easiest options. Prices vary depending on the day and time. I suggest booking ahead to secure your ticket for the desired day and time. ADO frequently offers discounts on random days and times, so if you are looking for a deal and do not mind when you travel, be sure to list the buses from cheapest to most expensive. My bus ticket was 120 Pesos (around 7 USD).

Step 3: Taxi to accommodation

Once you arrive in Tulum, you are dropped off at the Tulum ADO Bus Station. It is known that taxis are quite expensive in Tulum. If your accommodation does not offer free transportation and you are not within walking distance, head outside the bus terminal to find plenty of taxis waiting for passengers. The most important key here is knowing where you are going and how far it is so you can estimate how much it should cost. Make sure to agree to a price before getting into the taxi.

You can find a more detailed version of how to travel from Cozumel to Tulum, here!

Day 3: Explore Tulum

Welcome to Tulum! A jungle town renowned for its ancient Mayan ruins perched on a seaside cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This popular tourist destination is the most visited archaeological site on the Yucatán Peninsula, making it a must-visit during your time here. Depending on how quickly and thoroughly you want to explore, you can see the ruins in 1-2 hours.

ruins in tulum

These ancient ruins are part of a Mayan city dating back to the 13th-15th centuries, which focused on maritime trade with other tribes throughout Mexico and Central America. This trade mainly consisted of obsidian alongside other important natural elements, facilitated by Tulum's coastal location. The ruins also played a significant role in spirituality and religion for the Mayans, providing a space to worship the sun, moon, and other gods, symbolizing essential natural elements.

The collapse of these Mayan ruins occurred over time for unknown reasons, but historians suggest it was due to a combination of factors, including disease, warfare, and poverty. To learn more about the potential reasons for the collapse, head here.

TULUM RUINS FEES:

  • The entrance fee into the ruins is 155 pesos (7.80 USD), 95 pesos for the INAH fee, and 60 pesos (for the CONAP fee—protected area entrance fee.

    • The INAH fee must be paid in cash.

    • The bracelet you receive allows access to the ruins and the Tulum National Park area, including its nearby beaches.

  • The parking fee is an additional 100 pesos (5 USD). Be sure to drive down the ruins road as far as officials let you, where you will find the official Tulum Ruins parking on your right. This must be paid in cash.

PRO TIPS:

  • Go early! The ruins get crowded as the day progresses, with tours arriving around 9:30 AM. I suggest going right when they open at 7:00 AM. Try to skip Sundays if you want to avoid an even bigger crowd. On Sundays throughout Mexico, Mexican residents receive free entry to the majority of historical sites around Mexico. 

  • Wear loose and comfortable attire. The ruins are spread out and mostly unshaded. This is another reason to go early: to avoid the heat.

  • Buy tickets only from the booths at the ruins. Do not purchase them from anywhere else.

  • Bring your reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Plastic bottles are not allowed and will be confiscated.

  • Facilities: There are toilets in the ruins area.

  • Tour Guide: You do not necessarily need a tour guide to visit the ruins. There is plenty of signage around for you to read up on the history of the buildings and surrounding area. I did not hire a guide. 

  • Beaches: The CONAP fee you paid for your bracelet grants you access for the day to the following beaches: Playa Santa Fe, Playa Pescadores, Playa Paraiso, and Playa Las Palmas. Be sure to take advantage of this and walk to the beaches from the ruins to avoid paying additional entrance and parking fees.

  • Cameras: If you choose to bring a camera (aside from your phone), you have to pay an additional fee. I believe it is around 30 pesos.

the lagoon in Tulum.

Laguna de Ka’an Luum

Once finished exploring Tulum Ruins and the nearby beaches I recommend visiting one of my favorite places in Tulum, Laguna de Ka’an Luum.

  • Laguna de Ka’an Luum is a massive, crystal-clear lagoon with a cenote in the middle. It has swings, hammocks, photo spots, paddleboards, a viewing tower for lagoon vistas, and more activities. Entry is 300 pesos (15 USD) and requires a shower before entering. Food and drinks are available for purchase, and restroom facilities are also available.

If you want to fill your days in Tulum with even more epic itinerary items, head here for the best things to do in Tulum!

Day 4: Tulum Cenotes

scuba diving a cenote in Tulum

Exploring a cenote in Tulum is the perfect way to relax and cool off after a morning of exploring Tulum Ruins. With over 100 cenotes to choose from, you will have plenty of options to enjoy a refreshing dip.

If you are looking to simply swim and snorkel in a cenote and enjoy your day, there are plenty of options available. You can either venture to one on your own via motorbike or join a group tour!

  • A Few Options For Swimming:

  • For those travelers seeking a more relaxed cenote experience, consider checking out Vesica Tulum, a restaurant located on a cenote.

  • Looking for some party vibes? You can make a reservation at Neek Tulum by sending them a message on Instagram. Neek Tulum is another hip restaurant located on a lagoon (not exactly a cenote, but worth mentioning) that features cocktails, live music, and exquisite gastronomy. They often host events and even allow pets! Check out their Instagram to get a better sense of their vibe!

  • For adventurous souls like myself, you can opt to explore some cenotes through scuba diving like I did! I dove at Dos Ojos and El Pit! Check out this article for more information!

Day 5: Tulum To Bacalar

The total travel time from Tulum to Bacalar is around 2.5-3 hours. To get in between the two, you can either hire a private taxi, take a shared van / colectivo, or utilize the largest Mexican bus company: ADO. You can also rent a car, but I do not think it’s worth the hassle on such a short trip.

  • Private Taxi: This is the most expensive option and costs upwards of 200 USD.

  • Colectivo: A Colectivo is a shared van with other people heading to the same destination you are. They are the best form of transportation for backpackers and travelers with less luggage. I did not successfully locate any Colectivos for venturing from Tulum to Bacalar. However, ADO does offer “Conecta” options which are very similar to a Colectivo— they are often less expensive and slightly faster than the regular ADO bus.

  • ADO Bus: I recommend taking the ADO bus again. The bus is under 3 hours, leaves from the Tulum ADO Station, and arrives at the Bacalar ADO Station. Taxis are awaiting your arrival to take you to your accommodation. Be sure to agree to a price BEFORE getting into the taxi. I paid 50 pesos to get to my accommodation 2.5 km away.

You can find a detailed guide on travel from Tulum to Bacalar, here!

the fortress in Bacalar
Danza traditional performance
Bacalar

Once arrived and settled in Bacalar, you can take some time to decompress and relax. Head to Mango y Chile for the most delicious vegan vanilla milkshake I have ever had….and it comes with a beautiful view high up on a hill in town, overlooking the lagoon. If you do not believe me, you will just have to try it for yourself. Out of the 5 full days I was here, I had 4 of them… oops :) 

Following, you can explore the San Felipe Fortress and catch the Danza de los Voladores behind the fortress. This is an ancient ritual where five people climb a 30-meter pole (98 ft). The four "flyers" tie themselves to ropes and jump from the top of the pole, slowly descending to the ground as they unwind the ropes. The fifth individual plays the flute and drum atop the pole while the others are unwinding around the pole. 

Finally, head to Balneario Municipal El Aserradero, for the sunset! a picturesque boardwalk opening out into the lagoon with no entrance fee. This is also the perfect spot for an evening swim in the Laguna De Los 7 Colores.

Day 6: Explore Bacalar

Lagoon in Bacalar

Welcome to your first full day in magical Bacalar, the Maldives of Mexico! Your first stop here is to see the ancient stromatolites at Los Rapidos. A stromatolite is a layered rock that has formed over billions of years and is the oldest fossil known to mankind. If you want to get more scientific, these rock-like structures were created by colonies of microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). 

The best way to see the stromatolites is to head to Laguna Bonanza, pay 80 pesos for entry, 250 pesos for a double kayak, and paddle the 15 minutes over to the rapids and stomatolites lining Los Rapidos. Laguna Bonazna is more peaceful and much less expensive than Los Rapidos. If you are still trying to decide between the two locations, you can use this travel guide to help you decide!

Pro Tip: Do not touch, hit, or get too close to the stromatolites to help preserve them.

Next…

Jump on a boat and ride through the Laguna De Los 7 Colores! This is the top thing to do in Bacalar, Mexico, especially for those with limited time. My boat ride through the lagoon was the best thing I did while here — I recommend it to everyone. Envision a day exploring the Laguna De Los 7 Colores to its fullest, featuring a cold pineapple juice or cerveza in your hand, the sun shining down, and the breeze keeping you cool. The ride will take you to all of the highlights of Bacalar in just 3 hours, making it the perfect mid-day activity for those heading here with less time. You can find the boat trip I joined and recommend here!

Pro Tip: For more information on visiting the Laguna De Los 7 Colores, head here.

Day 7: Bacalar TO Valladolid

Bacalar is 264 KM (164 miles) from Valladolid. The average travel time is anywhere from 3.45 to 5 hours. 

Per my usual recommendation, the best option to travel from Bacalar to Valladolid is by ADO. However, you can opt to rent a car or take a private taxi as well. A private taxi could cost hundreds of dollars because of the distance.

There is one route per day from Bacalar to Valladolid, leaving at 7:50 AM and arriving around 11:35 AM, making only one stop in Tulum. Prices vary depending on the time of day and when you purchase the ticket, but they can fall anywhere from 300-550 pesos.

If 7:50 in the morning is too early for you, or you prefer to break apart your trip to have one stop in the middle, you can take one bus from Bacalar to Tulum, followed by a second one from Tulum to Valladolid. This will give you many more options for what time of day you depart from Bacalar and arrive in Valladolid. 

  • The Bacalar ADO bus station can be found here.

    • You can book a ride to the station from your accommodation with Taxi Seguro Bacalar: at +52-983-833-7421.

  • The Valladolid bus station can be found here.

Taxis are awaiting your arrival in Valladolid in front of the bus station to take you to your accommodation. Be sure to agree to a price BEFORE getting into the taxi. I paid 40 pesos to get to my accommodation 1 km away. 

For a more detailed guide on traveling from Bacalar to Valladolid, click here!

the colorful buildings in Valladolid
a marquesita in front of of San Servacio

Once arrive and settle in Valladolid, if you are ready to head out and explore, I recommend…

  • Visiting the San Bernardino Convent — a beautifully crafted, fortress-like building from the mid-1500s, used as a key Franciscan missionary center. You can enter the convent from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM for 20 pesos and explore its interior and exterior grounds. 

    • The famous Valladolid letters stand in front of the convent as well! 

  • Wander the colorful streets—the streets throughout central Valladolid are extremely colorful and picturesque making them one of the best things to explore in the city. They are the perfect opportunity to take some fun photos! Here is a list of my favorite spots!

    • Walk Calzada de Los Frailes - a colorfully painted street, perhaps the most colorful in Valladolid! You can find some restaurants and shops to stop in as well.

    • Find the pretty pink church, Iglesia De La Candelaria! The road leading up to the church is also very colorful.

    • Find the bright yellow church, Iglesia Santa Ana! Google Maps claims this one is closed, but you can still wander around and take in its bright hue!

  • Finally, end your day after dinner exploring the main square in Valladolid—the main square of Valladolid surrounds Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado, with shops, restaurants, and the architecturally beautiful Templo de San Servacio lining the square. I recommend taking time to walk around this small, picturesque area and visiting the main park in the center.

    • Depending on the day of the week, there are often either traditional Mayan performers or Jarana performers. It is an excellent opportunity to indulge in authentic pieces of Mexican and Mayan culture.

For more fun things to do in Valladolid, you can head here!

For a complete Valladolid itinerary, head here!

Day 8: Chichen Itza, Ek Balam & More

Chichen Itza

For day 8 of your itinerary, you have a few options…

I recommend visiting one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza, to begin.

  • For foreigners, the entrance fee is 548 pesos plus an additional 95 pesos for the INAH fee.

  • All fees can be paid with a credit card.

  • Chichen Itza is open Monday - Sunday from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

You can find the complete Chichen Itza guide here!

After Chichen Itza, you can either…

  • Visit Ek Balam — “Black Jaguar” in the common Mayan tongue, this is another ancient Mayan city/ruins. It is well known for its Acropolis, which holds an incredible monster-like mouth with teeth lining the bottom.

  • Explore Izamal - a beautiful little yellow city located 1.5-2 hours west of Valladolid.

  • Swim in another cenote

Day 9: Travel To Merida & Explore The City

Once you are awake and have breakfast, it is time to travel to your second-to-last destination in the Yucatan Peninsula, Merida! The total travel time from Valladolid to Merida is around 2 hours and 25 minutes (160 KM). You can take a private taxi or the ADO bus to get between the two.

  • Private Taxi: With Valladolid and Merida being so close, a taxi may be tempting. However, the ADO bus is cheaper and the more budget-friendly option!

  • ADO Bus: Of course, I am recommending the ADO! My ticket from Valladolid to Merida was 170 pesos. If you prefer a slightly faster route, you can choose the “ADO Conecta,” a shared van, best for people with less luggage.

    • The location of the Valladolid ADO station is here.

    • The location of the Merida ADO station is here. Merida has a few other stations, so double-check which location you are coming into when you book your ticket.

For a more in-depth, step-by-step guide on how to travel from Valladolid to Merida, head here!

The sculpture in Merida

Once you arrive in Merida and settle into your accommodation…

  1. Explore Plaza Grande—the main square in Merida and one of the most popular places in the city. It has shops, restaurants, colorful buildings, and a massive park in the center. If you want to learn the history of the plaza you can opt for a FREE walking tour here!

  2. Fill your life with color—Merida is full of bright, colorful buildings lining every street, showcasing a variety of hues and architectural styles. The city is best explored by foot, in my opinion, from Plaza Grande up to Monumento a la Patricia. By walking, you can take in all the colors of this rainbow city and find hidden gems you may not otherwise see in a car.

  3. Stroll down Paseo De Montejo—a famous street in Merida and a breath of fresh air, offering an open green road filled with colonial mansions and museums. Some highlights include Casas Gemelas/Cámara, Museo Regional de Antropología, and Quinta Montes Molina.

  4. Check out Monumento a la Patricia—an iconic sculpture on a roundabout at the end of Paseo de Montejo. The impressive stone-carved sculpture has Mexican history from the Declaration of Independence and wars or revolutions to Mayan symbolism and famous Mexican artists covering it.

  5. Relax in a park—the city has many smaller parks sprinkled throughout the city that are great spots to take a break from exploring to rest your feet or enjoy an afternoon coffee. Some of my favorite parks include:

Find a complete list of the best things to do in Merida, here!

Day 10: Uxmal & Kabah

a photo of Uxmal

For your final day in Merida, I suggest exploring my favorite Mayan ruins Uxmal and Kabah located along the Ruta Puuc. The Ruta Puuc refers to the entire 60-kilometer-long collection of ancient Mayan ruins sites, including Uxmal. This UNESCO World Heritage site begins at Uxmal, making it one of the more accessible sites to visit along the route. The sites differ from its neighbors like Chichen Itza, because of their intricate and diverse carvings that are unlike the others–now referred to as Puuc style.

To explore Uxmal and Kabah, you only need around 1.5 to 2 hours per site. Uxmal, the closest to Merida, is about a 1-hour drive. I suggest joining a guided tour for peace of mind and cost-efficiency. The tour includes entrance tickets to both sites, transportation fees, and a guided tour. The guided tour is a necessity for these sites, in my opinion. For me, I am not enough of a history buff to fully comprehend what I am looking at, and the tour guides often can point out small details and facts that you would not have known otherwise.

The fee to enter Uxmal was 461 pesos plus an additional 95 pesos for the INAH fee (556 total). I believe Kabah was around 110 pesos, but I am not positive since I went on the tour I mentioned above.

For a detailed travel guide on everything you need to know before visiting Ruta Puuc and Uxmal, head here!

Day 10 Evening: Merida to Cancun & Isla Mujeres

The first step to travel from Merida to Isla Mujeres is to travel to Cancun, where you can catch the ferry to the island.

Step 1: Merida to Cancun

  • Cancun is 300 KM (186.4 miles) from Merida. The average travel time is between 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the mode of transport and destination within Cancun. As always, a taxi is an option but can be pricey, especially for longer distances like the trip from Merida to Cancun or vice versa. I have not traveled by private taxi on this route. If this is the option you want to take, I suggest scheduling one and agreeing on a price beforehand!

  • Instead, the ADO bus is again, my preferred and suggested form of transport for traveling to Cancun. There are many direct routes from Merida to Cancun each day. Buses start departing at 1:00 in the morning, with the last one departing at 11:57 at night. Prices vary depending on the day of the week, the time of day, and when you choose to purchase the ticket, but they can fall anywhere from 300-800 pesos.

    • The location of the Merida ADO station is here.

    • The location of the Cancun ADO station is here.

  • For a more detailed guide on traveling between Meridad and Cancun, head here!

Step 2: Cancun to Isla Mujeres Ferry Port

  • Once you arrive at the Cancun ADO station, you will need to head to the Puerto Juarez ferry port. This ferry port runs ferries until 11:00 P.M. If you do not feel comfortable taking a ferry over to Isla Mujeres after dark, you can always stay in an accommodation nearby the port and take the ferry in the morning!

  • From the ADO station, you can take a taxi to the ferry port (or if you choose to spend the night, to your accommodation). For those traveling on a budget and want a cheaper option, you can use the public bus R6. You can download the MOOVIT App onto your phone to locate the bus stop closest to you. The price should only be a few pesos—be sure to have some spare change to pay.

Step 3: Ferry to Isla Mujeres

Day 11: Isla Mujeres

a beach

Welcome to Isla Mujeres — another beach paradise with the ocean calling your name! After an adventurous 10 days backpacking the Yucatan Peninsula, it is time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the island vibes. Isla offers a perfect combo of relaxation and adventure. For your first day, I recommend taking advantage of the underwater world!

  • Scuba diving in Isla Mujeres is absolutely breathtaking with its crystal clear waters and marine life. You can see reef sharks, rays, and whale sharks, given it’s the right season (June-September). There are a number of dive shops on the island for you to choose from. I recommend Pocna Dive Center since they are a PADI 5-star shop!

  • Snorkel at the MUSA museum! MUSA is an underwater sculpture museum dedicated to marine conservation. There are over 500 life-size sculptures used to enhance and restore coral life.

  • Swim with whale sharks! I have done extensive research on this topic to assess how truly ethical it is. Previously, Isla was a hotspot for the killing and selling of whale sharks (horrible). This newer industry of swimming with whale sharks has prevented this atrocity and created a new form of income for the locals. Scuba diving, feeding, and free diving with them (on purpose) are not allowed and the swimming is quite strict.

    • So should you do it? I think it depends really on what you hope to get out of it. I chose not to join the tour because I do scuba dive, and I believe it would be more rewarding for me to see a wild whale shark without expecting one. So, I decided to save my experience for a different occasion.

    • However, if you do not scuba dive or are done waiting for one to swim by one dive, I think this is an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with them! (or have the chance to be). Unlike Oslob in the Philippines (not ethical), this trip seems to be one of the most ethical options. But be sure to be ready for a day of sitting in boat lines and waiting one by one to have a chance with the sharks.

    • You can find a tour option here.

  • If snorkeling and scuba diving are not for you, you can head to a beach club like Guru! Lay by the pool, enjoy a delicious meal (vegan options here!), and one of Forbes’ top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world!

    • Another great alternative is Kin ha!

Day 12: Isla Mujeres

On your final day in Isla Mujeres, I recommend enjoying a beach day or boat day!

One of the best things to do in Isla is to spend a day on the turquoise blue waters, visiting the smaller islands sprinkled about the water, like Isla Contoy!

If you are looking for a beach instead, and one within walking distance, head to Playa Norte. This popular but crowded beach is the perfect place to lay out for the day, with plenty of restaurants, live music, activities, and more for everyone. You can also rent a golf cart from the beach and explore the island! One popular stop-off point not to miss along your ride is Punta Sur, where you can see beautiful views of the ocean and the Mayan temple of Ixchel (30 pesos to enter).

Both Playa Norte and Punta Sur are great spots to catch one of your final Caribbean sunsets as well!

Looking for some shopping time? Head to Avenida Miguel Hidalgo for lots of shops, restaurants, street art, and more!

In the evening, hop on the Ultramar ferry back to the mainland (Cancun). The Ultramar ferry port in Puerto Juarez runs until 11:00 PM. Ferries leave every hour starting from 6:00 PM onward. The one-way ticket costs 270 pesos (14 USD).

From the ferry port, you can take a taxi to your accommodation. For those traveling on a budget and wanting a cheaper option, you can use the public bus to reach your accommodation. You can download the MOOVIT App onto your phone to locate the bus stop closest to you. The price should only be a few pesos—be sure to have some spare change to pay.

Day 13: Cancun

a photo of cancun beach

Welcome to Cancun, one of the top tourist destinations in Mexico, famous for its powdery white sand beaches, lively nightlife, and proximity to major tourist attractions. This area was actually built specifically for tourism by the Mexican government in the early 1970s. For that reason, this area can be a bit on the touristy side, but it still is a great spot to either decompress before heading home or to get in one last adventure!

  • Have a beach day! Head to beautiful beaches like Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas, or my favorite Playa Chac Mool! There are plenty of water sports to enjoy including jet skiing, parasailing, and boating.

  • Venture to Xcaret Park, an eco-park offering everything from wildlife to cultural performances and underground rivers for floating along. The park has over 50 attractions to explore! The park is open from 8:30 AM until 10:30 PM and prices vary depending on whether you choose a ticket with or without the buffet.

  • Enjoy a performance at the famous Coco Bongo—a disco paradise with an incredible acrobatic show! There is a location in Cancun and in Playa Del Carmen.

  • Take a day trip to Playa del Carmen! Playa Del Carmen is an expat-friendly oceanside spot with more beautiful beaches, nightlife, and many shops and restaurants to explore. You can take an organized day tour here or hop on an hour-long bus/shared taxi to PDC. You can find some options on the ADO website, find the Colectivo spot in Cancun, or see more options here.

  • Explore Rio Secreto, an ecological park with a cave system and an underground river. You can swim in the caves and take in the magical world of stalactites and stalagmites.

  • Missed the MUSA museum in Isla? You can also opt for a tour to explore the underwater sculptures from Cancun!

  • Take a guided jungle tour!

  • Missed out on Ek Balam? Cancun offers SO many tours of the ruins! You can venture here on your own as well. You can find some more information on Ek Balam, here.

  • Go scuba diving or snorkeling!

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Day 14: Fly Home

Welcome to your final day in the Yucatan Peninsula! It has been an insanely busy, but incredible 2 weeks. I recommend taking some time to yourself to lay out on one of the beaches in the hotel zone—they are beautiful and the perfect place to take in the last few moments of the Caribbean breeze. If you are not staying in the hotel zone, you can ride the public bus R1 for only 12 pesos to the beach. You can download the MOOVIT App onto your phone to locate the bus stop closest to you.

For navigating your way to the airport you can either opt for a taxi or book an ADO bus to your specific terminal. The bus runs almost every 5 to 10 minutes from 1:00 AM until 11:45 PM and is between 20 pesos and 120 pesos — much cheaper than a taxi would be.


Hasta Luego, I hope you have a wonderful adventure in the Yucatan Peninsula! :)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mexico Safe?

This is a huge debate with Mexico in general, and it all depends on what you will be doing and where you will be going. I was never out after dark nor do I drink or head out to bars. I felt pretty safe throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. I did see some bizarre and questionable things during my time, but never experienced anything that put me in harm’s way. Just be wary of where you are wandering. 

  • This is all opinionated and based upon my experiences only, but you should always stay up to date with your country’s travel advisories regardless. Follow basic rules of safety while traveling, in addition to the following:

    • Do not walk around dark areas or non-tourist areas alone at night.

    • Keep valuables locked up and hidden in your room when you are not there.

    • Do not leave valuables unattended and do not carry around large sums of money.

    • Do not swing your phone, money, etc., around while walking or biking.

    • Do not argue, disrespect, or aggravate the locals. This is their home, to be fair, and you are a visitor.

    • Never travel without the right insurance in case of any sickness, injuries, or theft. Safety Wing is by far the best travel medical insurance. It has saved me numerous times by covering hospital visits when I was sick during my travels in Asia.

    • Emergency Contact Number: 9-1-1

    • Head here for some more tips and information on this topic.

Other amazing Places to add to your Yucatan itinerary:

In the itinerary above, you can choose to spend only 1 day in Isla Mujeres and 1 day in Cancun, and add one or two of the options below…

  • Playa Del Carmen: A lively coastal city on the Riviera Maya that is well known for its beaches, shopping, and nightlife. There are many expats living in Playa Del Carmen. One to two days here is ideal. PDC would fit into the itinerary between Cozumel and Tulum.

  • Mahahual: A small beach town on the Costa Maya, just south of Tulum, offers the perfect spot to relax by the ocean and enjoy the stunning clear waters. One full day here is all you need. This beach town would fit into the itinerary after Tulum and before Bacalar.

  • Akumal: Think serene, clear blue waters, soft white sand, and the perfect spot to relax and decompress. Akumal is an easy 30-minute drive from Tulum and is home to the famous Aktun Chen, an extensive cave system with beautiful turquoise waters inside and plenty of space for adventure.

  • Campeche: An adorable colonial city on the Gulf Coast of Mexico, renowned for its colorful historic center and well-preserved city walls. This city is located 180 KM southwest of Merida, and would therefore fit in after Valladolid or after Merida.

  • Celestun: Calling all flamingo lovers! This small fishing village, just a 1.5-hour drive from Mérida, is home to the Reserva de la Biosfera Ría Celestún, a wildlife sanctuary known for its beautiful pink flamingo flock. The best time to visit here is from December to April when the flamingos are present and posing for photos. You can plan on spending around half a day here and if you do not have a form of transport, you can find a great guided tour option here that includes round-trip transport.

  • Holbox: This laid-back and car-free island is a great alternative to Isla Mujeres for those who prefer small island living, wildlife (flamingos and sharks), and beautiful beaches. To get here, you would take the ADO bus to Chiquila Village and catch a ferry from there! Adding Holbox into the itinerary is best if you head here after Merida but before Isla Mujeres and Cancun.

    • Pro Tip: I would not visit Holbox during the rainy season— it has been prone to flooding.

Are there vegan or Gluten-free food options?

Yes! Find destination-specific options below!

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