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Cancun sights

Mexico is a country that attracts tourists from all over the world. There are sunny resorts, monumental historical sites, and specific cuisine. Resort City Cancun offers attractions for every taste: from the clean azure beaches to the remnants of the culture of the ancient Mayan civilization. Let’s take a look at the interesting sites worth visiting for all the tourists who came here.

History of Cancun

The modern resort is full of tourists from all over the world, especially on its streets and beaches, there are many Americans seeking to feel the real freedom, where an admiring look in the direction of a woman will not lead to a lawsuit. Gradually gaining a taste for travel to Mexico and Russian tourists, appreciating the clean clear sea, snow-white beaches, an abundance of entertainment, shopping centers and fairly low prices.

The fame of the resort, in addition to the beautiful natural conditions, brings a rich cultural heritage, concentrated in the ancient Mayan cities and temples, numerous mysteries, which scientists and enthusiasts have been trying to solve for many decades. They are considered the main attractions of Cancun.

History of Cancun

The city is very young, there is a version that the place for the resort was chosen specifically based on research of tourist interests and demand for such services. We tried to take into account all the nuances, including scenic landscapes, developed infrastructure, a variety of entertainment and proximity to ancient cultural and historical monuments. Many of the attractions, such as the Underwater Sculpture Museum, were specially created and styled to attract visitors.

Before the major restructuring of the area was a simple fishing village, which appeared on the maps only in the 18th century, and since the late 70s of the 20th century there has been a rapid transformation that has turned it into one of the best resorts in the world.

The layout divided the city into two parts: tourist and downtown, where the locals live, most of them working at the resort as support staff.

Top 15 attractions in Cancun

On the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico stretches a large resort, attracting a mild climate, beautiful beaches and ancient history. Tourists can choose from a wide range of activities from fishing to jungle walks, excursions to the ruins of Mayan cities or a pleasant evening in a posh restaurant in the company of spicy Mexican food and a shot of tequila.

Most of the attractions relate to the Mayan culture, so many of the tours are field trips. In hotels you can get promotional booklets with descriptions and photos of attractions Cancun with their location on a map of Mexico and immediately order a tour.

Comprehensive tours with visits to several monuments will cost less.

Chichen Itza

This city is best restored and is the center of an ancient civilization where beliefs, worldviews, and knowledge about the world and cosmic phenomena are reflected. The site is listed by UNESCO, and the famous Kukulkan pyramid is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Chichen Itza is not far from Cancun

From the 7th to the 10th century the city belonged to the Maya, later it was taken over by the Toltecs, and after 2 centuries it was completely and suddenly deserted, the reasons are still being sought to this day. It was gradually sinking into the jungle until the early 20th century, and then archaeological excavations began, bringing several major scientific discoveries and awakening considerable interest in the ancient civilization.

Chichen Itza - the landmark of Cancun

Chichen Itza has become a major tourist destination, with hotels, cafes, excursion trails and fascinating itineraries all around. Climbing is allowed only on a few observation decks, but enough of them for impressions and panoramic photos to remember. In the evenings there are colorful costume shows, accompanied by light and sound effects.

Other than that, it’s worth seeing:

  • an exhibit at the local museum;
  • El Castillo, acting as a huge calendar;
  • The illusion of a snake crawling on the outer walls of the temple during the equinoxes;
  • temple of warriors.

Tulum

Tulum - Mexico

The name of the ancient city is translated as “wall”. Indeed, it is clear from the location of the ruins that once it was protected by rocks and powerful fortress walls 8 m thick. The well-preserved fragments of buildings are made of giant slabs, the secret of such construction has long been lost, but even modern machinery would have difficulty coping with such a task.

The archeological complex of Tulum includes:

  • the ruins of residential buildings;
  • fragments of watchtowers;
  • the temple of frescoes;
  • cave systems.

The Ruins of Tulum near Cancun

The ancient cities of El Meco and El Rey complete the picture with new facts and picturesque ruins, among which explorations are still underway, bringing unusual discoveries and artifacts.

Museums and exhibitions

Despite its young age, the city has many interesting sites with archaeological finds that tell about the life and culture of extinct civilizations.

Cancun museums hold many artifacts that are worth seeing and appreciating in terms of craftsmanship. There are traditional exhibitions and original projects.

The underwater museum in Cancun is a world-class attraction

Underwater Museum was created very recently, in 2010, his feature is that to view the exposition will literally dive to the bottom of the sea. Stone sculptures are gradually covered with coral, grow algae, acquiring a mysterious look and causing a lively interest of visitors.

In addition to it, museums are waiting for guests:

  • of Mexican folk art;
  • the history of the Maya civilization;
  • wax figures;
  • Erradura’s tequila sensory museum.

Cantoy Island

Cantoy Island to Cancun

An uninhabited island, which is located near Cancun. There are two ways to get here: as part of a tour group or by renting a boat. However, when planning a visit, keep in mind that there is a daily limit on the number of guests the island can accommodate. Tourists are attracted by the beautiful nature and the local flora and fauna: several dozen species of birds, turtles, unusual plants. If you want a break from civilization, you can safely head to the island of Cantoy.

El Rey Ruins

Cancun sights - El Rey Ruins

These are the remains of ancient Mayan structures. Despite the fact that the park is located within the city, there are not many tourists. There is a fee to enter the territory, but the price is affordable – about $3. There is no time limit, so objects can be explored for hours. The ruins will appeal to lovers of history and archaeology. Here you can get acquainted not only with the history, but also with representatives of the animal world: the park is home to many iguanas.

Tequila Museum

Tequila Museum in Cancun

Dedicated to Mexico’s most famous drink. The locals are very proud of it, so they want to share with visitors the history of tequila and its differences from other alcoholic beverages. You will learn about the agave from which Mexican pride is made. The museum will tell you about the history of tequila, its types and methods of production. Among the exhibits are bottles of various shapes and years of manufacture. Every visitor can taste the drink right in the museum.

Scorpio Temple

Cancun, Mexico - attractions - Temple of the Scorpion

A historical monument from Mayan times. Located on the coast of Cancun. Only a few walls remain of the temple, but they can tell a lot about the degree of development of the ancient civilization. According to one version, the structure got its name from the image of a scorpion, which was on the wall. Unfortunately, the temple is surrounded by hotels, which prevents you from fully experiencing the energy of a centuries-old structure. That said, access to the attraction is free.

Mayan Museum

Mayan Museum in Cancun - points of interest of the resort

The small museum contains various exhibits belonging to the ancient culture. Exhibits include found objects, research data, photographs, and reconstructions. The price of admission is a few dollars and available to every tourist. On the territory of the museum are the ruins of Indian structures. If you’re tired of relaxing on the beach or it’s raining, then don’t waste precious time and join the world’s history.

Dolphinarium Skaret

Cancun: attractions - Schcaret Dolphinarium

Do you want to get bright emotions? Be sure to visit Skaret Park with its dolphinarium. In addition to watching the performance, guests can swim with the dolphins in the pool. This service is quite expensive, but well worth it. The process brings a lot of positive experiences and will be remembered for a lifetime. Dolphins swim nearby, dance and even kiss you on the cheek. The instructors constantly take care of the well-being of their pets and the comfort of the dolphinarium guests.

Ventura Amusement Park

The Ventura Amusement Park in Cancun

Here you can ride the water slides and get a burst of adrenaline thanks to the steep turns. In addition to the water park, it provides other entertainment: go-carts, rides, virtual reality. There are several types of tickets available at the park. The higher the price, the more opportunities you have. If you’re vacationing with kids, Ventura is the perfect place for entertainment. Every member of the family will find interesting things to do here.

Market 28

Cancun - Market 28

A very unusual and colorful market. Colorful stalls and smiling street vendors lift the spirits of tourists. The price of goods is much cheaper than in the hotel area. On sale mostly national souvenirs and all sorts of little things. There are restaurants with delicious and inexpensive food at the market. If you plan to buy souvenirs, the first place to look is here.

Just remember that local sellers are trying to sell goods to foreigners as expensive as possible. So before you buy things, always haggle.

Hard Rock Cafe

Cancun Attractions - Hard Rock Cafe

When listing the attractions of Cancun, it is worth remembering the institution of the world-famous chain. The cafe is located on the main street and attracts attention with its characteristic style. There is a special atmosphere in the hall: heavy music plays, and the walls are decorated with all kinds of musical relics. The menu includes both Mexican and American dishes. The cafe has a small stage where musicians perform in the evenings. If you want to relax to your favorite music while enjoying the coast, this is the place to go.

Underwater Sculpture Museum

Underwater Sculpture Museum in Cancun, Mexico

Tourists especially like to come to the shores of the Caribbean Sea, scuba diving. And it’s really worth it. And you have to start by seeing the many sculptures built on the bottom of the sea by Jason Taylor! And Taylor continues to create, so every year you can see something new here. This is a very beautiful and mesmerizing sight! Coral clinging to the sculptures gives them the appearance of ancient statues.

Isle of Women

Women's Island - Cancun attractions

Despite its small size, the island has a developed infrastructure. There are many restaurants and cafes, and the beaches are fully adapted to the needs of holidaymakers. If you like a combination of good service and outdoor recreation, then this Cancun attraction is for you. The coast is carefully monitored and cleaned regularly. The water depth near the island – to the waist and chest for a few tens of meters. This makes the place attractive to families with children. You can get to Women’s Island by buying a tour or buying tickets yourself.

Natural parks and reserves

In an effort to see picturesque landscapes untouched by civilization, you can learn about the flora and fauna of Mexico in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, considered a highlight of Cancun, like the Xaman Ha Reserve. Rare species of birds live there, there are more than 500 species, including toucans, flamingos, herons, parrots. Walking leisurely along the paths, it is convenient to observe their behavior and admire the beautiful scenery.

Sian Ka'an Reserve near Cancun

Amazing rainforests on the slopes of the mountains is Aktun-Chen National Park, and if you want to refresh yourself and see the sea creatures, you should look into the lagoon Shel Ha.

What else can I see in Cancun?

Among the interesting places to visit are:

  • Sac Aktun underground river;
  • dolphinarium aquarium;
  • Nisuk water amusement park;
  • golf club;
  • diving school;
  • bullfighting arena;
  • theater.

An underground river near Cancun, MexicoVacation in Cancun – the days to the limit, full of impressions and discoveries, visiting the beaches, the ancient Mayan cities, colorful photos and a desire to return here again.

Weather and Climatic Conditions in Cancun

Throughout the year there is great weather, the division into seasons is conditional and is expressed not in the change of temperature, but in the influx of tourists. The bulk of holidaymakers come to the resort from November to May. At this time, housing and food prices rise smoothly. In January, June, and early fall, there are heavy but brief downpours. For adults, they do not interfere, but for recreation with children can be a nuisance. The temperature stays between 28 – 35°C all year round, small seasonal fluctuations are more like the mild vagaries of nature than the transition from winter to summer.

The mild tropical climate attracts fans of beach holidays and fans of water sports all year round.

During the “rainy season” the sea is rough, you should exercise reasonable caution when swimming.

As soon as you arrive, tourists are immersed in an atmosphere of luxury, and the generous sun, azure ocean and beautiful palm trees – the indispensable attribute of tropical resorts. The natural beauty makes you literally forget about civilization, immersed in a riot of colors and fragrances in the reserves and parks.

Video overview of the sights of Cancun

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