The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Cancun

If there's one destination where the great outdoors is king, it's Cancun. With its white sandy beaches, turquoise sea and year-round warm weather, this city is a paradise for those seeking adventure and relaxation in the sun. From excursions to Mayan ruins to boat trips and marine wildlife encounters, there is something for everyone. If you're planning a trip to Cancun and want to make the most of its natural surroundings, here are some of the best outdoor activities.

The ruins of Tulum are one of the most spectacular visits you can make from Cancun. This ancient Mayan port, perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean, combines history and breathtaking scenery. Walking among its temples and walls will transport you to another era, while you enjoy the sea breeze and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

And after touring the archaeological site, you can go down to the beach just below the ruins and take a swim in a setting that looks like something out of a postcard. An essential experience to connect with history and nature in the same place.

Just a few kilometres from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a paradise where time seems to stand still. Its crystal clear waters, quiet beaches and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the best getaways you can make.

The best way to get there is aboard a catamaran, enjoying the sun and sea on a ride that includes stops to snorkel the coral reefs. Once on the island, you can wander the colourful streets, relax on Playa Norte or enjoy a nice ceviche by the sea.

If you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience, nothing beats the chance to swim with the whale shark. Between the months of June and September, these giants of the sea visit Cancun's waters, offering travellers the chance to swim alongside them in a unique encounter.

Despite its enormous size, the whale shark is completely harmless and feeds only on plankton. Watching it move so gracefully in its natural habitat is a moment that will stay with you forever.

Known as the Lagoon of the Seven Colours, Bacalar is a natural spectacle of waters in different shades of blue that will leave you speechless. This destination, about two hours from Cancun, is perfect for those seeking tranquillity and connection with nature.

You can tour the lagoon by kayak or boat, visit the Cenote Negro and the Canal de los Piratas or simply relax on its floating docks. A magical place that looks like something out of a dream.

If you prefer to see the underwater world without getting wet, a glass-bottom boat trip is the perfect option. From the comfort of the boat, you can admire the marine life of Cancun's reefs and, with a little luck, see turtles, tropical fish and even stingrays gliding through the water.

It is an ideal activity for families or for those who want a relaxed experience without giving up the beauty of the ocean.

If you are fascinated by unique landscapes, Las Coloradas is a destination not to be missed. This pink lagoon, located within the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, owes its colour to the high concentrations of salt and microorganisms in the water. The contrast with the blue sky and the flamingos that inhabit the area creates an impressive visual spectacle.

In addition, in Río Lagartos you can take a boat trip through the mangroves and see crocodiles, exotic birds and other animals in their natural habitat. An excursion that combines nature and landscapes from another planet.

You can't go to Cancun without visiting Chichen Itza, one of the seven wonders of the modern world. This archaeological site is one of the most impressive of the Mayan culture, with the imposing pyramid of Kukulcan as the main protagonist.

After exploring the ruins, there is nothing better than a swim in a cenote, those natural pools of crystal clear water surrounded by rock formations. The combination of history and nature makes this excursion one of the most complete and essential.

If you're looking for pristine beaches and a bohemian atmosphere, Holbox is the place for you. This island, where there are no cars and everything is accessible by bicycle or golf cart, is a haven of tranquillity and natural beauty.

Here you can see the bioluminescence phenomenon, paddle surf at sunset or simply relax in a hammock over the sea. A destination that enchants those looking to disconnect from the world.

Cancun is much more than its beaches and resorts. From exploring ancient Mayan cities to sailing through crystal clear waters, which of these experiences will be at the top of your list?