Riviera Maya, Yucatán Peninsula
Mexico Trek has spent 7 days of its itinerary in Riviera Maya across 2 editions (2024 and 2026).
Places in Riviera Maya
Chichén Itzá
Chichén Itzá, located in the Yucatán Peninsula, is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient Maya city showcases impressive architectural and astronomical knowledge, highlighted by the iconic El Castillo pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, and the vast Great Ball Court. Visitors can explore temples, observatories, and intricate carvings that reveal the Maya’s sophisticated understanding of mathematics, astronomy, and ritual life. Chichén Itzá offers a vivid window into the culture, engineering, and spirituality of one of Mesoamerica’s most influential civilizations.
Sacred Cenotes
The sacred cenotes of the Riviera Maya are natural sinkholes formed over thousands of years, revered by the ancient Maya as portals to the underworld and sites for ritual offerings. Crystal-clear waters and dramatic limestone formations create a strikingly beautiful and serene environment, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply reflecting on the region’s spiritual heritage. Visiting these cenotes offers a unique opportunity to connect with both nature and the deep cultural traditions of the Maya civilization.
Mayan Riviera
The Mayan Riviera stretches along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, with stunning turquoise waters, soft white sand beaches, and lush tropical landscapes. Its coastline offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-based adventures, as well as relaxing in beachfront resorts where participants can unwind and recharge. Beyond the shore, the region is rich in natural wonders and Mayan heritage, blending pristine Caribbean beauty with cultural exploration for an unforgettable experience.
Riviera Maya on the itinerary
Mexico Trek 2026
Day 5 · 19 March 2026 · Riviera Maya — Chiché Itzá, cenotes and landscapes
- Chichén Itzá: The following day, we’ll visit the iconic Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We'll explore the majestic El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán), the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Sacred Cenote, learning about the cosmology, architecture, and rituals of the ancient Maya civilization.
- Cenote swimming and diving + lunch: After exploring the site, we'll make a refreshing stop at a nearby cenote, where we’ll take a dip in its crystal-clear waters—a perfect way to relax and connect with the natural beauty and spiritual significance of these sacred spaces in Mayan culture. The site allows for participants to have resting spots and a restaurant where we will provide lunch. After this awe-inspiring visits, we’ll continue our journey to Cancún, where we’ll spend the final leg of the trek unwinding by the Caribbean Sea.
- Transfer to Cancún: After our refreshing swim in the sacred cenotes, we will continue our journey with a scenic drive to Cancún, where the Caribbean coastline and resort atmosphere await.
Day 6 · 20 March 2026 · Riviera Maya — Carribean enjoyment day
- Enjoying and relaxing at Cancún beach: Our first day in Cancún is all about unwinding. With no set agenda, participants are free to enjoy the area at their own pace—whether that means lounging by the beach with a book, swimming in turquoise waters, indulging in a spa treatment, or sipping a cold drink under the palm trees. Cancún's Caribbean atmosphere offers the perfect opportunity to recharge, reflect, and soak in the beauty of the ocean. As the sun sets, we’ll come together for a Friday night beach party to celebrate the unforgettable journey we’ve shared. With music, dancing, and toes in the sand, it’s the perfect send-off for a trek filled with discovery, connection, and lifelong memories.
- Beach party!!: The night unfolds with a lively beach party. We’ve booked a vibrant spot right on the sand, where you can immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. With music, dancing, and a range of delicious food and drinks, the beach party promises an energetic and fun-filled evening.
Day 7 · 21 March 2026 · Riviera Maya — Mayan history and beach
- Mayan culture: For those looking to explore a bit more of Cancún beyond the resort, we’ll offer a short cultural outing in the morning. We’ll start with a visit to the Museo Maya de Cancún, a beautifully designed museum showcasing an impressive collection of Mayan artifacts from across the Yucatán Peninsula. The visit also includes a walk through the adjacent San Miguelito ruins, a quiet archaeological site nestled in a tropical setting. Afterward, we’ll head to Mercado 28, a lively local market in downtown Cancún known for its artisan crafts, souvenirs, and casual eateries—an ideal spot to enjoy authentic snacks and do some last-minute shopping before returning to the resort for a final afternoon of rest and relaxation.
- Farewell dinner and reflections: As the sun sets, we’ll gather for a special farewell dinner by the beach, a perfect setting to celebrate our journey and close the Mexico Trek with great food, good company, unforgettable memories. We will use this space to share final takeaways and reflections from organizers and participants.
Day 8 · 22 March 2026 · Riviera Maya — Saying Goodbye
Mexico Trek 2024
Day 6 · 15 March 2024 · Riviera Maya — Exploring Wonders
- Chichen Itza Tour: We'll embark on a guided tour of the archaeological site of Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Dive deep into the Mayan culture
- Cenotes swim + lunch: We'll visit a stunning cenote where you can swim and enjoy a lunch by its crystal-clear waters.
- Reception cocktail + Dinner: Welcome cocktail featuring traditional drinks. We'll also share key tips on how to make the most of your Xcaret experience.
- Show Mexico Expectacular: We will experience a captivating show filled with music, dance, and performances that bring Mexico's historical epochs to life, offering deeper insights into its culture
Day 7 · 16 March 2024 · Riviera Maya — Enjoying Mexico’s Magical Beaches
- Cenotes Swim (optional)
- Charrería Exhibition (optional): Exhibition of Charros showcasing artistic and synchronized horse riding. Participation is optional, and confirmation will be requested via the WhatsApp group to reserve your spot.
- Farewell Dinner: Farewell dinner where we'll wrap up the Trek, closing with reflections from participants and team-building activities.
- Farewell Party: We will celebrate together our time in Mexico at Xcaret’s Night Club. All drinks are included. For safety reasons, leaving Xcaret for other nightclubs is not allowed, and we will not be responsible for those who disregard this instruction
Day 8 · 17 March 2024 · Riviera Maya — Saying Goodbye