Sun, sand, and surf - Cancun has it all!
Hugging the shores of Mexico's scenic, Yucatan coast, Cancun is home to one of the world's best beaches and one of North America's hottest party spots. Posh accommodations, dance-until-dawn clubs, and endless watersports have transformed this once sleepy village into Mexico's number one attraction.
However, for many travelers, the onslaught of primed-to-party youths and the clamor of all night revelers are the epitome of a traveler's hell. "Hot, hot, hot" takes on a whole new meaning for those who seek a quite respite or a "natural" adventure.
Yet, in addition to its miles of pristine beaches, Cancun is also home to endless adventures with everything from mysterious Mayan ruins to wildlife-filled nature preserves. So if Cancun's sun and sand leave you hot, hot, hot under the collar, it's time for a refreshing side trip - beyond the beach.
Mayan Ruins
History buffs and adventurers will enjoy a trip to one of southeast Mexico's Mayan ruins. While various sites are scattered throughout the Yucatan, the area's largest and most noted sites are Tulum and Chichen Itza.
Tulum
Just 80 miles south of Cancun is the fortress-like city of Tulum. While Tulum is slightly smaller than Chichen Itza, its cliffside vantagepoint and close proximity to Cancun make it the perfect half-day excursion.
With its ocean-side access and panoramic views of incoming ships, Tulum probably served as a trade center. Dating back to 1100-1600, this three-walled "City of Dawn" offers two awe-inspiring buildings - El Castillo and Templo de los Frescos. The latter offers a fascinating structure as well as once-brilliant frescoes on its interior and exterior walls.
Chichen Itza
Just a few hours drive from Cancun is one of Mexico's largest and most noted ruins - Chichen Itza. Dating back to 600, Chichen Itza boasts yet another El Castillo. This 75-foot, two-pyramid structure most likely played host to ritual and religious sacrifices in the square temple that adorns its top.
Natural Adventures
Surrounded by a myriad of wildlife-filled natural environments, a trip to Cancun isn't complete without a visit to one of the nearby nature reserves offering amazing animals, dense foliage, and endless adventures.
Sian Ka'an
Yet another sand-free option, which is perfect for eco-conscious travelers, is Sian Ka'an, a biosphere just south of Tulum. The wetlands, savannas, rainforests, and marine environments of this 1.3-million-acre reserve protect everything from pumas and howler monkeys to hummingbirds and cranes.
While part of the reserve is off-limits, tours are offered through Friends of Sian Ka'an (98 8 49583). This $50US tour originates in the Hotel Zone via tour van or personal rental car. During the first part of the tour, the caravan meanders through the reserve - periodically pausing to allow the guide to highlight various flora and fauna. Mangrove swamps and nesting birds are seen via open motorboat in the second part of the tour. The tour culminates in a life jacket-assisted float downstream with time for a quick dip at a nearby beach before departure.
