Cancun is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting Cancun for the first time or returning to explore more of what this amazing city has to offer, this guide will help you make the most of your trip. From travel essentials like what to wear and how to get a local SIM card to recommendations on top attractions, street food, and local etiquette, this guide is packed with practical tips and real experiences to ensure you have a smooth and memorable vacation.
Travel Essentials: What You Need for Your Cancun Trip
Before diving into the fun activities, let’s cover some of the essentials you’ll need for your trip.
1. Travel Gear and What to Wear in Cancun
When packing for Cancun, the key to comfortable and stress-free travel is lightweight and breathable clothing. The city’s tropical climate means warm temperatures throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C). Here’s what I found useful during my trip:
- Light and breathable clothing: Pack plenty of shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and swimsuits. Light cotton or linen fabrics are ideal for the heat and humidity.
- Comfortable shoes: If you plan to explore the city, its attractions, or beaches, comfortable sandals, flip-flops, or sneakers are a must. I wore a pair of breathable sandals when I toured around, and they were perfect for walking on both paved roads and sandy beaches.
- Swimwear: Since Cancun’s beaches are stunning, be sure to pack a couple of swimsuits to enjoy the turquoise waters. I recommend bringing a rash guard for extra sun protection while snorkeling or engaging in water sports.
- Sun protection: Don’t forget to pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Cancun’s sun can be intense, and I made sure to reapply sunscreen throughout the day to avoid sunburn.
- Light jacket: Although Cancun is warm, the evenings can sometimes get cooler, especially in the rainy season. I packed a lightweight jacket just in case, and it came in handy during some breezy nights by the beach.
2. Currency Exchange in Cancun
Mexico’s currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), and while some tourist areas accept US dollars, it’s better to use pesos to avoid unfavorable exchange rates. I exchanged a small amount of US dollars for pesos at the airport when I arrived, just to have some cash on hand for small purchases, tips, or street vendors.
- ATMs: There are plenty of ATMs around Cancun, particularly in the Hotel Zone and downtown, but I recommend using ATMs at well-known banks like Banorte or Santander for the best rates and security. Be mindful of any ATM fees from both the bank and your home bank.
- Currency exchange shops: You can also exchange your currency at local exchange shops or your hotel. However, these might offer less favorable rates, so I preferred to stick with ATMs.
3. How to Get a Local SIM Card
If you plan to stay connected while exploring Cancun, getting a local SIM card is an affordable and practical option. Upon arrival, I visited a Telcel store in the Hotel Zone to purchase a prepaid SIM card. The process was straightforward, and the staff helped me choose a data plan that suited my needs. You’ll need your passport as identification, and the cost for a basic plan with 3GB of data was around 200 MXN (roughly $10 USD), which lasted me throughout my stay. This was much cheaper than roaming charges from my home country.
Local Etiquette: What to Know
One of the best parts of my trip to Cancun was experiencing the local culture, but to truly immerse yourself, it’s important to understand local etiquette. Here are some things I learned during my time in Cancun:
1. Respect for Local Traditions and Customs
Mexicans are known for being incredibly warm and friendly, but they do value respect. I learned early on that greeting people with a polite “Hola” (Hello) or “Buenos días” (Good morning) is a common practice. It’s something that locals appreciate, and it goes a long way in creating positive interactions.
2. Tipping Culture
Tipping is an important part of Mexican culture. I found that most service workers, from restaurant staff to hotel employees, expect a tip for good service. In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is standard, but I always tip a little extra if I felt the service was exceptional. For taxi drivers, I tipped 10-15 MXN for short rides and more for longer trips. I also tipped hotel housekeeping 20-30 MXN per night.
3. Dress Modestly in Religious or Cultural Sites
When visiting local cultural sites like churches or Mayan ruins, it’s important to dress modestly. I wore a cover-up over my swimsuit when visiting places like the Chichen Itza ruins and made sure to avoid wearing overly revealing clothing in sacred spaces.
I remember when I visited a small local market downtown, I noticed some vendors would greet me warmly, but I made sure to speak politely and not haggle too aggressively—something I’ve learned is a bit disrespectful in Mexican culture.
Must-Visit Attractions in Cancun
Now, let’s dive into the heart of Cancun’s allure—its attractions. Cancun is known for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and thrilling water sports. Here are my top four recommendations:
1. Chichen Itza: Exploring the Ancient Mayan Ruins
One of my most memorable experiences was visiting Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It’s located about 2 hours from Cancun by bus or car, and I booked my trip through TourRadar.com, a platform I used to find guided tours that fit my schedule and budget. The tour included an expert guide who walked us through the history and significance of the ancient Mayan city.
Things to do:
- Explore the iconic El Castillo pyramid, a symbol of the Mayan civilization.
- Visit the Cenote Sagrado (Sacred Cenote), a water-filled sinkhole that was once used for sacrificial ceremonies.
- Discover the Great Ball Court and its mysterious acoustics.
How to get there: The easiest way is to book a guided tour, which usually includes transportation, lunch, and a guide. You can also drive there directly, but it’s a long trip, so tours are recommended.
2. Xcaret Park: A Day of Nature and Culture
Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park that offers an exciting mix of cultural performances, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities. I spent an entire day here and loved every moment.
Things to do:
- Swim in the underground rivers.
- Watch the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular show, a vibrant performance celebrating Mexico’s culture and traditions.
- Visit the butterfly pavilion and the coral reef aquarium.
How to get there: It’s located about 1 hour south of Cancun. There are plenty of shuttle services available, and many hotels offer direct transfers to the park.
3. Isla Mujeres: A Gorgeous Island Escape
For a more laid-back day trip, take a ferry to Isla Mujeres. I loved spending time on this peaceful island, which is only a 15-20 minute ferry ride from Puerto Juarez in Cancun.
Things to do:
- Rent a golf cart and explore the island.
- Relax on Playa Norte, one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.
- Snorkel in Garrafon Natural Reef Park.
How to get there: The ferry departs regularly from the Puerto Juarez terminal, with tickets costing around $15 USD for a round trip.
4. Coco Bongo: Cancun’s Legendary Nightlife
For those looking for an unforgettable nightlife experience, Coco Bongo is a must-visit. Known for its spectacular shows, which combine acrobatics, music, and theatrical performances, Coco Bongo is unlike any other club I’ve visited.
Things to do:
- Enjoy live performances by tribute artists, acrobats, and dancers.
- Dance the night away to a mix of international music.
- Enjoy an open bar if you purchase VIP tickets.
How to get there: Coco Bongo is located in the Hotel Zone. Taxis are the easiest way to get there, or you can walk if you’re staying nearby.
Street Food in Cancun: A Taste of Local Flavor
One of my favorite parts of traveling in Cancun was the street food. From tacos to elotes (corn on the cob), Cancun’s street vendors offer some of the most delicious and authentic flavors in Mexico. Here are some must-try foods:
- Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork served in tacos with pineapple.
- Elotes: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder.
- Tostadas: Fried tortillas topped with ceviche, seafood, or chicken.
Street food safety tips:
- Stick to busy vendors that locals frequent.
- Look for vendors who serve food fresh and keep their stands clean.
- Avoid drinking tap water; always opt for bottled water.
Planning Your Trip and Budgeting
How to Plan Your Itinerary and Budget
I recommend using TourRadar.com for booking group tours and activities in advance. It made it so easy to compare prices and choose excursions based on my budget and interests.
When it comes to budgeting, Cancun can be affordable if you plan ahead. Many of the beaches and parks have entrance fees, but once you’re there, food and transportation can be quite reasonable. Be sure to leave room for a splurge at one of Cancun’s upscale beachfront restaurants or at Coco Bongo.
Travel Insurance: A Must-Have for Your Cancun Trip
Lastly, don’t forget to purchase travel insurance. I’ve had travel insurance for all my trips, and it’s always been a lifesaver. Whether it’s medical coverage or cancellation protection, having insurance allows you to enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.
Cancun is an amazing destination that offers much more than just a beach vacation. From exploring ancient ruins to diving into the vibrant culture, there’s so much to experience. By packing wisely, embracing local customs, and taking advantage of the top attractions, you’ll have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful Mexican city.
