15 of the Top Things To Do in Cancun Per Viator Travelers

What?: A trip to Chichen Itza should definitely be on your Cancun itinerary—after all, it is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in Mexico. On a guided tour, learn how the Maya people built the massive Kukulkan Pyramid and how astronomy was an integral part of their culture.

When?: Chichen Itza is about two hours by car from Cancun. Tours leave throughout the day, but you'll want to make sure you factor in enough time for exploring before you need to head back.

What one reviewer said: "Well planned, very enjoyable! Guides were nice and very informative. The cenote swimming was amazing! Communication leading up to the tour was good. Would definitely recommend!" JOSHUA_B, March 2025

What?: One of the top attractions in Cancun is the Rio Secreto Nature Reserve, a "secret river" where you can swim in caves dripping in stalactites and stalagmites. Join a guided tour to don a wetsuit and helmet and make your way through the caves.

When?: You'll find a variety of tours to Rio Secreto, many of which combine a morning visit with a stop at Tulum or lunch.

What one reviewer said: We had an amazing adventure with Giselle and Luciano. We felt safe during the whole experience … I'm not sure I even have the words to describe the caves. They were almost magical. Would definitely recommend this tour.” Barb_H, February 2025

What?: A snorkeling tour is one of the top things to do in Cancun, so you'll want to include it on your activities list. Many snorkeling excursions take you to explore the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA) and the reef at Manchones, where you might spot sea turtles along the way. Some tours include lunch and drinks.

When?: Daily tours are available, typically leaving around lunchtime.

What one reviewer said: "Ulysses and our driver were very friendly and engaged. He pointed out fish to be sure we saw everything. Made us feel safe and seemed like he enjoyed his job. It was a fun trip!" Kerry_D, July 2024

What?: Cancun's proximity to Tulum means that you can easily pop over on a day trip to see this ancient city overlooking the Caribbean Sea. There are a few cenotes along the drive, so many Tulum tours include a chance to swim in one before heading back.

When?: It takes about two hours to get to Tulum from Cancun, so you'll want to book a tour early in the day to maximize your time.

What one reviewer said: "It was such a lovely, relaxing day. We got to snorkel and loved seeing all the fish underneath. The cenote was my favorite part. Definitely recommend it!" Erin_H, February 2025

What?: If you didn't get to swim in a cenote when visiting Tulum, it is worth it to book an excursion just for that. These limestone sinkholes filled with water are perfect for swimming and most Cancun travel guides include them as a must-do activity. Many tours visit Grand Cenote (Gran Cenote), but you can find ones that go to lesser-known spots.

When?: Tours often depart in the morning and include a beach stop for lunch before returning to Cancun.

What one reviewer said: "Swimming with the turtles and in the cenote was amazing! The spot we ate lunch was beautiful and the staff were very nice and helpful when we needed to get to a different end point." Stacey_L, February 2025

What?: It's easy to stick to your favorites when dining out, but one of the best ways to get to know a new culture is by sampling local delicacies and cuisine. Try a wide variety of tacos on a Cancun taco tour, including different styles and fillings.

When?: Taco tours run daily in the evening hours. Come hungry, as tours include multiple tastings.

What one reviewer said: "I have done this tour twice now. It is amazing. The food is the best. The tour guide is amazing. This is a must-do in Cancun. I also recommend it to friends when they came, and they loved it. This was the highlight of my trip." Karan_G, February 2025

What?: One of the best Cancun activities is ziplining, as you get to head into the jungle and away from the beach for the day. Most tours include ATV rides and a swim in a cenote, so you'll get the full Cancun adventure experience in one package.

When?: Tours are offered daily, and leave in the morning to return after an included lunch.

What one reviewer said: "This was extremely fun! We booked the basic package and felt that it was an awesome value for the price! We were busy all day; we never felt rushed or overcrowded or like we missed out on anything. Fantastic time." Alexa_B, February 2025

What?: If you visit Cancun in the summer months, don’t miss the chance to book a whale shark tour for the opportunity to see these amazing (and large!) creatures in the water. Whale sharks are not sharks at all, but rather the largest fish in the world, and snorkeling near them is a truly magical experience.

When?: The best time of year to see whale sharks in Cancun is from June through to mid-September.

What one reviewer said: "First, we found dolphins and were able to dive in with them. Let me just say I was in awe! I have swum with dolphins many times but this was the most exceptional. Then we finally found a whale shark and were able to dive in with him. The whole experience was magical." Lisa_C, September 2024

What?: If you’ve enjoyed local cuisine during your Cancun trip, book a cooking class to learn about local ingredients and how to make a meal you can recreate when you get back home. When you taste the difference between a store-bought tortilla and a homemade one, you won't go back.

When?: Tours are offered on weekdays from late morning; you'll get to enjoy the fruits of your labor at the end of the class for lunch.

What one reviewer said: "A fun, informative, and VERY tasty time. It was better than we had hoped. Looking forward to coming back to Mexico and trying other local cuisine." Paul_W, January 2025

What?: Head to Isla Mujeres to experience one of the top Cancun sightseeing spots, and it's just a short ferry ride away. Book a private catamaran for the day and head to the island to enjoy snorkeling in coral reefs and all-day party vibes.

When?: Start in the morning hours to make the most of your day, or book an afternoon excursion to catch the sunset and enjoy some onboard drinks.

What one reviewer said: "Great experience, we had so much fun. It was windy the day of our trip, so they put us in a bigger boat at no extra charge. The crew was great, and our tour guide was so funny and accommodating. I would definitely recommend the private tour for your family as you get all the boat to yourself, and you can go anywhere you want." Vyona_H, February 2025

What?: It's also worth a trip to the nearby Playa del Carmen to spend the day at Xcaret, an eco-adventure park. Skip the hassle of driving and book a tour that includes pickup and drop-off at your Cancun hotel. You'll get to see performances and enjoy all the attractions, such as the butterfly pavilion and underground swimming caves.

When?: Tours are offered daily, but it’s best to choose an early departure to maximize your time in the park.

What one reviewer said: "Xcaret is a full day of fun and a total cultural immersion in the evening. We absolutely loved it. Family fun for everyone. The food was fabulous, too!" Anna_R, January 2025

What?: Combine souvenir shopping with sightseeing during a walking tour that covers both. You can snap some photos, then pick up some trinkets to remind yourself of your visit. Tequila and chocolate tastings are offered along the way.

When?: Tours are typically offered Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, starting in the morning.

What one reviewer said: "It was an amazing experience touring Cancun, I loved It! I would recommend this tour to all of my family and friends." Sharon_W, July 2024

What?: If you want to feel the party vibes, you can add Xoximilco to your Cancun itinerary. This floating garden is an homage to the famous canals in Mexico City; book an Xoxilco tour to enjoy live music, food, and drinks while floating through the lovely outdoor space.

When?: Tours take place Monday through Saturday in the evening. Transportation is included.

What one reviewer said: "The experience is very fun. We ate, drank, and partied the whole time. Our guide Alexander was great and very funny. He kept the drinking going. There are different types of music along the way, so there is something for everyone. Will definitely go again when I get a chance." Vanessa_P, January 2025

What?: One of the top non-beach activities in Cancun involves visiting the Museo Maya de Cancun. Here, you'll learn about the Maya culture through artifacts and archaeological discoveries. Join a tour to combine a museum visit with a meal and shopping stop for a full afternoon of fun.

When?: Tours are available daily, with the choice of morning or early afternoon start times.

What one reviewer said: "The tour is fun. Visiting the jewelry store and tequila tasting is a lot of fun. We love dining at the Mexican restaurant with gift shop. Their tacos and drinks are very good." Seh_L, December 2024

What?: You probably didn't imagine a pirate ship adventure would be on your Cancun itinerary, but this highly-rated experience is a visitor favorite. Set sail on the Jolly Roger—you'll be instantly mesmerized by the pirate performance—followed by dinner and a fireworks show to the end of the night.

When?: This tour sets sail early in the evening daily.

What one reviewer said: "Absolutely amazing, the experience was surreal, acting 10/10, service 10/10, and drinks 10/10. Great for couples and family, very entertaining. We had Bonnie as our server, [and she was] super sweet and tended to our every need! One of many great excursions in Cancun." Yoshada_S, August 2024