Yucatán 10 Day Itinerary Cenotes and Caribbean Beaches

Dreaming of sun, sea, and white-sand beaches — but craving something more than just a beach holiday?

Welcome to Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, the perfect blend of tropical paradise and ancient wonders. Explore the legendary Maya city of Chichén Itzá, climb the temple ruins at Uxmal, snorkel the vibrant reefs of Cozumel, and wander the oceanfront ruins of Tulum. History and culture come alive here, where the legacy of ancient civilizations and Spanish conquistadors still shapes the land. Grab your rental car and set off to discover everything this unforgettable region has to offer. Bienvenidos a México!

Highlights of a Yucatán adventure:

Stand in awe at Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
Relax on the powder-white beaches of Tulum and Cancún
Snorkel among colorful marine life at the Cozumel reefs
Dive into Yucatán’s mystical cenotes, natural pools that feel like another world

Day 1: Arrive in Cancún

Program: Arrive in sunny Cancún, where your rental car will be waiting for you. From here, your Yucatán journey begins — a mix of turquoise seas, ancient Maya wonders, and hidden cenotes.

Accommodation: Oh! – The Urban Oasis / Adhara or similar

Day 2: Cancún & Cenotes

Program: Take it easy this morning to recover from your flight, then explore lively Zona Hotelera at your own pace. In the afternoon, begin your drive west toward Valladolid, stopping at the mystical X-Can Che Cenote — sacred to the ancient Maya. Cenotes are scattered all over Yucatán, so if one isn’t enough, keep an eye out for signs to hidden pools. Just before Valladolid, discover the secret cenote of X’Lakaj for a magical swim.

Accommodation: Mayan Majesty Boutique Hotel / Casa Quetzal Boutique Hotel or similar

Day 3: Chichén Itzá & Izamal

Program: Today you visit Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Once the most important Maya city (11th–13th centuries), its highlights include the massive ball court, the observatory, and the Kukulcán Pyramid, where the legendary equinox serpent-shadow appears. Explore on your own, or hire an official guide (extra cost) for deeper insights. After lunch, stop at Izamal, the charming “Yellow Town,” before continuing to colonial Mérida. In the evening, enjoy a cultural or culinary show — almost always happening in Mérida’s lively plazas.

Accommodation: Boutique Casa Flor de Mayo / Caribe Mérida
Restaurant option: Amaro

Day 4: Mérida & Surroundings

Program: In the morning, head to Celestún Reserve (Oct–Mar) to see flamingos in their natural habitat, with a boat trip and fresh seafood lunch by the water. From Apr–Sep, enjoy alternatives like the relaxed beach town of Sisal or a visit to Hacienda Teya with a traditional Yucatecan lunch. In the afternoon, discover Mérida, the colonial pearl of Yucatán, with its grand mansions along Paseo Montejo, its cathedral, and the Governor’s Palace.

Accommodation: Boutique Casa Flor de Mayo / Caribe Mérida
Restaurant option: Amaro

Day 5: Yaxcopoil, Chocolate Museum & Uxmal

Program: On the road to Uxmal, stop at Yaxcopoil Hacienda, once a thriving sisal plantation. Before reaching the ruins, visit the Chocolate Museum, where you’ll learn how cacao — sacred to the Maya — became the world’s favorite treat. Then, explore Uxmal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its well-preserved temples and palaces. Highlights include the Governor’s Palace, the Pyramid of the Magician, and the Nunnery Quadrangle. In the evening, continue toward Campeche.

Accommodation: López Campeche / Hotel Francis Drake
Restaurant & nightlife option: Calle 59 (between 8 and 12)

Day 6: Campeche & Calakmul

Program: Discover Campeche, one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial cities, with its pastel-colored, UNESCO-listed walled center. If you prefer adventure, set out early for the hidden jungle ruins of Calakmul. Climb ancient pyramids, gaze across the endless forest canopy, and watch for monkeys, toucans, and if you’re lucky — even a wild jaguar.

Accommodation: Chicanna Ecovillage Resort / Casa Maya Calakmul

Day 7: Bacalar & Sian Ka’an

Program: After breakfast, drive to Bacalar and its stunning “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” Kayak, paddleboard, or take a boat tour to explore its shimmering waters and unique ecosystem. In the afternoon, continue to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in biodiversity. From Muyil, take a low-impact boat tour through mangroves and lagoons. Before boarding, walk the jungle boardwalks to discover hidden Maya ruins.

Accommodation: Boutique Jabin Tulum / Mestizo Gallery

Day 8 :Tulum

Program: Visit the walled city of Tulum, the only Maya site overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The dramatic ruins, perched against turquoise waters, make for unforgettable photos. After exploring the temples, relax on one of Tulum’s famous white-sand beaches, loved by honeymooners and travelers alike.

Accommodation: Boutique Jabin Tulum / Mestizo Gallery

Day 9: Isla Cozumel or Playa del Carmen

Program: Travel to Playa del Carmen, where you can shop for souvenirs, relax on the beach, or take the ferry across to Isla Cozumel. Known for its rich marine biodiversity, Cozumel is a paradise for snorkeling and diving among coral reefs. Other activities include windsurfing, kayaking, cycling, or exploring the island by scooter. You can bring your car on the ferry, though it’s costly and best booked in advance.

Accommodation: Casa Kaoba / Hotel 52