Kicking it in Cancún: Three downtime activities to try

Image Source: foundtheworld.com

Cancún, situated on the Yucatan Peninsula in southern New Mexico, is known worldwide for its beach parties and vibrant nightlife. However, for those who want to kick their feet up after a night of dancing, Cancún also offers activities that are quieter, but just as fun. The following are three activities visitors to Cancún can try on their downtime.

Educational trip to the Museo Maya de Cancún

A visit to the Museo Maya de Cancún provides a welcome respite from the party scene and an opportunity for visitors to learn more about ancient Mayan civilization. The museum is home to more than 300 interesting artifacts and three exhibitions. One of the pieces on display is La Mujer de las Palmas, or the Woman of the Palms, one of the oldest sets of human remains ever to be found in the Americas.

The San Miguelito archaeological site, located on the museum grounds, features shaded paths leading to ancient ruins and is a great way to cap off a museum visit.

Image Source: sipse.com

Side trip to Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy is a tiny island and nature reserve a short distance away from Cancún. It’s home to four species of turtle and more than 150 species of migratory and resident birds. Visitors can spend an idyllic afternoon bird-watching on a boat near the nesting area for a small fee, or take a tour guided by one of the island’s resident marine biologists.

Swim in a cenote at Chichen-Itza

Chichen-Itza is one of the most popular archaeological sites in Mexico. The sprawling area features ancient pyramids, temples, sculptures, and cenotes. Cenotes are limestone pits filled with water from subterranean sources. The cenotes in Chichen-Itza, particularly the Cenote Sagrado, were likely used by the Mayans for human sacrifice, as archaeologists have found numerous human remains at the bottom of the limestone pit. Despite this, many travelers like to finish a Chichen-Itza tour with a refreshing dip in the waters of one of its cenotes. Ik Kil was once used by the Mayans for relaxation as well as sacred rituals. Today, tourists can bathe in the refreshing clear blue waters of this 90-feet-deep cenote.

Image Source: maryloudriedger2.wordpress.com

Cancún truly has something for everyone, from party-seekers eager to experience Cancún’s legendary nightlife, to those who want to kick back and relax while basking in the sun.

For more information on affordable Cancún vacations, subscribe to this Preferred Guest Resorts blog.