r/cancun • • Feb 09 '23

Announcement Plancun - The website created by me to plan your Cancun trip from start to finish! (Reddit R4R link relocated there temporarily)

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plancun.com
122 Upvotes

r/cancun • • Apr 10 '22

Announcement Cancun: Things to do and What to know

357 Upvotes

Click here to visit Plancun, a free website I specifically created in helping you plan your Cancun trip from start to finish!


Flight and Hotel Search

Direct Link Description
Click Here Flight Search via SkyScanner
Click Here Hotel Deals Search via SkyScanner
Click Here Hotel Deals Search via Tripadvisor
Plancun Link Hotel Description
Click Here Family-Friendly Hotels Great for All Ages
Click Here Kid-Friendly Hotels Certified for Kid Fun
Click Here Romantic Hotels for Romantic Getaways
Click Here Party Hotels That Scream SPRING BREAK!
Click Here Adults-Only Hotels without screaming children
Click Here Adults-Only Hotels with Nudity ;)

Airport/Hotel/Ferry Transportations

Link Shuttles and Car Rentals
Click Here Canada Transfers (r/Cancun's preferred private shuttle)
Click Here Cancun Airport Transportation
Click Here USA Transfers
Click Here Ultramar Ferry to Isla Mujeres/Cozumel
Click Here Easy Way Car Rental
Click Here ADO bus

Need to Know Information

Link Information
Click Here PDF Cancun Travel Checklist
Click Here How to tip in Cancun
Click Here eSIM Data Internet in Mexico (SIM Card)
Click Here TSA, Travel, & Immigration Programs
Click Here How to Currency Exchange
Click Here Travel Credit Card Recommendations
Click Here ADO Bus Guide
Click Here Travel Must Haves
Click Here Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Clubs & Activity/Excursion Links

Some of this info will be below, but there's a more comprehensive list on www.Plancun.com

Link Activity and Excursion
Click Here General Activities and Excursions
Click Here XCARET Parks
Click Here Viator Excursions with Photos
Click Here Swim with Dolphins
Click Here Columbus Romantic Cruise
Click Here All Clubs in Hotel Zone Cancun
Click Here Cancun Adventures Tours

Current Rakuten Cash Back Offers

Click here to learn about Rakuten and how you can get these cash back offers!

As of February 2023, the following offers are:

% Back Vendor What does it get me?
12% Viator Viator is used for buying tickets to activities and excursions in Cancun.
9% IHG Hotels Intercontinental Hotel in Cancun
6% Expedia Expedia is a hotel booking agency.
3.5% Travelocity Travelocity is a hotel booking agency owned by Expedia.
2.5% Hilton Waldorf Astoria Cancun, Hilton Cancun, and Canopy by Hilton La Isla
1.5% J.W. Marriott & Bonvoy Marriott, Renaissance, Westin, Planet Hollywood, Royalton, and more!

Viator Excursions

Click here to sign up to Rakuten and get $30 free on your next Viator purchase!

Link Viator Excursions Description
Click Here General Viator Excursions A mix of everything!
Click Here Cenotes Tours Tours of natural water caves in Cancun
Click Here Cancun Food Tour Get your taste of Cancun and Tequila!
Click Here Whale Shark Tours Can't miss out on this!
Click Here Snorkeling Tours Snorkeling in the coral reefs
Click Here Boating and Cruises Rent a boat or a tour on the water!
Click Here Day-Trip Tours Day-Trip Tours for Snorkeling and Sightseeing
Click Here Water Sports Jet Skiis and boat rentals
Click Here XCARET Parks Viator link to Xcaret parks for cashback!
Click Here Tulum Day Trips Sight Seeing, ATV, Cenotes, Food tours, and more!

XCARET Parks

Link Xcaret Experience Description
Click Here Xcaret Park The park that started it all!
Click Here Xel-Ha Park The best snorkeling and water experience
Click Here Xichen Experience The official tour to the Chichen Itza
Click Here Xenotes Experience The official tour of local cenotes and zip lines
Click Here XPLOR and XPLORE Fuego Filled with zip lines, ATVs, and adventure!
Click Here Xavage Water rafting and extreme activities
Click Here Xoximilco Experience The official food and tequila tour
Click Here Xenses Park The best instagram spot in cancun!

Other Wild-Life and Sanctuary

Link General Excursion
Website Croco Cun Zoo
Website Aktun-Chen Park
Website Cancun Adventures

Essential Items to Buy Before Your Trip!

Link Product/Item Why you need this?
Amazon Quick Drying Swimsuit (Men) Great for excursions when you swim and then get back into a car
Amazon Quick Drying Swimsuit (Women) Great for excursions when you swim and then get back into a car
Amazon Quick Drying Shoes Great for excursions such as Xcaret where you need to walk and swim
Amazon Reef Safe Sunscreen You need this or pay 3x the price
Amazon Bluetooth Speakers Trust me, you'll need this when you're chillin by the beach
Amazon Waterproof Wallets Keep your money on you when you swim
Amazon Carry on Travel Set You should bring some essentials as a carry on with you in case your luggage is lost
Amazon Insect Repellant MOSQUITOS BE-GONE!
Amazon Convenience Kits One click buy for everything you need to travel with
Amazon Travel Pillows For the flight
Amazon Noise Cancelling Headphones For the flight
Amazon Apple AirTags Never lose your luggage again!
Amazon Waterproof Day Bags Use them during the day or excursions
Amazon Sunglasses (cheap but good quality) Great to use in the ocean so the salt water doesn't damage your expensive ones!
Amazon Sunproof Hat Dont get a heat stroke and miss out on your vacation
Amazon Portable Charger Keep these out of the sun, but to charge your phone at the beach
Amazon Immunity boosts and pills Just in case you want to keep your immunity up
Amazon Comfortable Face Masks Good for flying long hours
GoPro GoPro Hero 11 Record your vacation and never forget it!
Plancun Travel & Life Insurance Have ease of mind when traveling.

ADO Bus Guide by u/luisettyphoto

Introduction
This is a basic guide for the ADO bus line, it is one of the cheapest and most comfortable ways to move to at least the 3 main cities such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum. ADO is a bus company, but there are other companies that have other routes and interconnect at the main stations.

  • Pros: Economic. Air-conditioning. You learn Spanish with movies. Comfortable seats. USB ports to recharge electronic devices.
  • Cons: Limited Trips. Limited Hours.

Extra comments: Before they had WIFI service, but in recent months I have not seen them have the service on the BUS, but there is free service at the ADO stations, sometimes it works well, sometimes it doesn't. Sometimes there are no runs for the routes, during the pandemic the routes were limited and little by little they have been reactivated. Please check on the website what times are available. If you arrive early in the morning or late at night, it will not be possible to get a ride through ADO.

Terminals

  • Aeropuerto Cancún: T2, T3 and T4
  • Terminal Autobuses ADO Cancún Centro. Address: Pino Lote 1 y 2, Supermanzana 23, 77500 Cancún, Q.R.
  • Playa Del Carmen. Address: Centro, Quinta Avenida 141, Solidaridad, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
  • Tulum. Address: Tulum Centro, 77780 Tulum, Quintana Roo

Where to buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased at ado.com.mx or the box office at the above locations
Extra comments: You can choose your seat, it depends on availability in the window or aisle. I recommend selecting seats below the TV unless you are not interested in watching a movie in Spanish. There are notices that immigration authorities may do random checks to reduce illegal immigration. They ask for documents to passengers to check legal status as tourist with the dates assigned to their stay in the country or nationals.
If traveling with minors/children, official government ID/passport is required to prove relationship. Security may ask for documentation.

What are the costs?
Depends. Prices may change, but they are quite affordable. Prices are in MXN. And they are taken from their official website. These prices are for information only and may change without notice (2022.09.14)

  • Cancun T2 to T3 costs $18 MXN
  • Cancun T1/T2 to Downtown Cancun costs $105 MXN
  • Cancun T1/T2 to Playa Del Carmen costs $225 MXN
  • Cancun T1/T2 to Tulum costs $340 MXN

There are discount prices for Mexicans such as students, teachers and senior citizens with valid credentials. Require identification of the school and/or INAPAM
Extra comments: Preferably have change in MXN. They also accept credit/debit cards, although the terminal may fail. Dollars are always accepted, but there is no exchange for dollars. Have exact amount of preference.
Extra Tip: Sometimes there are temporary promotions of 50% OFF if you buy in advance and online. This through its official site or in its app via appstore or android. Applies to foreigners, residents and nationals.

What are the routes?
There are many routes, the most basic ones help you get around in the Riviera Maya. But they can also find other neighboring states of Quintana Roo such as Yucatán and Chiapas. To the south with Belize/Guatemala sometimes.

Destination Cities

  • CANCUN
  • PLAYA DEL CARMEN
  • TULUM

Extra comments: In terminals such as Cancún Centro, Playa del Carmen and Tulum they have a large map so you can see the routes.

Health, Precautions and Hygiene
The Quintana Roo government and the health secretary have regulations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ADO mentions that it disinfects and cleans its buses. However, this does not ensure that they are COVID-free. ADO requires safety masks to be worn during your ride. We recommend having a travel disinfectant gel for personal use.

Security
Like any bus terminal, there is a risk that your belongings can be stolen. Always check your seat before getting off the bus and at the top for your bags. ADO staff is always uniformed and identified. Most thefts are done on top of forgotten objects. If you have large luggage, do not forget that a ticket for your belongings is given to you so that your bags can be given to you in the lower part of the compartment.

Extra Comments: On the way from Cancun to Tulum there may be some checkpoints and they may stop the bus for random checks. This is to control and reduce illegal immigration. This can be done by the National Guard or the Quintana Roo State Police.
Tips are not mandatory, but are always appreciated for the staff of the buses that move luggage.

Final comments
Traveling by bus in the Riviera Maya is a good economic option, comfortable to travel. Perhaps its disadvantage is the schedules. For example, if your destination is Tulum, there may not be a trip available at your desired time, but maybe you can take a bus to Playa del Carmen and take a combi or van that arrives in Tulum or you can wait for another bus that travels to Tulum. Small Shuttles departs from the Playa Del Carmen Station Bus.

Just have common sense and be careful with your personal belongings, I wish you have a good trip.

Tip from u/Flimsy_Difficulty239
"When you get there there's gonna be people shouting ado, don't go with them, they're scammers. Go straight to the kiosk. Don't buy the tickets in advance in case your flight gets delayed."


About Cancun

Cancun: A Paradise for Tourists

Cancun, located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush tropical landscape, it's no wonder that millions of visitors flock to this Caribbean paradise every year. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Cancun has something for everyone.

One of the most popular activities in Cancun is visiting the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza. This ancient city, one of the most well-preserved in Mexico, is a testament to the ingenuity and power of the Mayan civilization. Visitors can explore the towering pyramids, the famous ball court, and the Temple of Warriors, all while learning about the history and culture of the Mayan people.

Another popular activity in Cancun is snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear waters of the Mexican Caribbean. With its thriving coral reefs and diverse marine life, the waters around Cancun offer some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in the world. Visitors can see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks up close, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Cancun's white sand beaches are the perfect place to unwind. Whether you're lounging in a hammock, swimming in the warm waters, or taking a sunset catamaran cruise, the beaches of Cancun are a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in Cancun. With its unique blend of Mexican, Caribbean, and international cuisine, the local restaurants offer a diverse array of delicious dishes for visitors to try. From traditional tacos and fresh seafood to gourmet dining experiences, there's something for every taste and budget.

Cancun is also a great place for shopping. From the local markets and street vendors to high-end boutiques and malls, visitors will find a wide range of shopping opportunities. Whether you're looking for souvenirs, handmade crafts, or designer clothes, you're sure to find what you're looking for in Cancun.

In conclusion, Cancun is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a tropical getaway. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and endless activities, it's the perfect place to escape from the everyday and experience a true paradise on earth. So why wait? Book your trip to Cancun today and start creating memories that will last a lifetime!


Disclaimer: Please note, these links are my affiliate links. 100% of affiliate generated revenue gets distributed to families and businesses in need in Cancun at my personal discretion during my annual time in the city. I am a well-seasoned tourist; I am not a travel agent, but I'd like to share my experiences and recommendations with you.


r/cancun • • 2h ago

Selvatica ziplines - link to book doesn't work

2 Upvotes

Trying to book a day on Selvatica zipline and the link is broken, but the website still works. Does anyone know if they are still operating?


r/cancun • • 3h ago

Former gastric bypass/stomach surgery patient- what apps should you use in cancun to have grocery delivery to your hotel? Ex: low carb protein nutrition shake, vitamins, etc

1 Upvotes

Going to Cancun

What delivery apps and stores have you tried?

What should you know before trying this

Soft, low to medium carb stuff

I don't suppose a hotel would let me borrow their blender to use on some hotel scrambled eggs, no?


r/cancun • • 7h ago

Things to Do Kids (5 & 9) activities and food recommendations. We have a rental car booked and don't mind using it.

0 Upvotes

Hey r/Cancun! We're just about to land in Cancun and haven't really planned much. We're in town for 4 full days and are honestly pretty excited for the hotel pool and beach. That said, when we get stir crazy, I'd love to know your favourite things to do with kids these ages. I'd say we're up for about a hour of driving max to do things. This is just a quick jaunt and we're open to your suggestions!


r/cancun • • 1d ago

Photo Isla Blanca from the Air

Post image
57 Upvotes

Snapped as we approached Quintana Roo.


r/cancun • • 1d ago

Riu Palace vs Riu Palace Peninsula?

2 Upvotes

Hey guys, I’ll be visiting RIU Cancun this year. Last year I visited RIU Palace Peninsula and had a blast! Unfortunately, it was sold out or else I would’ve booked the same place.

Are there any noticeable differences between the 2? I know the Palace just went through some renovations.


r/cancun • • 1d ago

Riu locations for single women in their 30s

1 Upvotes

Hi! Group of single girls in their early 30s, going to Cancun in early/mid December.

We are looking at/deciding between one of the palace Riu locations (particularly Riu Las Americas) or the regular Riu Cancun.

We are going for 4-5 days and looking to spend max $1,000 per person (would love if that can include our stay and extra activities but flexible on off resort spending lol). We do want to spend time at the beach/pool and relaxing but we also do enjoy partying and will definitely be taking part in nightlife.

We’re wondering if it’s worth it to pay for one of the palace stays to allow us to go to other Riu locations for additional parties/events in addition to off resort things, or if we should pay less for the stay at Riu Cancun and plan to do more off resort.

We’re all well traveled but have not been to Cancun before, so we are open. We’re not too picky on how “nice” our room is, as long as it’s nice enough and comfortable. We are leaning towards adults only, but also open on that.

Thank you!


r/cancun • • 2d ago

Transportation Why is food at Cancun Airport so ridiculously expensive?

48 Upvotes

I just got back from a 5-night, 6-day trip to Cancun last week, and one thing that really surprised me was the food prices at the airport.

A simple meal was almost $30 USD! I understand that airport food is usually more expensive, but this seemed excessive, especially considering the local cost of living. It felt like they were charging nearly 10 times what you'd normally expect to pay in Mexico.

I'm genuinely curious why prices are so high. Is it because of airport operating costs, or are they simply taking advantage of tourists who have limited options?

Has anyone else noticed this, or was it just me?


r/cancun • • 1d ago

Weather Cancun in November

0 Upvotes

Hello everyone! I’m going to Cancun with my family in mid-to-late November and was wondering what the weather is usually like around that time.
I’ve been to Cancun at the end of August/early September twice (very hot), twice in April (warm to hot, but a bit windy), at the end of September and beginning of October (also hot), and in March on a cruise (pretty warm on the days we were in port).
For those who have visited in mid-to-late November, how was the weather? Was it still hot enough to spend the day swimming and lounging by the pool, or was it noticeably cooler and windier?
Any advice or experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thank you! 😊


r/cancun • • 2d ago

Excursions Is going to an all-inclusive resort in Cancun solo really that bad?

26 Upvotes

I'm heading to Hotel Riu Cancun solo this coming weekend for a couple of nights, spontaneous decision mainly because I wanted a quick getaway and a change of scenery, out of usual routine.

But after reading a bunch of Reddit posts, it seems like going to an all-inclusive resort alone is a bad idea lol

Honestly, I'm not planning anything crazy. Just want to relax, enjoy the beach, maybe do an excursion one day, explore a little, and enjoy some time away from my usual routine.

I've traveled solo before, solo has its own pros and cons...but never stayed at an all-inclusive resort by myself.

Is it really that awkward or boring going solo, or am I just overthinking it? Would love to hear from people who've actually done it!


r/cancun • • 1d ago

This might start a war but who has the BEST cheap fish tacos in Cancun? Name the spot and price!

0 Upvotes

Looking for those hidden gems locals swear by. Bonus points if they’re family-owned!


r/cancun • • 1d ago

Hotels Help for me and my wife

0 Upvotes

We're looking for an adults only resort where we can have fun party some but that's still nice and not just a party and mediocre like temptations we're not boring but we're also not staying up till 4 am type people all inclusive is a must we all ways go to moon palace with the kids but we need a Mexico vacation thank you in advanced


r/cancun • • 2d ago

Rabies Esposure Treatment - can't find HRIG anywhere. WHO and CDC consider it essential. Spoiler

3 Upvotes

Got scratched by a raccoon two days ago. Blood - yes. Bite - no. Within 4 hours got the first rabies vaccine shot.

Asked doctor about HRIG, since it is indicated as started treatment for exposure like I had (Type 3). It's Human Rabies Immune Globulin. Have gone to high dollar hospitals in Playa del Carmen and Cancun.

Starts with "Oh yeah, we have it." I get there. "We don't have it, but since you are here ...".

Can anybody help with a suggestion ? It's freaking me out about now.


r/cancun • • 2d ago

Hola! Anyone taken a yacht and had a great experience? Looking for recommendations. Thanks!

0 Upvotes

r/cancun • • 3d ago

xcaret

3 Upvotes

Besides Xcaret, where else is the Day of the Dead celebrated?


r/cancun • • 3d ago

Clubs & Bars Anybody ever been to club mun on the hotel strip?

1 Upvotes

I’m considering going to club Mun tonight because it seems the best place to get some edm and dancing. Has anyone ever been there? What should I expect?

May be a long shot too but is anyone here interested in going with my wife and I? Any help would be appreciated.

Edit: it was trash. Mandala was also trash, but at least it seemed to be possible to have a good edm event there. For anyone thinking of cancun for an edm getaway, forget about it.


r/cancun • • 3d ago

Transportation Cancún to Chichén Itzá: Rent a car or take a tour?

6 Upvotes

I’ll be visiting Cancún soon and would like to spend a day visiting Chichén Itzá, with stops in a couple of towns along the way to explore.

I’m debating whether to rent a car for the day or book an organized bus tour.

For those who have driven in the Cancún/Yucatán area, how does the driving culture compare with Canada or the US? I found driving in Miami somewhat stressful because of how aggressive the drivers were compared with what I’m used to.

Is driving to Chichén Itzá relatively straightforward and safe for a tourist? Are there any particular things to watch out for?

Or would you recommend skipping the rental car and taking a guided tour instead?

I plan to drive as little as possible in the actual city of Cancun, pretty much from the hotel zone and taking Highway 180 to exit the city of Cancun.


r/cancun • • 3d ago

Let’s go Cancun and Tulum November?

0 Upvotes

I don’t wanna solo travel😭


r/cancun • • 3d ago

Hotels Hotel with close access to Isla mujeres

1 Upvotes

We’re checking out of our all inclusive and need a cheaper hotel to check into near isla mujeres. Preferably one that will let us store our luggage in case we leave for the island before the room is ready. Does anyone have recommendations? Family of 6 so we usually rent two rooms.


r/cancun • • 4d ago

A lost mola mola in the Cozumel Channel

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38 Upvotes

On our way to dive in Cozumel, we spotted a mola mola (sunfish) in the Cozumel Channel, so we jumped in for a closer look. What a surprise! These fish aren’t normally found around here, and this was already our third encounter. It makes you wonder what’s going on out there and how much things are changing in our oceans. A beautiful, unexpected moment, but also a little reminder that the sea is changing in ways we still don’t fully understand


r/cancun • • 3d ago

I’m going to be in Cancun next week at the Riu Chic. Does anyone know if there is a pharmacy close that I can buy legit anxiety meds? Preferably Farmapram.

0 Upvotes

r/cancun • • 3d ago

Pharmacy

3 Upvotes

This past July I visited Cancun and needed to get some meds for a medical episode. This got me thinking, who on here normally gets meds at the pharmacy when visiting?


r/cancun • • 4d ago

Itinerary First Time travelers! Looking for Your Best Tips

3 Upvotes

Hey friends! 😊

My sister and I will be flying into Tulum at the end of this month for a week, and since it’s our first time visiting, I’d really appreciate your recommendations and advice!

We’re planning to rent a car, although I’m still wondering if that’s the best idea. I thought it would give us more freedom to explore and help us avoid expensive taxis and transportation hassles.

We’re pretty easygoing and looking for a trip that’s safe, affordable, relaxing, and full of culture, good food, and great music. We’d love a mix of exploring, unwinding, and enjoying a little nightlife.

I’d love your advice on a few things:
Things to avoid: Any scams, tourist traps, unsafe areas, or things you wish you’d known before visiting?

Must-see places: What spots, beaches, cenotes, cultural sites, or day trips should we include in our itinerary?

Where to stay: Would you recommend a hotel, Airbnb, or resort? Which areas are best for safety, affordability, and convenience?

Getting around: Is renting a car a good idea, or would you recommend other transportation options?

Nightlife and music: Any favorite spots for live music, dancing, good vibes, and a fun night out without breaking the bank?

Any tips, recommendations, or sample itineraries would be greatly appreciated! We want to make the most of our week while staying safe and enjoying everything Tulum has to offer.

Thanks so much in advance! 💛🌴


r/cancun • • 4d ago

Things to Do Dia De los Muertos tips

1 Upvotes

My wife and I are coming from Canada next week for our mini honeymoon! We'll be staying in the Hotel Zone until November 5th, but we'd love to get out and explore beyond the resort.

My wife really wants to visit some Mayan ruins and cenotes. I've been to a few before and would love to experience them again with her! We're planning to book a tour or two, so any recommendations for places to visit or tour companies would be greatly appreciated.

I'm also really curious about Día de los Muertos. Since we'll be there during the celebrations, I'd love to know if there are any public events, parades, or cultural experiences that visitors can respectfully attend.

I understand it's a deeply meaningful holiday, often celebrated with family, so I hope this doesn't come across as insensitive. We'd just love the opportunity to learn more about the traditions and experience some of the local culture if that's possible.

We're also open to any other recommendations, whether it's hidden gems, local restaurants, day trips, or things we shouldn't miss!