Cancun
Overview of Cancun
Located on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, the world-famous beach resort hub of Cancun was once a humble fishing village but has blossomed into a city which caters mostly to tourists in search of sand, sun, and surf. The city is dominated by the hotel zone, blessed with all the amenities visitors could possibly desire.
Cancun’s downtown area, home to the locals, is often overlooked by foreigners. Downtown Cancun is less glamorous than the glitzy beachfront, but it does allow travellers to experience a more authentic Mexican community, with bustling markets, cheap restaurants, vendors, and street performers.
As a beach resort Cancun is inexhaustibly popular and its reputation is well deserved: the powdery white sand and clear waters make for a Caribbean paradise where watersports are the main diversion. Scuba divers and snorkellers flock to the region for some of the best coral reef diving in the world (particularly around the island of Cozumel).
The variety and quality of accommodation in Cancun is superb and the nightlife is extremely energetic, making it a great favourite with young Americans. The city offers splendid shopping and eating out venues and there are some remarkable Mayan ruins nearby for a touch of culture and history on a beach holiday. The only real disadvantage of Cancun as a holiday destination is the crowds which descend on the small coastal city: Spring Break (March and April) is best avoided.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Spanish is the official language in Mexico. Some English is spoken in tourist regions.
- Passport/Visa:
All foreign passengers to Mexico must hold a Mexico Visitor’s Permit (FMM), which is issued free of charge, and obtainable from airlines, Mexican Consulates, Mexican international airports, and border crossing points. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers transiting through the United States are required to present a passport, or other valid travel document, to enter or re-enter the United States. Foreign passengers to Mexico should ensure that their passports and other travel documents are in good condition – even slightly torn passports will not be accepted. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
Mexican currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), divided into 100 centavos. Credit cards are widely accepted, particularly Visa, MasterCard and American Express. ATMs are available in most cities and towns and are the most convenient way to get money, but for safety reasons should only be used during business hours and vigilance is advised. Although many businesses will accept foreign currency (particularly US Dollars), it’s best to use pesos. Foreign currency can be exchanged at one of many casas de cambio (exchange houses), which have longer hours and offer a quicker service than the banks.
- Electricity:
- 110-120 volts, 60Hz. Two-pin flat blade attachment plugs are standard.
Travel to Cancun
Climate for Cancun
The Yucatan Peninsula, including Cancun, is the hottest and most tropical part of Mexico, especially from June to August when humidity is high and average highs peak at 93°F (34°C). Low temperatures rarely drop below 68°F (20°C) and humidity tends to be high all year, although coastal breezes have a pleasant cooling effect on hot days. The rainy season runs from May to October and is characterised by late afternoon tropical showers, usually lasting for a short time only. Cancun lies within the Atlantic Hurricane Belt and the flat terrain makes the Yucatan Peninsula especially vulnerable to storms, particularly between June and October. In fact, big storms can affect Cancun at any time of year, but although they can be violent they are usually short-lived. On average April is the driest month and October is the wettest.
The peak tourist season in Cancun runs from December to April, when the weather is warm and the sea reliably calm, making it a good time for watersports and scuba diving. Out of this peak season, prices at the resorts tend to drop dramatically and the peninsula is less crowded. Although the threat of hurricanes puts some travellers off, between June and October the weather can be wonderful – hot with cooling winds – and can be a great time to visit if no storms hit.
7 day forecast for Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| Wednesday Dec. 18, 2024 | Thursday Dec. 19, 2024 | Friday Dec. 20, 2024 | Saturday Dec. 21, 2024 | Sunday Dec. 22, 2024 | Monday Dec. 23, 2024 | Tuesday Dec. 24, 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hi: 83°F Lo: 76°F  Scattered clouds | Hi: 81°F Lo: 74°F  Broken clouds | Hi: 79°F Lo: 70°F Broken clouds | Hi: 76°F Lo: 67°F  Overcast | Hi: 74°F Lo: 67°F Overcast | Hi: 76°F Lo: 65°F Cloudy | Hi: 79°F Lo: 63°F Broken clouds |
Health Notes when travelling to Mexico
Those entering Mexico from an infected area require a yellow fever certificate. Malaria and dengue fever exist in some rural areas but not on the Pacific and Gulf coasts, while travellers who come into close contact with animals should consider a rabies vaccination.
Sensible precautions regarding food and water should be followed, and visitors are advised to stick to bottled water. Medical facilities are basic, so comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. As medicines may be in short supply, travellers should consider taking prescription medications in their original packaging, accompanied by a signed and dated letter from a doctor detailing what it is and why it is needed.
Zika is still a risk in Mexico. Because Zika infection in a pregnant woman can cause serious birth defects, women who are pregnant should seek advice from healthcare providers before travelling to Mexico.
Safety Notes when travelling to Mexico
There can be incidents of robberies in the big cities such as Mexico City. Travellers, particularly women on their own, should be vigilant and take care of their belongings, especially on public transport. Only use authorised taxi services and try to avoid bus travel at night.
Visitors are advised to be wary of people presenting themselves as police officers attempting to fine or arrest them for no apparent reason, leading to theft or assault. If in doubt, ask for identification.
Most of the violence related to drug cartel wars in Mexico is concentrated along the border between Mexico and the United States, with tourist zones generally unaffected. Hurricanes may affect the coastal areas between June and November.
Customs in Mexico
Mexicans are not impatient and do not appreciate impatience in others, so travellers should expect opening hours and public transport times to be flexible and laid back. Mexicans are friendly and hospitable people, with courteous behaviour greatly appreciated. Travellers should also note that it is common for Mexicans to communicate closer than one arm’s length from each other and that it’s not an attempt to be forward.
Duty Free in Mexico
Travellers to Mexico over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 200g tobacco; 3 litres spirits or 6 litres wine; other goods to the value of US$500 if arriving by air, or US$300 if arriving by land are premitted without incurring duty fees. Prohibited goods include narcotics, firearms and used clothing that is not part of your personal luggage. The export of archaeological artefacts is strictly forbidden.
Doing Business in Mexico
In Mexico, business is ideally conducted face-to-face. Although many Mexican businessmen speak perfect English, Spanish is the official language of business in Mexico and learning a few choice words and phrases will go a long way toward ingratiating yourself with your new associates.
Business etiquette in Mexico is marked by a combination of formality and friendliness. It is very rare to hear the word ‘no’ being used in a direct or confrontational way – bald refusals are seen as rude. Use titles (‘señhor’ and ‘señhora’) until specifically instructed not to, but do not shrink away from engaging in personal discussions with your colleagues. Business meetings must be scheduled in advance, and then confirmed a few days before they are due to take place.
The dress code for the Mexican business world is smart and formal. Business hours in Mexico are generally from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, with a two or three hour siesta in the early afternoon.
Communication in Mexico
The international access code for Mexico is +52. There is widespread network coverage in Mexico from Telcel, Movistar, Virgin Mobile and AT&T Mexico. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available.
Tipping in Mexico
Tipping is customary in Mexico for almost all services as employees are not paid sufficient hourly wages and often rely on tips. Waiters and bar staff should be tipped 10 to 15 percent if a service charge hasn’t already been added to the bill. The American custom of tipping 15 to 20 percent is practiced at international resorts, including those in Los Cabos.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to Mexico must hold a Mexico Visitor’s Permit (FMM), which is issued free of charge, and obtainable from airlines, Mexican Consulates, Mexican international airports, and border crossing points. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers transiting through the United States are required to present a passport, or other valid travel document, to enter or re-enter the United States. Foreign passengers to Mexico should ensure that their passports and other travel documents are in good condition – even slightly torn passports will not be accepted. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days but travellers need to complete an immigration form and have this with them when they enter and leave Mexico.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days but travellers need to complete an immigration form and have this with them when they enter and leave Mexico.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days but travellers need to complete an immigration form and have this with them when they enter and leave Mexico.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian US must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days but travellers need to complete an immigration form and have this with them when they enter and leave Mexico.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days but travellers need to complete an immigration form and have this with them when they enter and leave Mexico.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days but travellers need to complete an immigration form and have this with them when they enter and leave Mexico.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mexico. A visa is required. Passengers with a valid visa issued by Canada, Japan, USA, United Kingdom or a Schengen Member State are visa exempt for a maximum stay of 180 days.
Getting around in Cancun, Mexico
Buses are the cheapest way to get around in Cancun. Intercity buses are available from the station on Avenida Tulum, including service to Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Merida, and Campeche.
Taxis are perhaps the most convenient method of getting around, and tariffs are loosely based on a zone system. Fares should be agreed on upfront, and travellers should note that taxis located outside restaurants and hotels often charge higher rates. It is also important to know that only approved airport taxis are allowed to collect passengers from the airport.
Car and scooter rental is another popular way to get around in Cancun, although it is considered dangerous and only experienced drivers should attempt it. Hiring a car can also be stressful, as traffic is chaotic and police are quick to pull tourists over.
Attractions in Cancun, Mexico
Unsurprisingly, the vast majority of Cancun’s activities and attractions revolve around the beach. The area is blessed with many beautiful beaches and the variety of watersports is somewhat overwhelming. Some scuba diving or snorkelling is a must as the underwater world is just as lovely as the white beaches. There are some gorgeous dive sites between Cancun and Isla Mujeres, where coral reefs abound, and exploring the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) is an exciting adventure for divers. Other favourite water activities include swimming with dolphins (or even sharks!), visiting the water park, or taking an excursion to the sleepy paradise island of Isla Mujeres.
If tourists can manage to drag themselves off the stunning white beaches and away from the plethora of fun water activities, Cancun has some cultural and historical diversions as well. The Museo Maya is a brand new and impressively large museum showcasing Mayan artefacts found in the region and providing some fascinating historical context for visitors to the peninsula. The San Miguelito Archaeological Site (in the museum grounds) and the El Rey Ruins are both intriguing examples of ancient Mayan remains in Cancun. The famous ancient site of Chichen Itza, with its impressive pyramids and mysterious jungle setting, is one of Mexico’s greatest attractions and a must for visitors to Cancun.
Chichen Itza
Opening time: Daily 8am to 4.30pm. Light and sound show begins 7pm (autumn and winter) and 8pm (spring and summer).
Admission: MXN 98, including show. Translation headphones are MXN 25 each.
Chichen Itza, with its famous pyramids and temples, is the Yucatan’s most visited ancient Mayan site, set in the jungle and said to have been inhabited for more than 2,000 years. The main attraction at Chichen Itza is the Pyramid of Kukulkan (the plumed serpent god), or El Castillo, a grand pyramid topped by a temple that dominates the site and has been declared one of the 7 New Wonders of the World. Inside the pyramid is a smaller pyramid, the inner sanctum, containing one of the greatest finds on the site, the brilliant red jaguar throne with jade spots, inlaid eyes and real jaguar teeth. Another building of interest is El Caracol, an observatory with slits in the dome aligned with certain astronomical appearances at specific dates.
Getting there: Bus services from Cancun or Playa del Carmen (2.5hrs by bus)
Isla Mujeres
Located just a short ferry ride from the resort, Isla Mujeres is a stunning island with quiet villages and beautiful views that make for a great excursion from Cancun. The calm atmosphere is a relaxing break from the bustle of Cancun’s busy beaches, and Isla Mujeres offers some excellent restaurants serving freshly-caught seafood. Hidalgo Street in El Centro is the main dining, shopping and entertainment area. Popular activities on Isla Mujeres include lounging on the pretty beaches, swimming with dolphins, snorkelling and scuba diving, exploring the remarkable Underwater Sculpture Museum, swimming with sharks, deep-sea fishing and kayaking. The most popular beaches are on the north and west sides of Isla.
Museo Maya
Cancun’s archaeological museum, the Museo Maya, is new, modern and air-conditioned and a visit can be a welcome relief from the heat outside. The museum consists of three large exhibition halls and houses about 350 Mayan artefacts. Artefacts include carvings, pottery, weapons, as well as tools, ritual objects and burial masks. One of the highlights is the 14,000-year-old skeletal remains found in Tulum’s underwater caves, greeting visitors as they arrive. The museum is enclosed by landscaped grounds and nestled within are some fascinating Mayan ruins, including a small pyramid. This site, called the San Miguelito Archaeological Site, is possibly the best part of a trip to the museum.
Cancun Beaches
Cancun is unbeatable when it comes to watersports, sun-lounging and clear blue ocean water, supported by beach bars, restaurants and great tourist facilities. The northern stretch of Mujeres Bay includes the popular Playa Langosta, Playa Las Perlas and Playa Tortugas, all great for watersports, bars and restaurants. Playa Linda is a launching point for boat and dive tours, while Playa Caracol and Punta Cancun are excellent for family fun. East side beaches are breezier with rougher surf. Chac Mool, Playa Marlin, Gaviota Azul and Playa Ballenas are ideal for parasailing and windsurfing, while Punta Nizuc and Playa Delfines are perfect for a day of sand and surf. The best dive sites lie between Cancun and Isla Mujeres, at the colourful reefs of El Tunel, Grampin, Chuchos and Largo. The Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) is also a fantastic option for divers.
Nightlife in Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is celebrated for its rollicking nightlife and there are bars, lounges, live music venues and dance clubs enough to keep even the most determined party animals entertained. The club scene is feisty and energetic and tailored mainly to please the young Americans that flock to the resort, although anybody who is game for foam parties, bikini contests and boat races (the drinking contest, not the watersport) will be well catered for. Familiar chains like Hard Rock Cafe and Senor Frog’s are safe favourites with the international crowd and have been going for many years. Organised party tours like Cuncrawl and Party Hopper are a great way to sample the best of Cancun’s party venues. Most clubs open around 10pm and the music pumps until sunrise or later in peak tourist season.
Those seeking out something more sophisticated, romantic or sedate will find numerous stylish bars and lounges in Cancun. One of the best venues for cocktails is the Thai Lounge. Culture vultures should try their best to see a performance by the internationally-acclaimed Ballet Folklorico, which performs a variety of traditional and performing arts shows at various venues in Cancun.
Shopping in Cancun, Mexico
Shopping opportunities abound in Cancun, with a vast variety of shops ranging from modern malls and designer stores, to open-air markets and the trays of insistent street vendors. It’s a city built on tourism, so Cancun’s shops invariably accept credit cards and the opening hours tend to run from about 10am to 7pm during the week, and all morning on weekends.
Silver jewellery, traditional wooden statues (Alebrije), pottery, and fleece or cotton blankets are all popular souvenirs from Cancun. Visitors should ensure that they don’t buy anything containing black coral, which is an endangered and protected species and could land you in some trouble at the airport.
Within the glitzy Hotel Zone, the Plaza la Fiesta is a popular shopping venue, and the El Zocalo bazaar is a great option for locally-produced arts and crafts. The main shopping strip of Paseo Kukulkan is lined with shops and souvenir stalls selling all the usual tourist trinkets and a few unexpected treasures. The Hotel Zone offers great quality and variety but the shopping experience can be somewhat soulless, in the sense that the stores tend to be international and there is little authentic local flavour on offer.
Mainland Cancun, commonly just called ‘downtown’, is less glamorous but much more affordable. Yaxchilan Avenue is a good place to start, and the market on Tulum Avenue is wonderful for those seeking out local crafts, particularly silverware. Travellers will be expected to bargain in the local markets.
Airports in Cancun
Cancun International (CUN)
Location: Cancun The airport is situated eight miles (13km) from downtown Cancun and 12 miles (20km) from the Hotel zone.
Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 between the first Sunday in April and the second last Sunday in October).
Contacts: Tel: +52 99 8848 7200
Transfer between terminals: A shuttle bus runs between the main entrances of the terminals every 10 minutes.
Getting to the city: Taxis can be used to get to the town. An official taxi company provides services from the airport and can be paid for at the airport. Airport ADO buses leave the airport from all three terminals every 30 to 45 minutes and go to downtown Cancun as well as Playa del Carmen.
Car rental: Major car rental companies are represented at the airport, along with a number of local companies.
Airport Taxis: Official taxis provide services from the airport and can be paid for at the airport just outside the arrivals hall. Taxis go to both Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
Facilities: Cancun airport has all the facilities one would expect at one of the world’s mega-airports. Facilities include ATMs, a bureau de change, restaurants, shops, a pharmacy, medical services and tourist information. There are facilities for disabled passengers but those with special needs are advised to contact their airline in advance.
Parking: Parking is available near to each terminal entrance, starting at MXN 28 per hour, up to a maximum of MXN 165 per day.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
