Quintana Roo Travel Guide

Discover the rich culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures of Quintana Roo in Mexico's Yucatán and South with this comprehensive travel guide. Find out the must-visit museums, historical places, and scenic views, as well as the best food, drink, and souvenirs to take home. Follow our week-long itinerary and learn about local customs and safety tips while exploring this stunning destination.


Introduction to Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo is a state in Mexico located in the Yucatán and South part of the country in North America. The state is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. However, Quintana Roo has much more to offer travelers beyond its world-famous resort areas. Its natural attractions, rich culture, and outdoor adventures make it a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast.

This travel guide will take you on a journey through the best of Quintana Roo, from culturally important museums to scenic hiking trails to the best food and drink the state has to offer. The guide will also cover logistics, safety tips, and the best time to visit, so you can make the most of your experience in this beautiful part of Mexico.

List of Places to Visit in Quintana Roo

Here are some of the must-visit places in Quintana Roo:

  • Cancun
  • Playa del Carmen
  • Tulum
  • Cozumel
  • Holbox Island
  • Isla Mujeres

Each of these places has its own unique charm and attractions, ranging from relaxing beaches to ancient ruins to bustling nightlife. You can plan your itinerary based on your interests and preferred travel style.

We will now explore some of the top attractions in Quintana Roo, starting with the culturally important museums and historical places.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Quintana Roo has a rich history, dating back to ancient Mayan civilizations. Here are some of the most culturally significant places to visit:

  • Chichen Itza: This ancient Mayan city is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the seven wonders of the world. It is home to several stunning structures, including the Pyramid of Kukulcan.
  • Tulum Archaeological Site: This pre-Columbian Mayan walled city is one of the best-preserved examples of Mayan architecture in Mexico. It is located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and offers breathtaking views.
  • Museo Maya de Cancun: This museum offers visitors a chance to learn about Mexico’s rich Mayan history through exhibits of artifacts, art, and traditional clothing.
  • San Gervasio Archaeological Site: This site is a must-see for history buffs, as it was once a sacred place for Mayan women to worship the goddess of fertility, Ixchel.

Visiting these places will give you a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Quintana Roo.

Natural Attractions of Quintana Roo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Quintana Roo is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Mexico. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures and scenic views to explore:

  • Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: This biosphere reserve covers over a million acres of land and sea and is home to a diverse range of plant and wildlife species. Visitors can go hiking, birdwatching, or take a boat ride to explore the reserve.
  • Isla Contoy National Park: This national park is located off the coast of Cancun and offers visitors an opportunity to explore untouched beaches and coral reefs.
  • Cenotes: These natural swimming holes are located throughout Quintana Roo and offer visitors a chance to swim in crystal clear waters surrounded by jungle or cave landscapes.
  • Xcaret Park: This eco-archaeological park showcases Mexico’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, including ancient Mayan rituals, a butterfly pavilion, and an underground river.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Quintana Roo

If you enjoy hiking and biking, Quintana Roo has some stunning trails to explore. Here are some of the best:

  • Cozumel’s East Coast: This 26-mile route is perfect for biking, and it offers panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.
  • Rio Secreto: This underground river system is a unique hiking experience, with crystal-clear waters and incredible cave formations.
  • Tulum Ruins Trail: This scenic trail is a great way to explore the ancient Mayan ruins, and it offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.

Best Things to Do in Quintana Roo: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to choose from in Quintana Roo. Here are some of the best:

  • Swimming with Whale Sharks: This unforgettable experience takes you out into the open sea to swim with these gentle giants.
  • ATV Adventure Tours: These tours take you through the jungle on an ATV to explore hidden cenotes and Mayan ruins.
  • Scuba Diving/Snorkeling: Quintana Roo is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, and scuba diving or snorkeling is an excellent way to explore the underwater world.
  • Choco-Story Cancun: This museum is dedicated to the history and production of chocolate, and it offers visitors a chance to learn about the bean-to-bar process and sample delicious chocolate creations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Quintana Roo

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Quintana Roo:

Day 1: Arrive in Cancun, explore the Hotel Zone

Day 2: Visit the Museo Maya de Cancun in the morning, and spend the afternoon at Xcaret Park

Day 3: Take a day trip to Tulum to explore the ruins and enjoy the beaches

Day 4: Visit Chichen Itza in the morning, and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach in Cancun

Day 5: Explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and enjoy an afternoon at a cenote

Day 6: Take an ATV adventure tour in the morning and go scuba diving or snorkeling in the afternoon

Day 7: Spend the day on Isla Mujeres, relaxing on the beach and exploring the island

Food and Drink Scene of Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo has a diverse food and drink scene, with delicious local specialties and refreshing beverages. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cochinita Pibil: This slow-cooked pork dish is seasoned with achiote paste and served with pickled red onions.
  • Tacos al Pastor: These tacos are made with marinated pork cooked on a spit and served with fresh pineapple and cilantro.
  • Panuchos: These tortillas are stuffed with refried beans, topped with shredded chicken or turkey, pickled red onions, avocado, and tomatoes.
  • Ceviche: This popular seafood dish is made with fresh shrimp, fish, or octopus cooked in lime juice and served with avocado, tomato, and cilantro.

Local Beverages

  • Horchata: This refreshing drink is made with rice, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
  • Margaritas: This classic cocktail is made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec.
  • Agua de Jamaica: This sweet, tangy drink is made from hibiscus flowers and is perfect for a hot day.

Where to Stay in Quintana Roo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Quintana Roo has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style. Here are some of the best:

  • Luxury Resorts: Quintana Roo is known for its luxurious, all-inclusive resorts, such as the Grand Velas Riviera Maya and the Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun.
  • Boutique Hotels: For a more intimate experience, there are plenty of boutique hotels in Quintana Roo, such as the Mahekal Beach Resort in Playa del Carmen or the Nizuc Resort and Spa in Cancun.
  • Hostels: For budget travelers, hostels are a great option. The Casa del Sol in Tulum and the Hostel 3B in Playa del Carmen are popular choices.
  • Guesthouses: If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, there are plenty of guesthouses and bed and breakfasts throughout Quintana Roo. The Casa Munay in Tulum and the Casa Ginevra in Cancun are highly recommended.

What to Buy in Quintana Roo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Quintana Roo is known for its souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Mexican Blankets: These colorful blankets are perfect for staying warm on a chilly night or for use as a picnic blanket.
  • Talavera Pottery: This intricately painted pottery is a beautiful and unique addition to any home.
  • Tequila: Mexico’s national spirit is the perfect gift for any tequila lover.
  • Vanilla: Quintana Roo is known for producing some of the best vanilla in the world. Look for high-quality, pure vanilla extract to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by ancient Mayan traditions as well as modern Mexican culture. Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • Dress Code: Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
  • Tipping: Tipping is customary in Quintana Roo. In restaurants, tip 10-15%, and in hotels, tip 20-25%.
  • Language: The official language of Quintana Roo is Spanish, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The official currency is the Mexican peso.

Best Time to Visit Quintana Roo

The best time to visit Quintana Roo is from December to April, which is the dry season and the peak tourist season. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the summer (May-August), but be prepared for hotter temperatures and a higher chance of rain.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quintana Roo

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Drink bottled or purified water.
  • Wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sunlight.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water.
  • Wear expensive jewelry or display large amounts of cash.
  • Visit areas known for drug trafficking or other illegal activity.

Safety and Health

Quintana Roo is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s still important to take precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy:

Safety in Quintana Roo

  • Stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Use licensed taxis, and avoid sharing with strangers.

Health in Quintana Roo

  • Drink bottled or purified water to avoid getting sick from contaminated water.
  • Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses.
  • Be aware of the intense sun and wear sunscreen and a hat when outdoors.

Getting to Quintana Roo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Quintana Roo is easily accessible by plane, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Quintana Roo

  • Cancun International Airport (CUN): This is the largest airport in Quintana Roo and serves most major international airlines.
  • Cozumel International Airport (CZM): This airport is located on Cozumel Island, just off the coast of Playa del Carmen.

Bus Stations Near Quintana Roo

  • ADO Bus Station in Cancun: This station serves most major cities in Mexico.
  • ADO Bus Station in Playa del Carmen: This station offers connections to other parts of Quintana Roo and the Yucatán Peninsula.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Quintana Roo, especially if you want to visit more rural areas.
  • Ferry: Ferries run frequently between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel.

How to Get Around in Quintana Roo

The best way to get around in Quintana Roo is by car, but there are other options available, including:

  • Taxis: Taxis are available in most areas, but be sure to agree on a fare before getting in.
  • Buses: ADO buses run frequently between cities and offer affordable transportation.
  • Bike Rentals: Many cities have bike rental services for tourists.

Where to Go Next from Quintana Roo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Mexico, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Merida: This charming colonial city is located in the Yucatán and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich culture.
  • Izamal: This small town is home to several ancient Mayan ruins, as well as a colorful, colonial-style city center.
  • Chetumal: This capital city of Quintana Roo is located near the border with Belize and is a great base for exploring the southern part of the state.

Conclusion

Quintana Roo is a diverse and vibrant destination that offers something for every type of traveler. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures, it’s no wonder this state has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore ancient ruins, or sample delicious local cuisine, Quintana Roo is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Easy coastal cruising in Q.Roo Easy coastal cruising in Q.Roo Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve On the beach at Tulum On the beach at Tulum Outdoor restaurant in ‎Cobá Outdoor restaurant in ‎Cobá Typical thatched Maya home near Tulum Typical thatched Maya home near Tulum


    Akumal
    Bacalar
    Cancún
    Costa Maya
    Cozumel
    Holbox
    Mahahual
    Mayan Riviera
    Puerto Aventuras
    Puerto Morelos
    Punta Allen
    Xcalak