There are so many places to see and so many places to go in the Riviera Maya that it is hard to keep track. If you prefer easy to get to and easy to navigate adventures, we have created these travel ebooks for these adventures. If you are looking for a bit more of an adventure that takes you to new places and new villages, this is the article for you.
We have dug deep into our memory banks and adventure lists. We have found five off the beaten track and little known adventures that might be just the ticket for your vacation. You will find little to no other people at these places. A car is essential for these out of the way adventures. Public transport is not an option. If you are not a fan of driving, you can hire a driver for a day and they would be happy to take you to these on these once in a life time adventures. But driving to these unknown places is a breeze, so take a deep breath and go for it.
True Off the Beaten Track Adventures in the Riviera Maya
Cenote Dos Osos (Cenote of the Two Bears) – This is not a typing error. We are not referring to the famous Cenote Dos Ojos (Cenote of the Two Eyes). This cenote is south of Tulum at KM 200 on Hwy 307. This is a local cenote park with kayaks, paddle boards and some fun slides for the kids. You will only find local families at this cenote, there will be few if any tourists. This is a fun cenote that we love to chill at during the week. If you go on a Sunday, yes it will be busy. If you go during the week, you could have it all to yourself. Bring your swim suit, snorkel gear and some lunch. This just could be your midweek slice of heaven.
Laguna Nopalito, RIviera Maya, Mexico
Laguna Nopalito – Just south of Cenote Dos Osos are two entrances to Laguna Nopalita. This lagoon is used by SUP yoga classes, a few locals and that is about it. If you arrive early, you will have this glorious place to yourself. Entrance fees are minimal, 80 pesos, and you can lounge on the dock, swim in the lagoon all day long. Bring your lunch and some water as there are no amenities at the lagoon, nor close by. The entrance we like to use is for the Kaan Luum Lagoon and it is 7 kms south of Tulum.
Sunday Jungle Market Puerto Morelos – Sandra Dayton has created a little oasis in the jungle within Puerto Morelos. Her Ixchel Mayan Spa was the first project she started, and still runs, just a few kilometers west of the Puerto Morelos Pueblo. During high season, Sandy and her community of Mayan women and families run a Sunday Market from 10 am to 2 pm. Enjoy breakfast, participate in local Mayan dances and cruise through their marketplace that has handmade clothing, bags, jewelry and shawls. This is a real treat for a Sunday morning and worth the drive or trek into the jungle.
Tihosuco Caste War Museum – This museum will have you diving into the history of the Caste War that shaped the Riviera Maya and Yucatan. If you love history, are intrigued by Mayan history and love to drive off the main highway, this is the place for you. There are signs off Highway 295 at the village of Tihosuco that point to the museum, but if you blink you may miss it. There are both official signs and hand painted signs. This small museum will take you into the depths of the Caste War, the local arts culture in the village and Mayan medicine. The entrance fee is minimal and well worth it. Combine this trip with a visit to Valladolid. It is a great full day excursion that will enrich your understanding of local culture and history.
If this type of adventure is not your cup of tea, there are more on the beaten path activities in the Riviera Maya for you to enjoy. Our Travel ebooks will get you started on some easier and less adventurous trips that are as engaging and worthwhile.