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Summer is almost here, and if you are looking for an unforgettable vacation that doesn’t break the bank, the Riviera Maya is the place to go!
There are endless reasons to come to this part of the world, but at first glance, the five-star resorts, rows of palm trees, and opulent beach clubs give the impression that it might be for a certain demographic.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that kind of vacation – everybody needs a break and a fancy cocktail once in a while!
However, there’s so much more to Cancun and the Riviera Maya than meets the eye, especially for budget travelers and intrepid explorers.
The beauty of the Riviera Maya is that it caters to every single budget, in every aspect. For example, you could have a budget vacation but then have a couple of nights where you splash out.
Summer is the off-season in Riviera Maya, which means you can find amazing deals on activities, food, and especially accommodation; generally, hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals tend to be a lot cheaper, so your money will go further.
You’ll notice that because it’s off-season, there’ll be fewer tourists in the area as well, so forget queueing for restaurants or activities and dealing with crowded beaches; you’ll be able to enjoy a lot more space to explore and relax.
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Weather-wise, it can get pretty hot and humid in the depths of summer, but it still makes for an excellent time to visit the region’s beautiful beaches and marine life-filled ocean.
You could spend your days swimming, snorkeling, or lounging on the sand, but if there happens to be an abundance of sargassum, you can also explore one of the area’s many beautiful cenotes (sinkholes).
Where Do I Start?
Nobody can plan your trip for you, but the one thing that’s for sure is that you can always find a way to have a budget experience in any area of the Riviera Maya you visit!
Generally, it will tend to be a little more expensive if you are staying or eating by the beach, and the further inland you go, as with most destinations, the less desirable the location will be, and this will be reflected in the prices of things.
As you arrive at the airport, you will probably notice that people will be relentlessly trying to get you in their cab; try and organize transport in advance, and stay vigilant.
Accommodation-wise, you have ample choices to pick from. There are hostels, huts, hotels, lodges, and treehouses; you name it, the Riviera Maya has got it.
You can book your accommodation the day of or a year in advance; it’s truly got your back however you are feeling and however much you want to spend on your trip.
Activities
There are plenty of free things you can do in Riviera Maya, such as strolling around a park, sunbathing on a public beach, or enjoying walking around a museum.
Even certain activities, like swimming in the cenotes and lagoons, or exploring the ancient Mayan ruins, will only cost a small amount.
For example, instead of booking a day tour to Chichen Itza, you can book an ADO bus return instead for less than half the price, and you can book a tour guide once you arrive.
Transport
Speaking of transport, there are plenty of budget options in Riviera Maya. You can take the ADO buses, which are extremely comfortable and affordable and will carry you around the entire region; for a fraction of what you pay for renting a car or taking a taxi.
You also have the collectivo buses, which are cheaper buses that usually drive the locals from Cancun – Playa Del Carmen – Tulum and anywhere in between.
Many of the smaller cities and towns also offer bike rentals with hotel rooms or have rentals externally, but they make for a great budget-friendly travel option.
Food And Drink
You can certainly get a good bang for your buck in Mexico. For one, food isn’t outrageously expensive in the Riviera Maya; most restaurants are on a mid-range kind of budget unless you are in more prominent areas, such as Tulum Beach.
Generally, you’ll be able to source food and drink from extremely affordable cafes, restaurants, and bars, and if not, you have the option to go for street food – typically, most towns and cities will have street vendors selling local delicacies, which will taste just as good as restaurant food, but not cost as much.
Be savvy, stay vigilant, and go explore this beautiful region. Whether you’re being frivolous with your cash or having a budget-friendly trip, you will certainly not be disappointed!
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Ruben
Saturday 13th of May 2023
I would not go to Cancun it is full of criminals assassins kidnappers drug dealers police government criminals corrupted even the taxi cab drivers can it slap your head it's full of seaweed it's very expensive in pictures must have been taken years ago because right now it is dirty just like a toilet before you flush it it's a nightmare I ask everybody not to go to Cancun for their own safety