If you’re planning your first trip to Cancun, you’re in for an adventure! From snorkeling in clear blue waters to exploring ancient Mayan ruins, there’s so much to do.
But before you go, let me share some Cancun travel tips I’ve learned from my experiences.
Booking Cancun excursions can be easy and fun, but there are a few things you need to know to make the most of your trip.
Let’s get started!
1. Research Popular Excursions and Attractions
Before booking tours, it’s important to know what Cancun has to offer. Some of the top excursions include visiting Chichen Itza, exploring the ancient ruins of Tulum, swimming in the stunning cenotes, or taking a boat trip to Isla Mujeres. These are just a few of the must-see spots!
There are so many types of tours to choose from. If you love water activities, snorkeling or diving in Cancun’s crystal-clear waters cannot be left out.
For those interested in culture, consider a Mexican cultural tour or an archeological visit to the Mayan ruins.
If you’re an adventure seeker, Cancun’s adventure tours offer everything from zip-lining to ATV rides.
Think about your interests and what you want out of your trip.
Cancun has something for everyone looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences.
Here’s a quick list of what to focus on when researching Cancun excursions:
- Top attractions: Chichen Itza, Tulum, Isla Mujeres, and cenotes
- Types of tours: Water activities, cultural tours, adventure experiences, eco-tourism
- Tour length: Half-day, full-day, or multi-day trips
- Reviews: Check Cancun tour guide reviews to find trusted operators
- Tour group size: Small, private, or large groups
- Budget: Compare prices and watch for hidden fees in Cancun tours
- Interests: Water sports, nature tours, history, or local culture
- Family-friendly options: Are tours suitable for kids or groups?
- Seasonal tips: Best time to visit and tour availability during high/low seasons
- Safety: Focus on Cancun excursion safety and travel insurance options
2. Check Reviews and Tour Company Credentials
Before booking any tour, check what other travelers say. Reviews from fellow travelers can give you an honest look at what to expect, from the quality of the experience to how well the guides handle safety.
These reviews will help you avoid common Cancun travel mistakes and ensure you book with a reliable company.
Verify the legitimacy of the tour companies. Check if they’re licensed and follow proper safety standards.
You’ll want to confirm they have experienced guides, especially for more adventurous excursions like snorkeling or adventure tours in Riviera Maya.
Small group tours are an excellent option for a more personalized experience.
Where to Find Reliable Reviews:
- Viator: Look for detailed traveler reviews, star ratings, and photos.
- Google Reviews: Provides real traveler feedback and overall ratings.
- Travel Blogs: Personal stories and recommendations from experienced travelers.
- Social Media (Instagram, Facebook): Real-time posts and comments from people who’ve been on the tours.
- Tour Company Websites: Check testimonials but cross-reference with third-party reviews.
What to Look For in Reviews:
- Tour quality: Was the experience as advertised? Did it meet expectations?
- Safety: Were safety standards met? Are there any issues with equipment or guides?
- Guides: Were the guides knowledgeable, friendly, and experienced?
- Hidden fees: Were there unexpected costs or add-ons?
- Group size: Did it feel too large or more intimate?
- Timing: Were the tours well-organized and on schedule?
3. Be Aware of Hidden Fees and Additional Costs
When booking Cancun excursions, it’s important to understand the difference between all-inclusive tours and a la carte experiences.
- All-inclusive tours usually cover transportation, meals, entry fees, and sometimes even tips.
- A la carte excursions may have a lower upfront cost but could charge extra for different elements as you go.
Be sure to look out for hidden fees that might not be clear when booking. Some extra costs to watch for include:
- Transportation to and from your hotel
- Meals or snacks during the excursion
- Park entry fees or special activity fees (like snorkeling or zip-lining)
- Equipment rentals (e.g., snorkeling gear or ATVs)
- Guide tips (which are often expected but not included)
To avoid surprises, create a realistic budget before your trip. Consider the total cost of your tour plus any additional expenses or activities you may want to try.
4. Timing Is Key: When and How to Book
Timing can make a big difference when booking excursions in Cancun. Pre-booking your tours before you arrive is often a good idea, especially for popular spots like Chichen Itza tours or Tulum day trips.
Pre-booking helps you secure your spot and sometimes get better rates. However, if you’re flexible, booking upon arrival can allow you to find great last-minute deals.
Be mindful of Cancun’s high season, which runs from December to April.
During this time, tours fill up fast, and prices rise. If you’re visiting during the high season, try booking as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
If you’re looking for last-minute deals, you can still find great options by checking trusted booking platforms and asking your hotel or tour operators about promotions.
Check out this great article on how to save money on your Cancun Excursions.
5. Pack the Right Essentials for Your Excursions
Packing the right stuff for your Cancun adventures is the secret to a fun and hassle-free experience.
Here’s a quick guide on what to bring:
- For any excursion: Comfortable clothing, sunblock, hat, sunglasses, and reusable water bottle
- Water activities: Waterproof gear, quick-dry towel, water shoes, and swimsuit
- Adventure tours: Sturdy shoes, insect repellent, and a small backpack
- Eco-tourism: Biodegradable sunscreen, eco-friendly toiletries, and lightweight hiking gear
Pack light but smart, and bring just the essentials to avoid carrying unnecessary weight. Focus on comfort and convenience, especially for adventure or eco-tours.
You’ll want practical, easy-to-carry, and eco-friendly gear to make the most of your trip without feeling weighed down.
6. Know the Local Customs and Etiquette
Understanding local customs will help you blend in and enjoy your excursions more smoothly.
Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Tipping: It’s common to tip guides and drivers. A 10-15% tip is very appreciated for good service.
- Respect for cultural sites: When visiting sacred places like Mayan ruins or cenotes, be mindful of the rules and avoid touching or disturbing the environment.
- Engaging with locals: Approach local communities with respect and kindness. A smile and a simple greeting in Spanish, like “Hola” or “Gracias,” can go a long way in showing appreciation.
Understanding these customs will improve your experience and show respect to the people and places you visit.
7. Stay Safe and Protect Your Belongings
When heading out, safety should always come first. Here are some quick tips:
- Water-based activities: For snorkeling, diving, or boating, always follow the guide’s instructions, wear proper gear, and stay within designated safe zones.
- Travel insurance: It’s wise to get Cancun travel insurance, which covers unexpected issues like accidents or cancellations during excursions.
- Keeping valuables safe: Leave unnecessary valuables at your hotel and bring only essentials. Use waterproof bags or pouches to protect phones, wallets, and cameras from water damage.
- Buddy system: It’s always safer to have a travel buddy when snorkeling or hiking, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
- Hydration and sun protection: Bring plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly. The tropical sun in Cancun can be intense, even during water activities.
- Stay alert in crowded areas: In busy tourist spots, keep an eye on your belongings and use a crossbody bag or money belt to avoid pickpocketing.
- Know emergency numbers: Save local emergency contacts on your phone before heading out on tours, just in case.
- Ask for local advice: Tour guides often have the best safety tips for specific activities. Don’t hesitate to ask them for additional recommendations.
8. Spotting and Avoiding Tourist Scams
As a first-time visitor to Cancun, you must be aware of potential tourist scams, especially when booking excursions.
While most tour operators are trustworthy, a few bad apples can leave you frustrated and out of pocket.
Here are some tips to help you avoid common scams:
- Unbelievably Low Prices: If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of tour operators offering excursions at a fraction of the regular cost. These might have hidden fees, poor service, or not delivering the experience promised.
- Street Vendors: Avoid booking tours from random vendors on the street or on beaches. Stick to well-known tour companies or book directly through your hotel, online platforms, or trusted tour operators.
- Demanding Full Payment Upfront: A legitimate company typically only asks for a deposit or partial payment in advance. Be wary of those that require the total amount before the tour starts.
- Fake Credentials: Look for credentials like permits, safety certifications, or trusted partnerships with other organizations.
- Pushy Sales Tactics: If someone aggressively tries to sell you a tour, especially in busy tourist areas, it’s best to walk away. Reputable operators won’t pressure you into making a quick decision.
‼️ My Close Call with a Cancun Tour Scam ‼️
On one of my earlier trips to Cancun, I was excited to explore this beautiful place.
While walking along the beach, a local vendor approached me with a fantastic deal: a full-day snorkeling and boat tour at a fraction of the price I’d seen online.
It sounded almost too good to be true, but the guy was friendly and looked legit, so I handed over the cash.
The next morning, I showed up at the meeting spot, ready for my adventure, but no one else was there!
After waiting for nearly an hour, I realized I was scammed! The vendor had disappeared, and so did my money.
That experience taught me a valuable lesson: always book tours through trusted platforms or reputable companies. Cancun has many incredible tours to offer, but it’s easy to fall into a trap if you’re not careful.
Since then, I’ve made sure to read reviews, check licenses, and stick with well-known operators before booking tours or excursions.
Get Ready for the Ultimate Cancun Experience
I hope my tips (and a few lessons from my mistakes) help you confidently plan your Cancun excursions!
Being prepared makes all the difference in having an amazing experience. Take time researching, reading reviews, and booking through trustworthy operators.
With the right gear and an idea of what to expect, you’ll be comfortable and ready for whatever adventure comes your way.
Stay mindful of local customs and safety tips to ensure everything goes smoothly. With a bit of planning, you’ll explore this tropical paradise without worry, creating memories you’ll never forget.
So pack your bags! Your incredible Cancun adventure is just around the corner!
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