Touring Destinations
Among the most popular of touring destinations on the Yucatan peninsula is 
the ancient city of Chichen Itza, built between the 5th and 13th centuries. About a three hour drive away from Cancun, the ruin makes an excellent day 
trip, but if you want to experience Chichen Itza to it’s fullest potential, you 
might want to set aside two days. The days of equinox are a particularly 
exciting time to visit the ruin. The city was built to exact astronomical specifications which, on the days of equinox, show a phenomenon of light and shadows on the main structure, Kukulcan, resembling a golden serpent slithering down the front stairs of the building. The ten square-kilometer grounds of
Chichen Itza are easily traveled by foot, but be sure to wear a good pair of walking shoes. Should you choose to spend two days, there are several moderately priced hotels within walking distance of the ruin. The only 
restaurants in the area are at the hotels, but there are snack stands on site.

Among the most well-known archaeological sites is Tulum, a Mayan coastal fort. The site opens at 8:00 a.m. well before most of the tour buses arrive, so a two day stay would allow you to visit the ruin essentially by yourself in the morning hours. There are just a few hotels in the vicinity, but most of them are
inexpensive (about $15 per night) and may provide an excellent opportunity for visiting Tulum if you can handle the rather spartan living conditions. Several hotels which are a bit more modern are also nearby, and should run about $35 per night. For the more adventurous, there are also several campsites nearby. Among the more impressive sights at Tulum are El Castillo, a large pyramid overlooking the ocean, and the Temple of the Frescoes, a building containing ancient wall murals.

If you prefer more modern tour destinations to the archaeological sites, Isla Mujeres makes for a nice day trip. Though it lacks the glitzy nightlife that 
Cancun offers, it is a very relaxed an inviting destination to tourists weary from the hustle and bustle of Cancun. Many small shops and restaurants provide a relaxing shopping and dining experience. Snorkeling tours to the island also make an excellent day excursion. If you enjoy music, the Isla Mujeres Music Festival takes place beginning the second week of October and lasting for two weeks. 
Be sure to make reservations in advance as this is the island’s major event of 
the year.

Boat Trips
Many boat tours are available for tourists in Cancun. Excursions leave daily for fishing, diving and snorkeling, or merely for cruising. The destination of many snorkeling tours is Isla Mujeres. Typically, these tours consist of a buffet breakfast, time for shopping on Isla Mujeres, snorkeling and unlimited drinks. Expect to pay between $40 and $60 per person.

For beginning scuba divers, Cancun provides a fine diving experience, but for 
the experienced diver, Cozumel is second to none. Many private boats may be chartered for diving tours, prices vary widely, depending on time spent and whether or not you rent equipment.

The deep-sea fishing off of the coast of the Yucatan peninsula is considered by many to be among the best in the world. Bluefin, red snapper, mackerel, and grouper are among the many game fish available and 
are plentiful year-round. For a party of up to six, expect to pay around $300 
for four hours or around $500 for eight. The price includes equipment & meals. Keep in mind that reservations must be made one to two days in advance,
& a fishing license must be purchased for all anglers above the age of sixteen. 
It is best to use their equipment as all fishing gear brought into Mexico is 
subject to a customs tax.

If you wish to keep costs low by avoiding expensive tour companies, there are 
a few options. If a self-guided tour of Isla Mujeres is your preference, passage on the local ferries is inexpensive. For modern, air-conditioned ferries, the cost 
is $3.50 per person, but cheaper passage may be booked on the more
antiquated open-air ferries for about $1.75 per person. Passage by ferry to Cozumel will cost about $6 per person.

Fishing
The Deep-sea fishing of Cancun is world renowned. Mackerel, red snapper, barracuda, bluefin, and grouper are among the most popular game fish in the area. Seasonal fishing includes the wonderful and exciting sailfish season which runs from March to mid-July, the wahoo and kingfish season which runs from 
May to September, and the bonito and dorado season which runs from May 
to early July.

Many charter boats are available. You can expect to pay around $300 for a half-day excursion for a party of up to six. A full-day excursion will cost about $500. This price often includes a fish barbecue at the end of the day.

Shore fishing is much cheaper than the charter trips, but that doesn’t mean it 
is unproductive. Rumor has it that fishing in Nichupte Lagoon next to Nichupte bridge can yield good numbers of barracuda and needlefish, and an occasional shark (surprisingly good eating).

Be sure that before you fish, you obtain the proper licensing. All anglers over 
the age of 16 must have a license. You may purchase 3 day, one month, or 
one year passes. If you plan on bringing your own equipment into Mexico, be aware that it is subject to a customs tax. You can always rent equipment if 
you aren’t terribly choosy about your gear.

Watersports
Due to the many extensive beaches of Cancun, there is a wide array of exciting water sports available. Whether you fancy the simple pleasure of swimming or the fast-paced excitement of skimming the waves on a jet ski, Cancun is the place for you.

If snorkeling is your hobby, it would probably be best to pay a little extra for a tour instead of snorkeling off the shore of Cancun. The reefs between Isla Mujeres and Cancun offer the widest array of undersea wildlife, but unfortunately, a boat is the only way to get there. For about $45 per person, one can book a snorkeling tour on an air-conditioned boat with lunch & drinks included, with time for shopping on Isla Mujeres. The entire tour should last
for about four to six hours.

For the serious diver, the local divers suggest the Manchones reef, located 
about 2 to 3 miles south of Isla Mujeres.

Personal sailboats, such as the Hobie Cat, are available for rental at most of 
the local marinas. Usually you can negotiate with the rental company, especially for daily rentals, which should save you some money off of the posted hourly rental price.

If you’re interested in water-skiing, you will likely have to go to marinas instead of your hotel rental shop. Instruction is usually available for beginners, and equipment rental is usually included in the price.

Personal water craft such as jet-skis and wave runners are available for rent 
at the marinas and many of the hotels. If you’ve never ridden one before, the sit-down wave runner would likely be a better choice for rental. Prices vary 
from place to place, but always try to negotiate on price. You can usually get 
a better rate if you threaten to leave and find a better deal elsewhere.

Parasailing is a popular tourist attraction at Cancun. Various companies offer parasailing, but we suggest going with the more established, larger operations 
as they pay closer attention to safety. Accidents can happen, so be sure to check harnesses and straps for wear and tear.

A popular trip with the kids is the day-trip to Xcaret, a man-made water park south of Cancun. Bus tours are available which leave in the morning and cost about $30. This price includes transportation to and from the park and your 
entry fee. Keep in mind, though, that meals and activities within the park will
cost extra.

Shopping

Since no vacation would be complete without that little something you take home to remember your trip by, rest assured that there are plenty of shopping opportunities in Cancun.

If you enjoy large shopping centers, there are several options available to you. Plaza Caracol is one of the largest and most modern malls in Cancun. It is conveniently located in the midst of the hotel zone & houses over 200 stores. Plaza Caracol contains many boutique stores such as Gucci, Christian Dior,
and Fiorucci, & is probably your best bet for high-quality,brand name shopping.

If you prefer the more traditional Mexican crafts but wish to stay in the air-conditioned mall environment, Plaza Mexico might be just the place you’re looking for. This mall specializes in such goods as Maya textiles, stoneware, hand-carved wood sculptures, leather products, and many other uniquely Mexican products. Next door to Plaza Mexico is the Tropical Plaza, a mall
selling a wide array of products from jewelry to designer clothing.

For a more American feel, the Kukulcan Plaza features a bowling alley &movie theaters as well as many shops. Likewise, if the kids get a craving for video games, the Fun Place at Plaza Bonita might be a good stop to make. Plaza 
Bonita is, itself, a beautiful building, built in a hacienda-style architecture 
replete with beautiful hand-painted Mexican tile. It also houses several fine
boutiques and restaurants.

The huge department store Plaza la Fiesta is also a great place for shopping if you’re looking for Mexican crafts. Its jewelry department is top-notch, offering 
a fine selection of gold & silver. For the best selection of Mexican crafts, you can’t beat Ki Huic, Cancun’s largest open-air market. All manner of crafts,
collectibles, and souvenirs may be found here. Other crafts markets of note 
are Plaza Garibaldi & Coral Negro. If you don’t mind the lack of air-conditioning, these markets provide an excellent shopping experience.

Should you book a snorkeling tour to Isla Mujeres, you will likely be given time 
to shop on the island. Though not rich with fancy boutique stores, Isla Mujeres 
is a relaxing place to shop for more traditional Mexican items.

Remember that Cancun and the surrounding vicinity is a duty-free shopping 
zone, so be sure to take advantage! If you are looking for a good place to purchase postcards and other such smaller items, the pharmacies of Cancun 
are very tourist-oriented & provide a good source of everyday items just in 
case you leave any essential items at home.

Services
There are many medical, pharmaceutical, banking, laundry, consular, postal & tourist services in Cancun. If you have any exact questions regarding any of these, it would be best to speak with your hotel or travel agency. Be sure to keep the phone number of your hotel on hand when you go touring, as they 
will be the best source of information regarding services available to you.

BANKS: Banks typically offer the best rate of exchange, hotels offer the worst. Bank hours are from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on weekdays. MEDICAL: In the case 
of a medical emergency, your hotel should be able to provide the name of an English speaking physician. Should you have a serious medical problem, you 
can go to the Total Assist Hospital, located at Claveles #5 and Av.Tulum. This hospital is geared toward tourists and an English speaking doctor is usually on call. The telephone number is 84-1092 or 84-8116. The American consulate 
can provide information regarding available medical care for tourists as well.

CONSULAR:The United States Consular Office telephone number is (98) 84-2411 or 84-6399. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday 
through Friday. The Canadian Consulate is located at Plaza Mexico #312 
second floor and hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Should 
an emergency arise outside of business hours, the Canadian embassy in Mexico
City may be reached at (915) 724-7900. For more information on these or 
other consulates, contact your travel agency or hotel information desk.

PHARMACY: Should you need a prescription filled, most pharmacies are tourist-oriented and have at least one employee who can speak English. Your hotel information desk should be able to provide information regarding which pharmacies deliver.

POST OFFICE: The post office in Cancun is located just west of Av. Tulum on 
Av. Sunyaxchen and Av. Xel-Ha. Hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. The phone number is (98) 84-1418.

TIPPING: In Mexico, it is customary to tip 10 percent in restaurants, and 
you may also give a couple of dollars to any passing band whose playing is particularly pleasing. However, the American custom of tipping 15 to 20 % 
is practiced at international resorts.  Housemaids in hotels may be covered 
by an all-inclusive charge, but welcome US$2-$3 tips per night, and don't 
forget to hand over something small to the little boy who runs to clean your windshield or who fills your car up with gasoline for you. Mexicans always tell 
you that tipping is not expected; it may, however, be well deserved and they always thank you.

Special Events

In February there are a number of festivities to celebrate Carnival,the beginning of Lent. Merida, Cozumel, Campeche, and Isla Mujeres all host parades with 
many colorful floats, sporting events and costume balls. In Chetumal, there is 
a large-scale parade with floats, music and various folk dances from all over 
the region.

The days of equinox, March 21 and September 22, are particularly special days to visit the ancient Mayan capital of Chichen Itza. On these days, the largest structure of the capital, Kukulcan, displays an interesting phenomenon. The 
sun casts a shadow from noon until 5 p.m. which obscures all but a single winding band of light on the outside wall. This gives the appearance of
a snake slithering down the north staircase of the pyramid.

The two week religious festival of El Senor de las Ampollas (September 27-October 14) is celebrated with a big fiesta featuring fireworks, religious services, dancing and music. On December 8, fiestas are held at Izamal, Celestun, and Chompoton.  Chompoton hosts a large boat procession, many aquatic events and a fair.

OTHER TRAVEL INFORMATION:from the Mexico Tourist Department

HEALTH:Health problems sometimes affect visitors to Mexico. Information on health precautions can be obtained from local health departments or private doctors. It is wise to review your health insurance policy before you travel. There are short-term health insurance policies designed specifically to cover travel.

Most hotels offer purified water, but it is always advised to drink bottled water. Be aware of ice cubes (sorry, this includes Margaritas) that may not have been made with purified water Vegetables and fruits should be peeled or washed in 
a purifying solution. A good rule to follow is if you can't peel it or cook it, do 
not eat it. Diarrhea may benefit from antimicrobial treatment which may be 
prescribed or purchased over the counter. Travelers should consult a 
physician, rather than attempt self-medication, if the diarrhea is severe or persists several days.

A Guide to Entry and Exit Regulations

Getting Into Mexico:
U.S. citizens visiting Mexico for no more than 72 hours and remaining within 
25 kilometers of the border do not need a permit to enter. Those wishing to travel past the 25 kilometer border area of Mexico must be properly 
documented. Those transiting Mexico to another country need a transit visa which costs a nominal fee and is valid for up to 30 days.

Tourist Cards:
All U.S. citizens visiting Mexico for tourism or study for up to 180 days need a document, called a tourist card in English or FMT in Spanish, to enter and leave Mexico, The airlines will provide you with one prior to landing. Upon entering Mexico, retain and safeguard the pink copy of your tourist card so you may surrender it to Mexican immigration when you depart. You must leave Mexico before your tourist card expires or you are subject to a fine. A tourist card for less than 180 days may be revalidated in Mexico by the Mexican immigration service (Direccion General de Servicios Migratorios).
 
Traveling With Minors
A child under the age of 18 traveling with only one parent must have written, notarized consent from the other parent to travel, or must carry, if applicable, 
a decree of sole custody for the accompanying parent or a death certificate 
for the other parent. Children traveling alone or in someone else's custody must have notarized consent from both parents to travel, or if applicable, notarized consent from a single parent plus documentation that the parent is the only custodial parent.

Returning to the United States

You must present the pink copy of your tourist card at your point of departure from Mexico.

The U.S. Customs Service currently permits U.S. citizens returning from international travel to bring back $400 worth of merchandise, including 1 liter of alcohol, duty free. The next $1,000 worth of items brought back is subject to a duty of 10%. In addition to U.S. Customs regulations, be aware that some U.S. border states (most notably, Texas) have imposed state restrictions on liquor, wine, and beer imports from Mexico. If you are planning to bring back alcoholic beverages, inquire about these restrictions from the liquor control office of the state through which you plan to return.