mexico tours for families

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Mexico Family Tours & Vacation Packages

Let TourRadar take the hassle out of finding a trip for the whole family. With 176 tours of Mexico lasting from one day up to 19 days, you're sure to find a great family-friendly adventure. Looking beyond Mexico? See all family vacations .

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176 mexico family trips with 384 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Mexico - Mexico Southern Adventure

Mexico - from DF to Cancun

• Coach / Bus

Best of Chiapas and Yucatan

I loved this tour; it was a great mix of natural beauty and historical sites. The tour of the indigenous area was fantastic and done with sensitivity. The hotels were very good and in good locations with breakfast provided. On the one day we needed to leave very early, the breakfast stop was very good. The guides were friendly and knowledgeable, and the pick-ups were punctual. There were a number of guides and drivers, however it was well co-ordinated. There is a lot of driving, very windy roads through mountainous areas in Chiapas, however the scenery was fabulous.

Sierra Tarahumara

Excellent organisation. Knowledgable english-speaking guides. Hotels as described. Reliable and on-time pickups. Because the Chepe Express timtable had changed the tour itinerary had to be amended. This was done efficiently and we were offered several options to fit in with out flights.

Mayan Route

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Independence Route

Mexico City Adventure: A Journey Through Culture, Cuisine, and History

"Oaxaca Wonders: A Six-Day Immersion in Oaxacan Culture"

• Sightseeing

Mayan Adventure

Extensive 6 day tour of Mexico and the history of the Mayans very good tour guides the hotels were good too! It was very enjoyable as on older couple it was quite a ‘full on’ tour with early starts and long drives but we still had a great time and it was the best way to get a real feel of the country.

Mexican stroll ( 8 days )

An amazing tour with a very experienced tour guide. Maria made it a perfect experience! I really recommend this tour to everyone who wants a first glimpse of Mexico. Next time we're going for the bigger tour all the way to Cancoun!

Colonial Mexico ( 9 days )

The Mystical Mayan Trail: A Trip Through Mexico's Vibrant Culture and Natural Beauty

Die Route und die Dauer der Tour durch das schöne Chiapas war für uns perfekt. Die Abwechslung von Natur und Kultur war optimal. Die Hotels waren bis auf eine Ausnahme (Palenque) gut, das Frühstück überall sehr gut. Der Comfort des Minibusses war ausbaufähig. Bei größerer Körpergröße gibt es eigentlich nur einen Sitzplatz, der in Frage kommt, der insbesondere auf längeren und kurvigen Strecken ungemütlich ist. Die Tourguides und Fahrer waren allesamt äußerst kompetent und freundlich. Insbesondere Hector und Francisco, die uns über mehrere Tage begleitet haben, haben die Reise zu etwas besonderem gemacht. Auch, weil sie uns bei gesundheitlichen Problemen beratschlagt haben. Am Ende der Reise konnten wir uns in Valladolid (statt Cancun) absetzen lassen, was unsere Weiterreise erleichtert hat.

Colonial Treasures of Mexico

Excellent tour Sergio (Guide) & Felix (Driver) made sure that everything ran smoothly and all the locations and sites were seen and enjoyed. All the hotels were perfect with the exception of the Holiday Inn Express which requires desperate maintenance as the bedrooms were very outdated the showers did not work properly and only one lift was working and that kept breaking down trapping several guests on a number of occasions including guests in our tour. I would suggest changing this hotel to a more suitable one.

Yucatan Peninsula Adventure (including Bacalar)

8 Days Tailor-Made Best Mexico Tour, Daily Start

Our guide Enrique and driver Riccardo we’re both very accomodating and provided great support making our trip stress free. At every stop Enrique checked accomodation, explained breakfast, meals and checked the room. His knowledge of each site and the historical context of significant events was exceptional. We would highly recommend this trip with this guide and driver

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Reviews of Mexico Family Tours

Generally very interesting, quite well organized, hotels decent (by general Latin American standards), and food good. Guides a mixed bag - some barely speak, others are a wealth of info. All kept us safe though, which is most important in this area. One guide unfortunately made an offhand racist comment towards the end of his tour, which unfortunately colored our whole perception of his commentary. I spoke with him about this and he did not apologize, but agreed to rethink his opinion. I've traveled to over 60 countries and unfortunately this is just something you encounter every now and then. In general I recommend the tour.

The tour was interesting, well balanced, so that it was possible to also independently enjoy each and every city we stayed at. The only thing I disliked was the fact that in the offer was included only American breakfast. So it was not possible to chose anything else, although the hotel's offer was much bigger.

Regions in Mexico

• Central Mexico (24)
• Chiapas (19)
• Pacific Coast Mexico (17)
• Copper Canyon (15)
• Yucatan (12)
• Northern Mexico (8)
• Chichen Itza (7)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Family Travel Agencies 2024
• Mexico Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Mexico Vacation Packages 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

• North America Tours
• Mexico Tours
• Mexico Family Tours

Mexico Family Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Family tours in Mexico provide an exciting and enriching travel experience for families of diverse sizes and ages. From ancient ruins to beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, Mexico's abundant offerings make it an ideal destination for families seeking a blend of adventure, education, and relaxation for children and adults alike. Stay in comfortable, family-friendly accommodations or resorts with dedicated kids' clubs and supervised activities. Uncover the mysteries of Mayan civilization at Chichen Itza and explore this ancient archaeological site with expert guides while on a guided Mexico tour with your family. Enjoy a family trip to Tulum and spend long days on the beaches where the kids can splash in warm, shallow waters while the adults go on a deep sea dive! Explore the magnificent Ría Lagartos biosphere reserve and discover over 395 species of birds— the kids will love finding flamingos and crocodiles roaming the mangroves. Enjoy family-centric trips led by experienced and knowledgeable guides who understand the dynamics of traveling with children. Make your best pick from the below-listed Mexico family tours.

• Things to do in Mexico
• Best Time To Visit Mexico

111 family trips in Mexico

• Starts Mexico City, Mexico
• Ends Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Mexico Unplugged

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3473'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle, Taxi & Ferry
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,970
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 197
• Total Price from: US$ 1,773
• Apr 23 Only 5 seats left
• May 18 Only 6 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Ends Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City Stopover

• Activities City sightseeing
• Transport Bus
• Apr 23 10+ seats left
• Apr 24 10+ seats left

Classic Mexico Adventure

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Flight, Bus, Private Vehicle, Boat, Ferry & Taxi
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,299
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 460
• Total Price from: US$ 1,839
• May 25 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 15 Only 3 seats left

• Ends Santa María Huatulco, Mexico

Mexico Real Food Adventure

• Activities Food tours
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle, Taxi & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,295
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 229
• Total Price from: US$ 2,066
• May 04 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 29 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Mayan Ruins Tour: Discover Amazing Rivera Maya Beaches, Cenotes And Ruins (15 Days)

• Trip customizable
• Activities Beach & Explorer Beach , Explorer , City sightseeing , Adventure , Walking tours , Photography tours & Sightseeing Tours 'data-more-tripid='45660'>+5 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Boat & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-69 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish
• Jun 08 10+ seats left
• Jul 13 10+ seats left

Best of Mexico

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Local culture
• Transport Private Vehicle, Bus & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,415
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 441
• Total Price from: US$ 3,974
• May 11 Only 4 seats left
• May 18 Only 4 seats left

• Starts Cancún, Mexico
• Ends Cancún, Mexico

Wonders Of The Maya

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Art and architecture & Active and outdoor
• Transport Boat
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,606
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 241
• Total Price from: US$ 1,365
• May 12 Only 10 seats left
• May 26 Only 10 seats left

• Ends Tulum, Mexico

Yucatan Peninsula Adventure

• Activities Beach & Chill out
• Accommodation Resort & Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,265
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 227
• Total Price from: US$ 2,038
• May 11 Only 3 seats left

Viva Mexico

• Free cancellation
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Beach Cultural, religious and historic sites , Beach , City sightseeing & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='35052'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Bus & Taxi
• Age Range 15-79 yrs

Magical Mexico

• Activities Explorer & Beach
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Apr 27 10+ seats left
• May 04 10+ seats left

Day of the Dead in Mexico City

• Activities Explorer & Day of the Dead Festival Explorer , Day of the Dead Festival & Festivals and events 'data-more-tripid='18706'>+1 more
• Transport Private Vehicle & Boat
• Oct 30 Only 5 seats left

Colonial Mexico

• Activities Explorer
• Transport Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Apr 21 10+ seats left
• May 05 10+ seats left

Mexico City: Day of the Dead Original

• Activities Explorer & Day of the Dead Festival Explorer , Day of the Dead Festival & Festivals and events 'data-more-tripid='10175'>+1 more
• Oct 30 Only 10 seats left

• Ends Oaxaca, Mexico

Premium Mexico City to Oaxaca

• Activities Luxury & Cultural, religious and historic sites Luxury , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='35885'>+1 more
• Jun 15 Only 5 seats left
• Jul 13 Only 9 seats left

Chat with a local travel expert who can help design the perfect Mexico family vacation package.

Mexico Family Vacation Reviews

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Mexico upcoming departures

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Mexico Tours & Trips

Peel back the lucha libre mask and you’ll find a patchwork of cultures and customs mixed into one flavor-filled country.

The gregarious locals are just as likely to pull you up for a dance at one of Mexico City ’s hip-shaking salsa clubs as they are to show you the way to one of the country’s many ancient ruins , all with a casual ‘hola’ and an inviting smile. While our tours get you up close with locals, they also show you the best sights from on and off the gringo trail. You can party until dawn in Playa del Carmen , eat your way into a food coma in colorful Oaxaca , or, best of all, kick back with a horchata in the lazy seaside port of Merida .

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Yucatan Peninsula Adventure

Premium Mexico City to Oaxaca

Mexico Unplugged

Articles of Mexico

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Bueno, Bonito & Barato: What I learned on Intrepid’s Mexico food tour

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9 ways to make meaningful cultural connections through food in 2023

Finding Mexico’s hidden gems on a Tailor-Made tour with Fat Girls Traveling

15 photos that prove Mexico is the most colourful country on earth

The top 7 destinations for travel in February 2024

Mexico at a glance

Capital city.

Mexico City (population 8.7 million)

129.9 million

(GMT-06:00) Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey - New

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Mexico

Best time to visit mexico.

Mexico is generally most pleasant between September and June in the cool, dry season. July and August can be very hot and humid, but perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and lazing on the beach. These are, however, the busiest months for travel as this is the time of the North American school holidays. Highland areas such as Chiapas and Oaxaca tend to be cooler year-round, with cold nights.

Read more about the best time to visit Mexico

Culture and customs

Mexico lays claim to one of the richest and most historic cultures in the world. Characterized by strong regional identity, locals are affiliated directly to the region they hail from with each region having its own unique customs, cuisine and even language dialect. Despite this, national identity is still strong with all Mexicans sharing common bonds over their love of sport, dance, food and religion. With most of the country belonging to the Roman Catholic religion, religious festivals and celebrations are plentiful in Mexico. Parades, street fairs and parties held in honor of local saints are commonplace, and offer travelers the chance to witness the customs and rituals of this vibrant culture.

Eating and drinking

One of Mexico's biggest draws is its food and drink. From Oaxaca's indigenous staples to the sizzling street food of Mexico City, there's almost too much choice for the hungry traveler. By the end of your Mexico tour, you'll know your tacos from your tamales, your enchiladas from your elote and your tequila from your mezcal.

Eat your way through this vibrant country on our  9 day Mexico Real Food Adventure.

Read what to eat in Mexico

Read what to drink in Mexico

Geography and environment

Mexico shares land borders with the  United States ,  Belize  and  Guatemala , and has an extensive coastline that runs along the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

Featuring a wide variety of natural environments, Mexico is home to tracts of tropical rainforests, vast areas of low-lying plains and deserts, volcanic mountains and temperate beaches and lagoons.

Mexico's capital and major cities are typically built up, busy and lively – with a vast network of public transport, highways and roads. Rural areas, on the other hand, are distinctly less developed, with small-scale housing, unsealed roads and rustic farms.

History and government

Early history.

People have been living in Mexico for more than 13,000 years. Mesoamericans occupied the area early on, with archaeological evidence pointing towards Mesoamericans leading a hunter-gatherer existence. Maize farming is thought to have become commonplace by 1500 BC, which led to the farming of other commodities as well. A variety of cultures contributed to the early history of Mexico, with the Olmec, Toltec, Maya, Teotihuacan and Aztecs all bringing unique cultural, religious and artistic styles to the region, with the Mayan and Aztec Empires having the greatest (and most enduring) impact on the region. 

Mayan society can be traced back to 300 BC, while the Aztecs enjoyed prosperity from 1325 to around 1521 AD. Many ancient ruins and constructions from these periods are still standing all throughout Mexico and can be visited and viewed today. By the 16th century, the Spanish had arrived in Mexico and what followed was a period of colonialism that lasted nearly 300 years. 

During this time, Mexico was seen as a part of ‘New Spain’ along with Cuba and Puerto Rico. This was not a particularly good time for Mexicans who (under colonial law) were generally not allowed to travel outside of Mexico and were denied access to education. Mexico achieved independence from the Spaniards after the War of Independence (1810-1821) but peace was short-lived as two decades later the Mexican-American War brought more confrontation and armed conflict to parts of Mexico.

Recent history

Mexico’s Revolution of 1910 - 1921 was a period of instability, marked by political turmoil and bloodshed. More recently, Mexico has enjoyed an economic resurgence after decades of economic hardship, which lasted from the 1970s to the mid-1990s. The earthquake of 1985 didn’t help matters, with wide-scale damage and loss of life compounding the economic problems and political uncertainty of Mexico. Currently, Mexico is benefiting from a period of improved economic conditions, although the gap between the wages earned by Mexicans and their northern neighbors continues to widen. Mexico is now operating in a free market economy and the growth of tourism, agriculture and industry has ensured an improved economy for the country, although financial inequality still exists within.

Memorable moments of Mexico

1. ramble among the ruins.

A visit to the famed ruins of Chichen Itza reveals history, ancient architecture, and wildlife in equal measure. Walk through the complex and hear jungle animal calls as colorful birds fly among the canopy. This is a stirring experience to treasure.

2. Bittersweet bites

The cult of chocolate is well and truly alive in Oaxaca! The flavors here are simply phenomenal and unlike mass-produced chocolate in the Western world. Spiced with chili, cinnamon and cloves, you won’t soon forget the taste of Oaxacan chocolate.

3. Sunshine and snorkeling

Mexico’s Caribbean coastline showcases expanses of clear blue water, white sand beaches, vibrant reefs and plenty of sunshine. Snorkeling over colorful fish and sun-lit coral is simply unforgettable.

4. Mountain majesty

The cooler climate and fresh mountain air of San Cristobal de las Casas provides some respite from the city heat. Chilling out in this relaxed and visually stunning area is a magical Mexican moment.

5. Bus buddies

Catching a local bus in Mexico is a never-ending source of amusement. Overcome the language barrier and make friends with local commuters to pass the time.

6. Tequila!

No visit to Mexico is complete without downing a little bit of the national drink. While you may not remember every detail the morning after, good times and memorable holiday snapshots are guaranteed when tequila is involved.

7. Volcanic splendor

Mexico’s volcanic landscapes are photo-worthy and awe-inspiring. Hiking past rocky escarpments and surreal scenery is a rewarding travel experience to remember.

8. Village people

Sharing smiles and laughs with locals while strolling through the rural villages of Mexico is a simple, yet memorable way to see the real heart of Mexico - its people.

9. Mariachi melodies

Sway to the unique sounds of Mexico’s mariachi music in the streets and cafes of Mexico. The rhythms and beats will live in your heart for years to come.

10. To market, to market

Witness Latin America’s time-honored commercial traditions unfold in Mexico’s well-patronized markets. Hear the banter of stallholders, smell the fragrant scent of sizzling meat and admire the colorful array of wares on offer.

Top places to visit in Mexico

This coastal town is well-known for its incredible cliff-top Mayan temple ruins with expansive ocean views. But outside of architectural wonders, Tulum also has quite a few natural wonders. Spend some time exploring Tulum's numerous cenotes and caves for unforgettable snorkeling and diving.

Explore Tulum on our 8 day Yucatan Peninsula Adventure or on our 8 day Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights tour.

Numerous significant architectural sites, baroque churches and impressive cultural displays may have landed Oaxaca the badge of Unesco World Heritage Site, but in recent years, the city has gained notoriety as a culinary destination. Make sure to try regional specialties like tlayudas, mole and mezcal.

Get a taste of Oaxaca on our 9 day Mexico Real Food Adventure.

3. San Cristobal

Set in a valley surrounded by pine forests, San Cristóbal de las Casas has a bright yellow cathedral, pastel houses and buildings draped in deep pink bougainvillea, making it one of Mexico's most colorful cities. Stop by the local markets to browse locally-made handicrafts with colors that rival those of the city itself.

Explore this colorful city on our 15 day Best of Mexico tour.

Travelers will be delighted with the range of good quality shopping available in Mexico. As usual, the markets offer some of the most cost-effective and fun ways to shop, although Mexico’s cities also showcase some excellent boutiques and galleries for more costly purchases. 

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. The United States and Canada generally have strict customs laws.

Things to buy in Mexico

1. Tiles, ceramics and earthenware

Mexico has a longstanding tradition of creating good-quality pottery. Hit the artisan markets for colorful pots, vases and jugs. Don’t forget to pack carefully.

2. Bright textiles

Woven textiles can be found almost everywhere in Mexico. Hand-woven rugs, blankets, scarves, and ponchos are great reminders of your time in Mexico.

The silver in Mexico is among the world's best. Rings, necklaces and bracelets featuring bold Aztec designs are popular choices.

4. Lucha Libre masks

This Mexican wrestling phenomenon is growing in popularity worldwide, so grab a colorful wrestling mask - it’s a great souvenir for kids (and big kids) at home.

Festivals and events in Mexico

Mexico is the land of the fiesta and the locals will find any reason to party. Whether they're celebrating independence, the saints or the dead, you can expect vibrant colors, lively music and a whole lot of dancing. One to keep an eye out for is the Autumn Equinox, when crowds gather at Chichen Itza to witness the sunlight and shadows play tricks on this ancient relic. During the autumn (and spring) equinox, the sun moves across Chichen Itza, illuminating parts of the temple to reveal the moving body of a snake. Not seen on any other days, this natural spectacle draws thousands of pilgrims.

Read more about festivals in Mexico

Further reading

Mexico travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Mexico?

Mexico is a country of varied landscapes and altitudes and the best time to visit depends on a variety of factors, the first of which is where you actually want to go.

Is it safe to visit Mexico?

Mexico has long been a popular tourist destination and most travelers do not run into any trouble. There are, however, areas that experience high levels of violent crime as a result of lawlessness and drug trafficking. That said, you can rest assured that Intrepid would not take you anywhere unless we were convinced it was safe.

Do I need a visa to travel to Mexico?

All tourists traveling to Mexico need a tourist permit, but not all need a visa. Citizens of the US, EU, Canada, the UK, Australia and New Zealand are among those who do not need a visa and can obtain a tourist permit on arrival.

Is tipping customary in Mexico?

Tipping is expected in most parts of Mexico. The service workers typically earn a low wage and rely on tips to earn a decent living. We recommend leaving 10–15 percent at restaurants (if the service charge is not already included), 5–10 percent of your room cost for housekeepers, and a few dollars for porters, bartenders and guides.

What is the internet access like in Mexico?

Internet access is good in Mexico with wi-fi available in most accommodations, bigger restaurants, airports and in some public spaces. It’s also easy and affordable to buy a local SIM card for the duration of your Mexico tour.

Can I use my cell phone in Mexico?

If you wish to use your cell phone while in Mexico be sure to activate global roaming before leaving your home country. You should also check with your provider regarding any charges you may incur when overseas.

If you wish to purchase a local SIM card in Mexico, your phone must first be unlocked. For more information on local SIM cards, please read about   internet access in Mexico .

What are the toilets like in Mexico?

It's likely that you will encounter different types of toilets while traveling in Mexico. Western-style flushable toilets are commonly found in high-end resorts, hotels and restaurants, while squat toilets are common in rural areas and homes. Be prepared by carrying your own supply of toilet paper and soap, as these aren't always provided.

What will it cost for a...?

Mexico’s unit of currency is the peso:

• Cheap local meal = MXN 150.00
• Domestic beer at a restaurant = MXN 50
• One-way metro ticket in Mexico City = MXN 6.00
• Mid-range meal = MXN 400.00

Can I drink the water in Mexico?

We do not recommend drinking the water in Mexico.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available, often boiled to use for tea or coffee.

It’s also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Mexico?

Credit cards are generally accepted in Mexico at large stores and most mid- high-range hotels. Some cafes, bars and restaurants may accept card too, but the places with real character – and the best local food – tend to be cash only.

What is ATM access like in Mexico?

ATMs are available across towns and cities in Mexico. Travelers should not encounter trouble finding an ATM but be wary of international transaction fees. For your own safety, try to use ATMs in daylight hours.

What is the weather like in Mexico?

Mexico is renowned for its sunshine and sandy beaches, but the weather can vary depending on the region you’re traveling to and the time of year.

What public holidays are celebrated in Mexico?

• 1 Jan: New Year’s Day
• 5 Feb: Constitution Day
• 21 Mar: Day off for Benito Juarez’s Birthday Memorial (variable)
• April: Maundy Thursday/Good Friday (variable)
• 1 May: Labor Day
• 16 Sep: Independence Day
• Nov: Revolution Day Memorial (held 3rd Monday of the month)
• 12 Dec: Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Please note:  Mexico public holidays may vary.

Is Mexico safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Mexico is becoming increasingly more accepting of same-sex relationships and has laws in place to protect those that identify differently, but it remains a country of strong Catholicism that has historically been hostile towards the local LGBTQIA+ community.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Mexico accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Tourist destinations in Mexico including Mexico City and the resort areas on the Yucatan Peninsula are seeing an increasing number of hotels, restaurants and tourist sights fitted out to accommodate travelers with limitations. That said, it can still be difficult for those with mobility issues and visual and hearing issues, particularly on public transport. We recommend using taxis to move around locally and flying between cities if possible unless, of course, you are on an Intrepid Mexico tour.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What should I wear in Mexico?

What you pack for your Mexico tour will depend on where you are traveling to. Mexico City, for example, will be much cooler than the coastal areas of Playa del Carmen or Tulum, thanks to its high altitude. In the winter, it can drop down towards freezing at night while reaching 73°F during the day, so it’s important to be prepared for both ends of the spectrum.

What's the accommodation like in Mexico?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Mexico you may find yourself staying in a basic hotel.

Intrepid prefers smaller character-filled hotels and guesthouses than hotel chains. When on vacation in Mexico, enjoy staying in small hotels owned and run by friendly locals.

Does my trip to Mexico support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Mexico directly support our foundation partner, Gastromotiva Mexico.

Gastromotiva Mexico

Gastromotiva Mexico is tackling food scarcity and homelessness while promoting a sustainable food movement. Donations help them provide nutritious, balanced meals to community shelters for vulnerable people such as women affected by domestic violence and refugees.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

• Last Updated On
• November 17, 2023

The 19 Best Family-Friendly Retreats in Mexico for 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Searching for the perfect Mexican retreat for your family’s 2023 adventure?

In this guide, we explore my top picks for family-friendly retreats in Mexico, from the vibrant Fiesta Americana Condesa in Cancun to the serene Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa, including luxurious and budget-friendly options.

With 15 years of experience living in Cancun and exploring various Mexican destinations, I’ve assisted numerous families in finding their ideal vacation spots.

My personal visits and in-depth reviews of these resorts ensure you get honest, family-centered advice for your next memorable getaway.

Best All Inclusive Family Resorts in Mexico Compared

Nothing’s better than having everything you need in one place. 

Here’s a quick guide to the top all-inclusive family resorts in Mexico.

Editor’s Choice

Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun

This best rated resort, Fiesta Americana Condesa, encapsulates everything that Cancun is all about.

• Kid-friendly Activities: 5/5
• Family Accommodations: 5/5
• Dining Options: 5/5
• Safety and Security: 4.5/5
• Value for Money: 3/5
• Location and Accessibility: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Sandos Caracol Eco Experience Resort

Of all the resorts to choose from in Mexico, this one is the best for kids.

• Family Accommodations: 4/5 
• Safety and Security: 4/5
• Value for Money: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta 

The world-famous Hard Rock Hotel in Vallarta is a unique Mexico all inclusive family resort that’s best for families with older kids and teenagers.

• Kid-friendly Activities: 3/5
• Family Accommodations:  4/5
• Safety and Security: 5/5
• Location and Accessibility: 5/5

Here are the top all inclusive resorts in Mexico for families.

1. Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun (Editor’s Choice)

Blvd. Kukulcan km 16.5, Zona Hotelera Cancún, Q.R., MX 77500 +52 (998) 881-4200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• World-class dining 

Once you’ve decided that a Mexican family vacation is the way you want to spend your time off, why not stay at the best overall?

All inclusive trips to Mexico save you the hassle of planning every little detail, and they guarantee there will be something there for everyone to enjoy. 

This best rated resort, Fiesta Americana Condesa , encapsulates everything that Cancun is all about.

The style and overall design is just incredible, but it’s the heart of that place that really makes it stand out.

From the kids clubs, to amazing swimming pools, and world-class dining, it’s all executed perfectly at Fiesta Americana.

Everything feels very welcoming and low-pressure here, you can just relax and soak up the sun, or get active, or pamper yourself in the spa, or try some new activities you’ve never done before.

Either way, the whole family will return home relaxed, entertained, and feeling like the best versions of themselves.

2. Sandos Caracol Eco Experience Resort

Cancun – Chetumal km 295 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., MX 77710 +52 (984) 873-4444 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Splash pool with slides
• Adults only area
• Hard to make reservations

From the splash pool, to extravagant shows each night, fully-packed days of activities to keep the kids busy, and an amazing nature experience, this is a truly special place for the whole family, but especially for the kids.

Even though this resort is so great for kids, there’s also an adults-only area for when you want to spend some time with people your own age.

Take advantage of the babysitting service, and sneak away for a mini-vacation within your vacation.

3. Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta 

Paseo de los Cocoteros 19, Villa 8 Nuevo Vallarta, Nay., MX 63732 +52 (322) 226-8470 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Convenient location
• Live shows and entertainment 
• No activities for younger children

If you don’t want to play any of the instruments or the collection of legendary guitars here, you can leave that to the professionals and check out some live music and other live shows and entertainment.

The views here are incredible, and some of the lounges feel like you’re in a rock and roll fantasy world (because you are.) Hard Rock masterfully blends their musical theme with the surrounding area, so you still very much feel like you’re in Vallarta.

Related: Best All Inclusive Resorts for First Timers

4. Generations Riviera Maya 

Carr. Tulum – Cancún Km. 45 Cancun, Q.R., MX 77710 +52 (998) 872-8030 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you prefer an all-inclusive resort that is baby-friendly, stay at the Generations Riviera Maya . 

It’s an excellent alternative to Sandos Caracol Eco Experience Resort and Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta.

Not every family-friendly hotel or resort takes the same steps to be comfortable for the youngest members of the family, but this baby-friendly resort is perfect if you have a younger one in your party.

There are suites with up to 3 bedrooms each for large families, which is great for large groups. 

Amenities for babies include cribs, strollers, baby monitors, bottle sterilizers, changing tables, and even adorable little baby bath robes.

The Little Eko Chefs program lets kids aged 4-12 learn to cook meals, each day, for the rest of the family – yum!

There’s a social club for teens, play areas for kids, movies, board games, and lots of opportunities to make new friends.

If you want to spend some time around other adults, you can take advantage of the babysitting service, too. 

5. Grand Velas Riviera Maya 

Riviera Maya, Carretera Cancun Tulum Km 62 Riviera Maya, Q.R., MX 77710 (877) 418-2963 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Waterpark resorts in Mexico with pools and splash pads are great but nothing compares to staying at a resort with instant access to the best beaches in Mexico .

Grand Velas puts you right next to world-class beaches with the softest, cleanest, sand and crystal-clear gorgeous waters as far as the eyes can see.

It’s literally paradise here.

Your resort is your connection to the beach, and Grand Velas couldn’t do a better job. 

The rooms are luxurious, the spas are otherworldly, and the amenities are too plentiful to list but just know there’s something for everyone here.

For beach-lovers in search of an upscale getaway, the choice is as clear as the water. 

Also See: Cancun All Inclusive Family Resorts Playa del Carmen All Inclusive Resorts for Families

6. AZUL Beach Resort 

Carretera Federal Cancún Supermanzana 12 Manzana 34 Km 27.5 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., MX 77580 +52 (844) 544-2985 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There’s something that you won’t always find at resorts that cater to families with kids, and that’s luxury.

Just because you have kids, that doesn’t mean you want your whole vacation to feel like Disneyland where it’s entirely catered to them. 

Azul offers a perfect balance of activities for toddlers and kids like a playhouse (with pinatas!), dance lessons, a My Gym, and lots more.

All of the essentials for toddlers are here, so you don’t need to bring everything, and there’s no shortage of stuff for the rest of the family to enjoy…

Parents will appreciate the culinary excellence, the spas and other wellness activities like fitness, and the full slate of fun activities to plan your day around.

Related: Best Things to Do in Mexico

7. Beach Palace Cancun 

Km 11.5, Blvd. Kukulcan, El Rey, Zona Hotelera Cancún, Q.R., MX 77500 (800) 943-5032 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It’s well-known that Cancun is one of the best Mexican destinations for families, and staying at a great A.I. resort makes it all that much better.

Everyday, there’s a host of fun family activities, and entertaining nighttime shows.

Stick to a schedule, or choose your own adventure, there’s no shortage of things to do here, no matter what your family is in the mood for at any given moment. 

From days spent on the beach and being catered to by the pools, to swimming with dolphins, to exploring ruins, to exploring things just outside of the resort, everything feels possible and accessible. 

Take a little time out to visit the fitness rooms so you can indulge to your heart’s content during the rest of the day without any post-vacation regrets, and to ensure you’ve got plenty of energy to fully enjoy your time here too, of course. 

8. Moon Palace – Cancun 

Cancun – Chetumal Km 340 Cancún, Q.R., MX 77500 (800) 943-5032 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Moon Palace Cancun is a group of the newest all inclusive resorts in Mexico.

Most resorts are very well maintained and updated every now and then, but you can still feel it when you’re at a newer property. 

The events and shows will introduce you to local sounds and culture, but they have more familiar options too like shows themed after American pop stars.

There are a lot of themed events at the nightclub like a neon party, with no shortage of things for the whole family to do, too.

Everyone can enjoy hopping on the wave simulator to try their balance at surfing, playing a little golf on the links, or going digital and spending the evening in the Wired Lounge which is a high-tech arcade with tons of games. 

Also See: Riviera Maya All Inclusive Resorts for Families All Inclusive Cabo San Lucas Resorts f or Families

9. The Royal Haciendas 

Km. 289+10, Carr. Cancún Playa del Carmen, Q.R., MX 77710 (954) 368-1173 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Royal Haciendas has a lot to offer a family looking to spend time together on vacation, including activities like arts and crafts, sports on land and in the water, and a collection of games.

It’s easy to stay fully entertained without leaving the resort. 

There’s on-site shopping for any last-minute gifts or things you forgot to bring from home.

The recreational amenities include yoga, aerobics, travel board games, plus a club for the kids to enjoy when the parents need a little time to themselves. 

The diving center gives you access to a whole new world under the sea, including scuba lessons for first-time divers, and equipment rentals.

How many people can say they’ve swam up to the world’s second largest reef?

10. Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa

Carretera Chetumal-Puerto Juarez Km. 236.7 Tulum Quintana Roo, Q.R., MX 77760 +52 (984) 871-3333 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Tulum is one of the most historically fascinating places you can visit in Mexico, there’s a lot to see and a lot to learn.

It’s a common destination to visit, but staying near this town saves you travel time.

The restaurants and dining areas range from extravagant and gourmet, to casual and familiar, whatever you’re in the mood for.

Some of the more unique activities here include learning how to make your own homemade skincare and spa products using local Mexican flora and oils, and even taking them home with you.

There’s a number of organized activities in the water, too, like snorkeling and scuba, kayaking, and more.

Or just float around in the pool at your own pace.

Make sure you save some time to visit the nearby ruins.

Tulum is one of the best destinations for families who want to explore ancient history and see it first hand. 

Related: Best Restaurants in Tulum

Also See: All Inclusive Family Resorts: San Jose del Cabo

11. Seadust Cancun Family Resort 

Blvd. Kukulcan Km 17, Zona Hotelera Cancún, Q.R., MX 77500 +52 (998) 287-1400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

In Seadust Cancun Family Resort , you can choose between the luxury suite or the family suite (which has a couple of bunkbeds for the kids), both with very competitive rates.

You can get a room overlooking the beach, walk out onto the patio with your morning coffee, and think about how you feel like spending the day.

See a show?

All of the above?

You’ll find food from all around the world, including local favorites.

There’s a rooftop lounge with a pool and hot tub, and this resort has water slides for the kids.

And those are enough reason for me to say Seadust is one of my best Cancun all inclusive family resorts with water parks .

If a walk down the beach is more your flavor, there’s some nice scenery. 

12. Club Med Cancun Yucatan 

Nizuc, Carretera, Zona Hotelera Cancún, Q.R., MX 77500 +52 (998) 881-8200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The recently-redesigned Club Med Yucatan is a must-mention when it comes to all inclusive holidays to Mexico, there’s a reason this brand is synonymous with all-inclusive getaways.

They do an amazing job of combining their own aesthetic with local style and culture, creating a unique experience that feels new but familiar at the same time. 

There are three distinct white sand beaches to explore and enjoy, it’s all in very close proximity to ancient Mayan ruins, and this resort has a large staff of people who want to ensure your vacation is perfect.

The pools have been re-done along with lounges, and everything feels modern and new, but still rustic and authentic.

Also See: Cozumel All Inclusive Hotels for Families Family Friendly All Inclusive Resorts in Puerto Vallarta

13. Le Reve Boutique Beachfront Hotel 

Xcalacoco Fracción 2A Playa del Carmen, Q.R., MX 77710 +52 (984) 317-6083 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Imagine finding a  luxurious 5 star hotel, and feeling like it’s there just for you.

This is the vibe you’ll get at Le Reve, which is called a boutique hotel because this resort only has 28 rooms.

It’s small, comfortable, and just feels more bespoke than some of the mega-resorts.

Everything is on a slightly smaller scale, except the comfort and relaxation.

The staff aren’t having to deal with a thousand different things at once, so it really feels like you’re the star of the show here.

Despite being on the smaller side, they still have babysitting and childcare services, and a gorgeous outdoor pool which you’ll have all to yourself occasionally.

14. Grand Riviera Princess All Suites Resort & Spa

Quinta Avenida Mza 20-Lote 006 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., MX 77710 +52 (984) 877-3500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Grand Riviera Princess offers you so much for such a low price, making it our best budget-friendly property to stay at when you’re visiting Mexico.

The prices are lower, but the beach is every bit as gorgeous as anywhere else in Mexico, the food is just as tasty, the rooms are just as comfortable, and the sun is just as hot.

The itinerary includes water sports, all sorts of other sports and games including tennis, theater, crafts for kids to make and keep, and a Family Club area where everyone can spend time together.

When you factor in overall value, this is right up there among the best family friendly all inclusive resorts in Mexico.

15. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos 

Bahia de Petempich SM 12 MZ 31 Lote 14-02 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., MX 77580 +52 (624) 163-7730 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Hyatt Ziva property in Cabos is a massive, all-inclusive resort that welcomes the whole family.

The beach is right out front, and it’s even nicer in person than you’d guess from the pictures.

There are massive pools with plenty of poolside fun to be had, sports and fitness to get a sweat going, live entertainment, and new things to do everyday.

They can even accommodate special food requests which is especially helpful if your children have allergies .

Kids can spend time in the KidZ Club where they can meet new friends from all around the world while playing indoors and outside under skilled supervision.

There’s also a mini water park for kids at the KidZ Club, and some equally fun social clubs for adults.

16. Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort 

Playa Mujeres, Zona Continental Lote Rth-7 Quintana Roo, Q.R., MX 77400 +52 (998) 234-0300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Dreams Resort features tons of green space, a lovely walking path surrounded by a huge, uniquely shaped pool with plenty of areas for lounging around, people watching, and taking in the sights.

The accommodations themselves are cozy, not overly luxurious, but you won’t be spending most of your time in the room anyway, with so much to see and do nearby.

There’s an on-site waterpark for everyone in the family to enjoy, with stuff for smaller kids, and giant, fast water slides for older kids.

This is a great place to try something new, from archery, beach football, fishing tours, fitness classes, and even Spanish lessons.

Related: Best Restaurants in Mexico

17. Grand Velas Resort, Los Cabos 

México 1 Km 17, Tourist Corridor Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., MX 23405 +52 (322) 226-8917 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Have you ever had a picture-perfect picnic?

Woken up, hopped on a boat and had brunch at sea after staying up late stargazing and talking about life with the people you love the most?

Grand Velas in Los Cabos offers many unique experiences in addition to those. 

They have one of the best new restaurants on-site with many dining options throughout the resort, weekly events and new things happening all the time, with social clubs for kids, teens, and even adults.

Additional amenities include baby services, 24-hour room service, fitness centers, car rentals, and a huge variety of recreational activities to pass the day.

Related: Do You Need a Passport to Go to Mexico?

18. Occidental Resort at Xcaret, Playa del Carmen 

Camino a Xcaret Carretera Federal Chetumal Playa del Carmen, Q.R., MX 77710 +52 (984) 871-5400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With two buffets and a handful of a la carte restaurants and snack bars (including 24 hour food options), you won’t catch yourself feeling hungry here.

There’s a gorgeous wooden deck with hammocks and trees to relax with the family, a bright and cheerful play room for kids, golf (including 18 hole mini golf so the whole family can play) and billiards, and a spectacular pool area.

If self care is on your to-do list, you’ll love the massage cabins, spas, and fitness areas.

Make sure you check their calendar for scheduled events including a Hamburger Festival, Mixology and Sushi, and a number of yearly celebrations.

Related: Best Hotels in Mexico

19. Marival Distinct Luxury Residences

Av, Paseo de los Cocoteros Lt 53, Villa 8 Nuevo Vallarta, Nay., MX 63732 (888) 270-4980 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Marival Distinct Luxury Residences offers villas with multiple bedrooms that are perfect for families travelling together.

Even though it rounds out the end of this list, this is still one of the top all inclusive resorts in Mexico.

The cuisine is out of this world with picture-perfect gourmet plates, or more casual options if you’re feeling a bit homesick.

The Demi Pool is right outside your door so you can hop in for a dip anytime you’d like, or choose a room with a view of the inspiring gardens.

Marival Distinct is a place that you can make your own.

Vacationer’s Guide 

Comparing resorts: which one is right for you.

Considering a few factors, looking for the right resort is a piece of cake.

Ask what your family wants to do and examine their preferences.

Your budget is also a significant factor you should assess.

Ultimately, look at each resort’s benefits.

Then, choose the one that fits your family’s needs the most.

Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun has a kids club that your children will enjoy while in a safe environment.

Unfortunately, the rates at the resort are high.

Sandos Caracol Eco Experience Resort has a splash pool with slides for kids.

And mom and dad can enjoy the adults-only area.

Since it caters to all ages, you might have difficulty booking a room.

Meanwhile, Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta is perfect for older kids and teens.

It’s designed for music lovers.

Since it will be loud due to the live shows daily, younger children might not enjoy the resort.

Generations Riviera Maya is an excellent alternative to these since it’s baby-friendly.

The only downside to the resort is that room service is a bit slow. 

How I Picked The Resorts 

I am a travel writer exploring Mexico for all-inclusive resorts.

As a parent, I always bring my whole family to my trips.

Besides listening to their reviews, I interviewed fellow parents to provide an accurate and well-informed assessment.

I used the reviews shared by other travelers on Tripadvisor and Yelp for the resorts I have yet to visit.

Our Resort Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to evaluate the availability and variety of family-friendly amenities at every resort. Does it feature water parks, playgrounds, and kids’ clubs? Does the resort organize events designed specifically for kids? I ask myself these questions whenever I rate this resort’s kid-friendly activities. 
• Family Accommodations: This is used to assess the family accommodations of the resort. Are the rooms spacious? Does it offer family suites with connecting rooms? Can it accommodate families of different sizes? Is there a crib or baby-proofing in every room? These questions are essential whenever I rate the resort’s family accommodations. 
• Dining Options: This evaluates the dining options at the resort. Are there kid-friendly menus or buffet-style dining at the resort? Can the on-site restaurants cater to everyone’s dietary preferences and needs? I use these questions to assess the dining options of every property. 
• Safety and Security: I use this criterion to assess the safety and security of the resorts. Are there lifeguards at the swimming pools? Are the premises secured? Is the staff trained to handle any emergency? I consider these factors when rating the property’s safety and security. 
• Value for Money: This is used to evaluate the value of money provided by the resort. Are the room rates reasonable? Are the services, activities, and amenities suitable for the price? I ask myself these questions to rate the value for money provided by the resort. 
• Location and Accessibility: This measures how accessible the resort is for families. How far is it from the popular family attractions? Is it easily accessible via public transportation? Does the resort offer airport transfers? These are the questions I ask myself when evaluating the property’s location and accessibility. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where is the best location for all-inclusive in mexico.

The Riviera Maya, located on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, offers the perfect blend of pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts, making it an ideal destination for a complete and immersive vacation experience in Mexico. 

Is There An All-Inclusive Family Resort In Mexico That Provides Babysitting Services?

Sandos Caracol Eco Experience Resort is an all-inclusive family resort in Mexico that provides babysitting services. 

Conclusion 

The best all inclusive family resorts in Mexico always satisfy its guests.

All are full of modern amenities that meet the needs of each family.

Our clan members enjoyed their stay when we visited Sandos Caracol Eco Experience Resort.

The kids were at the splash pool while we were in our own area.

We didn’t need to worry about their safety because we availed the resort’s babysitting services.

We felt like rock stars when we stayed at Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta. 

I remember going to a concert one night and kayaking the next day.

Generations Riviera Maya was also exciting since we went on an Eco Tour with our kids. 

It had a strong line-up of activities designed for young children. 

But Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun was the best among the pack.

It features entertaining activities for every member of your family.

And it ensures you’ll have plenty to do during your stay.

Exploring Mexico with Kids: 6 Week Itinerary

Mexico is a fantastic destination to explore as a family! Mexico is a huge country, we narrowed down this family-friendly itinerary to seven locations to explore over six weeks, moving west to east. We’ll start our six-week itinerary in Mexico with kids in the Pacific resort town of Puerto Vallarta, and end in Merida, the capital of the Yucatan state.

We spent the first six months of our family year out ( what’s that? ) exploring the United States, with a lot of road trips including one into Canada and one into Baja Norte . When we embarked on this adventure through Mexico, our girls were aged 4 and 7.

This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase.   As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. All our recommendations are our own and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

At the bottom of this post,  download a free guide: BUT IS IT SAFE?? An Essential Guide for Family Travel.

Lodging: Booking.com Flight Deals: Skyscanner Rental Cars: Discover Cars Airport Transfers: Welcome Pickups

Digital SIM Cards: Airalo eSIM Travel Insurance: SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Exploring Mexico with Kids

Puerto Vallarta is a great starting city because there are many inexpensive flights from the United States landing here. We also felt that a beach location would be a great way to ease into our travels.

This trip ends in Merida, the capital of the Yucatan state, to coincide with a WorldSchool Popup . We will join other worldschooling families for a week of educational activities and fun. We are hopeful that this will create great social experiences for our girls. As we travel, our girls often struggle to have enough social interaction with peers.

Mexico is full of family-friendly destinations. Some families traveling to Mexico are looking for a relaxing beach vacation- they tend to choose the resort areas of Cabo, Cancun, or Isla Mujeres.

While we love beautiful beaches, we were looking to combine beach towns with other cities for a more authentic Mexican experience. We wanted to expose our kids to different areas of Mexico with different traditions and different cuisine.

A Note About Pace:

The longer we travel, the slower we tend to move. We expect to be traveling internationally for at least a year, so we are slowing down to minimize costs, and avoid travel burnout.

You may find that you prefer a faster or slower pace for your family. This six-week itinerary is designed to be a guideline for you to modify to create your own trip across Mexico with kids, we’ll include alternate or additional stops of interest when we can.

Puerto Vallarta- 7 Nights

Puerto Vallarta is a popular resort town on the Pacific Ocean, halfway down the Western coast of Mexico. Known for its beautiful beaches, and charming Zona Romantico, it’s a great place to soak up some sun and also have wonderful cultural experiences.

If you are coming from the West Coast of the US, be aware that Puerto Vallarta (and most of central Mexico) is 2 hours ahead of California, putting it at the same time as Central Standard Time.

Puerto Vallarta is also a top-notch place to see Humpback whales- starting in mid-December each year thousands of Humpback whales migrate through the bay around Puerto Vallarta, making for amazing wildlife experiences.

Whale Watch in Puerto Vallarta

A whale watch in Puerto Vallarta is a great opportunity to see humpback whales which are pretty easy to spot from December to March.

This whale watch includes either breakfast (yummy chilaquiles), and drinks for the morning departure or lunch for the afternoon trip. The water can be rough at times, but nothing too dramatic. The kids really enjoyed the trip, though they were tired by the long ride back and ended up taking a nap.

“We went in the morning when it was calm and saw a mother, baby and male humpback within 10 minutes then several more that morning plus a sea turtle.” Janet_H (read more reviews )

Book Now: Whale Watch in Puerto Vallarta

Enjoy a day at the beach on Playa Los Muertos, then head north through the Zona Romantica to Isle Rio Caule, where you can explore a famous flea market. Some of the handmade items here were beautiful, we’re trying hard not to buy things, as our bags are too heavy already!

Stroll over the Rio Cuale bridge to the downtown area. Just north of here is the Malecon (boardwalk) where you’ll wander along the sea, past 15 large sculptures. There are a mix of vendors here, from art galleries to coffee shops and restaurants. The Chocomuseum is here if you want to stop for a chocolate-making workshop.

There are many great day trips from Puerto Vallarta including the smaller beach towns of Sayulita, Bucerías, and Yelapa.

Staying in Puerto Vallarta? We have a complete guide to getting around Puerto Vallarta as well a list of things Not to do in Puerto Vallarta !

Getting to Puerto Vallarta:

We flew United Airlines from San Francisco, it’s a 3 hr, 45 minutes flight. We recommend Skyscanner to find the best flights for your family.

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta:

Budget Hotel: Flamingo Vallarta Hotel & Marina .

This hotel is right on the marina, north of the zona romantic, so a better deal than many of the more zona romantic hotels.

The hotel has an “all-inclusive” option and an onsite restaurant which is a buffet, at a set price without an a la carte option. There is a well-manicured garden area, and a pool with several different depths (1 foot, 5 foot, 6 inches), which makes it ideal for younger kids.

The pool and garden area are lovely, and the lobby is well decorated. The rooms are large, and although the furniture is a bit shabby, the beds are comfortable.

Book Now: Flamingo Vallarta Hotel & Marina

Hotel in the Zona Romantica: Hotel Posada de Roger . This hotel has a great location in the zona romantic. It’s walking distance to Playa de Los Muertos. There is a shared kitchen as well as a restaurant on site.

We booked this one and then reconsidered based on price, but I think we’ll actually make up the difference between eating breakfast out and paying for more taxi rides.

Book Now: Hotel Posada de Roger

Day Trip: Yelapa

From Puerto Vallarta, consider a day trip to the fishing village of Yelapa. It has a lovely, wide beach, and a village that winds through the jungle.

There are no cars on Yelapa, and it can only be reached by horse, ATV, or water taxi. Many tourists never leave the beach, but the village is where the charm is, make sure to explore the town.

Check out the details of our one day itinerary in Yelapa .

Getting to Yelapa:

Take a pangas (water taxi) from either Playa de Los Muertos Pier, or Boca de Tomatlan. The boat ride from Los Muertos, which is in the zona romantic, takes about an hour each way. Buy tickets on the street before getting in line at the Pier. You can check the schedule here .

Day Trip: Bucerías

Bucerías is about half an hour north of Puerto Vallarta. It is a smaller town, with a central square, church, and El Buzo, the diving sculpture next to the big town letters.

This town makes a lovely day trip- the beach is wide, sandy, and the waves are gentle, making it perfect for families. Grab a seat at a palapa on the beach, enjoy some homemade lemonade, and play in the sand.

When you are ready to escape the busy center of town, head south through the market full of souvenirs, to the Paseo del Beso, the alley of the kiss. Cross the river- there used to be a bridge at the end of the alley, but it was under construction when we were there.

Across the bridge stroll down Calle Làzaro Càrdenas. It’s a quiet street with shops and restaurants.

Getting to Bucieras:

Take a taxi or Uber from Puerto Vallarta, it should cost you around 250 pesos for a direct trip one way.

Alternate Stop: Artists Market in Nuevo Vallarta

On Saturday, the Tianguis Artesanal is held in Nuevo Vallarta, in between Puerto Vallarta and Bucíeras.

This is a small market, but you’ll find high-quality artists here, as well as a few food vendors. If you’re looking for jewelry, or want to snack on a hand-pressed tortilla, this makes a great stop on the way to Bucíeras.

San Miguel de Allende- 4 Nights

San Miguel de Allende is a colonial town, that in 2018 was named “Best City in the World” by Travel & Leisure Magazine for its combination of creative restaurants, and beautiful architecture.

San Miguel de Allende is known for Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, its pink gothic church, which is along one side of the central plaza, called El Jardin.

Enjoy wandering through the picturesque Centro (which is a UNESCO World Heritage site) and visiting artisanal markets, or relax in El Jardin. The Centro is all pedestrian, full of cobblestone streets, alleys, and inner courtyards.

Visit Mercado del Carmen for dinner- this open-air food market is known for its wide variety of delicious cuisine- from tacos to sushi, to curry. We passed the entrance to this several times without realizing it. Once you find the sign, proceed through the first restaurant to the back courtyard to find the Mercado.

Don’t Miss our top tips on what Not to do in San Miguel de Allende !

Getting to San Miguel de Allende:

Fly to Querétaro Intercontinental Airport (QRO) via Volaris Airlines , then take a shuttle 1 1/2 hours to San Miguel de Allende. For the shuttle, if not offered by your hotel, you can book online at Baji Go .

Where to Stay in San Miguel de Allende: Posada Maria Luisa . This small hotel is an easy walk to the center of San Miguel de Allende. Decorated with carved wooden headboards, and traditional textiles, they have family rooms with a king bed, full bed, sofa bed, and balcony. Depending on your room, the traffic outside can be a bit loud, but overall it’s a lovely place.

Book Now: Posada Maria Luisa

Mexico City- 7 Nights

Mexico City is the capital of Mexico and a vibrant mix of modern and historic architecture. There is so much to explore here, you could spend months wandering through just a few neighborhoods.

Don’t miss the Zocalo, with its Aztec ruins at El Templo Mayor, and the beautiful Palacio de Bellas Artes.

You may want to also include a visit to Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s home that is now a museum. While there, you’ll want to explore other parts of the Coyoacán neighborhood.

Mexico City is easy to navigate using the metro system, though you may want to avoid rush hour if possible. Please note that suitcases are not allowed on the metro, so plan to take a taxi or Uber if you need to move around with luggage. Kids under 5 ride free.

The metro can get crowded. We are used to the New York City Subway, so it didn’t bother us, but be prepared for crowded cars. We found that at times it was fairly empty, and at other times there were large crowds. We were always able to get onto the first train that arrived, but there were rarely free seats.

Getting to Mexico City:

Primera Plus bus from San Miguel de Allende to Mexico City. This bus ride is 3 hr, 50 minutes to the Northern Bus Station in Mexico City, called the Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte.

Where to Stay in Mexico City: Departamentos Amueblados la Condesa . This is a full 2 bedroom apartment in the Condesa neighborhood. This apartment is a few blocks from the Bosque de Chapultepec and an easy walk to the Chapultepec metro station. We loved this neighborhood, and this apartment is halfway between all the restaurants and parks on one side, and the metro on the other.

Book Now: Departamentos Amueblados la Condesa

Day Trip: Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is one of the most important archeological sites in Mexico. This vast site was once a city of over 100,000 people. It’s a mystery who actually built it, after it was abandoned it was taken over by the Aztec people, who gave this site the temple names we know today.

The Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Moon are the main large temples that anchor the site- unfortunately, you cannot currently climb them.

There are a few informational signs around Teotihuacan, but many of them have faded to an unreadable state. You’ll need a guide, or at least a guidebook to understand what you are seeing here.

Getting to Teotihuacan:

We visited Teotihuacan on a day tour that included stops at Tlatelolco and the Basilica Guadalupe. This was a convenient way to see a few major sites without worrying about getting ourselves around, and most importantly, meant we had a guide to give us some context at Teotihuacan.

Book Now: Teotihuacan Day Tour

If you’d prefer to head to Teotihuacan on your own, to explore at your own speed, take a bus from Autobuses del Norte (you can get there on the Metro via the yellow 5 line).

Inside the bus station, you’ll find a ticket window that says “Autobuses Teotihuacan” close to Gate 8. Buses leave about every 10 minutes. The bus ride takes about an hour to get to the pyramids.

Puebla- 3 Nights

Puebla is just two hours southeast of Mexico City and is often visited as a day trip from Mexico City, but there’s a lot to see here. There are lots of ornate churches, and charming, colorful alleys to wander through.

Puebla is the site of the Battle of Puebla, where the Mexican Army defeated the French Army. This victory is celebrated annually as Cinqo de Mayo. Puebla is also where the Mexican Revolution started. A fun fact, people who live in Puebla are called poblanos.

Start with the zocalo, and Puebla Cathedral, which has a stunning alter. Talavera pottery is made in Puebla- visit Uriarte (Av. 4 Pte. 911) to learn about the process.

Be sure to try Chiles en Nogada (stuffed pepper with nogada sauce) when pomegranates are in season. All year-round, you can sample mole poblano- Puebla’s specific version of mole sauce.

Don’t miss wandering around Callejon de Los Sapos, a street filled with colorful homes and shops, on the weekend you’ll find an open-air antique market here with everything from jewelry to figurines.

Getting to Puebla:

Take the ADO bus from Mexico City (2 hours). There are departures from two terminals, Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente and Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte. Check the map to see which is most convenient for you based on where you are staying in Mexico City.

Check Schedule: ADO Bus from Mexico City to Puebla

Where to Stay in Puebla: Milagro Hotel . This hotel is right in the center of Puebla. A restored colonial house, decorated with a modern twist. It has a lovely interior courtyard and an onsite restaurant.

The rooms are on the second floor, with the courtyard in the middle. Our room had two king beds, high ceilings, and a cool stained glass window set deep in the stone wall. This was one of the prettiest rooms we’ve had- there were two separate sleeping spaces with a closet in the middle and a small refrigerator.

Book Now: Milagro Hotel

Day Trip: Cholula

From Puebla, take a day trip to the town of Cholula, known for the largest (by area) pyramid in Latin America. Just 30 minutes from Puebla, Cholula is a “pueblo magico”, or “magic town” designated for its cultural value.

Getting to Cholula:

Cholula is only about a 20-minute drive from Puebla, so it’s easiest to take an Uber or call a taxi. It should cost you around 200 Pesos each way.

There was a free, (then cheap) tourist train from Puebla to Cholula which dropped you right by the pyramid. However, the tourist train stopped running on January 1, 2022.

Huatulco- 5 Nights

Huatulco is a beach town south of Oaxaca on the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its nine bays. While there are some upscale beach resorts here, a lot of the bays are actually part of a protected national park. You’ll sometimes see it on maps as Santa Cruz Huatulco.

Playa Entrega is a great, easy place to introduce kids to snorkeling- the water is calm, and changes depth gradually.

There’s a lot to see and do here- the “7 Bays Tour” comes highly recommended. You’ll see 7 different bays, many in the national park, do some snorkeling, and have lunch on the beach.

Check Prices: Huatulco 7 Bays Full Day Tour

We are also excited to visit a sea turtle sanctuary and hopefully release baby sea turtles back into the ocean. This will be a real “Moana” moment for our family! I’m excited about this one!

Also, there are tours to see a bioluminescent bay! We did something similar in Puerto Rico on our honeymoon, and it was stunning. We are hoping to arrange this at a time our kids can handle, as many of the group tours return at midnight.

There is a tour that combines the bioluminescent bay with a sea turtle sanctuary , which could make for a fantastic, memorable day. The drives are long, so you will get back late, it may be worth bringing PJs and letting the kids sleep on the way back.

Check Prices: Sea Turtles & Bioluminescent Bay Tour

Huatulco is 2 hours East of the surf town of Puerto Escondido. We considered visiting there instead, as it’s a bit more laid back, and many tours seem to head in that direction. However, since it’s a surf town, the beaches are less family-friendly, with stronger surf.

Getting to Huatulco:

From Puebla, take the ADO Bus to the Mexico City Airport, (2 hrs 15 min) then fly direct to HUX on Volaris Air (1 hr 10 min).

The ADO bus going to the Mexico City airport leaves from Paseo Destino, a mall in southern Puebla. It arrives at Terminal 1 of the airport. Our bus stopped at Terminal 2, then continued on to Terminal 1.

Check Schedule: ADO Bus from Puebla to Mexico City

Volaris Airlines has a nonstop flight, (1 hr 10 minutes) from Mexico City to Huatulco.

Getting to and from Huatulco can be a bit of a challenge. We originally were considering a geographic path of Mexico City to Oaxaca, then Oaxaca to Huatulco.

However, the bus ride from Oaxaca to Huatulco is about 9 hours, and we didn’t want to do that twice. You can fly from Huatulco to Oaxaca, but not directly, you’ll need to transit through Mexico City.

We found it made more sense to fly from Mexico City to Huatulco, then take the bus to Oaxaca. From Oaxaca, there are direct flights to our next destination, Merida.

There is no Uber in Huatulco, so you’ll need to take an official airport taxi into town after you arrive. Once you are in town, the taxi stands have posted prices for poplar locations, just confirm the price with your driver.

Where to Stay in Hualtulco: Hotel Santa Cruz Huatulco . This budget hotel has a great location close to the marina. It is an easy walk to Playa Santa Cruz and has a lovely pool with a shaded palapa area. There is also a restaurant and bar on site. We found this hotel to be clean, basic, and in a great location. They have water coolers in the hallways where you can fill your water bottle.

Book Now: Hotel Santa Cruz Huatulco

Oaxaca- 5 Nights

Oaxaca City (officially Oaxaca de Juarez) is the capital city of Oaxaca State. This state is in southern Mexico, about a 6 1/2 hour drive from Mexico City. This beautiful, colonial city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Oaxaca is considered the home of mole sauce, chocolate, and even stone soup! Oaxaca is one of the most ethnically diverse regions in Mexico- the Zapotecs and Mixtecs are the most populous, but more than 18 ethnic groups are represented.

The Centro Historico is where most tourists stay, this area around the zocalo (main square) is very walkable. Start with a free walking tour to get oriented. This tour starts at 10:00 each day, from Teatro Macedonio Alcala. Look for the yellow t-shirt or yellow umbrella.

There are lots of fun markets in Oaxaca, from the Mercado de Artisanias de Oaxaca (the artists market with art, crafts, textiles, etc), to the Mercado de Benito Juarez, with traditional shops and lots of food.

Be sure to stroll the pedestrian street of Calle de Macedonia Alcala, filled with shops and restaurants. The botanical garden is fantastic- you can only visit by guided tour, check the schedule for the English tours, and get there early to get in line as spaces are limited.

While in Oaxaca, visit El Tule, the largest tree on earth (by diameter). Located in the small town of Santa Maria del Tule, it’s about ten minutes from Oaxaca, you can get there by taxi, collectivo, or bus.

When I traveled across Mexico as a backpacker almost 20 years ago (which sounds crazy, time flies!) Oaxaca was one of my favorite regions of Mexico. I’m excited to go back as a family and see if this is still the case!

Uber is not available in Oaxaca, so you’ll need to rely on taxis or buses to move around outside the city center.

Don’t miss our full post on where to eat in Oaxaca with kids .

Getting To Oaxaca:

Take the ADO bus from Huatulco to Oaxaca, approx. 9 hours.

This was a very difficult route to book ahead of time, for some reason it wasn’t listed on many of the bus booking sites. I was finally able to book the route via Clickbus with an AMEX card only.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: Hotel Oaxaca Real . A restored colonial mansion in the center of Oaxaca. Walking distance to the major Centro sites, it has a lovely interior courtyard with a small pool in the middle. Rooms here are small, but the kids enjoyed the morning hot chocolate in the lobby.

Book Now: Hotel Oaxaca Real

Day Trip: Monte Alban

Monte Alban is the most important archeological site in Oaxaca. This Mesoamerican site was inhabited for over 1500 years by the Olmecs, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs people.

The entrance fee to the ruins is 75 pesos. You can climb many of the structures, which makes it a great place to explore. You’ll also see an observatory and ball court.

Make sure to bring water and perhaps a hat, as there is very little shade at the site.

Getting to Monte Alban:

Monte Alban is only about 10 Km from Oaxaca City, so there are several easy ways to get there. Taxis and Ubers are the most expensive option but offer the most flexibility.

Travel agencies arrange shuttle buses from the city center. Check with agencies around the main square. You will generally have a set time to return to the shuttle, giving you a few hours to explore the site.

One of the easiest ways to get to Monte Alban is on an organized tour. You’ll get tons of information about the site, and not have to plan your own transportation.

Merida- 11 Nights

Merida is the capital city of the Yucatan state and is considered the center of Yucutan culture. Merida is very hot (even in February), so it’s best to plan activities for the morning and evening, and spend the hottest part of the afternoon indoors.

Start exploring Merida with kids on a free walking tour of the city- it leaves at 9:30 each morning from the Plaza Grande. Register with the Merida Tourist office ahead of time to join the tour, you’ll find the office on the west side of the main square.

Part of what sets Merida apart from other cities in Mexico is the wide boulevard of Paseo de Montejo. This street is flanked by grand homes from the colonial period. You can visit some that have been converted into museums, or just stroll through to admire the architecture.

There are tons of cultural experiences around Merida- check out a traditional game of Pok Ta Pok (Mayan ball game) every Wednesday at 8 pm in front of the cathedral at Plaza Grande. This performance is popular and starts with a cleansing ceremony around 7:45, so arrive early to get a seat.

We also enjoyed Noche Mexicana, which is a free performance of folk songs and dances from around Mexico. This is held every Saturday from 8 pm until midnight at the Remate de Paseo de Montejo. Seats are easier to get for this, so you don’t need to arrive much before the start time.

From Merida, you can explore several pre-Hispanic sites including Uxmal, Mayapan, and Chichen Itza.

We met up with a group of worldschoolers in Merida, which is why we choose to stay in this location for so long. If we were just visiting on our own, a week would be enough time to see the city and take a few day trips to sites around Merida.

Did you know that Chichen Itza is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World? This pyramid is worth seeing, as are the other wonders, including Christ the Redeemer which is part of our Brazil Itinerary , and of course, the Taj Mahal in India !

Getting to Merida:

Fly Volaris , they have one non-stop flight from Oaxaca (OAX) to Merida (MID), 1 hr 32 min.

This non-stop flight is less expensive and faster than the flights through Mexico City. This flight only operates on Monday and Friday mornings.

Where to Stay in Merida: Apartment via Airbnb. Since we will be in Merida for 11 nights, we chose an Airbnb in the neighborhood of García Ginerés, northwest of the Centro. We found that there were not a lot of restaurant options close to us, so we spent a lot of time taking Ubers in and out of the Centro. In the future, we would stay a bit closer into the Centro.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel María Jose . This hotel gets great reviews, is an easy walk to everything in the Centro, has a pool for those hot afternoons, and breakfast is included, all at a fantastic price.

Book Now: Hotel María Jose

Cancun- 1-5 Nights

Cancun has a reputation as a party town- and while it can be that, there are also a lot of family-friendly things to do as well. Cancun is packed with hotels, resorts, and restaurants. You will find many all-inclusive places, as well as simple downtown hotels.

Cancun has beautiful beaches (though stinky seaweed called sargassum has been a problem the past few years), Mayan ruins, water parks, pirate-themed dinner cruises, and more.

Just 15 minutes by ferry is Isla Mujeres, which has more beaches, shops, and restaurants. A golf cart is a popular way to get around the island. The north is more walkable, while the south end of the island has a more quiet, isolated feel.

Cancun is one hour later than central Mexico, putting it on US Eastern Standard Time.

Getting To Cancun:

Take the bus from Merida to Cancun. ADO buses run every half hour, approx. 4 1/2 hours.

Strangely, buses don’t run directly from Merida to the Cancun airport. Cancun is a popular transit point, so you’ll find a lot of good deals flying in and out of this airport.

You can also choose to fly out of the Merida airport, but you’ll have to transfer in Mexico City. We opted to take the bus to Cancun, then fly out the next day.

Where to Stay in Cancun:

There are several areas to choose from in Cancun, we’ll be staying downtown since we are only staying one night.

If you’re planning to stay a few days and enjoy the beach, you’ll want to either get a hotel on the northern end of the hotel zone or take the ferry out to Isla Mujeres and stay at a resort there.

Isla Mujeres allows you to have beachfront access and be able to walk to restaurants and shops, while staying on the beach in Cancun you’ll need to take a taxi into town.

Downtown Budget Hotel: Adhara Hacienda Cancun

This colorful colonial-style hotel is in the walkable downtown area. There is a pool with varying depths and a swim-up bar. They also provide a shuttle to the beach. A great choice for a quick stopover if you are flying out of Cancun.

Book Now: Adhara Hacienda Cancun

Isla Mujeres Beachfront Hotel: Hotel Paradise Suites

This peaceful hotel is steps from Norte Beach. Some rooms include a kitchenette. This beautiful hotel has the best of both worlds- walking to restaurants and shops, but easy access to the beach.

Book Now: Hotel Paradise Suites

Cancun Beachfront Hotel: Krystal Grand Cancun

This resort right on the beach on the north side of the peninsula has wonderful beach access. It also has a large two-level pool, so you swim in deeper water or relax in a lounger in the shallow area. All rooms include a balcony.

Book Now: Krystal Grand Cancun

Visas and Requirements: What Do I Need to Enter Mexico?

Americans do not need a visa to enter Mexico. You will need to fill out an FMM immigration form. If you are staying in Mexico for more than seven days, there is a fee of $30 USD. You can pay this online if traveling across the border by land, but if you are flying into Mexico, the fee is included in your airfare.

Fill out the FMM form online , print it out, and bring a paper copy with you to the border. Beware , there are many sites that will try to charge you for filing your paperwork for you, make sure you are using the free government site (linked above). If you are flying into Mexico, you can also fill this form out on the plane.

Be sure to always check changing requirements and regulations, as the situation can change quickly.

Is Mexico Safe for Families?

Mexico is generally safe for families, though, like any place, you need to take some basic precautions. Use your street smarts- do not stray too far from tourist-friendly neighborhoods unless you have knowledge of the specific area.

Avoid driving at night, and opt for Uber or official taxis from a taxi stand rather than hailing a taxi on the street.

Do not flash expensive items, or obviously carry a lot of cash.

Be sure to watch anyone swiping your credit card, they should never turn their back on you while holding your card (giving them a chance to double swipe and save your card info).

Worried about safety? We’ve compiled our best safety tips for families .

Can I Drink the Water in Mexico?

The water in Mexico is notorious for making American tourists ill. The water in Mexico has different bacteria than most US water, so most American stomachs are not accustomed to it. For the same reason, Mexicans visiting the US often get sick from drinking the water here.

It’s best to drink either bottled water or to filter or sanitize the water before you drink it. Water bottles with built-in filters like LifeStraw clean the water as you drink.

We prefer using Steripen , which purifies the water with ultraviolet light. It takes a minute to do, but Steripen is rechargeable, and we don’t have to worry about carrying around extra filters.

Check Prices: Steripen Water Purifier

Getting Around Mexico

There are lots of ways to move around Mexico, but keep in mind that the distances between cities can be vast. We originally were planning to move mostly overland but realized that we are better off taking some short, low-cost flights, rather than overnight or very long bus rides.

Flying within Mexico

 There are several airlines that operate across Mexico, including AeroMexico ,  AeroMar ,  Volaris , and  VivaAerobus . 

We’ve booked all of our internal flights via Volaris. They have great prices and flew the routes we needed. Also, if you take several flights with them, you can save money with either v.club depending on the class far you choose.

Always check Skyscanner for the best prices on any route. One of the things I love about Skyscanner is that once you choose your flight they direct you to the airline website to actually book the flight, so you aren’t dealing with a middleman if you need to make changes.

Check Flights: Skyscanner

Booking Flights on Volaris

Like most low-cost airlines, Volaris makes most of its money with extras, from luggage to seat selection. Mandatory airport taxes also increase the cost. Make sure to click all the way through the online process to get a complete quote for your intended flight.

Volaris has several different classes of fares. When you search for your flight, you’ll see a calendar view that allows you to compare fares for different days. Initial fares can start as low as $10 USD per person if you book at least a month in advance. It’s best to set the search engine to Mexican Pesos so that you avoid their currency translator.

Volaris has Regular Prices and v.club Prices. If you will be flying several times with Volaris, you’ll need to search all the fares at once to calculate whether the v.club membership makes sense for you.

Volaris v.club Membership

The v.club membership has an annual cost of 2,000 pesos for a family of 2 adults and 2 kids. You’ll then save on each individual ticket that you purchase. Be aware that the larger quoted number is the v.club cost per month, but the full year is charged at one time.

Depending on which fare class you chose, you’ll need to fly more often to make back the cost of the v.club and save money. If you choose a v.club flight, the initial membership cost will be included in your first purchase.

Volaris Fare Classes

We booked the lowest Base fare, which includes two cabin bags with a combined weight limit of 22 pounds for each passenger, and the last priority for boarding. The Classic fare includes the same baggage, but with a weight limit of 44 pounds and is the second priority for boarding. This makes sense if you are bringing most of your luggage as a carry-on and need the extra weight.

The final fare class is Plus, which includes the same cabin bags as Classic, plus one included checked bag and priority boarding.

Volaris Extras: Luggage and Seats

As you proceed through booking you can add extra cabin weight to a specific passenger, and add checked baggage for a fee of 350 pesos per bag.

You will also have to pay an Airport Usage Fee, which is sometimes as much or more than the fare itself.

Next, you will select seats. Hover over the map of the plane to see the price of each seat. As you move to the back of the plane, the price decreases. I generally book us two window seats and two middle seats at the front of the cheapest section. Seats range from $200 pesos for premium, to 60 pesos near the rear of the plane.

You’re almost there! You’ll need to enter your personal details and payment to confirm the flight.

It’s worth noting that I got to this point in my plane ticket search several times and then was unable to complete the booking online. When that happened, I downloaded the Volaris App and was able to make a purchase easily through the app on my phone.

Taking Buses in Mexico

There are several major bus companies in Mexico- Primera Plus and ETN operate mostly in Central Mexico, ADO has extensive coverage across Central Mexico and the Yucutan.

The First Class buses are generally comfortable, with reclining seats, bathrooms, and overhead tv screens.

Many of the bus companies allow you to save money by booking seats ahead of time, but many of the direct bus company websites do not currently accept US credit cards.

Finding each route and pre-booking can be time-consuming, we’ve outlined above for each specific route where we were able to pre-book with US credit cards. In many cases, Bookaway is a great way to prebook tickets.

Check Schedules: Bookaway Bus Routes

You can also book your onward journey ahead of time at the bus station when you first arrive in town. We were more likely to use this strategy pre-kids. Now, we’d much rather have the arrangements made ahead of time than drag the kids to the bus station to stand in line to buy our next set of tickets.

Finally, you can book your ticket the day you travel, but you’ll pay a little more, and may find you have to wait for the next trip if the bus is already full.

Taking Uber and Taxis in Mexico

Uber operates throughout most of Mexico (Lyft does not). Taking an Uber is a great way to get around as they are often cheaper than taxis, and the cost is clear and upfront.

We have found that there is often a 10-20 minute wait for an Uber, but it is great for getting a price quote. Then if we opt for a taxi we know about what we should be paying.

Cabify is a similar ride-sharing app that works well in Northern and Central Mexico such as Tijuana, Guadalajara, Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, Puebla, as well as in Merida.

If you decide to use a taxi in Mexico, it’s best to take a taxi from a hotel or other taxi stand, rather than hailing one from the street. Restaurants can also call a taxi for you. Always check for a meter or agree on a price beforehand.

Renting a Car in Mexico

Renting a car in Mexico is a great way to get out of the center of towns and explore the region more thoroughly. If you choose to rent a car in Mexico, we recommend Discover Cars .

Discover Cars is very upfront about what is included in your car rental. They also offer free cancelation if your plans change. Many other services will quote a very low price, which will almost double once mandatory insurance is included.

Check Rental Car Prices at Discover Cars

Don’t miss our complete post on driving around Mexico for more safety tips and details about driving in Mexico.

Tips for Traveling in Mexico with Kids

Here are a few tips for traveling in Mexico with kids, to help you be prepared and navigate across this large country.

Mexico is largely a cash-based society. While credit cards are used in hotels and some upper-tier shops, expect to use cash at restaurants, smaller vendors, for tolls, and parking, if driving. Don’t assume a restaurant will take credit cards. Small coins are also necessary for using public bathrooms.

Be Prepared for Long Distances

Mexico is huge. If you plan to move around various regions, expect long (even overnight) bus rides, or many in-between stops. It may make sense to fly between larger cities rather than trying to go overland.

Choose to Explore Different Regions

Mexico varies in culture and cuisine as you change regions. Make sure to explore the regional specialties of more than one area of Mexico.

In Oaxaca, you’ll find seven kinds of mole sauce, and chauplines- grasshoppers that are eaten as a crunchy snack. While in the Yucatan you’ll find delicious marquesitas which are like a cross between a crepe and a waffle cone filled with cajeta (similar to dulce de leche) and queso.

These regional differences are part of what makes traveling across Mexico so much fun!

There You Have It: Exploring Mexico with Kids

Six wonderful weeks across Mexico with kids! From the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, all the way across to Merida in the Yucatan, in this itinerary, we’ve covered lots of family-friendly ways to experience some of Mexico with kids.

You may also be interested in our itinerary for Ensenada , Mexico. Headed on to South America? Check out our itineraries for Colombia , Peru , and Brazil . Don’t miss our tips for travel in South America for families.

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

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• All-Inclusive Vacations

18 Best All-Inclusive Mexico Resorts for Families 2021

Jun 10, 2021

See recent posts by Amanda Norcross

Thinking about an all-inclusive resort vacation in Mexico? We’ve chosen our favorite all-inclusive Mexico family resorts for 2021, with family-specific amenities, accommodations, reviews, and ratings in mind. Plus, we’ve personally visited them and are here to tell you they really are as good as they seem.

These are the best all-inclusive Mexico resorts for families in 2021.

1. Generations Riviera Maya – Riviera Maya 

Generations Rivera Maya offers the Eko Kids Club with arts and crafts , gaming consoles , books , and games for children ages 4 to 12; the Little Eko Chefs program in which kids can learn to cook simple, delicious meals; and the Teens Club with a social media center, movies, billiards, and more for ages 13 and up… and that’s just the kids’ clubs. Other highlights for families include family-themed in-room dining at night for those staying in the one-, two- , or three-bedroom suites; a designated family lounge with a library and reading area; baby amenities such as cribs , strollers , bottle sterilizers , and even baby food ; a kids’ pool (plus two other swimming pools); family dinners on the beach… we could keep going. Take advantage of the onsite babysitting or private nanny services and treat yourself to a massage at the Náay Spa.

2. Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun – Cancun

Fiesta American Condesa Cancun lives up to its name with fun for the whole family. The beachfront resort fully embraces Mexican culture, which guests can enjoy through food, music, and more. Don’t miss the poolside Mexican Fiesta, with costumed performers, churros, balloons, and other treats! Families interested in local culture will love it here, like excursions to Chichen Itza, Xcaret, and more are available with tours leaving right from the property. The all-inclusive rates include kids’ and teen clubs, entertainment on select evenings, an incredible range of dining options, and modern, spacious guestrooms with balconies.

3. Fairmont Mayakoba – Playa del Carmen

An AAA 5-Diamond resort , the Fairmont Mayakoba  offers an all-inclusive package with unlimited dining and premium beverages; beach service; and beautiful accommodations with complimentary in-room mini-bars. The package allows up to two children to stay free in a room with their parents. For kids ages 6 to 17, meal plans are available for a promotional price; kids under 5 eat free. All-inclusive rates also cover three complimentary hours at the kids’ club daily for children between age 5 and 11. Note that very few accommodations are located right on the beach (but let’s be real—your kids won’t mind after they get a load of the giant pool with waterslide). Instead, this all-inclusive resort is located in a lush jungle of mangroves, canals and lagoons (on which you can take boat tours and in some cases, reach your guestroom!) that have been preserved to protect the local environment.

4. Grand Residences Riviera Cancun – Puerto Morelos

The Grand Residences Riviera Cancun wins us over with its spacious suites for large families. The largest accommodations offer three bedrooms, and all suites have kitchenettes or full kitchens, as well as private terraces or balconies. Some also have washing machines and dryers. Onsite restaurants, a kids’ club for children ages 4 to 12, an activity center with water and land sports equipment, pools, a spa, and a stunning location in Puerto Morelos (near Cancun) round out the appeal for families.

5. Paradisus by Melia Playa del Carmen

The oceanfront  Paradisus by Melia Playa del Carmen offers both adults-only and family-friendly options. Book The Reserve for access to adults-only restaurants, lounges, and beaches (along with exclusive amenities and specialized concierge services). Meanwhile, families can enjoy fun extras for kids like a milk and cookies turndown service or the Kids Zone for children 12 months and older.

6. Hotel Xcaret Mexico – Playa del Carmen

Hotel Xcaret Mexico isn’t just an all-inclusive resort; it’s a true family vacation destination! Sure, families who book the ALL-FUN INCLUSIVE® experience enjoy free airport transfers; overnight accommodations in chic guestrooms and suites (some with swim-up features ); delicious meals; swimming pools; and access to the beach. But they also get access to the following attractions: Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xavage, Xoximilco and Xenses, as well as Xenotes and Xichen tours. Transportation between parks is included, too.

7. Grand Velas Riviera Maya – Riviera Maya

One of the most luxurious all-inclusive resorts in the world ,  Grand Velas Rivera Maya is the ultimate escape, with amenities for every age. Grand Velas Riviera Maya has a Baby Concierge, so you can request everything from baby’s first haircut to nanny services to infant amenities in your room. Little ones can learn Spanish and make balloon animals while tweens can rock out in Guitar Hero tournaments. And teens will be thrilled with the resort’s chic teen club, as well as its Instagram photo tours. When you find your stomach rumbling after a day of activities on the beach, head for one of the many onsite restaurants, each serving a different cuisine—you can have Spanish-inspired dishes for lunch and then Italian for dinner. Plus, there is 24-hour room service in your spacious, roughly 1,200-square-foot suite for those must-have, late-night snacks. Grand Velas has other resorts in Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta .

8. Beach Palace Cancun – Cancun

With nearly 50 of the resort’s 287 rooms dedicated as Family Suites, the  Beach Palace Cancun is an easy choice for families. Now consider that 20 of those suites come with three hours of nanny service, and it becomes one of our favorite all inclusive Mexico resorts for families! The Beach Palace Cancun also features a kids’ club and complimentary shuttle service to the nearby water park, not to mention a wide expanse of beach and beautiful pool.

9. Moon Palace – Cancun

One of three connected properties, the Moon Palace Cancun connects to the Nizuc and Grand Moon resorts with shared programming, dining and amenities, meaning more bang for your buck when staying in Cancun. The resort features nine swimming pools, a kids’ club, a teens’ club, extra amenities for families, family suites with in-room video game systems and kids’ bath amenities, kids’ menus and more—all right on the beach and within minutes of Cancun International Airport.

10. The Royal Haciendas – Playa del Carmen

The Royal Haciendas is separated in two halves, with many of the amenities doubled—which means guests don’t have to walk far for restaurants and pools. Plus, the resort never feels crowded. The family rooms can comfortably fit groups of three to six and contain family dining areas and balconies, many with gorgeous views of the ocean. There are so many family activities on offer at The Royal Haciendas, from the dedicated kids’ and teen clubs, to yoga and diving. There’s a fully stocked mini supermarket onsite for necessities, and there’s a good selection of quality restaurants. The hotel owners go out of their way to upkeep the surroundings at this resort, and vacationers will discover the real jewel of the trip to The Royal Haciendas is the incredible beachfront with six pools in which to swim.

11. AZUL Beach Resort – Riviera Maya

AZUL Beach Resort is one of the many Karisma Hotels and Resorts properties dotting the Mexican Riviera, but this one is our favorite. The smallest and quietest of the bunch, AZUL Beach feels like an oversized spa, yet welcomes families with open arms. We especially love the resort’s Azulitos Kids program, which features interactive and exciting activities for everyone from toddlers to preteens.

12. Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa – Tulum

Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa provides something for every age group, from kids’ clubs and an ocean trampoline for youngsters (OK, maybe adults too) and a lovely spa and cocktail-making classes for parents. Of course, there’s a plethora of activities for the whole family to enjoy together, such as water sports, swimming pools, dance lessons and themed dinners. The resort offers a wide array of accommodations, including an adults-only section—we’re looking at you, grandparents.

13. Seadust Cancun Family Resort – Cancun

Seadust Cancun Family Resort is a paradise for families, with ziplining, rock climbing, pools, a water park and of course, a pretty stretch of beach—all covered in nightly rates. Water sports, diving excursions, an expansive fitness center, a spa, and a waterpark for kids are also offered at this all inclusive Mexico family resort, formerly the Great Parnassus Family Resort.

14. Club Med Cancun Yucatan – Cancun

One of the first names in family-friendly, all-inclusive fun, Club Med Cancun Yucatan always has families in mind. The luxury resort offers oceanfront Family Suites, a playground, fantastic kids’ clubs for various age groups, water sports, a lounge for nightly entertainment and seven gourmet restaurants. Let’s not forget the flying trapeze, either—a unique, can’t-miss opportunity included in rates!

15. Club Med Ixtapa Pacific – Zihuatanejo

Head to the Pacific coast of Mexico and for an all-inclusive experience your family will love. Club Med Ixtapa Pacific offers age-specific kids’ clubs (ages 4 to 17); two swimming pools; land-based activities including Club Med’s iconic flying trapeze; nightly entertainment, and of course, a pretty beach. End your day with reservations at El Encanto in one of their newly refurbished lounges. This dining experience offers gorgeous atmosphere for parents, a Baby Zone to prepare younger children’s meals, and access to high chairs for the little ones.

Editor’s Note: Club Med Ixtapa Pacific is closed until December 2021, however booking for trips after December is currently available.

16. Binniguenda All Inclusive – Huatulco

Looking for a  unique all-inclusive family vacation in Mexico, perhaps somewhere less popular than Cancun? Consider a stay at the Binniguenda All Inclusive in Huatulco. This intimate resort offers an outdoor pool and kiddie pool, kids’ club and playground, as well as a sports court and nightly entertainment. The resort is a short walk from the beach and city center, offering guests the best of both worlds.

17. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos – Los Cabos

The oceanfront  Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos offers four pools (including an adults-only pool and an infinity pool), a water park, kids’ club for ages 4 to 12, live entertainment, and seven restaurants from which to choose. Families love the modern, spacious suites, some of which have swim-out features! Hyatt Ziva also has all-inclusive family properties in Puerto Vallarta and Cancun .

18. Hard Rock Riviera Maya – Riviera Maya

If you have music-loving tweens and teens, the luxurious  Hard Rock Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive vacation must. Not only can you request an in-room Fender guitar or Crosley record player with a curated collection of vinyl , but you can also visit the onsite water park, take a dip in a number of swimming pools, or sunbathe on the beach. For an extra fee, enjoy a little family competition at Woodward, the resort’s state-of-the-art sports complex. Bonus: If you book now through October 31, 2021, up to two kids age 4 through 12 stay free (for travel through December 18th, 2022).

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5 Destinations for Family Vacations in Mexico

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Mexico is so chockfull of calendar-worthy vacation spots that it's nearly impossible to run across one that's less than perfect. Some destinations in this colorful country, however, are more suited for families than others.

Navigating a foreign territory with kids in tow is rarely easy. Bustling metropolises like Mexico City are thrilling, but perhaps too chaotic for small children or big families. Luckily, there are a slew of all-inclusive resorts, laid-back beaches, and quaint towns that are rich with culture without all the commotion.

Riviera Maya

The 81-mile strip of coastline that runs along the Yucatan Peninsula between Cancun and Tulum is known as the Riviera Maya. Dotted along the white-sand beach are a number of popular all-inclusive resorts and activities suited for all ages. In the heart of it is Playa del Carmen, a former fishing village-turned-resort town. Highlights of the region include the  Mayan ruins  in Tulum, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, an eco-archaeological theme park called Xcaret, lagoons of colorful fish, and pristine cenotes (natural pools of clear water that are popular for swimming). 

Flying pole dancers soar above the palm trees, beckoning crowds below. Tourists can visit the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve (a UNESCO Heritage Site that is home to sea turtles and hundreds of birds), snorkel at the largest natural aquarium in the world, or journey into the Aktun Chen caves.

Where to Stay

The Azul Beach Resort has a Gourmet Inclusive option that includes beach butlers and rooms to accommodate five or more. Parents are sure to enjoy the programs at the Azulito Kids Club—balloon fights, sandcastle building, treasure hunts, and the like—as much as their little ones. There are kid-friendly pools, on-site Spanish lessons, and kayak rentals, too, all just 20 minutes from Cancun International Airport.

TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon

The Baja California Peninsula occupies 1,247 kilometers of coastline and at the southern tip of it sits Los Cabos . This tourist-friendly municipality encompasses two capes: blissfully quiet San Jose del Cabo and the vibrant Cabo San Lucas. Cabo San Lucas is a mecca for shopping—you'll find embroidered clothes, pewter earrings, and aromatic vanilla extract, among other local delights—and dining. San Jose del Cabo, on the contrary, is best for kicking back and enjoying a sunrise, kayaking, horseback riding, and more.

Playa El Medano, near to downtown Cabo San Lucas, is always alive with music, food stalls, and pick-up volleyball. The whole family can snorkel at the nearby Cabo Pulmo Marine Park or hop aboard the pirate ship-inspired Buccaneer Queen. Los Cabos is famed for whale watching during winter and water sports during summer. Some beaches in this region can be rough, so families should choose a resort with a designated safe spot.

The clientele at Dreams Los Cabos is a diverse mix of families, couples, and golf goers enjoying the surrounding eight championship courses. There's a supervised Explorer's Club for 3- to 12-year-olds and activities surrounding science, nature, and exploration on-site. After enjoying a movie under the stars, kids can even camp on the beach.

Puerto Vallarta

About halfway up the west coast, south of Mazatlan and north of Acapulco, is a historical town wedged between the ocean and mountains along horseshoe-shaped Banderas Bay. Visiting Puerto Vallarta warrants a walk along the cobblestone streets of Viejo Vallarta (Old Town), people watching at the esplanade (known as the Malecón), and dancing to the mariachi bands that play in the palm-shaded plazas. The Baroque-style Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a major tourist attraction, while Playa de Los Muertos is where you'll find local flavor.

There's Mexican fare for all ages on Basilio Badillo (Restaurant Row) and no shortage of water sports—snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, parasailing, and you-name-it—to make it even more fun. Nearby jungle and canopy tours are big family draws here, as are the boat rides to Las Caletas.

The Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is a playground for all age groups. Adults come for the gourmet chefs, yoga classes, and sprawling sports complex; youngsters come for the KidZ Club's extremely popular turtle release program, an experience they're guaranteed not to forget.

Sandro Abitante / EyeEm / Getty Images

Cancun is an easy destination for the countless US travelers who flock to its iconic white-sand beaches year after year. Its accessibility is perhaps why the city has become a major hangout for spring breakers, but rest assured it isn't only a party place. Cancun is powered by its 15-mile, double-waterfront Hotel Zone, which has an abundance of family-friendly activities of its own. There are open-air markets like Coral Negro and Ki-Huic and the eco-park Xcaret with its swimmable underground river. At the southern end, there are the Mayan ruins of El Rey, where colorful peacocks and iguanas by the hundreds laze.

Among Cancun's many kid-friendly, all-inclusive resorts, there's  Club Med Cancun Yucatan at the south end of the Hotel Zone. It's conveniently wedged between three stunning beaches and situated alongside the world's second-largest coral reef. It's also home to a famous circus school and a flying trapeze. There are three kids clubs where everyone from tots to teens can enjoy herbariums, join pastry-making sessions, and more. Families may even bond over bows and arrows at the archery school.

Maria Swärd / Getty Images

For those prioritizing an authentic cultural experience over Mexico's many beaches, this colorful, colonial city is known for its centuries-old Spanish architecture and green mountain vistas. One could simply spend hours strolling the square, dubbed Zocalo, just watching herb vendors, grasshopper merchants, jugglers, and guitarists go about their days. Oaxaca 's museums, galleries, and handicraft stores are sure to keep visitors busy when there isn't a market being held somewhere around the city. Trolley rides to the historical district are a hit for the kids. For an outdoor experience, the gardens and fountains at Paseo Juarez el Llano Park are as entertaining as the merchants who sell books and artwork amidst them.

Adults will love mescal tasting at La Mezcaloteca while foodie families may rather sample the sauces in the so-called Land of the Seven Moles. Tourists can learn Zapotec rug weaving or take a cooking class at a Mexican culinary school. No one should leave without visiting the Zapotec ruins at Monte Albán, where warriors are carved from stones.

The Holiday Inn Express Oaxaca-Centro Historico occupies prime real estate in the historic district and is within walking distance to both the cultural center and Temple de Santo Domingo. The Andador Turistico, where families can peruse craft markets, galleries, museums, and restaurants, is also walkable. Back at the hotel, the kids will be happy to cool down with a dip in the pool.

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7 family-friendly destinations in Mexico (that aren't the Riviera Maya)

Thanks to numerous all-inclusive resorts and near-guaranteed winter sunshine (outside of hurricane season, at least), Mexican vacation hot spots like Cancun , Playa del Carmen and the rest of the Riviera Maya are top choices for families.

But these spots can also be crowded, expensive and devoid of authentic Mexican culture or charm.

If you want to enjoy a more affordable family vacation, infused with local culture, here are some alternative Mexican destinations, ranging from well-known family destinations to under-the-radar towns and resorts. (Don't worry, you'll still find those quintessential vacation perks like beautiful hotels and winter sun.)

Visitors to the popular tourist town of San Miguel de Allende should also hop over to Guanajuato, also a silver mining town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kids, teens and adults will all enjoy exploring the colorful town on foot, especially the famous Callejón del Beso, which is so tiny that young neighbors in love could stretch across their balconies to kiss. When everyone needs a walking break, take the city's funicular up to the Pípila Monument, which offers expansive views of the city down below.

Kids will also love a visit to the mummy museum or a stroll around the Presa de la Olla, a reservoir where families can rent boats and paddle around. Once the sun sets, consider a Callejoneadas tour, where traditional town musicians lead visitors around the city to rhythms of music and dance.

Visitors wanting a mixture of beach, culture and Zapotec and Mazatec ruins to explore should head to the state of Oaxaca in southwestern Mexico. With crystal-clear Pacific waters and gorgeous beaches, but without the crowds, it offers families a more peaceful sun and sand alternative to the Riviera Maya.

Some of the best beaches are located within striking distance of the unpolished resort town of Puerto Escondido. Although some spots have high waves, better suited to surfers than young children, families can still enjoy activities such as releasing baby turtles on the beach at sunset.

Developed in the 1980s with an ecological bent, Huatulco offers more than 35 secluded, forested beaches as well as the Parque Eco-Arqueológico Copalita, where families can visit pre-Hispanic ruins, pyramids and even a cemetery.

If you'd prefer a more urban experience, explore one of the country's gastronomic capitals, the city of Oaxaca, which is known for its delicious chocolate and famed mole sauce.

Baja California

Los Cabos is the main call on the Baja California peninsula, but there's so much more to see — and residents of the southwestern U.S. can even visit by car. About an hour north of Los Cabos is Todos Santos, which attracts visitors looking for rugged, coastal scenery but who want a more bohemian vibe, similar to what Tulum once was to Cancun. Some beaches in Todos Santos have family-friendly surf classes, and many restaurants offer a laid-back, outdoor dining experience where kids can run around while adults enjoy cuisine and cocktails.

Also don't discount Mexico's most famous wine region, Valle de Guadalupe . It's clearly popular with adults, but also surprisingly child friendly. Many wineries are located on farms or estates where kids can pet baby goats or picnic outdoors while parents enjoy wine tasting.

Santiago de Querétaro's pedestrian-friendly streets are perfect for families keen to stroll the city's parks, squares, churches, fountains and large aqueduct. There are even pyramids in El Cerrito, an often overlooked Chupícuaro archaeological site just outside the city center. The Cerro de Las Campanas National Park is located on the city's outskirts, featuring landscaped gardens, landmarks and museums, including mysterious stones that, as legend has it, make bell-like sounds when touched.

Families can really immerse themselves in nature with a bike tour of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, which comprises mountains, valleys, waterfalls and the Estorax River. Or, you might want to consider a family trip to the iconic Peña de Bernal, a massive monolith that is one of Mexico's 13 famous natural wonders.

Lacandon Jungle, Chiapas

In the state of Chicapas, the Lacandon Jungle is one of Mexico's largest rainforests. Extending across the border of Mexico and Guatemala, it's protected as part of the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve. Perfect for adventurous families, the area offers plenty of hiking and camping opportunities, and kids will love spotting monkeys and other wildlife on the trails. A highlight is Las Golondrinas waterfall.

For families that want to delve into some history and culture, there are ancient Mayan ruins to explore off the beaten path like Bonampak, which is known for its intricate, painted murals. Farther north, mysterious, jungle-clad Palenque is one of Mexico's most awe-inspiring archeological sites. Whichever ruins you choose, you will always get the most out of your visit by hiring a guide.

Mazatlán, Sinaloa

If you're looking for a Cancun-style beach vacation but with fewer tourists and at a more affordable price, Mazatlán is a viable alternative. Although the Pacific waters aren't quite as Caribbean crystal clear as that of Cancun, the beaches are less crowded and populated with local families in addition to tourists.

An accessible, family-friendly activity is to take a boat over to Stone Island, where kids can play on deserted beaches that extend for miles. Parents can enjoy an ice-cold beer at a casual village beachfront bar or restaurant. There's also a large, child-friendly aquarium in the city if you need to escape the sun for a while.

Mérida, Yucatan and Campeche

Those who want to enjoy the ease of the Yucatan Peninsula (flying into Cancun from the U.S. is relatively simple, after all) can rent a car at Cancun International Airport (CUN) and head west towards the city of Mérida instead of taking the traditional route south along the Riviera Maya.

With an array of free museums and walking tours, it's easy to learn about Mérida's colonial highlights even if you're on a budget. They include the 16th-century Casa de Montejo estate, filled with period furnishings, as well as the striking cathedral — the oldest in Mexico — built partially from Mayan stone.

The city-state of Campeche unfurls along the southeastern coast. Although it doesn't have beaches, the city is famous for its boardwalk where families can stroll for several miles. Between Mérida and Campeche, visitors can really get out into the wild. There's snorkeling in cenotes (limestone sinkholes), boat tours through swampy mangroves and flamingo colonies in the Petenes-Ría Celestún Natural Park.

• Yucatan Peninsula
• Central Mexico
• Pacific Coast
• Northern Mexico
• Mexican Culture
• Trip Planning

Merida With Kids: 30 Awesome Merida Itinerary Ideas For Families

The city of Mérida is an underrated treasure. Not only is it a beautiful romantic city in Mexico , but it's full of activities for families too! For families looking for a memorable Mexico vacation, these Mérida itinerary ideas with suggestions for Mérida tours are full of fun and family-friendly activities.

Spend a few days, a week, or even a month in Mérida Mexico. There is so much for families to experience in this vibrant Yucatecan city. Whether you're visiting Merida on its own, or part of a bigger Yucatan itinerary , you'll absolutely fall in love with this city, just like we did! Take a look at our suggestions for your Mérida itinerary.

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Table of Contents

Where to stay in Merida

With all the Mérida tours you're doing during your trip, you’ll want to find a comfortable place to sleep for the night. In terms of where to stay in Mérida, the most convenient neighborhood for your Mérida itinerary is Centro, the city’s historic center. 

The main part of Centro is the Plaza Grande, also known as the Zocalo. This area will have plenty of options for boutique hotels in Mérida and luxury hotels in Mérida. The area surrounding Paseo Montejo also has many options for hotels in Mérida. 

The surrounding neighborhoods of the Plaza Grande include: Santa Lucia to the north; Santiago to the northwest; San Juan to the south; San Cristobal to the southeast; and Mejorada to the east. For any of these neighborhoods, you’ll likely find plenty of Airbnb Mérida, Yucatan options for your family.

Here are a few suggestions of boutique hotels in Mérida to book for your Mérida itinerary.

Delfina Boutique Hotel

Fiesta Americana

Merida Santiago Hotel Boutique

Gran Hotel Merida

Use this map to find the perfect lodging for your stay in Merida

Ideas for merida tours and activities for a family-friendly merida itinerary.

When planning for things to do in Mérida to include in your Mérida itinerary, look for Mérida tours that are family-friendly and fun for kids of all ages. Here are some ideas for things to do in Mérida with kids.

Getting to know the city with some Merida city tours

As you first get to Mérida, build in time in your Mérida itinerary to get to know the layout of the city. Here are a few Mérida city tours that you can take with your family.

1. Guided walking tour

If you’re interested in a guided tour, book one of these Mérida city tours for your family:

Guided Walking Tour in Merida

Mike&Duck Walking Tour Merida

2. Centro Trolley Tour with Carnavalita

The Centro Trolley Tour with Carnavalita leaves from Parque Santa Lucia and takes you through the streets of Mérida. Tickets cost 120 pesos for adults and 70 pesos for children.

3. Turibus Merida

For a faster paced tour, book a ride with Turibus Mérida . These open top bus Mérida city tours take you through the many neighborhoods of Mérida. Tickets cost 120 pesos for adults and 50 pesos for kids. You can hop off at any of the various stops along the route to explore, and then hop back on again.

4. Horse-drawn carriage ride

Another option for exploring the Centro neighborhood is to take a horse-drawn carriage ride. You can find carriages along Paseo Montejo. Each 45 minute ride costs 500 pesos.

5. Sunday bike rides along Paseo Montejo

On Sundays morning between 9am and 12pm, take a self-guided bike tour along Paseo Montejo. During this time, one side of Paseo Montejo becomes a bike lane, from Calle 49 up to the Monumento A la Patria. Families can rent bikes by the hour.

Museums and craft markets around Merida

The city of Mérida is full of amazing museums to learn about Mérida history and Mayan culture. Here are some ideas of places to visit, if you want to do some self-guided Mérida tours during your Mérida itinerary.

6. Museum of Anthropology and History

To learn more about Mayan history, head to the Museum of Anthropology and History , located on Calle 43 and Paseo Montejo. The museum is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, from 8am to 5pm. Entrance fee to the museum costs 65 pesos for adults over 12 years old.

7. Montejo 495

Just south of the Museum of Anthropology and History is Montejo 495 , a historic house that is open to the public. Guided tours are available from Thursdays to Sundays, from 9am to 5pm.

8. Mayan Market

Located on Calle 59 between Calle 62 and Calle 60, the Mayan Artisan Market is full of beautiful hand-made crafts made from local Mayan artists. The Mayan Artisan Market doesn’t have official open hours, as it’s open based on the artists’ availability. So it’s helpful to have a back-up plan in case it’s closed on the day you want to visit.

Plazas and parks for families visiting Merida with kids

For families looking for low key activities for their Mérida itinerary, consider visiting these parks and plazas around Mérida.

9. Plaza Grande

The Plaza Grande is the central plaza, located in Mérida’s downtown neighborhood. There are shops and restaurants surrounding the plaza, and the plaza itself has many benches and seats for relaxing and lounging.

10. Zoologico Centenario

After visiting the Plaza Grande, head west to Zoológico Centenario. This free zoo has a small selection of animals on exhibit. There are also small games and rides that families can do.

11. Plaza Las Americas

End your day in Mérida by heading  north to Plaza Las Americas. This park has beautiful statues and sculptures that are stylized renditions of Mayan art.

Practice your Spanish language communication skills with these 22 basic Spanish phrases for travel .

Must-see Merida cenotes

One of the most unique Mérida tours experiences you’ll need to include in your Mérida itinerary is a visit to the Mérida cenotes. These are limestone spring water sink holes that dot the landscape of the Yucatán peninsula.

Some of the cenotes are underground caves, while others are relatively shallow. Many of the best cenotes near Mérida are within less than an hour’s drive from the city.

If you’re looking to do your own cenotes Mérida experience, without doing a formal Mérida cenotes tour, take a visit to one of these cenotes:

12. Cenote Dzonbacal and Cenote X’batun

These two cenotes are relatively off the beaten path. Cenote Dzonbacal is semi-covered by a cave. And Cenote X’batun is surrounded by lush trees and lily pads. The cost to visit the two cenotes is 100 pesos. Both Cenote Dzonbacal and Cenote X’batun are located 30 miles (49km) away from Mérida.

13. Cenote Sambulá

Cenote Sambulá is located 27 miles (44km) west of Mérida in the town of Motul. A very small and underground cenote, Cenote Sambulá is a cheap one to visit. Entrance to the cenote costs 20 pesos.

14. Cenote Xlacah

This cenote is located 17 miles (28km) away from Mérida. The cenote is wide and open, and is adjacent to the Dzibilchaltun archaeological site. 

15. El Corchito

Located to the north of Mérida, just south of the town of Progreso, is El Corchito. This nature reserve is a very family-friendly cenote to visit. There are actually three cenotes at El Corchito, and the depth ranges from 3-7 feet (roughly 1-2 meters). Entrance to El Corchito costs 90 pesos for adults and 35 pesos for kids.

16. Guided cenotes tour from Merida

If you're not in the mood to explore the cenotes on your own and would prefer a guide, here are a few Mérida tours you can book to see cenotes. Transportation is provided with these Merida tours.

Cuzama Cenotes Adventure Day Trip from Merida

Haciendas and Cenotes Cultural and Outdoor Adventure from Merida

Archeological sites to see while in Merida with kids

Visiting Mérida ruins and archaeological sites around Mérida is also an essential part of a Mérida itinerary. There are a few small archaeological sites that are within an hour drive of Mérida. 

If you want to visit Mérida ruins on your own, here are a few that family-friendly archaeological sites to visit:

One of the Mérida ruins that families need to visit during their Mérida itinerary is Uxmal . This site has one of the most representative architectures of the Puuc region. Uxmal is located 52 miles (84km) from Mérida and is open every day from 8am to 5pm. The fee to enter is 418 pesos per person. While visiting Uxmal, be sure to incorporate a visit to ChocoStory as well.

18. Dzibilchaltun

A lesser known, though still as beautiful, archaeological site is Dzibilchaltun . This site is open Mondays through Sundays from 8am to 5pm. The entrance fee is 227 pesos per person. After a walk through the ruins, head over to the nearby Cenote Xlacah for a quick swim.

If you’re in the mood to visit a smaller site, head to Xcambo , located 37 miles (60km) northeast of Mérida. This site is very small, and costs 75 pesos to visit. Xcambo is open to the public every day from 8am to 5pm. There is also a small salt farm nearby where you can buy freshly harvested pink sea salt from Laguna Rosada.

20. Chichen Itza

One of the most famous Mérida ruins is Chichén Itzá . This site is 78 miles (125 km) from Mérida and is open every day from 8am to 5pm. The drive takes up to 2 hours. Entrance fee to Chichén Itzá is 498 pesos. While at Chichén Itzá, be sure to visit nearby cenotes: Sagrado, Xtoloc, and Ik Kil.

21. Ek Balam

Ek Balam is 126 miles (202 km) from Mérida. The drive takes approximately 2-3 hours. Entrance fee to Ek Balam is 413 pesos. The site is open every day from 8am to 5pm. While at Ek Balam, be sure to visit Cenote Xcanche.

22. Guided archeological site tour

While visiting archeological sites on your own is great, you'll learn the most by visiting with a guide. Book one of these Mérida tours to Mayan archaeological sites to get a glimpse of Mérida’s rich Mayan history and heritage.

Chichen Itza, Cenote and magic town of Izamal

Private Tour: Archeological Site Of Uxmal and the Chocolate Museum Day Trip

Ek Balam, Valladolid and Cenote Private Tour

Sample Merida's best restaurants

Yucatecan cuisine is a highlight of Mexican cuisine. And no Mérida itinerary is complete without sampling at least one of the dishes from the many of the best restaurants in Mérida. There are also a number of Mérida tours you can take to get a taste of Yucatecan cuisine.

There are a variety of restaurants to choose from in Mérida that serve Yucatecan cuisine. Many of them are located around the central area of Mérida. During your time in the city, take some time to sample Yucatecan cuisine, and also take the opportunity to practice some Mexican food phrases too.

Here are several of the best restaurants in Mérida to visit as part of your Mérida tours experience.

23. Chaya Maya

Located on Calle 55, between Calle 62 and 60, La Chaya Maya serves a variety of Yucatecan dishes.

24. Museo de la Gastronomía

Located on Calle 62, between Calle 55 and Calle 57 is the Museo de la Gastronomía . This restaurant also serves a sampling of Yucatecan dishes. There is also a small food museum at this restaurant, where families can learn about how many of the Yucatecan dishes are made. If you don’t have enough time in your Mérida itinerary to take any food related Mérida tours, visit the Museo de la Gastronomía for an abridged learning experience.

25. Manjar Blanco

Located on Calle 47, between Calle 60 and Calle 58, Manjar Blanco is best known for its cochinita pibil . This dish is made of pork that has been slow-cooked in an underground pit.

26. Mercado Santiago

This market, located on the corner of Calle 57 and Calle 70. Taqueria La Lupita at Mercado Santiago offers salbutes and panuchos with cochinita pibil or relleno negro , made with slow-cooked turkey stewed in a spiced blend of charred chilies and herbs. You can also eat similar dishes at Panucho Yucateco, also located at Mercado Santiago.

27. Mercado 60

Another family-friendly food court in Mérida is Mercado 60, located on Calle 60, between Calle 51 and Calle 53. Families can find a variety of cuisine besides Yucatecan cuisine. Occasionally, there are also live events and music that happen at Mercado 60. So this is a perfect place to take families for a night out in Mérida.

28. Pueblo Pibil

If you’re looking for a food excursion to build into your Mérida itinerary, head to Pueblo Pibil . Located in the small town of Tixkokob, approximately 15 miles (or 24km) east of Mérida. Pueblo Pibil has a delicious selection of Yucatecan food, such as cochinita pibil , relleno negro , and papadzules , a Mayan dish made with corn tortillas stuffed with hard-boiled egg. Reservations are recommended if you want to eat at Pueblo Pibil.

29. Food tour and cooking class

If you’re looking to get a taste of Mexican street food from a local’s perspective, book this tour:

Mérida Street Food Walking Tour

To dive deeper into Yucatecan cuisine, book this cooking class:

Taste of the Yucatan: Merida Cooking Class and Market Visit

Day trip ideas for Merida with kids

Taking day trips from Mérida is a great way to get to know the Yucatán peninsula better. There are several excursion-related Mérida tours you can incorporate into your Mérida itinerary. 

Here are a few Mérida excursions that you can book:

Private Tour in Izamal Magic Town and the Ancient Mayan City

Private Tour: Sotuta de Peon Hacieda Day Trip

Private Tour to Campeche city from Merida by Yucatan Concierge

If you want to arrange your own Mérida excursions, here are ideas for cities and towns to visit:

30. Progreso

The beach town of Progreso is located north of Mérida. The town is a new cruise ship stop, so there are plenty of shops and restaurants along the boardwalk, known as the malecón.

31. ChocoStory

For families who want to learn about the history of chocolate and the role of cacao in Mayan culture, take a visit to ChocoStory. This outdoor museum is located near the Mérida ruins of Uxmal.

32. Valladolid

Another idea for Mérida excursions is to visit the historic city of Valladolid. This city is about two hours away from Mérida.

33. Celestún

To the west of Mérida is the beach town of Celestún. This town is the gateway to seeing flamingos along the Ria Celestún.

Basic information about Mérida

Before filling up your Mérida itinerary with activities and Mérida tours, take some time to learn some basic information about Mérida. The city of Mérida is located in the Yucatán peninsula in Mexico. Mérida is located about 27 miles (44km) south of the coast, and 188 miles (303 km) west of the city of Cancún. 

Mérida is a historic city, and was built on an ancient Mayan city called T'hó. When the Spanish came, they built walls around the city to exclude themselves from the surrounding Maya. The city of Mérida later became known for its production of henequen, an agave fiber used for making rope.

For families asking themselves, “is Mérida safe?”, rest assured that Mérida is a safe city for families. In fact, it's one of the safest cities in Mexico ! Many of the neighborhoods are easy to walk around. 

With a population of over 890,000 people, and over 1 million in the greater metropolitan area, there are certainly a lot of Mérida activities for families to do. Besides tourism-specific Mérida things to do, travelers to Mérida with kids can also enjoy restaurants, shopping malls, parks, markets, and city-wide activities. 

To learn more about Mérida and what living there is like for foreigners, buy this book by Cassie Pearse:

Moving To Mérida: How to successfully move to Mexico as a family

Click here to read more posts about traveling to the Yucatan Peninsula .

The best time to visit Mérida

The best time to visit Mérida is between the months November to March, when the temperatures range from the high 60s to high 80s degrees Fahrenheit (high teens to low 30s in Celsius). And the hottest months of the year are April to July, with temperatures reaching the high 90s and low 100s degrees Fahrenheit (high 30s in Celsius). 

The rainiest months in Mérida are the months of June to October. Keep these weather patterns in mind as you’re planning what Mérida tours to add to your Mérida itinerary. 

Getting to Mérida

As you’re planning your Merida itinerary, consider the different ways you can get your family to Mérida. The city has an airport called Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport. Airlines that fly into Mérida include Aeroméxico, MAYAir, United Airlines, VivaAerobús, and Volaris. If you’re considering flying from Cancún to Mérida, look at flights offered by MAYAir.

For bus options, travelers can get from Cancún to Mérida via the ADO bus or OCC bus. ADO has more schedule options, and the cost ranges from 375 to 600 pesos (roughly $18.75 to $30 USD). If you’re looking for options for the bus from Mérida to Progreso, the coastal city to the north of Mérida, you’ll need to take Autoprogreso. You’ll find the station for this bus from Mérida to Progreso located in downtown Mérida. 

If you decide to book Mérida tours as part of a day trip or excursion from Cancún, the tour will likely be able to arrange transportation for you.

Getting around Mérida

In order to experience the best of Mérida during your Mérida itinerary, consider renting a car. Mérida is a large city. The city is surrounded by a ring road which spans between 11 and 13 miles (roughly 18-20km) across. 

Although many of the Mérida, Mexico things to do are located in or around Centro, there are still plenty of Mérida tours and activities that take you outside of the central area. If you’re looking to rent a car in Mérida, you can do so through Yucatán Vacations .

Most of the city of Mérida is laid out on a grid. Even numbered streets, known as calles , run north and south. Odd numbered calles run east and west. There are many one-way streets in Mérida, so be sure to check which direction the traffic is going before turning onto a calle .

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Money and costs

When it comes to budgeting for your Mérida itinerary, expect to pay between $185 to $435 USD per day. These daily costs include hotel ($60-$180), food ($35-$55), and car rental ($40-$80). You’ll also want to budget for activities like museum entrance fees, Mérida tours, and fees to archaeological sites and cenotes. These costs generally range between $50 to $120 USD per day.

Mexico uses the peso as their currency. The general exchange rate is around 20 pesos per $1 USD. You’ll be able to pay with credit or debit card for many of the things to do in Mérida, Mexico. But Mérida, like all places in Mexico, still generally operates on cash. 

There are several banks in Mérida with ATMs where you can withdraw money. The best banks in Mérida that have the lowest withdrawal fees are Santander (as long as you decline the bank conversion) and Banorte. 

Get a handle on your Mexico travel budget by reading some helpful budgeting tips here.

Making the most of your family’s Merida itinerary

Families have an abundance of options for Mérida tours to incorporate into the Mérida itinerary. From walking through historic streets to sampling local Yucatecan cuisine, families will have plenty to do while visiting the beautiful city of Mérida.

Have you had a chance to visit Mérida? Head to our Facebook page and send us your pictures of your trip!

If you like visiting historical cities, take a look at this post of things to do with kids in the historical city of San Miguel de Allende .

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Best Kid-Friendly Excursions in Cancun for Families

Posted on July 20, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on July 20, 2023

Looking for the best family-friendly tours in Cancun?

Nestled along Mexico’s stunning Yucatan Peninsula , Cancún beckons travelers with its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and an array of exhilarating excursions for the entire family.

From turquoise waters and lush jungles to ancient Mayan ruins and diverse wildlife, the region features a plethora of kid-friendly adventures that the whole family will enjoy.

In this article, discover the best family-friendly excursions in Cancun . Explore hidden cenotes, snorkel above colorful reefs, kayak through mystical lagoons, and savor the thrill of ziplining through lush forests .

Are you ready to immerse yourself in a world of adventure, enchantment, and discovery? Let’s dive into the riches that await in this tropical paradise and make sure to add a couple of these top-rated excursions to your Cancun itinerary !

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

My Top 3 Picks: Best Kid-Friendly Excursions in Cancun

🥇 Xcaret Day Trip with Night Show

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 ✔ A must-do in Cancun ✔ Activities for all ages ✔ Food and transfer included

🥈 Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves

⭐️Rating: 5/5 ✔ Several must-do activities in one day trip ✔ Lunch & transfer included ✔ Perfect with kids old enough to swim

🥉 ATV Jungle Adventure with Ziplines and Cenote Swim

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 ✔ 3 activities in one day ✔ All-inclusive ✔ Perfect for tweens and teens

Things to Know Before Booking an Excursion in Cancun

• Make sure to check what’s included or not to avoid surprises – for example, on boat tours, the docking fees are usually not included and have to be paid in cash before boarding.
• Check age restrictions and consider your kids’ abilities and likes/dislikes.
• Pack sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and plenty of water and snacks.
• Consider booking a half-day excursion if you’re traveling with younger kids.
• It’s unlikely you’ll be provided with a car seat, so keep that in mind.
• The specified duration is usually for the activities and does not factor in transportation time.

Best Kid-Friendly Tours in Cancun

1 – rio secreto underground river tour.

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 3 to 8 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Embark on an extraordinary family journey into the heart of the Yucatán’s hidden gem – the Rio Secreto Nature Reserve . This half or full-day excursion promises an awe-inspiring adventure that will leave you speechless and create cherished memories for years to come. It’s recommended for children 4 and up .

Descend into the mesmerizing world of Rio Secreto, where you’ll be enchanted by the surreal beauty of crystal caves and ancient underground rivers . Wade and swim through the pristine turquoise waters, surrounded by magnificent formations that glisten like precious gems, transforming your family outing into an extraordinary quest.

“Wonderful! Our tour guide Vicky was so nice and patient with our 9-year-old in the caves. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone who loves adventure.”

– BRITTANY (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Feel the tranquil embrace of the ancient cave, as you explore the secrets it holds within its depths. Your expert guide will narrate captivating stories of the region’s geological history, and the unique ecosystem that thrives within this enchanting subterranean world.

This Rio Secreto Underground River Tour offers the flexibility of choosing your starting point – opt for convenient round-trip transportation from your Cancún hotel, or meet your guide directly at Rio Secreto for added convenience.

For the history enthusiasts in your family, seize the opportunity to enhance your adventure with an optional upgrade that includes a visit to the awe-inspiring Tulum ruins . Walk among the remnants of an ancient civilization, marveling at the magnificent structures perched atop the cliff, overlooking the sparkling Caribbean Sea.

This Rio Secreto Underground River Tour ensures that every family member, regardless of age, will find delight in this mesmerizing journey through the natural wonders of the Yucatán. So, embrace the spirit of exploration and dive into the mystery and beauty of the Rio Secreto Nature Reserve for an experience your family will cherish forever.

2 – Xcaret Day Trip with Night Show and Transportation

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 6 to 12 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Experience the ultimate family adventure with a captivating Xcaret Day Trip , meticulously designed to delight and enchant visitors of all ages. This all-inclusive excursion promises an unforgettable day, brimming with excitement, nature, and culture, culminating in a mesmerizing night show that will leave you spellbound.

From the moment you step foot in Xcaret, you’ll be embraced by the magical ambiance of this natural paradise . Embark on an immersive journey through the wonders of the Yucatán, where lush jungles, pristine cenotes, and ancient Mayan treasures await your exploration.

“Great experience with mother nature, me and the kids loved it. Definitely coming back soon, all the money you spend is worth it!”

– VIVIANA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Throughout the day, your family will have the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear cenotes, encountering vibrant marine life in their natural habitat. Wander through lush botanical gardens , learning about the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this ecological haven.

As the sun sets, the excitement only intensifies with a night show that epitomizes the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. Xcaret’s Mexico Espectacular is a mesmerizing performance , a symphony of color, dance, and music, celebrating the country’s history and traditions. Marvel at folkloric dances, breathtaking aerial performances, and a magnificent display of pyrotechnics that will leave you awestruck.

Convenience is key, as this tour includes transportation , ensuring a stress-free journey from your Cancún hotel to Xcaret and back. The entire family can fully indulge in this enchanting experience without any worries.

A Xcaret Day Trip with Night Show is a celebration of nature, culture, and family togetherness, where everyone can revel in the beauty and magic of this incredible destination. Create cherished memories with your loved ones as you immerse yourselves in the essence of Xcaret’s unparalleled charm from dawn till dusk.

If you have your own mean of transportation, book this one instead.

3 – ATV Jungle Adventure with Ziplines and Cenote Swim

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 4 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Calling all adventure-seeking families ! Brace yourselves for an action-packed day of exhilarating fun as you delve deep into the untamed Yucatan jungle. This ATV Jungle Adventure with Ziplines and Cenote Swim promises an adrenaline-fueled escapade, combining the best of off-road excitement, soaring ziplines, refreshing cenote swims, and a delightful touch of tequila tasting.

“A fun activity for the entire family. Great experience, and friendly staff. This excursion is the perfect opportunity to get away and relax.”

– PATRICIA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Embark on a thrilling 30-minute ATV expedition , navigating through muddy, dusty, and bumpy jungle trails that promise to ignite your senses and leave you craving for more. As you conquer the rugged terrain, feel the rush of excitement and unity that comes with experiencing this adventure as a family.

Next up, prepare to defy gravity as you soar through the treetops on an electrifying 3-zipline circuit. Feel the wind on your face and the thrill of flight as you glide high above the jungle canopy, sharing in the excitement and joy with your loved ones.

Escape the Yucatan’s tropical heat with a refreshing dip into an exotic cenote —a natural limestone sinkhole adorned with emerald waters. Immerse yourselves in the serenity of this unique oasis, surrounded by nature’s magnificence.

But the adventure doesn’t end there! Celebrate the day’s triumphs with a well-deserved tequila tasting, a delightful way to unwind and toast to the unforgettable memories you’ve created together.

Your family’s safety and comfort are a top priority, with all safety equipment provided and round-trip transportation provided from most Cancun area hotels, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable journey.

From older kids to thrill-seeking parents, this excursion is tailored to accommodate everyone’s spirit of adventure. So, embrace the call of the wild and embark on an ATV Jungle Adventure with Ziplines and Cenote Swim , forging everlasting bonds and sharing in the joy of exploring nature’s untamed wonders together.

4 – Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour

⭐️  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 12 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Embark on an unforgettable family expedition to the heart of Mexico’s historical and natural treasures with this Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid Tour . This enlightening full-day journey offers a captivating blend of ancient Mayan wonders, refreshing cenote exploration, and the charming colonial beauty of Valladolid.

“Cenote after the hot day at Chichen Itza was perfect and nice. Teenager approved. Lunch was ok for a buffet. If you have to do one trip outside of the resort area, this is it.”

– JOANNE (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Step back in time as you venture to the iconic Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World . Unravel the secrets of this ancient Mayan city with your knowledgeable guide, as they unveil the mysteries behind the towering pyramids, the grand ball court, and the awe-inspiring astronomical observatory. Your family will be transported to a bygone era, marveling at the advanced architectural achievements of a once-great civilization.

Escape the Yucatan heat with a visit to Cenote Saamal , a natural sinkhole embraced by lush vegetation. Immerse yourselves in the refreshing turquoise waters of this hidden gem, a perfect opportunity for fun, relaxation, and a chance to bond as a family amidst nature’s tranquility.

As the day progresses, journey to Valladolid, a captivating colonial town steeped in history and culture. Stroll through the charming streets adorned with vibrant buildings and quaint shops, creating memories that will linger in your hearts for years to come.

Throughout the tour, your family will be treated to insights about Mexico’s fascinating past and present, enriching your understanding of this incredible land.

Comfort and convenience are assured with round-trip transportation from your Cancun hotel and a buffet-style lunch , allowing you to immerse yourselves in the journey without any worries.

The Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and Valladolid Tour promises an enriching experience that will captivate every member of the family, offering a perfect blend of education, adventure, and natural beauty. Discover the wonders of an ancient civilization, embrace the allure of cenote swimming, and fall in love with the charm of colonial Mexico – all in a single day of exploration and bonding with your loved ones.

For a more convenient option, choose a private tour like this one with close-to-perfect reviews.

5 – Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves

⭐️  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 8 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Embark on an extraordinary family adventure , where history, marine wonders, and mystical cenotes converge to create an unforgettable experience during this Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, and Cenote tour .

While there’s no age restriction, you’ll enjoy this excursion better with kids old enough to swim.

“Our family group — four adults and four kids (age 13, 12, 11, and 9) — had a fabulous time on this tour. Our guide was friendly, energetic, and knowledgeable. We liked all of the stops on the tour (though the kids were very hot at the ruins), but the stand-out for us was the cave/cenote portion, as none of us had ever done anything like that before — what a special experience. Lunch was tasty, snorkeling was fun, and the photos taken by Max were definitely worth the additional cost. Highly recommend!”

– ELIZABETH (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Begin your day by immersing yourselves in the rich heritage of the Tulum Ruins . Perched majestically on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, this ancient Mayan archaeological site will transport your family to a time of kings and warriors. Unravel the intriguing stories behind the ruins as your guide unveils the mysteries of this coastal fortress, providing captivating insights into the Mayan civilization.

Next, dive into the azure waters and explore the vibrant marine life of the nearby reef during a thrilling snorkeling session . Witness the kaleidoscope of colors beneath the surface as tropical fish and vibrant corals dance before your eyes. This underwater world will leave the whole family awestruck, forging unforgettable memories together.

As the adventure continues, prepare to uncover the enigmatic realm of the XTUN Cenote and Caves . Journey into the heart of these mystical limestone formations, where crystal-clear waters beckon you to swim in an otherworldly setting. The sense of wonder and tranquility inside these ancient caverns is unparalleled, offering a truly magical experience for all ages.

Throughout the tour, expert guides will provide informative and engaging commentary, transforming each activity into an educational exploration. Learn about the fascinating underwater ecosystems, the significance of the Tulum Ruins, and the geological wonders of the cenotes, adding depth and meaning to every aspect of the journey.

Your family’s comfort is ensured, with round-trip transportation from your Cancun hotel plus lunch and water , allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in this multifaceted adventure. The Natural Marine Reserve fee of 15 USD per person is not included (bring cash).

The Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, and Cenote tour invites you to dive into the beauty of Mexico’s history, marine treasures, and mystical underworld. This carefully curated experience guarantees an unparalleled day of bonding, learning, and marveling at the wonders that lie above and below the surface, creating cherished memories that will stay with your family forever.

6 – Mexican Cooking Class

Embark on a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the vibrant essence of Mexican cuisine with an immersive Mexican Cooking Class in Cancun. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for your family to discover the artistry and traditional techniques behind preparing a delectable 4-course Mexican menu.

The class is recommended for kids 6 and up .

“Carlos was excellent, took time to answer questions and involved the group of all ages and with different knife skills”

– VICKY (READ MORE REVIEWS )

The culinary journey begins with a visit to a bustling local market , where you’ll be captivated by the colorful array of fresh ingredients. Immerse yourselves in the rich tapestry of Mexican flavors as you select the finest produce, spices, and herbs, learning about their significance in the country’s culinary heritage.

Under the guidance of skilled instructors, your family will then delve into the art of traditional Mexican cooking. Utilizing ancient methods and tools like stone mortars, griddles, and clay pots, you’ll master the building blocks of Mexican cuisine, unlocking the secrets of how to infuse each dish with authentic flavors and textures.

Throughout the class, you’ll have the opportunity for individual instruction, as the group size is thoughtfully limited to ten participants . This ensures that every member of your family receives personalized attention, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the cooking process.

As the class draws to a close, gather around the table and savor the fruits of your labor with a delightful 4-course meal , accompanied by refreshing drinks that complement the flavors of your culinary creations.

To make your experience even more enjoyable, the convenience of pickup and drop-off from your Cancun hotel is included , allowing you to fully indulge in this hands-on cooking adventure without any logistical concerns.

This Mexican Cooking Class is not just about preparing a meal; it’s a celebration of culture, history, and family bonding. As you venture into the heart of Mexico’s flavors, you’ll create lasting memories and gain valuable culinary skills that you can share and cherish together for years to come.

7 – Whale Sharks Tour

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 7 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Dive into the azure depths of the Yucatan Coast and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on this Whale Sharks Tour . Join a small group of fellow adventurers as you set off from Cancun to snorkel alongside majestic Mexican whale sharks – the largest fish in the world. With an expert guide leading the way, prepare to be mesmerized by the marine magnificence that awaits you.

The excursion is recommended for kids aged 5 and up – they need to be comfortable snorkeling (with a life vest).

“Great trip! We had the amazing experience of spotting multiple whale sharks from the boat and then getting the chance to swim alongside one. We also saw dolphins and other marine life from the boat. The tour guide, Omar, was informative, funny and friendly.”

– SAM (READ MORE REVIEWS )

As you glide through the crystalline waters, keep your eyes peeled for an enchanting array of marine life. Witness playful dolphins dancing in the waves, graceful manta rays soaring gracefully beneath the surface, and gentle turtles elegantly gliding through their underwater world. This extraordinary marine ecosystem offers a glimpse into the captivating biodiversity of Mexico’s waters.

The centerpiece of this tour is undoubtedly the awe-inspiring encounter with the gentle giants – the whale sharks. Under the watchful guidance of your knowledgeable guide, snorkel alongside these majestic creatures, and marvel at their immense size and serene grace.

This heartwarming experience offers an opportunity for your family to connect with nature in an unparalleled way, fostering a deep appreciation for these magnificent animals and the need to protect their habitats.

While cruising the waters, enjoy a delectable lunch served on the boat , anchored off the pristine shores of Isla Mujeres – one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Bask in the beauty of your surroundings, savoring the flavors of Mexico while bonding with your loved ones over shared wonder and amazement.

To make your experience seamless and stress-free, complimentary pickup and drop-off services are provided from most Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, and Tulum hotels . This thoughtful touch ensures that your focus remains on the mesmerizing adventure that lies ahead.

Note that the whale season is from mid-May to mid-September and spotting whale sharks during this tour is not guaranteed. An additional $15 dock fee per person needs to be paid in cash.

This Whale Sharks Tour promises an unforgettable family experience, combining excitement, education, and an appreciation for the natural world. Immerse yourselves in the wonder of Mexico’s marine wonders, creating cherished memories that will forever hold a special place in your hearts.

8 – Hidden Cenote Swim, Snorkeling With Sea Turtles, and Beachside Lunch

⭐️  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 4.5 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Embark on a breathtaking journey that immerses your family in the splendors of the Mayan Riviera with this Cenote Swim, Snorkeling With Sea Turtles, and Beachside Lunch Tour . Prepare to be enchanted by the natural beauty and captivating marine life that awaits you at each picturesque destination.

The excursion is recommended for children aged 8 and up.

“Amazing trip and Jared and his fellow guides were super! Friendly and accommodating. The beach lunch and relax was a wonderful end to a great morning. Perfect for couples and families with teens. Would highly recommend”

– BROOKE (READ MORE REVIEWS )

The adventure begins as you unveil the mystery of a Cenote, a remarkable natural sinkhole that reveals crystal-clear waters and awe-inspiring rock formations . Delight in a refreshing and exhilarating swim in these underground pools, surrounded by the ethereal beauty of this unique subterranean world.

Next, venture to the serene beach community of Akumal , renowned for its laidback atmosphere and abundant marine life. With your informative guide by your side, set off on a snorkeling expedition that will introduce you to the treasures that lie beneath the sea’s surface.

Encounter a diverse array of tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs, but the true highlight awaits you – the gentle sea turtles that grace Akumal’s waters with their presence. Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable encounter.

Conclude your day of exploration at Punta Venado Beach Club by Cancun Adventures , an exclusive beach hideaway that offers the perfect setting for relaxation and indulgence. Savor a sumptuous lunch, savoring the flavors of the region, as you bask in the serenity of this tropical paradise.

Throughout the tour, your family’s comfort is ensured, with the guidance and expertise of informative guides providing a seamless experience. From the Cenote to the tranquil waters of Akumal and the beachside retreat, every moment is crafted to offer a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

This Hidden Cenote Swim, Snorkeling With Sea Turtles, and Beachside Lunch tour is an idyllic family escape that celebrates nature’s wonders and the joy of sharing these moments with your loved ones. Allow the beauty of the Mayan Riviera to captivate your senses and create cherished memories that will linger in your hearts forever.

9 – Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure

⭐️  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 3 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Mexico’s Caribbean Sea on an exhilarating Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure . This half-day exploration promises an immersive experience as you delve into three diverse underwater locations, including an ‘ underwater museum ‘ and the Manchones , the area’s largest coral reef. Prepare to be enchanted by the kaleidoscope of marine life that thrives beneath the turquoise waters.

Rated among the top snorkeling tours with hundreds of 5-star reviews , this adventure is suitable for everyone, regardless of experience. All snorkeling gear and comprehensive instructions are provided, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for the entire family. And, there’s no age limit.

“We saw so many fish and the water was perfect. The staff is very professional and super fun! I recommend this tour, they made sure everyone was safe and comfortable.”

– SARA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Your first stop is the awe-inspiring and famous Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA), an artful creation that combines ecological restoration and vibrant sculptures . Immerse yourselves in the beauty of this unique site, where art and nature harmoniously intertwine, creating a surreal and memorable snorkeling experience.

Note that you’re limited in what you can see when snorkeling – if you’re traveling with older kids, diving is the best way to see the museum.

Next, the Manchones awaits, boasting the region’s largest coral reef . As you swim through this underwater paradise, you’ll encounter a plethora of marine life, from colorful tropical fish to graceful sea creatures, surrounded by the stunning living coral formations.

After an invigorating snorkeling adventure, recharge your energies with a fresh seafood lunch at a beach club restaurant . Savor the flavors of the ocean as you relish in the company of your loved ones, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Isla Mujeres.

Throughout the tour, safety and enjoyment are paramount, with expert guides ensuring that every member of your family is well looked after and immersed in the wonders of the marine world.

This Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour offers a chance to create lasting memories, discovering the magic that lies beneath the waves of the Caribbean Sea. Embrace this opportunity to bond with your loved ones amidst Mexico’s marine wonderland, where every moment is an invitation to explore and connect with nature’s marvels.

10 – Private Birdwatching Tour

⭐️  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 6 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Embark on a captivating 6-hour Private Birdwatching Tour , where the mesmerizing world of avian wonders awaits you amidst the lush landscapes of the Yucatan Peninsula. Led by a dedicated bird expert , this exclusive journey promises an unforgettable experience as you encounter a diverse array of migratory and native birds in their natural habitats.

Your day begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in either Cancun or Puerto Morelos, ensuring you make the most of the best time for birdwatching. Settle into a comfortable private tour vehicle with your private party, ready to venture to secluded spots that harbor a rich diversity of birdlife.

“Saw almost 50 species of birds. Our guide’s passion for birds and nature was apparent from the first minute and his knowledge of bird calls, habitat, and sharp eye helped us see many species that would have been hard to find.”

– SAMUEL (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Guided by your expert birder, you’ll be introduced to the fascinating world of these feathered beings, learning to identify and spot a myriad of enchanting species . From the mesmerizing hummingbirds to the vibrant parrots, orioles, and tanagers , each sighting will be a symphony of colors and melodies that will fill your hearts with joy.

As you explore the birdwatching hotspots, your knowledgeable guide will share insightful commentary about the Yucatan Peninsula’s ecosystem, deepening your understanding and appreciation for these avian inhabitants.

Venturing into the Mayan jungle, you’ll find yourself immersed in the serenity of nature, surrounded by a chorus of birdsong and the rustling of leaves. Keep your eyes peeled as your guide points out rare sightings such as the painted bunting, tropical gnatcatcher, cinnamon hummingbird, and Vaux’s swift . With the possibility of spotting up to 90 different bird varieties , each moment holds the potential for a delightful surprise.

Before concluding this enchanting journey, take a moment to refuel with an included snack, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

This Private Birdwatching Tour guarantees personalized attention and a tailored experience for you and your private party. From the early morning call of the birds to the rich knowledge of your expert guide, every detail is carefully curated to offer an unforgettable birdwatching experience. Embrace this opportunity to connect with the feathered inhabitants of the Yucatan Peninsula, creating cherished memories of this magical avian adventure.

11 – Selvatica Adventure Park: Ziplines and Cenote Tour

⭐️  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 4 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Prepare for a day of adrenaline-fueled excitement amidst the lush jungle at Selvatica Adventure Park , where the Ziplines and Cenote Tour promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family .

Get ready to soar like a bird above the treetops, glide through the air on ten exhilarating ziplines of varying heights and distances, and take on unique challenges like the “Superman” zipline, the Aquazip (brace yourself to get soaked), and the Tarzania zipline coaster.

This experience is for kids 8 and up.

“Our family of 4 absolutely loved it. Our tour guide was Brian and he took a great care of us. He was funny, caring and explained all the steps of the tour and the zip line procedure to us. We also swam in a cenote and had a burrito lunch there. We will recommend this tour to all of our friends. Great experience!!!”

– MARINA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

This tropical zipline adventure offers not just thrills but majestic views and a breathtaking bird’s-eye perspective of the surrounding wilderness . As you glide effortlessly from one platform to another, the lush canopy below and the wide expanse of the jungle will unfold before your eyes, leaving you awe-struck by nature’s magnificence.

The fun doesn’t stop there – the adventure leads you further into the heart of the jungle to experience the serene beauty of a private cenote. Take a refreshing dip in this secluded sinkhole, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. The crystal-clear waters offer an idyllic setting to relax and unwind, creating a perfect interlude between ziplining exploits.

This Ziplines and Cenote Tour is designed to be family-friendly and affordable , ensuring that everyone can partake in the thrill of the jungle. It caters to adventure enthusiasts of kids aged 8 and up, promising an experience that fosters unforgettable family bonding.

As your day in nature unfolds, rest assured that lunch is included , allowing you to refuel and recharge amidst the captivating ambiance of the park.

From the moment you arrive until the time you leave, Selvatica Adventure Park will sweep you away on an exhilarating journey through nature’s playground. With ten different zip lines, the allure of a private cenote, and a day filled with laughter and joy, this tour guarantees an adventure-filled escape that will be etched in your family’s hearts forever.

12 – Xel-Há All-Inclusive Day Trip

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length : 8 to 10 hours | 🗿  Check Rates and Availability

Embark on a breathtaking aquatic adventure with the Xel-Há All-Inclusive Day Trip , where a world of natural wonders and unlimited fun awaits your family. Located along the Riviera Maya, Xel-Há is a mesmerizing aquatic paradise that offers an all-inclusive experience, ensuring that your day is filled with excitement and unforgettable memories.

“The float on the river in the mangrove trees was amazing. We had fun jumping off the cliffs. We also thought the water slide and beaches were awesome. You have to do the dolphin experience. It was worth the time and money.”

– ERIC (READ MORE REVIEWS )

As you step into this eco-park wonderland, prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Xel-Há’s crystal-clear lagoons, cenotes, and lush tropical surroundings . Dive into the sparkling waters and discover a vibrant underwater universe, teeming with colorful marine life. Snorkel alongside schools of tropical fish, graceful rays, and even playful dolphins if you choose to participate in one of the park’s optional dolphin encounters.

For thrill-seekers, Xel-Há boasts thrilling water activities , such as cliff-jumping, zip-lining into the water, and inner-tubing along the tranquil river. The natural landscapes provide an inviting playground for adventurers of all ages, offering excitement and joy at every turn.

As an all-inclusive destination, Xel-Há ensures you have everything you need for a day of indulgence. Feast on a wide variety of delectable cuisine and refreshing drinks at the park’s numerous restaurants and bars . From local Mexican dishes to international favorites, the culinary offerings cater to every palate.

The day is yours to create unforgettable memories with your family – lounge under the shade of palm trees, float along the lazy river, or simply relax on the pristine sandy shores. The Xel-Há All-Inclusive Day Trip offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, allowing you to tailor the experience to suit your family’s preferences.

With round-trip transportation provided , you can fully immerse yourselves in the wonders of Xel-Há without any worries. From the moment you arrive until the time you depart, this aquatic paradise promises an unforgettable day of family togetherness and pure delight.

Choose the Xel-Há All-Inclusive Day Trip for an aquatic adventure that will create cherished memories, making it a day to remember for all eternity.

13 – Kayak Adventure at Laguna Nichupté

Experience the enchanting beauty of Laguna Nichupté through the eyes of dedicated and experienced guides with this Kayak Adventure at Laguna Nichupté .

Alfredo and Dany, both certified guides in Natural Protected Areas with CPR/First Aid certifications , are the founders of Conexión Nativa Cancún, a highly-rated kayak business that offers a variety of adventure activities. Together, they are passionate kayakers who consider their love for kayaking as a way of life.

“The lagoon was beautiful and the guide was great. We saw some of the wildlife and enjoyed the sunset.”

– SIMON (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Their intimate knowledge of Laguna Nichupté and its wildlife is second to none. Dany, a wildlife biologist , has been fostering her love for nature and kayaking since her time living in Cancún. With their expertise, they will take you on a kayaking expedition like no other , immersing you in a truly unique experience that showcases the beauty and biodiversity of this mangrove paradise.

Throughout the adventure, you’ll be introduced to the rich wildlife that calls Laguna Nichupté home. As pioneers in this mangrove expedition, they know the best places for birdwatching and provide exceptional wildlife viewings. Prepare to be enchanted by the sight of colorful birds, playful marine life, and the serene beauty of the mangrove ecosystem.

Choose the Kayak Adventure at Laguna Nichupté for an immersive journey that will not only deepen your connection with nature but also create lasting memories of your time in this breathtakingly beautiful location. With Alfredo and Dany as your dedicated guides, you’ll experience the essence of Laguna Nichupté in its purest and most authentic form.

What to Pack for your Kid-Friendly Excursion in Cancun

• Bring sunscreen (biodegradable if you’re going to swim), a cap or hat, and long light clothes that’ll protect you against the sun.
• Pack natural mosquito repellent .
• For any water activity, it’s recommended to have a dry bag to store your valuables.
• Things to keep the kids busy during the transfer.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks, even if included.
• Wear comfortable shoes.
• If your tour includes swimming, make sure to bring a towel and a change of clothes.

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Best places to visit in mexico for 2023-2024.

With year-round warm weather and diverse destinations ranging from metropolitan Mexico City to the sands of Tulum, Mexico boasts vacation spots that appeal to all sorts of visitors. To help you determine which locale is best for you, U.S. News compiled this list of the best places to visit in Mexico by factoring in cultural attractions, food options, beaches, water-based activities and nightlife, along with traveler votes and expert opinions. Vote for your favorite vacation spots below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the  website  for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla mujeres, isla holbox, mexico city, playa del carmen.

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexico experience full of brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes. In this fishing village, shopaholics can buy local handicrafts (think: ceramics and woodcarvings), and foodies can savor fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach. The city's Playa La Ropa serves as the main beach and stands out because of its clean, family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Larga, another excellent beach option, is set slightly outside of town, so it offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to sprawl out. Just off the coast, divers and snorkelers can pick from several dive sites brimming with marine life.

Home to Mexico's most famous waterfront Mayan ruins, Tulum appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. Positioned along a coastal stretch of the Riviera Maya, about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers some of the best hotels in Mexico , ranging from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats to all-inclusive resorts. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on some of the world's most beautiful beaches (try traveler-approved Playa Paraíso or Playa Ruinas), exploring ancient ruins (consider booking a daytrip to nearby Chichén Itzá for a larger-scale site) and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatán Peninsula.

This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships. Travelers love this destination's brilliant blue water and laid-back beaches, plus its abundance of water sports activities. Numerous outfitters and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. While you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book, Cozumel is also a quiet place to learn about Mayan culture. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.

Ixtapa's curved coastline is packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife, giving the Pacific coast city (located just north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe. Playa El Palmar, the main beach, often proves better for sunset strolls and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the strong waves. Still, warm, clear and generally gentle water and coral beds farther offshore make Ixtapa one of the best places for beginner scuba enthusiasts. Anyone interested in the area's history should also explore the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique. 

A great option for a weekend stay or a quick daytrip tour , Isla Mujeres is set off the coast of Cancún and offers beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and coral reefs ready for exploration. In fact, it's one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world thanks to a unique underwater museum and one of the world's largest coral reefs (home to all sorts of colorful fish). See marine life from another perspective on a glass bottom boat. When you want to catch some rays, Playa Norte is the most popular beach, framed by white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees.

Quiet beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and stunning crystal-clear water are some of Isla Holbox's standout attributes. This up-and-coming slice of paradise is perfect for travelers looking to truly get away from it all, thanks to its car-free, off-the-beaten-path location. Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and only 26 miles long. Expect quaint boutique hotels, stretches of white sand beaches (Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two top spots), opportunities for snorkeling and sailing, and more than 100 species of birds, including vibrantly colored flamingoes.

About 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a small beach town known for awesome surfing conditions and scenic stretches of sand. If you've never surfed before, sign up for a lesson from a local to learn. Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding or zip lining, or hop on a relaxing boat tour. After a day of fun in the sun, head into town to check out the local art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty restaurants (Sayulita is a burgeoning foodie destination), which feature everything from cheap eats to fine dining.

Anglers recognize Manzanillo as a world-class deep-sea fishing destination for anyone searching for sailfish and marlin, but many types of travelers will enjoy a trip to this Pacific coast destination, located 170 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. The city's two bays mean there is no shortage of beaches for visitors to swim and sunbathe on: Top spots include Playa la Audiencia and Playa Salagua. Water sports like snorkeling and kayaking are also popular activities to enjoy here. If you have time, visit the small town of Barra de Navidad (about 30 miles northwest) for charming hotels, restaurants and stores along the beach. 

Dreamy white sand , nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts and inexpensive flights from the U.S. make Cancún a go-to spot for spring breakers and vacationers seeking an easy beach getaway. But this city on the Yucatán Peninsula also sits close to lush jungles and tranquil cenotes, making it an excellent option for nature lovers. Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and cheap street food served from various carts in the downtown area. Visiting in fall or winter will ensure you see this city (one of the most-visited spots in Mexico) in its most tranquil light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.

Ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings, busy plazas and colorful homes are everywhere you turn in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Guanajuato, situated about 50 miles west of San Miguel de Allende, is known for its subterranean streets and tunnels, which you can explore on a walking tour or at your own leisure. After admiring the city's cobblestone roadways and charming colonial architecture, grab a souvenir or bite to eat at the bustling Mercado Hidalgo. If you enjoy art, arrive in October when the popular Festival Internacional Cervantino takes place.

As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida's rich culture is visible around every turn. White stone mansions line Paseo de Montejo (the city's main street), while vibrant Sunday markets provide a taste of old-world Mexico. Those looking for Mayan ruins are also in luck; many ancient archaeological sites are in close proximity, including the famed Chichén Itzá just 75 miles east. Meanwhile, museum and art enthusiasts praise El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida, as well as the city's art galleries and local murals. When it comes to lodging, travelers will have their pick of quaint boutique hotels.

The most populous city in Mexico is steeped in history and culture. Mexico City boasts delectable cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at fairly low costs – but if you feel like splurging, you'll find an array of high-end shops along the tree-lined Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood. Must-see attractions in Mexico City include the Zócalo, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chapultepec Castle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And if you want to eat your way through the city, consider signing up for a food tour .

For a vacation packed with authentic character, head to Puebla. This city, which sits about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, is filled with colonial architecture and numerous churches, but its main draws are its stunning Talavera pottery, its historical forts and museums, and its sweet and spicy cuisine. Visitors must try mole poblano (made with numerous ingredients, including chiles, meat, chocolate, cinnamon and garlic) and chiles en nogada (chiles stuffed with beef and served with a walnut sauce and fruit like peaches, apples and pomegranate seeds). When the sun sets, venture to Callejón de los Sapos to listen to live music.

Playa del Carmen boasts an exciting food scene, with eateries dishing out everything from delectable tacos and tostadas to sushi and expertly cooked seafood, plus an even hipper bar culture. What's more, this destination in the Riviera Maya beckons to vacationers with its soft white sand blanketing its beaches and its stunning shoreline views. Visitors can also bike to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit the links at one of the numerous surrounding golf courses. All-inclusive resorts , vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in Playa del Carmen, too, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budgets.

This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis and the Four Seasons), golf courses and charming beaches, such as El Anclote and Playa de Punta Mita. The small resort village of Punta Mita sits on a peninsula in Banderas Bay and most appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere. Those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and surfing will be able to enjoy those activities here as well. If you're visiting between December and March, book a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback or orca whales.

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Puerto Vallarta

Cabo San Lucas

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Guadalajara

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Best Mexico Resorts for Large Families

A fter years of traveling as a Travelocity ambassador and exploring more than a dozen resorts in Mexico, I know quite a bit about Mexico all-inclusive resorts for large family groups. These properties are some of the best in terms of amenities, food, and activities. If you are planning a multi-generational trip to an all-inclusive resort , this is where you should begin. These are the best Mexico resorts for large families or groups (and we’ve included our favorite Mexico group tours too)!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Where to Stay in Mexico with a Group

Best all-inclusive resorts in cancun, finest playa mujeres.

Finest Playa Mujeres is one of the best places for multigenerational vacations in Mexico. Here you will find the perfect balance of family time and alone time. 

Each accommodation option is very spacious and family suites can accommodate 5 people. Large families can spend quality time together with swim-up or private pool suites, which are a fantastic idea for those with older children! 

This resort has 10 pools and a beach as well as an extensive list of activities. The kids can go paddle boarding while grandparents attend a cooking class and everyone can meet back up for a game of water polo. 

Everything is designed with families in mind. Even their spa has kids’ treatments so they don’t feel left out. The kid’s clubs cater to all ages too, though supervision is required for toddlers 0-2 years old. 

You can enjoy fresh fish, tapas, Asian cuisine, and steak in one of the 12 restaurants, there’s even a sweet shop to satisfy your cravings. If you’d like an adult-only breakfast or dinner The Imagine Lounge provides supervised meals for kids!

Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach  

Located right in the heart of the Cancun tourist zone, Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach is an elegant escape from the noise. It’s an ideal location for exploring without the rates of tour guides, and the ferry to Isla Mujeres is a five-minute walk away. 

You won’t need to pay extra for an ocean view, because every room has one. There’s room for everyone to stay together too. Suites can accommodate parties of 2 -10, and the 10-person suite even comes with a private pool. 

There are five restaurants, many with ocean views, so you can sip your morning coffee with waves crashing in the background. You can try several cuisines and foods but authentic Mexican is where you should start. 

There’s plenty for everyone to do inside the hotel too. Coral Kidz Club offers activities for children 3-12 with a tech zone, cooking classes, and a Mexico landscape-themed pool. Adults and older kids can explore the ocean with snorkeling and kayaking, or motorized water sports. And if adults want some away time, don’t miss the Gem Spa, offering over 40,000 square feet of luxurious relaxation.

Hyatt Ziva Cancun  

A must for all family vacations to Mexico is all-inclusive, but Hyatt Ziva takes it one step further. They pride themselves on including premium wines and spirits, room service, and other services you’d expect to pay extra for. 

The largest of the rooms accommodate up to five people and there are separate areas for parties traveling without children. If you are traveling with adult kids you may want to consider the adult-only Turquoize rooms which give access to a rooftop pool and butler service. 

Of the variety of restaurants to serve three meals a day, you can count on the extensive buffet with crowd-pleasers such as pancakes and waffles, and a kids’ area to keep the little ones occupied. 

The property is surrounded by water on three sides, so water sports is one of the most popular activities. But what makes it stand out is the kids club and the teen’s area. The aptly named Moods club is for teens to hang out, make friends and have fun!

*We also recommend the Hyatt Ziva in Los Cabos for its stunning views, gorgeous landscaping, and amazing Kids Club.

Paradisus Cancun

When it comes to the best places for multigenerational vacations in Mexico, Paradisus Cancun will keep everyone happy. There’s a baby club, kids club, teens club, and across the street, there’s a 9-hole golf course which is included in their vacation packages. 

For that extra special touch, you can upgrade to the family concierge for mini bathrobes, milk and cookie turndown, and other child-friendly services. 

Rooms can sleep up to four people, and if they aren’t family-friendly enough for you, offers they run on their site include booking up to two children free of charge. Quick note, if you’re taking kids, don’t book The Reserve package as it’s adults only. 

There are over 10 restaurants and bars to suit all tastes, Latin, Asian, and French, and the decor for each of the restaurants is stunning. They claim to not know what boredom is! You can try your hand at sushi-making, wine-tasting, or a yoga class. The choice is yours!

*We also recommend Hotel Paradisus Los Cabos for its wonderful staff, beautiful property, and awesome restaurants.

Hotel Xcaret

I can’t list the best places for multigenerational vacations in Mexico and not include Hotel Xcaret . If you’ve heard of the famous Xcaret parks in the Riviera Maya, you won’t be surprised that this is an all-fun inclusive resort!

Staying at the hotel gives you access to transport and tickets to all SEVEN parks and several tours. This means there’s plenty for the family to do together, and everything is budgeted for in the hotel cost. We highly recommend the Xenotes experience if you have older kids and teens, they will love it!

It’s an all-suite hotel, meaning the family can stay together. It’s not only the suite, tickets and transport you get when you book. Each stay comes with butler service, and depending on the package, there are spa treatments, pool access, and babysitting services included. 

The hotel is also home to 10 restaurants, one of which is run by Michelin Star chef Carlos Gaytán. Eat your way around the world with dishes from Mexico to Asia.

The Grand at Moon Palace

The Grand at Moon Palace perfectly mixes luxury, families, and romance. Creating the perfect place to unwind with the family, and enjoy some alone time too. 

The property’s game room is unrivaled. There are activities and games for children aged four to 17 years old across two, age-appropriate sections. Bowling makes for a great after-dinner large group activity, or if the adults want to relax with some drinks, the kids can play bumper cars or games in the arcade. 

Of course, you don’t want them inside all the time, so why not hire some bikes and explore or head to the water park?

Suites accommodate between four to six guests depending on the room type, but all are stunning and luxurious. 

The seventeen bars and restaurants are designed to serve everyone’s appetites. Options include outdoors by the pool, dressed up and formal, a quick snack while gaming, and even a night club. You are spoiled for choice here. 

Rosewood Mayakoba

The suites at Rosewood Mayakoba are the perfect place to base family vacations in Mexico. One look at the Coral three-bedroom villa and you can imagine the memories you will make with kids and grandparents, sitting by the private pool, splashing around, and waving at whoever is watching from the floor-to-ceiling windows of this stunning villa. If you’d rather step straight out onto the beach or a plunge pool, there are suites for that too. 

The eight restaurants all have different vibes, from the bright and colorful tiled walls of La Fondita to the alfresco lamp-lit La Ceiba garden, to the luxurious Agave Azul. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to where to eat. Mediterranean, Caribbean, Asian, you name it, even the fussy eaters will find something. 

The kids can be immersed in Mexican culture and education, with Spanish lessons, eco-tours with a marine biologist, and themed nights. There’s a nanny service for nights when parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles might want a night to themselves. 

There’s no need to pack diapers and bottles, the hotel can provide those as well as baby monitors, in-room baby proofing and cribs with linen. It’s all taken care of at Rosewood Mayakoba.

Our favorite group tours in Cancun

Family friendly all-inclusive resorts in cabo, grand velas cabo.

Imagine after a long day, your family all bundled up on a huge comfy bed, watching whatever film takes your fancy, and then you look up and there’s nothing but ocean in front of you. 

At Grand Velas Cabo , every suite has an ocean view, so you don’t even have to pay extra for this experience! In the family suite, you’ll find a mini teepee for play, coloring books, and other child-friendly amenities.

There are plenty of hands-on activities for little ones in the kid’s clubs, where they’ll make piñatas and kites, and play board games. Older children can enjoy the day/night club with karaoke, a non-alcoholic bar, pool and ping pong. 

Adventurous adults can head to Lovers Beach or Lands End in taxi boats or a kayak. Consider taking a sunset cruise of Los Arcos with the entire family, exploring the two towns of San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, or playing golf at one of the local courses.

Grand Velas has eight restaurants to enjoy, seven of which are all-inclusive, so you can try them all. Each has a different cuisine, and an equally dedicated chef who meticulously designs the menu. 

*We also recommend Grand Velas in Puerto Vallarta and Grand Velas Rivera Maya .

Our favorite group tours in Los Cabos

Sailing and Snorkeling cruise – head out for a day of sailing and snorkeling!

Off Road ATV Adventures – prepare to get dirty with this off-road adventure.

Camel Safari – take a camel ride along the beach and enjoy a delicious lunch.

Whale watching dinner cruise – head out whale watching and enjoy dinner while the sun sets.

Zipline adventure – try your hand at the best zip line course in Cabo.

Day trip to Todos Santos – head out of town and see what Todos Santos has to offer.

Where to Stay for a Family Reunion in Puerto Vallarta

Garza blanca preserve puerto vallarta.

If your family loves the outdoors and trying new things, this resort and spa will tick all of your boxes. Check out the extensive list of things to do as there is plenty to do in Puerto Vallarta with all ages .

For kids, there are sandcastle competitions, nature photography, and balloon animal making. As a family, you can try hiking tours, go bird watching and plant trees. And adults can experience wine tasting, play water sports, take cooking classes, and more. 

The suites at Garza Blanca can accommodate up to eight guests, so large families can stay together. They vary from suite to ultra suite which includes the stunning ocean view penthouse. The suites come with a kitchen and dining room so you can choose a self-catering option and enjoy family dinners, taking turns to cook or cooked by your chef if you’re in Oceanview!

When no one feels like cooking, the property has three restaurants: Mexican cuisine, a steakhouse, and a beach/pool grill.

*We would also recommend Garza Blanca Los Cabos for its stunning views and delicious restaurants.

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa

You can never go wrong with the Marriott brand when looking at the best places for large family vacations in Mexico. They want family vacations to be fun and carefree, and here you get that in spades. 

Their restaurants focus mainly on seafood, however, there’s also Japanese teppanyaki if you fancy tricks with your meal. If you’re a football family then you never have to miss a game at the Champions Sports Bar, grab a burger and wings, and watch the game, you may even meet some fellow fans. 

The larger rooms can accommodate two adults and two children. They are bright and airy and decorated in the same blue as the ocean you can see from some of the balconies. If you go for a garden view, expect lush green trees and grass, and you may even spot some wildlife! 

Unlike some hotels that are surrounded by mangroves, the Marriott is close to several local attractions. There’s Galerías Vallarta Mall , Marietas Islands – Wildlife Sanctuary, and Aquaventuras . So if you prefer your own adventures rather than tours, you can explore at your leisure!

Our favorite group tours in Puerto Vallarta

Las Caletas private island – offers snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, kids zone, spa, and more! The perfect day trip from Puerto Vallarta.

Zip line adventure – my kids loved this!

Bean to Bar chocolate workshop – learn about chocolate and make your own!

Las Marietas Eco-Discovery – snorkel, swim, and kayak in this beautiful spot!

Rhythms of the Night show – includes dinner and sunset cruise.

Mexico with family and friends never disappoints! These properties in Mexico are sure to leave everyone with fabulous memories of an awesome family vacation!

The post Best Mexico Resorts for Large Families appeared first on Groups Are A Trip .

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• April 12, 2024   •   34:23 How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam
• April 11, 2024   •   28:39 The Staggering Success of Trump’s Trial Delay Tactics
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How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam

A mexican drug cartel is targeting seniors and their timeshares..

Hosted by Katrin Bennhold

Produced by Asthaa Chaturvedi and Will Reid

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Warning: this episode contains descriptions of violence.

A massive scam targeting older Americans who own timeshare properties has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars sent to Mexico.

Maria Abi-Habib, an investigative correspondent for The Times, tells the story of a victim who lost everything, and of the criminal group making the scam calls — Jalisco New Generation, one of Mexico’s most violent cartels.

On today’s episode

Maria Abi-Habib , an investigative correspondent for The New York Times based in Mexico City.

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How a brutal Mexican drug cartel came to target seniors and their timeshares .

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Katrin Bennhold is the Berlin bureau chief. A former Nieman fellow at Harvard University, she previously reported from London and Paris, covering a range of topics from the rise of populism to gender. More about Katrin Bennhold

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Man with dementia disappears after wandering off from family while vacationing in Mexico

CHARLESTON, S.C. ( WCSC /Gray News) - A 66-year-old South Carolina man who suffers from dementia has been missing for several days while vacationing in Mexico, leaving the family pleading for answers.

Edmond Bradley Solomon III celebrated his birthday at the beginning of the seven-day cruise to Mexico, WCSC reported.

According to Solomon’s family, he has frontotemporal dementia, which is an earlier onset dementia that causes personal, behavioral and emotional changes in one’s personality.

“My sister knew it would probably be the last vacation that she was able to take with Brad based on his deterioration over the last couple of months,” Ashley Hyer, Solomon’s sister-in-law told WCSC.

The group was shopping along the terminal area docked in Cozumel when he wandered off.

Solomon hasn’t been seen since April 3, according to a GoFundMe page.

However, there have only been a few sightings of Solomon, one being at a grocery store. The owner of the store said he attempted to approach Solomon, but he ran away.

Hyer said Solomon did have a tracker, but only one that works with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which stopped pinging about two hours into the search.

“That could’ve made all the difference in the world if we had just known,” she said.

FBI Columbia spokesman Kevin Wheeler says they are aware of the missing person report and have been in contact with Mexican authorities, but are unable to comment further.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department released the following statement on Tuesday:

“The Department of State has no higher priority than the welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad.

We are aware of reports of a missing U.S. citizen in Merida, Mexico.

When a U.S. citizen is missing, we work closely with local authorities as they carry out their search efforts, and we share information with families however we can.

We are monitoring the situation and seeking additional information, and we stand ready to provide consular assistance. We have no further comment at this time.”

So far, Royal Caribbean has also not responded for comment.

Copyright 2024 WCSC via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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When is Eid al-Fitr 2024 and how is it celebrated?

The three-day festival celebrates the completion of the fasting month of Ramadan by Muslims across the world.

As a new moon was not sighted on Monday evening after Maghrib prayers, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries will fast one more day, completing 30 days of Ramadan. The first day of Eid will then be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10.

The first day of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar.

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Lunar months last between 29 and 30 days so Muslims usually have to wait until the night before Eid to verify its date.

Other countries follow independent sightings.

When the sighting has been verified, Eid is declared on television, radio stations and at mosques.

How do Muslims celebrate Eid?

Traditionally, Eid is celebrated for three days as an official holiday in Muslim-majority countries. However, the number of holiday days varies by country.

Muslims begin Eid day celebrations by partaking in a prayer service that takes place shortly after dawn, followed by a short sermon.

On their way to the prayer, which is traditionally held in an open area, Muslims recite takbeerat, praising God by saying “Allahu Akbar”, meaning “God is great”.

It is customary to eat something sweet before the prayer, such as date -filled biscuits known as maamoul in the Middle East. This particular festival is known as the “sweet” Eid – and the distribution of sweets is common across the Muslim world.

Muslims usually spend the day visiting relatives and neighbours and accepting sweets as they move around from house to house.

Each country has traditional desserts and sweets that are prepared before Eid or on the morning of the first day.

Children, dressed in new clothes, are offered gifts and money to celebrate the joyous occasion.

Girls and women in many countries decorate their hands with henna. The celebration for Eid begins the night before as women gather in neighbourhoods and large family gatherings for the application of henna.

In some countries, families visit graveyards to offer their respects to departed family members right after the morning prayers.

It is common for Muslim-majority countries to decorate their cities with lights and hold festivities to commemorate the end of the fasting month.

Eid amid the onslaught in Gaza

For some 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza this Eid, this will be the first Muslim religious holiday after more than 33,000 people have been killed in Israeli attacks. With little food aid, and very limited water, Gaza’s Eid al-Fitr will be mired in destruction amid the continuing attacks.

What are common Eid greetings?

The most popular greeting is “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Eid sa’id” (Happy Eid). Eid greetings also vary depending on the country and language.

The video below shows how people say Eid Mubarak in different languages around the world.

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A guide to LGBTQ+ travel in Latin America

With museums, culture, nightlife, family outings and safe spaces to  relax in, Latin America has much to offer LGBTQ+ travellers. 

Latin America is a vast region of over 656 million inhabitants. Stretching across two continents, it’s a storied location where people and cultures from Europe, Africa, the Americas and elsewhere mixed and settled. Spanish and Portuguese, vestiges of two rival superpowers, are the dominant languages. The ancient empires, Aztec, Incan, Mayan and others, still make their presence known — from the archaeological highlights of museums to the living spectacles of carnivals, parades and religious celebrations, like the macabre Day of the Dead and the continued worship of goddesses like Yemanjá brought from the West African coast.

The region’s powerhouse cities are where LGBTQ+ nightlife, culture and political progress are most visible, from the Beaux-Arts streets of Buenos Aires to the sun-kissed Rio de Janeiro, with its spectacular natural setting of mountains and beaches. Indeed, it’s these sandy stretches many tourists come to Latin America for, whether they’re seeking the golden shores of the Caribbean coast or the dramatic, mountainous landscapes that butt against the Pacific, creating conditions that every surfer dreams of.

One of the most thrilling of all Latin American destinations, glamorous Buenos Aires should be the starting point of every Argentine adventure. It’s also one of the world’s leading countries on LGBTQ+ human rights issues — it passed a national same-sex marriage equality law in 2010, five years before the US and three before the UK. Peppered with French Beaux-Arts architecture, Buenos Aires is crisscrossed by grand boulevards and marble-embellished monuments. Visitors will find hundreds of bookshops to explore, the most famous of which, El Ateneo Grand Splendid, is housed in a former theatre. There are cafes, museums and a glittering opera house. To walk along any street, especially the Nueve de Julio, is a dizzying experience.

Where to go at night in Argentina? Buenos Aires is home to some of the best LGBTQ+ nightlife on the continent, and it’s not for the faint hearted. Things don’t get going until past midnight, with locals out long after sunrise. Club Amerika in the Almagro neighbourhood is the city’s largest nightclub and a centre point of LGBTQ+ nightlife. El Lugar Gay is a small, men-only budget hotel located in the historic San Telmo neighbourhood, an area known for its Sunday antiques fair and tango performances.

Where to see Argentinian culture? Though a controversial figure in Argentina, former First Lady Eva Perón, better known as Evita, remains one of the country’s most well-known figures — a Dior-clad gay icon to many LGBTQ+ locals, with stars like Madonna, Patti LuPone and Elaine Paige having portrayed her. Her myth, mystery, legend and wardrobe are explored at Museo Evita in the elegant Palermo neighbourhood.

Where to go with family in Argentina? This nightlife-oriented city has plenty for queer family gaycations, from watching the famous ‘cat ladies’ take care of felines in Recoleta Cemetery to the Abasto neighbourhood’s Museo de los Niños , with educational science activities for children. Argentina’s Patagonian region makes an excellent option for skiing or hiking trips in Bariloche. Those of drinking age will enjoy Mendoza, an important wine region, where the Malbec grape reigns supreme.

Few places in Latin America rival the powerhouse experience that is Brazil. One of the largest countries in the world, this South American nation pulsates with a landscape as diverse as its people, with thousands of miles of beachfront, metropolitan cities, mountains and the Amazon rainforest, to name just a few points of interest. With so much to see and do, it’s hard to choose what to start with first in Brazil, and many LGBTQ+ travellers make repeat visits.

Where to go at night in Brazil? Rio is an effervescent metropolis and former capital where neighbourhoods jostle between mountains and beaches, the giant art deco statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado mountain rising above it all. The highlight of the year is Carnival — the largest such celebration in the world — in February or March, depending on the Easter calendar. It’s all about the beaches here and two are main centres of LGBTQ+ life — Ipanema, especially its Rua Farme de Amoedo gay beach, and the densely urban Copacabana beach, where locals and visitors alike pose for sunset photos with the curvaceous Sugarloaf Mountain in the background. A Brazilian cultural highlight is in Rio’s Flamengo Park, which is home to the Carmen Miranda Museum , celebrating the actress whose oversized fruit-covered headdresses inspired many a drag queen.  

Where to explore in Brazil? Visitors will find urban charm in São Paulo, with its contrasting wealthy and impoverished neighbourhoods operating within walking distance of each other. Every May, it hosts a massive gay pride parade with millions of spectators lining Avenida Paulista. Salvador, in the northeastern state of Bahia, is a hotspot for Afro-Brazilian culture. Statues of Yemanjá, mother of orishas (divine spirits) in the Yoruba religion, are everywhere — a nod to the area’s past. A visit to Pelourinho is a highlight for many, its cobblestone streets lined with colourful buildings stretching to stunning vistas.

Where to go with family in Brazil? For LGBTQ+ family travellers with kids, no trip to Brazil is complete without visiting Iguazú Falls, a series of waterfalls in the country’s south where it edges against Argentina and Paraguay. Several times larger than their North American counterpart, legend says Eleanor Roosevelt exclaimed, “Poor Niagara!” upon seeing them.

Visitors to Mexico should start in its glorious capital, filled wih museums and cultural venues like Palacio de Bellas Artes, with its Beaux Arts facade and art deco interior, or the fascinating National Anthropology Museum. Once the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, the city is centred around the massive Zócalo, a square where Spanish buildings were constructed over ancient temples and pyramids.

Where to see the best of Mexican nightlife? Only in Zona Rosa — literally the Pink Zone — can travellers find such a dense concentration of LGBTQ+ nightlife. Near the Angel of Independence monument along Avenida de la Reforma, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and other venues popular with LGBTQ+ tourists and locals abound, along with some of the city’s best hotels.

Where to see Mexican culture? The Frida Kahlo Museum is located in the bohemian Colonia del Carmen neighbourhood. Known as the Casa Azul, this tribute to the bisexual artist has been open to the public since the late 1950s.

Where to explore nature in Mexico? Mexico’s coastlines offer a wide array of beaches to explore. Cancun and the Riviera Maya on the Yucatán peninsula are among its jewels and the source of much of the country’s income from tourism. Storied Puerto Vallarta, one of Latin America’s most popular LGBTQ+ beach destinations, overlooks the Pacific.

Peru is geographically diverse, with beaches, mountains and the western stretches of the Amazon jungle, making it a must-visit spot for nature-seeking travellers.

Where to see the best of Peruvian nightlife? Peru’s capital, Lima, is a gastronomic paradise, with native cuisine like ceviche, a raw fish and citrus dish, and drinks such as the pisco sour a popular choice. The country’s large and influential Japanese population has also impacted the culture and the cuisine. The main LGBTQ+ area is garden-like district Miraflores, the name of which means ‘look at the flowers’. Sadly, two prominent gay nightlife spots, Lola Bar and Discoteca Legendaris, have recently closed; luckily, a number of new joints are in the works. However, ValeTodo DownTown , a bar central to the strong gay residential presence here, remains open and thriving.

Where to go on an outdoor adventure in Peru? One of the reasons many visitors come to Peru is to trace the country’s ancient Incan roots. Two of the world’s most coveted bucket-list destinations are in Peru: the ancient Andean temple complex Machu Picchu with its stunning views, and Cusco, which was a capital of the Incan Empire. Visitors will come across colonial buildings representing the Spanish conquest built on top of ancient temples, the periods of architecture instantly recognisable via differing stonework. A rickety train traverses a stunning mountain pass to connect Cusco and Machu Pichu, allowing for day trips. More adventurous travellers can hike the various Inca Trails over several days, finding lesser-known historic ruins along the way.

While certain parts of Latin America might be known for a degree of brashness, travellers will   find a more reserved destination when they visit Chile. Santiago, the capital, stretches along the city’s main thoroughfare, Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins, and sits either side of the Mapocho River.

What to do at nighttime in Chile? The gay heart of Santiago is in the quaint district Barrio Bellavista, much of which dates to the 1920s. Chile is a former Spanish colony, and these influences can be seen in much of the area’s architecture, from the terracotta shingles to the white stucco walls. At night, the district comes alive with music and partying, as locals and visitors head to clubs, restaurants and bars, many with live music. The neighbourhood is dominated by San Cristóbal Hill and its statue of the Virgin Mary, a symbol of the city, connected by a not-always-functioning funicular.

Where to see Chilean culture? Argentina’s Mendoza on the other side of the Andes might be South America’s better known wine region, but Chile has one of the continent’s largest. What makes it even more ideal for visitors to the capital is that there’s no need to fly to a second destination. The wine region surrounds Santiago, most of it within an hour-and-a half drive by car or organised tour to Casablanca Valley, the Maipo region or the Central Valley, where wineries like Concha y Toro create magical elixirs from Carménère, Cabernet Sauvignon and other grapes.

Related Topics

• LGBT-FRIENDLY TRAVEL
• FAIRS AND CARNIVALS
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• FAMILY TRAVEL

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‘A mystical experience’: millions watch total solar eclipse sweep across North America

Almost 32 million people in the path of totality as moon’s shadow crossed the Mexico-Texas border and then traversed 15 states

• If you missed the total solar eclipse just wait … until 2044
• Total solar eclipse over Mexico, US and Canada – in pictures

The ethereal spectacle of a total solar eclipse swept across North America on Monday afternoon, giving tens millions of people in Mexico, the US and Canada the chance to witness a rare and dazzling celestial show .

Almost 32 million people were in the path of totality as the moon’s shadow crossed the Mexico-Texas border at lunchtime and traversed 15 states over the next hour and a half, although many, especially in the south and midwest, were denied a clear view by low clouds and rain.

Those who did get to experience it were treated to a remarkable and surprisingly emotional display that won’t be seen again in the US until 2044 . Cities were plunged into sudden darkness, chilled by a precipitous drop in temperature, and felt the stillness of twilight in the middle of the day.

“There’s something very mysterious about a total solar eclipse, when literally day turns to night, animals start to behave differently, and we see changes in the Earth’s atmosphere,” Pam Melroy, the deputy head of Nasa, and a retired astronaut who has degrees in astronomy and planetary sciences, told CNN.

“It’s a mystical, mysterious experience. And I love the thought that millions of Americans stood together today, looking up into the sky.”

Tourism officials believe at least 4 to 5 million traveled from other parts of the US to witness the show, making it the country’s biggest travel day of the year and bringing in an estimated $1.5bn economic boost .

Many were up before dawn to stake their place, and cities from Texas to Maine, as well as others outside the path of totality, hosted watch parties and gave away free eclipse glasses.

Joe Biden posted a message from the White House, calling the eclipse an event “worth marveling at”, and urging Americans to use safety glasses to look at the sun.

The Dallas-Fort Worth region was the largest metropolitan area on the path of totality, making north Texas a major destination and creating potential headaches for locals. The cloudy weather left some scrambling at the last minute to change plans and head for clearer skies, but for much of north Texas totality itself was clear.

Ignas Barauskas traveled to Texas from Lithuania, arriving at midnight, just hours before the eclipse began.

“Better than all expectations,” he told the Guardian, after the clouds parted and Dallas experienced almost four minutes of blackout.

“Everyone was screaming, like a concert,” he added.

For many, the experience proved costly, with surging air fares and exorbitant hotel rates. Others found long-held bookings canceled and resold to new customers at up to three times their original prices.

Such was the interest in the eclipse that numerous states and municipalities declared states of emergency in expectation of massive crowds. The entire event, however, appears to have passed off peacefully, amid warnings from US intelligence of a rise in the terror threat , particularly for large gatherings, following last month’s deadly attack on a Moscow concert hall .

Nasa live streamed the event for those who could not see the eclipse directly or lived outside the path of totality. Almost everywhere in North America experienced a partial eclipse of varying percentages depending on the proximity to its center track.

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The agency also conducted science experiments. It fired rockets into the moon’s shadow to study how Earth’s upper atmosphere is affected by the momentary dimming of sunlight and the possible impact on communications systems, and it harnessed an army of citizen volunteers to capture images of the solar corona during totality, then help analyze them afterwards.

Meanwhile, at several zoos, researchers joined public volunteers to watch the behavior of animals . During previous eclipses, giraffes ran around frantically, tortoises started rutting and gibbons sang and barked, although television images of zebras at Dallas zoo on Monday showed them largely unimpressed by the event.

The most recent total solar eclipse in the US was in 2017 , but an interval of only seven years is unusual. This one had a longer track, and a wider shadow of totality than seven years ago because the moon was closer to Earth.

The time of totality in any given location was also longer. In 2017, the longest duration anywhere was two minutes and 42 seconds. Today it was four minutes and 28 seconds in Torreón, Mexico , while almost every place along the path experienced between three and a half to four minutes of totality, even if those below could not always see the eclipse.

The next total solar eclipse anywhere in the world is 12 August 2026 , covering large areas of the northern hemisphere, with totality limited to Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small area of Portugal. The UK will see a partial eclipse of more than 90%.

Residents of the mainland US must wait until 22 August 2044 , when a total eclipse will be seen in North and South Dakota and Montana, plus northern Canada.

Following that, it is almost exactly one year until the next coast-to-coast total eclipse in the US, on 12 August 2045 , spanning California to Florida.

Additional reporting by Charlie Scudder

• Solar eclipses

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