Quintana Roo has many popular and highly visited destinations, but if quiet and not-so-crowded places are what you are looking for, this article is for you. Beyond wild parties, the Riviera Maya is also home to some little towns to get in contact with nature that you must consider on your next trip, and here are some of the perfect options:
Bacalar
Bacalar is a little town really close to Chetumal, famous for its Lagoon of the Seven Colors that you can explore getting one of the different tours in a boat, kayak, or even paddle surf that locals offer. Just check out that your tour includes different attractions to visit so you don’t miss anything.
The town is very quiet with not so many visitors during the day, which makes it the perfect place to take a rest and just enjoy the sunrise and/or sunset. It is totally worth a visit, and a different option to connect with nature. There are different restaurants on the coast so it won’t be difficult to find a great option, with most of them having private access to the lagoon in case you want to swim a little.
From Cancun, you can take a bus or van to get there, but getting private Cancun transportation is also a great option to avoid worries such as taking care of a rented car.
Mahahual
Mahahual is another top destination close to the capital city, not so popular as Playa del Carmen but with different attractions perfect for those looking for a relaxed place. Far from the noisy nightclubs in Cancun, or large hotel complexes, this little town is ideal to get real contact with nature.
This little town is famous for its large barrier reef, which makes it perfect for snorkeling and diving lovers. Do not miss taking a long walk through the Malecon that is full of local craft stores and delicious restaurants. Mahahual is getting attention thanks to the dozen photos shared by tourists in the handmade hammocks placed along the beach in the now-famous swing route.
Just like Bacalar, you can easily get to Mahahual from Cancun or the airport by booking a Cancun airport shuttle, but if you prefer you can first reach Chetumal and then take a taxi or van to the village.
Tulum
Unlike the first two destinations, Tulum is a very famous small town located approximately 132 km from the city of Cancun with an incredible hippie vibe, turquoise blue beaches, and infinite cenotes.
Multicultural restaurants, incredible and fun nightlife are also part of the charm of the city that you can easily visit on a bike. Tulum is the host of different music festivals during the year, so do a little research to know if one is taking place during your visit. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the Sian Ka’an Reserve or be part of a yoga class.
Even though it is a popular destination in Quintana Roo, buses only have two departure times from the airport each day and taxis are pretty expensive, so if getting private transportation from Cancun to Tulum is in your possibilities, I highly recommended it.
