Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Vacations

Gotta love those mystical Mayans. They continue to be one of the most awe-inspiring cultures from the ancient world. One of the most iconic examples of these mysterious people is Tulum, a pre-Columbian city that was the major port for Coba between the 13th and 15th centuries, where one of the top trades was, of all things, obsidian–volcanic glass. Grab your walking shoes and get ready to meander around 60 well-preserved structures that are cloistered behind a big stone wall. After you’ve learned about all the enigmatic deities in their culture, marveled at how they constructed such an intricate, sturdy maze, take the staircase down to the sugar-white, sandy beach hugged by turquoise waves and cool off.

More Mayan goodness can be found at these spots. Back in the day (and we’re talking waaay back), Xcaret was once a Mayan port for departures to Cozumel. Since then, it’s evolved into a one-stop shop for exploring the ecology and culture of this unique area with 40 natural attractions: a butterfly pavilion, a beautiful coral reef aquarium, along with a funky cone-shaped Mayan cemetery. Afterwards, you can chill at the beach, swim with dolphins–or even sharks. Xel-ha, known as “the place where water is born,” is an incredible natural aquarium where the ocean and freshwater currents combine to create springs and underground rivers. While it may not be the exact birthplace of water, you'll seriously dig snorkeling and splashing through this rockin’ ecosystem of exotic birds, marine life and other animals. Don’t miss Sea Trek, where with the help of a specialized helmet, you can walk (and breathe) under water on the seabed–without any previous training–and ogle all the ocean eye candy.

These are not just ordinary turtles. They’re endangered green sea turtles. They can weigh up to 700 pounds and live until they’re 80. Their favorite thing to eat is sea grass and it’s found all over the bottom of the ocean floor. And they spend a good long time chowing down, so you can swim up and get a good look at them. Other passersby, like barracudas and sting rays, can be seen after you’ve taken the plunge, so bring your underwater camera and snag some fabulous photos.

Rappel into a beautiful cenote to snorkel along the longest underground river system in the Yucatan Peninsula, fly over the canopy on thrilling zip lines, or take the helm of a 4x4 Mercedes Benz truck to see the jungle from the ground. A ceremony led by a local shaman and a buffet lunch round out this complete adventure in the Mayan jungle.

Included:

• Round-trip transportation in an a/c vehicle with capacity up to 12 passengers
• Ride in a 4x4 all-terrain vehicle
• Bilingual tour guide
• First aid trained staff
• Full snorkel and zip-line gear
• Towel
• Bottled water
• Fruit snacks and lunch buffet of home-made Yucatan food

Not Included:

• Alcoholic drinks
• Photographs
• Tips

Don't Forget to Bring:

• Swimwear
• Comfortable clothing
• Extra set of clothing
• Hat
• Sport shoes
• Boots or ankle strap sandals
• Cash for souvenirs or photographs
• Biodegradable insect repellent

Hours:
Monday-Saturday, 8am-5pm depending on your hotel. The duration is 4 hours.

Where to Go:
Meet in hotel lobby for pick up.

Age Restrictions:
It is not recommended for children younger than 6 years old.

Additional Information:
This expedition is not suitable for people with claustrophobia, physical and motor handicap, or heart problems. It is not suggested for over-sized people (over 264 pounds) or people who are not able to handle physical activity. It is not recommended for pregnant women. People under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be allowed to participate in this expedition.

Amstar DGT Cancun SA de CV - Cancun/Riviera Maya Phone Number: (011 52) 998 881 9500

Here's the most complete excursion to Chichen Itza archaeological site! The deluxe tour includes a guided visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a refreshing dip in the spectacular Ik Kil Cenote (a fresh water sinkhole) and a delicious buffet lunch.

Included:

• Continental breakfast
• Buffet lunch (drinks not included)
• Entrance fee to the archaeological site
• Bilingual tour guide
• Round-trip transportation to/from hotel or meeting point
• Visit to the Ik'Kil sinkhole

Not Included:
If you want to bring a camera for the Chichen Itza archeological site, you must pay $4 USD.

Don't Forget to Bring:

• Comfortable footwear to walk in the jungle
• Swim wear
• Extra t-shirt
• Towel
• Camera
• Cash for tips, pictures and souvenirs

Hours:
Mon-Sat. 8:00 am, and depending on your hotel of stay, please reconfirm with your Amstar representative at your hotel for pick up and time. This tour lasts approximately 7 hours.

Where to Go:
Meet in hotel lobby for pick up.

Age Restrictions:
Children under the age of 5 years old, may participate under the responsibility and direct supervision of a responsible parent or family member.

Additional Information:
Please confirm reservation 48 hours in advance with the Amstar Riviera Maya office or see your Amstar representative at your hotel upon arrival. Remember, no refund if unused.

Amstar DGT Cancun SA de CV - Cancun/Riviera Maya Phone Number: (011 52) 998 881 9500

Explore an underground river system that forms one of the water networks in the area. Head underground for a swim and a unique look at a subterranean world filled with thousands of stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Included:

• Round-trip transportation
• Bilingual guides
• Professional equipment for the activity (wet-suit, helmet and wet shoes)
• Lockers
• Towels
• Light lunch

Not Included: 

• Pictures
• Tips

Don't Forget to Bring:

• Swim wear
• Money
• Comfortable shoes
• Biodegradable sun screen
• Towel
• Camera

Hours:
Daily, 9am and 1pm. Tour duration is 6 hours.

Where to Go:
Depends on your hotel location, confirm with your Amstar representative.

Age Restrictions:
Children under the age of 4 years old may participate under the responsibility and direct supervision of a responsible parent or family member.

Additional Information:
This expedition is not suitable for people with severe physical and motor handicap. Please confirm reservation 48 hours in advance with the Amstar Riviera Maya office or see your Amstar representative at your hotel upon arrival. Remember, no refund if unused.

Amstar DGT Cancun SA de CV - Cancun/Riviera Maya Phone Number: (011 52) 998 881 9500

Day of the Dead, otherwise known as Halloween most everywhere else, is a big, big party in Riviera Maya full of festivals and parades. But it’s not like your typical trick or treat thing: it lasts from October 31 to November 2. On October 31, All Hallows Eve, the children make altars and invite spirits of angelitos (the dead children) to visit. November 1, All Saints Day, the adults come to visit. And November 2, All Souls Day, is when families go to the graves to decorate those of their loved ones who have passed on. But it’s far from somber. All over this tropical wonderland, you’ll see faces painted, people in costumes and shrines set up to honor those they’ve lost. A totally unique experience to witness!

One of the hautest spots on this part of the Yucatan, this nosh spot boasts an open-fire grill and wood-burning oven. The menu includes snacks like luscious gorditas made from Oaxaca cheese and epazote. Small plates like grilled avocado, seasoned with aromatic salt, ponzu and almonds. Large plates like whole roasted fish with tomatillo salsa and cilantro. Desserts include guava cheesecake with amaranth graham cracker crust and raspberries. If you think this sounds delicious, wait until you experience the intoxicating atmosphere (and we’re not talking just the drinks). You’ll dine outside in a magical, open-air setting with the flora as your ceiling. Sparkly lights are hung from the trees, the drinks are stellar and the vibe is effortlessly chic.

After you’ve made the trek all around this imposing, vast Mayan complex and learned about all the half-human, half-animal deities, marveled at the meticulously sculpted corners of buildings and watched the iguanas bravely guard their scaly harem, you’ll be very happy to head down the stairs to the beach just below the ruins. The water is pure heaven: clear blue, perfect temp and refreshing beyond words.