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A Mexico Yucatan Road Trip Two Week Itinerary – Isla Holbox, Rio Lagartos, Valladolid, Tulum, Playa del Carmen
Yucatan, Mexico Road Trip Highlights
- Isla Holbox Pool and Beach Bar
- Rio Lagartos Boat Tour
- Authentic Yucatan Food in Valladolid
- Swimming in Cenotes
- One Week in Playa del Carmen
- Upscale Dinner in a Cave – Alux
- Snorkeling in Cozumel
Mexico Road Trip Tips:
- Download the entire Yucatan area on Google Maps – Many places will not have service, so make sure to download the entire Yucatan Peninsula map before you go! This is easy to do on Google Maps.
- Organize your Car and Make Car Rules – You may not realize it yet but your car can get messy. Keep a clean car to mitigate the chances of losing things.
- Rental Car Insurance Research – Make sure you are prepared with rental car insurance papers when getting a rental car. Mexico has some unique care rental requirements.
- Always have Extra Water and Snacks – For those long car rides make sure to have cold drinks and yummy snacks on hand so you don’t have to stop.
Mexico Yucatan Road Trip – Day 1
Denver International Airport to Cancun, Mexico ~ 4 Hour Flight
Denver Centurion Lounge
We flew from Denver International Airport to Cancun. We got to enjoy some breakfast at the brand new American Express Denver Centurion Lounge. I highly suggest getting a credit card that includes airport lounges and other travel benefits if you travel a lot! Read More about Airport Lounge access Here
In My Travel Tote
Documents
- Passport + Passport Cover
- Itinerary
- Tickets
- Travel Wallet
- Driver’s License
- Credit Cards + Cash
- Document Folder
Personal
- Book
- Travel Journal & Pen
- Pencil Pouch
- Snacks – Think! High Protein Bars
- Water Bottle
- Sunglasses
- Small Jacket, Scarf
- Travel Lotion & Hand Sanitizer
Electronics
Cancun to Chiquilà ~ 2 Hour Drive
Enterprise Car Rental
We chose to start our Yucatan, Mexico road trip in Isla Holbox. From Cancun, you can either rent a car and drive or take the popular Ado Bus. Enterprise car rental is located near Cancun International airport. Once we got our rental car it was time to start our Yucatan, Mexico road trip. We chose to drive as we were traveling to five other Yucatan cities. There was one toll road we had to take to get to Isla Holbox. The toll roads are easy and worth the extra $174pesos ~ $9USD. Most of the drive is on a highway that is well maintained and easy to navigate.
Isla Holbox, Mexico
Isla Holbox is a quaint and authentic island located on the Northside of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Isla of Holbox is known for its wildlife, nature reserves, and cozy beach town vibe. One of my favorite islands to visit because of the gorgeous beaches, small-town feel, and amazing food. This island is filled with so many restaurants that offer outstanding food and drinks.
The Ultimate Isla Holbox Travel Guide
Accommodation
Budget Friendly ($) – Casa Chujuk
We stayed at Casa Chujuk. This was a great hotel with AC, hot water, WIFI, newly renovated, with a great outdoor area. This was a great find for just $35USD per night (prices will vary depending on the time of year). It is located off the main area in a safe neighborhood. It was comfortable, with a great pool, and helpful staff.
The biggest perk about this Hostal is that it is sister to the 5-Star Beachside Amaite Resort. This included free access to the Amaite Beach Club. The beach club came with towels, wifi, lounge chairs, palapas.
Street Food
After checking in to our hotel we headed to El Centro in search for some street food. All throughout the city, you will find small food carts that serve a range of dishes. In Isla Holbox, we found many Marquestias, tacos, sopas, and hot dog stands. They cook and prepare the dishes right in front of you. This is a great option for a late-night treat. I absolutely loved the Marquesitas! A Marquesitas is a common Yucatan dessert similar to a crepe but more crunchy.
Mexico Yucatan Road Trip – Day 2
Le Jardin – Breakfast
Le Jardin is a hidden gem located a few blocks from the beach and Isla Holbox town center. This is an authentic French breakfast and lunch spot. We went here twice during our time in Isla Holbox. The ham, turkey, and cheese omelet is light and delicious. The French pastries are cheap and the perfect sweet treat.
Things To Do in Isla Holbox
- Take a photo at the Iconic Holbox Sign
- Street Art
- El Centro
- Visit Punta Mosquito Beach
- Get a Fresh Coconut
- Rent a Bike and Explore the Island
- Swim with Whale Sharks
- Watch the Sunrise/Sunset
- Hangout at the many Beach Clubs
Alma Bar
Alma Bar was one of the highlights during our Mexico trip. Nestled amongst the hotels and beach clubs on the west end of the island. This is a third-floor pool bar with gorgeous views of turquoise ocean colors. The Margaritas are delicious and hand-made right at the center bar. The tacos are small but full of flavor. We stayed here for about three hours, relaxing in the cabanas and pool while sipping on our drinks. On the weekends there is a live DJ that plays at the top floor tiki hut that overlooks the pool and bar.
Read my Full Alma Bar Review Here
Holbox Foodie Market
One of our favorite meals during our Mexico adventures was at Holbox Foodie Market. The Lobster Pizza is a traditional dish in Isla Holbox. It is a refreshing, rich, and delicious bite. We went during happy hour with 2 for 1 cocktails, so we enjoyed a regular margarita and another traditional Holbox treat, the Blackarita. The Blackarita is quite different and not one of my favorites but it grows on you. This restaurant is laid out in a market-style with different wooden buildings offering a variety of food. You will find options for sushi, pizza, hamburgers, tacos, and cocktails.
Read my Full Holbox Foodie Market Review Here
Bar Hopping
The Hot Corner
This is the busiest bar in town. Hot Corner is located just a block from the beach and el Centro. They have many drink options with Mexican bar food. They are known for their live music every night. Grab a partner and head out the street to work on your salsa dancing!
Bikini Bottom Bar
Biking Bottom is a small bamboo tiki bar located right on the beach. With a name like that you know this place will be a good time, every night this place was lit up with flashy lights and an active DJ. We knew this would be a great spot because of the consistent people drinking here. This is a great beach-side bar serving up any drink you can think of. There are hammocks and swings to hang out in and enjoy your Cerveza.
Bar Arena
We stumbled upon Bar Arena one night when looking for a fun bar that was a bit more laid back than Hot Corner. Bar Arena is a rooftop bar located right in the middle of town. The decor is simple and inviting with fun lighting, a pool bar, and views of the city. The waiter brought out some peanuts for us to munch on while enjoying our drinks.
Mexico Yucatan Road Trip – Day 3
Painapol – Breakfast
Painapol is a healthy cafe situated one block off the town center. We found this place because of the long line of people waiting outside. We waited 30 minutes for a table and the food was well worth the wait. Painapol is known for its colorful smoothie bowls and jars. There are many creations to chose from. The breakfast dishes are healthy, simple, and delicious.
Read my Full Painapol Review Here
Isla Holbox to Rio Lagartos ~ 2.5 Hour Drive
Rio Lagartos, Mexico
Rio Lagartos, Mexico is a small fishing town located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. A small untouched lagoon lays on the Gulf of Mexico this is an outdoorsman’s dream with a variety of wildlife and a protected biosphere. Rio Lagartos is known for its boat tours, crocodiles, mangroves, exotic birds, and Las Coloradas Pink Lakes. This is a wonderful town to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula.
The Ultimate Rio Lagartos Travel Guide
Accommodation
Budget Friendly ($) – Hotel Mercy Inn
We stayed at the Mercy Hotel. This was a great stay right on the water. It is not a fancy hotel but it offers a great location, Wi-Fi, clean private rooms, and great service. Breakfast was included with our stay, which was delivered to our room on a tray with scrambled eggs, fruit, juice, and toast. The breakfast was simple and filled us up for our day out on the boat.
One large perk to staying here is that they partner with Ricky’s Boat Tours. When we checked in the host asked us if we were interested in the tours. We said yes and that was that! Read below for more information.
Things To Do in Rio Lagartos
- Boat Tour
- Crocodile Boat Tour at Night
- Cenotes Nearby
- Las Coloradas Pink Lakes
- Rio Lagartos Sign
- Fresh Seafood
- Visit El Centro *They might have an entertaining community basketball match going!
- Walk down the Walk around the Peninsula and enjoy the Ocean Views
- Watch the Sunrise/Sunset
Dinner at Perico Marinero
This is one of the top restaurants in town. Located right on the water at the North point of the peninsula. We found this restaurant on google plus our hotel recommended it for dinner. We are so happy we dined here for dinner! They offer amazing food at a reasonable price, with gorgeous ocean views. We sat upstairs by the wall of windows and got to watch the sunset while we ate. This restaurant does accept credit cards! Most restaurants in Rio Lagartos do not accept credit cards in this town so bring cash!
What to Order: Ceviche + Grilled Fish Filet
Basketball Game in El Centro
After a lovely dinner, we strolled down the sidewalk and took our touristy photos at the colorful Rio Lagartos sign. The town was quiet and seemed very sleepy… until we heard loud music and people cheering coming from El Centro. On Saturday night, we found the whole town cheering on a local basketball match. There was a small carnival/awards ceremony going on as well but the main event was the men’s basketball game. We joined the locals in the stands and watched the basketball game. This was a great experience that showed how close the Rio Lagartos community is.
Mexico Yucatan Road Trip – Day 4
Rio Lagartos Boat Tour Day!
An absolute must thing to do in Rio Lagartos is a boat tour. I highly recommend booking yours with Ricky’s Tours. The guides are knowledgeable, fun, and include everything for a great price.
What’s All Included:
- 3-Hour Boat Tour (up to 6 People)
- Private Guide
- Explore the four different Mangroves
- Crocodile Sightings
- Flamingos
- Exotic Birds Mayan Mud Bath
- Las Coloradas Pink Lakes
Price
The three-hour tour is a flat rate of $1,200peso for a 6-person boat. The price per person is equal to the flat rate divided by the number of people. Just Ben and I signed up for the tour but luckily another couple joined us cutting the price in half. Making this tour only $600pesos ~ $30USD ($15USD per person). A great price for an amazing tour.
Tip: Look for other tourists at local restaurants to see if they want to join the tour group. Whether you are 2 or 4 people you will still pay the same flat rate for a six-person tour boat.
Tour Rating:
AMAZING!! This was an outstanding tour I highly recommend booking your Rio Lagartos Tour with Ricky’s Tours.
Read my Full Boat Tour Experience Here
Rio Lagartos to Valladolid ~ 1.5 Hour Drive
Valladolid, Mexico
Valladolid is located deep in the jungle of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. This is becoming a tourist city with nearby Mayan ruins, cenotes, and colorful buildings. It still holds its authentic roots with its traditional foods, colonial style, and vibrant culture. It is a wonderful city to visit because it is situated a short drive to many larger cities. Valladolid is a great place to try traditional Yucatan food at a cheap price.
The Ultimate Valladolid Travel Guide
Accommodation
Budget Friendly ($) – Hostal Gayser
We stayed at Hostal Gayser located just a few blocks from the town center. This is a budget-friendly hotel with simple amenities. It is a hostel so there are shared bathrooms, showers, and a kitchen area. We had a busy schedule so we did not spend a lot of time here. This was a great place that was cheap and safe. We got a private room, that includes a simple double bed, sheets, fan, wi-fi, and bathroom towels.
Dinner at El Artio
El Artio is a crowd-pleaser with its rich Mexican and Italian dishes. The pasta dishes are ginormous. We dined here for a nice dinner in the center of town right next to the Iglesia de San Servacio – Catholic Church. The complimentary chips and salsa to start were a great start. The Sikil P’ak (pumpkin seed salsa) was delicious! This was a fabulous dining experience!
Read my Full El Artio Restaurant Review Here
Mexico Yucatan Road Trip – Day 5
Today’s Agenda
- Breakfast at Las Campanas ✓
- Ek Balam Mayan Ruins
- Cenote X-Canche
- Dinner with the locals at Bazar Municipal
- Back to Las Campanas for Frozen Margaritas & Appetizers
- Walk around El Centro
- Get a Marquesita
Ek Balam Mayan Ruins
There are two major Mayan Ruins near Valladolid, Chicken Itza, and Ek Balam. Chicken Itza is one of the &-Wonders of the world and has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. Ek Balam is also a tourist attraction that is far less busy but offers the same Mayan Ruin experience. Both ruins are about a 30-minute drive from the Valladolid town center.
Cenote X-Canche
Cenote X-Canche is located right next to the Ek Balam ruins. To get to the cenote from the ruins you can either take a short walk down a dirt road or drive. The cenote is NOT included in the entrance fee for the ruins. You will need to purchase a separate ticket for the cenote at the small palapa on your way to the cenote. Price ~$8.50USD/adult
This is a great cenote to visit because of all the fun activities it has to offer. There are life jackets and inner tubes to float around in. There is no additional charge for these items. We arrived in the afternoon and were the only few people here. Take a swing on the rope and jump into this refreshing all-natural pool!
Bazar Municipal
Bazar Municipal is a food market with many small eateries located right on the corner of Valladolid town center. This is where you can get cheap food… like really cheap. Many locals eat here which is a good indicator of how authentic the food is. It is a bit overwhelming when first walking through, many men will be waving menus around trying to get you to come to their restaurants instead of others. There is a range of cuisines to chose from. We chose to change it up from the classic Mexican dishes and get some Chinese food. There is no alcohol served here and you have to pay to use the restrooms.
Las Campanas
We dined here twice it was so good! Las Campanas is located right on the corner inside the town center. For being right in the town center this place serves great authentic food for a reasonable price. The frozen margaritas are delicious and cheaper than most places. Panchos Traditional is an authentic Yucatan dish. Similar to a tostada but a bit different. They take two corn tortillas and stuff them with refried black beans then fry them, then add the meat and additional toppings.
Read my Full Las Campanas Restaurant Review Here
El Centro + Marquesitas
All throughout the city, you will find small food carts that serve a range of dishes. In Valladolid, we found many Marquestias, tacos, elote corn, and hot dog stands. They cook and prepare the dishes right in front of you. This is a great option for a late-night treat. I absolutely loved the Marquesitas! A Marquesita is a common Yucatan dessert similar to a crepe but crunchies. You can pick from a wide range of toppings.
The Ultimate Valladolid Food Guide
Mexico Yucatan Road Trip – Day 6
Breakfast at Restaurant & Pizzeria Oasis
Restaurant & Pizzeria Oasis is a local spot located a few blocks from Valladolid Centro. As you get away from the bustling and touristic center the prices get cheaper and the food gets more authentic. This is a small family ran restaurant serving authentic Yukutan dishes. An amazing restaurant to grab some good breakfast for cheap!
Cenote Zaci
Cenotes Zaci is located right in the city of Valladolid. This is an easy cenote to walk to if you are staying near Valladolid town center. Cenote Zaci is one of the cheapest cenotes in the Yucatan and is one of my favorites! The water is refreshing, clean, and great for swimming. There are various ledges for some thrilling cliff jumping. Price ~ $1.50USD/adult
Shop at the Local Markets
Skip the touristy overpriced stores around the town center and find great deals at the many street markets. They are located all around town, a few of my favorites are the Zaci Market and Municipal Market. I bought some cute handmade leather sandals at the Municipal Market for just $240pesos. You can always offer less if you do not agree with the price!
Cenote Suytun + Cenote Kaapeh
Before we left Valladolid we visited two cenotes. Cenote Suytum is an Instagram-worthy cenote with a large man-made platform in the middle. This is a closed cenote with a small hole that brings in the bright sun. Visit in the middle of the day to get the best photos with the spotlight shining right in the middle of the platform. There is a lifeguard on duty that makes you wear a life jacket at all times while you are in the water. Cenote Suytum is a short 12-minute drive from the city center of Valladolid. Price ~ $7.50USD/adult for both cenotes – Suytun and Kaapeh
Read my Full Yucatan Cenote Travel Guide Here
Valladolid to Tulum ~ 1.5 Hour Drive
Tulum, Mexico
Tulum has become a popular tourist destination in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Their unique boho design and healthy lifestyle have attracted many people from around the world. Tulum is known for its ancient ruins, coastal beach, and rocky cliffs. While Tulum is not one of my favorite places in the Yucatan Peninsula, it is still a great place to visit at least once in your lifetime.
24 Hour Tulum Travel Guide
Accommodation
Budget Friendly ($) – Bufo Alvarius
We stayed at Bufo Alvarius, unfortunately, this was not one of our favorite stays. While this hotel has great aesthetics and amenities, they highly promote taking part in their ceremonies while on the Bufo Alvarius experience. We did not realize this is what the hotel was into and felt a bit awkward because we do not partake in things like this.
Things To Do in Tulum
- Tulum Mayan Ruins
- Cenote
- Follow That Dream Sign
- Beach Clubs
- Ven a La Luz – Entry Photo
Bonita Burger
Bonita Burger has made quite an impact on social media with its dazzling one-of-a-kind burgers. Their menu is filled with unique burgers and tasty sides. The burgers are large and filling, each burger comes with four condiments. This is an indoor/outdoor restaurant with a laid-back vibe. This is a must-visit restaurant while visiting Tulum! Bonita Burger is open in the evening 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
What to Order: Any Burger
Tulum to Playa del Carmen ~ 1.5 Hour Drive
Mexico Yucatan Road Trip – Day 7 to 14
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular tourist cities in Mexico. The coastal town is filled with laid-back restaurants, shops, and bars. The bright blue turquoise waters line the coast with palm trees and coral reefs. This tourist city is one of my favorite places to visit because there are numerous things to do with a relaxing authentic feel.
The Ultimate Valladolid Travel Guide
Accommodation
Moderate Price ($$)
Villas Sacbe Condo Hotel and Beach Club
- Condo Style with Full Kitchen
- Welcoming Decor & Furniture
- Access to a Full Gym, Beach Club, Outdoor Pool, and Spa
- Concierge Services
- Free High-Speed Internet
- Free Parking
We absolutely loved our stay at Villas Sacbe. Check-in was easy and the service was amazing. Our condo was in a gated area with a small pool and just a handful of other condos. The condo was clean, welcoming, and ginormous. We adventured over to the sister beach club every day, as well as the full gym. The only bad thing I have to say is that it can be very loud at night with nearby clubs blaring music.
One Week In Playa del Carmen
We spent one full week in Playa del Carmen and absolutely loved it. This city offers a great variety of things to do at a reasonable price. Playa del Carmen was one of my favorite cities. We visited the El Taj Beach Club every day, strolled down 5th Avenue, and enjoyed an upscale dinner in a cave.
Tip: There is a large Walmart Superstore located right in town, before returning the rental car we bought food for the entire week. This saved us some money because we were not eating out every day and it was nice to have a home-cooked meal.
Things To Do in Playa del Carmen
- Cigars
- Mexican Chocolate Shop
- 5th Avenue
- Alux Cave Restaurant
- Take the Ferry to Cozumel Island
- Eat Tacos at El Fogon
- Street Food
- Beach Clubs
- Mall
- Drink a Margarita
Alux Restaurant
Alux is more than just a restaurant, this is a unique unforgettable dining experience. Alux is an upscale restaurant built into a naturally formed underground cave/cenote. Caves and cenotes are very popular in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. This restaurant highlights the true natural beauty of the Mexican culture and landscape. This is the perfect restaurant for a romantic date night or a special occasion. The food and service are exceptional!
Read my full Alux Restaurant Review Here
Rating
One of the best dining experiences I have ever had with outstanding service, food, and one of a kind venue. Add Alux Playa del Carmen to your BUCKET LIST!
Mexico Yucatan Road Trip – Day 13
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is a well-known island in the Caribbean Sea. This island is a popular cruise ship port and can be very touristy. If you are interested in scuba diving or snorkeling, Cozumel is a perfect place to visit. There are tons of scuba diving companies throughout the Island as well as snorkeling boat tours. Most of the island is undeveloped but near El Centro and the ferry port, it is bustling with tourists. Take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel for a fun adventurous day trip. Rent a scooter and explore the island.
A Guide to Snorkeling in Cozumel
Getting to Cozumel – Ferry
From Playa del Carmen, we took a 45-minute ferry ride to Cozumel Island. There are two ferry companies that run between the two cities on opposite days. Make sure to check the schedule and know which ferry you are planning to take as the times vary depending on the day and ferry company. Purchase your tickets at the ticket stand right near the ferry port. You will have the option for a first-class or a general ticket. We purchased the general tickets which came to be $25USD/person for a round trip ferry. *Prices do vary depending on the time of year.
Ferry Tips
- Get to the ferry port at least an hour early! The ferry companies will oversell tickets.
- Be prepared if you are prone to seasickness. The ferry is large but it is a long and slow ride.
- There is a small coffee show on the Ultramar ferry.
- Save your money and purchase the general tickets instead of the first-class tickets.
- Be prepared to go through security.
- Ferry Schedule and More Information
Things To Do in Cozumel
- Snorkel
- Scuba Dive
- Visit El Centro
- Rent a Scooter
- Snap a photo at the Isla Cozumel Sign
- Watch the Sunset/Sunrise
- Visit a Beach Club
Snorkeling Must Haves
I highly suggest purchasing your snorkeling gear before you go. Renting snorkeling gear can be pricey if you are going multiple days during your vacation.
I recommend purchasing this Snorkeling Gear package from Amazon. This bundle has everything you will need at a great price.
What is All Included?
- Panoramic View Dive Mask
- Dry Top Snorkel
- Adjustable Fins
- Dry Mesh Bag
Additional Items to Purchase
Sky Reef
Sky Reef is one of my top places to go snorkeling in Cozumel. There is no minimum fee that you need to pay to snorkel and enjoy their beach club. All you need to do is order something, it could be the cheapest thing on the menu. The staff is welcoming and very helpful. Sky Reef offers sports bundles if you need to rent snorkeling gear or would like to try our kayak or paddleboard, they have those too. The chicken nachos are delicious!
Snorkeling at Sky Reef is easy, safe, and fun. There is a large area roped off that you snorkel in, I love that it is roped off because you do not have to worry about boats passing by. We spent the whole day here snorkeling and got to see much marine life including a stingray, fish, barracuda, and coral structures. Tip: Swim all the way out to the rope to experience the deep sea with a large drop in the ocean wall.
Mexico Yucatan Road Trip – Day 14
Playa del Carmen to Cancun International Airport ~ 1 Hour Bus Ride
Ado Bus Transportation
Since we came into a hefty Mexico insurance charge with our rental car we returned our car first thing when arriving in Playa del Carmen because we knew we wouldn’t need it. To get back to the Cancun International Airport we took an Ado Bus. I highly encourage taking the Ado buses, they are efficient, quick, comfortable, and cheap. Playa del Carmen to Cancun was about $12USD per person and a quick one-hour ride.
Total Drive Time = 10+ Hours
