3-day itinerary · Playa del Carmen / Riviera Maya

3 Days in Playa del Carmen / Riviera Maya: Highlights

This plan suits first-time visitors looking for a varied introduction to sightseeing, culture and outdoor experiences. Across three days, it pairs ruins and cenotes with marine encounters, local food and evening performances.

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Day 1: Ruins, illusions and performance

Begin with Mayan heritage and a cenote, then explore illusion art and a jungle-inspired performance.

  1. Tulum & Cenote Adventure

    Morning

    Tulum & Cenote Adventure

    Explore Tulum’s coastal Mayan ruins and a cenote, combining historical sightseeing with a signature outdoor experience.

  2. 3D Museum of Wonders Admission Ticket

    Afternoon

    3D Museum of Wonders Admission Ticket

    Explore illusion artworks for a playful contrast to the morning’s archaeological sights.

  3. Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ Admission Tickets

    Evening

    Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ Admission Tickets

    Watch JOYÀ’s jungle-inspired story unfold, adding a theatrical highlight to your first visit.

Day 2: Turtles, jungle and coastline

Combine guided turtle snorkeling with jungle adventure and a sunset yacht outing.

  1. Private Snorkeling with Sea Turtles in Akumal Beach

    Morning

    Private Snorkeling with Sea Turtles in Akumal Beach

    Join a private guided snorkeling experience focused on sea turtles, bringing marine nature into your highlights itinerary.

  2. From Playa del Carmen ATV Adventure with Ziplines, Cenote

    Afternoon

    From Playa del Carmen ATV Adventure with Ziplines, Cenote

    Ride ATVs, try ziplines and swim in a cenote for an activity-packed introduction to the jungle.

  3. 2 Hour Sunset - 47' Azimut, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya

    Evening

    2 Hour Sunset - 47' Azimut, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya

    Take a sunset yacht outing for a coastal perspective and a quieter counterpoint to the day’s adventures.

Day 3: Underground nature and local culture

Explore underground landscapes before discovering Mexican food and finishing with a cultural night show.

  1. Rio Secreto Plus: Classic Tour, Bycicle, Rappel & Ziplines

    Morning

    Rio Secreto Plus: Classic Tour, Bycicle, Rappel & Ziplines

    Explore Rio Secreto with cycling, rappelling and ziplines, rounding out your introduction to the region’s outdoor experiences.

  2. Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour

    Afternoon

    Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour

    Walk and sample local Mexican food, connecting your first visit with everyday culinary culture.

  3. Xcaret Park Entry Tickets with Cultural Night Show Included

    Evening

    Xcaret Park Entry Tickets with Cultural Night Show Included

    Use the included cultural night show as your finale, ending the itinerary with a performance-focused highlight.

Experiences are supplied by our partner Viator and booked on their site. Check times, prices and availability before you go.

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