Date of publication 13/01/2026
Your trip to the Riviera Maya starts here: what to keep in mind
Jungle, sea, and sacred stone. The inspiration is clear. But before booking one of the best hotels in the Riviera Maya, it’s natural to have a few practical questions. What documents are required to enter Mexico? What’s the best time of year to travel? In this short guide, we cover what you need to know when planning a trip to the Riviera Maya, so everything goes exactly as expected.
The Riviera Maya, a destination where everything starts with good planning
What makes this region of the Mexican Caribbean so special
The Riviera Maya is a destination of contrasts. What sets it apart? Its ability to reconnect you with nature, an almost endless range of leisure options for all ages, the richness of its traditions, and the dream resorts where you can stay. Tying it all together is an energy that lifts your mood almost instantly. Plan your trip well so you don’t miss a thing.
How to tailor your trip to your style: relaxation, adventure, or culture
Five-star hotels in the Riviera Maya suit every travel style. Whether it’s a wellness escape or a family vacation, this region of the Mexican Caribbean delivers exactly what’s needed. Unwind on paradisiacal beaches with turquoise waters, lean into adventure by exploring vibrant landscapes, or dive into the mysteries of Mexico’s cultures as you start letting go of every last layer.
Documentation and entry requirements for Mexico
Passport, visa, and the Multiple Immigration Form
Getting familiar with Mexico’s customs and traditions matters, but so does having your travel documentation in order. In 2026, in most cases, a valid passport for the entire stay is enough. There is no officially required minimum validity, though it’s smart to travel with some margin. Citizens of the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada do not need a tourist visa. The former paper version of the Multiple Immigration Form has been replaced by a digital record linked to your entry stamp.
New regulations and maximum length of stay
Under the 2026 regulations, the length of stay is no longer granted automatically. Although the legal maximum remains 180 days, the immigration officer will decide how many days are authorized based on the reason for the trip. For tourism, this is rarely an issue as long as the purpose of travel is explained clearly, concisely, and consistently.
Tips to avoid delays on arrival
On arrival, keep the passport, hotel reservations, and return ticket within easy reach. This helps avoid delays and speeds up the entry process. It is also advisable to have Mexican pesos exchanged in advance at the departure airport, and to have the transfer to the accommodation or a rental car booked ahead of time.
Once these formalities are behind you, paradise awaits. To start easing into it, consider a visit to Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún, a new five-star resort just 20 minutes from the airport, where luxury and sustainability come together in vibrant colors.
When to travel to the Riviera Maya based on climate and seasons
Dry season: ideal weather from November to April
For many travelers, the best time to visit Cancún and other Riviera Maya destinations is between November and April, during the dry season. At this time of year, the Caribbean shows its most pleasant and mild side: blue skies, moderate humidity, and bright sunshine. Temperatures range from a comfortable 24°C to 30°C, with little rainfall.
Rainy season: heat, showers, and hurricane season
From June to October, the weather turns fully tropical: higher temperatures, more humidity, and a greater chance of rain, usually in the form of brief late-afternoon downpours that freshen the air. Keep in mind this period overlaps with hurricane season. While there are still plenty of sunny days, it’s wise to stay aware of weather forecasts and travel with insurance and enough flexibility to adjust dates if needed.
The best months to avoid crowds and high prices
If balance is the goal (pleasant temperatures, lower hotel occupancy, and more affordable rates), the shoulder seasons are the best option: April through June and the month of November. Beaches and hotels feel calm yet lively, outside school holiday periods, and often with attractive deals. This is also a smart time to book an adults-only hotel in the Riviera Maya. Popular sites with heavy visitor traffic, such as the Chichén Itzá pyramid, will be noticeably less crowded.
Health and safety: what to know before traveling
Drinking water, food, and basic precautions
In this part of Mexico, tap water is not potable. To stay on the safe side, drink bottled water or refill a reusable bottle at Riviera Maya hotels that offer filtered water stations. It’s also best to avoid drinks with ice outside the resort. Local cuisine will win you over, but choose reputable restaurants. Tacos and Mexican moles are even better when enjoyed with peace of mind. Finally, keep mosquito repellent and a high-SPF sunscreen in the bag at all times. Non-toxic formulas help protect local ecosystems.
Travel insurance: why it’s essential
Travel insurance brings real peace of mind, especially when visiting the Riviera Maya with children. Private healthcare in Mexico is good, but expensive. A solid policy should cover medical care and hospitalization, as well as cancellations and lost luggage. With outdoor plans, road travel, and water activities on the agenda, insurance is not an optional add-on—it’s a must.
Safe areas, transportation, and sensible precautions
The Mexican Caribbean is generally safe for travelers. Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and family hotels in the Riviera Maya have a strong tourist presence and constant security, so most issues are handled quickly. Still, stick to official public transportation, authorized taxis, or a rental car. As a basic precaution, avoid isolated areas at night and, as anywhere in the world, don’t display valuables in public.
Currency, payments, and budgeting without surprises
Cash vs. card: what works best in each situation
The official currency is the Mexican peso, though some establishments also accept U.S. dollars. Paying in pesos almost always gives a better exchange rate. In hotels, restaurants, and large stores, Visa and Mastercard work well. But for taxis, buses, local markets, and small shops, cash is key. Spending in these places also supports community-based tourism. Keep small bills on hand for tips and everyday expenses.
Withdrawing money at your destination: fees and best practices
Withdrawing pesos from ATMs inside banks usually means lower fees than using standalone machines. Avoid questionable ATMs advertising “no commission” since they often come with unfavorable exchange rates. Notify the bank of travel dates to prevent security blocks and packsome cash already exchanged.
How much does it cost to travel to the Riviera Maya? Realistic estimates
A Riviera Maya vacation can fit very different budgets depending on travel style, season, and pace. That’s why exact estimates vary, but as a general reference, one week at a five-star resort may range between €1,500 and €3,500, including accommodation, transportation, and activities. Premium stays can cost more. From Spain, a round-trip economy ticket typically costs between €600 and €800. In the low season, flights can be found for around €600 and sometimes even €500.
For good value, Iberostar Waves Quetzal is one of the best hotels in Playa del Carmen, offering attentive service right on the beachfront.
Transfers and getting around the Riviera Maya
How to get from the airport to your hotel
Cancún International Airport will be your gateway to paradise. From there, there are several ways to reach the different towns and hotel areas in the Riviera Maya: a private transfer arranged in advance, a shared shuttle organized by the accommodation, or a rental car. Avoid negotiating last-minute transport on arrival. As a rule, it is best to have everything booked before landing.
Public transportation, taxis, and car rentals
Colectivos, whether shared taxis, buses, or vans, are the go-to option for public transportation: affordable, efficient, and frequent between places like Cancún and Playa del Carmen. If a taxi is the preferred option, agree on the fare before getting in. Renting a car offers total freedom to visit cenotes and remote beaches, but it requires calm, attentive driving. In protected natural areas, cycling and walking routes are also great options. In addition to staying active, they help protect the habitat of endangered wildlife.
Distances and travel times between key attractions
Distances and travel times between the main tourist areas are manageable, with good road connections to Mayan ruins and some of the most memorable diving spots. The airport is only about 20 minutes from the resort zone. Playa del Carmen is roughly an hour away, while Playa Paraíso is around an hour and forty-five minutes. There is no need to rush. Pick the perfect song, turn up the volume, and enjoy the ride.
Must-do experiences to complete the trip
Cenotes and underground rivers that define the region
For the ancient Maya, cenotes were portals to other worlds. These natural sinkholes, like open eyes in the earth, form liquid veins that connect a labyrinth of underground channels, making nature feel close at every turn. Swimming in Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, or Cenote Azul is like stepping into sacred geography, where the water is fresh and cool. Bring water shoes and follow the rules.
Back in the Playa Paraíso hotel area, more unforgettable experiences await in other oases, such as JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar, a higher-category resort created for pure indulgence.
Mayan ruins: Tulum, Cobá, and Chichén Itzá
Explore the living memory of the destination through its Mayan ruins. Beyond Chichén Itzá, whose grandeur and sunlit presence inspire awe, there is the ancestral city of Tulum, set by the sea and framed like a postcard of history. Cobá, deep in the jungle, invites slow, quiet walking. A few practical tips: start early, bring cold water, and cover your head with a hat or scarf.
Beaches, nature reserves, and one-of-a-kind adventures
Beyond relaxing and soaking up the sun, natural reserves open the door to experiences that feel truly unique. Snorkel in Akumal, take a boat ride through mangroves, or uncover the mysteries of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
Playa Paraíso lives up to its name: soft, pale sand, palm trees, and a spectrum of blues that pulls you in from the first moment. This is where Iberostar Selection Paraíso Maya Suites is located, one of those Riviera Maya hotels with a water park designed for carefree fun, with every detail in place to let you fully relax.
A trip that’s better when it’s well planned
Now that the logistics are clear, it’s time to raise a toast, Mexican style. The celebration of the next vacation begins with planning it. Being organized makes it possible to truly rest, relax, and enjoy the comfort of the Riviera Maya’s hotels without having to worry about a thing.
