Destination:
Days: 7On the eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula, the Riviera Maya’s coastline runs south from the sleepy town of Puerto Morelos, through the buzzing Playa del Carmen, and culminates in Tulum’s barefoot luxury. The beachfront Andaz is located in the private, gated complex of Mayakoba, just north of Playa del Carmen. This beautiful resort looks out to the Mexican Caribbean’s crystal blue waters, surrounded by nature, and perfectly placed for exploring the area.
Connect with the natural, cultural and historical wonders of the Riviera Maya with this magical 6-night itinerary, based at Andaz Mayakoba. Explore Mayan history at Tulum archaeological site, spot colorful fish snorkeling at Yal-ku lagoon, and swim next to the gentle whale sharks around Isla Mujeres. Find the balance between action and relaxation as you bike and cave at Río Secreto, and enjoy seaview dinners at Andaz, with your feet in the sand.
HIGHLIGHTS
6N Andaz Mayakoba – Express yourself at this vibrant and stylish Andaz Mayakoba for 6 nights; this luxury resort is surrounded by tranquil lagoons and lush vegetation and encourages their guests to indulge, move, and play!
Tulum – Explore the ancient city of Tulum with a private guided visit to the archeological site to learn about Mayan history and observe the temples that were built hundreds of years ago.
Yal-Ku Lagoon – Swim and snorkel in the island lagoon near Akumal where fresh and saltwater meet.
Swim with Whale Sharks – Venture into the Meixcan-Caribbean Sea outside Isla Mujeres to swim with the docile whale sharks.
Rio Secreto – Enjoy an underground adventure exploring at Rio Secreto, an underground cave system, considered by the Mayans to be the entrance to the Underworld.
Chichen Itza – Visit Mexico’s most visited archeological site, Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Andaz Mayakoba Experiences – Treat yourself to one of their 5 restaurants (Casa Amate not to be missed); indulge your inner child with s’more making near the bonfire; and learn the secrets to authentic Mexican recipes.
Day 1: Arrive in Cancun and Enjoy a Private Transfer Playa del Carmen
Welcome to Mexico! Your private driver will meet you after landing in Cancun and you will be driven to Andaz Mayakoba.
The beachfront Andaz Mayakoba Resort in the Riviera Maya is a luxurious resort surrounded by rich vegetation, serene lagoons and meandering nature trails. Just north of Playa del Carmen, this upscale retreat is near restaurants, bars and shops, yet the resort feels delightfully secluded. Wake up to tropical views and the sweet sounds of nature. The spacious guestrooms and suites at Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya feature a breezy, open-plan layout with plenty of natural light, and each room has a balcony or terrace to enjoy the refreshing ocean breezes. During your stay at the luxury hotel Andaz Mayakoba, you will enjoy access to the distinguished El Camaleón 18-hole golf course and the Mayakoba Tennis Centre, in addition to various outdoor activities. Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya has five on-site restaurants offering everything from beachfront eating to fine dining.
Dinner suggestion for tonight: Casa Amate
For your welcome dinner, enjoy the Latin American cuisine at Casa Amate, a highly acclaimed restaurant located at the Andaz Mayakoba resort. Recognized as one of Mexico’s Top 250 Restaurants by Guía México Gastronomico, Casa Amate boasts a unique and sophisticated concept inspired by a traveler’s eclectic home. The restaurant features intimate spaces designed like rooms in a house, including Bar Studio, Library, Living Room, and Dining Room. The restaurant overlooks the resort’s lagoon, with a special Amate tree at the center of a picturesque courtyard that serves as the restaurant’s focal point and inspiration for its name.
Hotel: Andaz Mayakoba
Day 2: Private Adventure to Tulum and Yal-Ku Lagoon
Start the day with your private, bilingual guide, and driven to the Tulum Archaeological Site. Explore the ancient city of Tulum, the only Mayan site with vistas over the Caribbean Sea. As you traverse the archeological zone, learn about Mayan history and cosmology, and observe the temples that were built hundreds of years ago to honor the gods of wind and rain. You will also get the chance to swim in the Caribbean Sea below the site, and see Tulum’s iconic “Castillo” from a different perspective.
After your time at the archaeological zone, you’ll continue around 35 minutes to the beautiful Yal-ku Lagoon in the Akumal area. Swim and snorkel in the tranquil inland lagoon, where fresh and saltwater mix to create a home for many types of fish. After a refreshing swim, you will be driven back to your hotel.
Optional Suggested Experience on Property: Private Boat Tour with Lunch
Experience the beauty of Mayakoba’s lagoon and mangroves on a private boat tour. This tour is available every day for breakfast or lunch and includes a guided boat tour with fascinating insights about the local ecosystem. Enjoy a delicious meal aboard the boat featuring fresh, locally sourced Mexican and international cuisine. Don’t forget to reserve your spot for a truly memorable dining experience.
Dinner suggestion for tonight: Cocina Milagro
Feast on Mexican and international cuisine at the poolside pavilion restaurant overlooking the mangroves in the heart of Andaz Mayakoba. With an energetic environment (and often live entertainment) this open-kitchen, market-to-table concept boasts and emphasis on seafood, an artisan pastry selection, and hand-crafted cocktails.
Hotel: Andaz Mayakoba
Day 3: Isla Mujeres Private Whale Shark Expedition (June-September)
This is your chance to swim with the majestic whale shark, the largest fish in the world! On this private trip, you will snorkel alongside these gentle creatures, taking in their impressive size and beauty. After an informative briefing with regards to whale shark rules and safety, you’ll set out on a private boat ride to the natural migration route of the whale sharks. Your guide will tell you all about the graceful animals, before you slip into the water to swim and snorkel alongside the whale sharks that pass by this area annually in the summer months. Despite their size, whale sharks are totally harmless to humans, consuming only large quantities of plankton. Afterwards, head to Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres to enjoy a tasty picnic lunch and time for a swim at the beach. After a true bucket-list experience, you’ll head back to dry land.
Optional Suggested Experience on Property: The Secret to a Perfect Salsa
After an exciting morning on the water, settle back into your resort and whip up some authentic Mexican salsas in a short cooking lesson. Meant to take a dish from good to exceptional, it’s worth understanding the basics of a homemade salsa. Learn the secrets to balanced salsa, balancing heat, acidity, and salt so you can show off your skills at your next social gathering! With original salsa recipes tracing back to the days of the Aztecs, it’s hard to imagine Mexican food without it.
Hotel: Andaz Mayakoba
Day 4: Traverse the Underground River of Rio Secreto
Visit Río Secreto, a natural reserve in the jungle near Playa del Carmen. On this unique expedition, you’ll explore the natural beauty of an ancient cave and cenote system that was hidden for hundreds of years.
Arriving to the site, you’ll meet your private, specialist guide and receive all the necessary equipment for your visit. You’ll start the exploration on mountain bikes, riding through a jungle trail (1.5 km) full of vegetation. Observe and learn about local flora and fauna from your guide as you make your way towards the underground cave system, considered by the Mayans to be the entrance to the Underworld. Once you arrive to the dry cave, you’ll continue foot (1.5 -2 hrs), walking between the light and the shadows as incredible rock formations unfold in front of you. The walk will lead you to a jungle camp, where it’s time to enjoy your box lunch and get changed into your underwater gear for the next step of the adventure!
With your expert guide leading the way, you’ll continue to swim and walk as you make your way through a semi-flooded cave system, or cenote. Admire stalactites and stalagmites reflected in crystal-clear water, as you take in the surreal and otherworldly environment. After your three-part exploration you’ll return to the jungle camp to change, before continuing back to base camp to enjoy some well-deserved, traditional Mexican dishes. Once your experience at Río Secreto comes to a close, you’ll be privately driven back to your hotel.
Optional Suggested Evening Experience on Property: S’mores Party Around the Fire
After an adventurous day, there is nothing more cozy than snuggling next to a fire and roasting the perfect marshmallow. Andaz Mayakoba offers guests a special S’mores Night, perfect for date night or fun with the family.
Hotel: Andaz Mayakoba
Day 5: Riviera Maya Private Tour to Chichen Itza & Hidden Cenote
Enjoy the historical and natural wonders of the Yucatán with a visit to Chichen Itza and a tranquil afternoon at your own private cenote.With your private guide, drive to Mexico´s most iconic archaeological site, Chichen Itza. Learn about the cosmology, religion, and everyday life of the Maya from your expert, who will paint a picture of what Chichen Itzá was like before the Spanish arrived. One of the first structures you´ll see is the striking Castillo or Pyramid of Kukulkan, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visit the Platform of the Skulls, a monument to both life and death, before heading to the ball court where archeologists are still undecided as to whether the winner or the loser was sacrificed.
After exploring Chichen Itza, you´ll be driven to a beautiful private cenote found within the ruins of a historic ranch. These natural, freshwater sinkholes were considered sacred to the Mayans and entrances to the underworld. Take a refreshing swim in the cenote´s crystalline waters and relax the afternoon away in total privacy in a truly unique setting. A delicious Yucatecan menu will be served beneath a magnificent tree in the ranch´s garden for lunch. Having spent time in your private cenote, you will be driven back to the Andaz Mayakoba hotel.
Dinner suggestion for tonight: Sotavento
Enjoy a vibrant and modern restaurant at Andaz Mayakoba that serves international cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With an open kitchen and a contemporary design, it’s a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Sotavento is a fantastic option for dinner, and a great way to round off the day.
Hotel: Andaz Mayakoba
Day 6: Day at Leisure
Enjoy the beauty of the Andaz Mayakoba Resort and Riviera Maya with a day that is all yours. You might choose to relax at the beach, pool, or spa; or you may opt for some more adventures, taking advantage of the many activities available at the hotel. Don’t miss out on the Cacao Ceremony – an ancient Maya Ma´alob Kin ceremony. The immersive encounter is offered as complimentary experiences, inviting you to delve into the depths of flavor and tradition without hesitation.
Dinner suggestion for tonight: Tinta del Pulpo
Located by the pool, Tinta del Pulpo offers a diverse range of Mexican and international cuisine, complemented by locally sourced ingredients, artisanal beers, and delicious sauces. With its inviting atmosphere and scrumptious menu, it is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner under the stars. It’s an excellent option for a farewell dinner, with its delightful menu and stunning views of the pool and surrounding gardens.
Day 7: Playa del Carmen Private Transfer to Cancun
Your private driver will meet you in Playa del Carmen and you will be driven to Cancun.
Dates
Our trips are fully customized, allowing us to build your itinerary for any time of the year.
Prices
Our custom-tailored journeys start from $1,800 USD per day for two travelers. Contact us today to discuss your travel desires and design a personalized proposal with exact pricing.
Please note, our pricing guideline is a starting from price and is not necessarily applicable to the suggested hotels contained within the suggested itineraries on this website. Itineraries are customized prior to final pricing. Suggested/Optional activities are not included in the quote.
