Quintana Roo

The basics

There are many ways to get a feel for Quintana Roo, whether you’re into food, wildlife, or adventure. Spend a day at an ecopark like Xcaret or Xel-Há, or join a half- or full-day wildlife-watching excursion. Sail to and snorkel offshore spots such as Cozumel and Isla Contoy, or explore Tulum, Cancún, and Playa del Carmen, three of Quintana Roo’s biggest cities. Tours often stop at multiple Quintana Roo hot spots, which is ideal if you have limited time in the region. You can also book skip-the-line tickets in advance, guaranteeing your access to top attractions such as Chichén Itzá.

Things to know before you go

• Quintana Roo is typically hot and humid, so pack light, breathable clothing.
• Many hotels and museums in Quintana Roo are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but archaeological sites and outdoor activities may not be.

How to get there

Situated on Mexico’s east coast, Quintana Roo is part of the Yucatán Peninsula. Several airlines fly directly to Cancún International Airport from North American and European cities. Most travelers explore the region by car or boat.

When to get there

Quintana Roo is busiest from December through April, when the weather is least humid. For a comparatively quieter (and more affordable) experience, visit in May—or in summer or fall, if you don’t mind rainstorms.

Wildlife Experiences in Quintana Roo

While Quintana Roo has its share of party-loving cities, relaxing beaches, and historic ruins, it’s also one of the best places in Mexico for wildlife enthusiasts. Swim with whale sharks off the coast of Isla Holbox between June and September, look for crocodiles in mangrove forests, or snorkel around the Great Maya Reef. Meanwhile, bird-watchers won’t want to miss Cozumel or Isla Contoy.

Ways to explore

There are many ways to get a feel for Quintana Roo, whether you’re into food, wildlife, or adventure. Spend a day at an ecopark like Xcaret or Xel-Há, or join a half- or full-day whale shark excursion. Sail to and snorkel offshore spots such as Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Isla Contoy, or Isla Holbox, or explore Tulum, Cancún, and Playa del Carmen, three of Quintana Roo’s biggest tourist destinations. Tours often stop at multiple Quintana Roo hot spots, among them the Maya ruins at Coba and Tulum, making them ideal if you have limited time in the region.

Accessibility

Many hotels and museums in Quintana Roo are accessible to people using wheelchairs, but archaeological sites and outdoor activities may not be.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect native marine life while you swim and snorkel.

What to wear

Quintana Roo is typically hot and humid, so light, breathable clothing is key.

Not allowed

After dark, it’s safest to stick to well-lit streets and tourist zones in Tulum, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen. Travelers can become targets in downtown areas.

Address 

Situated on Mexico’s southeast coast, across the border from Belize, Quintana Roo is part of the Yucatan Peninsula. Many airlines fly directly to Cancun International Airport, the state’s transportation hub, from North American and European cities.

Driving

Both corrupt police officers and criminals posing as police officers sometimes target rental car drivers. Always request ID and a copy of the fine, and never hand over cash or your passport.

Public transportation

The state has a network of intercity buses, as well as the Mayan Train (Tren Maya), which connects major tourist destinations in five southern Mexican states.

Best times to visit

Quintana Roo has something to offer day and night.

Best days to visit

There’s no bad day to visit Quintana Roo.

Best months to visit

Quintana Roo is busiest from December through April, when the weather is least humid. For a comparatively quieter (and more affordable) experience, visit in May—or in summer or fall, if you don’t mind rainstorms.

Special events

The Day of the Dead (November 1–2) is a massive event in Mexico, and Quintana Roo is no exception. Hotels, theme parks, cities, and even cenotes host special events. At cenotes, the festivities are often linked to the area's pre-Columbian roots.