How to Plan Your Day Trip to Sumidero Canyon and San Juan Chamula in Playa Del Carmen

Looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Playa Del Carmen? Why not plan a day trip to Sumidero Canyon National Park and San Juan Chamula? You’ll be able to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature and culture on this full-day tour. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to plan your trip to Sumidero Canyon and San Juan Chamula.

Overview

This full-day tour is designed for lovers of culture and nature. You’ll start with a boat ride on the Grijalva River, flanked by towering cliffs reaching 3280 feet (1000 meters). You’ll cruise through caverns and marvel at the stunning natural scenery of Sumidero Canyon National Park. After the boat tour, you’ll head to San Juan Chamula, a colonial town known for its quaint churches and artisan market.

What’s Included

The full-day tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and dropped off after the tour. A professional guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing insight and information about the sites you visit. The tour also includes zipline and suspension bridge activities, food and drinks, protective vests, and gratuities.

Meeting and Pickup

You can head directly to your pre-determined pickup location or arrange to be picked up from your hotel. The pickup time varies depending on your pick up location and will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Itinerary

The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in Playa Del Carmen. From there, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle to Sumidero Canyon National Park. Once you arrive, you’ll board a boat for a relaxing cruise on the Grijalva River. After the boat ride, you’ll head to San Juan Chamula, a picturesque colonial town. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the town’s quaint churches and market. The town is famous for its unique blend of Catholic and indigenous beliefs, and you’ll have the chance to observe locals participating in traditional rituals. Throughout the tour, your guide will provide insight into the region’s history and culture. You’ll also have the option to participate in zipline and suspension bridge activities.

What to Bring

Make sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery of Sumidero Canyon and the unique culture of San Juan Chamula. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities, such as hiking and ziplining. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent, as well as a hat and sunglasses.

Booking Your Tour

Ready to plan your day trip to Sumidero Canyon and San Juan Chamula? Book your tour with Viator through this link. Viator is a trusted tour company that offers a wide range of guided tours and activities all over the world. By booking in advance, you’ll be guaranteed a spot on the tour, and you’ll avoid the hassle of last-minute planning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Playa Del Carmen

If you’re planning to visit the beautiful city of Playa del Carmen, Mexico, you may have some questions about this popular tourist destination. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Where is Playa Del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen is located on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, about 68 km (42 miles) south of Cancun. The city is situated in the state of Quintana Roo, along the Caribbean Sea.

2. What is the best time to visit Playa Del Carmen?

The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is between November and April when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. The summer months can be hot and humid, and May to October is considered the rainy season. However, even during the rainy season, the rains don’t last long and the heat can be more bearable.

3. What are some recommended things to do in Playa Del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Some popular things to do in the city include:

• Swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling at the beaches
• Exploring the Mayan ruins at Tulum and Chichen Itza
• Taking a dip in the natural cenotes (sinkholes)
• Shopping and dining at the Fifth Avenue pedestrian street
• Dancing and partying at the various nightclubs and bars
• Trying out water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving

4. Is Playa Del Carmen safe?

Playa del Carmen is considered to be a safe tourist destination by the Mexican government and visitors alike. However, like any other city or tourist destination, you should take some common-sense precautions. Don’t flash your valuables, keep your money and passport in a secure place, and avoid walking alone late at night in deserted or dimly lit areas.

5. Can I drink tap water in Playa Del Carmen?

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Playa del Carmen. Stick to bottled or purified water, which is widely available at supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants.

6. What is the currency used in Playa Del Carmen?

The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso, and it is used in Playa del Carmen. US dollars are also accepted in some establishments, but it’s always better to have pesos on hand to avoid any confusion or extra charges.

7. What is the language spoken in Playa Del Carmen?

The primary language spoken in Playa del Carmen is Spanish. However, many locals and those in the tourist industry are bilingual and speak English fluently. It’s always helpful to learn some basic Spanish phrases to help you get around and interact with locals.

8. How do I get around Playa Del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen is a walkable city, and many attractions and amenities are within walking distance. Taxis are also widely available, and the city has an efficient public transportation system of buses and vans called “colectivos.” These colectivos run along the major highways and can take you to nearby towns and attractions at a reasonable price.

9. What should I pack for my trip to Playa Del Carmen?

Some essential items to pack for your trip to Playa del Carmen include:

• Sunscreen and Aloe Vera gel for sun protection
• Bug spray for protection against mosquito bites
• Beachwear and swimsuits
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
• Lightweight clothing for the humid climate
• A hat or sunglasses for sun protection
• Camera or smartphone for capturing memories

10. What are some good accommodations in Playa Del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen has several types of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some recommended places to stay include:

• Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort
• Riu Palace Riviera Maya
• Mahekal Beach Resort
• Hostel 3B
• Acanto Boutique Hotel and Condominiums

Book Your Tour Now

Playa del Carmen is a beautiful and exciting city that offers something for everyone. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can plan your trip with more confidence and make the most of your time in this paradise. Remember to take some precautions, stay hydrated, and have fun!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Playa Del Carmen

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, Playa Del Carmen might just be the perfect destination for you. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, this beautiful coastal town is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Playa Del Carmen.

1. Hit the Beach

Playa Del Carmen is known for its gorgeous beaches, and for good reason. The town has a number of beautiful stretches of sand, each with its own unique vibe. Some of the most popular beaches in Playa Del Carmen include:

a. Playa Mamitas

Located right in the heart of Playa Del Carmen, Playa Mamitas is the perfect spot for those looking for a lively beach experience. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, and there’s always something going on. If you’re looking to party, this is the beach for you.

b. Playa Punta Esmeralda

If you’re looking for a more peaceful beach experience, head to Playa Punta Esmeralda. This secluded beach is perfect for those looking to relax and soak up the sun. The beach is located a bit outside of the town, so it tends to be less crowded than some of the other beaches in the area.

c. Playacar Beach

Located in the upscale Playacar neighborhood, Playacar Beach is a quiet and peaceful beach that’s perfect for families. The beach is surrounded by private villas and resorts, and there are plenty of opportunities for water sports.

2. Explore The Mayan Ruins

Just a short distance from Playa Del Carmen, you’ll find a number of Mayan ruins that are well worth a visit. Some of the most popular ruins in the area include:

a. Chichen Itza

One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is an absolute must-visit for anyone traveling to Playa Del Carmen. Located about two and a half hours from the town, the massive ruins are incredibly impressive and offer a unique glimpse into Mayan history and culture.

b. Tulum

Located just 45 minutes from Playa Del Carmen, the Tulum ruins are well worth a visit. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the ruins are incredibly picturesque and offer a unique opportunity to learn about Mayan history.

3. Go Scuba Diving

Playa Del Carmen is home to some of the best scuba diving in the world, with crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, there are plenty of dive sites in the area that cater to all levels. Some of the most popular dive sites in Playa Del Carmen include:

a. Cozumel

Located just a short boat ride from Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel is a world-renowned scuba diving destination. The island is home to a number of dive sites, including the famous Palancar Reef.

b. Cenotes

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to a network of underground rivers and caves, known as cenotes. These unusual dive sites offer a unique diving experience, with crystal-clear waters and an abundance of underwater wildlife.

4. Enjoy The Nightlife

Playa Del Carmen is known for its vibrant and lively nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular nightlife spots in Playa Del Carmen include:

a. 5th Avenue

Located in the heart of the town, 5th Avenue is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a night out on the town.

b. Coco Bongo

If you’re looking for a wild and crazy night out, head to Coco Bongo. This nightclub is known for its energetic shows and lively atmosphere.

c. La Vaquita

Located just a few blocks from the beach, La Vaquita is a popular nightclub that’s known for its fun, party atmosphere.

Book Your Tour Now

Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the beach, explore Mayan ruins, go scuba diving, or party the night away, Playa Del Carmen has something for everyone. With so much to see and do, you’ll never be bored during your visit to this beautiful coastal town.