19 Adventurous Things to Do in Cancun

1. Swim with Whale Sharks

Whale Shark Near Cancun

If you’re in Cancun between July and September, do something exceptional and swim with whale sharks. This is by far one of my favorite adventurous things to do in Cancun.

You’ll board a boat with a small group and be taken out where the whale sharks are feeding.

There are strict limitations on the number of people who can be in the water at one time, so people will take turns jumping in.

You’ll swim alongside these magnificent creatures while your guide gets some epic photographs of you both.

Tours fill up so be sure to book in advance. Trust me, this bucket list adventure is not to be missed.

2. Tour the Jungle at Night

There’s nothing quite like seeing the jungle at night. This experience involves riding in an amphibious vehicle through jungle trails lit only by torches.

Additionally, there are opportunities to zipline under the starry skies, providing an exhilarating way to see the area from above.

If you enjoy ziplining during the day, it’s nothing compared to doing it at night.

After the activities, the tour concludes with a buffet, where you can relax and refuel with a variety of delicious food options.

3. Go Ziplining

If you’re a thrill-seeker, consider ziplining, one of the most popular outdoor activities in Cancun. Ziplining is fun with a group or as a solo activity.

Xplor Water Park is often called the most popular zipline park in the world. What sets Xplor apart is its incorporation of water elements into the ziplining experience.

One of the lines features an exciting waterslide, adding an extra splash of adventure to your journey through the air.

Additionally, the park offers two water landings, a thrilling way to conclude your zipline adventure.

4. Try Flyboarding

Flyboarding offers an adrenaline-filled adventure unlike any other. It’s a unique way to experience the sensation of flying, all while enjoying the spectacular coastal views of Cancun.

The great thing about flyboarding is its accessibility. With a bit of guidance and practice, even beginners can find themselves gliding through the air.

Flyboarding is perfect if you’re looking for something different to do in Cancun. It’s a chance to break away from the usual beach activities and try something truly exhilarating.

5. Go Snorkeling at Night

You can’t visit Cancun without doing some snorkeling. To make snorkeling even better, try doing it at night.

You’ll see some fascinating sea creatures that only come out after dark.

If you’re lucky you may even see some bioluminescence, making for a truly magical experience.

6. Go Scuba Diving

Cancun may not be as famous for its scuba diving as Cozumel is, but it does have some fantastic dive sites.

From the underground caves to the Mesoamerican Reef, the largest reef in the Western Hemisphere, there are many options to choose from.

If you’re a certified diver, don’t miss the chance to visit the Underwater Art Museum (MUSA) exhibit by Jason de Caires Taylor.

This innovative museum, located off the coast of Cancun and Isla Mujeres, showcases over 485 sculptures submerged in the ocean.

Designed with ecological materials, these sculptures actively promote coral growth, developing into artificial coral reefs.

This underwater museum not only offers a unique diving experience but also contributes to marine conservation by integrating live coral cuttings rescued from damaged reefs.

If you’re not certified yet, sign up for a Discover Diving course. After some instruction and practice, you’ll do an actual dive. It’s a great way to see if diving is for you.

7. Swim in Cenotes

Cenotes are some of the most amazing natural scenes you could experience. A natural wonder, cenotes are natural underwater pools full of cool freshwater.

Cenotes are perfect for water activities with your family. You can swim, paddleboard, snorkel, or even scuba dive.

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is dotted with hundreds of cenotes to explore. Be sure to visit at least one while you’re here.

8. Climb a Mayan Pyramid

If you’re up for a unique adventure near Cancun, Coba is your go-to destination. Nestled in the Mexican jungle, Coba’s ancient Mayan ruins are a sight to behold.

The real highlight here is Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula. Unlike many other Mayan sites, at Coba, you can actually climb this pyramid.

As you ascend the 130 steps of Nohoch Mul, you’re literally stepping back in time. Reaching the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle canopy – a perfect spot for some unforgettable photos.

Coba offers a more off-the-beaten-path feel compared to other Mayan sites, giving you a chance to explore in a less crowded, more natural environment.

9. Learn Wing Foiling

Discover the thrill of wing foiling in Cancun, the latest watersport craze that’s taking the coast by storm.

Think of it as kitesurfing’s cooler cousin, where you get to ride the waves with a unique blend of surfing and sailing.

Wing foiling is open to just about anyone who can swim. It’s perfect for families, with kids as young as 8 able to join in the fun.

The beauty of this sport lies in its simplicity and the ease with which people of all skill levels can participate.

The calm, waist-deep, and wave-free waters of Cancun’s Isla Blanca are perfect for mastering the basics without the intimidation of big waves, making it a safe and enjoyable learning environment.

Whether you’re looking to try a new family activity or simply want to experience the latest in watersports, Wing Foiling in Cancun offers an exciting, easy-to-learn, and fun-filled adventure on the water.

10. Explore an Underground River

Xcaret Park is an eco-archeological theme park located in the Riviera Maya, on the coastline of Quintana Roo. Xcaret Park receives over a million visitors annually and is often referred to as the Disney World of Cancun. 

Xcaret has three rivers, the Blue River, the Pre-Hispanic River, and the Manatee River. Imagine swimming through liquid glass while getting a close-up look at fossilized coral formations as you float through natural caves.

Xcaret has many other things to see, including a Mayan village and a diverse range of animal exhibits, including a butterfly pavilion, jaguar island, and a sea turtle conservation project.

Beyond its cultural and natural attractions, Xcaret offers an array of exciting activities. Adventure seekers can embark on exhilarating experiences like zip-lining, and snorkeling alongside sharks and stingrays.

Xcaret sells out so it’s best to buy your ticket in advance.

11. Take Surfing Lessons

Cancun, with its gentle and moderate waves, offers the ideal environment for those looking to learn to surf.

The calm waters provide a safe and encouraging setting for beginners of all ages, starting from as young as 4 years old.

Professional instructors guide you through the basics, ensuring a fun and safe learning experience.

These lessons include everything from balancing techniques to wave-catching strategies, tailored to suit all skill levels.

12. Ride a Camel

Embark on a unique adventure in Cancun with a camel ride. This is an adventure your family will never forget.

You’ll start by going through the jungle on a mode of transport that’s anything but ordinary.

As you emerge from the jungle, the scenery shifts dramatically to the open, sun-kissed beaches.

Here, the adventure continues as you ride along the shore, with the ocean waves providing a stunning backdrop.

This camel ride offers a unique adventure, combining the thrill of jungle exploration with the serene beauty of beachside vistas, all from the unique vantage point atop a camel.

This experience in Cancun stands out for its adventurous spirit and the unforgettable memories it promises.

13. Go Jet Skiing

Jet skiing through the mangroves of Nichupte Lagoon is a fun way to explore this natural wonder.

As you maneuver your jet ski through the calm waters of the lagoon, you’ll navigate a network of channels lined with mangroves.

The experience of jet skiing in Nichupte Lagoon is a blend of excitement and exploration.

You have the chance to see a different side of Cancun, one that many visitors don’t get to experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned jet skier or a first-timer, the mangroves of Nichupte Lagoon provide a scenic and memorable backdrop for your adventure.

14. Go Deep Sea Fishing

Deep sea fishing in Cancun is an adventure that takes you beyond the picturesque beaches into the thrilling world of offshore fishing.

This experience is not just about the catch. It’s about the chase, the anticipation, and the thrill of reeling in some of the ocean’s most sought-after species.

In the deep waters off the coast of Cancun, you have the chance to catch marlin, tuna, sailfish, and barracuda, among others.

Each of these fish offers a unique challenge, making the experience exciting for both novice and experienced anglers.

Marlin and sailfish, known for their impressive size and power, provide a particularly exhilarating challenge, often requiring skill and patience to reel in.

Whether you come back with a big catch or just tales of the one that got away, it’s an adventure that will stay with you long after you’ve left the waters.

15. Ride an ATV

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or looking to try something different, an ATV ride in Cancun is a great way to explore.

This adventure takes you off the beaten path and into the heart of the Mayan jungle, offering a thrilling ride through some of the area’s most challenging terrains.

As you maneuver your ATV, you’ll tackle a variety of obstacles, from muddy paths to rugged trails, each providing a unique challenge and a rush of excitement.

The dense jungle scenery whizzes by as you navigate through tight turns and over bumps, immersing you fully in the wild beauty of the region.

This isn’t just a leisurely ride; it’s an opportunity to test your driving skills and experience the jungle in a way that few other activities can offer.

An ATV ride in Cancun is more than just a tour. It’s an adventure that combines the thrill of speed with the beauty of nature, making for an unforgettable experience in the Mayan jungle.

16. Visit Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is a treasure trove of fascinating stories and awe-inspiring structures. It’s a World Heritage Site and was one of the most significant cities in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Here’s what makes it an adventurous spot: You get to explore the iconic El Castillo, a pyramid that reveals the Mayan calendar through its architecture.

Then there’s the Great Ball Court, where the Maya played a game that was more than just sport. It was a ritual.

Climbing up the structures isn’t allowed anymore, but the sheer size and scale of these ancient wonders are enough to give you a sense of their historical grandeur.

Chichen Itza is a couple of hours’ drive from Cancun, but it’s worth every minute. It’s an adventure that combines history, culture, and a bit of mystery, making your Cancun trip truly unforgettable.

17. Try Standup Paddleboarding

Connect with nature as you indulge in a two-hour guided morning paddleboarding session in the tranquil waters of Cancun.

This peaceful yet invigorating activity offers a unique way to experience the area’s natural beauty.

As you stand on your board, gently gliding over the crystal-clear water, you’ll find a sense of serenity and connection with the environment.

Paddleboarding in Cancun is ideal for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned paddler or trying it for the first time. The calm waters provide a stable platform to learn and enjoy.

18. Go Kayaking in Nichupte Lagoon

Kayaking in Nichupte Lagoon offers a serene yet adventurous way to experience Cancun’s natural side.

Paddling through the calm, clear waters of the lagoon, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush mangroves and vibrant wildlife.

As you glide across the surface, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a diverse array of birds and aquatic creatures in their natural habitat.

The quiet of the kayak allows for close-up encounters without disturbing the wildlife.

Exploring Nichupte Lagoon by kayak also gives you access to areas that are otherwise inaccessible, revealing hidden corners and secluded waterways.

The mangrove tunnels, in particular, are a unique feature, offering a shaded and intimate experience as you navigate through their narrow passages.

This kayaking adventure combines physical activity with the tranquility of being on the water, making it a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. It’s a chance to see a different side of Cancun, one that’s away from the crowds and close to nature.

19. Go Parasailing

Parasailing in Cancun is an unforgettable way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Mexican Caribbean from a bird’s eye view.

Parasailing is a safe and accessible activity, suitable for almost all ages and fitness levels.

You’re securely harnessed and attached to a parachute, which is towed by a boat, allowing for a smooth ascent and descent.

The experience is both exhilarating and calming, making it a perfect activity for those looking to add a bit of adventure to their vacation.