Quintana Roo
· MX

Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo, Mexico

Dive into Paradise: Discover Quintana Roo, Mexico Quintana Roo, nestled on the Yucatan Peninsula's eastern coast, is more than just stunning beaches – it's a tapestry woven from ancient Mayan history, vibrant culture, an…

#Caribbean coast#Mayan ruins#Tropical beaches#Eco-tourism#Yucatan Peninsula
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Quintana Roo.

Top Hotels in Quintana Roo

Top Flights to Quintana Roo

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Quintana Roo.

Tours

Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Tulum

Visit the awe-inspiring Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Visit to Chichen Itza

Explore the iconic archaeological site, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Coba Pyramid Climbing

Climb the ancient Nohoch Mul pyramid and enjoy panoramic jungle views.

Shopping

Shopping in Playa del Carmen

Discover a mix of luxury boutiques and local artisan shops on the famous Fifth Avenue.

Shopping in Cancun

Explore luxury shopping malls and bustling markets in Cancun.

Outdoor

Snorkeling at Xel-Há Park

Dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore vibrant marine life.

Cenote Ik Kil Swimming

Swim in the stunning open-air cenote surrounded by hanging vines and waterfalls.

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Safari

Enjoy a safari through a UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse flora and fauna.

Explore Cozumel's Marine Parks

Delve into Cozumel's underwater parks for an unforgettable diving experience.

Adventure in Xcaret Eco Park

Immerse yourself in Mexican culture, nature, and adventure at Xcaret.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Quintana Roo.

Currency
$ | MXN | Mexican Peso
Population
1.9 million
Languages
Spanish, Yucatec Maya, English

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Quintana Roo.

What people love

Quintana Roo, Mexico, is a popular travel destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse range of activities. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Quintana Roo:

  1. Stunning Beaches: Quintana Roo is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, including the famous Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun. Visitors can relax on the soft white sand, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a variety of water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding.

  2. Mayan Ruins: The region is rich in Mayan history and culture, with archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba located within easy reach. Visitors can explore these ancient ruins, learn about the fascinating history of the Mayan civilization, and marvel at the impressive architecture and structures.

  3. Ecotourism: Quintana Roo is known for its diverse ecosystems, including lush jungles, mangroves, and coral reefs. Travelers can participate in ecotourism activities such as hiking through the jungle, birdwatching, swimming in cenotes (natural sinkholes), and exploring the underwater world while snorkeling or diving.

  4. Delicious Cuisine: Mexican cuisine is world-renowned for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and Quintana Roo is no exception. Visitors can savor traditional dishes such as ceviche, tacos, tamales, and fresh seafood, as well as enjoy a variety of street food and local specialties.

  5. Adventure Activities: Quintana Roo offers a wide range of adventure activities for thrill-seekers, including zip-lining through the jungle, ATV tours, jungle treks, and swimming with whale sharks or sea turtles. There are also opportunities for fishing, boating, and sailing along the coast.

  6. Warm Climate: Quintana Roo enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers. The region receives plenty of sunshine, which is perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Overall, traveling to Quintana Roo offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, adventure, and relaxation, making it a fantastic destination for all types of travelers.

What to know

Traveling to Quintana Roo, Mexico, especially popular tourist destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen, does have some potential cons that travelers should be aware of:

  1. Hurricane Season: Quintana Roo is located in a region prone to hurricanes, with the official hurricane season running from June to November. Travelers should be prepared for potential disruptions to their plans due to severe weather conditions.

  2. Crowds: Quintana Roo is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons. This can lead to crowded beaches, long lines at attractions, and difficulty finding accommodations if not booked in advance.

  3. High Tourist Prices: Due to its popularity, Quintana Roo can be relatively expensive for tourists, especially in areas like Cancun and Tulum. Prices for accommodations, activities, and dining can be higher compared to other parts of Mexico.

  4. Environmental Impact: The high volume of tourists visiting Quintana Roo can have a negative impact on the environment, particularly on fragile ecosystems like coral reefs. Travelers should be mindful of their impact and practice responsible tourism.

  5. Safety Concerns: While Quintana Roo is generally considered safe for tourists, like any travel destination, there are risks to be aware of. Travelers should take precautions against petty crime, avoid isolated areas at night, and be cautious when engaging in water activities.

  6. Limited Authentic Cultural Experience: In some of the more touristy areas of Quintana Roo, visitors may find that the experience is more catered towards tourists, with less opportunity to engage with the local culture and traditions. Travelers seeking a more authentic Mexican experience may need to venture off the beaten path.

Overall, while Quintana Roo offers beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, travelers should be aware of these potential cons and plan accordingly to have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Quintana Roo is a state located on the eastern part of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Its history is rich and diverse, shaped by ancient civilizations, colonial influences, and modern developments.

Pre-Columbian Era

  • Maya Civilization: The region was originally inhabited by the Maya civilization, which thrived from around 2000 BC until the arrival of the Spanish. Quintana Roo was home to several important Maya cities, including Tulum and Cobá, which are now significant archaeological sites and tourist attractions.

Spanish Colonial Period

  • 16th Century: The Spanish conquest of the Yucatán Peninsula began in the early 16th century. However, due to its dense jungles and resistance from the Maya people, Quintana Roo was one of the last areas to be fully subdued.
  • 1847–1901 Caste War: The Caste War of Yucatán was a major indigenous revolt against European-descended populations in the Yucatán, including Quintana Roo. The war resulted in significant depopulation and destruction in the region.

20th Century Developments

  • 1902: Quintana Roo was established as a Mexican territory, named after Andrés Quintana Roo, a prominent figure in Mexico’s independence movement.
  • 1931–1974: Quintana Roo was demoted from a territory to a part of the state of Yucatán but regained its status as a separate territory later.
  • 1974: Quintana Roo achieved statehood on October 8, 1974, becoming the 31st state of Mexico.

Modern Era

  • Tourism Boom: In the latter half of the 20th century, the development of Cancun as a major tourist destination transformed Quintana Roo's economy. Tourism became the primary economic driver, with the Riviera Maya emerging as a luxury tourist corridor.
  • Economic and Environmental Challenges: Rapid growth has brought economic opportunities as well as environmental challenges, including issues related to urbanization, infrastructure development, and the conservation of natural resources.

Significant Historical Figures

  • Andrés Quintana Roo: The state is named after this influential lawyer, writer, and politician who played a key role in Mexico’s War of Independence.

Important Landmarks

  • Tulum: A well-preserved coastal Maya site, known for its stunning location overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
  • Cobá: An ancient Maya city with the largest network of stone causeways of the ancient Mayan world.
  • Chichén Itzá: While not within Quintana Roo, it is in close proximity and often associated with the region's rich Maya heritage.
  • Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its diverse ecosystems and cultural significance.
  • Cancun and the Riviera Maya: Modern tourist destinations known for their beaches, resorts, and vibrant nightlife.

Quintana Roo continues to be a dynamic region, balancing economic growth with the preservation of its rich cultural and natural heritage.