Family Riviera Maya: Cenotes, Pyramids, and Turtles

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Mexico's Riviera Maya is the quintessential family paradise: warm, shallow waters, crystal-clear cenotes, Mayan ruins that spark the imagination, and first-class tourist infrastructure. This 6-day itinerary is based in Playa del Carmen as a home base. On the first day, visit Xcaret park, a cross between a water park and a nature reserve with underground rivers, a butterfly pavilion, a coral aquarium, and a Mayan night show. The second day is devoted to Chichén Itzá, one of the new seven wonders, where the ball court and the Kukulcán pyramid fascinate young and old alike. On the way back, a refreshing dip in the Ik Kil cenote. The third day is for swimming with turtles in Akumal, a magical experience in the clear water. Tulum offers postcard-perfect beaches with Mayan ruins right on the cliff edge. And the final day is spent at Xel-Há, the world's largest natural inlet, with unlimited snorkeling among tropical fish. All at a family pace, with poolside siestas and margaritas (for the adults) at sunset.