Puerto Morelos to Coba and Playa del Carmen: Private day trip

Founded around the 1st century BC, the Mayan city of Coba was a regional powerhouse thanks to its agricultural holdings. At its peak around 900 AD, the 80 km² settlement was home to an estimated 50,000 inhabitants. While its importance dwindled following a power struggle with Chichén Itzá, Coba remained in use up until the arrival of the Spanish. Today, the excavated parts of the site have revealed the largest network of roads in the Mayan world. These ancient highways connected Coba with other Mayan cities, and all emanate from the central pyramid. The Ixmoja pyramid, located in the Nohuch Mul temple group, is the tallest in the Northern Yucatan at 42 meters (138 feet) high, and offers amazing views of the entire archaeological site for those who brave its steep set of 120 steps.

Placed between tourism Goliath, Cancun, and renowned retreat, Tulum, ‘Playa’ visitors are afforded a plethora of activities, attractions, and excursions. Remarkable theme park, Xcaret, and modern-day paradise, Cozumel, are just a stone’s throw away. The town is bookended by the revered Caribbean Sea and the lush rainforests of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, both of which spoil the area with a bounty of cenotes, coral reefs, and wildlife to discover. On arrival, head to the center of town and stroll down Avenida Quinta (5th Avenue). This pedestrian-only street is a hotspot for restaurants, bars and boutiques. Here, you’ll get a real taste of Mexico, with authentic food tours and traditional cooking classes, and at night, this corridor comes alive as bars and clubs open out to the street for una gran fiesta! In need of tranquility, away from the crowds? Look no further than Punta Esmeralda. Make your way along the beach and you’ll find this serene alcove on the shore, fringed with palm trees and accompanied by a small natural pool called ‘Cenotito’. From the seafront, snorkels, jet skis, and diving tours are all available at your leisure. A trip of a lifetime, in Playa del Carmen!