Overview

A few miles west of Bacalar, Chetumal begins an area of Mayan settlement known to archaeologists as the Río Bec region. It’s the state capital of Quintana Roo, but Chetumal actually feels more Caribbean than like a trip to Mexico. That’s because it’s the gateway to Belize. The protected natural areas that surround exciting adventures and marvelous landscapes, as well as the unusual architecture, await all your dreams in this Mexico vacation.

The numerous ruins that stretch far into the state of Campeche are intriguing for their heavily stylized, lavishly decorated architecture. The excellent, interactive Museo de la Cultura Maya offers fascinating insights for following the dramatic Río Bec ruin route. The vine-strewn ruins are also rich in wildlife, making you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a lost world. Nearby are the excellent Costa Maya ruins, amazing jungle and the border to neighboring Belize.

You’ll also find a number of waterfront parks as the Bay of Chetumal surrounds the city on three sides. Tours include the fascinating Kohunlich Mayan ruins; Dzibanché; and Kinichná, a trio dubbed the “Valley of the Masks.” Chetumal is also one of the best places for seafood in the region with its majestic view of the ocean. All of which makes Chetumal a fantastic option for your dream Mexico vacation.

KNOW BEFORE VISITING
Before you set out for Chetumal, here are some tips to help you enjoy lifelong memories on your vacation in Mexico:

Entry Requirements - Your trip to Mexico requires a passport.
Language - The official language in Mexico is Spanish, and most people speak it as a first language. However, about 23 percent of the population speaks other indigenous native languages.
Time - Chetumal is Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Money - The Mexican peso is the local currency.
Weather - The warm Caribbean Sea contributes to the warm and humid climate. Average temperatures range from 78°F to 80°F (25.5°C to 26.5°C) and low temperatures ranging from 54°F to 57°F (12°C to 14°C). Highest monthly average rainfall is 6.7 inches (17 centimeters), occurring in September.
Water - Some resorts and hotels have purified water, but bottled water is recommended. Avoid tap water.
Transportation - Taxis aren’t as plentiful in Chetumal as in other Mexico vacation spots, but they are available. Bus service is also limited. People do use buses to travel between Cancun and Chetumal, as well as over the border to Belize.
Dress - Chetumal is hot and humid. Wear lightweight and loose clothing and comfortable shoes for walking in the city or the nearby Costa Maya ruins.
Safety - There aren’t a lot of tourists, but Chetumal is quite safe. Taxis don’t usually drive you to places, resulting in more expensive fares, than where you wanted to go.