by Tamara Iannello

Created on: July 20, 2008   Last Updated: October 09, 2010

Cancun, Mexico is the premiere vacation destination on the Caribbean. Besides the perfect white sand beaches, warm Caribbean water, and ideal weather, Cancun offers many opportunities to experience the beauty and history that the Yucatan Peninsula has to offer. Here's a few of the fun-filled adventure tours that await you in Cancun.

Chichen Itza: This tour is a must for any history enthusiast! Take a day trip to Chichen Itza, the ancient capital of the Mayan empire. Tour the Kukulcan Pyramid, the Observatory, the Nunnery, and the Ball Court, and learn of the Mayan civilization from a bilingual guide. Air conditioned bus transportation is provided, but the site does get hot, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and a bottle of water or two. Comfortable walking shoes are also important, as you will spend quite a bit of time exploring the ruins.

Scuba Diving: The waters off Cancun are home to the Great Mayan Reef, the second largest reef in the world. The water is warm and clear, making this one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world. If you are not certified, there are many outfitters that provide lessons, pool practice, then close supervision at the reef. You must be at least 12 years old to dive, and free of heart and respiratory problems. Diving is not recommended for pregnant women or persons with epilepsy. You should allow for 24 hours between the completion of your dive and your flight home.

Swimming with the Dolphins: This is truly an unforgettable experience. Interact and swim with two dolphins in the "Dolphinaris" inside the Wet and Wild Water Park. The price includes 50 minutes with the dolphins, plus the rest of the day to enjoy the water park. You must be at least 4 feet tall to participate; pregnant women are not allowed in the water with the dolphins.

Dinner Cruise: For a fun-filled evening, embark on one of the many dinner cruises in the Cancun area. Choose from a few different themes, including pirate themed and carnival themed cruises. Most are a buffet style dinner (one offers steak or lobster), open bar, live music, and excellent entertainment. Cruises last about 3 hours.

Submarine tour: For those who want to enjoy the beauty of the Great Mayan Reef, yet stay dry, try a tour on a glass bottom boat outfitted to emulate a submarine. You'll not only get spectacular views of the reef, but also expert information about the reef and its inhabitants. Perfect for those who are curious about marine ecology but don't want to immerse themselves in it.

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