Things To Do
in Felipe Carrillo Puerto
Felipe Carrillo Puerto is a small city in the southern part of Quintana Roo, named after a 20th‑century Mexican revolutionary. It sits amid lush tropical rainforest and Maya heritage, offering a gateway to cenotes, rivers, and wildlife. The town blends indigenous traditions with warm Yucatec hospitality and colorful markets.
Outside the city, opportunities for cultural immersion and nature adventures await visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by strolling through the vibrant streets of the historic center, where local artisans display their crafts. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like huevos rancheros and fresh fruit. As you walk, take in the colorful murals that tell the story of the town's rich Mayan heritage.
Visit the Museo de la Cultura Maya to delve deeper into the fascinating history of the Mayan civilization. Afterward, relax at the nearby Parque Principal, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while observing the daily life of the locals. Don't forget to explore the nearby market for unique souvenirs and local delicacies.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, sampling regional specialties like cochinita pibil. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, enjoying the lively atmosphere and perhaps catching a local music performance. Cap off the night with a visit to a quaint café for a taste of authentic Mexican coffee.
Rise early and take a short trip to one of the nearby cenotes, such as Cenote Xcanan, where you can swim in the cool, refreshing waters. The morning sun filtering through the trees creates a magical atmosphere perfect for relaxation and exploration. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the water's edge.
Continue your adventure by exploring the lush surroundings of the cenote, where you can hike along well-marked trails and observe local wildlife. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the serenity of the Yucatan jungle. Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the unique geological formations and ecosystems of the area.
Return to Felipe Carrillo Puerto and unwind at your accommodation, perhaps enjoying a swim in the pool. For dinner, try a local taqueria to indulge in authentic tacos filled with fresh ingredients. As the evening winds down, enjoy a quiet night under the stars, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚍Local transit ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🍺Domestic beer | $2-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Maya heritage and local culture
- Budget-friendly destination with natural beauty
- Proximity to cenotes, rivers, and wildlife
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Remote location may require longer travel times
- Fewer English-speaking services in rural areas
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
Places to Visit in Felipe Carrillo Puerto
Visit one of these nice places.
A central, palm-lined plaza with the town’s church and colonial vibes, ideal for golden-hour photography.
Vibrant wooden facades and market life provide rich textures and color.
Reflections, birdlife, and soft light over calm waters make for serene river photography.
Morning light over stalls laden with fruit, textiles, and local life.
Food in Felipe Carrillo Puerto
Felipe Carrillo Puerto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Citrus-marinated grilled pork served with pickled onions and tortillas.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote, wrapped in banana leaf and served with onions.
Fish marinated in achiote and sour orange, then grilled to smoky perfection.
A bright lime-infused chicken soup with tortilla strips and fresh herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, local meats, tortillas, and everyday snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple “Buenos días/tardes/noches.” Use señor/señora with elders; ask permission before taking photos of people; avoid public displays of affection in conservative settings.
Respect Maya traditions and community spaces; dress modestly when visiting villages; seek permission before entering homes.
Safety
Tipping in Felipe Carrillo Puerto
Ensure a smooth experience
10–15% at sit-down restaurants if service isn’t included; small tips to guides and drivers; rounding up taxi fares is appreciated.
Cash (MXN) is widely accepted; some places take USD or credit cards; ATMs are common; smaller vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant days with cooler nights and low rainfall; ideal for city walks and outdoor photography. Humidity is milder than in the wet season.
Hot and very humid with frequent afternoon downpours and possible tropical storms; carry rain gear and insect repellent; landscapes are lush and vibrant.
Felipe Carrillo Puerto at Night
Hiking in Felipe Carrillo Puerto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short nature walks and riverbank trails around Felipe Carrillo Puerto; longer hikes require transportation to other protected areas.
Distant but possible day trips; rainforest hikes and wildlife viewing; requires several hours of driving.
Iconic reserve with guided hikes; far from town but accessible with a multi-hour trip.
Airports
How to reach Felipe Carrillo Puerto by plane.
South of Felipe Carrillo Puerto; connects to Mexico City and regional hubs; taxis and buses available.
Major international hub; longer drive to Felipe Carrillo Puerto but the most options for international travel.
Island airport offering some regional routes; travel via ferry or land routes to the mainland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant Maya presence with distinctive language, crafts, and customs.
A mix of Spanish-speaking communities; diverse cultural influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal play are common.
Widely played in towns and schools; community leagues exist.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Felipe Carrillo Puerto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be adapted by omitting meat; look for beans, rice, corn tortillas, and salads; communicate clearly with cooks, and opt for vegetarian soups or salads.