Destinations
Are you planning your vacation to Mexico and have heard about the “Tren Maya”? If you're considering taking a trip aboard Tren Maya, then look no further! Welcome to Taste of Isla's sister site dedicated specifically to providing tourist information on this incredible journey – from reserving tickets and route paths, exploring popular stops along the way, packing tips and more!
Akumal is a small, laid-back beach resort along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. This quiet beach town with its white sand beaches and turquoise blue water, is a popular spot amongst turtle lovers wanting to swim and snorkel with these graceful creatures. Akumal attracts beach lovers and those looking for a less crowded, chilled-out atmosphere, as well as day trippers looking to enjoy this small town.
Cancun is one of Mexico’s most popular resorts, it is a bustling hub with its large international airport and train station, linking visitors to the beautiful beaches and experiences of Playa del Carmen and Tulum, the magical island of Isla Mujeres, as well as the history and culture of the Yucatan Peninsula. However, Cancun also has its own wonders, it is the perfect destination for sun-seekers and fun-seekers. This city on the Caribbean coast is a hot spot for those looking to hit the gorgeous beaches, and then party the night away. Cancun is located on the Caribbean I Route of the Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train”.
The famous archeological site of the prehispanic city of Chichen Itza is located between the quaint and historic cities of Izamal and Valladolid on the Yucatan II Route of the Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train”, in the state of the Yucatan. These ancient Mayan ruins are a must-see destination, perfect for a day trip on the Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train” from the Caribbean coast, or a local town in the Yucatan.
Isla Mujeres, Mexico’s jewel of the Caribbean, is a gorgeous 5-mile-long island, just 20 minutes from Cancun. This magical island is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy white sand beaches and turquoise blue water, getting a slice of paradise on their trip, while witnessing stunning views, including incredible sunrises and sunsets.
Izamal, a charming and peaceful town in the Yucatan state is a must-visit for those visiting the area. Located between the stop of Tixkokob (east of the city of Merida), and the station of the archeological site of Chichen Itza, connecting the routes, Yucatan I Route and Yucatan II Route of the Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train”. Izamal is the perfect destination for history lovers, and those looking to experience the region's rich culture and witness gorgeous architecture. Izamal is known as the ‘Yellow City’ due to its uniquely colored buildings.
Maxcanu is located approximately 40 miles from Yucatan’s capital city of Merida. Maxcanu is a small town, with a stop on the Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train”, located between station stops of Calkini and Uman on the Yucatan I Route. This small town, Situated southwest of the state of Yucatan, Maxcanu is close to the border of the state of Campeche, it is a colonial town with a mixture of historic haciendas, nearby ruins, and caves.
Merida is the vibrant, capital city of Mexico’s state of the Yucatan. Located on the Yucatan I Route of Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train”. This colonial city is steeped in history, Mayan heritage, tradition, and contemporary culture combined; this modern, cosmopolitan city, with both its Mayan, Spanish, and Mexican roots, has lots of places to explore, museums and art galleries, picturesque streets lined with 19th-century mansions, as well as nearby ancient ruins, cenotes, and historic, local towns, and close by beaches … making it one of the peninsula’s most desirable destinations to visit.
Playa del Carmen is one of Mexico’s gems, this fashionable, oceanside resort is a popular and vibrant city that has grown from a small fishing village into a world-famous destination. Located south of Cancun, between the Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train” stations of Puerto Morelos and Tulum, Playa del Carmen lures its visitors in with its selection of beaches, its abundance of restaurants, bars, clubs, entertainment, shopping opportunities, underwater activities, water sports, jungle and nature activities, and so much more. This location is ideal for all travelers from beach-goers, to nature lovers, adventurers, and partiers.
The endearing port town of Puerto Morelos is just a short journey south of Cancun Airport, and north of Playa del Carmen on the Caribbean I Route of Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train”. It is a town split by a highway into two areas with a footbridge connecting the two - Puerto Morelos Puerto (beach side) and Puerto Morelos Pueblo (town side). The Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train” train station of Puerto Morelos is in Puerto Morelos Pueblo. The town is a less crowded destination with a relaxed atmosphere and lots of activities in the ocean and the jungle on offer.
San Francisco de Campeche, better known solely as just Campeche, is the historic capital city of the state of Campeche. San Francisco de Campeche is located on the Campeche Route of the Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train”, situated between the station of the archeological site of Edzna, and the station stop in the city of Tenabo. San Francisco de Campeche, a port town located on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, is rich in history, with stories of ancient Mayan cities, conquest, colonialism, pirates, and more. It is a less visited city, with lots to do and see.
Tixkokob is a small, quaint town, located approximately 14 miles east of Merida. The station stop of Tixkokob is 10 minutes on the Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train”, on the Yucatan I Route from Merida (Teya station). It is located between the cities of Merida and Izamal and is surrounded by nature and historic haciendas offering an insight into the production of sisal or henequen fiber, melipona honey, and the fabrication of hammocks.
The hippy-chic destination of Mexico’s Caribbean, Tulum, is located south of Cancun and Playa del Carmen. With two Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train” stations - in Tulum Pueblo (downtown Tulum), and at Tulum Airport, this destination is a wonderful hub to explore, and also take adventures from. The enchanting town of Tulum is home to some incredible beaches, a famous seaside archaeological site, ancient cenotes, eco and luxury accommodations, high-end boutiques, upscale bars and dining experiences, jungle and beach parties, trendy nightlife, and its boho, chic vibes.
Uman is situated around 19 miles southwest of Merida, the capital city of Yucatan. Although Uman itself may not offer many activities, it serves as an excellent starting point for exploring nearby attractions such as historic haciendas, refreshing cenotes, and other interesting sights. The Uman stop is located between Maxcanu and Merida station in Teya on the Yucatan I Route, also known as the Tren Maya® "Mayan Train". Uman is also on the Ie-Tram electronic bus route, making it possible to get into Merida’s city center, and to Merida’s International Airport easily.
Valladolid is a quant, colonial town in the state of Yucatan. Named one of Mexico’s shining Pueblo Magicos “magic towns”, Valladolid is a charming city jam-packed full of interesting culture and history. With its colorful and colonial architecture, historic buildings, delicious food, and friendly residents, this city is growing in popularity and becoming a desirable destination for visitors to the Yucatan region to explore. Surrounded by refreshing cenotes, and the close-by archeological sites of Ek Balam and Chichen Itza, Valladolid is a great hub for exploring surrounding areas. Still, there is also so much more to do during a visit to this mesmerizing city. Valladolid is located on the Yucatan II Route of Tren Maya®, “Mayan Train”.