Do you need cash in Riviera Maya?

Cash or credit: the main credit cards are accepted practically everywhere, except in small street stalls and smaller shops, so take some money (pesos) with you, especially on excursions (to buy water or some crafts, etc.). ATMs: you have ATMs at your disposal in many places of Cancun and the Riviera Maya.



People Also Ask

While U.S. dollars are often accepted in the Riviera Maya, you will generally get a better deal by paying in pesos as explained below.

MORE DETAILS

Cash is a necessity in Cancun, given that many restaurants and gift shops don't accept credit cards. Like many other airports around the world, the Cancun airport is jam-packed with money exchange kiosks looking to convert your money into Mexican pesos.

MORE DETAILS

A credit card will make the most sense for larger purchases and you'll likely need one for hotels. You'll always need cash to make everyday purchases.

MORE DETAILS

While some merchants in Mexico may accept US Dollars, it is not widely accepted and you may receive a poor exchange rate. It's recommended to use Mexican Pesos when in Mexico.

MORE DETAILS

The best currency to bring to Mexico is a mix of pesos and US dollars. Use the dollars to pay for tours, entrance fees, accommodation, and travel. For everything else use pesos.

MORE DETAILS

For traveling (even on a backpacker budget), it is perhaps better to consider what 500 pesos (or $25 will buy). That is enough to rent a car for a way (minus non-specified expenses). It is also enough for dormitory accommodation in some of the cheapest hostels in Mexico City for two nights (around $8 per night).

MORE DETAILS

Before your trip, exchange money at your bank or credit union, which likely offers better rates and fewer and/or lower fees. See if your bank or credit union will buy back any leftover foreign currency for when you return.

MORE DETAILS

For smaller portions, such as a 12-oz can, 20-oz bottle, or 1-liter bottle, the price ranges between 10 pesos to 20 pesos, but almost always under $1 USD. As mentioned earlier, drinking a 2-liter of Coke is a daily ritual for many Mexican nationals.

MORE DETAILS

In Mexico, a good rule of thumb for tips is to leave 10-15% of the bill. 50 pesos would be a standard tip for a bill that was around 500 pesos. For example, if you go out for dinner and get drinks, you should expect to spend around 400 MXN. That would mean your tip would be between 40-60 MXN.

MORE DETAILS