If you’re looking for a quick, scenic look at Cancun from a different perspective, the El Sol De Cancun panoramic tour might catch your eye. Located in the bustling hotel zone, this aerial ride promises panoramic views of Cancun’s beaches, lagoon, and skyline in a compact 12-minute experience. While some visitors find it a fun way to snap photos, others have noted it’s best suited for those comfortable with heights and crowds.
We like that this tour offers stunning vistas without a hefty price tag — at just under $20 per person, it’s one of the more accessible ways to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Cancun. The air-conditioned cabins with background music and external doors that close give a comfortable, controlled environment. However, since the tour lasts only about 12 minutes, it’s a brief experience that might leave some wanting more.
If you’re eager to see Cancun from above, enjoy easy access, and don’t mind the crowds or the quick pace, this tour could be a good addition to your trip. But if you have a fear of heights or prefer longer, less crowded rides, you might want to explore other options.
Key Points

- Affordable and quick: Just about 12 minutes for under $20, offering excellent value for a scenic snapshot.
- Great for photos: The panoramic views of Cancun’s beaches, lagoon, and cityscape make it perfect for capturing memorable photos.
- Comfortable environment: Air-conditioned cabins with ambient music and external doors that open from the outside enhance the experience.
- Popular and accessible: Located in Plaza La Isla with daily hours from 2 PM to 11 PM, it’s easy to fit into your schedule.
- Limited duration: The brief 12-minute ride may satisfy curiosity but leaves little time to soak in the scenery beyond a quick glance.
- Not suited for everyone: Those with claustrophobia or a fear of heights are advised to consider other options.
What to Expect on the Tour
The main attraction here is the Sky Wheel Cancun, situated in Plaza La Isla, which is a familiar sight in many big cities like Chicago and Paris, but rare in Cancun. The cabins hold up to 6 adults comfortably, or 8 if you’re traveling with kids, making it a cozy but not cramped space for your ride. Each cabin features air conditioning, a sound system with ambient music, and doors that open from the outside, which adds a sense of safety and control.
Once aboard, you’ll experience roughly four laps of the wheel, each lasting about 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, you’ll get a breathtaking view of Cancun’s skyline, the Caribbean Sea, and the Nichupte Lagoon. The open doors allow you to snap photos easily, and the cabin’s transparent sides give an unobstructed view no matter where you’re seated.
The tour operates daily, from mid-afternoon to late evening, giving you flexibility whether you want a daytime view or to catch the sunset. The certification by Tüv Rheinland reassures visitors that safety standards are maintained, which is important given the height of 70 meters (around 229 feet).
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cancun.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The journey begins in Plaza La Isla, a lively shopping and entertainment hub. After purchasing your ticket, you’ll board one of the 41 cabins, each designed for comfort and safety. As you ascend, the views unfold in all directions—the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, the sprawling hotel zone, and the lush, urban surroundings.
The lap duration of 10-12 minutes might seem brief, but it’s enough to grab some stunning photos and get a sense of Cancun’s geography. Multiple reviews mention the crisp, clean cabins and the enjoyable environment created by background music. One reviewer praised the “amazing view of all Cancun,” and noted that there’s “enough time to capture all views,” which is true if you’re quick with your camera.
Once the ride concludes, you’ll disembark back in Plaza La Isla, feeling that brief but visually rewarding experience is worth the modest fee. Keep in mind that the fast pace might leave some wishing for a longer ride, but as a quick sightseeing highlight, it hits the mark.
The Experience From a Traveler’s Perspective

Based on reviews, this tour tends to satisfy those looking for an inexpensive but scenic way to get a bird’s-eye view. One traveler called it a “clean cabin, amazing view of all Cancun,” emphasizing the quality of the environment and the view itself. Another mentioned great customer service, which is always a bonus when dealing with ticketing and access.
That said, some visitors expressed frustration about no-shows or difficulties with refunds, especially if they didn’t show up or cancel within the 24-hour window. It’s worth noting that cancellations are free if done more than 24 hours in advance, which offers some flexibility.
Because of the short duration, it’s best suited for those who want a quick thrill or a photo opportunity rather than a long, immersive experience. It’s also one of the few attractions with limited group size (up to 6 travelers), which keeps the experience fairly intimate but also means it can get crowded during busy hours.
Practical Details That Matter

- Price: At about $19.88 per person, it’s a good value for a quick scenic experience. Considering the view and comfort, many find it worth the cost.
- Duration: 12 minutes of actual ride time, which is enough for a snapshot but not a full sightseeing tour.
- Timing: Open daily from 2 PM to 11 PM, offering flexibility for afternoon or evening rides.
- Capacity: 41 cabins, each with a capacity of 6 people, allowing a total capacity of 250 people per tour.
- Location: Situated in Plaza La Isla, a popular shopping and entertainment center, easy to access.
- Safety: Certified by Tüv Rheinland, giving peace of mind to travelers concerned about safety at height.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Cancun without spending too much time or money. It’s great for families with children, especially since the cabins are designed for comfort, and the views are spectacular.
It also appeals to photographers and social media enthusiasts eager to capture Cancun’s skyline from above. Those who enjoy short, vibrant experiences and are comfortable with heights will find it a worthwhile addition.
However, travelers with claustrophobia or a fear of heights should carefully consider whether a 70-meter ride with external doors is suitable for them. If you’re looking for a longer or more immersive experience, you might prefer other tours or attractions.
Final Thoughts
The El Sol De Cancun panoramic tour offers an affordable, efficient way to see parts of Cancun from above. Its key strength is the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the city, which many reviews highlight as a highlight. The comfortable cabins with climate control and background music create a pleasant environment, and the short duration makes it an easy addition to a busy day.
For travelers who love taking photos, enjoy brief scenic experiences, or want a visual overview of Cancun’s layout, this is a good pick. Its cost-effective price point makes it accessible, but keep in mind it’s a quick ride that’s more about a snapshot than an in-depth tour.
If your goal is a relaxed, long-lasting view or a quiet escape from crowds, you might look elsewhere. But if you’re after a fun, affordable, bird’s-eye glance at Cancun, this tour will likely leave you with great photos and a memorable quick thrill.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the cabins can seat up to 8 with children, and the views are family-friendly and photogenic. Just ensure the children are comfortable with heights.
How long does the ride last?
The actual ride comprises about four laps, each lasting roughly 10 to 12 minutes, totaling approximately 12 minutes.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.
Is it safe to ride?
Yes, the tour is certified by Tüv Rheinland, which means safety measures are verified for height and installation.
What is the best time to go?
The tour operates from 2 PM to 11 PM daily. For the best lighting and views, late afternoon or sunset hours are popular.
Are the cabins air-conditioned?
Yes, each cabin has air conditioning and ambient music to enhance your experience.
Overall, the El Sol De Cancun panoramic tour offers a quick, scenic glimpse of Cancun that fits well into a busy itinerary. It emphasizes stunning vistas and easy access, making it a worthwhile option for those seeking an inexpensive way to see the city from above.
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