Kombi Photo Spots in the Riviera Maya (and How to Shoot Them Respectfully)
The best Kombi photos in the Riviera Maya happen at campsites by the sea, under palms, on paved jungle roads and at night with the roof up. Shoot early or late for soft light, park only where it's allowed, never drive onto beaches or dirt roads, and ask before photographing on private property.
A vintage Volkswagen Kombi is made for photos. The colours, the round headlights, the pop-up roof against a jungle or a turquoise sea. But the best shots aren’t about finding a secret spot; they come from good light, a bit of patience and respect for the places you visit. Here’s where travellers get their favourite pictures, and the rules that keep it that way.
Know your Kombi’s best angles
Each van has its own look:
- The Kiwi (1983) is green, and it shines against white sand and blue water. Side-on shots by the sea work beautifully.
- The Orange (1976) is orange and white, so it stands out against green jungle. A jungle road or palm trees behind it are perfect.
Meet both on the Kombis page.
1. Campsites by the sea
Most of the classic “Kombi on the beach” photos are taken at campsites where you’re allowed to park near the water. Places real guests have slept include Chamicos in Bahía Solimán, Xpu-Ha and Paa Mul. You park, open the side door, and the scene is set.
Tip: sunrise. The Caribbean coast faces east, so the first light falls straight on the van and the sea.
2. Under the palms with a hammock
A hammock between two palms and the Kombi in the background tells the whole story of the trip in one image. Bring your own hammock, ask the campsite where you can hang it and keep the van in the shade: it’s better for the photo and for you.
3. Paved jungle roads
The roads inland, towards Cobá or the cenotes, are lined with jungle. A shot of the van on the shoulder with green all around is a classic.
- Safety first: only stop where you can pull fully off the road with good visibility in both directions.
- Never park on a bend or block traffic for a picture.
- Stay on the asphalt. The Kombis don’t go on dirt roads, except to reach a campsite.
Our guide to driving in the Riviera Maya has more road tips.
4. Pop-up roof and interior shots
Some of the best photos happen inside. The roof open, the bed made, the side door framing the sea or the jungle. Try:
- A wide shot from outside with the roof up and the light on at dusk.
- Breakfast in bed with the door open.
- Details: the steering wheel, the old dashboard, coffee on the gas stove.
5. Night skies
Away from town lights, the stars can be spectacular. Cobá, where travellers stay after sunset, and quiet campsites are good options. Use a small tripod (or rest your phone on the bumper), switch on the van’s LED light inside for a warm glow and keep exposure times long. Read our Cobá by Kombi guide for more on spending the evening there.
6. Near the ruins and cenotes
Ruins like Tulum, Cobá or Chichén Itzá and cenotes such as Casa Cenote or Samulá are beautiful, but they have their own photo rules. Tripods, professional cameras, drones or photo shoots may be restricted or need a permit. Ask at the entrance, and expect to take photos of the van in the car park rather than inside the site. Chichén Itzá is in the state of Yucatán; tell us before your trip if you plan to go.
The photo rules we ask you to follow
- No driving on beaches, sand or dirt tracks. Ever, for any photo.
- Respect private property. Many beachfront spots are private. Don’t enter gates, cross fences or park on private land without permission.
- Drones: check the rules and ask permission. Many natural areas, archaeological sites and private places don’t allow them.
- Leave no trace. Take your rubbish with you and don’t move plants, shells or stones for a better composition.
- Respect people. Ask before photographing locals, especially children.
- Wildlife stays wild. No chasing birds, turtles or iguanas for a picture.
Share your trip
We love seeing your photos of The Kiwi and The Orange. Tag The Kombi Experience when you share them.
Make your own way, and frame it well
The best photo spot is wherever you wake up with the light coming through the door. Explore real routes on the routes page, choose your dates on the booking page and ask Martin for his favourite corners when you pick up the van.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive the Kombi onto the beach for a photo?
No. The Kombis are not driven on sand or dirt roads, except the short stretch needed to reach a campsite. Park where it's allowed and walk the last few metres; the best beach photos are often taken at campsites by the sea.
Can I fly a drone over the Kombi?
Drone rules in Mexico and at many sites (ruins, natural reserves, private land) can be strict. Check the current rules and get permission from the place before flying. We can't advise you that it's allowed.
What's the best time of day for Kombi photos?
Early morning and the hour before sunset. The light is softer, the colours of the van look richer and it's cooler. At night, campsites away from town lights are great for star photos.