ECOTOURISM

In Cozumel you?ll find various places to do ecotourism outings. You can visit nature reserves with indigenous flora and fauna, lagoons surrounded by regional plant species and coral reefs off the coast.

Parque Natural Chankanaab ? Located at the Chankanaab Lagoon on the southeastern part of the island, 9 km (5.5 mi) from the town of San Miguel. This protected area has a body of water that is connected to the sea by an underground tunnel. Here you can visit a magnificent botanical garden, which has various tropical plant species such as orchids, bamboo and 60 different palm varieties. In addition, you can catch a sea lion and exotic bird show or go on an unforgettable photo safari.

Reserva Ecologica Parque Punta Sur ? Located on the island?s southern coast, 30 km (18 mi) from the town of San Miguel. Has virgin beaches and wonderful jungle landscape, such as mangroves, marshes and dunes. This ecological reserve offers quite a mixture of natural environments and ecosystems where you can see a wide variety of plant and animal wildlife. It is a refuge for about 50 aquatic bird species. The area attracts indigenous and migratory bird species; the majority of them migrate from cold climates each year from November through March seeking the reserve?s warm waters. It is also the habitat of marine turtles, as well as fresh-water and yellow crocodiles. Here you can take workshops if you are interested in learning more about nature.