OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

The white-sand beaches of Playa del Carmen provide the best setting to do various outdoor activities, such as hiking or horseback riding, while you enjoy the warmth of the sun, the ocean breeze and the wonderful landscapes characteristic of the Quintana Roo coast.

Parque Ecologico Tres Rios – Located 11 km (7 mi) north of Playa del Carmen off the Cancun-Tulum Highway 307. At this ecological park embedded in a subtropical jungle you can have the memorable experience of a close encounter with nature. The park is closed due to remodeling, but will reopen its doors in summer 2006. This park offers guided horseback tours along the beach or on trails that cut through the jungle. It also has horseback riding classes for all ages and skill levels.

Xcaret – Located 8 km (5 mi) south of Playa del Carmen off the Cancun-Tulum Highway 307. At this place, among many other attractions, you’ll find archaeological ruins of one of the most important ceremonial centers of Mayan culture. You’ll also see plenty of natural beauty such as caves, underground rivers full of colorful indigenous fish, and a reef aquarium. Open daily from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm. Tel. (998) 883-0470. www.xcaret.com Here you can go horseback riding in the park with the Caribbean Sea as a backdrop.