ECOTOURISM
Merida?s
environs provide spectacular landscapes, where you can find
various sinkholes, underground river systems with crystalline
waters and lagoons hidden within mangroves. The lush vegetation
makes it ideal for observing flora and fauna or going
on a photo safari.
Cenote Simbala ? This beautiful sinkhole with waters
of intense blue offers surroundings where you can observe a variety of plant and
animal species. Located in the town of
Motul on 43rd Street and 26th Street off Highway
281. It lies about 45 km (28 mi) from
Merida.
Jardin Botanico Regional
? A botanical garden with an important
variety of indigenous vegetation: agave, orchids, aquatic plants, palms, cacti and other
species. It also has a patch of low jungle.
Along the tour, you?ll come across information about the plant species,
making it an educational experience as well. Located at the
Centro de Estudios Cientificos de Yucatan
in Puerto Progreso, 36 km (22 mi) north
of Merida along Highway 261.
Reseva
Especial de la Biosfera Ria Celestun ? Located 95 km
(59 mi) west of Merida
on a state highway that you
can catch near the town of
Uman. Has 51,139 hectares
(126,313 acres)
and a 20-km-long (12.4-mi) estuary, which empties into the
Gulf of Mexico
in the state of Campeche. At this biosphere reserve, you can witness the spectacular sight of pink
flamingos in flight and you can admire more than 170 indigenous and migratory bird
species that inhabit the area.
You?ll also spy crocodiles in the marshes and
you may have the pleasant surprise
of watching green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles laying their eggs.
Cuzama ? Located 40 km
(25 mi) southeast of Merida
on a state highway that you
can catch in the town of Kanasin.
This place has various sinkholes you can visit as a horse-drawn cart takes
you along a 7-km (4-mi) path full of underbrush. Here you can observe flora and fauna typical of the
region, as well as some endangered species.
