ECOTOURISM
Along the Mayan Riviera you will
discover a wide variety of ecotourism options, allowing you to admire the
spectacular wildlife at the main ecological reserves. You can also participate
in projects to protect endangered species, such as marine turtles. The
experience will put you in direct contact with nature, making it all the more
enjoyable.
Reserva
de la Biosfera
de Sian Ka'an. At this biosphere reserve you will
be able to observe lush jungle vegetation, flooded savannahs and palm groves. You
can explore its wetlands and virgin beaches, which are home to more than 300
bird species. You can also discover more than 1,400 plant species and you might
have the chance to spot mammals such as pumas, ocelots, jaguars, tapirs, spider
monkeys and white-tailed deer.
Xel-Há. Located 47
km (29 mi) south of Playa del
Carmen off the Cancun-Tulum Highway 307. This
ecological park has creeks, natural wells, lagoons and caves with underground
rivers that empty into the sea. Open daily from 8:30 to 6:00. Tel. (984) 875 6000
www.xel-ha.com,
At this place you can admire a wide array of
indigenous plant and animal species that inhabit Mexico?s southeastern region.
Don?t forget to bring your camera for photo ops that will leave you with
unforgettable memories.
Parque Ecologico
Tres Rios. Located 11 km (7 mi) south of Playa del
Carmen off the Cancun-Tulum Highway 307. This ecological park is
nestled in a subtropical jungle, giving you close contact with nature and an
unforgettable experience. Currently under renovation, this park will reopen its
doors in summer 2006. Here you can trek along trails that allow you to observe
subtropical vegetation and a habitat that is home to more than 100 animal
species.
Xcaret. Located 8
km (5 mi) south of Playa del
Carmen off the Cancun-Tulum Highway 307. This
ecological park offers attractions you won?t find elsewhere, such as the
archaeological ruins of one of the most important ceremonial centers of the
Mayan culture. Its natural beauty is one of a kind and benefits from ponds,
caves, underground rivers full of colorful fish, and a reef aquarium. Open
daily from 8:30 to 10:00. Tel. (998) 883-0470 www.xcaret.com,
At this spot you will find trails with educational
information about the lush vegetation and the many indigenous animal species.
You can also visit a butterfly sanctuary, an orchid nursery and an apiary. And
if that?s not enough, you can experience the joy of swimming with dolphins,
which gives.
Majahual. Located
145 km (90 mi) northwest of Chetumal on Highway. 307. This quiet fishing village has
a group of ecological bungalows that were built with local natural resources.
They provide ideal lodging if you?re looking to relax amid the lush vegetation.
Here you can see diverse forms of wildlife, particularly hundreds of local and
migratory birds.
Playa Paamul. Located 15
km (9 mi) from Playa del Carmen, between Puerto Aventuras
and Xcaret. This place offers various tourist
services including bungalows, restaurants, convenience stores and 24-hour
security. At this beach you can witness the arrival of sea turtles between May
and July when they come to lay their eggs.
Parque Natural Aktun
Chen. Located at Km 107 off
the Cancun-Tulum Highway between Akumal and Xel-Há. In this park
you?ll find one of Quintana Roo?s main cave systems.
Open daily from 9:00 to 5:00. As part of its
ecotourism activities, this reserve provides the opportunity to learn about the
various animal species that live in the area, such as white-tailed deer, spider
monkeys, badgers, wild boar, wild turkeys, iguanas and indigenous birds species.
