Riviera Maya Attractions

If you thought that nature and fun could not be synonyms, you will be happily surprised when visiting the Riviera Maya. Ecological parks, natural wells and white sand beaches bathed by transparent waters that hide multihued reefs, framed in exotic jungle vegetation are some of the wonders that the Riviera Maya has reserved for the visitors to the spectacular destination.

Water sports fans will be able to practice sports like windsurfing, sailing and kayaking, as well as fishing and diving. The extensive beaches covered with fine white sand caressed by smooth waves also offer the opportunity for those who enjoy playing beach volleyball to join a friendly match and end up refreshing in the Caribbean waters.

The reefs of the Riviera Maya are part of the second greater reef barrier of the world, and the variety and the color palette of the marine life turns any diving experience in this site a miracle. One of the most attractive aspects of diving in the waters of the Riviera Maya is the possibility of spotting whale sharks, which swim these coasts in their migratory route between July and September,

Cenotes

Although diving is one of the most important attractions of the Riviera Maya, the destination also offers the opportunity to explore the network of underground rivers that connect the cenotes to each other. The word “cenote” comes from the Mayan roots ts' onot or dsonot that means hole in the ground, or well. Cenotes were considered sacred by the Mayas, because of their belief that the cenotes tied the underworld with the terrestrial world. Today science considers them equally important, but for different reasons. However for the ordinary man, its appeal does lie in the impressive beauty of their whimisical shapes and multicolor waters. There are several types of cenotes: sky open, semi open and underground or in caverns, and the Riviera Maya has the whole gamut. It is estimated that there are over 3000 cenotes distributed in the Yucatan Peninsula and about 1400 of them have been partially or totally mapped. In fact, it is suspected that this is the largest cavern system of the world.

Natural parks

Around 10 miles from Tulum, and almost 3 miles after Akumal, you find the park of Aktun Chen that has a surface of 988 acres of virgin tropical jungle and boasts three caves with cenotes in its interior. The main cavern has been illuminated with indirect light to allow a better sight of the hundreds of stalactites and stalagmites that the water has formed in this site for million years. Other park attractions are a zoo with animals of the region and a snake place with species of the area.

Xel-Ha is a magnificent place with a series of transparent water creeks, where thousands of multihued fish can be appreciated. It is possible to swim, to snorkel and to visit the underground river and the cenotes that the park lodges. It also features a small archaeological zone and a series of footpaths in the forest where it is possible to take a walk or to ride a bike. One of the most popular activities of the park is swimming with dolphins, which is not included in the entrance fee.

Xcaret, known like the sacred nature paradise, is a park nestled in the forest where you can swim in an underground river, a cenote or a cove in calm and transparent waters. The cove is home to an enormous amount of tropical fish that swim calmly around the visitors. An orchid greenhouse, an interactive aquarium, two dolphin areas, a lagoon with manatees, a farm of edible fungi and several zoos with birds and butterflies, as well as a small archaeological zone, are some of the attractions that this innovating park offers. The spectacular night show is so worth it.

The biosphere reserve of Sian Ka' an is a vast area with a great diversity regarding the geography and the climate. It was declared part of the program “The man in the Biosphere” of UNESCO on January 20, 1986. Within a surface of 1.6 million acres birds, reptiles, native mammals and marine life of the region live in a protected atmosphere. The reef barrier of Sian Ka´an, with 70 miles of length and magnificent beauty, constitute the second largest reef of the world. In the Eastern limit of the reserve, a great amount of marine species are found, some of them of a considerable economic importance.

The aviary of Xaman Ha (waters of the north) provides 60 species of tropical birds with a natural habitat. It is located in Playacar, in an area of 5 acres. Some of the bird species sheltered here are: toucans, flamenco, macaws and herons.

Important it is to remember that the ecological parks of the Riviera Maya forbid the use of commercial sunscreen products when undertaking water-based activities since it is harmful to the marine life of the place. Ecological sun blockers are available in the parks facilities.

Archaeological zones

Tulum, is located about 40 miles to the south of Playa del Carmen. One of the main charms of the site is its location, because it was constructed on the upper side of a cliff, which must have provided the ancient Mayas with an impressive view of the Caribbean.

During the post-classic period, Tulum was a very important commercial center. The city was walled and dates back to the years 1000-1500 D.C. It consisted of a central plaza that was used for rituals and ceremonies. The most important construction is the Castle, since it protrudes from a reef before the sea, allowing the sight of the coastal line in both directions for several miles. The Temple of the Deities and the Temple of the Frescoes are other two constructions that can be observed here. The Temple of the Frescoes was named after a series of murals found in the interior of the building. The House of the Columns is another important structure of Tulum archeological site.

Spas

For those who love to forget about the world outside and enjoy a relaxing and revitalizing experience, a visit to the luxurious spas that the Riviera Maya offers will do it. Take pleasure in a delicious holistic massage with a view to the sea, or try the temazcal, a pre-Hispanic technique that mixes the experience of sauna with aromatic herbs. If what you wish is a sample of ancient Oriental techniques, go for the sessions of yoga or shiatsu and does not miss out on the extreme indulgence of the chamber of flotation. A wonderful experience, from head to toes awaits you in the spas of the Riviera Maya.

From exciting strolls through the dense jungle to relaxing sessions in the shores, and refreshing immersions in caves and reefs, the Riviera Maya offers activities and alternatives for all. The dreamy destination invites you to come back time after time, with the certainty that in each occasion you will enjoy an unforgettable vacation.