Named after a Mayan word meaning “the place where the waters are born,” the Xel-Ha aquatic park encompasses 14 acres (5.7 hectares) of jungle and ocean just south of Playa del Carmen. Xel-Ha provides activities for the whole family and features cenotes, a lazy river, fish-filled lagoons, and other natural attractions.
With unparalleled access to the Caribbean Sea and all of its bounty, a visit to the Xcaret eco-archaeological park is a must when on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Snorkeling, ziplining, river rafting, exploring underwater rivers, and hiking tropical trails through jungle ruins are all options within this natural adventure park, which gives fast access to many of Cancun’s greatest attractions.
Set in the middle of the Yucatan jungle, Xplor Adventure Park allows visitors to experience Mexico’s environmental treasures firsthand. Here you can raft down a stalactite-filled underground river, swim in cenotes, ride in an amphibious vehicle, or zipline above the canopy. There’s also a nighttime option to explore after dark.
Powdery white beaches, glassy water, and coral reefs are spectacular reasons to visit Cozumel, a laid-back island in Cancun’s backyard. Snorkeling and scuba diving in Cozumel is among the best in the Yucatan, and private beach clubs offer a luxurious place to soak up some Caribbean sun.
Tulum, the site of a Pre-Columbian Maya walled city and a port for Coba, is one of the best preserved coastal Mayan cities in the Yucatan, in tandem with Chichen Itza and Ek Balam. Highlights of this archaeological site include the Temple of the Frescoes, which has spectacular figurines of the 'diving god.'