Riviera Maya - Mexican Treasure
Mayan Riviera, or Riviera Maya in Spanish, is one of typically the most popular destinations in Mexico. The Riviera Maya desire resort is the state name for a stretch of coastal land from the south of Cancún to Tulum. It includes the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. This section of the coast covers 130 km (81 mi), excluding the Reserve. It includes many small towns and hideaways, plus nature parks and large resorts, among which are luxury resorts of 5 or more stars. The biggest towns are Puerto Morelos and Puerto Aventuras. These are lesser known but equally worthy vacation spots. Hideaways include Punta Bete, Xpu-Ha, Paamul, and Punta Allen. Major cities in this stretch include Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum. Cancún and the island of Cozumel are just minutes away by car or ferry. As imaginable there are plenty of things to complete for vacationers of most preferences. Whether you intend to relax on the beach, snorkel in the clear blue waters, shop for souvenirs, visit historical or nature preserves, or eat at various restaurants, Riviera Maya will more then fulfill your vacation desire.
Lots To Do
Swimming with the Dolphins - Dolphin Discovery (998/887-0207) is situated at Treasure Island on the side of Isla Mujeres, facing Cancun. Up to six people can swim with two dolphins and one trainer. Another choice is Xel-Ha (998/883-3293), a theme park in Puerto Juárez. For less than $90 US per person, you can swim for 30 minutes in an all natural habitat environment called dolphinaria.
Snorkeling - Isla Mujeres is located close to one of several coral reefs, and the area is popular because of its snorkeling and scuba diving. Typically the most popular snorkeling area is El Garrafón National Park. Another popular spot is Bahía de Mujeres.
SCUBA Diving - Undoubtedly, the most popular destination is Cozumel. It ranks among the most effective five dive destinations. But don't forget your dive card and dive log. Dive shops will rent you gear but won't get you on a ship until you demonstrate some documentation. You can conserve money by getting a dive package together with hotel stay. Cozumel has lots of diving locations. Some of the more famous are Palancar Reef, Santa Rosa Wall, San Francisco Reef, and Yucab Reef. The Great Maya coral reef can be breathtaking.
Wildlife - No, not the forever partying kind, but natural Reserves is what we're speaking about here. South of Cancún, close to the Mayan Ruins of Tulum, you'll encounter the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. Here you can enjoy wildlife in their natural habitat. Activities include kayaking, fly fishing, and educational programs. In Isla Mujeres you may want to see the Turtle Sanctuary, a reserve dedicated to preserving Caribbean Sea turtles and educating people about them.
Beaches - Playa del Carmen offers same quality of beaches as Cancun with fewer crowds, although it keeps growing in popularity. Short while by ferry will get you to the island of Cozumel which has wonderful beaches such as for example Playa San Francisco and Playa Palancar.
Swimming - If you're in Isla Mujeres, then we recommend Playa Norte. Anywhere there is a good beach in the Riviera Maya you will discover a good swimming experience.
Fishing - Riviera Maya offers great fishing experience. To arrange per day of fishing contact the Sociedad Cooperativa Turística. Alternatively your travel agent can arrange a fishing tour for you. Best months for fishing are April to September.
Museums and Maya Ruins - On rainy afternoons you might wish to take a look at a museum or two. In Cazumel, Museo de la Isla de Cozumel merits a visit. Mayan ruins are certainly worth a trip when you're in the Riviera Maya. One notable spot are the Ruins of Tulum, a Maya fortress-city overlooking the Caribbean. They're located thirteen kilometers (8 miles) south of Xel-ha.
There are way too many activities in the Riviera Maya to be able to list all of them in a short article similar to this one. In the long run try to find more articles dedicated to one or few destinations in the Riviera Maya.