Eco Tourism Mexico
Explore the natural and cultural history of Mexico at Xcaret Eco Park in Playa del Carmen. Xcaret offers a variety of exciting attractions and activities including archeological sites, underground river exploration, Mayan village, Caribbean aquarium, and a Swim with Dolphins programs.
by Manuel Calderon de la Barca
From the amazing natural marvel of the largest aquarium in the world at Xel-Ha to the mysteries of the caves of Aktun Chen and the majesty of Tulum, the only ocean-front ancient Mayan site, the Riviera Maya has something for everyone.
1. Visit the only Mayan archeological site found on the edge of the sea: Tulum
2. Spend a day full of amazement and fun at Xcaret, and view astonishing Mexican riches.
3. Snorkel in the largest natural aquarium in the world: Xel-Ha.
4. Soak up the sun on the white sands of Akumal, “place of the turtles”.
5. Explore life and mystery in the caves of Aktun Chen.
6. Stroll along Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue, and enjoy a variety of bars, restaurants and boutiques.
7. Go back in time and experience the culture of an authentic Mayan pueblo.
8. Snorkel or dive along the largest coral reef in the Americas.
9. Get in touch with nature at the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.
10. Pamper yourself in the hands of professional therapists at a Spa, such as the one named Best Spa in the World by Virtuoso, Grand Velas Riviera Maya.
Photo by: Karin Leperi
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Read about the upcoming Sacred Mayan Journey from journalist Karin Leperi who stayed with us at Grand Velas Riviera Maya during her expedition.
A journey through mayan traditions and mexican folklore, that ” ends up not being about where you go. The message becomes more about what we learn about the process, and in so doing, what we learn about ourselves”, as Leperi explains.
Clck here to read more.
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Suggestion for this month, by Chief Concierge Gerardo Trechuelo.
Nestled in the heart of Riviera Maya, the eco-archeological park Xcaret is dedicated to promoting the natural wonders and biodiversity of Mexico as well as the cultural heritage of the traditions and culture of Quintana Roo.
Xcaret conducts species conservation programs for animals such as the loggerhead and green sea turtles, by using auto grafting techniques in some hatchlings in order to identify each specimen upon their return and obtain important information about their migratory routes and life cycles. It also carries out two grand events that reflect the cultural identity of the surrounding communities: The Sacred Mayan Journey and The Death and Life Traditions Festival.
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Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the Xcaret Plus Package and discover the underground rivers, cultural shows, aquatic activities, coral reef aquarium and Jaguar Island amongst many others!
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by Karime Infante
Just 11 kilometers from Cancun is found an amazing island destined for tranquility and rest. Its tropical palm trees lining the island, smooth white beaches and peaceful atmosphere make Isla Mujeres an area preferred by locals and tourists alike. With clear, calm, crystalline waters one can only admire the beauty of the Mexican Caribbean at their feet.
Different archeological zones are protected on Isla Mujeres; one of these is dedicated to Ixchel, Mayan goddess of love and fertility, and offers impressive views that simply must be enjoyed. For lovers of the deep ocean, there are reefs such as El Farito, Punta Norte y Manchones, in addition to the Cave of the Sleeping Sharks; places that offer all professional divers an incredible experience.
Smooth tropical breezes and sunsets unlike any other in the world can be appreciated here, complementing its natural appeal and making Isla Mujeres another must-see place in Quintana Roo for all of its visitors.
by Gerardo Trechuelo
Chief Concierge Master Grand Velas Riviera Maya
This tour is without a doubt one of the best recommendations for people with an adventurous spirit who are seeking a day full of excitement.
The experience begins with a wild ride on the fastest zip line in the region surrounded by lush jungle, followed by an incredible 18-meter rappel into a cenote (wide natural freshwater well). A refreshing swim in the mystic waters of an underground river is next. A delicious buffet of regional fare is served, readying you for the next phase.
The adrenaline continues at the Bahia de Tortugas beach club, where you can snorkel the coral reefs, surrounded by multicolored fish and marine turtles. At the end of the trip you will be able to relax on one of the best beaches of the Riviera Maya.
I am sure that this impressive adventure
will thrill you and exceed your expectations.
[more information]
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Book this amazing tour. Contact our Concierge:
conciergerm@grandvelas.com
by Julieta Del Toro
In the ancient Mayan world, the word dzonot which later became cenote represented an abyss, the entry to other worlds filled with magic and mysticism as well as being fountains of life that provided precious liquid.
These fresh water wells were created by the erosion of limestone and are typically circular with steep walls: they begin as underground chambers and as the cavity grows, they can break through the surface of the earth. In the majority of cases they are joined with expansive complex subterranean networks that at times create passages all the way to the sea.
There are various types of cenotes, according to their characteristics: open wells, semi-underground, underground or cave cenotes.
It is estimated that more than 3000 cenotes are distributed over the Yucatan peninsula. Of those, 1400 have been discovered and mapped, the most popular being the ones found in Chichen Itzá, Valladolid, X’keken and Xcaret.
You can enjoy a free tour of one of the cenotes closest to Grand Velas Riviera Maya, or if you would like to adventure out much farther on a guided tour, there are various agencies that provide this service, carrying out more complete explorations of these fantastic sites.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see and experience one of these unique marvels of the world and create unforgettable memories.
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This amazing visual spectacle is made up of thousands of stalactites and stalagmites, creating an air of mysticism in this enigmatic place. Don’t miss the chance the presence this magnificent display of Nature.
This tour begins in the Master section Lobby that is immersed in the exuberant jungle. From here the tour follows the path to the resort entrance, through the zone known as “la casa de los alushes”
www.holboxtiburonballena.com
De junio a septiembre, los espectaculares tiburones- ballena, visitan las magníficas playas de Cancún en Quintana Roo, haciendo de esta temporada una de las favoritas por los turistas que llegan hasta este paraíso tropical mexicano y que gozan de la oportunidad de nadar en compañía de estas nobles criaturas.
Considerado como una de las especies más grandes que habitan el planeta, el tiburón-ballena mide 15 metros de largo y tiende a buscar las aguas cálidas para su reproducción, razón por la cual, cada verano emigra a la Isla de Holbox, en donde lleva a cabo su proceso de apareamiento.
www.holboxtiburonballena.com
Tome cualquiera de las múltiples embarcaciones que se encuentran en la playa y diríjase mar adentro para encontrarse con estas amigables especies y nade en su compañía mientras disfruta de las inigualables aguas del Caribe mexicano; hay guías que le orientarán y si lo prefiere, estarán con usted en todo momento para proporcionarle la ayuda que necesite.
Una experiencia inolvidable que lo pondrá en contacto con la naturaleza.
Holboxtiburonballena.com
From June to September, the spectacular whale sharks visit the magnificent beaches of Cancun and Quintana Roo, making this season a favorite of tourists who arrive to the tropical Mexican paradise to have the opportunity to swim in the company of these noble creatures.Considered one of the largest species to inhabit the planet, whale sharks measure up to 15 meters long. Preferring warm waters for reproduction, each year whale sharks migrate to the island of Holbox, where their mating rituals take place.
Holboxtiburonballena.com
Take any of the many boats found on the beach and head for the sea to find this friendly species and swim alongside them while you enjoy the incomparable waters of the Mexican Caribbean; guides are available to orient you and provide assistance at any time.
This is an unforgettable experience that will put you in direct contact with nature.
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Mon, 11 Apr 2011
