National Parks

Tres Rios | Actun Chen | Xpu-Ha | Rio Lagartos | Xel-há | Xcaret

Xel-há

Located just 60 minutes south of Cancun, on the Riviera Maya, this jewel was a safe harbor for the ancient Maya canoes. Xelha is a remarkable recreational site where visitors can explore a multitude of natural wonders like a labyrinth of waterways and paths through the jungle, lagoons of transparent turquoise water, private inlets and coves, "cenotes", a cool river which flows through a mangrove forest, multicolored fish, an a verdant lush jungle have undoubtedly made this park one of the most popular tours in the region.

Embracing the natural aspects of the area, with a healthy philosophy of sustainability, Xel-há's recent renaissance has turned it into one of the most versatile ecological areas in the region. Travelers have lots of activities to choose from thanks to new attractions that have been added. A visit just has more to see and do than before. While still preserving its natural and historical essence, Xel-há has invented new and innovative ways to captivate the visitor.

Unpaved paths lead the explorer from the beach to hidden inlets for relaxingunder thatch roof palapas or taking in the rays of the sun. An ancient wall built by the Maya is on the site as well as two cenotes which due to their isolated location have kept their virginal qualities. Xel-há also has the Maya Cave and the famous river which begins as a spring in the midst of a mangrove forest and widens into a spectacular waterway with a view of rock buttresses, lush vegetation and the vibrant blue Caribbean sky. One can journey down river by either swimming or floating on one of the large inner tubes available. The river opens up into an equally crystal clear and turquoise lagoon where snorkeling is a must (that's where Xel-há gets in other nickname, "snorkel heaven"). The confetti bright fish and the seascape of tree roots are remarkably clear.

The park has installed wagon carts pulled by a four wheeler. This makes the voyage to the river's entrance a lot faster. Usually referred to as the "train", these wagons parallel the pedestrian paths, starting near the entrance and ending where the river begins. The "train" also carries the belongings of those who swim or snorkel down the river safely back to another check point at the park's center.

XEL-HA has demonstrated that progress, development and tourist recreation do not necessarily have to carry negative or artificial connotations. Continuing with their innovations, the park has introduced an interactive swimming program with dolphins who live in the fabulous natural aquarium. The XEL-HA journey, as one of the main sites of the Maya world, is probably one of the most spectacular ones the visitor can take during stay in Cancun or the Riviera. The tour "Discover Tulum-Explore Xel-ha" makes for an ideal day in paradise, where nature, culture and history blend into a fabulous learning and pleasurable experience.

Tres Rios | Actun Chen | Xpu-Ha | Rio Lagartos | Xel-há | Xcaret

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