I love living in the Riviera Maya.
I feel extremely privileged to be able to do so.
More than, anything I am constantly fascinated by the region’s stunning beauty.
There are so many different things to do and see to reconnect with nature, all within about a one hour drive.
Luckily, several Playa del Carmen eco-tours exist to allow you to experience a close encounter with some of Mother Nature’s stunning works.
Top 5 Playa del Carmen Eco-Tours
From the cenotes and mangrove channels to the fascinating marine life and unspoiled stretches of beach, there are many good reasons to consider this area of the planet as a paradise on Earth.
Whenever you take a Playa del Carmen vacation, it’s impossible to find enough time to do everything.
That’s why planning your trip is so important (and why our travel specialists are such a valuable and free resource to use).
Here are some ideas to consider.
1. Sian Ka’an
Many tours and hotels may boast pristine beaches, Sian Ka’an delivers.
Set off in a nature reserve by the same name, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is a protected area of verdant tropical forest, abundant mangrove channels, long stretches of untouched white sand beaches that embrace the spectacular azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, and abundant flora and fauna.
One tour, called the Sian Ka’an Eco Maya Adventure, takes you to the majestic Muyil Mayan ruins before exploring the beautiful mangrove channels of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.
Definitely one of the better tours to help you appreciate Mother Nature’s blessing.
- Price: $149.00 USD per person
- Ages: 8 years and over
- Duration: +/- 10 hours
- Includes: Round-trip transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, driving your own jeep, boat tour, nature guide, snorkeling and snorkeling equipment, swimming in a natural pool, snacks, non-alcoholic drinks
- Reservations: Sian Kaan tour
1. Xenotes
Xenotes is a fascinating cenotes park owned and operated by Experiencias Xcaret, and features four different sinkholes for you to wonder at and explore.
Activities include kayaking, snorkeling, rappel, zip lines and inner tubes through and within these amazing wonders of the natural world.
This is a great way to experience the different types of cenotes while basking in the sun and swimming in their refreshing waters.
- Price: $119.00 USD per person
- Ages: 6 years and over
- Duration: +/- 9 hours
- Includes: Round-trip transportation, all equipment, non-alcoholic beverages, lunch, access to restrooms and changing rooms
- Reservations: Xenotes Park
2. Horseback Riding
Saddle up and head on out on a fun horseback riding adventure along white sandy beaches and lush jungle paths.
Feel the breeze of the Caribbean Sea as you trot amidst spectacular land and seascapes together with your newfound equine friend.
A great experience for nature and animal lovers!
Once you’re finished, cool off on the beach with a refreshing drink.
Giddy up!
- Price: $77.00 USD per person
- Ages: 6 and over
- Duration: +/- 4 hours
- Includes: Round-trip transportation to/from hotel, professional guide, riding equipment, non-alcoholic drinks, snacks
- Reservations: Horseback Riding Adventure
4. Swim with Whale Sharks
Whale sharks are sharks not whales.
They’re also the largest fish on the entire planet.
Each year, hundreds of these ocean titans congregate off the coast of Cancun to feed on micro-organisms such as plankton and fish eggs.
With mouths that can reach three meters in diameter, their throats are the size of a mere quarter.
In other words, it’s safe to swim next to these gigantic filter-feeders without being swallowed whole.
You can do so in the Riviera Maya every year from June through mid-September.
See our blog for more tips on whale shark tours from Playa del Carmen!
- Price: $199.00 USD per person
- Ages: 4 and over
- Duration: +/- 10 hours
- Includes: Round-trip transportation, professional guides, snorkeling equipment, snorkeling with whale sharks, lunch, non-alcoholic drinks
- Reservations: Whale Shark Tour
5. Temazcal Sweat Lodge
I admit this one might not be for everyone, but for those who appreciate connecting mind, body, and spirit with nature this is an incredible experience.
A temazcal is basically the local version of a sweat lodge.
A small circular structure is built in whose center lies a fire pit.
Participants sit around the pit, which is filled with fiery hot stones.
Herbs are used (no, not the 4-20 variety either) to stimulate the senses.
Highly recommended for those interested in this unique combination of nature and spirituality.
- Price: $120 USD
- Ages: Must be at least 5 years old; parental discretion advised
- Duration: +/- 4 hours
- Includes: Round-trip transportation, temazcal experience, Mayan shaman, fresh fruit
- Reservations: Temazcal Playa del Carmen
Is this where I say Namaste?
In any case, feel free to reach out toll-free at 888-537-9797 to our ever so wise travel specialists who can guide you on your path to vacation enlightenment.
Oooommmm!!!
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