Ecotourism in Mexico : the authentic side of Riviera Maya !

DAY 1

EXPLORE THE MYSTERIOUS AREA OF EK BALAM │ 1H30

Ek Balam is an archaeological site whose name in Maya means "black or dark jaguar." It is considered a highly significant city where political meetings were held, and to this day, many of its secrets remain to be uncovered. 🌿

From the start, your guide will explain every part of the site. Upon arrival, you will see the impressive structures surrounded by lush nature. You'll head to the court, where the Mayans practiced their famous ball game, a characteristic sport of this ancient culture. Then, you'll ascend the Acropolis pyramid to appreciate the breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

Next, you will explore the Twin Pyramids and the Oval Palace, where you will marvel at the hieroglyphic serpents and stelae engraved on stone blocks, transporting you back to the intriguing Mayan era. You'll have ample time to capture photos of these magnificent constructions and their intricate details.

DISCOVER THE BEAUTIFUL CENOTE X'CANCHÉ │ 2H30

The Mayans considered cenotes sacred, serving as the primary source of fresh water and an entrance to the underworld. 🌊 Accompanied by your guide, you'll cycle along the entrance road towards the cenote. Upon arrival, you'll be surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife.

You’ll cross a large bridge with wooden stairs that lead you to the cenote. Here, you can enjoy the thrill of ziplining into the turquoise waters or take a more serene approach by descending wooden stairs to swim in this natural wonder. This is a moment to truly connect with nature, making it a highlight of your immersive travel experience.

Note: This community is just 31 minutes away from Valladolid. We recommend staying in Valladolid for easy access.

DAY 2

MAYAN JUNGLE, CULTURE, CENOTES, AND LUNCH IN YALCOBÁ │ 7H

Prepare for a full day of adventure and cultural immersion. Your guided tour will take you deep into the Mayan jungle, where you'll explore hidden caves and swim in pristine, untouched cenotes. 🌺

You will also visit a local handicraft workshop known for producing exquisite dream catchers and hammocks. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a delicious Mayan lunch, an authentic culinary experience that showcases the richness of Mexican culture and gastronomy.

Note: This community is located 28 minutes from Valladolid, making it an ideal day trip from your stay in the region.

DAY 3

PUNTA LAGUNA WILD LIFE TOUR │ 3H

Punta Laguna is part of a 12,350-acre area known as "Otoch Ma'ax yetel Kooh," which means "The home of the spider monkey and the puma" in Maya. 🐒 Since 1950, local Mayan families have protected this natural reserve, allowing animals like spider monkeys, howler monkeys, jaguars, and pumas to live in complete freedom.

During this tour, you'll take a canoe ride through the biosphere, where you might spot several species of local wildlife, including the iconic spider monkey.

CENTRO ECOTURÍSTICO A'KTUN JAALEB IN NUEVO DURANGO │ 2 NIGHTS

Connect with nature by staying in a single cabin equipped with a double bed and a mosquito net, perfect for two people. The cabin includes a private bathroom with biodegradable amenities, hot water, and electricity. 🌿 From your window, you can admire the surrounding vegetation and hear the birds singing.

Take the opportunity to rent a bicycle or simply stroll through the beautiful area, soaking in the tranquility of the environment.

Including: 2 nights for 2 adults │ Bed and breakfast

DAY 4

VISIT AND TOUR OF UMA ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT UNIT │ 1H

This conservation project, created in 2006, is dedicated to protecting endangered animals native to the region. Here, you'll learn about efforts to conserve species such as the white-tailed deer, the tepezcuintle, and the ocellated turkey. 🦃 You'll get a chance to see the animals up close and discover the significance of these efforts for the future of wildlife conservation in the Yucatan Peninsula.

GASTRONOMIC TOUR: COOKING AND TASTING TRADITIONAL MAYAN FOOD │ 3H

Join this exciting culinary workshop, where you'll gather fresh ingredients from the garden and learn how to prepare traditional Mayan dishes alongside local community members. At the end of the workshop, you'll enjoy the fruits of your labor in a delicious meal. 🌶️

DAY 5

THE WATER PATH: THE CENOTES OF CHEMUYIL │ 4H30

Your adventure begins in Chemuyil, a small beachfront town off the beaten path, known for its white sandy beaches and shallow waters. 🌊 Upon arrival, a local guide will greet you with a plate of fresh fruit and share stories about the region and its natural beauty.

Afterward, you'll set off on a bike tour through the town of Chemuyil, exploring three different cenotes, each with its unique shape and beauty. The tour starts with "La Cuevita," an enclosed cenote where your guide will share local legends and history. The adventure continues with an open cenote, where you can relax surrounded by nature and possibly spot some of the endemic birds of the region. Lastly, you'll visit a spectacular open cenote fed by the world’s largest underground river system.

Note: This community is located 1 hour and 15 minutes from Nuevo Durango, making it a perfect follow-up to your previous stay.

These rates are valid for 7 days at the time of quotation and are subject to exchange rate fluctuations in USD or €.

Services are subject to availability at the time of booking. The hotels and services presented are examples and may vary at the time of booking.

Rental vehicles are quoted based on the number of travelers, and the number of luggage will be confirmed with the specialist at the time of booking.

Explore more unique experiences in Mexico by visiting our dedicated Mexico page and discover other hidden gems and immersive travel opportunities.