Touring near Cozumel – The strategic location of the island allows you to plan several excursions to nearby places that make up part of the beautiful Mayan Riviera. Begin by catching the ferry that departs from the island’s main pier and arrives at Playa del Carmen, a cosmopolitan city known for its unique restaurants, spectacular beaches and gorgeous scenery. From there, you can continue on to Cancun, a magnificent beach destination located 68 km (42 mi) north of Playa del Carmen on Highway 307. Known as the gateway to the Mayan world, Cancun has white-sand beaches, azure-blue waters, modern tourist resorts and a booming nightlife.
 Another recommendable route along Highway 307 runs from Playa del Carmen to Xcaret, which lies about 5 miles south of the Mexican tourist resort. For those looking to relax or observe the region’s flora and fauna, ecotourism park Xcaret has a beach area, a network of underground rivers, an aquarium, a so-called dolphinarium, a butterfly sanctuary, an orchid greenhouse and an apiary. At Xcaret you can also visit an archaeological zone and a recreated Mayan village.
About 17 miles ahead, you’ll find Puerto Aventuras, an ideal place to play to swim, kayak and play golf by the Caribbean Sea. 1 mile from there is Akumal, a romantic, relaxing getaway spot with a white-sand beach and turquoise-blue waters. If you’re looking for close contact with nature, Akumal is the place to visit. Continuing southward along Highway 307, you’ll arrive at Xel-Ha, which is 29 miles from Playa del Carmen. Xel-Ha is considered one of the best spots to do snorkeling, as it offers a lagoon and underground rivers.
The park has all the services you’ll need, and you can also swim with dolphins. Following the same highway, you’ll reach Tulum, 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen. Tulum is one of the most beautiful archaeological zones on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Among its most important structures are El Castillo, el Templo de los Frescos and El Templo del Dios Descendente. A visit to the Mexican Caribbean is sure to leave tourists with a lasting impression of the Mayan Riviera. |
