Mexico’s resort district of Riviera Maya is rapidly becoming a prime tourist destination as it offers a wholesome holiday experience to travellers. It is blessed with stunning scenic beauty, accentuated by lush jungles, ancient historical pyramids, and vibrant marine life. Travellers can dive into its crystal blue waters to see the world’s second biggest barrier reef or enjoy a cool swim in the cenotes. Read on to know more about the top draws of a visit to Riviera Maya.
Explore Akumal
The picture-perfect protected bay of Akumal is one of the most fantastic places to visit in Riviera Maya. The word Akumal literally means ‘place of the turtles’ and it stands true to its name as the beach of Akumal is a nesting ground for turtles. Travellers can relax or stroll along the pristine beaches before venturing into the waters to see giant 500-pound turtles. The clear waters here teem with these quite creatures.
Dive in the Great Mayan Reef
Diving and exploring the 600-mile-long Great Mayan Reef is one of the main attractions of a holiday in Riviera Maya. It is considered to be the world’s second largest coral reef. Also known as the Belize Reef, snorkelling and scuba diving are among the favourite activities here. The reef system gives you rare insights into an underwater sea world, which has a rich biodiversity of more than 60 types of corals and over 500 types of fish. The place has around 100 dive sites, including the sites at Puerto Morelos, Cozumel, and Playa del Carmen.
Adventure Sports Opportunities
A holiday in Riviera Maya will definitely turn out to be a haven for adventure sports buffs. Snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal waters or swim in the cool pristine waters of cenotes and subterranean rivers. The almost untouched natural reserves offer amazing cycling and hiking opportunities. Also, there are facilities for zip lining. Caving, rappelling, jungle tours, ATV tours, boating, parasailing, and deep sea fishing are some of the other options.
Discover the Ancient Ruins of Tulum, Chichen Itza, Coba
Riviera Maya is full of ancient Mayan sites. These ancient ruins can be explored by cycling or trekking through the dense jungles. The most popular and famous of all of these ancient attractions in Mexico is the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza; one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The pyramids, temples, and stone monuments are especially popular with history buffs. The Tulum Archeological Site is also often visited. Travellers will also enjoy discovering the gems of Coba and Muyil.
Visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Explore its rich ecosystem, which supports various animals such as pumas, spider monkeys, jaguars, deer, and crocodiles. It is a paradise for bird watchers and is home to around 345 species of birds. Guided 3-hour long boat tours take tourists across the reserve. During the tour, you may spot alligators and manatees!
