Located approximately 30 miles south of Playa del Carmen and 8 miles from the ruins of Tulum, you will discover the Eden of Mexico. The Xel-Ha Ecological Water Park is literally a natural aquarium. The limestone layers in the Yucatan Peninsula are home to massive underground rivers that carry water from the interior to the Caribbean Sea. Xel-Ha turns out to be the confluence of several underground rivers that flow into the sea.
There are many things to do and see in this park. The main attractions, of course, are the water activities. The lagoon offers a beautiful place to interact with sea creatures. This is one of the most beautiful places to snorkel in the Riviera Maya. Because Xel-Ha provides food for the fish, there are always plenty of species in the area for a spectacular sight. In fact, for a small fee you can also feed the fish.
The lagoon is also a great place to try SNUBA. This activity is a cross between snorkeling and SCUBA, and does not require special certification. In fact, this is an activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Younger family members can be connected to the same oxygen lines as older members so everyone can stay together.
For the more adventurous, Xel-Ha allows visitors to swim with dolphins or manatees. You can also take a walk along the bottom of the sea on the Sea Trek. For this activity you will wear a helmet that provides you with oxygen to breathe and serves as a window to the aquatic wonders under the sea.
You’ll find exciting adventures waiting for you on land too. Walk through the jungle following the Path of Consciousness. Take in the beautiful flora and fauna as you go. Ride the bike trail that winds through the jungle for 1 kilometer while trying to spot the wildlife that comes to feast on the feeders strategically placed along the trail. Test your balance skills as you cross the floating bridge. Try your luck crossing the Trepachange; a 50-foot bridge consisting of two parallel ropes that hang over the river below. Relax to the sound of water and birds deep in the jungle while enjoying the luxury of an Xpa massage. Shop and dine in style in the town of Xel-Ha.
During your visit to Xel-Ha, take time to explore cenotes and caves. You’ll find fossils embedded in the walls of El Dorado Cavern or you can swim in the calm waters of Mayan Cave. The Gulf of Ixchel is an intimate place to swim in fresh water along the path of the river. And, of course, you can snorkel, swim and tube down the mangrove-lined river. The more adventurous can plunge from the Cliffs of Valor into the river below.
Come and spend the day in Xel-Ha, or if you prefer, on a combined tour that allows you to spend half a day in Tulum and half in Xel-Ha. Remember that this is an ecological water park, and only 100% biodegradable non-chemical sunscreen is allowed.
