Travelers Guide to Xelha

60 miles minutes south of Cancun, on the Riviera Maya, this jewel was a safe harbor and port-of-call for the ancient Mayan merchant marine; today , Xelha is a remarkable recreational site where visitors can explore a multitude of natural wonders: a labyrinth of waterways and paths through the tropical jungle, lagoons of transparent turquoise water, private inlets and coves, "cenotes". (fresh water sinkholes or natural wells), a cool river which flows through a mangrove forest, multicolored fish, an a verdant lush jungle have undoubtedly made this park one of the most popular tours in the region.

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Labnah Hotel Playa del Carmen Q. Roo Mexico

Embracing the natural aspects of the area , with a healthy philosophy of sustainability, xel-ha's recent renaissance has turned it into one of the most versatile an ample ecological areas in the region. The visitors have a plethora of activities to choose from thanks to news establishments and alternative attractions that facilitate the visitor's stay, making it more comfortable and definitely more extensive. While still preserving its natural and historical essence, Xel-há has invented new and innovative ways to captivate the visitor.

Unpaved paths lead the explorer from the beach to hidden inlets for relaxing under thatched roof palapas or basking in the rays of the sun, to an ancient wall built by the Mayas, and to the more novel areas of the park such as two cenotes which due to their gorgeous and isolated location have kept their virginal qualities, the Mayan Cave, and the famous river, which begin as a spring in the midst of a mangrove forest and widens into a spectacular waterway with a view of rock buttresses, lush vegetation and the vibrant blue Caribbean sky. 

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One can journey down river by either swimming or floating on one of the large interludes available. The river then opens up into an equally crystal clear and turquoise lagoon where snorkeling is a must (that's where xel-ha gets in other nickname, "snorkel heaven").

The confetti bright fish and the seascape of tree roots are remarkably unique.

To make the above mentioned sites more accessible, the park has installed wagon carts pulled by a four wheeler. This makes the voyage to the river's entrance a lot faster. Usually referred to as the "train", these wagons parallel the pedestrian paths, starting near the entrance and ending where the river begins. The "train" also carries the belongings of those who swim or snorkel down the river safely back to another check point at the park's center.

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Paamul Caribbean Paradise, Riviera Maya Q. Roo México

An example of truly a environmentally sound project, XEL-HA has demonstrated that progress, development and tourist recreation do not necessarily have to carry negative or artificial connotations. Continuing with their innovativeness, the park has introduced an interactive swimming program with dolphins who live in the fabulous natural aquarium. (this activity is not including in the entrance fee. Demand for this program is very high with limited capacity; therefore, we suggest arriving early for making onsite reservations.)

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The XEL-HA journey, as one of the main sites of the Maya world, is probably one of the most spectacular ones the visitor can take during stay in Cancun or the Riviera. The tour "Discover Tulum-Explore Xel-ha" makes for an ideal day in paradise, where nature, culture and history blend into a fabulous learning and pleasurable experience.