In the jungles surrounding Cancun, you can have the adventure of a lifetime going in search of one of the most admired animals by the Mayans: the jaguar. You can be part of a new expedition organized by local tour operators beginning in February, playing tribute to the habitat of this great feline by following the footprints of this enigmatic species. The tour allows learning about its conservation, while also participating in activities such as snorkeling, exploring Mayan sites and camping on immaculate protected areas.
The Yucatan Peninsula is top on the list of unique sites ideal for bird watching. Currently, of the 1,062 species known in Mexico, 537 are registered here, including 14 common species which can be seen during Cancun’s bird watching tours. Observing radiant flamingos, the incredible turquoise and green plumage of the Toh bird, or the colorful toucans undoubtedly make these tours a fascinating experience.
The spider monkey has a unique sanctuary in Punta Laguna where locals walk you through the jungle while experiencing the sights of the forest and the crystal-clear water of lagoons engulfed by the magical sounds of the rainforest.
In the waters of Cancun lies a reef extending more than 700 miles from the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula to the islands of Honduras and home to more than 500 species of fish and 65 coral species. The Mesoamerican Reef is more than 225 million years old and offers a unique opportunity to snorkel and dive along fascinating species in just a short distance from your hotel.
Nature’s greatest experiences are at your doorstep in Cancun. Each year, turtles that feed off the reef arrive to the coasts of Cancun where they nest along the shore. To contribute to their conservation, several hotels offer programs to preserve the turtles while engaging tourists in the gratifying experience of their conservation.
Cancun’s wetlands, specifically the Nichupte mangrove swamps, are a tourist attraction for nature lovers due to their incomparable scenery and varied biodiversity. Tourists might see thousands of blue and red crabs that live in the lagoon and migrate each year across Cancun’s hotel zone from the swampy areas. They lay the eggs along the coast with the help of locals and tourists, a very fulfilling and educational activity.
Just 20 minutes from Cancun, there is one of the most famous crocodile farms where iguanas, coaties, snakes, deers, parrots and macaws can be seen in their natural habitat. Additionally, the botanical garden of Puerto Morelos is home to over 250 species of animals and exuberant flora, such as La Ceiba, the sacred Mayan tree.
More:
Riviera Maya Hotels
Airport Transportation
Tours & Activities
Riviera Maya Guidebook
