Another reason for visiting the Mayan Riviera from end to end, is the beauty of its ecological and aquatic parks. One of the most famous is Xcaret, only 8 kilometers away from Playa del Carmen.
The excursion can last all day, that is why it is better to get up early in the morning. The transportation alternatives range from public transportation to contracted tours. Those who travel in pairs or groups prefer to rent a car, for the price of 40 dollars per day.
“Do you already know what time the activities begin?” the guide asks while distributing the bracelets that serve as a daily pass in Xcaret. The advice is not in vain: many activities have a fixed schedule and it is necessary to pay attention so as not to miss any of them. In addition, the most concurred attractions have limited vacancies.
Once inside the park, it is difficult to choose just one of the many things that Xcaret has to offer. To begin with, the estate is placed in an old Mayan port called Polé. The tour also includes visiting an aquarium, the butterfly reserve and programmed shows like the representation of the famous Mayan ball game.
But without doubt, the stars of this place are the aquatic activities and the cenotes (natural wells), another great natural wonder of the region.

Cenote is the name for the natural water wells (more than 6 thousands) that lead to underground rivers. “These deposits were key for the survival of the Mayan civilization”, explains the guide while some tourists already hurry to put on their scuba fins.
Today the natural wells are, next to the Great Mayan Reef, the best places for diving and snorkeling. In Xcaret there are two underground rivers and its route is a must-see. With a diving gear or snorkel, you can witness the smooth sweet water running through the rock formation. Suddenly, surrounded by hundreds of multicolored fish, the divers discover the walls of this 0magical cavern in where time seems not to pass by.
In the evening, it is time to try another one of the strong points of the park. Swimming with dolphins will be, by far, one of the most memorable experiences. The hosts could not be any friendlier: after welcoming their visitors with a trick, they approach them and contemplate them with curiosity.
Two boys (6 and 7 years old) enter along with their parents, as part of a special dolphin-swimming program for kids. Neither the kids nor the dolphins need much ceremony to get acquainted.