There is so much to see and do, it's hard to know where to start. The diversity of people, cultures and natural beauty means that there is something new to explore everyday. So- in case you choose to slip out of your hammock we have included a very brief list of some of the areas major attractions. This is only a beginning!
If you would like more information on exploring the Yucatan please e-mail us at info@akumaldirect.com.
The Riviera Maya's ecological parks offer an excellent opportunity for families or those on a quick trip to glimpse into all the Mexico and The Riviera Maya have to offer. Mayan Culture, Flora and Fauna, Archaeological Tours, Water Attractions and great Swim With Dolphin Programs are available to visitors. The parks are not inexpensive. Do your research so that you can make the best choice on entry fees (entry only or day package) and make your reservations in time to enjoy everything that the parks have to offer. The Eco-Parks of Xcaret and Xel-Ha strive to provide a global example that development, conservation, culture and entertainment are compatible concepts.
There are two major parks: Xcaret and Xel-Ha. We encourage to visit their websites for discounts on passes, detailed program information and interactive maps.
Xcaret
Please visit www.xcaret.com for more information, discounts on entry fees and reservations for dolphin swims and other activities.
Located at the Heart of the Mayan Riviera, where the old port of Pole embedded. Xcaret invites you to discover a paradise that shelters all the wonders of Mexican Caribe. Just few minutes away from Playa del Carmen and less than an hour from Cancun.
Xcaret means in Mayan language “Small Cove”. It is located on the border of the Caribbean Sea, in front of Cozumel, and it does not only provides with a breathtaking Natural Cove, it also offers 30 fully-interactive activities, among them, the most incredible ones are: underground rivers, butterfly-pavilion, turtle-farm, interactive-aquarium, museum and dolphin center and the best show with folk and local costumes, music and folk dances from all over Mexico.
At the park, you will be able to taste fresh seafood cooked with the regional and characteristic flavor, as well as other Mexican dishes while listening to joyful Mexican folklore musical groups.
The evening show is spectacular! You will find your self transported through time in Mayan scenarios and ceremonies, pre-hispanic dances, you will be a witness to a “Ball Game” and at the end, you will feel embraced by the sounds of instruments enriching colorful regional dances from all places of Mexico at the “Xcaret at Night”.
Xel-Ha
Please visit www.xel-ha.com for more information, discounts on entry fees and other charges and reservations for dolphin swims and other activities.
The largest natural aquarium in the world! It is formed by a salty water lagoon which currents flow to Caribbean Sea, it looks like a precious mirror, and it is nurtured by a river of tranquil waters.
Old mayan legends tell about the Mayan gods who mixed their wisdom, enchantment and love for the beauty in order to create the place where the best of nature in the Caribe is found all together. Old Mayas called this place Xel-Ha “Where the water is born”.
This tropical park of breathtaking beauty, has a turquoise blue lagoon, a river of tranquil waters and an exuberant jungle, when together form a unique scenario in front of the sea. It just takes you to go into the jungle to find old Mayan cenotes.
Dolphin Swim Programs
Two of the finest dolphin swim programs available are located within the Xcaret and Xel-Ha Eco-Parks. Again, their websites provide excellent information on the swim program including times, cost and eligibility.
The Dolphin Discovery Program is also very good and offers the opportunity to swim with dolphins without the added expense of park admission fees.
Xcaret Dolphin Swim Programs
Swim with the dolphins: During this program, visitors are hosted directly by the dolphins which swim among them during a prolonged period of time allowing themselves be petted freely Swimmers soon learn and are surprised at the dolphin's jumps and the strength and speed with which they propel them along. In all modesty and with pride we can honestly say that this is probably the best dolphin swim program in existence, just ask our visitors. 1 hr. program.
Delphi kids: Children will enjoy and know the abilities of their aquatic friends being accompanied by an adult.
First our little visitors will get name tags so that we can call them by their names, then everyone gets to carry out fun activities while listening a very interesting and colorful explanation. The dolphins get to swim up close to their new friends and may even surprise them by jumping completely out of the water.
Let yourself get carried away by the magic of Delphi Kids.
• 30 min. program.
• Program only for children under 43" or 1.10 m of height, accompanied by an adult.
• Both pay.
Trainer for a day program. This program is created for all people who are curious about knowing what the dolphin trainers activities are; also you will have the opportunity to be close to these marvelous animals.
During the day, you will learn about the facilities, participate in training, feed dolphins, see what they do under water and much more, all inside our facilities at Xcaret and Xel-Ha parks.
From 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• For 15 years and older.
• With good health condition, no smoking.
• Includes: a picture, video, uniform, lunch and diploma.
Delphinus Dolphin Swim Program
Please visit the Delphinus website for more information and discounts on tickets. www.delphinusworld.com.
Delphinus offers a new dolphin swim program which guarantees 50 minutes of interaction with the dolphins. It includes a pair of swim goggles for participants so that they can watch the dolphin interact underwater. The goggles are your's to take home! Photos and DVD's are available for an additional fee. Currently (June 2006), tickets purchased online are $134.10 US.
Puerto Aventuras, Dolphin Discovery
Puerto Aventuras is a place where you will find the opportunities to organize a convention since there are first class hotels, enjoy the splendid beach and the marina where you can practice professional fishing, diving and many other activities.
Visit this site to relax completely, surrounded by exuberant vegetation. Puerto Aventuras is an exclusive tourist complex located 98 kilometers from Cancun. Here Dolphin Discovery facility has enjoyable programs with dolphins, sting rays and gracious manatees.
At this paradise the programs to enjoy with dolphins are:
Encounter: interactive experience 30 min. Enjoy the interaction very close to the dolphin.
Royal Swim: during the program the guest will live the emotion of swimming with the dolphins, foot push, kiss, dorsal fins, jump and free time.
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