Renowned almost without compare among Caribbean tourist destinations is Mexico's famous Riviera Maya. Lying on the eastern seaboard of the lush Yucatn peninsula, the Riviera Maya is almost an oxymoron, being a cluster of huge resorts and eco-parks nestled within the arms of the wild, untouched rainforest that surrounds it. This makes the Riviera Maya an unprecedented opportunity to experience both the luxury and comfort of a five-star hotel, and to explore some of the last truly untouched refuges of nature on the planet in an environmentally conscious way. The area also contains amazing beaches, awe-inspiring Mayan ruins, and a variety of eco-lodges and parks that supply ecologically themed activities and adventure treks. In short, no matter what your family's preferences, interests, and tastes may be, the Riviera Maya is sure to satisfy them all with room to spare.
Take an Eco-Tour for the Adventure of a Lifetime
Because of its abundant natural splendor, the Riviera Maya is one of the best sports in the world to go adventure trekking. The variety of environments you can visit is quite diverse, from high hills to steamy lowland jungles, mysterious underground caves, and of course, diving in sparkling clear water next to some of the biggest coral reefs found anywhere on the planet. After visiting the amazing ruins of Chichn Itz and descending from the mountainous coastline that guards the central lowlands, one can journey by car, foot, or horseback to the ancient port city of Tulum, which still stands like the watchtower its Mayan builders intended it to be over a millennium ago. Those touring the coast will find an abundance of hostels and eco-lodges, with comfortable and environmentally friendly accommodations suitable for solitary travelers or whole families of adventurers (even of the very young variety). The setting sun and absence of inundating city lights provides a beautiful prelude to the clearest and most brilliant night sky you've ever seen with your own eyes.
Rare and Beautiful Birds
Anyone with a predilection for flora and fauna (which would include almost all small children) will be delighted at the bountiful and diverse population of animals and plants that one can view on a nature tour through the jungle. Birds especially are found in abundance; the varieties of brightly colored plumage, strange beaks and crests, and melodic calls echoing through the trees will bring a smile to the face of any bird-watcher, be they amateur, expert, or simply enthusiastic. To make the most of your walking tour, consider hiring an experienced jungle guide who can point out the myriad examples of avian and other jungle life. Many forest denizens have by necessity become quite adept at concealing themselves from all manner of hungry and prying eyes, and so having an extra and knowledgeable pair at your disposal could mean the difference between catching a glimpse of a particularly elusive species, like the majestic Guatemalan quetzal, and missing a rare opportunity.
The Ocean's Limitless Bounty
Not to be outdone by its neighboring earthbound habitats, the Riviera Maya seaside has its own unbelievable variety of flora and fauna sure to excite any visitors. If fishing is your passion, you'll scarcely believe the size and abundance of gamefish in these waters; however, those who prefer just to look will be equally satisfied. Opportunities abound to snorkel and dive near the Great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, one of the world's most extensive underwater habitats, and swim alongside dolphins, dazzlingly-colored tropical fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. Couples will surely want to enjoy romantic walks along the seashore, especially with the brilliant and soothing rays of the setting sun lavishing the seashore with illumination, and pick a few cowrie shells from the surf to take home as a souvenir of their visit.
All this and more is waiting just a short flight away at the exotic and unforgettable Riviera Maya. The next time you have a family vacation to plan, the choice of destination should be an easy one to make tearing yourself away from the fun will be the only difficult part!
Take an Eco-Tour for the Adventure of a Lifetime
Because of its abundant natural splendor, the Riviera Maya is one of the best sports in the world to go adventure trekking. The variety of environments you can visit is quite diverse, from high hills to steamy lowland jungles, mysterious underground caves, and of course, diving in sparkling clear water next to some of the biggest coral reefs found anywhere on the planet. After visiting the amazing ruins of Chichn Itz and descending from the mountainous coastline that guards the central lowlands, one can journey by car, foot, or horseback to the ancient port city of Tulum, which still stands like the watchtower its Mayan builders intended it to be over a millennium ago. Those touring the coast will find an abundance of hostels and eco-lodges, with comfortable and environmentally friendly accommodations suitable for solitary travelers or whole families of adventurers (even of the very young variety). The setting sun and absence of inundating city lights provides a beautiful prelude to the clearest and most brilliant night sky you've ever seen with your own eyes.
Rare and Beautiful Birds
Anyone with a predilection for flora and fauna (which would include almost all small children) will be delighted at the bountiful and diverse population of animals and plants that one can view on a nature tour through the jungle. Birds especially are found in abundance; the varieties of brightly colored plumage, strange beaks and crests, and melodic calls echoing through the trees will bring a smile to the face of any bird-watcher, be they amateur, expert, or simply enthusiastic. To make the most of your walking tour, consider hiring an experienced jungle guide who can point out the myriad examples of avian and other jungle life. Many forest denizens have by necessity become quite adept at concealing themselves from all manner of hungry and prying eyes, and so having an extra and knowledgeable pair at your disposal could mean the difference between catching a glimpse of a particularly elusive species, like the majestic Guatemalan quetzal, and missing a rare opportunity.
The Ocean's Limitless Bounty
Not to be outdone by its neighboring earthbound habitats, the Riviera Maya seaside has its own unbelievable variety of flora and fauna sure to excite any visitors. If fishing is your passion, you'll scarcely believe the size and abundance of gamefish in these waters; however, those who prefer just to look will be equally satisfied. Opportunities abound to snorkel and dive near the Great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, one of the world's most extensive underwater habitats, and swim alongside dolphins, dazzlingly-colored tropical fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. Couples will surely want to enjoy romantic walks along the seashore, especially with the brilliant and soothing rays of the setting sun lavishing the seashore with illumination, and pick a few cowrie shells from the surf to take home as a souvenir of their visit.
All this and more is waiting just a short flight away at the exotic and unforgettable Riviera Maya. The next time you have a family vacation to plan, the choice of destination should be an easy one to make tearing yourself away from the fun will be the only difficult part!
About the Author:
Duende Tours is a tour operator with a special focus on adventure travel. See Duende Adventure Tours to find out more or go to Riviera Maya community.
