Stay & See: 3 Luxury Mayan Riviera Excursions

The pull of the Yucatan peninsula is irresistible to travelers. It is one of the few places on earth where you can be immersed in the spectacular beauty of the natural world, while still enjoying the conveniences and luxuries of home.  Try these luxury Mayan Riviera Excursions to partake of the natural delights in this premier beach destination.

Interact with Wild Dolphins

Sian Ka’an is a biosphere reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site just south of Tulum. Several eco-friendly tours are offered here, but the most thrilling is the Wild Dolphin Encounter. Take an afternoon to cruise around the reef and meet these playful creatures in their native waters. You will also likely see manatees, tropical fish, and many varieties of birds. Lucky visitors will spot the white turtle, an elusive creature.
Pro Tip: The trip includes both breakfast and lunch at the lodge. There will be plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear bay before stopping by the reef to see beautiful starfish and other sea life.

Where to Stay: Casa Yakunah
Located in the Sian Kaan reserve – a UNESCO heritage site – Casa Yakunah is a low impact house. It was designed according to strict building standards to provide both privacy and luxury while impacting the native environment as little as possible. Almost all of its electricity comes from renewable sources such as wind and solar. The best part? Relaxing in the rooftop infinity pool and while you admire an endless stretch of sun and sky, as pelicans and other tropical birds fly overhead.

Explore the Cenotes

Beginning at Gran Cenote, you could easily spend several days exploring the Sistema Sac Actun Cenotes – the 2nd longest underwater cave system in the world. Whether you scuba, snorkel, or just swim, the water is refreshingly cool and clear. There are schools of beautifully colored fish and lots of friendly turtles to admire, and the rock formations beneath the surface are simply magnificent.
Pro Tip: Tours and rental equipment are available at the Gran Cenote, but we recommend hiring a private guide to make the arrangements. For a unique keepsake, bring along an underwater photographer to capture the memories.

Where to stay: Villa Miramar

Situated in the national park of Tulum’s pre-Columbian ruins, the beach directly in front of Miramar has some of the best snorkeling in the area. The wooden furniture is made from sustainably harvested materials, and the villa is proud to work with local artisans. The best part: Since the house is set in an archeological zone, where there are no electrical lines allowed, you’ll enjoy the beautiful sunrises and sunsets with no interfering light pollution.

Visit an Eco Theme Park

Take a day our from Playa del Carmen and enjoy this Xcaret, a privately owned and operated theme park, resort and self-described ecotourism development. Over 40 attractions will fascinate, educate, and entertain. Go on an archeological tour, participate in a traditional Fiesta Charra, or cheer at a native Mayan Ball Game. Nature lovers will enjoy visiting Jaguar Island and the colorful Butterfly Pavilion. The park also includes a re-created Mayan village  and a beautiful evening stage production, “Xcaret Mexico Espectacular” which depicts Mexico’s history.
Pro Tip: The park is large enough that you should be prepared to do a lot of walking, so bring good shoes, and wear light-weight clothing. We recommend the Xcaret Plus Package, which includes park transportation, swimming gear, and a meal.

Where to Stay: Kite House

Kite House is a secluded paradise entirely unique among Mexican villas. The location and floor plan were specifically selected to provide both privacy and convenience. In this “Smart House” everything from the air conditioning to the lights can be controlled by remote. The pool is chemical free and has a current to swim against for guests who want to exercise. Details such as the living bamboo fence, and a view of the Mayan ruins from the Master Bedroom encourage a feeling of intimate familiarity with the environment. The best part: unlike other beach homes which are openly gawked at by beach-goers, the Kite House is located up and away from the beach by just enough to keep privacy and security at a maximum, without sacrificing views.

*Originally published in Luxury Retreats Magazine