Mexico has remained one of the most popular destinations for most travelers around the world. Hence, many local and international tourists come here to explore the local culture, traditions, food and even geography and architecture. However, that can have an impact on the environment and the planet at large and on a micro-level that can impact the local people and their lifestyle.
So, what is ecotourism? In simple words, ecotourism is all about traveling responsibly that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of the local people. Today, many tours and travel companies focus on ecotourism and therefore they have to abide by the rules and guidelines of ecotourism.
Today, there has been a boom of ecotourism in Cancun and here are some activities that you can try.
Snorkeling in Sac Actun
If you are in Cancun you can find many beaches where you can opt for various water sports activities and snorkeling. However, one of the best experiences would be when you snorkel in Sac Actun which currently is the world’s largest underwater cave system. The cave provides you with crystal clear blue waters and spectacular stalactites and stalagmites that add to the beauty of the environment. Various locals today run Sac Actun tours and therefore you can opt for these tours that offer you the best experience. You can also get the snorkeling gear at the price of admission.
Bird Watching on Isla Pajaros
For various bird and nature lovers, Cancun has a lot to offer. Isla Holbox is a couple of hours far from Cancun but if you are interested in bird watching in Riviera Maya this is the place to be. Surrounded by brush, cactus and mangrove swamps, this island is a bird-watchers paradise as there are more than 150 species of birds on the island. If you love taking pictures of birds this is the best place you can be in Mexico.
Explore the Sian Ka’An Biosphere
Located near Tulum, Sian Ka’An is among the largest protected area in the Yucatan Peninsula. This place was designated as a Biosphere Reserve in the year 1986 and a year later UNESCO declared it as a World Heritage Site. If you are a nature lover you can explore this place and know more about the geography of Mexico. With 379 different species of birds, 115 species of mammals and 328 species of butterflies, Sian Ka’An is the most biodiverse region in Mexico. Hence, most nature and bird lovers would want to explore this place to explore the local flora and fauna in the best way possible.
Steam bathing the Mayan Way
While temazcal is not just a steam bath, temazcal can be found in many spas and resorts around Mexico. If you are in Cancun you can look for various places that can offer you the experience of temazcal the way it has been done for thousands of years. This would allow you to have a sneak peek into the world of Mesoamericans and their lifestyle. Getting a temazcal experience would help you to detoxify your body, cleanse the respiratory system and improve mental performance and help you recover quickly and beat depression. Also, if you have health issues you can consult before you opt for these tours that are a part of sustainable tourism in Mexico.
Exploring Mayan Ruins
If you are in Cancun you can explore the Mayan ruins in Chichen Itza. This is one of the eco-tours that you can find here where you get to explore the ruins of the city. It is among the most popular attractions in the Yucatan Peninsula and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Chichen Itza is just a couple of hours far from Cancun and therefore you can explore the ruins and the jungle around it.
