Xel-Ha

halmester's picture

Location

Quintana Roo
Mexico
20° 19' 1.9272" N, 87° 21' 28.1268" W
MX
General info: 

Xel-Ha is a beautiful natural aquarium in Cancun Mexico. The water in the cenotes, caves and lakes is mixed with spring waters resulting in the extreme clarity of the water.

You can dive and snorkel among the tropical fish and swim along the river discovering some of the 90 marine species that inhabit the creek. Even swimming with dolphins is possible here.

Historically, Xelha was one of several key ports of the Maya city of Coba; and a point of intercultural exchange between the Maya and other sea-navigating peoples between the 7th and 12th centuries. Later on the lagoon was used as a base by Spanish conquistadors during the ultimately unsuccessful first expedition in 1527–28.

Getting there: 

Xel-Ha Park is open 365 days a year from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It is located in the heart of the Riviera Maya, 110 km south of Cancun, 44 km south of Playa del Carmen.

Most common way to arrive here is an organized tour directly from hotel. There are also public buses from Cancun (Av Uxmal) and Playa del Carmen (5 th Avenue) to reach Xel-Ha.

Also easy to find if you have your own car.

Costs: 

An all inclusive package with all regular water activities + free drinks + breakfast is 80USD.
Same package with the dolphin swimming is around 240USD.

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