Exploring Puerto Morelos: Top Activities to Savor
Discover Puerto Morelos: A Hidden Gem on Mexico's Riviera Maya
Nestled between lush mangroves and vibrant coral reefs, Puerto Morelos offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque town, located on the Riviera Maya, is just a 40-minute drive from the bustling city of Cancun.
One of Puerto Morelos' most notable attractions is its proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest coral reef in the world. This underwater paradise is home to a diverse array of marine life, making it an excellent destination for snorkelling and scuba-diving. Whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea, migrate to these waters during the summer months, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with these majestic creatures.
For those seeking a more land-based adventure, Puerto Morelos offers a variety of activities. The town is home to one of the top cooking schools in the Yucatan - The Little Mexican Cooking School, where you can learn the secrets of traditional Mexican cuisine. If you're interested in exploring Mexico's rich history, the town is a gateway to several Mayan Ruins, including Tulum, Coba, Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Uxmal. Tulum and Coba are the easiest and quickest to reach, while Chichen Itza and Ek Balam require an early start.
Chichen Itza, considered the most important Mayan site, is believed to have been a major trade centre and capital city. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient civilizations. Uxmal, while less visited, is still impressive with beautiful examples of Puuc-style architecture and a layout designed according to astronomical events.
Volunteering in Puerto Morelos is another rewarding activity. Organisations like GVI (Global Vision International) offer Mexico volunteer projects focused on marine conservation or community development in collaboration with the local community. Volunteering during the mid-May to September period increases the chances of seeing hundreds of migrating whale sharks around the island of Isla Mujeres.
The Jardin Botanico in Puerto Morelos is another must-visit destination. Spanning a 65-hectare reserve, it's the largest botanical garden in Mexico. The garden features two kilometers of scenic walking trails with sections dedicated to the different types of plants found in the Yucatan. The Jardin Botanico is also home to the only troops of coastal spider monkeys left in the region.
Adventure seekers will also enjoy La Ruta de Los Cenotes, a 32-kilometer stretch of road near Puerto Morelos. Some cenotes in this route have been transformed into adventure parks, offering activities like zip lining, mountain biking, and learning about Mayan rituals.
Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Puerto Morelos offers something for everyone. So why not plan your next trip to this hidden gem on Mexico's Riviera Maya?
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