Xel-Ha is a spectacular eco-park located north of Tulum, about 15 minutes from our villa in Akumal. It lies on the eastern coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, the location of the Mayans in ancient times.
Multiple leisure, ecological and natural wonders offer things to do for the entire family. The unique open-sea aquarium allows visitors to see ocean life in its natural abode unchanged and not bothered.
Swimming with the dolphins is also a popular thing to do for visitors and it is usually not available in most places. Animal and nature lovers enjoy spending time in the ocean with these gentle mammals, and they will have a exciting story to bring back to their family and friends!
Snorkeling is also ideal in the local lagoon. The coral is dead there, but regular feeding keeps the many types of beautiful fish returning for dinner. Some snorkelers will have another person feed the fish so they can see the swimming visitors from below.
There is a river which starts in a natural spring, and inner tubes are used to float down the stream. This provides a relaxing complement to a short rest in a hammock on one of the beautiful beaches.
The more daring tourists enjoy climbing and diving from the local cliffs in Xel-Ha, touring the Mayan cave, and touring the local Xel-Ha ruins. These ruins are mostly unrestored and totally natural, with a unique view into past centuries and architectural contributions of the Mayans.
Hammock Island, Xpa, Bay of Caprices and The Beach are popular hotspots for those who want to rest and relax at Xel-Ha. Chacah Garden, the Mayan Wall, the Apiary and Plant Nursery provide unique ecological attractions for fauna lovers. Many examples of nature are also seen at the Inlet, El Dorado Cavern, Ixchel’s Gulf, the Mayan Cave, Chaac Mangal, and many cenotes.
When staying in Akumal, Xel-Ha is a short drive that the whole family will enjoy and offer a choice of activities for all. Tickets are reasonably priced. Xel-Ha is a one of a kind eco-park with things to do centering around relaxation, fun and seeing ancient and natural wonders.
Water sport lovers will enjoy the inner tube ride, cliff diving and snorkeling in the lagoon. Nature lovers will enjoy swimming with the dolphins and exploring the multiple forms of plant and animal life there, and those who want to know more about the history of the Yucatan Peninsula have an opportunity to explore the Mayan ruins and see the architectural influences of that era.
Our kids and grandchildren usually plan on spending the whole day at Xel-Ha when they visit Akumal. There is so much to do they never get tired of returning year after year. They like to ride a bicycle through a path in the jungle, jumping off the cliffs into the lagoon, swimming with the dolphins, and walking through stingrays on the bottom of the ocean.
This year for the first time they signed up for the Sea Trek. They wore a futuristic underwater helmet that looks like deep-sea diving equipment. Sea Trek does not require any previous training , diving or otherwise. Instructors are nearby at all times during the walk, aiding them in every way and easing any concerns about the aquatic walk of a lifetime. They all said it was a walk they would remember forever!
We think you will enjoy going to Xel-Ha on your next trip to the Yucatan.