Xel-Ha Natural Park
If you like adventures and nature, this is your place: Xel-Há Park.
This park is located in Mexico, in the state of Quintana Roo, in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
It is located exactly 122 km south of Cancun, and approximately 13 km north of the Tulum archaeological site.
This park has coves and cenotes in which the water flowing subway from the Yucatan Peninsula merges with the Caribbean Sea.
This creates an environment with the perfect conditions for the coexistence of multiple freshwater aquatic species, which gives it a similarity to an aquarium, in short... a natural aquarium.
Xel-Ha History
It is essential to know that this place was the settlement of the Mayas during the pre-Hispanic era, where port activities were developed.
The name "Xel-Ha" comes from the Mayan language, and means "where the water is born".
Later, when the Spaniards began to arrive in this place, they provoked distrust in the inhabitants, so they decided to seek refuge in the southern area of the peninsula, in uncolonized regions.
According to the analysis of historians, the place had already been completely abandoned during the first decades of the XVI century.
Currently, on November 16, 1994, the government granted a concession for the land where Xel-Há is located to a group of partners, who initiated sustainable tourism programs so as not to damage the local environment.
Activities in Xel-Ha
The Faro Mirador ("Lighthouse Faro") and its WaterSlide.
It is a fun ride, first you go up to the Faro Mirador Lighthouse building and contemplate the incredible 360 degree view of the entire Xel-Ha park.
Then, you can pull its four 30-meter high waterslides that will take you to the crystalline waters of the pools.
Coves and Cenotes
The great attraction of Xel-Ha is undoubtedly its wonderful set of coves and cenotes, a place where sea water enters the continent simultaneously with fresh water channels that flow into it.
Here you can observe and enjoy the company of approximately 70 aquatic specimens, including parrot fish, snapper, chopa, rubia and rays.
Water Activities
Another attraction is the opportunity to practice multiple water sports in the cove, rivers and lagoons.
Like Scuba Diving, unlimited Snorkeling and Snuba, so you can admire for a moment the wonders that Xel-Ha offers.
With the help of professional instructors you will be able to do any of these sports, and be amazed observing the coexistence between manatees, dolphins and other species.
In addition, you can do the "Sea Trek" or "underwater walk": you dive to depths of approximately 5 to 7 meters, with a helmet that will allow you excellent visibility and will provide you with enough oxygen to admire this ecosystem in detail.
Outdoor activities
Other activities such as zip-lining, walking on the floating bridge, exploring the rivers and mangroves, bike rides, etc, are available at Xel-Ha Park.
There is also a children's sector where there are hanging games, slides, tunnels and other games for the little ones to have a great time with their parents.
Restaurants and Bars
Xel-Ha is an all-inclusive park, food and drinks are included in the ticket.
Both breakfast and the buffet restaurant are included, and you can go as many times as you want to help yourself to the exquisite dishes of the restaurant.
In Xel-Ha there are several restaurants where you can serve yourself.
And drinks too, you can go to all the bars in Xel-Ha and serve yourself the original drinks of the place.
Places to Relax in Xel-Há
The park also has quieter options to relax, such as a walk along a beautiful trail to contemplate the flora and fauna of the Riviera Maya.
At Jardín de los Chacahs you can contemplate the harmonious beauty of trees typical of the region.
Other places like Bahía de los Caprichos, Meliponario, or Santuario del Caracol Rosa, you can find peace and harmony of nature.
Xel-Ha Excursion Prices
If you want to visit Xel-Ha from Cancun, it is best to book an excursion.
Here you can see the price and more details: Excursion to Xel-Ha from Cancun.