AQUATIC ACTIVITIES
DIVING
Tulum is considered to be one of the most beautiful
places in the world for scuba diving and snorkeling. And
not without reason; all along the coast there is the
great Mesoamerican reef, the second largest coral system
in the world after Australia. It also has a large
diversity of flora and fauna species, with hundreds of
multicolored species and many marine creatures. The
crystal clear waters offer a movie-like spectacle.
Excursions are available for underwater activities in
the open sea, underground rivers, caves and sink holes;
you can also rent kayaks and sailboats and practice
windsurfing and kite surfing. There is a wide range of
agencies with equipment and guides for both beginners
and experts.
Like all the towns and cities
located along the Caribbean coast in the Riviera Maya,
Tul? is situated right next to the Mesoamerican Reef,
the second largest coralline system in the world. This
makes Tul? a natural playground for divers and
snorkelers who wish to experience its tranquility and
crystalline waters, which house hundreds of fish and
coral species.
The calm turquoise sea invites you to snorkel without
risks, because it is always practiced in guided groups,
and it is mandatory to use a life vest. One of the
advantages is that the reef is not too deep. There is no
need to be a good swimmer, just delve into the
adventures offered by this new experience.
Help to preserve and protect the underwater reef life of
Tul?; please do not throw trash on the beach or the sea.
The Mexican government has an applicable law that
protects the reef, in which it prohibits touching or
taking any kind of underwater life like coral, snails,
starfish to mention some.
CENOTES
THE SACRED MAYA WELLS
Millions of years ago, the peninsula of Yucat? was
covered by the ocean; today, its singular calcareous
soil consists of fossilized coral and former ocean
floor. The entire area's lack of aboveground rivers is
duly compensated by the existence of a network of
underground rivers, caves and caverns that are fed by
rainwater, which filters through the limestone and then
flows towards the sea.
During the ice age, most of the underground cave systems
dried up and the water that dripped through the porous
limestone created the most extraordinary rock
formations, which boast an incredible series of
stalactites and stalagmites. When the underground rivers
began flowing again, parts of the limestone vaults
eroded, weakened and finally collapsed, unveiling a
series of fresh water sinkholes. These were called
"cenotes" by the ancient Maya, who considered them the
entrance into the spiritual underworld.
It is recommended to take your own snorkeling or diving
gear and insect repellent.
Visits the following Cenotes:
-
Dos ojos
-
Gran Cenote
-
Parque Tan Kah
-
Cenote Calavera
-
Cenote Carwash
-
Cenote Cristal
-
Cenote Escondido
-
Labna Ha
-
Manati
Cenotes are usually private-owned, so
an entrance fee must be paid. Most offer rustic
bathrooms, as well as parking; they close at 5pm.
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