As today’s travellers look for low-impact and eco-friendly vacation experiences, the Mexican Caribbean region has unveiled its newest destination, Maya Ka’an – a stretch of Mayan communities and lush jungle surrounded by the biosphere reserve of Sian Ka’an.
Travellers visiting Maya Ka’an will discover untouched cultural traditions, exciting nature activities and stunning flora & fauna woven through the Mayan wonders of this unique destination.
Kayak Siijil Noh Ha
Dario Flota Ocampo, director of Quintana Roo Tourism Board, observes: “Travellers know and love Cancun, Tulum, Cozumel and Riviera Maya. Now they can learn about another side of the Mexican Caribbean in Maya Ka’an.”
Flota Ocampo added: “Maya Ka’an’s sustainable, off-the-grid status creates unparalleled experiences for travellers seeking true cultural immersion.”
Located south of Tulum and roughly two hours from Cancun International Airport, Maya Ka’an encompasses eight sites each offering distinct experiences.
In Kantemo, adrenaline-seekers can experience a nighttime bike ride through the jungle to reach a cave and witness wildlife in action as the cave’s snake residents prey on flying bats.
Muyil boasts historic Mayan architecture and tranquil wetlands, where visitors traverse back in time by kayaking the very lagoon Mayans used as a commercial route. Travellers seeking to immerse in historical traditions can join a chewing gum tour, where visitors witness the gum extraction process as originally created by the Mayans. Muyil waters provide the ideal spot for a peaceful swim as the sun sets.
Snorkel Punta Herrero
The small fishing village of Punta Allen houses a vast protected ecosystem of mangroves and marine life including dolphins, turtles and freshwater fish; visitors can observe Punta Allen’s abundant nature by kayak or bike. Similarly, Punta Herrero is prime for fly fishing.
Those looking for a spiritual Mayan experience will find it in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, where the eco-centre of Sijil Noh Ha offers visitors a relaxing walk among plants and herbs used for medicinal purposes. The medicinal plants are also found in a healing ceremony involving ancient techniques, dance and Mayan music that together inspire harmony of mind, body and spirit.
Food is one of the most significant ways to experience a culture, and in the culinary strongholds of Chunhuhub, Tihosuco and Senor, visitors can taste classic local dishes and delights from a home-cooked meal with Mayan families. In Chunhuhub, foodies will delight in a gastronomic tour scored by the traditional tunes of Maya Pax music.
Foodies and history lovers alike can explore a Mayan community with steadfast customs in Tihosuco, which features the Caste War Museum in its cultural offerings. Senor invites visitors to an intimate cultural tour where they will be enchanted by the historic tales of a Mayan priest and can witness the rich practice of handmade rope and the area’s unique stingless bees.
All tourist activities in Maya Ka’an are developed and managed by indigenous Mayan families thus all profits directly benefit the community, where the Mayan legacy of the Mexican Caribbean comes to life.
Go to http://mayakaan.travel/index.php?route=common/home for more.
