Page 84 - Visitor Guides

THE GREAT MAYAN REEF YUCATAN, MEXICO

• Cozumel
The northern limit of the Mesoamerican Reef originates along the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula where the reef skirts a
coastline characterized by expansive beaches of white coral sand. The living reef is close, and often visible from shore, but with • Tulum
many areas of the reef completely submerged and with long stretches of open water it is not as well formed as the barrier reef
farther south in Belize waters. Our area of exploration in the Yucatan begins 200 miles south of Cancun and avoids the overly Caribbean

developed areas of Cancun and Playa Del Carmen. Beyond Tulum, south to the Belize border, this coastal area is just beginning to
be discovered. This section of the coast is dotted with quiet fishing villages and small eco-resorts. Fortunately, the area benefits
from the protection of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve (encompassing 1.3 million acres and over 130 km of coastline) and the Sea
adjoining marine reserves of Xcalak and Bacalar Chico which protect the more diverse and fragile of Mexico’s coral reef habitats.

With the proximity of the reef to the mainland, our range of activity is varied - we are able to paddle into the lagoons and mangrove- Sian Ka’an
Biosphere Laguna
lined channels that link with the sea. We might point our boats to shore after snorkelling, heading for a fresh seafood lunch at a Uvero
Reserve
favourite beach palapa and drink from fresh green coconuts offered by a local fisherman before heading out on the water again.
Banco
These same sheltered waters of the coastal lagoons were once used by the Maya as part of an ancient network of trade routes
Mahahual • Chinchorro
interconnecting cities and ceremonial centers which once existed all along the Yucatan Coast. Our routes of travel by sea kayak Barrier Reef Atoll
open a world of exciting activities: beautiful coral reefs for snorkelling and diving, gorgeous beaches for which the Yucatan is Laguna
Rio Uach
famous and classic still waters where much prized fish like bonefish and tarpon flourish in the nutrient laden waters.
Xcalak •
Bacalar Chico

For detailed itineraries visit activemexicovacations.com 13