There are a variety of things to do near Akumal, a popular coastal resort on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Enjoy the white-sand, coral reef-dotted Akumal Beach, or swim with the brightly colored fish at Yal-Ku Lagoon. You can also visit the Aktun Chen Parque Natural, known for its freshwater pools, caves, and underground river.
Xcaret Park
The name Xcaret Park is a clever play on words; it means “pure land” in Maya. This is a natural park that was built on archaeological ruins and incorporated the natural environment, water, and history into its design. Visitors will find both educational opportunities and fun here. Although it isn’t a traditional theme park, it is a great place to take the whole family.
There are plenty of places to cool off, including a lagoon and natural pools. The park also features underground rivers called the Blue River, Maya River, and Manatee River. Each river is around 600 meters long, and you can use snorkeling equipment to float on the water.
Yal Ku Lagoon
If you’re interested in nature and wildlife, you can’t miss Yal Ku Lagoon. It’s a turquoise lagoon that’s home to tropical fish, sea turtles, and manta rays. There are also interesting sculptures and cottages to explore. If you’re looking for an alternative activity, you can even take a zip line tour!
The lagoon is five to 15 feet deep and is safe for snorkeling and diving. Those unfamiliar with the water may be concerned about the depth, but the shallow waters make for an excellent introduction to the sport. There are also plenty of places to change clothes and shower. A life jacket is recommended.
Taak Bi Ha cenote
There are several things to do near Akumal Cenote Taack Bi Ha, including a swim in the cenote, snorkeling, and ziplining. Taking a dip in the cenote requires a certain amount of skill and experience, but it is an unforgettable experience and is a favorite among divers and snorkelers alike. You can rent a flotation vest and snorkel mask at the entrance to the cenote.
Cenote Taak Bi Ha is a relatively new cenote in the Riviera Maya, sharing the same entrance as the popular Cenote Dos Ojos, but it is located much further into the jungle. It’s best to drive yourself to this cenote, although you can also hire a taxi. Just be sure to set a price before you arrive to avoid any surprises. Since it’s a new cenote, you’ll find it much less crowded than other cenotes.
Aktun Chen
If you’re a nature lover, you’ll love the Aktun Chen eco-park, located 5 minutes away from Akumal. It’s home to a five million-year-old cave, a zip line through the jungle, and a 6-acre natural zoo. You can park your car on-site or take a free shuttle from the highway. Combo tickets include swimming in a cenote, a cave tour, and zip lining. They cost $106 for adults and include lunch, while individual tickets range from $23 to $44. There are lockers and guides for your convenience.
A trip to Aktun Chen is a great way to spend a full day. The park features a five-million-year-old cave that was used by ancient Maya people for rituals. National Geographic has even named it one of the world’s top underground walks. The park also features an underground river and ten zip lines, so you can try something new. Just make sure you’re not afraid of heights!