Xel-Há, Mexico for Tourism

Xel-Ha is located on the east coast of the Yucatán peninsula, in the State of Quintana Roo. It is one of the most important archeological sites of Maya civilization. The Mayas named it Xel-Ha, a term formed by Xel meaning origin or Spring and Ha meaning water; which translates as “where the water is born”. This paradise in the Mayan Riviera displays the Caribbean’s most spectacular nature.

According to legend, Maya gods joined their wisdom, illusions and love for beauty. They called it Xel-Ha and were so proud of their creation that they decided to allow the entrance of mortals, but first they designated the macaw, lora fish and iguana as “Guardians of Xel-Ha” to protect its sky, sea and land.

During the pre-Columbian era, from the VII to XII centuries, the Mayas took advantage of the Xel-Ha location, turning it into an important merchant port for commercial exchange among the region’s communities.
Currently, Xel-Ha is a water park offering a great variety of activities so you can appreciate its captivating natural beauty. The Caleta with the flow of river Xel-Ha through its rocks can be navigated by placidly floating on a tire while water transports you through this paradise, you can also challenge the water’s current to create your own adventure or relax on its multiple beaches. The Caleta of Xel-Ha has reefs, marine plants and more than a thousand multicolored fish, including the “water’s guardian”, the lora fish or Kay-Op.

Some of the fascinating activities you can do in Xel-Ha is kayak on its mythical Laguna Negra (Black Lagoon), through this natural route where the water flora renews itself you can observe iguanas, coatis and multicolored fish. This water park also offers its peculiar Aquaventure, a snorkel tour guided by professionals to discover the spectacular marine ecosystem, an unforgettable experience for swimmers of all levels. Have fun by also exploring the reef’s treasures while practicing Sea Trek and Snuba, innovative adventures you can carry out in Xel-Ha, a pleasant walk on the bottom of the submarine world with special equipment or a combination of scuba and snorkel.
Delphinus is a carefully created space for establishing a bond between humans and dolphins. It provides an extraordinary opportunity to swim with dolphins in an environment very similar to the ocean. This program allows you to swim and enjoy these friendly and intelligent animals. An unforgettable experience for enjoying their peace and care while learning everything about them.

Test your courage in the many adventure activities of Xel-Ha. The river, supplied by subterranean fresh water springs, flows through the mangroves to Bahía de los Caprichos and you can explore its majestic marine flora and fauna while practicing snorkel throughout its bed. Alongside the river you will find the Stone of Courage, a sixteen feet high platform from where the courageous can jump! The Trepachanga tests your balance, if you accept the challenge, you will have to walk 164 feet on two ropes suspended over the river. The Flight of Mo, located at Aventura Cenote, challenges you to fly from a rope to the refreshing water of the Cenote among majestic trees for having the perspective of Mo, the macaw guardian of the skies.

The magic of Xel-Ha can also be enjoyed on land. The train will take you on a relaxed tour, so you only need to concentrate on observing the fantastic flora and fauna of the jungle. You can also exercise while touring the jungle on bicycle, available completely free of charge for visitors at the train stations.

Located 75 miles to the south of Cancun, it is located on kilometer 240 of the highway to Chetumal. If traveling from Cancun, you can take a bus to Tulum and ask the driver to drop you off at Xel-Ha Park; this highway is only 5 minutes away from the main entrance. If you are in Cozumel, the best option is to take the ferry to Playa del Carmen, its bus station is only two blocks away from the dock and from there take a bus directly to Xel-Ha.


Artículo Producido por el Equipo Editorial Explorando México.
Copyright Explorando México, Todos los Derechos Reservados.
Foto: Dkaz