However, neither of us particularly like the idea of coming across a croc (my girlfriend in particular is terrified of them). Stylish, tranquil boutique nestled in forest, on a stunning stretch of beach near the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve. Hotels that had previously been used as hangouts for the locals are now used as breeding grounds, hunting grounds, and playground areas. In a rare welcome side-effect of the health crisis, the usually murky waterways are clear enough to see the schools of fish under the water. A few are even endangered or protected by the Mexican government. 4 outdoor pools provide fun for everyone, while guests in the mood for pampering can visit the spa to indulge in massages, body wraps, and aromatherapy. Get a monthly fix of travel inspiration - all of our newest and best recommendations We promise you wont get any marketing from us other than what you specify above. The crocodiles aren't looking for human interaction, but they are there. The Riviera Maya area is a popular destination because it sits on the coast of the Caribbean Sea but further inland there is so much to explore. Luckily though, he was helped by local law enforcement and medical personnel that arrived on the scene quickly. This time the sighting was outside of the Selina beachfront hotel, only a short distance away from the location of the other appearance of the large but reportedly calm reptile. The closest populations of saltwater crocodiles are in the southern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. The crocodiles aren't looking for human interaction, but they are there. In Xcaret, there are numerous activities and sites to explore, making it ideal for anyone who enjoys visiting parks. It wasnt long ago that tourists spotted another large reptile in Tulum, but this time it was swimming in one of the area cenotes. This snake prefers jungle areas because they are driven away from resorts and beaches. Dont Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip! White swans are also roaming the canals in a city where the usually overloaded piazzas and alleyways have become almost deserted, while air pollution has declined across northern Italy. Wiki User. Researchers from Stanford University say in places like China the reduction in air pollution has led to fewer premature deaths from breathing toxic air. Children under the age of four can enter for free, while children between the ages of five and eleven must pay a half-price. Kayaking, swimming, rappelling, and ziplining are just a few of the activities available along Puerto Morelos famous Ruta de Cenotes. And as croc encounters take place in glass-clear water you'll get some great pictures to prove it. They normally dont like being around humans anymore than we want to mingle with them. Beachside party hotel with great value rooms in traditional barefoot-chic Tulum beach cabanas, with comfort. If you want to see some amazing wildlife while visiting Riviera Maya Mexico then this is something you should consider seeing during your trip. Saginaw, Texas. Get answers to your questions about Riviera Maya, Must See and Do Activities and Excursions, Warning - drowning at Barcelo Maya Feb 2023. There is No beach for swimming or diving. Xcarets 50 natural and cultural attractions are only available as part of the basic package. The distance between Xcaret Park and Cancun is approximately 72 kilometers or 44.9 miles, as of 2017. The diversity of colors in this area is incredible, with toucans, parrots, eagles, and scarlet macaws all coexisting. The presence of crocodiles in the Riviera Maya region is well known. It was a strange feeling. You can use safety equipment such as life jackets when shopping for Xcarets various packages. Many people believe that crocodiles are dangerous, but they are actually quite shy and gentle creatures. While Xelha is a natural park, it does not mean it is dangerous, as crocodiles do not live in this area, the inlet characteristics are only appropriate for fish, stingrays, and Queen conchs. There are plenty of opportunities to snorkel over pristine reefs en-route, and youll catch invasive lionfish, which are used to feed the crocs. All rights reserved. Dolphins use sounds like clicks, whistles, squeals, chirps and knocks for communication between each other when hunting for food or communicating with each other about where they want to go next on their journey across the ocean! He argued that this situation is worrying because in addition to environmental issues, preserving the presence of such reptiles has also become a tourist attraction for the area. Going for a swim in certain areas that are not heavily patrolled can be a very bad idea. This animal has a powerful neurotoxin that attacks the nervous system in its venomous venom. Incredible footage shows how crocodiles, jaguars and sea turtles are 'taking back control' of two Mexican resorts as tourist activities are suspended and residents remains indoors during the. In the last few days these animals have attacked at least two people in the region. Visitors are separated from the cats by a wide, wide moat. A cab from any hotel will be . Entrance fees are around 200 pesos (USD$10) per person. Arellano said: 'These species lost their habitats when the cities expanded and their living spaces became smaller and smaller.'. Alligators are larger than crocodiles. In addition to a buffet meal at the restaurant of your choice, the package includes snorkeling gear for your underground rivers. Regional environment secretary Alfredo Arellano told local media: 'On average, we only see one leatherback sea turtle a year and the nesting season starts in May, it was something unusual.'. The croc bit the child, and tried to push him back into the water. We have made it easier for you by listing some of the most common species that can be spotted around Merida Yucatan Mexico: The jaguar is one of the largest predators in North America today and its skin has been used for centuries by humans as an important item for clothing or decoration. Want more recommendations in this destination? According to the first accounts, he was fishing and decided to go swimming, but without taking the necessary preventive measures. If youre bitten by one of these creatures, dont panicyou wont die from it unless it injects you with venom (which is unlikely). Book your stay at the Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa online and receive exclusive benefits from this wonderful hotel where you're guaranteed the vacation of a lifetime. There are many sea turtles protected at Xcaret, including massive turtles. Hotels in Cancun are invaded by raccoons, crocodiles, boas, and raccoons. The park is famous for its many activities and attractions, as well as its natural and archaeological sites. Bats are one of the most diverse groups of mammals on earth and some live in colonies that number into the millions! Guide to Mexican Real Estate Law Mexican Property Laws, Listings of Properties for Sale in Mexico, Houses and Villas for Sale in Playa del Carmen, El Cielo Residencial in Playa del Carmen Mexico Homes for Sale in El Cielo, Mareazul Luxury Beachfront Condos in Playa del Carmen, Tulum Real Estate Agents Free Service & No Obligation, Vacation Home Ownership in Riviera Maya: Local Laws and US Differences, Investing in Condo-Hotels in Mexico: A Simple Guide for Americans, Easy Mexican Spanish Phrases for Americans to Learn, Guide to Buying a Property in Puerto Aventuras as an American, Why American Investors Seek Cash-Based Mexican Real Estate, American Investors Flock to Riviera Maya for Flexible Short-Term Rental Options, How to Find Property for Sale in Tulum Mexico as an American. In addition to being the only Xcaret park with unlimited alcohol, the Xel-Ha park is one of the best for adults. Laguna . There is another similar option for the same price but with a . Weve been to the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? In the video viewers can see a handful of tourists racing to get away from the slow-moving crocodile, which was reportedly just swimming calmly through the waters and not bothering anyone. Explore coral reefs, ancient history, and nature in the Riviera Maya on an combination tour that features some of the best of Yucatan in a single day. Adults only. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bw37G1z00DU, Ive been to Grand Sirinis a few times and never saw a Croc. A record was set by Xcaret for the most macaws born in one year at the same facility, according to Guinness World Records. At one point though, he did get the sense that there was something in the water. are there crocodiles in riviera maya. Its most well-known for its bright colors, such as red, yellow, and black. If so, there are lots of alligators in Florida, Texas and Louisiana, so you might want to nix those as potential vacation spots as well. One of the best places to see American crocodiles in their natural habitat is the Nichupte Lagoon in Cancun. My girlfriend and I have planned a trip to the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Unlimited Xcaret Xperience (UXX) is designed exclusively for guests of this hotel and includes unlimited access to Xcaret Park during their stay and more than 40 exhibits and attractions in the world-renowned Xcaret eco-archae UXX visitors can take a guided tour of the park to learn more about the site and its history. These cenotes all have changing facilities, plus flashlights, life vests and snorkeling equipment for hire. Our website offers a wealth of information on all things reptilian, from care and husbandry tips to in-depth articles on the natural history of these amazing creatures. The American crocodile is the largest in the world and can reach a length of up to 18 feet and weigh up to 1,000 pounds. The latest report indicated that the authorities provided a stable state of health. More on those later! Level Contributor . The area is home to two species: American Crocodile and Morelet's Crocodile. Don't let the thought of them being in "nature" have an effect on your vacation planning. Children over 13 only. Xcalak-based dive operator and specialist operator for crocodile-swimming trips in the Banco Chinchorro. Xcarets rivers run beneath the sea and are fed by a mangrove sanctuary that is home to pink flamingos. Are they as rare a sighting as people suggest? Crocodiles are there all year-round, conditions but mating and nesting periods mean that other months are not viable. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you should definitely plan a trip here. When the man arrived at shore his relatives pointed out to him that he was bleeding from what seemed to be a very deep wound in his left leg. The city of Playa del Carmen, known simply as Playa in the state of Quintana, Mexico, is located along the Caribbean Sea and is known locally as Playa Roo. This community is located in the municipality of Solidaridad. I may be making a fool of myself here but it wouldn't be the first time!! Boats leave from Xcalak village 280 km from Tulum in the far south of the Riviera Maya. If so, there are lots of alligators in Florida, Texas and Louisiana, so you might want to nix those as potential vacation spots as well. The city of Cancun and the Riviera Maya region, which includes the cities of Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Xpu-Ha, Akumal, Soliman's Bay, Tank Ha Bay, and Tulum are only separated by about 20 miles, and both encompass long stretches of beach access. It is important for visitors to always pay attention to flags on . A Jungle Paradise Built for Luxury Named as one of the Top 5 hotels in Eastern Mexico by Cond Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards, Vidanta Riviera Maya is an experience like no other.