Barefoot Riviera Maya: Puerto Morelos

[Iberostar Hotels & Resorts]

Forty minutes south of Cancún, Puerto Morelos is the main port of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. This might suggest industrial activity, with large cargo ships and other features that would not make it at all appealing for visitors. But instead, this is a charming, laid-back  fishing town with a barefoot-Caribbean feel and a population of just under 10,000. And in recent years, it's been attracting increasing interest from outsiders, whilst still retaining much of its traditional charm.

The barrier reef here lies just 500 meters offshore here; declared a national park, it's part of one of the world’s most important barrier reefs, an ideal place for scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing and other marine activities. The town also offers has botanical gardens spanning over 65 hectares and a zoo featuring boas, ocelots and especially crocodiles of all ages.

The beaches of Puerto Morelos, given their special geographic disposition, are considered the best of the Mexican Caribbean coast, with their fine, smooth white sand, and they are protected within the marine park, meaning there are virtually no buildings. Here you can practice non-engine propelled sea activities such as kayaking, and the waters are especially suited for diving and snorkeling, allowing you to access a marine landscape of most uncommon beauty.



Also, nearby you'll find has several cenotes, springs originating from underground rivers where you can enjoy a swim in the midst of the exuberant rain forest. Some of these now have amenities including bathrooms, picnic and camping areas, even activities such as ziplines. Others are much wilder, giving travelers the feel of being in a natural environment far-removed from civilization.

Another attraction in the area is the Crocodile Zoo, where visitors can watch these incredible animals in their daily affairs. And you can also see boas, deer, spider monkeys and ocelots, all in captivity, and even interact with some of these species.

And for sports lovers, Puerto Moleros is one of the prime destinations for cycling fans, because you can ride a bike along beautiful routes that are quite safe, because there are very few motor vehicles.

IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts has 7 hotels in the Mayan Riviera, located between Playa del Carmen and Playa Paraíso, two of the most beautiful places in the region.

from our blog PassportTo...