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Wildlife Experiences

The Mexican Caribbean is the perfect destination to establish a true connection with nature. And with 7,938 species of fauna that have the honor of calling the region home, it’s no surprise! Quintana Roo is home to crocodiles, dolphins, manatees, jaguars, coatis, toucans, pumas, armadillos, and spider monkeys, in addition to several species of birds.

Making New Friends

Some species live here permanently while others only visit us during certain seasons, such as whale sharks. They can be seen from May to September in the Tiburón Ballena Biosphere Reserve, a site that is located between the waters of Holbox and Isla Mujeres

This species is almost always seen accompanied by giant manta rays, which makes swimming with whale sharks a unique and doubly magical experience.

If you consider yourself brave and adventurous enough, then we recommend two unforgettable experiences that you will treasure in your heart forever. Dive with bull sharks, which are found around the shores of Playa del Carmen from November to March. Or schedule a night diving tour with crocodiles in an open cenote in Tulum. It is important to note that you will need a diving certification to embark on these experiences.

Other underwater species you can interact with are eagle rays, present from December to March in Cancun and Cozumel; sailfish, found in Cancun and Isla Mujeres from January to March; sea ​​turtles in Akumal (located in the Riviera Maya); manatees in Chetumal Bay and Mahahual, dolphins in Holbox and Maya Ka'an, manta rays in Isla Contoy, tarpon fish in Xcalak and crocodiles in the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve.

On land, you can find other friendly creatures such as flamingos, a species that can be seen on Isla Pajaros—close to Holbox—from April to October. Isla Pajaros is one of the sites included in the famous "Tour of the Three Islands," which is offered by many providers on Holbox Island. The striking pink color of flamingos delights all visitors.

As if all this were not enough, 483 types of birds have been registered in the Mexican Caribbean, nine of them endemic, which is why groups of bird watchers from different parts of the world organize excursions here. Holbox, Puerto Morelos, Cozumel, Maya Ka'an, the Grand Costa Maya, and Isla Contoy (the most important bird sanctuary in the Mexican Caribbean) are some of the best places for birdwatching.

The golden rules

It is worth mentioning that to carry out any type of interaction with our wildlife, you will need to schedule a tour, be accompanied at all times by an experienced guide, and have the necessary equipment. The guides know where there is a greater possibility of finding the species, and above all, how to carry out this type of activity without putting yourself or the animals in danger. 

Do not forget that these are wild animals and that you are entering their habitat, so you must respect them at all times. Don't bother them or get too close to them, don't take flash photos, don't feed them; remember that some animals may act aggressively if they perceive a threat. 

Enjoy this perfect combination of adventure and nature that only the Mexican Caribbean can offer, the ideal addition to an unforgettable vacation.

 

Explore the Mexican Caribbean