Cancun is one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations. The area draws all types of visitors – including those looking to simply relax, celebrate a major life event, soak up some sun and for those looking for adventure. One of the most exciting adventures you can undertake while in Cancun is snorkeling. Snorkeling in Cancun has a lot to offer, including beautiful turquoise waters, an abundance of wildlife and natural reef formations. Here are six reasons why you should try snorkeling in Cancun.
1. Cancun is home to the Great Mayan Reef
The Great Mayan Reef is the world’s second-largest reef system, stretching more than 700 miles. The reef is home to six natural parks and draws snorkelers from around the world each year. You will find more than 500 fish species, 100 coral types and offers some of the best snorkeling & diving opportunities in the Riviera Maya and Costa Maya area.
2. You can explore Xcaret Eco Park
Located 40 miles south of Cancun, Xcaret offers snorkelers offshore experiences at Barracuda Reef where parrotfish and angelfish abound. While there, you can also explore underground caves, called cenotes; view the unusual rock formations and marine fossils.
3. You can view the largest underwater sculpture museum
If you’re a snorkeler in Cancun, one of the can’t-miss spots is Isla Mujeres, which is located at a 20-minute ferry ride from Cancun. Off the shore, you can explore Manchones Reef, which is just offshore and great for beginning snorkelers.
Located nearby is the largest underwater sculpture museum made from materials that promote marine life. The museum is home to sculptures from a wide array of Mexican artists, including Elier Amado Gil, Salvador Quiroz Ennis, Rodrigo Quinones Reyes and Karen Salinas Martinez.
4. You can go snorkeling at night
If you are looking for something a little different, you will have to try the Moonlight Bioluminescence Snorkeling Tour in the Mayan Riviera.
During the tour, you can check out the moray eels, squids, lobsters and perhaps even an octopus or sea turtle. You will be able to see all these wonderful sights thanks to tiny bioluminescent particles lighting up the water around you. It’s been a popular destination for snorkelers for many years.
5. You can explore a real shipwreck
If your interests include snorkeling and history, you need to check out the Reef, Turtle and Shipwreck Snorkeling Tour, which is great for snorkelers of all experience levels. Along with the shipwreck tour, you will see some amazing underwater artwork from Elier Amand Gil.
6. You’ll be able to check out Royal Garrafon Natural Reef Park
Royal Garrafon Natural Reef Park is a reef area bordered by cliffs that is located just about 25 minutes from Cancun. When snorkeling there, you will be able to swim through the turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean Sea and make your way all the way around the reef to discover its amazing sea life, colorful reefs, and picturesque ocean landscapes.
Snorkeling can be one of the best vacation options for any adventure-goer in Cancun — and there are options for every experience level.
