Depending on which eco-park youre visiting, its another five to 30 minutes from there by car. Let us help plan your perfect weekend with this two-day itinerary for a trip to the sociable, happy-go-lucky paradise of Playa del Carmen. The American crocodile can also be found in Hispaniola, Cuba, Jamaica, along the Caribbean coast from southern Mexico to Venezuela, and along the Pacific coast from Mexico to Peru, as well as along the Caribbean coast from southern Mexico to Venezuela. The answer is that some of the cenotes are home to crocodiles. As the closest town to Chichen Itza, Valladolid is a popular launchpad for visitors to the new world wonder. Sian Kaan is a protected area in Mexico that is home to many different species of animals. Although previously thought to be harmless to humans, recent reports of attacks on humans include at least 12 documented fatalities. First, drop in at San Gervasio Maya ruins, a pilgrimage center for the Mayans. They are present all over the world. A cenote is a natural pit or sinkhole resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath, and these unique dives are not to be missed when visiting the Yucatan peninsula. There are an estimated 200 crocodiles living in and around Punta Allen. Grab a snack in the mercado municipal (town market) before strutting down the photogenic Calzada de los Frailes, a street lined with boutiques and galleries converted from old colonial houses.. Often confused with the saltwater crocodile which inhabits Australia and many places in the Indo Pacific region, the American Crocodile is generally less aggressive towards humans. Sleeping in a hammock in a hut with no amenities may not be for everyone, but it's the only option if you want to experience the crocs of Chinchorro. How to get to Isla Cozumel It is well-known for its swimming ability, and it has been spotted far out at sea. In the wild, they typically live near bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and swamps. Here's how to take a week-long road trip to explore the best of the Yucatn Maya archaeological sites. Re: Crocodiles in Playa Del Carmen Cozumel is an easy 45-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen center. Over 6,000 cenotes are peppered around the Yucatn Peninsula, and a few of the lesser-known ones are found near Playa del Carmen. 173shares The body of a man found surrounded by crocodiles in a lagoon at a Cancn golf course late last week has been identified as a crafts vendor from Playa del Carmen. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.What are forum guidelines? All rights reserved. Crocodiles have been discovered in a few cenotes in Tulum, but the vast majority of cenotes near Tulum are devoid of them. There are no crocodiles in Cancun. Crocodiles are large, reptilian predators that have been around for millions of years. One of the earliest and longest inhabited ancient Maya sites in the Yucatan, Muyil is situated within the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and contains the ruins of 22 pre-Hispanic settlements. Sri Lanka has two species of crocodiles. Was thinking of Cozumel, Holbox, Isla mugeres? Alligators live primarily in North and South America. They help to keep the mangrove swamps healthy by eating smaller animals and keeping the population in check. After exploring the Tulum ruins, duck into the Mystika Tulum right by the exit. What you won't find in marine life is made up for by stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, piercing sunrays, and eerie layers of hydrogen sulfide. The crocodile expeditions include a few nights in Xcalak before and/or after the trip to allow flexibility, as weather and sea conditions can make getting to or from Banco Chinchorro downright unpleasant and occasionally impossible. The driver will stop you close to the entrance. The three days spent in the water with crocs were nothing short of incredible. Cenotes Zapote Ecopark is home to four different cenotes, including one with prehistoric sloth fossils found 50m deep. Given the fact that American crocodiles are critically endangered, a significant number of the population is estimated to exist in this lagoon. One of our favorites is Selvtica, which boasts 10 different zip lines, flying fox circuits, and a bungee swing. If you want to get a closer look at these reptiles, you can schedule a private tour. The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) can be found in a number of countries in the Americas, including Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and South Florida. If you are planning to visit Punta Allen, be sure to take precautions to avoid any potential danger from the crocodiles. One of the earliest and longest inhabited ancient Maya sites in the. Under the thick jungles of the Riviera Maya lies a dreamy underworld of natural turquoise pools and water-filled caverns. Did you hear the one about the island that disappeared? Crocodiles live in a warm climate that ranges between 85 and 95F, making them cold-blooded. Each morning of the three crocs days began with a dive to hunt for lionfish, an invasive species not native to these waters. We dived here in lieu of the more well-known Car Wash cenote, and it did not disappoint. If youre lucky, you might even spot manta rays and squid., Its mandatory to join a guided tour if you want to snorkel within the protected area. 22 replies; Valentin Imperial Maya Resort Map 18 replies; Paradisus La Esmeralda / La Perla any updates ? Our final dive of the trip took place at the lesser-known Cenote Tajma Ha which has everything you could want in cenote: haloclines, stalactites, stalagmites, speleothems, sunbeams, fossils, and even bats! All three are open-air cenotes with water deep enough for grownups to plunge into from the cliffs edge and shallow pools for the little ones to wade in.. The town has only 400 residents and is surrounded by nature and peace. If you dont drive, take a colectivo from Juarez Avenue towards Tulum. Interested in joining our next trip to Mexico to experience crocodiles and dive cenotes? Its historical center, crowned by the prominent stonewalled Iglesia de San Servacio, sprawls out in a maze of artisanal shops, restaurants, and cantinas. Spot crocodiles on a boat ride on its saltwater marsh and climb to the top of the Celarain Lighthouse both of which are included in your entrance ticket. I have seen a few crocs diving cenotes but rarely. And these are not the same as Nile crocs or Salt water crocs. A lot smaller and much friendlier. There were fewer crowds and the lake of lily pads provided ample shots for photography. End your day trip on a high note with a snorkeling excursion to El Cielo, where you can swim off the worlds second-biggest reef, the Mesoamerican Reef. The average weight of a crocodile is about 1,000 pounds. When we traveled to Cancun we saw crocodiles in the lagoon area along the main drag that runs through town - we were walking on the sidewalk at night and saw these people huddling over an embankment down to the lagoon area and sure enough there was one down there about 15 feet. Web cam live in playa del carmen beach!!!!! Outside of the city, you'll want to explore. Yes, visiting Playa del Carmen is safe for families. This is because crocodiles cannot live in salt water, and Cancun is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. Video footage of the corpse being eaten by crocodiles later hit social media, and on Saturday family members in nearby Playa del Carmen saw it and identified the victim asa 44-year-old handicrafts vendor. As humans develop those wetlands, their inhabitants have migrated to new spaces, even in Progreso, Sisal and Celestn, reportsthe Secretariat of Urban Development and Environment. Each cenote has its own entrance gate, car park, and changing facilities. Both have comfortable, air-conditioned ferries that leave on time. Though hunting and capturing lionfish was the primary objective, we couldn't help but be distracted by the playful sharks all around. How is there definitely not crocodiles in the underwater Playa del Carmen. High-speed ferries depart regularly, daily. Morelets crocodiles are opportunistic, preying on practically anything that they can overpower. Iguanas ranging from small to massive roam the island, and crocodiles are frequently seen in the lagoon here. Immerse in the planetarium dome and look around the mirror-filled square room youll leave with renewed perspectives. The crocodiles in Punta Allen are an important part of the local ecosystem. Crocodiles can be found in many different parts of the world, including Mexico. To explore the island inside out, hire a Jeep for the day and drive the 30-mile (48km) loops around the island.. End the day trip with a dip in Cenote Zaci, a sinkhole just a 10-minute walk from the center. Though only one of us caught a fleeting glimpse of a manatee in the distance, we all agreed that swimming through the channel among schools of tarpon was mesmerizing. The newspaper El Universal reported on the weekend that the Nichupt lagoon system is overpopulated by crocodiles, whose habitat has been invaded by humans. Known for its spectacular formations of stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and crystal-clear water, this cenote blew me away, and is one I would happily dive again and again. They have been found in public spaces and on private property. As any seasoned diver can attest, we're often looking for new adventures and underwater experiences. Most people speak Engish, and theres a family-friendly atmosphere no matter where you go. info@bluewaterdivetravel.com, BLUEWATER TRAVEL AUGUST 2019 CROCS & CENOTES TRIP REPORT. There are protected lagoons with wild crocodiles and birds galore, a lighthouse you can climb to the top of for epic views, and then the beach area This is one of our favorites. If theres one thing worth dragging yourself away from the shores of Playa del Carmen, its the cenote(freshwater springs). I am Romero Esposito, and I am passionate about reptiles. The couple hour boat ride to Chinchorro was calmer than expected and to our delight, the crocs were already there when we arrived. They might be slightly commercial, but they promise both adults and children a thrilling good time and rarely disappoint.. Though it may sound rigid, these precautions are what have allowed the operator to maintain an excellent safety record. In the last few days, at least two humans have been attacked by these animals in the area. Katie Yonker's full account and photos of the Mexico dive trip that she led to Banco Chinchorro and Playa Del Carmen for crocodiles and cenotes in August 2019. For Mrida Noche Blanca 2023, SoHo Galleries is front and center, Curtain rising on a more Yucatecan Yucatn Symphony Orchestra, For Van Baltus, the magic continues at Teatro Libertad, Free exhibition featuring the work of artist Marc Chagall on display in Mrida, Mayan proposed to join Spanish as an official language in Yucatn. Crocodile leather is used to make a variety of products, including belts, wallets, and shoes. After being hunted to near-extinction in the past, the number of crocodiles has grown significantly since the Mexican government began protections in 1996 with the creation of the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve. However, Punta Allen is also home to a large number of crocodiles. Why is Las Coloradas pink? We started the morning off early by visiting The Pit, a well-known cenote deep in the jungle known for stunning sunbeams. We will also enjoy birdwatching, as many species of waterfowl make their homes along the mangroves. Culturally minded travelers will not want to miss this cute colonial town. Who is Mara Herrera, Mexicos madre buscadora who made it onto the Time 100 list? This book showcases 50 of the greatest road trips on Earth, from classic routes in America, Australia and Europe, to incredible adventures in Asia and Africa. You will be picked up from your Playa del Carmen Hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM and go to the wetlands near Cancun. An avid diver and travel planner, Katies adventures have taken her to the far reaches of the globe to destinations such as Micronesia, Indonesia, the Philippines, French Polynesia, Palau, Australia, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Red Sea, South Africa, Maldives, Hawaii, Galapagos, Cocos, Socorro, Central America, the Caribbean, and many non-dive locations. If you prefer private transport, take a colectivo from Avenida Juarez in the direction of Tulum. WebYes, there are saltwater crocodiles along the Caribbean coast of Mexico. Climb the viewing tower, and youll see what I mean., Mainly popular with locals, Kaan Luum has miraculously escaped the major tourist radar despite being just a 15-minute drive from Tulum town. There were fewer crowds and the lake of lily pads provided ample shots for photography. One of the best kept secrets of Sian Kaan is El Blanquizal at Punta Allen. Are crocodiles common in the areas near cenotes? WebThe Americas. We will also enjoy birdwatching, After a hot and humid walk through a densely packed jungle scattered with ruins, we boarded the van and continued on to Xcalak. 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. Interested in joining our next trip to Mexico to experience crocodiles and dive cenotes? The Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve that houses Las Coloradas spans a whopping 150,000 acres and is teeming with animals like flamingos and crocodiles. ), a large deck from which to watch and gear up, and a kitchen/bedroom occupied by the owner. After being hunted to near-extinction in the past, the number of crocodiles has grown significantly since the Mexican government began protections in 1996 with the creation of the. The driving time to the start of the Ruta de los Cenotes is roughly 35 minutes from Playa del Carmen. ADO bus has regular departures from Playa del Carmen to Valladolid, with one-way fares starting from M$206 (US$9.85)., You might also like:The best beaches in Playa del Carmen for spring break relaxationFive family adventures in the Riviera MayaThings to know before going to Playa del Carmen to make your trip more memorable. The best beaches in Playa del Carmen for spring break relaxation, Five family adventures in the Riviera Maya, Things to know before going to Playa del Carmen to make your trip more memorable, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. FT: Will AMLO turn out to be a fiscal hawk? Its easily accessible by car: take the 305D highway north and then west along the 108 tolled highway. The three days spent in the water with crocs were nothing short of incredible. The American crocodile can be found in a variety of densities along the Pacific Coast and the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as a few coastal islands and one isolated inland population, in Mexico. Playa del Carmen, or Playa, is a resort city located in the state of Quintana in Mexico, and it is known locally as Playa. Standard prices M$300 (US$15) per person includes snorkeling gear and life vests. Here's our guide to the best things to do while you're there. Crocodiles and alligators, both of which belong to the Crocodilia order, share some characteristics. The dive on the way out to Chinchorro usually takes place at a site known for friendly nurse sharks which follow you throughout the dive. Progreso, Yucatn Destruction of natural cienegas has pushed crocodiles into view along the Yucatecan coast. We were picked up in a comfy van plenty big for the seven of us and all our gear, and began the drive to Xcalak. As you can see, crocodiles are found in most of the major tourist destinations in Mexico- Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Zihuatanejo, Acapulco, Playa Del Carmen, etc. How safe is it to go snorkelling/ swimming in the ocean? Fortunately, there have been no human casualties as a result of the incidents. Youll find a trickle of visitors if you get here before 11 am or after 3 pm, but its busy around lunchtime. Head southeast and drive alongside the rugged windward coast until you reach Punta Sur Ecological Park. Bring a picnic lunch fresh coconuts and beer are sold here and you can combine a visit to the Tulum ruins with an afternoon swinging on the rainbow-colored hammocks, laying out on the dock, and soaking in the knee-deep water.. When you tire of the crowds, take time out in the little-known Laguna de Kaan Luum, a perfectly circular lagoon that sparkles in different shades of blue under the sunlight. Are there crocodiles near Playa del Carmen? Theres no public transport to the Ruta de los Cenotes. There are numerous videos of crocs in casa cenote near tulum The local species is the Morelets crocodile, which is a relatively small breed. We started the morning off early by visiting The Pit, a well-known cenote deep in the jungle known for stunning sunbeams. Non-governmental organizations have documented and studied the number of specimens and behaviour of several crocodile species, proposing handling measures and preventive actions that could lead to fewer encounters and attacks between humans and crocodiles. Crocodiles do not live in Antarctica or the far north of Africa. WebOf course there are crocodiles in the area. The couple hour boat ride to Chinchorro was calmer than expected and to our delight, the crocs were already there when we arrived. While visitors are no longer allowed to swim in the pink lakes, youll still be able to experience a totally unique natural attraction. Crocodiles can be found in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Crocodiles live in different lagoons throughout the state, from Holbox to Seafood restaurants and hotels line the beach, serving fresh but overpriced seafood, ceviche and tacos.. It is the only place in the world where you can find both. The beach by the ferry terminal is sparkling clean yet gloriously empty, which begs the question: where are the tourists?, With its low-key flair and empty beaches, Cozumel is where Playenses (Playa del Carmen locals) go to escape from the hubbub of the mainland. The resident crocodiles here have a 100+ year symbiotic relationship with the local fishermen who clean their daily catch from their overwater huts, discarding fish scraps into the water to be quickly consumed by the crocodiles. As an excellent springboard for the area, Playa del Carmen hosts a medley of day trip adventures: from low-key islands to wild adventure parks. Though hunting and capturing lionfish was the primary objective, we couldn't help but be distracted by the playful sharks all around. Playa del Carmen. males can grow to be about 16 feet long and weigh more than 2,000 pounds. Swim amidst clear-as-glass waters, with stalactites overhead and ancient boulders beneath your feet, while spider monkeys and iguanas roam the lush tropical forest surrounding you.. This enchanting historical site is far less busy than Tulum, making it the perfect place to stop and explore. The ADO bus also runs hourly services from Playa del Carmen to Tulum ruins, with comfortable reclining seats and air conditioning. Re: Saltwater crocodiles. Poke into the Casa de los Venados to admire one of the largest collections of pre-Hispanic artwork in Mexico. You definitely wont be alone at the Tulum ruins, arrive at 9am for the best chance to have the place to yourself. The most recent attack occurred over the weekend in the Bacalar Lagoon. Women saunter around in the traditional embroidered huipil, buying fresh tortillas from street stands and shopping for fruit. ), a large deck from which to watch and gear up, and a kitchen/bedroom occupied by the owner. Several restaurants line the entrance to the beach zone with loungers and decent food, beer and cocktails. The body of a man found surrounded by crocodiles in a lagoon at a Cancn golf course late last week has been identified as a crafts vendor from Playa del Carmen. USMCA panel to open environmental probe of Maya train, Mayan Train construction crew continue to make fascinating archaeological finds, The road to Mridas foodie corridor is a bumpy one, Coyoacn art, cuisine and relaxation in the heart of Mexico City, Palacio de la Msica museum to close 16 days for costly revisions. WebThe American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) is a species of crocodilian found in the There has never been a reported shark attack along the coast of which we are aware. Time your visit to the days when there are no cruises docked here, and youll literally have the island to yourself. Though it was a bit overcast and drizzly when we arrived, the clouds cleared allowing for some beautiful shots. Though crocodiles were never high on my to do list, something about. Our final day of diving began at the popular Cenote Angelita. Playa del Carmen Tourism Playa del Carmen Accommodation Playa del Carmen Bed and Breakfast Playa del Carmen Holiday Rentals All Playa del Carmen Hotels; Playa del Carmen Hotel Deals; Last Minute Hotels in Katie Yonkeris the Director of Operations and a Travel Advisor for Bluewater Travel. Thanks to the seagrass meadows and the protective Mesoamerican Reef, Akumal is the best place to snorkel with turtles in the Riviera Maya. A freshwater crocodile is one of the earliest alligatoroids ever discovered in science. At the beginning of July, a woman was attacked in the Celestn biosphere, a significant tourist attraction where more gentle species are the draw. The body of a man found 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. These parks are one-stop shops complete with zipline circuits, ATV jungle trails, magical cenotes, and restaurants. 310-915-6677 Was thinking of Cozumel, Holbox, Isla mugeres? Whether youre looking for a kid-friendly beach or seeking out the best surf spots, weve got you covered. Let the driver know youre going to Akumal and hell drop you by the highway exit, which is a 15-minute walk to the beach. Theres a toll fee of M$230 (US$11) each way, but the new road cuts down travel time by 20 minutes. A cenote sits right in the middle of the lagoon, its dark indigo waters shimmering in contrast to the shallow aqua patches. It is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. In Chicxulub Puerto last October, a crocodile was found strolling near the main square.The reptile was transferred to remote wetlands. Hatchlings and young Crocodiles are found in tropical and subtropical areas of the world, including parts of Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Siete Bocas is a massive underground cenote with seven openings, where shafts of sunlight beam in and create a dramatic setting. See 2020 trip detailshereand 2021 trip details here . To break up the 5+ hour drive, we planned a stop at the beautiful Muyil ruins. Progreso, Yucatn Destruction of natural cienegas has pushed crocodiles into view along the Yucatecan coast. Try Yucatecan staples at the historic El Mesn del Marqus, a glorious hacienda-style restaurant overlooking the main square. Residents near Sisals wetlandshave been on alert since last year when they reported a three-meter-long crocodile. They are not typically aggressive towards humans, but they can be dangerous if they feel threatened. Though many species of crocodiles are found in brackish water, American Crocodiles have an especially high tolerance for saltwater, allowing them to flourish in the marine protected area of Banco Chinchorro, Mexico. On Cozumel at one beach club, 1 croc occasionally takes a stroll across the beach can go for a swim. The interactive digital museum takes your senses on a journey through the Maya cosmology. Our next stop was Cenote Nichte-ha. The dive on the way out to Chinchorro usually takes place at a site known for friendly nurse sharks which follow you throughout the dive. As humans develop those wetlands, their inhabitants have migrated to new spaces, even in Progreso, Sisal and Celestn, reports the Secretariat of Urban Development and Environment. We were picked up in a comfy van plenty big for the seven of us and all our gear, and began the drive to Xcalak. The journey from Cancun to Punta Allen takes approximately 113 miles (183 kilometers). By private car, Akumal is just 40 minutes from Playa. Punta Allen is a small town located on the southeastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Hundreds of beaches fit this bill: some near-empty with a few palm-thatched, Yearning for sun, sand and eye-popping natural beauty? WebThe presence of crocodiles in the riviera maya region is well known. Related Read: What is the average weight of a crocodile? After an exhilarating time in Xcalak and Chinchorro, we headed back to Playa Del Carmen for a couple days of diving the cenotes. Crocodiles also play a role in the local economy. Crocodiles are a dangerous hazard. End your day trip on a high note with a snorkeling excursion to El Cielo, where you can swim off the worlds second-biggest reef, the Mesoamerican Reef. This area is located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Known for its spectacular formations of stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and crystal-clear water, this cenote blew me away, and is one I would happily dive again and again. However, Punta Allen is also home to a large number of crocodiles. Car is the easiest way to get there, driving south along the 307 highway. The cobblestoned streets of this pueblo magico (magical town) are flanked by pastel-colored colonial buildings, leafy gardens, and vintage Volkswagen Beetles. Riviera Maya has so many spectacular experiences that it can be hard to know where to start. by Romero Esposito | Jan 5, 2023 | Crocodiles. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Though it was a bit overcast and drizzly when we arrived, the clouds cleared allowing for some beautiful shots. This enchanting historical site is far less busy than Tulum, making it the perfect place to stop and explore. Often confused with the saltwater crocodile which inhabits Australia and many places in the Indo Pacific region, the American Crocodile is generally less aggressive towards humans. The body was found near the 18th hole of the golf course, which is located in the citys hotel zone. The only place in the world where you can simply be away from the hustle and bustle is at Punta Allen, which is a hidden gem with a small paradise vibe. This species is found in all of Florida, from the Atlantic to the Gulf of Mexico, and includes the Everglades. Its easy to travel, to get around, and there are so many fun things for people of all ages. As any seasoned diver can attest, we're often looking for new adventures and underwater experiences. The night before leaving for Chinchorro, we received a lengthy briefing on the safety procedures for the croc trip that followed. From Playa del Carmen, take the main highway 307 south for about 30 miles. Plus its central location between Cancn and Tulum means you can visit a string of bucket-list sights in less than an hours drive. A trip to Mexicos Yucatn Peninsula and its crowning resort developments in Cancn and the. Morelets crocodile can be found in freshwater habitats inCentral America and along theGulf of Mexicostretching through Belize, Guatemala, and to Mexico. Related Read: Religion and identity meet in Mexico Citys Iztapalapa, A quick guide to Mexico Citys many Pueblos Mgicos, DEA: 2 Mexican cartels pose greatest criminal threat ever faced by the US, Electrolit: a Mexican solution for surviving the heat. Driving Directions from Playa del Carmen From Playa del Carmen, take the main highway 307 south for about 30 miles. Tours to the eco-adventure parks are plentiful, with transportation from Playa del Carmen included.. Web0:00 / 6:30 Giant Crocodile on a Caribbean Beach near Playa del Carmen, Mexico. One is the Mugger or Marsh Kayaking and boat rides can be arranged at nearby beaches. How much safer do you feel in Mexico City now compared to years ago. Docking into Isla Cozumel, the first thing youll notice are the schools of technicolored fish swimming in the shimmering spearmint water beneath the pier. The hut has one large room with 5 hammocks and two raised mattresses for sleeping, a bathroom with two different toilets (need I say more? Find fish on a snorkeling adventure. All guests must follow strict protocols to ensure guest safety: only 2 guests in the water at a time, one guest on either side of the guide, always follow the verbal instructions of the guide, etc. Does everyone in the area of Tulum have Crocodiles? The Mayan civilization revered the cenotes and made sacrifices here as offerings to the gods. If youre looking for a truly wild and scenic setting, the Nichupte Lagoon is a fantastic choice.