Photo by melodramababs

The Riviera Maya region of the Yucatan Peninsula is known for its pristine beaches, fabulous resorts and a plethora of water sports and diving experiences. There is also a rich ecological landscape to be explored around Akumal and Playa de Carmen in the protected jungles of the region. In these jungles, the government has taken steps to preserve the land from development and maintain the integrity of the natural habitats of many species. From toucans to monkeys, you can see them all in their natural surroundings by arranging a jungle tour while you are staying in the area.

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Preserve is 1.3 million acres set aside by the Mexican government as an internationally protected natural habitat. In this jungle you will find mangrove swamps, savannahs, tropical forests, coastal lagoons and thousands of species of birds, fish, monkeys and other animals.

You can arrange a tour of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Preserve with one of the many providers in the area. The best way to see this area is by boat, and private guided tours are available with native tour guides. A boat tour will cross two lakes which are connected to the sea by ancient Mayan canals that were once an integral part of the trade routes for this ancient civilization. As you cruise along the guided boat tour, you will marvel at the beautiful flora and fauna such as orchids and other tropical plant life. You will also have the chance to explore many Mayan ruins located within the preserve. One fun part of the excursion is when you put on a life jacket and float down the canal. The beauty of these tours is that the proceeds go to help preserving this natural wonder. A day spent at the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Preserve is educational and fun and you will experience first hand one of the last undeveloped coastal areas in North America.

There are several other wildlife reserves in the region. There is the Xaman-Ha bird sanctuary in Playacar, just 20 minutes north of Akumal. This bird sanctuary is one of the natural wonders of Mexico and is host to hundreds of species of tropical birds. Another place to get the jungle experience is Jungle Place in Chemuyil. It is located 10 minutes from Akumal and is host to toucans and monkeys that you can interact with. It is inland and there is even lodging available if you want to spend some time in the jungle. They have monkeys in a cage where you can go in and pet them and interact with them and see how they live. This is a unique chance to safely interact with wildlife and learn about their natural habitat and even spend a few days in the jungle to get the full experience. The Riviera Maya region offers many jungle habitats and natural preserves for tourists to truly enjoy one of the last unspoiled, undeveloped jungle and coastline regions in Mexico. To find jungle accommodations and more information on lodging, visit HotelsCombined.com.

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A Candid Review of Akumal’s Eateries

We take a look at all the places to eat in the town of Akumal, Mexico.  All are owned by locals who also operate them.  These are just our opinions… other people’s opinions may vary!

Lol-Ha Resturant in Akumal

Lol-Ha on Akumal Bay Our favorite!  The Beach Bar has a large palapa style outside dining area surrounded by palms with a great ocean view and cool ocean breeze. The menu offers a wide selection of well prepared foods. For more elegant dining, the main dining area offers a beautiful indoor dining room and a full menu. Their breakfast is a delight. The staff are friendly and helpful.  Friday Happy Hour is a Local’s Favorite.  The Lol-Ha Pizzeria offers freshly baked pizzas.  Located on the right just inside the arch in central Akumal.

La Buena Vida, “The Good Life”  This restaurant has a gorgeous view of Half Moon Bay. The shrimp tacos are wonderful!  The beach bar has swings instead of bar stools.  A fun “night life” place that rocks from Happy Hour to closing everyday.  Wednesday is karaoke night.  Dining on the beach or upstairs in the dining room.  They have a gift shop across the street with some fun stuff for sale.  It’s located on the beach road in the north of Akumal.

Cueva de Pescador, “The Cave of the Fisherman”–Freshest fish in Akumal!  Pescador is a seafood restaurant offering local fresh seafood caught by their own boats daily.  Grouper, Red Snapper, Boquinete (a local favorite), Atun (Tuna) and Dorado (Mahi Mahi) are usually available depending on the season.It is owned by Carlos Danú, a professional fisherman in Akumal since 1982, who for a fee will take you fishing and cook your catch for dinner!  We have fished with Carlos several times.  Always fun and inexpensive compared to the States.  Book fishing trips at the resturant.  Located on the left in the center of Akumal.

Turtle Bay Bakery & Cafe. They bake their own breads, cakes, cookies and pastries daily. Come early for the best selection.  Their breakfast is a treat. Open for breakfast andlunch.  Dinner in the high season.  Located in the center of Akumal behind Cueva de Pescador.

La Lunita, an intimate beach cafe serves contemporary style Mexican cuisine. Indoor or beach seating.  La Lunita is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner during the winter. Dinner only summer and fall.  It’s located in Hacienda Las Tortugas condos on Half Moon Bay in north Akumal.

Que Onda! specializes in Italian cuisine and is personally attended by owners.. Enjoy fresh pastas made daily in house and a nice selection of Italian wines. Enjoy dining in a beautiful garden setting and with an illuminated pool. Que Onda is located in a tropical garden setting at the north end of Akumal near Yal-ku Lagoon.

Loncheria Akumalito is a small breakfast/lunch bar located next to Super Chomak Grocery.  It is inexpensive with simple, delicious meals.

Lucy’s Kitchen Shrimp Tacos and handmade gormet ice cream.  Located by the basketball courts on the left before you go through the arch.

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