A week to discover the essence of Yucatán

Let’s embark on the adventure of ecotourism in the Yucatán, a route full of treasures and natural and cultural heritage. In this extraordinary state, must-see destinations await you. Rutopía invites you to discover an itinerary highlighting the most emblematic and unique ecotourism sites in the Yucatán.

Refreshing day on Holbox Island

Let’s set off for our first stop: an eco-tour on the relaxing and magnificent island of Holbox. There’s nothing better to start our journey than to admire spectacular turquoise waters, white sand, dreamy sunsets and sunrises, and a fascinating bioluminescence display along the shoreline.

At Rutopía, we recommend kayaking through the mangroves to observe crocodiles, endemic birds, flamingos, an unforgettable experience! Besides this activity, enjoy biking and horseback riding along the sea, as well as snorkeling with whale sharks.

Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve: Ecotourism paradise in the Yucatán

After enjoying a relaxing day in Holbox, we will head to the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. This wetland, where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean Sea, is home to hundreds of pink flamingos each year. You can explore the biosphere by boat and observe the full biodiversity of the reserve, such as mangroves, crocodiles, turtles, birds, and more.

Furthermore, just 30 minutes from the reserve, you’ll find Las Coloradas, fascinating bright pink lagoons, reminiscent of the flamingos’ hue (a color due to its high salt concentration). Walk along one of Mexico’s most colorful lagoons and admire their unique beauty. To see their vivid colors at their best, we recommend visiting between March and August, preferably at noon with no wind.

Zazil Tunich, the largest cenote of the Yucatán and gateway to Xibalbá

After a magical day in the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, our next stop takes us to one of the Yucatán’s main attractions: the Zazil Tunich cenote. This site astonishes with its beauty, size, and antiquity, offering an experience full of history, legends, and Maya mysticism. Diving into Xibalba, the Maya underworld, you will discover with Rutopía the cultural richness of this people inside the largest cenote in the Yucatán.

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Besides its great beauty, this cenote features rock formations over 500,000 years old. To access it, we descend to a depth of 20 meters, where we will find the cenote’s sacred shallow waters.

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We will also participate in a Maya purification ceremony. If you are traveling as a couple, we recommend doing a temazcal followed by a swim in the cenote’s mystical waters.

Valladolid: an escape into colonial Yucatán

Next, we will head to Valladolid, only 120 kilometers from Las Coloradas. This town is a must for those seeking wonder in a magical and colonial city. Among the unmissable activities are visits to historical monuments, the regional museum, the Calzada de Los Frailes, and of course a refreshing swim in the relaxing Cenote Zazil. Don’t forget to delight your palate with the unique flavors of Yucatecan cuisine. At Rutopía, we recommend exploring Valladolid’s charming corners, rich in history and tradition.

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Stroll the streets of Valladolid, where time passes calmly and you can breathe the air of an ancient Maya village.

Unite mind, body, and soul at Chichén Itzá and the Yokdzonot Cenote

Following our itinerary, we will enter Chichén Itzá, one of the 7 Wonders of the World, famous for its grandeur and Maya history. An iconic place for ecotourism in the Yucatán; a delight for history enthusiasts.

Ecotourism with local guides allows us to explore Chichen Itza in a unique way, away from the crowds. A place where the sun’s rays have a special meaning. For example, the first rays of sunshine over the ruins are associated with energy renewal. Likewise, the sunset at the Kukulkan pyramid offers a captivating show of lights, sounds, and colors, steeped in mysticism.

Nearby, you can refresh yourself in the Yokdzonot cenote, renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Swimming there, our mind, body, and soul merge to explore a fascinating underwater world. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to enjoy zip-lining, rappelling, camping, swimming in other nearby cenotes, or tasting traditional meals prepared by community members.

Cenotes were considered sacred by the Mayas and today, some communities continue this tradition.

City of Three Cultures Izamal

The visit continues in the colonial town of Izamal, dazzling in its history and culture. Nicknamed the "Yellow City" or the "City of Three Cultures," Izamal is a true blend of pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern influences. The diversity and culture of Izamal make it the perfect place to enrich your knowledge while enjoying unique experiences. Wander through its cobbled streets, visit the Franciscan Convent of San Antonio de Padua, or the Kinich Kakmó archaeological site.

While visiting Izamal, immerse yourself in its colonial atmosphere, with buildings and homes painted yellow. Also, enjoy the exquisite Yucatecan cuisine, with its traditional dishes rich in flavors and history.

Near Izamal lies Celestún, a true paradise for ecotourism in the Yucatán. This destination is part of the World Heritage of the reserve, officially declared a wildlife refuge since 1979. Explore the natural beauty of Celestún, where you can admire thousands of pink flamingos and disconnect from daily routine.

Vacations and ecotourism in the Yucatán consist of visiting iconic and internationally recognized cultural sites. A trip to this state is to discover a part of Mexico’s heart. With Rutopía, you will experience an extraordinary journey full of life, adventure, knowledge, wellbeing, love, and many other wonders.

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