Part 3 – Xcaret Adventure Park Has It All!
In the first two articles of this series we covered the attractions found on park grounds, including underground rivers, the incredible Rotating Scenic Tower and the House of Whispers. Also discussed were all the cultural exhibits available for visitors to experience, beginning with the many Mayan ruins, St. Francis of Assisi Chapel, the Mexican cemetery and the Mexico Wine Cellar. Now we will take a look at the astounding natural attractions that are the core of this incredible eco-park.
Mexico itself, no matter where you are, has so many natural attractions. The Yucatan Peninsula though is unique in that it houses its own set of unusual ecosystems. The most colorful is probably the coral reefs. The Xcarat Adventure Park has taken the opportunity to educate their visitors through the creation of a Coral Reef Aquarium. This attraction is like nothing else in the world, as it features over 500 naturally grown corals and more than 5000 living organisms. No other aquarium in the world has been able to exhibit long term coral samples in such an environment as the ecosystems are so fragile. The tropical fish, sturgeon,crabs, lobster, nursery sharks, sea horses, and sting rays are abound in the aquarium, providing a breathtaking experience for all ages.
For the lover of floral sights and scents, visit the Xcaret Orchids Greenhouse and Mushroom Farm. Mayan orchids are some of the most rare and beautiful species of orchid, and here they are at their most magnificent. Of the 105 varieties of orchid, 89 are endemic to Mexico, and all are represented here. Not far from the greenhouse is the Mushroom Farm, a facility designed to showcase and educate the mushroom growing process – and its simplicity. Visitors can learn about the whole process of growth, the importance of the crop to local communities and sample some of the most nutritious varieties.
Conservation is one of the main drives behind the creation of the Xcaret Adventure Park, and for one particular species it is very important: the Caribbean Manatee. In Manatee Lagoon visitors will be able to visit the resident manatees Pompon and Nohoch. Other species sought to be protected by the Xcaret staff are the jaguars and pumas. On Jaguar Island are a few residents of these species, and can be viewed by visitors – but at a safe distance! The Yucatan Peninsula is home to many endemic species, however the monkey populations are probably the most fun to watch! Spider Monkey island in Xcaret Adventure Park is a great place to watch acrobatic antics of the Spider Monkey. The Howler Monkey also live here, and is easily located by its loud roar.
Aside from the designated areas of Xcaret Adventure Park, where visitors can find various forms of plant, animal, bird and marine life, there are a multitude of roaming creatures to look for. None are dangerous of course, but they sure are interesting. For example the tapir named Poloc wanders the grounds munching grass and searching for his partner, Lolha. Not far from the lagoon is a very interesting bat cave. Home to hundreds of bats, it is a spooky place but lots of fun to discover. The peninsula has always had a healthy population of deer and pheasant, so don’t be surprised if you see a few wandering around.
Xcaret Adventure Park is a pretty incredible place. It truly has something for everyone! Nature, culture, history, adventure, shopping – it is all in one area accessible to all. Any visitor will be able to tell you it is not your typical theme park, in fact it isn’t a theme park at all. It is an attraction designed around the natural environment for the purpose of conservation and education. There is nothing quite like it anywhere else in Mexico. Families of all ages will find something to excite them at Xcaret – guaranteed!
BookIt is an online travel company determined and dedicated to becoming the leader in providing travelers with the most intuitive online booking experience full of relevant information, helpful guides and travel tips. Find great deals on grand palladium kantenah at BookIt!
