Exploring Puerto Morelos, Mexico - Vacation Guide
Situated on Mexico’s beautiful Riviera Maya, Puerto Morelos is a port town with endless charm. Located just south of Cancun in the state of Quintana Roo, the town is definitely worth a day-trip. It’s also a great destination in its own right, and is the perfect choice for travelers who want to see a more traditional side of the region.
How to Get to Puerto Morelos
If you’re planning a vacation in Puerto Morelos, it’s likely you’ll be arriving at Cancun International Airport. The town is just 20 minutes’ drive from the airport, making it easily accessible for international visitors. You can take a cab or shuttle bus to the town, or rent a car and drive if you prefer.
What You Need to Visit Puerto Morelos
All international tourists arriving in Quintana Roo have to pay the state tourist tax, known as Visitax. This can be paid in advance of your arrival, through online portals such as MX Visitax Pro.
You’ll also need your passport, with at least six months’ validity. If you aren’t from one of the visa-exempt countries, you’ll also need a tourist visa. Visas are not required if you’re from the US, Canada or the EU.
Get to Know Puerto Morelos
Until recently, the town had a small population and fishing was the primary industry. The town has grown quickly in recent years, and is now home to over 10,000 people. Despite the growth, the town has kept its relaxed Mexican port town atmosphere.
Puerto Morelos is essentially split in two, with a coastal and inland section separated by two kilometers. You can easily travel between both parts of town by bus or taxi, or walk if you prefer! The area separating the two parts of town is home to some fascinating wildlife, so you’ll have the chance to do some bird watching on your walk.
The coastal section is home to numerous hotels and restaurants, and its white, sandy beaches are the perfect place to relax. The inland section of the town, known as La Colonia, has a more traditional Mexican feel. Here you can find rustic restaurants serving local fare, and some charming boutiques and stores.
The Great Mayan Reef
One of Puerto Morelos most famous attractions is the Great Mayan Reef, also known as the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. The reef is the second largest in the world, stretching over 1000km along the coast of Quintana Roo and neighboring states. The reef is home to of over 500 species of fish, 65 species of stony coral, and numerous species of sea turtles, birds and other marine life.
The reef is extremely important to the region, providing coastal protection, a habitat for marine life, and support for the local fishing and tourism industries. The reef also holds great cultural significance for the indigenous Maya people of the region.
The Natural Reef Park of Puerto Morelos is a national park where you can see the reef’s incredible marine life up close. Many local businesses offer tourists the opportunity to either snorkel or scuba dive in the park. Boat tours and catamaran excursions are also popular activities for visitors. You’re sure to be dazzled by the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Jardín Botánico Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín
Jardín Botánico Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín is another famous attraction in Puerto Morelos. When you visit the garden, you’ll get a perfect insight into the region's incredible biodiversity. The botanical garden was established in 1982, and is one of the largest in Mexico, spanning 65 hectares.
Named after the renowned Mexican botanist Alfredo Barrera Marín, the garden is a vital conservation area for native plant species and wildlife.
The garden is organized in a variety of themed sections including medicinal plants, orchids, and traditional Mayan gardens. Get ready to explore the network of trails that leads through the garden’s tropical vegetation. You’ll be able to see some of the region’s wildlife, including birds, iguanas, and even spider monkeys in their natural habitat. A highlight is the suspension bridge, offering stunning views of the surrounding jungle.
Ruta de los Cenotes
La Ruta de los Cenotes (the Cenotes Route) is a great day trip from Puerto Morelos if you’re feeling adventurous. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with clear water throughout the Yucatán peninsula. This route has several cenotes, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. They are easily accessible from Puerto Morelos, making them a convenient option for an exciting day trip.
Highlights include Cenote Zapote and Cenote Kin Ha. Cenote Zapote is known for its distinctive “bell” formations. Be sure to try out the Tarzan swing if you’re seeking a thrill! Cenote Kin Ha provides deep, calm waters that are great for diving and snorkeling, set amidst the jungle.
Conclusion
Puerto Morelos is the perfect destination for those who want to escape the resorts of Cancun and experience a more traditional side of Mexico. It has something for everyone, from relaxing beaches to adventurous excursions to the reef and cenotes. Don’t hesitate to visit this beautiful town and experience everything it offers!
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