Across the globe, the Riviera Maya and Caribbean are considered some of the most incredible places for beach getaways. Though not wrong, it is often forgotten all of the incredible natural flora, fauna, and culture that makes the Riviera Maya so unique over other vacation hotspots like Punta Laguna.
Situated just a short drive from Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Punta Laguna is a natural reserve that offers something for every type and age of traveler. Punta Laguna gets its name from its location at the end of a beautiful Lagoon tucked away in the jungle, away from the crowds and all-inclusive hotels.
But there is something that makes Punta Laguna so unique, and it isn’t just the adventures you can embark on.
Punta Laguna is looked after by native Mayan Communities of the the area. No more than a few hundred Mayans populate the area, but they welcome tourists from around the world, showing them the magic of Punta Laguna while teaching them about their culture and ensuring that the area stays protected.
A Day in the Jungle
It’s time to take a journey on what a day in Punta Laguna will be like, whether it is a half-day or full-day tour with a local guide; we guarantee that you are going to be blown away by all of the different things you can do and the jaw-dropping things you will see!
Sandos Expert Tip: Start your tour in the morning so that you can get the most out of Punta Laguna.
Zip Lines
We believe that a part of your trip to Punta Laguna needs to have a little bit of thrill. There is no better way to do that than feeling like you are flying through the air.
Put yourself in the perspective of a monkey high in the trees and soar through the air, overtop of the laguna, waving down to everything below!
Kayaking
If you have been kayaking before, this activity in Punta Laguna is unlike anything you have experienced. Paddle through the water while fish, turtles, and even small alligators swim underneath. Don’t worry; as long as you respect their natural habitat, you are going to have so much fun.
A local guide will take you on the water and show you all of the different wonders that make this area one of the best locations for excursions in the Riviera Maya. Have you ever been kayaking? If not, this excursion is perfect for those with any level of experience. If there is one place to learn this fun sport, it is Punta Laguna.
Archaeological Sites
As we mentioned above, the Punta Laguna Nature Reserve is tended to by Mayan Communities around the area. But did you know that the Riviera Maya used to be home to the Mayan Empire? And one of the greatest gifts left behind was wondrous, incredible, and breathtaking Mayan Ruins.
The Mayan Ruins are symbols of the great cities that once ruled the area. Luckily a day at Punta Laguna can also mean some time spent exploring one of the greatest Mayan cities in Quintana Roo: The Coba Ruins. Here, a pyramid that you can climb isn’t the only thing that makes Coba stand out. It’s also the endless options for swimming in cenotes available, perfect for getting out of the sun for a bit.
Go For a Swim
Continue your adventure as your tour guide takes you to the “underworld” in a natural cenote 12 meters below the surface. This swim is like no other! Snorkel through crystal clear water, and if you are experienced, you can even explore the caves underneath the water scuba diving. All of the equipment you need is waiting for you, all you need is your swimsuit!
Trade Adventure for Exploration
We strongly recommend doing all of the activities that we mentioned above in the morning and early afternoon so that you can truly enjoy the furry creatures that are guaranteed to put on a little bit of a show for you. Early in the morning, spider and howler monkeys leave their homes to go in search of food. That is why later in the afternoon is the ideal time to visit them!
These two types of monkeys are extremely different. Spider monkeys are distinguished by their slim build and long tails. Howler monkeys are distinguished by their, you probably can guess it by their name, howl! So, after a day of soaring through the sky on zip lines, exploring archeological zones, and taking a dip in crystal-clear cenotes, finish the day observing these peaceful creatures in their natural habitat, enjoying the company of travelers from around the world! All you need is some biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent, comfortable shoes, a hat, binoculars, and you are ready to go!
Accommodations
Sandos Hotels & Resorts has 3 hotels in the Riviera Maya. Just a short drive away from Punta Laguna: Sandos Cancun, 2 hours by car. Sandos Playacar & Sandos Caracol Eco Resort, 1 and a half hours by car.
Sandos Playacar
Are you looking for a true beach getaway to combine perfectly with your natural retreat to Punta Laguna? Then Sandos Playacar is where you need to call home during your vacation. Enjoy the endless white sand beach, turquoise blue waters, and All Playa Experience. A program that consists of daily activities on the beach, internationally-inspired cuisine, and jaw-dropping nightly performances.
Sandos Caracol
Keep your retreat natural at all points throughout your vacation with Sandos Caracol Eco Resort. Situated within the jungle, Sandos Caracol Eco Resort is home to crystal clear cenotes, wildlife, and nature activities part of the All Nature Experience. This all inclusive resort is ideal for all ages of travelers, with a huge waterpark, kids club, adults-only section, exclusive spa, and so much more.
Sandos Cancun
Indulge in a true Caribbean vacation at Sandos Cancun. Focus on your well-being with the Wellfit Experience, an exclusive program consisting of wellness activities, healthy and vegan food options, a high-class spa, and a fully-equipped fitness center. Relax in one of the 3 infinity pools or on the beach during the day, and say hello to the excitement in the evening through smooth musical performances and lounge jams at Bar One.
Support The Mayan community.
During your visit to Punta Laguna, you are contributing to preserving the natural treasures of the area while helping continue the story and legacy of the Mayan Community. So during your visit, make sure to:
- Hire a local tour guide
- Visit and talk with the local people, learn their stories.
- Purchase local food and try their special dishes
- Buy some of their crafts. Everything is made from scratch using local resources. Some of it includes woodwork, clothing, and jewelry.
