Last year while in Mexico, our property manager Gladys along with her husband Samuel (who are also our friends), treated us to an all-inclusive full day at Xel-ha (sometimes pronounced “chel-ha” or the Spanish “ʃel’ha”).
What an amazing time; it was like being at a resort for a day, food and drinks included.
Xel-ha is located in the Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico, and since 1995 has been a big tourist attraction for families. The ancient Mayas named this site Xel-ha which in their language means “where the water is born.”
According to ancient legend, the Mayan Gods wanted to join their wisdom, illusions and love for beauty and nature in one place. The Gods were so pleased with this place that they allowed entry to all humans and appointed three guardians – Huh, the Iguana who was Guardian of the Land; Chuc Kay, the Pelican who was Guardian of the Air; and Kay Op, the Parrotfish who was the Guardian of the Water – to protect and care for the park and all who visit.
Today, it is believed that these guardians still protect and care for all the visitors who come to the Park.
At Xel-ha, there are water activities, ecological attractions including jungle trails and lots of flora and fauna, 4 restaurants where you can taste traditional Mexican dishes and enjoy a cocktail, beautiful parrots and even hammocks to relax in or to take a break from roaming around the area. If you are into zip-lining and snorkelling, you won’t be disappointed.
We really loved floating in the water on the big inner tubes, just laying back and relaxing. I am not a swimmer but with my life jacket on, I felt quite safe and secure.
In the Park
The Beautiful Macaws
One of the Pathways
Stone that Predicts the Weather
Hubby and I Clowning Around
My husband and our Friend Samuel Loved this Waterslide!
Our View Just Before Leaving
Facilities and Amenities
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Unlimited snorkelling
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Wheelchair rentals (extra cost)
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4 Restaurants (breakfast served from 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.) as well as lunch and snacks
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Bars – Domestic open bar and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages
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Free Wifi
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Water equipment
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Inner tubes for floating down the river; life jackets
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Scenic lighthouse – 131 feet (40 m) high
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Lockers, restrooms and showers in several locations
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Shops in several locations including souvenirs and pharmaceutical products; ATM
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Photo opportunity (additional cost)
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Hammocks where you can relax and enjoy your drink
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Zip Lining
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Hikes on the different jungle paths; bicycles
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Cenotes and coves
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The Meliponary* (Melipona Bee – the Mayan’s Sacred Bee) and Nursery
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Children’s playground with special activities
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Free Parking
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The Meliponary (Melipona Bee – the Mayan’s Sacred Bee) and Nursery