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Banco Chinchorro

Costa Maya

Copyright: Walter Torres/Pexels
DESTINATIONS mexico costamaya Do & See Banco Chinchorro

Banco Chinchorro

Not only does Costa Maya have excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling, it also boasts a true rarity: Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve is a coral reef located around 18 miles off the coast of Mahahual. As part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second largest coral reef system in the world, it is home to a diverse array of marine life as well as dozens of sunken ships, some of which date back to the 16th century. Those interested can find a multitude of dive centers along Mahahual's boardwalk, Malecón.

Useful Information

Do & See

Costa Maya is an up and coming tourist region that has something to offer to all age groups. Lesser-known Maya ruins such as Chacchoben and Kohunlich are sure to amaze with their amazing history and architecture, and natural wonders like Banco Chinchorro are a bucket list item for all sea lovers. If it's some quiet time by the beach you are after, the Malecón (boardwalk) in Mahahual will likely cater to all your needs.

Maya Ruins of Chacchoben Copyright: Ruben Hanssen/Unsplash
Maya Ruins of Chacchoben
A favorite daytrip destination from Costa Maya, the Chacchoben Maya ruins are located nearby a city of the same name only 50 minutes away from the cruise port. This fascinating landmark is estimated to have been inhabited since as early as 1000 BC, and after a fairly late discovery in the 1940s, it still …
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Costa Maya Cruise Port Copyright: Alena Darmel/Pexels
Costa Maya Cruise Port
The cruise center is a sight in itself that allows you to experience many aspects of Mexican culture even if you don’t have time to visit any other location. Aside from restaurants, shops and bars with traditional Mexican fare and products, there is also a saltwater swimming pool, Maya spa, aviary park, tequila museum, …
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Malecón Copyright: Juan Ortega/cc by 3.0/wikimedia (cropped)
Malecón
A simple yet effective way to see the best of Mahahual is to take a stroll along this 1.2-mile long boardwalk. Connecting a multitude of restaurants, beach clubs, hotels, vendors and the town’s picturesque lighthouse in the north, El Malecón is no less than Mahahual’s main …
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Banco Chinchorro Copyright: Walter Torres/Pexels
Banco Chinchorro
Not only does Costa Maya have excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling, it also boasts a true rarity: Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve is a coral reef located around 18 miles off the coast of Mahahual. As part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second largest coral reef system in the world, it is home to …
Read more
Dolphin Discovery Copyright: Ranae Smith/Unsplash
Dolphin Discovery
A popular choice for kids and grown-ups alike, Dolphin Discovery offers a range of programs for up-close encounters with marine animals. Dolphin activities are made unforgettable with belly rides, handshakes and hugs. Visitors can also swim with (and learn about) manatees and sea …
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Kohunlich Copyright: bvi4092/CC by 2.0/Flickr
Kohunlich
Under the shelter of lush rainforest, the archeological site of Kohunlich is an outstanding example of Maya architecture. Palaces, citadels, temples (such as the top attraction Temple of the Masks) and other elaborate structures are scattered over an area of more than 20 acres, with most landmarks dating back to as early as 250 …
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Xcalak National Reef Park Copyright: Dr. Matthias Ripp/CC by 2.0/Flickr (cropped)
Xcalak National Reef Park
Located 15 miles south of Mahahual, Xcalak is a secluded stretch of Costa Maya with stunning marine life in the Xcalak National Reef Park, extending over 25 miles as part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Activities are plentiful and include fly fishing, scuba diving, SUP, kayaking and more. Without the hustle of nearby popular …
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Lake Bacalar Copyright: Camila Vázquez/unsplash
Lake Bacalar
With a length of 30 miles, Lake Bacalar (or Laguna Bacalar) is the largest lake of the Yucatán peninsula. Also called lake of seven colors, it is a spectacular landmark for its clear azure water, fed by groundwater emerging from "cenotes," or natural sinkholes. The landmark is within a 60-mile distance from Mahahual. There …
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