How to Snorkel at Grand Xcaret

Xcaret is Maya civilization archaeological site located on the Caribbean coastline of the Yucatán Peninsula, about 55 minutes drive from the resort of Cancun. An ecological park sits on the site and offers a wide range of attractions for visitors to Cancun and Riviera Maya, including a big focus on marine life. Snorkeling is a popular activity at Grand Xcaret and does not have any health requirements before starting, in contrast to diving.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask hotel staff or visit dive shops about the best places to snorkel. Choose where you would like to do your snorkeling. The snorkeling sites at Xcaret include a long subterranean river containing marine life that can be viewed in the crystal-clear waters, the lagoon or the aquarium, which contains a real coral reef. If you want a bigger experience, snorkel tours in the ocean can be arranged on the local Barracuda Reef.

    • 2

      Get fitted for your snorkeling gear. If you do not have your own, it is possible to rent snorkeling gear from resorts. You need a mask, snorkel and full-foot fins. If you are not a strong swimmer, you also need a life vest.

    • 3

      Get in the water and view the underwater world. Marine life around Xcaret includes many different species of coral, marine turtles from juveniles to 100-year-old giants, In the ocean, out on the reef, you encounter reef sharks, clown fish, moorish idols and other common marine life. Get a guide for diving certain areas to ensure that you get the maximum benefit of your snorkeling excursion.

    • 4

      Take photographs of your experience. Underwater housings for your digital camera are relatively inexpensive, and the clear visibility in the water around Xcaret allows for fantastic photographs. Buy an underwater disposable camera. The depth limitations on the camera are not important because you will be snorkeling on the surface.