Touring around the Yucatan

The Yucatan region lies between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea and occupies a large section of the southeastern Mexican landscape. There are many adventures to be found in this part of the world and Chichen Itza is worth the trek. People travel from all over the world to see this archeological site with stone temples and a massive pyramid. Clap your hands to hear resounding birdlike noises bounce off the environment. Learn about the history of Mayan ceremonies and traditional ball games found in the ruins.

After a hot day in the sun, head to Cenote Tsukan to cool off in the water just 10 minutes away from Chichen Itza. Cenotes are natural sinkholes and caverns found in the Yucatan region.

Before entering Tsukan Santuario de Vida, hug a Pich tree, make a tortilla by hand and mix together spices with some assistance from locals in a maze leading to the cave.

The water is so deep that life jackets are necessary, but it's a rare opportunity to swim amongst fish in a peaceful cave.

The restaurant on the private property serves up delicious conchinita pibil and sopa de lima for hungry swimmers once on dry land.

For a completely different cenote experience drive over to Hacienda Y Cenote Mucuyche. Showers are required to rinse off before swimming in either the on-property pool or the cenote. Doggie paddle under natural waterfalls and scout around the stalactites that grow inside the underground cavern. Unwind with lunch at the restaurant after exiting the grotto.

For another watery expedition try Rio Lagartos Adventures ecotours to possibly spot wildlife while out on a boat in a biosphere reserve. Flamingo Lovers Tour is a three-hour tour that won't leave you stranded like Gilligan's Island. The guides provide plenty of information and assistance. Take a mud bath to open the pores and dry out while meeting crocodiles up close and personal in their natural habitat.

Ready for a road trip? Las Coloradas is out of the way, but worth visiting because of its uniqueness and charm. Natural salt flats have taken over this part of the Yucatan with a pink hue and visitors enjoy all the photographic opportunities along the way.

Looking for art and history from the 16th century? Move on to Merida, Yucatan's capital and largest city on the peninsula. Take a downtown walking tour with MeridaGayTours.com that's hosted by owner Ricardo Contreras. He can accommodate and tailor a trip to suit a group's needs when contacted including LGBTQ+-centered nightlife and stores. Ask Ricardo for information on Uxmal, an archaeological site in good condition that is worth exploring with a knowledgeable guide. There's even a Nunnery Quadrangle that resembles a convent, so tell everyone a Nunn sent you!

Stay tuned for the upcoming Tren Maya that will make Yucatan expeditions easier for tourists. Plans are for the railway construction to be completed by December 1, 2023.