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Mexico is known throughout the world as a biodiverse haven: filled with tropical jungles, lush mangroves and endless coral reefs, the amount of nature to explore is simply endless.
With this being said, it comes as no surprise that there are thousands of attractions for animal lovers scattered throughout the entirety of the country, from snorkelling with sharks and whales to seeing one of the rarest mammals on earth. However, the state of Quintana Roo is particularly rich in animal attractions, with Trip Advisor reviewers finding 3 of the most popular attractions for animal lovers in Mexico in this particular state.
Whether you’re travelling with little ones, or you’re simply a kid at heart, these three animal attractions in Quintana Roo will be sure to make your summer vacation a memorable one.
Akumal Monkey Sanctuary & Rescued Animals
This sanctuary is a treat for both younger and older animal lovers: located in Akumal, the sanctuary is home to a variety of rescued primates, including the endangered spider monkey, Madagascan lemurs, and even stunning capuchin.
The sanctuary’s purpose is to rehabilitate animals in need and eventually release them back into the wild when they regain their strength. The sanctuary has worked to rescue over 200 animals from 55 different species, partially funded by tourists who have bought tickets to the sanctuary.
Various tour packages are available at the sanctuary for guests, including a 2-hour monkey tour and a visit to a nearby cenote.
Address: Road to Uxuxubi S/N Predio Santa Pilar Lote 16, 77776 Akumal, QR, Mexico
Opening Hours: 9 am-5 pm, Monday – Sunday.
Admission Price: $45 for children ages 5-11, $65 for visitors who are 12+. (Children under 4 are free).
Mayan Bee Sanctuary
If you’re looking for a quick add-on to your summer vacation in Cancun or Playa del Carmen, look no further than the Mayan Bee Sanctuary. This wallet-friendly 1-hour tour is perfect for a rainy day away from the beach, where bilingual guides explain the importance of Melipona Bees in Mayan culture.
Guests are invited to interact with the stingless bees in their natural habitat, surrounded by lush vegetation and even a small cenote. The programme also allows guests to view a Mayan purification ritual, with a small honey tasting available at the end of the tour.
There are also small archaeological artefacts scattered around the sanctuary, as well as a gift shop and artist workshop. Why not take home some Mayan honey for friends and family to enjoy?
Address: Carr Transversal km 10, 77600 Q.R., México
Opening Hours: 9 am-3 pm, Monday-Saturday.
Admission Price: $8 per adult, $6 for Children
Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve
Its no wonder that this stunning nature reserve on the coast of Quintana Roo was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO: as the largest protected area in the Mexican-Caribbean, this colourful area is packed with some of the rarest animals in the world.
The area is home to over 100 species of mammals, 90 species of native birds, and over 500 species of tropical fish. After spending time floating along the tropical mangroves, visitors have the chance to explore the lush jungle, home of several howler and spider monkeys as well as jaguars, pumas and ocelots.
Whilst pricy, tourists who have visited Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve have said it is worth the price for a truly unforgettable experience. The nature reserve is accessible by boat tours, with some offering snorkelling and diving add-ons.
Address: Felipe Carrillo Puerto, QR, Mexico
Opening Hours: As a national park, the reserve is technically open 24 hours (but tour operators tend to visit between 9am-6pm).
Admission Price: Tours can range from $100 per person to $300 for added excursions.
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