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It is no secret that sargassum has been one of the biggest issues concerning the travel and tourism sector of the Mexican Caribbean.
Following the previous year’s records, many of the beautiful, golden coastlines have been bracing themselves for another year of full coverage. However, one beachfront town has had a pleasant surprise.
Mahahual, located on the southeastern tip of Quintana Roo, has recorded an absence of sargassum on its beaches, making it the perfect stop for tourists this summer.
This tiny fishing village, which is part of Grand Costa Maya, is less than two hours away from Chetumal and is best known for its incredible diving experiences in the largest coral atoll in Mexico.
Sargassum-free Mahahual
Rodolfo Espada Ixte, vice president of the Association of Tourism Entrepreneurs of the Great Costa Maya was thrilled to announce the decrease in sargassum, stating that the absence of seaweed will generate an environment conducive to tourism and hopefully bring an increase to the sector.
He stated, “It’s been a long time since we had a summer in which we didn’t have to face the [sargassum], we have clean beaches, and we hope they will stay that way.”
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Hoteliers in the area are predicting a hotel occupancy of 80% this year, an increase of 3% from the same period of the previous year.
Even though the coastline is expected to welcome only 30 cruises, hotel occupancy in the area is expected to increase as the month progresses.
With tourists looking to escape the increasingly high temperatures of the country, many travel to Mahahual for the sun and beach destinations, so an absence of seaweed will be a welcome advantage to the area this year.
While areas grapple with the macroalgae by using heavy-duty machinery and employing an extensive network of cleaners, even including the Mexican Navy, Mahahual is set to be one of few places not having to employ such extreme measures.
Will Tourism Be On The Rise Again In Mahahual?
In previous years, Mahahual had been experiencing less tourism in the area, with sargassum not being the only issue in relation to the decrease.
Espada Ixte recognized that issues of backpacking tourism had been a factor, though commented that local tourism and backpackers were able to find their own spaces within Mahahual and stated there was room for all types of travelers.
There have also been issues amongst taxi drivers providing services to tourists from the cruise port to restaurants on the pier.
Espada Ixte stated that he hoped they would be able to find an economic balance that benefits those in the Mahahual tourism industry, as well as the well-being of the families that depend on these services.
Now with a sargassum-free shoreline and a plethora of different offerings on its doorstep, Mahahual seems like the perfect destination for travelers of all kinds.
What Do You Need To Know About Mahahual?
The Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve has claimed the title of one of the best places for diving in the Mexican Caribbean.
With the area being the world’s second-largest barrier reef, it is a haven for snorkelers and divers alike looking to see beautiful coral walls and marine life such as turtles, nurse sharks and rays, as well more than 60 sunken ships dating back to the 16th and 17th century.
The turquoise-colored waters are perfect for swimming or kayaking, with the pier and waterfront promenade offering beach clubs, coffee shops, and restaurants.
The Grand Costa Maya is also considered a gateway to the many archaeological sites in the area for those wanting an alternative to the golden beaches and clear blue waters, including Chacchobén, Kohunlich, and Kinichná.
Though the summer months are slower in this part of Quintana Roo, it remains one of the most popular and sought-after areas for tourists.
For tourists looking to escape the intense heat of Playa Del Carmen or Tulum and who want to experience a different taste of the Mexican Caribbean, Mahahual should be high up on your list, especially as it will be sargassum free!
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