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Puerto Morelos, a charming beach town just about a 40-minute drive from Cancun, is quickly emerging as one of the Riviera Maya’s top community tourism hotspots.
So, what is community tourism all about?
This travel trend aims to go beyond the typical beach-pool-party experience (not that there’s anything wrong with it). Instead, community tourism is about connecting travelers with the history, culture, traditions, and natural wonders of the destination.
In each of these aspects, Puerto Morelos truly shines, offering visitors an exciting and authentic experience.
Furthermore, community tourism seeks to benefit local communities, fostering economic development, sustainability, and the preservation of their cultural heritage.
With the upcoming Maya train, the community tourism sector at Puerto Morelos is expected to skyrocket. The nearby Leona Vicario station will allow travelers to easily access this charming town and explore its alluring cultural and natural attractions.
So, if you want to find out more about Puerto Morelos’ rising community tourism scene and what is drawing travelers to this fascinating destination, read on!
Stunning Natural Wonders & Thrilling Activities
Puerto Morelos boasts a wide array of captivating natural attractions. Just a short distance from the shoreline, the world’s second-largest reef barrier awaits, teeming with abundant marine life.
There are several snorkeling tours available, which usually include food, drinks, and snorkeling gear.
Dive in and discover the underwater wonders this stunning reef has to offer. Tropical fish, sea turtles, cuttlefish, and even elusive lobsters are just some of the many fascinating sea creatures that inhabit the colorful coral formations.
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For diving aficionados, the breathtaking Juan Escutia wreck is an absolute must-visit.
With a coastline of more than 18 kilometers of pristine beaches, at Puerto Morelos you can expect much fewer crowds compared to other destinations in the region, a quieter atmosphere, and ample space to set up your picnic and enjoy the sun.
Puerto Morelos is also home to more than 60 cenotes nestled in the lush jungle that surrounds the town. In fact, Puerto Morelos has its own ‘Cenote Route’, which is becoming one of the fastest-growing ecotourism destinations in Quintana Roo.
These stunning natural sinkholes are the perfect place to take a refreshing dip amidst awe-inspiring natural surroundings.
At cenotes such as Kin Ha or Cenote Boca de Puma, travelers can partake in exhilarating activities such as zip-lining, ATVs, snorkeling, kayaking, and even horseback riding.
Rich History & Vibrant Local Culture
While Puerto Morelos is often overshadowed by its bustling neighbors – namely Cancun and Playa del Carmen, the town’s fascinating history predates the birth of these two popular destinations.
The area is filled with Mayan archeological sites featuring awe-inspiring structures such as “El Altar” or the Muchil Pyramid, which stand as enduring testaments to the region’s importance during the flourishing of this enigmatic civilization.
Puerto Morelos also proudly boasts the title of the oldest port in Quintana Roo. In the late 19th century, the town emerged as the state’s most significant commercial port, exporting products such as vanilla, tobacco, rubber, and dyewood.
During the 1970s, the town experienced a sharp economic and demographic boom, attracting both local and foreign visitors. This fusion endowed the town with its present-day cosmopolitan ambiance, all while preserving its authentic fishing village charm.
At the heart of Puerto Morelos lies the vibrant Javier Rojo Gómez Plaza, featuring small stores, a picturesque church, restaurants, cafés, and the bustling artisanal market Hunab-Ku.
Here, you can enjoy a tasty meal with impressive seaside views. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a refreshing Pescadores beer, the town’s very own craft brew.
Next, head to the magnificent Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín botanical garden, which showcases an impressive collection of local medicinal plants and adorable creatures such as spider monkeys and coatis.
Learn about the rubber extraction process (an integral part of the town’s history), delve into sacred ancient Mayan beekeeping traditions, and wander through the reconstruction of an authentic Mayan village.
Finally, Puerto Morelos hosts a variety of exciting events. From open sea fishing tournaments to music and theater festivals at La Casa de La Cultura – there’s always something going on in this fascinating town.
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