The Costa Maya port in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico is one of the most exciting ports of call in the Caribbean. Usually, passengers only have one day to spend, but there are still many things you can do to enjoy Costa Maya. Here are five attractions in Costa Maya:
1. Explore the ancient Mayan Ruins
The ancient Mayan ruins are a must, especially if you are a history buff. The most popular is the Chacchoben Ruins, about 69 miles from the cruise port. The ruins date back to around 2,000 BC, and it’s one of the largest preserved archaeological sites in Central America. Another one to check out is the Limones Mayan Ruins along Highway 307. It’s a single pyramid and easy to miss if you don’t keep an eye on it.
2. Join a local village tour
If you want to get a first-hand experience of the culture and heritage in Costa Maya, join a village tour. The tour guides are local historians who will share insights into the village’s everyday life and give glimpses of how their ancestors lived. You get to see actual wooden huts with outdoor kitchens and watch demonstrations of how people made their ropes from trees in the past. The Limones village tour also allows you to sample an authentic Mexican chicken cuisine cooked underground over hot coals for five hours.
3. Swim with dolphins
Costa Maya is a world-famous dive destination, but did you know that you can swim with the dolphins? Spend the day swimming with these playful, intelligent creatures in Plaza del Carmen, but don’t forget to follow the guidelines of the Costa Maya Dolphin Conservation Area. Take advantage of Costa Maya’s crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches, even for a day.
4. Shop for souvenirs in the local markets
Find unique treasures and souvenirs from traditional to modern items from the local markets in Costa Maya. You can find handmade jewelry, traditional art, clothing, authentic Mexican hats, colorful scarves, local produce, and more.
5. Relax and enjoy the day at the cruise terminal.
You can spend a lazy day at the Costa Maya cruise port. Explore the numerous shops and stalls offering merchandise of all kinds. Get a relaxing massage. Enjoy the salty ocean breeze. Check out the delicious food options available, and you can take your pick. All booths are right next door to each other. Enjoy your favorite drink from any of the bars. Even if you get tipsy, the ship is just a few hundred steps from where you are.
Quick Tips
A day is not enough to enjoy the charms of Costa Maya, but you can return for a longer vacation. Here’s a quick tip- learn or brush up on your Spanish language skills. Although English is used in tourist-frequented areas, the majority of the locals communicate in the local dialect. Who knows, you might get better deals from shopping using the local language.