Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The best time to visit Akumal is between mid-December and April, the driest part of the year. High temperatures daily are usually around 80 degrees with mostly sunny sky. For turtle watchers, the nesting season runs from the end of April through October, and the hatching season lasts from June to November, which also is hurricane season.
Akumal has beautiful bays, including Half Moon, Greater Akumal and Aventuras Akumal bays. Tropical reefs in the area are called the "Jewel of the Caribbean" and provide exceptional snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing. Kayaking, catamaran rides and jungle tours also are available.
For a relaxing day or afternoon relaxing in calm, blue waters, try the Yal Ku Lagoon. Its waters are protected from the ocean, and it is shallow, only about 15 feet at its deepest point, so it's appropriate for children and families. It has sea turtles, rays, parrot fish and other marine life to enjoy. The park has bathrooms, picnic areas, lockers, snorkel-equipment rental and a snack bar. Arrive early to beat the crowds of tourists. Be sure to use only biodegradable sunscreen to protect the natural environment.
Located just two miles south of Akumal is Aktun Chen, which in Mayan means "natural well inside a cave." Guided tours through this dry cave view impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. The park has an adventure zip-line system through the jungle canopy with 10 lines and two suspension bridges. The "natural well" from which Aktun Chen derives its name is crystal clear and ideal for snorkeling. The park also features a wildlife zoo with local species of plants and animals, including white-tail deer, parrots, toucans, coati mundi -- part of the raccoon family, and several varieties of snakes.
Akumal and its residents are dedicated to the preservation of the area's natural resources. Centro Ecológico de Akumal was created to conduct research, provide educational opportunities and ensure the protection of the region's ecosystem. One aspect of their mission is to report on the impact of human development on the local environment. CEA is dedicated to protecting and studying the sea turtles of Akumal and offers workshops and outreach opportunities. Visitors may attend weekly presentations and participate in workshops and tours.
Once called Zama, thought to mean either "Place of the Dawning Sun" or "City of the New Dawn" in Mayan, Tulum resides on an impressive cliff facing east over the Caribbean. The ruins are 15 miles south of Akumal. Tulum was at its peak between 1,000 and 1,600 A.D., and the ruins now include temples, murals, and a high wall surrounding the city, a feature uncommon to Mayan sites. The site's name "Tulum" means "walled" in Mayan. Distinctive artifacts include the Temple of the Descending God, the city square and the Temple of the God of the Wind. The beach, too, is an important feature of this ruin because it played a major role in the life of the port city.