Mexico Beach Vacations & Luxury Mexico Resort Reviews

Swimming with the Dolphins in the Mayan Riviera, Mexico

The Mayan Riviera consists of some 100-odd miles of dazzling white beaches running along the amazing blue waters of the Caribbean. When you enter the Riviera, you step into a paradise of lagoons and mangroves, ancient Mayan ruins and ecological reserves. Believe it or not, one of the most popular activities is the unique opportunity to indulge in a swim with the dolphins.

Dolphins are marvelous mammals that interact easily, warmly and intelligently with humans. The most common species of dolphin found in the Riviera is the “Bottle Nose” dolphin. Each of the dolphin areas has been developed with specific objectives like education, reproduction and scientific studies. Thus there is a thriving population of dolphins here and they are a major tourist attraction.

The Riviera Maya has two of the most famous dolphinariums in the Caribbean, Xcaret and Xel-Ha. These are eco-archeological parks and they are near-perfect for an unparalleled day of fun and frolic with these vigorous mammals. The dolphins here are trained to be around people and are not aggressive unless provoked. The best part is that you don’t even have to know how to swim to swim with them. You will be provided with a life vest and the dolphins will do the rest.

Xcaret: This famous park consists of two dolphinariums created in the ocean. You get to meet these creatures in their natural habitat when you visit the underwater tunnel where the dolphins swim.

Xel-Ha: Renowned the world over as the largest Natural Aquarium in the world, Xel-Ha is full of activities for the young and old.

Most programs cost around $150; the exact cost varies with the program you choose.

Here are some typical programs offered in the parks:

• Swim with the dolphins (a one-hour program demonstrates the strength and agility of these mammals).
• Delphi kids (a 30-minute program for kids where children and their parents explore and learn about dolphins).
• Trainer for a day (for people above the age of 15, this program lets you learn about dolphins in depth).
• DelphinuX Primax (a 50 minute program that is an ‘underwater fantasy’ where you can experience the thrill of a lifetime)

Here are some other dolphin options:

Puerto Aventuras: This popular Dolphin Discovery program that starts off with a welcome ‘handshake’ and kiss. You can even put on a snorkeling suit and snorkel with the dolphins, watching their amazing speed and dexterity. Their program lasts for a heady 45 minutes and group sizes are limited to 10, so every member can get quality time with the dolphins.

Chankanaab National Marine Park: A short taxi ride away from the International Pier, Chankanaab Park is open from 8am to 5pm. This is an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving activities. The ‘Royal Swim’ program offered by the park is very successful and popular with tourists who love the idea of touching and interacting with dolphins. The park consists of a number of trainers and veterinarians. Daily rides start at 9am and prices begin at $139 per person.

These ‘discover dolphins’ programs in the Mayan Riviera are designed to help you play and learn with the dolphins while they swim all around you. To enable tourists to experience their encounters in a natural environment, many different packages are offered. The idea behind the experience is not merely a swim, but to get to know these creatures up close. To do this, most swim programs start with a brief audio or video orientation that will give you some amazing information about these creatures. Then, it is time to get into the water and participate in whatever activity you have chosen.

Most ‘swimming with the dolphins’ programs at the Mayan Riviera allow you to swim by, kiss and touch the dolphins. You also get to see a number of different behaviors like the ‘Foot push’ where dolphins get under your foot and push you through the water. You can also experience other activities like the “Dorsal Tow” and “Hurdle Jump”.

What to bring:

• A bottle of suntan lotion (but make sure it’s the dolphin/ecology friendly kind.  You can usually buy it on site)
• Bottled water
• Swim suits
• Towels
• Hat
• Extra cash for snacks
• Sunglasses

Only people who are in good health condition are allowed to swim with the dolphins. Most resorts allow advanced bookings, which is a must during peak tourist seasons.

Top Vacation Package Deals at Expedia.com

Your Trip, Your Way at Expedia.ca