Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in , Riviera Maya & the Yucatan!

Chichen Itza

Why Visit?

Embark on a fascinating wheelchair-accessible journey to Chichen Itza, one of the world’s most renowned archaeological wonders, nestled in the heart of Mexico"s Yucatan Peninsula. Here’s how to enjoy a fully accessible and enriching tour of this ancient Mayan city.

Getting There:

Start your adventure from Cancun or Merida, which provide the closest accessible airports. From these cities, opt for a private wheelchair-accessible vehicle, which can be arranged through various tour operators, ensuring a comfortable ride directly to the site. The drive from Cancun takes about 2 hours, immersing you in the beautiful Yucatecan landscape.

At Chichen Itza:

Upon arrival, start at the visitor center where wheelchair rentals are available, ensuring all areas of the site are accessible. The paths around Chichen Itza are mostly flat and made of crushed gravel, making navigation relatively easy with a mobile scooter or wheelchair.

Key Highlights:

1. El Castillo (The Kukulkan Pyramid): This iconic pyramid stands majestically at the center, featuring a step-free access viewing point from the nearby path, where you can admire the serpent-shadow phenomenon during the equinoxes.

2. The Great Ball Court: As the largest ball court in ancient Mesoamerica, this site is easily accessible, with a firm surface surrounding the court for an unobstructed view of the carvings depicting the Mayan ball game.

3. The Sacred Cenote: A flat pathway leads to the viewing area of this natural sinkhole, once a site of ritual sacrifices.

Interesting Facts:

- Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

- The site is structured to resemble a calendar, reflecting the Mayans" astronomical accuracy.

Accessibility Tips:

- Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

- Ensure to stay hydrated and wear sun protection throughout your exploration.

Chichen Itza’s blend of accessibility and mystique makes it a must-visit, promising a glimpse into the profound depths of Mayan culture.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Xcaret

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey through Xcaret, a vibrant eco-archaeological park nestled on the Caribbean coast near Playa del Carmen, Mexico, designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, including visitors using wheelchairs and mobile scooters.

Getting There

Arrive with ease at Xcaret, which is well-serviced by accessible transport options. From Cancun, you can take a 60-minute drive or opt for private transfers which offer accessible vehicles upon request. Upon arrival, the park offers wheelchair rentals, ensuring all areas are easy to navigate.

Start your Tour at the Main Plaza

Begin your exploration at the Main Plaza, the heart of Xcaret. This area is completely accessible, with smooth pathways and ramps. Delight in the local crafts and vibrant performances that showcase Mexican culture.

River Ride

Experience the tranquil waters of the underground rivers. For wheelchair users, specially adapted rafts make this serene float through ancient Mayan channels a highlight. Staff members are ready to assist in transferring to the rafts, ensuring a comfortable adventure.

Visit the Aviary and Butterfly Pavilion

Roam through the immersive Aviary, home to over 44 species of tropical birds. The pathways are well-paved and spacious. Nearby, the Butterfly Pavilion offers an accessible and mesmerizing encounter with colorful butterflies fluttering in a lush, tropical setting.

Explore the Mayan Village

Wheel through the recreated Mayan Village, where paved paths lead through historical reconstructions and demonstrations of traditional Mayan life. Engage with local artisans and observe ancient weaving techniques and pottery making.

Relax at the Beach

Conclude your visit by unwinding at one of Xcaret’s accessible beaches. Equipped with beach wheelchairs, the sandy shores and crystal-clear waters are inviting and inclusive.

Practical Tips

- Plan your visit in advance and reserve necessary equipment like wheelchairs.

- Use the park"s app to keep track of accessible routes and show schedules.

A day at Xcaret is not just a tour but an enriching journey through the vibrant heart and soul of Mexico, made accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Tulum

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Exploration of Tulum

Day 1: Arrival and Settling In

Kick off your adventure in the stunning coastal town of Tulum. Check into one of the many wheelchair-friendly hotels, such as the Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa, which offers accessible rooms and paths. Spend your evening relishing the sea breeze at a beachfront restaurant with accessible facilities, such as Ziggy"s, known for its excellent local cuisine and easy access.

Day 2: Tulum Archaeological Site

Start your day early to avoid the heat and crowds at the Tulum Archaeological Site, one of the few Maya sites located by the sea. Special pathways and viewing platforms make the ruins accessible and provide stunning views of the Caribbean. Although some areas might be challenging, the main paths are manageable with a mobile scooter or wheelchair. Don"t miss the iconic El Castillo pyramid overlooking the turquoise waters. Shuttle services from the parking area make the entrance convenient, and guided tours tailored for wheelchair users are available.

Day 3: Cenote Adventure

Experience the natural wonder of a cenote, a freshwater sinkhole sacred to the ancient Maya. Cenote Casa Tortuga offers accessible paths and platforms, allowing you to admire these unique geological formations. The cenote is equipped with ramps and even has an area where less mobile visitors can enjoy the water.

Day 4: Sian Ka"an Biosphere Reserve

Dedicate your day to exploring the Sian Ka"an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Tulum. Tour operators like Community Tours Sian Ka"an offer accessible boat tours, where you can glide through mangroves and observe local wildlife such as dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Day 5: Leisure and Departure

Enjoy a leisurely morning at Playa Paraíso, known for its accessible beach boardwalks. Later, soak in some local culture and craft shopping at Tulum’s handicraft markets, which are mostly accessible, before your departure.

This itinerary promises a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, all tailored for accessibility, ensuring a memorable and comfortable visit to Tulum.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Rio Secreto Nature Reserve

Why Visit?

Embark on a remarkable journey through the Rio Secreto Nature Reserve, where accessibility meets the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the Riviera Maya"s most spectacular natural wonders. This wheelchair-friendly tour is designed to accommodate mobility scooters as well, ensuring all travelers can experience the magic of this unique ecosystem.

Getting There

Rio Secreto is located just a few kilometers from Playa del Carmen. You can reach the reserve by taxi or a pre-arranged accessible van from your hotel. Ensure to request a vehicle that suits your mobility needs. Once at the reserve, smooth pathways and dedicated staff will help guide you through the premises.

Tour Itinerary

Your tour begins at the visitor center, where you"ll meet your guide who specializes in accessibility. They will brief you on the day’s activities and safety measures.

1. Nature Trails

Start with the accessible nature trails, designed with flat and firm paths, offering a gentle journey through the lush jungle. You"ll see a variety of local flora and fauna — keep an eye out for exotic birds and perhaps the elusive kinkajou.

2. The Underground Experience

Next, delve into a specially modified route of the famous crystal-clear cenotes and underground rivers that make Rio Secreto a marvel. The pathways here are well-lit and broad, allowing easy navigation for wheelchairs and scooters. You"ll witness stunning stalactites and stalagmites formations, all from the comfort of your mobility device.

Interesting Facts

- Rio Secreto"s name translates to "Secret River," aptly named for its hidden wonders beneath the Yucatán Peninsula.

- The reserve is committed to conservation, preserving the pristine condition of this ancient geological formation.

Facilities & Tips

The reserve is equipped with accessible restrooms and resting areas. It"s advisable to book your visit in advance to ensure all specific accessibility needs are met. Don"t forget to bring water, a hat, and sunscreen for a comfortable adventure.

Enjoy this serene and inclusive exploration where nature’s beauty is accessible to everyone at Rio Secreto Nature Reserve.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Cave of the Sleeping Sharks

Why Visit?

Day 1: Discover the Enigmatic Cave of the Sleeping Sharks

Morning: Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Cancun. Use the accessible services of Adapted Vans of America to rent a wheelchair-friendly vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride to your first destination. Head towards Isla Mujeres, a picturesque island just a short ferry ride from Cancun. The Ultramar ferry offers an accessible service with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs, making your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Afternoon: Once you arrive at Isla Mujeres, make your way to the mystical Cave of the Sleeping Sharks. This unique underwater cave, discovered in the 1960s, was once famous for being a place where sharks could be found apparently asleep, resting motionless on the ocean floor without needing to swim to breathe. Although the sleeping sharks are less commonly seen nowadays, the cave remains a captivating site, rich with marine life and coral formations. For your underwater adventure, join a wheelchair-accessible submarine tour provided by AquaWorld. Their submarine is equipped with a lift, making it easy for wheelchair users to board and disembark. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the serene beauty of this underwater cave, all from the comfort of your submarine seat.

Evening: Return to Cancun and indulge in a delightful dinner at "El Fish Fritanga." This restaurant is not only known for its exquisite seafood but also for its accessibility. Wide aisles and accessible restrooms make it a perfect spot to conclude your day. As you enjoy your meal, reflect on the incredible marine life and the unique geological formations you explored today.

Interesting Facts: The phenomenon of the sleeping sharks puzzled scientists for years. It turns out, the cave has high levels of oxygen, allowing sharks to breathe without needing to move, thus appearing to be asleep.

Travel Tip: Always check the weather and sea conditions before your submarine expedition, as they can greatly affect visibility and overall experience.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.