Around Chacalal, different natural and cultural themes come together without becoming a single attraction: nearby are the archaeological site of Xelhá, Xel-Há Park, the sea at Akumal, and the protected area of Xcacel-Xcacelito. Chacalal is also close to the town of Ciudad Chemuyil. When choosing where to stay, it is worth deciding first what you want to focus on: Are you more interested in archaeological history, a cenote experience, the protected status of a natural area, or the seascape?
Xelhá: History and Murals
During the Late Postclassic period, from 1250 to 1550, the archaeological site of Xelhá was one of the most important trading ports on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. The site’s history is therefore tied to coastal trade; the dates clearly define this historical focus. The architectural heritage includes the Edificio de los Pájaros, which preserves outstanding examples of mural painting. Those interested in culture can distinguish two aspects here: Xelhá’s role as a trading port during a specific period, and the paintings in a specifically named building. History and architecture complement each other, without one replacing the other.
Another connection to Xelhá leads to Xel-Há Park. There, the Snuba® Cenote activity combines features of diving with a snorkeling session, taking participants down to a depth of seven meters in a cenote. This makes it possible to distinguish a cultural visit from a specific water activity: the archaeological site represents a historical role as a port and its murals, while the park activity combines diving and snorkeling. Participation requirements may change, so check the latest information about the activity in advance.
Getting to Xel-Há Park
The park is located at kilometer 240 of the Chetumal–Puerto Juárez highway, in the Municipality of Tulum in the state of Quintana Roo. Free parking is available at the park. Buses run from the central bus station in Cancún on Avenida Uxmal and from the bus station in Playa del Carmen on 5a Avenida to the ticket booths at Xel-Há Park. Since schedules may change, check the route before traveling. These buses go to the park ticket booths; when planning, make sure your route suits the Xelhá destination you have chosen.
Protected Area and Seascape
The natural features also offer different points of interest. The protected natural area Santuario de la Tortuga Marina Xcacel-Xcacelito is designated as a Zona Sujeta a Conservación Ecológica. Its protected-area classification is therefore central to this location. In Akumal, shallow marine waters shape the surroundings: there is a permanent gathering of different fish species and sea turtles, especially extensive seagrass beds and some coral patches. This comparison helps distinguish two different aspects of the landscape: the formal protected status of an area and the described marine habitats.
Discover more destinations: Isla Mujeres, Palmul, Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Calderita, Vigía Chico, Cancún, Holbox Island, Estero Franco
For the broader travel overview: Quintana Roo.
