From its turquoise sea and beaches with fine white sand to crystal-clear cenotes and a lush rainforest, the Mexican Caribbean strives to preserve its natural wealth. Over the last few years, the region has increased efforts for the conservation and preservation of the ecosystem; today, the protection of these natural scenarios is a priority.
“We recognize the challenge that the transition to sustainable tourism represents, but we have great allies that are increasing their sustainability practices daily to continue the Mexican Caribbean’s standing as a global tourism innovator.”, said Dario Flota Ocampo, director of the Quintana Roo Tourism Board.
One of the most famous islands in Mexico is Cozumel, which boasts some of the best sunsets in the world. The Island of the Swallows has a secret: the Pearl Farm, the only active pearl farm in the Caribbean. Cozumel Pearl Farm aims to preserve natural resources and create awareness through research. By maintaining sustainable onsite practices including the use of solar, wind and wave energy, and rainwater collection, the farm believes it can minimize the negative effects human beings are causing.
Meanwhile on Isla Holbox in the natural reserve of Yum Balam, officially a Natural Protected Area, island hotels and businesses support community sustainability. Isla Holbox is famously car-free, which considerably reduces carbon footprint and makes the destination safe to walk, thanks to the short distance between beaches, restaurants, hotels and shops. The standout hotel Casa Blat Ha has an organic orchard with over 70 species of medicinal, edible and local plants. The property is designed to take advantage of the natural wind currents and has incorporated different eco-techniques to minimize environmental impact.
In the center of the Mexican Caribbean is Maya Ka’an (Mayan for “where the Earth beats”), an ecotourism destination for travelers who enjoy being in balance with nature. Area tours go beyond the ordinary and seek to raise awareness for visitors. Tour provider El Viaje de Kanan is also a community tourism network that connects travelers with freelance local guides, who work as cultural ambassadors across different community projects in the area. Another company supporting locals is Eco Tours Adventures, a local tour operator inspired by love and respect for the ocean and wildlife; the team is composed of marine biologists and certified guides.
The area known as Grand Costa Maya located in the south of the State, consisting of Chetumal, Bacalar and Mahahual, is known for its spectacular natural beauty. Locals maintain the region as a space of tranquility, history, adventure and culture. MIA Bacalar Luxury Resort & SPA implements low-impact practices in its daily operations; for example, the hotel water is recycled and treated to be used as irrigation water for the gardens surrounding the rooms; organic waste is repurposed as fertilizer; and the onsite chef’s garden grows local, fresh and chemical-free products used in onsite dining.
Across the region, social responsibility and sustainability consultants Camaleón promote local economic development with over 12 years of experience. Believing that small actions can generate big changes, the Camaleón team advise local businesses on best sustainable practices via custom strategies, events and special projects.
We encourage you to follow your country’s recommendations to have a safe vacation when planning your next trip to the Mexican Caribbean. For more information about traveling to the Mexican Caribbean, please visit: Traveling Safely to the Mexican Caribbean and https://www.
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