PHOTO: The Explorean Cozumel by Fiesta Americana. Courtesy of Fiesta Americana.
The Explorean Cozumel by Fiesta Americana calls itself the adventure resort for travelers, not tourists. And with daily guided expeditions and treks included in the room rate, it's easy to see why. Guests may choose from a variety of adventures, ranging from cycling and hiking to snorkeling and kayaking -- with a dose of horseback riding or dune-buggy adventures thrown in for good measure. While billed as soft adventure these excursions certainly don't scrimp on thrills and are suitable for a wide range of fitness levels and ages. For those looking to kick it up a notch, side-trips and extra activities are also available.
One if by Land
For people who prefer their adventure on dry land, Explorean offers a wide variety of activities. A trek into the jungle on horseback winds past colorful birds and flowers before emerging at the ancient city of Cedral, one of the first settlements on the island. If horseback rides seem too tame, a dune buggy adventure may fit the bill. This day-long excursion takes guests along the island's coastal road with stops at the Villa Maya, where they can see how Mayans once lived and worked; San Martin Beach, an off-the-beaten path stop and a nesting site for sea turtles; and Lookout Point, the perfect venue from which to take in a Caribbean sunset.
Those wanting a bit more of a workout can opt for the Santa Rita Cycle Adventure, which departs from Santa Rita village and takes in Mayan ruins and lush tropical flora and fauna. The Punta Sur Park Tour is akin to the "best of" tours, encompassing deserted beaches, tropical jungles and a snorkel tour.
Cozumel is home to 10 archeological sites, and guests of the Explorean would be remiss if they failed to visit San Gervasio, an awe-inspiring complex that was the ceremonial home of Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of fertility. Explore modern-day Cozumel like a local with stops at the some of the places most popular among residents, including an ancient cenote, the Mexican Air Force base, the Cozumel Museum and the town square for shopping.
Two if by Sea
Spend a leisurely afternoon paddling through crystal-clear water on a kayak excursion to Tormentos Reef and Chankanaab Park. Guests of the Explorean also have the opportunity to snorkel along the Columbia Reef, known for generations as a top scuba destination. After floating along with the current, a short boat ride takes explorers to a nearby cove where they can get up close and personal with the thousands of starfish who live there.
Other options include a paddleboard and snorkel tour to Dzul-Ha Reef to take in a dazzling array of tropical fish and colorful coral, or a sailing expedition to Chankanaab Park. The Sundown Discovery Tour takes passengers on a kayak cruise to Isla de la Pasion, a rarely visited but always stunning section of the island. Once there, guests will be amazed by the pristine waters and beaches, before taking in the sunset and later, as darkness falls, the amazing array of nocturnal sea life.
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