Our journey of discovery through Yucatán

From whale sharks to Mayan temples

Marcel & Fiona

Our trip of the Mexican state of Yucatán will stay with us forever. This trip was a perfect blend of adventure, nature, culture and relaxation. From diving in the Caribbean Sea to sleeping in the heart of the jungle, from ancient Mayan cities to swimming in crystal-clear cenotes.

A spectacular start underwater
Our trip got off to a flying start: diving from Playa del Carmen. First up, we went diving at the C-56, a former minesweeper from the Second World War. The descent to the wreck was quite a challenge. Due to the current and the seaweed, we first had to find our way to the buoy, after which we could descend using a rope. So it wasn’t exactly relaxing, but once we were down there, all our worries were forgotten.

Right there on the sandy seabed lay a huge stingray. What a welcome! And there were also 15 eagle rays swimming calmly past the wreck. A magical moment. During the second dive at the reef, we were able to relax and take in the sights. We saw beautiful fish, lobsters and another stingray. But the highlight had to be two nurse sharks swimming calmly past us. Our shark mission had already been a success!

Or so we thought...

A magical world beneath the jungle.
As well as the sea, we were also keen to explore Yucatán’s famous cenotes. At first, we found it quite nerve-wracking. After all, you’re jumping into a hole in the middle of the jungle without knowing exactly what you’ll find at the bottom. But it was absolutely stunning.
We went for two dives in different cenotes. The first cenote in particular, Dos Ojos, was truly magical. The combination of crystal-clear water and impressive stalactites and stalagmites left a lasting impression.

The tranquillity and colours of Bacalar
After all the underwater experiences, Bacalar was a lovely place to slow down for a while. The famous Laguna Bacalar, also known as the Lake of Seven Colours, made an immediate impression. We took a leisurely boat trip across the lake, swam in the warm fresh water and, above all, enjoyed the tranquillity and the beautiful surroundings. It was a lovely change of pace after the adventurous days of diving.
Bacalar showed us a different side of Mexico: less well-known, on a smaller scale and, precisely because of that, incredibly special.

Sleeping in the jungle and stepping back in time with the Maya
We continued our journey towards the jungle of Calakmul. It was a stark contrast. Our accommodation was literally in the middle of the jungle. No Wi-Fi at the cottage, no mobile signal and, of course, no air conditioning. That meant a hot night, but also a unique experience.

The diversity of Yucatán
Fortunately, in between all the adventures, there was also plenty of time to relax in the charming haciendas, small-scale hotels and unique accommodation options that gave each destination its own distinct character.

The Celestún Biosphere Reserve on the Gulf of Mexico also took us by surprise. We sailed through vast mangrove forests, spotted flamingos, countless species of birds and even an alligator.

A trip to remember
What made this trip so special was the combination of everything. One day you’re swimming alongside a whale shark, the next you’re standing amongst ancient Mayan temples.

Thanks to Sapa Pana, everything was perfectly organised. Each and every one of the accommodation options was special and blended in beautifully with the surroundings. The local guides really brought the nature and culture to life and ensured we discovered some truly special places.

We look back on a fantastic trip full of moments we’ll never forget!