Discoverymundo Blog

Category: Snorkel

Ultimate guide to Cozumel

Cozumel is one of the most beautiful beaches and best diving spot in the Western hemisphere, Cozumel is an island dedicated to nature lovers seeking relaxation, romance or adventure. It is Mexico’s third biggest island.If you are travelling to this piece of land, there are many things to do in Cozumel according to your itinerary.

1. Scuba Dive

Diving is one of the main attractions in Cozumel. Divers from all over the world travel to the island to explore the Mesoamerican Reef, the largest barrier reef in the Western hemisphere. It is formed by different types of coral and more than 250 species of tropical fish live there. If you don’t dive, you can also snorkel to observe the marine life from the surface.2. Swim with dolphins

One of the favorite attractions in Cozumel is to swim with dolphins in their natural habit, an experience you will never forget. There are many tours to swim with dolphins in Cozumel: the Swim Adventure allows you to snorkel with them, Dolphin Royal Swim features the exciting foot push and dorsal tow activities, Scuba Dive with Dolphins allows you to dive with the dolphins with no certificate needed and Dolphin Encounter which is ideal for whole families, kids for all ages can experience being in contact with the dolphins while being photographed by cameramen.3. Visit Faro Celerain Eco Park

A trip to Faro Celerain Eco Park is a must, it’s an echological park. It gives 2,500 acres shelter of many infigenous species, such as exotic birds, crocodiles and sea turtles. Not only the animals are the only thing you have to see, you will see the Caracol Mayan ruins and Faro Celerain Lighthouse, where you’ll find a small maritime museum. Also, don’t forget your swimsuit to enjoy Laguna Colombia to play with the water and relax in hammocks. 4. Swim with Sea Lions

Swimming with Sea Lions is fun. You will have time to enjoy their funny and curious behaviors at Cozumel. The Sea Lion Discovery Program includes fun activities with sea lions including learning about their diet, feeding them, petting them, and getting a kiss from them.5. Swim with Manatee

This is a unique kind of adventure, there is only one swim program with manatees in the Caribean called Manatee Encounter. This animals are beautiful and enormous, they can grow as long as 13ft/am and weigh up to 1300 lbs/600 kgs. This is an activity for families to experience swimming with manatees in the paradise of Chankanaab National Park, surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna with views to the turquoise sea.

October 13, 2016
Grand Cenote in the Mayan Riviera

Grand Cenote

This spectacular cenote is located just a few kilometers from Tulum in the Mayan Riviera and is one of the best known in the area. Perfect for snorkeling and diving, this cenote nearly perfect circular is home to marvelous stalagmites and stalactites, as well as refreshing and clear water. With natural light and a depth of about 9 meters, swim in this cenote is something really memorable that you must do on your next vacation in the Mayan Riviera.This large cenote is one of the most popular diving and snorkeling areas in the Mayan Riviera so you can do any of this activities depending on your experience. Many people love to go in groups of friends or family to snorkel in the Grand Cenote, the best season to go is summer when the water isn’t too cold; others who want a little more adventure like to dive in the cenote, experience is required.

This map was provided by
All rights reserved 2001 – 2007 Luis Fernado Martinez

Tour to visit the Grand Cenote:

Cancun Snorkeling Discovery: A tour to snorkel in 3 different Mayan Cenotes including the GRAND CENOTE and also you have the chance to discover the beauty of the turtles sanctuary and coral reef in the area. This includes free hotel roundtrip transportation to the tour, full equipment for the snorkel, food and drinks.

Click here to see this tour

February 18, 2016
Snorkeling in Puerto Morelos

It all started in August holidays, when my father decided to take us to a magical place, the most spectacular experience snorkeling in Puerto Morelos, is the place most colorful and liveliest I know so far.

When we moved in, we grabbed fins, some viewers each and left in his truck, luckily everything is very close and did not have to wait long. Along the way, I was so excited that my hands were shaking, one of two, was I knew something would change in me as my dad would say or the possibility of seeing a shark that anyway no problem because they are friendly and miniature.

Upon reaching the shore, at about 8 in the morning the view was beautiful, seeing the sun through the emerald waters and gave a feeling of freshness.

We take a boat on the beach near the hotel reef, which took us to the barrier reef. It took us about 5 minutes to arrive, the weather was perfect that day, plenty of sunshine and a spectacular view.

Once we arrived, we got snorkeling equipment; mask, fins and life jacket. A few minutes before snorkeling in Puerto Morelos, “Captain Arthur” gave us some recommendations and rules for the care of the reef when snorkeling in Puerto Morelos, as it is a protected natural area.

All set, we got a jump sea. As I entered I felt the life go out of my eyes, it’s a feeling I will never forget; colors, fish swimming in family and living happy. At that moment I knew I had to devote to this all my life, feel the sunshine on my skin and see the colors in every sunrise.

Something that surprised me was the variety of fish in the reef, from different colors and sizes. As a curiosity for those who will go figure, the depth from the sea entrance to the reef is about one meter to three meters. This reef is the world’s second largest barrier reef.

After swimming for hours with my father in the company of Captain Arthur, I decided to dedicate my life to practice snorkeling in Puerto Morelos, in order to convey all that one day I could experience hundreds of travelers.

Currently, at the end of the day when we returned to Puerto Morelos from each trip, I realize how happy I am to share with travelers and especially families to see them happy and enjoying! Here I share several photos of different experiences of snorkeling in Puerto Morelos during the year.

December 5, 2015
World’s weirdest places to scuba dive

Hi there, do you know you can scuba dive between two continents?

I have did number 4, hope I can dive in all of them! Here are the world’s weirdest places to scuba dive:

1. Continental Rift in Iceland

One of the top places to dive in the world, here’s where you can scuba dive between two continents. The rift of Silfra in Island Thingvellier Park is where the tectonic plates meet. Some rather diving, others just snorkeling.
A very surprising thing is the visibility in the rift of Silfra, about 100 meters. All divers say they feel flying on space when they try this experience. The reason for this water visibility are that the water is really cold (2°C-4°C all year) that is also becomes ice for the close glaciar water of Langjökull and this water is filtered through porous inderground lava for 30-100 years until it reaches the north end of Thingvellir lake. This is water is so pristine that you an drink it anytime during your diving or snorkel!

2. Mysterious Ruins in Japan

On the southern coast of Yonaguni, Japan, lie this mysterious ruins of long time ago. Some think alliens made them, others think is just a World Nature Wonder! This mysterious ruins underwater continue attracting fearless divers!

3. Indonesia active volcano underwater

You want to see a volcano from close without the threat of toxic air and lava flows? Yes it can be possible and it can be done at Banua Wuhu! This underwater volcano rises more than 400 meters from the sea floor. Exotic animals like sponges habit here. There is a unique and diverse world here. You might think it is dangerous but no, the only thing that is a little uncomfortable it’s if you don’t wear the right dive suit.

4. MUSA Underwater Museum in Cancun, Mexico

This is the one I’ve dived into, it was one of the best experiences. If you head to the Caribbean in Mexico. There is the MUSA, an underwater museum with more than 400 statues surrounded by marine life and coral reefs. Each statue has an eye formation to protect theirselves and the sea life. The moment you are there in front of one, you might feel a little nervous!

5. Nepture Memorial Reef (UNDERWATER CEMENTERY)

A little more than 5 kilometers from the Coast of Miami, there’s this different diving experience and a little creepy. An artificial reef that becomes a CEMENTERY! It is a truly world like no other. This cemetery beneath the waves is a special spot that people can make their final resting place.

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November 18, 2015
Marietas Islands

If you’re traveling to Mexico and you have no idea about what to do you can visit Marietas Islands.

The Marietas Islands is a group of small uninhabited islands in the state of Nayarit a few miles of Punta de Mita and Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit, Mexico. They are very a popular tourist destinations because of the abundant marine life, because the islands are protected from fishing and hunting.

The most famous and visited point of this island is Playa Escondida, also known as Hidden Beach.

People constantly reported sightings of sea turtles, stingrays, octopus, wild dolphins, whales and thousands of species of tropical fish around the islands. They are also home to a few thousand of birds species such as the blue-footed boobies.

In Punta de Mita you will find small boats out doing tours through the islands to see the wildlife of this region. Approximately in the period from December to March you can observe gray and whales that come from Alaska in order to give birth off the coast of Nayarit.

Explore the bay as you head out to the islands, looking for dolphins, rays and turtles along the way. As you reach the islands, you will encounter over 90 species of birds that call the island home.

This duration of this tour is about 7 hours and you will totally need your camera to take pictures of this wonderful island.

You will enjoy time in the clear refreshing waters around the islands swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and exploring a buffet lunch, open bar, music and an entertaining performance by the crew.

You can make the reservation for this tour with Discovery Mundo clicking here Isla Escondida tour includes Continental breakfast, Deli style lunch, Open bar, Snorkel equipment, Kayak equipment, Wetsuit and Paddle board.

October 10, 2015
Tips before going to Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is one of the most visited places in Cancun, this paradise Island will be unforgettable for you. I’ll give you some tips that you need to know before going to Isla Mujeres:

Get Your Beach Kit Ready

If you are an adventurous traveler don’t forget to bring everything you need to have the best time. Remember if you want to do beach activities don’t forget to bring your bathing suit, a good sunscreen, your beach kit, a camera, water glasses and anything else you would like to bring!

Buy your ferry tickets Online

If you want to get fast to Isla Mujeres you have to take a Ferry, but there will be times that buying your ticket will take a long time… That’s why i recommend you to buy them online and avoid making lines ( Ferry Tickets Online here).

Take advantage of the Tours of Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres offers a lot of activities for tourists: Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Swimming with Dolphins, Swimming with Sharks, Parasailing, Ziplines and a lot more. Some tours include food and drinks. ( Tours of Isla Mujeres here )

Pre book your stay in Isla Mujeres

There are a lot of hotels and places in a good price and next to the beach where you can stay in Isla Mujeres. You can find yours at the moment you arrive at the Island; but there is nothing better to have everything ready with anticipation to avoid complications.
I hope this tips work for you. If you like this article share it in facebook with your friends!

October 8, 2015
Whalesharks

Whalesharks inhabits the warm oceans and seas, near the tropics. They are believed as pelagic fish, but in certain seasons migrate long distances to coastal areas like Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, Utila in Honduras, Donsol and Batangas in the Philippines, the island of Holbox in the state of Quintana Roo, Yucatan peninsulas and Baja California, Mexico, the islands of Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania, Coiba and the Pearl Islands in Panamá. Is also possible to see them near the coast, entering lagoons or coral atolls, and near the mouths or rivers. Usually remain within ± 30 ° latitude, and at a depth of 700 meters. They may usually solitary act, but occasionally form groups to feed in areas with large concentrations of food. The males can be found in most different places, while females prefer to stay in more specific places.

This species, despite its huge size, is not danger for humans. It is a widely cited example to fame with sharks devouring people. Actually, they are quite affectionate, and often playful with divers. There are even reports, though unconfirmed, whale sharks that come to the surface face up to the diver you scratch his belly and removes parasites.

This shark is often observed by divers and tourists in boats off the Yucatan Peninsula on the island of Holbox, in the Bay Islands of Honduras, in the Maldives, the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador; Philippines, Thailand, the Red Ningaloo Reef and Christmas Island in Western Australia, Tofo Beach in Mozambique and Sodwana Bay in South Africa Sea. Some of these places, such as in Western Australia, have become central points of the ecotourism industry.

The highest concentration of whale sharks in the world is in the Philippines. Between January and May, they are grouped in the shallow shores of Donsol in Sorsogon province. Some very fortunate divers found whale sharks in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and the Seychelles. Between December and September, very often it is running into some unit in the Bay of La Paz, in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur and from May to September on the northeast coast of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Sometimes they are accompanied by small fish, like remora. Recently, they have been spotted in the vicinity of the Tenggol island, located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, where there are several coral reefs frequented by these sharks, as Redang Island, or Island Kapas.

Come and explore the amazing world of whale sharks in what we are sure will be the best experience of your life and you can book your tour with Discovery Mundo.

October 3, 2015
Best Cenotes in the Mayan Riviera

Cenote, is a term that comes from “Dzonot” which in Maya means “abyss” are wells of fresh water created by the erosion of limestone. Diving in the cenotes of Riviera Maya is one of the most extraordinary experiences a diver can have.. and Mexico is paradise to enjoy these geological whims. It is estimated that only in the Yucatan Peninsula there are over 3000 cenotes.. and many still undiscovered throughout Mexico.

I´ll show you the best cenotes in the Mayan Riviera:

Grand Cenote

Grand Cenote is one of the best Cenotes, you must visit it. It is located outside of Tulum on the 307 highway. Plenty of stalactites are in this cenote with crystal water. You´ll see around fishes and turtles! Don’t forget to bring your camera and get ready to jump into this big hole.

Cenote Dos Ojos

Located close to XEL-HA water park. This cenote is for scuba diving, amazing landscape and impressive experience that you will never forget. If you want to snorkel, you can access to the second cenote on the right taking the stairs!

Chaak Tun

This cenote is hidden behind the jungle of Playa del Carmen, you will find a natural paradise in here. One of the favorite cenotes of the tourists. The best time to visit this cenote is after 1pm when larger group tours already finished their excursions.

Rio Secreto

Come and experience this stunning underground river with thousands of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. Rio Secreto, located 5 km south Playa del Carmen. Starting off with a walk through the jungle followed by a descendence of 15 meters through mother Earth’s maze to access and wade through the underground river during 1 hour and a half.

September 29, 2015
What it feels to swim in a big hole of water: Grand Cenote in Riviera Maya

You wanna know what it feels to jump into a big hole of water? Here I wrote a little story that describes the day I decided to jump into Grand Cenote at Riviera Maya, Mexico.

The Riviera Maya is very recognize by the tourists who came for holidays to the beach, they have a lot of fun doing snorkel, shopping and parties, but there is a lot of things to do here.

For example, I live in Cancun, and once you be here you will see you got a lot of options to do; and this time it was for me to do something fun and adventurous, it was on Sunday, very close to cancun is Playa del Carmen, by car you will get there in 40 minutes, and is very popular go to the Routes of the Cenotes, here in the route there are almost 10 differents cenotes that you can met to have a lot of fun, the name is because directly on the avenue from Paya del Carmen to Tulum you will see the entrance for a lot of Cenotes, the one that i was looking for to learn calls Gran Cenote, this cenote is perfect to those ones who loves diving.

I was with my friends that day having a lot of fun after a good party last night at Palazzo that is on the 12 street in Playa del Carmen, we woke up early to start our day at 100% of energy and attitude! So I took my car and drived with my friends looking for the Gran Cenote, but no one of us go there before jaja wrond! I ask for the location and first of all the cenote is located in Tulum, its only at 2 km from the archaeological park, from Playa del Carmen to Tulum its on the right side of the road directly to Cobá.

When we finally arrived there we see a lot of tourist, for the entrance you have to pay 200 pesos; this Price is because the entrance includes the food, by the time you get into you see a natural place, its very quiet and calm, before we can go to swim we needed to use the showers to be more clean, that one is a rule of the place. After the shower we took the way downstairs to finally swim in the cenote. For our surprise the place was amazing, honestly i can’t describe it better, is beautiful. You can see all the nature and creation that God did for us for our entertainment. To enjoy more we rented a snorkel equipment for the Price of 30 pesos and for our stuffs a locker with the same Price, finally we were ready to jump for our enjoy!!

If you see the water is very clear, you can see everything almost without an snorkel, we tought it wasn’t to much deep, we tought that maybe it was like 5 meters, so then, we decide to jump from the stairs and start swimming, the first touch on the water was insane!! is supercold!!! Jajaja Omg! You almost get like an ice cube!! But we didn’t payed attention cause the feeling disappeared by the time we stayed on the water. We were swimming with the others tourists and local people in there having fun.

When I decide to use the snorkel and try to touch with my hand the rocks down to us, in fact i try to do it with my feet cause i thougt it was like one meter from me, but i just put the snorkel and I discovered that the rock was at almost 12 meters from me!! O.o (that was my face after seeing that) i was scared!!

After that i knew that the most deepest part in that cenote was 20 meters!! You felt like if you were flying, and in the same moment I saw a light deep with my eyes behind me, there were some people diving down there! they were biologists looking for another connection between more cenotes, and another more were tourists.

After a lot of time swimming and having fun we went out and went for some food. I can tell the water was delicious, nothing bad for a new experience. Believe me if you are looking for more fun apart the parties here, if you want to disconnect yourself from all the noise and get relax for one day and if you want a new experience you have to try this! It’s a beautiful memory that you will never forget, and like i said is not the only one, you have a lot!! This was my experience in this cenote, so…imagine how are you gonna feel when you try this? You have a lot of options here and experiences to meet, try!!!.

Manuel Hernández

August 15, 2015
Another Side of Playa del Carmen

Once a small fishing village, Playa del Carmen has grown exponentially in recent years. Today, it’s one of the hippest spots in the Yucatán Peninsula and the third-largest city in Quintana Roo. It’s also conveniently situated for vacationers near enough for Cancun airport transfers to and from the hotel and an easy day trip away from other popular tourist destinations like Tulum, Cozumel, and Cobá. While visitors likely want to experience the attractions geared toward tourists, such as various guided tours, they may also enjoy seeing a more relaxed side of the Playa del Carmen area.

This is where bike rentals come into play. With rentals averaging around $10 a day and widely available throughout the city, cycling is not just a means to stay fit while vacationing. It’s an economical way to tour Playa del Carmen that gives you the freedom to explore venues that lie off the well-worn tourist path. Feel free to just wing your route, and you’re sure to find some cool spots and maybe a lesser-known establishment to sample local fare. There are a few tried-and-true routes, however, you may want to follow.

If you want a shorter ride that reveals how the locals really live, just head west past Highway 307. This takes you into a residential area with colorful homes and landscaping. There are also several ice cream shops to satisfy your sweet tooth and help cool you off if the heat becomes too much. Once you build up a more substantial appetite, you may even want to check out La Floresta on the corner of Highway 307 and Calle 14 Norte, which offers lunchtime seafood tacos the locals recommend highly.

Another easy, approximately 2 km ride east of Highway 307 Punta Venado turnoff takes you to Punta Venado Caribbean Eco-Park, which lies at nearly a halfway mark between Playa del Carmen and Cristalino. The park is full of jungle wildlife, and scores of fun activities are available. There, you can lock up your bike and go snorkeling, take a guided horseback ride, or take a dip in a cenote. If you arrive early enough, you’ll likely beat the tourist crowds and have plenty of time for a leisurely pedal back to your hotel in Playa del Carmen.

For those really wanting a secluded spot and a more vigorous ride, go about 25 km south along Highway 307. This takes you to the cenotes in El Jardin del Eden, Cenote Azul and Cristalino. As with other places, the early bird gets the worm, and it’s not unlikely to be the only ones swimming before the heat sets in. Make sure to take a little cash with you for the ride because the cenotes generally charge a modest admission fee, and you’ll surely want to stop for refreshments on the ride back to Playa del Carmen. When touring the Playa del Carmen region by bicycle, however, you should always consider your safety. Many of the roads, including Highway 307, are fairly narrow with a high volume of traffic. So, be aware of your surroundings as you pedal and pull off to the side where necessary. Of course, always wear your helmet when cycling; one should be included with your bike rental. If it isn’t, request one or go to another shop that offers such protection. Your rental establishment should also provide you with a bike lock for when you want to stop and explore.

Most of the bike rental shops in Playa del Carmen are located just north of Constituyentes Avenue on 30^th Avenue. Depending on the type of cycling you prefer and chosen route, you can opt for beach cruisers, mountain bikes or road bikes. Be warned, however, that most of the bike shops are closed on Sundays, and you should check that your tires are properly inflated and make any adjustments to the seat or handlebars before you take off.

July 6, 2015