I just had surgery a month ago so I decided to forego the ATV ride to the site. The staff was very understanding and drove me in the truck instead. When you get to HQ you're outfitted with the proper gear and take either the ATVs (if you added that package) or the truck to the zip-lines. There are about 3 wobbly bridges (just hold onto the line above your head as they direct so you don't fall like me 😂) You've also got 9 decently long zip-lines that allow you to soar over the beautiful forestry. There's a staff member at the end that stops you so that you don't have to worry about stopping yourself like some zip-lines. This gives you more opportunity to record your adventure. Be sure to find a way to secure your phone/camera to yourself. I used a hair tie wrapped through the ring on the back of my phone and had it tied around my wrist. There's also a staff photographer so you can opt not to bring a camera as well.
In between wobbly bridges and the zip-lines there's also a small rock-climbing wall and rappelling down the other side. To finish, we went to 2 different cenotes. Life jackets are provided as well as goggles if you want them. The first cenote is closed and more cave-like. It was a treat to be able to swim below the stalactites and around the stalagmites. The second cenote is open-air and the water is so blue! Here, you're given time to explore the different chambers and even jump off the platform if you'd like. Swimming is optional but I highly recommend you get in!
The excursion finishes with either Mexican or Mayan tacos. Whatever is prepared for the day. The food was delicious! I got seconds! I don't know what the other reviewer was complaining about. It's not fair to write a negative review just for the food when the company's selling point is zip-lining. Just my opinion. Ignore them.
During lunch, Luis (the photographer) showed the photos he took and were given the opportunity to buy them. He takes photos of you at almost every activity. For a mere $40 and to not have to bring your own camera (that you may drop) you can have all of the photos e-mailed to you in a zip file. The decision was easy for all of the groups present. Totally worth it!
You have the opportunity to tip the staff after lunch, and please do! This job is fun, for sure, but they put so much time and work into making it safe and fun FOR YOU. Please bring cash and tip accordingly. I am so grateful that we did this particular excursion. We spent most of our time with Gaël and Sergio on the lines. I don't remember everyone else's names but everyone was honestly fantastic and so easy to get along with.
After lunch and the photo review you take either the ATVs or truck back to the office so the adventure is not quite over yet. This was definitely my favorite part of visiting Mexico! I do zip-lines in every country I visit and I've been to 21 countries so far. This is one of...
Read moreThis is outside my comfort zone for the most part: I have a fierce fear of heights, and speed. ATVs, ziplines, wobbly bridges, climbing and rappelling - part of the allure for my children - aren't my thing. I knew I'd be okay with the other attractions (cenotes, mainly).
I paid $80 USD for me, and $40 apiece for my children. The ATV was not included, and was a separate $40 USD or $800 pesos. I tried driving it (a chump for my kids' pleasure, alas) but was too afraid to move forward at anything other than a crawl. I requested one of the guides to drive them on it, which he did whilst I gratefully took a seat on the (equally-scary) open-air tiny bus.
I'd bring sunglasses for this ATV part of the journey - it was dusty. And it took like 25 minutes, winding through the jungle roads. We encountered what seemed to me to be an amazing amount of traffic - but people live out here, in the jungle, plus a variety of eco hotels and cenotes.
I thought I'd be too afraid for the ziplines, but I closed my eyes and whizzed on through. My kids (my son at 12, my daughter's 10 today) loved them, went upside down, hammed it up for the cameraman. The bridges I found slightly more terrifying, but I wobbled my way to safety. The treeline was never too far away, which created (for me) an illusion of security.
Next came climbing, and rappelling into a deep cenote - I bowed out of this one, though both children zoomed up and down. It was VERY high up, more than I could endure.
The two separate cenotes were my highlight. Goggles are provided. The first was so dark, with stalagtites growing down. There were electric lights, too, and a dock of sorts. We had to wear life vests for this one, regardless of swimming abilities. There were small sucker fish of some sort. My son and I liked this one best - I liked the warm water, and the dark. He loved that it's in a cave.
The second cenote was more open - not dark at all. A ton of fish, all small. Tons of mosquitos at the entrance, plus a platform to dive from. My daughter preferred this cenote, because of the diving platform.
Lunch was delicious, chicken or pork tacos. My daughter ended up eating a plate of white rice, which there was no problem with.
Then another 25-minute ATV back to the parking area. I didn't even have to ask: my children were driven, while I sat in the little jungle bus.
$50 USD for great pictures, at the end. The photographer went out of his way to snap pictures of my kids - always appreciated, as it's difficult to do while chasing after them. He takes PayPal, a bonus since I'd used up my last cash on the ATV ride.
We really had a great 4 hours. My children say today was the most fun they've had this...
Read moreDuring my recent trip to Tulum, I had the incredible opportunity to explore Selva Maya, and it was an experience that surpassed all my expectations. Right from the start, our guide Gael, along with the rest of the team, made us feel welcome and ensured we had a memorable adventure.
Selva Maya is a gem for anyone looking to experience the essence of Tulum in one place. The highlight for me was the blend of thrilling activities and natural beauty that this place offers. From ziplining through the jungle to swimming in the stunning cave cenotes, every moment was filled with excitement and awe.
A delightful surprise was the inclusion of a taco lunch, which was delicious and provided a perfect break between activities. However, it's important to note that while many activities are included, the ATVs are an additional cost. At $40 per couple, I highly recommend it as it added an extra layer of adventure to our day.
For those planning to dive into the cenote exploration, I suggest bringing an underwater light and a waterproof case for your phone. These small additions will greatly enhance your experience, allowing you to capture the beauty of the underwater world. While goggles are provided, snorkels are not available due to Covid precautions, so bringing your own is a good idea.
In conclusion, Selva Maya with guide Gael and the team is an absolute must-visit when in Tulum. Their efficiency, friendliness, and the sheer variety of experiences make it a unique adventure. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just looking to explore the natural wonders of Tulum, Selva Maya offers something for everyone. Don't miss out on this...
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