Instead of sticking to the island of Cozumel, we opted for a bit of adventure and crossed over to mainland Mexico, aiming for Xcarat Park. A tropical storm greeted us upon disembarkation, soaking us to the skin. The ferry ride over was a battle to dry off, but the relentless heat of the Yucatan welcomed us on the other side, the storm a mere memory.
The park greeted us with a unique sight: a dome brimming with newly hatched quail, their tiny voices a chorus of "peep peep." My son was utterly enchanted, mimicking their calls.
Our journey led us along the white path of a recreated Mayan Village, ascending 52 steps to an extraordinary Mexican cemetery. Perched on a seven-tiered hill, it boasted 365 of the most creative tombstones, each more elaborate than the last. One even sported a bottle-top decor. The candlelit cave beneath was a hit with my son.
The aviary showcased a thousand birds amid waterfalls and lush greenery. Our conversations echoed through parabolic loudspeakers. Vivid macaws and flamingos delighted us until the heat dimmed our exploratory zeal.
Caving to the day's intensity, we embraced the cool embrace of an underground river. The shock of the cool water was a welcome respite, and the serene swim took us beneath mangroves and Mayan ruins, through cenotes, and past a stunning stained-glass butterfly that marked the cave's entrance.
