Mexico

MEXICO officially the United Mexican States, is a country in the southern portion of North America. Mexico is known for its rich culture, ancient ruins, breathtaking beaches, and incredible cuisine. Furthermore, Mexico is home to a wide variety of BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY across coastlines, rainforests, farms, parks and so much more

Not sure where to go?

Explore the options for a responsible trip

GOOD PLACES TO VISIT

Explore destinations that were certified for their sustainability efforts

São Miguel do Gostoso

Tibal do Sul

GOOD TRAVEL BUSINESSES

Discover accommodations, restaurants, shops and activities that are committed to sustainability. Their efforts are summarised in a SCORECARD (click on the picture). For the Good Travel Seal, the higher the number of stars or the level (level 3 is the highest), the more aspects of sustainability are checked by an independent auditor.

Accommodations
Restaurants
Activities
Others

Centro Holístico Akalki

Good Travel Seal Level 2

Akalki Holistic Center is an Oasis nestled in front of the Seven Colors Lagoon in Bacalar Q.Roo Mexico. It is the perfect place to reconnect with your essence, both spiritually and physically. Akalki emerges from the need for a space where humans can harmoniously coexist with nature, fostering greater awareness of self-care and the environment. We seek to heal the body, mind, and spirit through the various therapies we offer in this sanctuary.

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Eco Hotel Casa Lamat

Good Travel Seal Level 2

Eco Hotel Casa Lamat, offers you a unique experience of rest, coexistence, awakening and adventure on the shores of the beautiful Bacalar Lagoon of the 7 colors. Casa Lamat connects you with Nature, Ecotourism, Healthy Food, Holistic Programs, Loving People, Sustainable Practices and Social Responsibility... You will love it, come soon! Casa Lamat is a place where you can join and participate in Social Service and Earth Care projects.

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Sadhu Blissful Living

Good Travel Scan

As a spiritual epicenter of the West, in SADHU, we will live in commitment to the evolution of the self. Our doors are open to welcome people from all over the world in search of peace, harmony, natural beauty, and inner transformation. It will be a magical space that, being built in the midst of the rainforest, will have a strong sense of unity and community.

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Soul Beach Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa

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Hotel in the heart of Playa del Carmen, just a few steps from the famous Fifth Avenue and two blocks from Mamitas Beach. Let yourself be pampered at the best boutique hotel in Playa del Carmen, surrounded by its wonderful spa, excellent cuisine, and the best location.

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Puerto Libre Hotel

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The ideal place in Cozumel to give you privacy, comfort and a stunning sunset views. Here you can rest and replenish after a day full of wonderful activities. Our facilities are perfect for either vacation rental or long term stay.

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Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres

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This resort sits on the ivory sands of the secluded Costa Mujeres, Mexico, framed by azure skies and the Caribbean Sea. Ideal for vacationers seeking a blend of sleek sophistication and modern luxury, Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres has impressive amenities for a delightful all-inclusive escape. Dine in style at 7 restaurants, sip your favorite drinks and cocktails at 13 bars, find zen at Blossom Spa featuring a hydrotherapy circuit and traditional Yucatan cenote, and dip into refreshing pools throughout the property.

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Catalonia Grand Costa Mujeres All Suites & Spa

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At Catalonia Grand Costa Mujeres All Suites & Spa we are committed to solid and hazardous waste management. We use environmental friendly products and reduce energy consumption through green technologies.

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Hotel Quinta Las Flores

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Hotel Quinta Las Flores has a local style with modern amenities and offers a unique experience. During your stay, you will feel pampered by the hotel hosts, always eager to make your experience memorable. Upon entering the hotel, you will immerse yourself in an atmosphere of serenity, surrounded by lush gardens where you can relax and enjoy nature.

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Hotel Boutique Kinta Kan

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Welcome to Kinta Kan Hotel Boutique, a place where you can rest with an elegant, relaxed and Caribbean atmosphere. We are located in the most popular area of Playa del Carmen: the famous Fifth Avenue. Just a few steps from the best restaurants, bars, nightclubs, churches, the city center and the bus terminal that takes you to Tulum, Holbox, Cancun Airport and Merida. Also close to the ferry to Cozumel, a beautiful Caribbean island where two hotel partners are located.

PROMO CODE: KKGREEN

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Centro Ecoturistico Zazil-Há

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In the Zazil-Há ecotourism center we offer experiences with nature, where you can observe the flora and fauna of our natural protected area "Laguna de Términos", by observing the great variety of birds, the bottlenose dolphin in its natural habitat and the different mangroves that are the lungs of the world, will feel connected with nature in our boat and kayak tours. You will enjoy our sunsets and unique beaches where with the sea breeze you will feel relaxed and at peace.

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Planet Hollywood Cancun

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Planet Hollywood Cancun is located just 30 minutes outside the hustle and bustle of downtown Cancun. It is the perfect beachfront vacation complex situated on the pristine beach of Costa Mujeres, Quintana Roo surrounded by lush biodiversity and turquoise shaded waters. The resorts feature Hollywood memorabilia, themed experiences, a star-worthy spa, and a variety of all-inclusive dining venues and bars, transforming the everyday all-inclusive vacation into a fascinating getaway for families and adults.

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Makaaba Hotel Eco Boutique

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Discover Makaabá, a hotel infused with the essence of Bacalar! A sustainable design featuring a rainwater harvesting roof and an eco-friendly pool surrounded by aquatic gardens that serve as natural filters to keep the water clean. The TEVAP system recycles and evaporates 100% of wastewater using plants like bananas to treat and produce fresh ingredients for our restaurant. Kitchen organic waste is transformed into compost to enrich our garden, where we cultivate ingredients that inspire our organic and ancestral cuisine.

PROMO CODE: Begreen

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Quinta Margarita Boho Chic Hotel

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Quinta Margarita Boho Chic Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Playa del Carmen. It offers elegant and comfortable rooms with a Boho Chic style that combines comfort, luxury, and environmental respect.

PROMO CODE: GREEN1

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Ikarus Kite and Nature Resort

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Located in the Chacmuchuch Lagoon, and 1 km from the Isla Blanca public beach, Ikarus is a small resort that was born thanks to kitesurfing. It is a place just 30 minutes away from Cancun, with a very relaxed energy. Surrounded by nature, is an ideal place for practicing yoga, kitesurfing (from November to May), fishing, (permit, bonefish, tarpon, snook) bird watching (flamingos, larks, herons, frigates, great kiskadees, ospreys, etc.), SUP, or simply relaxing and enjoying the incredible sunsets.

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Clementina Café

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We are a cafe and restaurant where you can spend a pleasant time enjoying high-quality food and beverages. We offer a menu featuring breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as a wide variety of freshly baked pastries and fine pastries. Our selection includes both cold and hot drinks to complement your dining experience.

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Sustainability

Sustainability in Mexico is an evolving journey driven by a commitment to protect its rich natural resources and cultural heritage. The country has made significant steps in renewable energy, with a growing emphasis on wind and solar power. Mexico’s expansive coastlines are home to marine conservation efforts and initiatives like the “Pueblos Mágicos” (Magical Towns) program promoting sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. In agriculture, sustainable practices such as organic farming are gaining momentum. Challenges remain, including environmental issues like deforestation and pollution, but Mexico’s dedication to sustainability is evident in its ongoing efforts to balance development with environmental stewardship.

GOOD PRACTICE STORIES

Get inspired with stories from places and people that are acting for a fair and responsible tourism

Bacalar

The Mexican Caribbean, on the Quintana Roo state coast, has been for more than 5 decades, the massive tourism hub of Latin America. Currently, Quintana Roo is turning its history around, and is seriously searching for mechanisms to diminish the social, economic and psychological gaps between its residents, therefore creating the conditions for a shared prosperity. Today, Bacalar, in the south of the state, is at a critical turning point in its history: finding a balance between tourism activity and the fragile health of its lagoon ecosystem. The lagoon ecosystem of that “”Magical seven colored lagoon [as it is internationally known], has a social ecosystem of vibrant citizens, businessmen and authorities with a great commitment to the common good and a shared vision: To recover the bio-physical and chemical condition of the water. KNOW THEIR STORY

Costa Mujeres

Currently, Quintana Roo is turning its history around, and is seriously searching for mechanisms to diminish the social, economic and psychological gaps between its residents, therefore creating the conditions for a shared prosperity. Today, Costa Mujeres is an example of lessons learned, a new model of respectful coexistence with the protected area of the Mexican Caribbean Biosphere Reserve, which surrounds Costa Mujeres on its coastline at the front and the lagoon at its back. This new model responds to the regulations established in the municipality of Isla Mujeres, as it is the mainland part of the municipality and it was clear, a few decades ago, that this would be a renovated corner of Quintana Roo. KNOW THEIR STORY

Cozumel Island

Cozumel is the third largest island in Mexico and the second most populated in the country. Their effort towards sustainabiltity are based on the continuos damage caused by climate change. With the help of some local association for natural conservation the whole island is been activated towards the same goal. KNOW THEIR STORY

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a popular tourist destinations with a rich eco-system, both land and underwater. The local administration started collaborations with associations and local business owned by women (natural resources experts and scientist) to create new business opportunities (eco tours) while protecting the natural environment KNOW THEIR STORY

Tourism & People

Tourism in Mexico is a vibrant tapestry of cultural richness and natural beauty. Visitors are drawn to its world-class beaches, historic sites like Chichen Itza, and vibrant cities like Mexico City. The Mexican people, known for their warm hospitality, welcome travelers with open arms, making it easy to immerse oneself in local traditions and festivals, such as Dia de los Muertos. The cuisine is a delight, with tasteful dishes like tacos and tamales . Whether exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on pristine shores, or sharing in the colorful traditions, Mexico offers a diverse and captivating travel experience.

Travel tips from our editors

Getting around

The country has an extensive and affordable bus network connecting cities and towns, making it a popular choice for long-distance travel. Exploring rural areas may require colectivos (shared minibusses) or rental cars, although road conditions can vary. Mexico’s well-marked highways make self-driving a viable option, but travelers should be aware of local traffic customs.

"Pueblos Mágicos"

The Mexican “Pueblos Mágicos” programme is a tourism initiative that designates towns with a high cultural, historical and natural value as special destinations. These places receive support to develop their tourism infrastructure, preserve traditions and promote cultural activities. The programme boosts tourism in lesser-known destinations, fosters local development and offers visitors an authentic experience of Mexican culture

Nature & Wildlife

Nature and wildlife in Mexico are a testament to the country’s ecological diversity. Mexico boasts a wide range of ecosystems, from lush rainforests in Chiapas to arid deserts in Baja California. This biodiversity is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife, including jaguars, monarch butterflies, marine turtles, and vibrant bird species like the resplendent quetzal. The country’s numerous protected areas, such as the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, play a crucial role in preserving these unique habitats and species. Mexico’s natural wonders, including cenotes, volcanoes, and coral reefs, offer opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts to connect with the country’s landscapes and fauna.

Sustainability Recognitions

Brazil has 9 destinations featured in the Top 100 Sustainable Destinations 2021.

Other sustainability certifications can be seen here (English) and here (Portuguese).

Fernanda Rodak | Page Editor

“Brazil is a worldwide known hotspot for biodiversity as well as home to a multitude of cultural expressions. The natural and cultural heritage and immense variety of tourism experiences in the country are valuable assets for its competitiveness. Yet, as we envision a post Covid-19 era, sustainability in tourism becomes crucial to build resilience and guarantee the long-lasting health of Brazil’s ecosystems and well-being of the hosting communities. This would also ensure an active contribution of the country’s tourism sector to the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Country Partner

At RivieraMayaSostenible, we understand that sustainability is an allotropic form of love. It’s like TAKING A BREAK ON THE WAY and recognizing ourselves from what makes us unique, identifying our opportunities, and defining with whom we want to share in the perfect balance of HUMANISM, SCIENCE, and TECHNOLOGY.

Our proposal is to make sustainability a path of REVALUATION OF LOCAL IDENTITY, including all sectors: society, authorities, entrepreneurs, academia, and, very importantly, biodiversity, natural, cultural, and social capital, through CERTIFICATION. Ultimately, this allows us to base marketing and promotion on UNIQUE VALUES AND GOOD PRACTICES.

Contact us at: beatriz@rivieramayasostenible.org