With the expansion of eco-tourism, an influx of eco-resorts have made their way to the Caribbean shores. With so many options, finding the right one is key. Enter the all-inclusive Sandos Caracol; a jungle-meets beach Mayan hideaway perfect for travellers with green sensibilities who still enjoy elements of a traditional all-inclusive holiday. Thankfully, at Sandos Caracol going green no longer means roughing it!

The property is nestled on the edge of a lush jungle bursting with mangroves, cenotes and coral reefs on the white-sands of Mexico’s fabled Riviera Maya steps from Playa del Carmen. There are 956 rooms in 11 styles and 3 categories: Sanditos Family Section, Select Club (adults-only) and Royal Elite Ocean Front, which are spread across 78 buildings. My eco room was located in building 11 and offered ocean and pool views. It featured a queen size bed, a living room, two full ensuite bathrooms and a lovely terrace. The décor was simple, in keeping with the eco philosophy, though my room did not lack in any of the comforts or amenities I am accustomed to. I was part of the Select Club which came with direct access to a private beach area with loungers, private bar and snack area.  





After the land was purchased, Mayan ruins were discovered in the midst of the jungle, so instead of building along the beach most of the hotel was built into the jungle in order to protect this ancient Mayan settlement, using only 30% of the land to build on. Today, these sacred grounds can be visited by guests and serve as the site for the incredible Fire of Life ceremony that takes place every Saturday night. As I sat under a star filled sky, in the middle of the jungle, watching a Mayan Chaman and other villagers dance around open fires in their traditional attire, I felt myself transported to another time. It was an experience I won’t soon forget.





  


Kids will especially love this property! It houses an Aquapark with big slides and a Kids Club. But, what makes this resort truly unique for children is its ability to provide fun and interactive ways for them to acquire newfound knowledge and appreciation for plants, wildlife and ecosystems. The property is also home to many trails that can be explored on foot or on one of the many bicycles available free to all guests. Be sure to keep your camera handy though, because you never know when you will cross paths with a group of monkeys and other local wildlife that live freely and happily on the hotel grounds. The hotel employs a team of eco specialists, biologists and veterinarians who care for the surroundings, abundant animal life and the hotel’s onsite animal rescue. 



The property helps support many local communities and artists, so guests are invited to bring clothing, school supplies or other goods to donate. On Wednesday and Saturday night there is an open market where you will find locally handcrafted goods. I was taken aback by the incredible artists who would create incredible works of art right before my eyes.
    

The entire time I was there with my younger sister, who accompanied me on this trip, I wished my niece and nephew were there also because I know how much they would have loved Sandos Caracol and all the incredible experiences offered to guests both young and old. Visit www.sunwingvacations.com to book your stay!