Cancún and the state of Quintana Roo are redefining tourism through sustainability. From protected marine parks and kayaking in natural lagoons to community-based Maya projects and eco-certified hotels, this guide invites you to discover responsible tourism aligned with biodiversity protection and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The city of Cancún, located in the state of Quintana Roo in Mexico, is a world-renowned tourist destination, especially known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and rich biodiversity. According to data from the Secretariat of Tourism, over twenty million tourists visited last year, 2024. If you want to escape crowded places, here are five sustainable plans to enjoy the city of Cancun and the state of Quintana Roo.
Dive in the Puerto Morelos reef national park.
In the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park, you can observe marine biodiversity without harming the ecosystem, as it is a protected area. It is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, making it the ideal place for diving and other activities like snorkeling. The tours offered by the park are carefully designed to minimize environmental impact as much as possible and educate visitors about the importance of marine life conservation.
Visit isla Contoy.
This island is an authentic bird sanctuary and a good example of marine conservation. The tours offered are regulated to manage environmental impact, as well as support and protect local wildlife. Therefore, only a limited number of guided tourists are allowed per day, helping to preserve a unique ecosystem.
Kayak in the Nichupté lagoon.
The Nichupté Lagoon is a system of interconnected lagoons that host a wide variety of flora and fauna. Opting for kayak rides instead of motorboats will allow you to have a more peaceful experience closer to nature, ideal for observing birds and other animals in their natural habitat.
Discover the Maya Ka’an project.
Learn all about Mayan culture through this community tourism project promoted and developed by the government of Quintana Roo. Maya Ka’an offers an authentic and educational experience where you can learn about traditional agricultural practices, herbal medicine, and the history of the Mayan civilization.
Turtle watching in Akumal.
Akumal is known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. The tours are designed in such a way that you can observe the turtles present there without invading their personal space, ensuring that their behavior is not interfered with.
Where to stay.
We recommend three Ocean hotels from the H10 Hotels Group that have the Biosphere Certified distinction to make your stay as comfortable and sustainable as possible.
>> Ocean Maya Royale.
This hotel, located in Playa del Carmen, offers a variety of exclusive services for adults, including the Despacio Spa Centre, themed restaurants, and recreational activities such as cooking classes or water sports. Ocean Maya Royale also efficiently manages water and promotes local products.
>> Ocean Coral & Turquesa.
Located in Puerto Morelos, Ocean Coral & Turquesa offers ten themed restaurants, a diving center, and privilege service, which includes exclusive rooms and other benefits.
>> Ocean Riviera Paradise.
Finally, this resort, located in Playa del Carmen, has five pools, a theater, a bowling alley, and a wide range of entertainment for the whole family.
Mexico's commitment to sustainable tourism.
México is promoting sustainable tourism through collaborations with international organizations and sector experts. The Secretariat of Tourism of México has organized workshops and events to foster a more inclusive tourism model, ensuring a positive impact on the environment and local communities.
On this path toward transformation, Biosphere and the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI) are confident in welcoming more destinations, accommodations, and sector companies into our community—those committed to adopting verifiable and measurable practices that integrate environmental, sociocultural, and economic sustainability in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Biosphere certification has become a key tool enabling tourism entities, such as those in México, to progress confidently toward more ethical, resilient, and regenerative models. It's not just about enhancing the traveler's experience but about solidifying a tourism sector that acts as a driver of sustainable development, valuing the country's unique biodiversity, strengthening local cultures, and creating equitable economic opportunities.
México, with its vast natural, cultural, and human wealth, has the potential to lead this new era of responsible tourism in Latin America. Expectations are high, and the opportunities are immense. Embracing sustainability is no longer optional; it is a real competitive advantage that allows the country to build a more just, inclusive, and globally aligned tourism future.
Toward more conscious tourism in Mexico.
Discovering Cancún and Quintana Roo through a sustainable lens also means rediscovering the true value of travel. Beyond sun and beach, responsible tourism opens doors to transformative experiences, in direct contact with nature, living cultures, and local knowledge.
Mexico is strategically positioned to lead the shift toward more conscious, inclusive, and regenerative tourism. Thanks to initiatives that integrate sustainability at their core, such as those promoted by the Responsible Tourism Institute and the Biosphere certification, more destinations and companies are demonstrating that growth is possible while caring for our surroundings.
Traveling sustainably is not a passing trend; it is a commitment to the present and future of our communities, ecosystems, and generations. On this journey, every decision matters, and every traveler can be part of the solution.
Ultimately, Cancún and the state of Quintana Roo today represent a unique opportunity to experience tourism as a tool for positive change, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Because true luxury lies in traveling while leaving a positive footprint.
