When people mention Cancun, most people would think of the crystal blue waters and the long sandy white beaches as far as the eye can see. However there is a whole lot more to discover in Cancun and if you have the time, indulge in the pleasure of visiting the natural parks in Cancun which are preserved in its natural state magnificently. Be sure to list the parks as a must see destination in your Cancun travel plans

A Mayan port in the ancient culture was Tulam and still has the Mayan feel about it today, the Temple named El Castillo stands in protection of the ocean. You will be amazed by the sheer natural beauty of the points of Tulam as you observe the sea from lofty heights of this wondrous place.

Your next stop after Tulam should be Xel-Ha which is close to the Riviera Maya, you can partake in snorkeling and swimming here and have a relaxing time in this tranquil region of the coast. You can see a big floating long bridge inside the waters here as a natural draw card to the area.

From there; ease into the jungle scene for an adventure in Cancun at Sian Ka'an which is one of the largest natural reserves in all of Mexico. You can go hitchhiking to the tallest lookout tower or take a boat tour that will take you down through the canals in the reserve an towards the Mayan ruins. This is an area of rich history and has plenty to offer on the Mayan culture.

Once again you can go snorkeling and explore underground caves and cenotes, mineral deposits here are many centuries old and offer many hours of exploration. Many different types of birds reside here and they are friendly enough to come down and sit on your shoulder.

Thousands of pink flamingos call Rio Lagartos home at this wild refuge in Cancun. In April to August these magnificent birds form mud nests along the shallow shoreline. The park itself was built in 1979 and covers a huge tract of land of over 118,000 acres of all natural parkland's. This area is home to turtles, jaguars and over 200 different species of birds, a definite eco-tourism area which encases jungle, swamps and coastline. Garrafon National Reef Park

Make some time to wander along throughout Garafon after taking the boat cruise on to Isle Mujeres. This will keep you busy in itself for some time as there is much to see and do here. There exists here a Mayan temple at Blue Eyes caves and a panoramic tower and a bridge to climb up. You can see many parrots here and ride kayaks with a glass bottom view to delight in the views of the sea floor. Bungee jumping for the brave at heart and scuba diving for those who want to investigate the coral, Explore further the habitats of turtle and go swimming with dolphins are among some of the activities available to you here.

Be sure not to miss the Natural Park at Aktun Chen, there are caves here for you to explore that are estimated to be at least 5 million years old. These caves have rivers running through them and check out the wildlife living in the outside of the caves. Observe monkeys, wild boar, deer and many other different animals in their natural state.

If reptiles are your thing there is a large reptile park here to be visited with 15 different species of native snakes.

There is 988 acres of untouched wonderland to explore here and you will love the call of the monkeys echoing through the jungle.