Rancho Punta Venado

Rancho Punta Venado is at Mex. 307 Km marker 278 (on the e. side of the highway), s. of Xcaret and about a 10-minute drive s. of Playa del Carmen. This large, rustic working ranch is also a tourist-oriented eco-park with more than 2 miles of uninterrupted coastline. The main activity is a guided horseback riding excursion through tropical scrub jungle and along a stretch of unspoiled beach. If you have riding experience be sure to mention it; you'll go with a different guide on a spirited horse and have more of an adventure.

Other activities include Waverunner and jet-ski rides, ATV rides through a jungle habitat, a walk through a cavern system followed by an ATV ride to a cenote for swimming, and snorkeling at a nearby protected reef. And if you just feel like kicking back on a chaise lounge shaded by a palapa, there's also a beach club on the premises.

Fees are discounted if tickets are booked online. Age and weight restrictions apply for some activities.

Guided tours are available. Food is available. Time: Allow 4 hours minimum.