GORP - Dive Mexico's Barrier Reef - Chinchorro Bank

from Away.com

Related Guides

Popular Cities in Mexico


	Find an Adventure
	An Insider's View


	Mexico Resources
	GORPtravel


	Summer's Top Parks
	Summer Mountain Festivals
	Beach Travel Blog
	Parks and Outdoors Guide
	2008 Summer Buyer's Guide from Outside Online

DESTINATIONS

Dive Mexico's
Barrier Reef
By Ron Mader

	Visit Mexico

You want coral? How about the largest coral-ringed lagoon in the world? The Chinchorro Bank, at 29 miles long by 9 miles wide, fits the bill. Diving amid this diverse bracelet of coral is an unforgettable experience. The reefs enclose four distinct cays and are just 19 miles (about a two-hour boat ride) offshore from Xcalak.

If the coral isn't enough of a lure, then go for the shipwrecks: The barrier reef has claimed some 20 ships over the centuries; all are now covered with colonies of coral, and the horizon is littered with the silhouettes of these vessels. Divers and underwater photographers, this is your dream-come-true locale. Camp on the beach or you can stay in the hotels in nearby Mahahual or Xcalak.

Trip Facts
Difficulty rating: Moderate
When to go: Year-round