If you are looking for something fun and amazing to do while in Riviera Maya, but you wish to do something different besides snorkel and swim with the dolphins, the place to go is definitely The Jungle Place located in Cheymuil (in between Akumal and Tulum). It is very easy to get to from Highway 307.
You will laugh the entire time and you will want to take them all home. You'll quickly find that each one has their own personality and Maya and Luna are really fun as they will swing from the box above and dive bomb you, only then to sit with you and play. You'll enjoy an experience like none other. It may turn out to be the highlight of your trip.
Heidi and Joel run the sanctuary. www.TheJunglePlace.com They accept visitors by appointment only. Guests are limited to 6 or 8 per day in one or two sessions so space is limited. This provides you with the best experience as well as protecting the babies from being overwhelmed. If you wish to visit, email Heidi to arrange an appointment. Upon confirmation Heidi will email you directions to the sanctuary. Heidi and Joel will graciously welcome you to their home and share their experience and story with you. They charge a $20pp ($30pp effective January 1, 2009) donation that goes directly to feeding and care of the babies.
After giving the background and basic rules (do's and don'ts) of the visit Joel will escort you into a huge area where you will have the opportunity to interact with the female monkeys. The males can be a bit aggressive, so they are separated during guest visits. Once inside Joel explains that you just sit down and enjoy. The monkeys are adorable, mischievious, and love to play. They're like little children and you will immediately see how Heidi and Joel just fell in love with the first and how their family grew to about 18.
This should be a must on your list as it truly is a once in a lifetime experience. They also rent out gorgeous rooms that overlook the monkeys. Here are some photos.


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