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Riviera Maya-Puerto Aventuras Manatee Encounter

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Puerto Aventuras, Mexico
Water ActivitiesTheme Parks
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About this activity

Swim and interact directly with gentle manatees in their natural lagoon habitat within Puerto Aventuras, a purpose-built eco-conscious resort community in the Riviera Maya. This 2-hour encounter lets you feed, touch, and be embraced by these docile marine mammals in a setting designed to respect local wildlife.

Located in the Mexican Caribbean (Riviera Maya), Puerto Aventuras is a tourist development strategically planned to show respect and love for the tropical flora and fauna. They offer to their visitors and residents all the attractions and amenities of a small town in spite of its location in middle of the beautiful Yucatan’s Peninsula jungle.

This little town is located just 10 minutes away from Playa del Carmen and is famous for their gorgeous beaches, luxurious resorts and the largest full service marina in the vicinity. The smart design includes villas, bungalows, condominiums, golf courses, marina, gardens, exclusive boutiques, spa´s, churches and everything you’ll need during your stay.

Dolphin Discovery facilities are located in the heart of this complex, surrounded by a tropical green island with a natural lagoon; home of dolphins, sea lions and manatees. Around our facilities there’s a walkway where all the Puerto Aventuras visitors and residents can watch our beautiful species interact in their natural habitat.

Our manatees are very docile, gentle and always eager to meet new people. With the Manatee Encounter program, you are able to swim with these friendly marine mammals up close and personal.

The manatee will swim by you so you can caress it, then it will give you the biggest and most charming hug. In addition, you’ll be able to create an unforgettable bond when you get to feed our chubby friend. This will be undoubtedly a memorable experience for you and your family.

Come to Riviera Maya-Puerto Aventuras and live the experience of a lifetime!

Highlights

  • Hands-on swimming and physical contact with manatees
  • Feed the manatees and receive a signature manatee hug
  • Natural lagoon setting surrounded by tropical island landscape
  • Located within Dolphin Discovery facility in Puerto Aventuras marina complex
  • Small-group format for personalized interaction
  • Just 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen

Insider tips

  • Arrive early to secure the best photo spots around the lagoon walkway before the main encounter
  • Manatees are most active and interactive in calm morning sessions; afternoon encounters may be less lively
  • Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro—the up-close hugs and feeding moments are highly photogenic
  • Visit the adjacent dolphin and sea lion areas during your time at the facility to maximize your experience

Good to know

  • Duration: 2 hours total (includes briefing, water time, and photos)
  • Bring swimwear, towel, and water shoes for the natural lagoon environment
  • Facility is wheelchair-accessible via the perimeter walkway; in-water accessibility depends on mobility level—contact supplier ahead
  • Meeting point: Dolphin Discovery reception at Puerto Aventuras marina complex
  • Children welcome; parental supervision required for under-12s in water

Who it's for

Families seeking interactive wildlife experiences with young childrenMarine life enthusiasts and animal loversTravellers staying in Playa del Carmen wanting a short, high-impact excursionInstagram-focused travellers seeking unique water photography opportunities

Best time to visit

Early morning sessions (first group of the day) offer the most active manatee behaviour and fewer crowds. Visit during dry season (November–April) for clearer water and more comfortable conditions, though the lagoon is operational year-round.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€49
per person