Get to Know Mayan Lore and Stunning Views at Ya’ax Che Botanical Gardens

It’s possible that James Cameron found inspiration in the tree that lends its name to these botanical gardens to create the Tree of Souls for his film, Avatar. According to Mayan legend, the ceiba tree, which the Mayans called “Ya’ax Che”, grows from the very center of the world. Its roots reach down to the underworld, while its branches join the three levels of the Mayan Universe, giving a path to the heavens for the souls of the dead.

See all kinds of plants and animals

Located near Puerto Morelos, just south of Cancun, the Ya’ax Che botanical gardens (also called Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marin) are not only the largest in the state of Quintana Roo but in the whole country! And, if you’d like to see what kind of animals live in this part of the world, in its almost 150 acres of jungle, you’ll find over 220 species!

Keep your camera finger at the ready and take pictures of monkeys, deer, iguanas, and a wide variety of birds. You’ll also see the traditional medicinal plants the Mayans have used since ancient times.

See Ya’ax Che’s views and the history of chewing gum

Hopefully, you’re not afraid of heights, as you need to climb the tall lookout towers. It’ll be worth it, we promise—the view from the top, overlooking the jungle and reaching all the way out to the sea, is incredible!

Did you know this is where chewing gum comes from? In the Ya’ax Che botanical gardens, they’ve recreated a chiclero camp here. The chicleros were those who harvested the sap of the chicle tree (literally the modern Spanish word for “chewing gum”), boiled it, and transported it out from the jungle.

Keep in mind this place is not open all day. It closes at 4 p.m. on weekdays and 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Also, remember you’ll be walking through the jungle, so pack plenty of insect repellent, sunscreen, and water, and bring a comfortable pair of shoes.