National Geographic Names Maya Ka’an a 2027 Top Destination

National Geographic has named Maya Ka’an in Quintana Roo, Mexico, as one of the best places to visit in 2027. 

The magazine included this region in its Best of the World 2027 list, which features 25 destinations across six continents. Maya Ka’an stands out because of its focus on community-based tourism, nature conservation, and authentic cultural experiences. Unlike nearby Tulum to the north and Bacalar to the south, Maya Ka’an offers a different way to travel.

A Different Kind of Tourism

Community tourism is a model in which local people own and manage travel businesses. In Maya Ka’an, this means visitors’ spending goes directly to the families who live there. 

The area brings together 78 local communities, 17 community tourism companies, 21 hotels, and more than 30 certified local guides. This approach differs sharply from the large hotel corridors found in other parts of Quintana Roo. Instead of massive resorts, visitors find small, locally run places to stay. 

This tourism model is to create economic benefits for locals while protecting their natural and cultural heritage. State officials, including Governor Mara Lezama, say this represents a new way to do tourism, making the original communities the main characters in their own development. For small business owners, this international recognition brings an opportunity to share their food, crafts, and nature tours with new travelers.

The People and the Culture

The true heart of Maya Ka’an is the living Maya culture. The 78 original communities in the region still hold on to their ancestral knowledge. They use this knowledge to create unique visitor experiences. 

Travelers don’t just see landscapes; they learn about people’s daily lives. Local inhabitants organize tours and teach visitors about their traditional trades. For example, in the town of X-Pichil, visitors can take workshops to learn traditional embroidery. This helps preserve the community’s skills and provides income. Traditional food is another important part of the visit. 

Travelers can eat meals prepared by local cooks using recipes that have been passed down through families for many years. Every activity is designed to let visitors interact directly with the people who call this region home.

Nature and Attractions

Nature plays a major role in Maya Ka’an’s appeal. The destination is located south of the Riviera Maya and is connected to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. This reserve is one of the area’s main natural attractions. 

Visitors can explore thick jungles, lagoons, and diverse wildlife. Local guides, who know the best paths and respect the environment, lead these tours. Another popular spot is the Much Kanan K’aax Reserve. In this reserve, tourists can climb a wooden observation tower for views of the lagoon. They can also listen to howler monkeys moving through the trees. The activities focus on enjoying the environment without harming it. This balance helps ensure the region’s natural beauty remains intact for future generations.

History and Preserving the Past

The region’s history is deeply tied to the ancient Maya civilization and sites like Muyil, but Maya Ka’an focuses on the Maya people today. The communities here have survived centuries of change by protecting their language, customs, and relationship with the land. Historically, the central and southern parts of Quintana Roo were isolated from the big tourist developments. This isolation helped preserve their traditions. 

Now, the communities use tourism to share their history on their own terms. They teach visitors how their ancestors lived in harmony with the environment. This educational approach means that tourists leave with a better understanding of the Maya culture.