Sandos Caracol Eco-Resort & Spa has become a leader in eco-tourism in Mexico. In 2011, the eco-resort continued its leadership in the sustainability trend in Mexico when it introduced 99 eco-friendly rooms that reduce carbon emissions by 70% and it became the first resort in Mexico to develop, build and utilize a ‘solar’ golf cart. The eco-rooms include ultra-efficient low energy air conditioning systems, solar water heating systems in place of gas water heaters, water recycling systems, internal LED lighting, and furniture made of wood from certified forests.

Sandos Caracol’s completely solar energy-powered golf cart was developed and built specifically to transport guests around the resort. With six solar panels, the solar energy transformed to run the golf cart prevents the emission of 1,686 tons of carbon dioxide per year and is equivalent to having planted 34 trees.

In December 2011, the resort will launch “Xcalacoco Experience,” allowing guests to discover the Mayan culture in distinctive, natural surroundings. At Sandos Caracol, Xcalacoco is a way of being, living and thinking, and the programming in the Xcalacoco Experience allows guests to live Xcalacoco. Activities include an eco tour and archaeology route on which guests can observe Mayan ruins, witness Mayan ceremonies, visit with a Mayan herbalist, help plant indigenous species significant to the Mayan culture, and participate in natural treatments and ancient rituals at the spa. Through adventures in nature and environmental activities, guests will learn to reconnect with nature, respect the planet and lead sustainable lives.

Through its Eco-Club, Sandos Caracol features eco-tours of the resort for both adults and children highlighting local flora and fauna, and indigenous species to the area, eco-friendly volunteer experiences such as sea turtle conservation, recycling and visiting with many of the animals cared for by the on-site veterinarian of the property—including a family of donkeys, Mayan honeybees, and tropical birds.

Guests also have the opportunity to visit the NASA-developed Magic Planet Experience, the first-of-its-kind interactive digital experience that teaches guests about the solar system, their responsibility in climate change and what they can do to protect the earth.

Sandos Hotels & Resort, www.sandos.com