Calakmul is the most controversial section of the Mayan Train route, in this episode we explain why this project is so much debated. Remember that you do not need to wait until the Mayan Train is in operation, this route can be traveled by road and in this series we will explain how to do it, what to do and what to see in each station.
-The Mayan Train in Campeche: Escárcega and Calakmul
Following the Tenosique road, we arrive at Escárcega in Campeche, whose railroad and old railway station is going to be used for the Mayan Train, currently it is busy transporting cargo and it is divided into two roads: one that goes to the north that yes it has a track and its route will be through the "Gulf Section" and in the other section it will have to be built using the path of the high voltage antennas that run along the Escárcega-Chetumal highway crossing the Biosphere Reserve of Calakmul and thus cross the "Section Selva".
This section is the most controversial because in Calakmul there are no train tracks that can be used as in the stations of Tenosique and Palenque; the fear of many Mexicans, environmentalists and ecologists is the damage that could be done to this natural area so enriched and important for Mexico.
-What to expect from the Mayan Train in this section
In Escárcega people are excited and anxious with the arrival of the Mayan Train because they see a job opportunity that at the moment is not enough in this area. And this station will be a starting point for those who want to know the "Section Selva" or the "Gulf Section".
And as for Calakmul, more tourists will be interested in visiting the archaeological zone in case the train shortens the time to get there. It is expected that the Mayan Train passing through this area will not commit an ecocide and the flora and fauna of the place will be respected.
-Where to stay in Calakmul or Escárcega
We stayed in Escárcega in Hotel Yaakunah, very simple with basic services, only to spend the night and leave very early for Calakmul, if you want to stay there visit bit.ly/Yaakunah-Escarcega
If you would like to camp in the jungle, or want other lodging options visit our blog: viajefest.com/calakmul
-What to do in Calakmul
Visit the Archaeological Zone of Calakmul, one of the most important Mayan cities of this culture. Remember to arrive early because the road is long, irregular and it takes one to get an hour and a half approximately from the entrance of the ejido to the entrance of the archaeological zone.
It is a very large area, it will take about 4 hours to travel, it has enough battery to take many photos and respects the flora and fauna. In the area it is common to see and hear the howler monkeys, birds, and if you are lucky you might even see a jaguar walking through the jungle.
Costs:
Entrance to the ejido per person: $ 50 pesos MXN
Entrance to the archaeological zone: $ 72 pesos MXN
Recommendations:
-He has enough water and food, they do not sell anything there
-No cell phone signal, no internet
-Money in cash, there are no ATMs
-Comfortable shoe, no heels
- Hat / cap, mosquito repellent and sunscreen
-How to get to Calakmul
You can reach Calakmul from the city of Campeche, Chetumal, Bacalar, Escárcega and Palenque. The nearest town of Calakmul is Xpujil and buses arrive from the aforementioned points. From there you can take public transport to the Archaeological Zone. More information at: viajefest.com/calakmul
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See you on the way!