Mérida, Yucatán — As part of the commitment of the Government of the Maya Renaissance, led by Joaquín Díaz Mena, the Secretariat of Tourism Development of Yucatán (SEFOTUR) has promoted projects that position the state as an international benchmark in community-based and sustainable tourism. During a press conference, officials announced the recognition awarded to two local initiatives:
- Aldea Maya Xa’ Anil Naj in Santa Elena, which won the Silver Award in the Responsible Tourism Awards by WTM Latin America in the category "Best Indigenous and Community Tourism Initiatives."
- Ejido San Crisanto A.C. in Sinanché, which received the Green Destination Story Awards in the "Nature and Landscape" category.
Aldea Maya Xa’ Anil Naj: Living Culture and Authentic Experience
The WTM Latin America award was received on April 15 by Gladys Collí Ek in São Paulo, Brazil. Xa’ Anil Naj stands out for offering an immersive and authentic experience in Yucatecan gastronomy and traditions, guided by community residents. The recognition came after the project was selected as one of 22 finalists among 164 initiatives from 14 countries.
The project received support from the Yucatecan Institute of Entrepreneurs (IYEM) and Aeroméxico for its international presentation.
Ejido San Crisanto: Biodiversity and Green Economy
The second award was received on March 4 by José Inés Loría Palma at the ITB Berlin 2025 trade fair, placing San Crisanto among the Top 100 global stories in sustainable tourism.
The ejido has become a model for balancing conservation and development by integrating ancestral Mayan knowledge with innovative practices. Its natural wealth and biodiversity position it as an ecological paradise, where mangroves, wetlands, and wildlife are the main attractions. Additionally, the ejido participates in the carbon market by selling credits derived from its reforestation and mangrove conservation efforts, ensuring sustainable income for the community.
Recognition for Positive Community Impact
During the press conference, led by Darío Flota Ocampo, head of SEFOTUR, and Raúl Paz Noriega, Undersecretary of Sustainable Tourism Development, officials emphasized that these projects "are a source of pride for Yucatán."
"Promoting initiatives that honor our culture and protect nature is our mission. These awards reflect the talent and commitment of our communities," said Flota Ocampo.
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