Just returned yesterday from our excursion thru Mexico, including a trip and 5 day layover in Xcalac. We left Sudbury, Ontario (CYSB) on Jan. 29th in -30 C weather. Cleared US customs at Sanderson Field in Sault St. Marie MI.Flew down thru East Central and South Central states to jump off thru KHRL, Harlingen, TX into MMVR Veracruz MX.Cleared Mexican immigration processes there. Then on to MMTG, Tuxtla Gutierrez and San Cristobal region for a week.
Departed MMTG for Chetumal MMCM via Candelaria as waypoint to skirt around BELIZE Airspace. Landed at Chetumal to fuel and see if we could get permission to use the Xcalac airstrip, however the only one that was allowed at that time is the one at Mahahual (MHL)approx. 30 miles distant from XCA. Coordinated with Costa de Cocos where we had booked to stay, when we flew over the resort they would send a taxi to meet us at MHL. This cost about 450 pesos ($45.00) one way. We were greeted by the Mexican army upon landing at MHL who searched our A/C and luggage. This was the only place in Mexico that our A//C was searched in some detail. I actually think it was quite a big event for them as we were the only one's on the field. THe DGAC rep? was also there and helped to coordinate the activities. Once the inspections were complete we had lots of help to park, tie-down and haul luggage to the terminal building. We paid a 350 peso fee for landing/ tiedown to the DGAC type official and 400 pesos for parking to the Army group upon taking off 5 days later. I consider this cheap for lots of attention and custom security for your A/C. Spent 5 days at Xcalac mostly doing nothing, if you are a diver and/or a flat fishing type this is the predominant activity in this area. In my opinion probably not so good for young children that are not involved in the noted activities. Swimming areas and beaches are not as accessible due to restrictions of this being part of the biosphere reserve. There are boisphere, bird watching, and boat trips to Belize from that area if you are so inclined. This area is not the resort type destinations of the more northern areas of the Mayan Riviera, Accomadations are Rustic, hunting/fishing lodge style, Food is well prepared with a great variety of seafood. Caution the Large Pizza is just that- LARGE, Will feed 4 people adequately. For the most part this area is quite satisfying to visit if your expectations are modest. Met some great people here from the US and Canada and had quite the relaxing time. As for fuel stops and availability we had no problems obtaining any at Veracruz or Chetumal. Cost about $4.00 per US gal. MHL is only about a 30 minute flight from Chetumal. THe Mexican Army Form in the Caribean Skytour guide is of great assistance when dealing with any Mexican authourities, Army or otherwise, especially for those of us that do not speak a word of Spanish. Fill it out for each destination and hand it to the Army personel and it answers any and all of their questions. Go with the flow and enjoy, Remember its MEXICAN TIME.