During our first trip to Yucatán, we completely missed out on a visit to Sian Ka’an. We didn’t make the same mistake during our second stay near Tulum! This protected area, a natural gem and UNESCO World Heritage site spanning over 1.3 million acres, is a must-see for nature lovers like us. It was such a fun day trip experience!
Sian Ka’an, which means “origin of the sky” in Mayan, is a sanctuary for exceptional wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, manatees, and over 300 species of birds. Only a small portion is accessible to visitors, ensuring large areas remain peaceful for the flora and fauna.
Sian Ka’an Reserve in Quintana Roo, Mexico: two sites to visit
Choosing between Muyil and Punta Allen in the Sian Ka’an Reserve depends on the experience you’re looking for, as each offers something unique.
- Muyil is perfect for those who want to combine history and nature, with its tranquil Mayan ruins and peaceful boat ride on a lagoon. It’s easily accessible from Tulum.
- Punta Allen (Port Allen) offers a wilder and more authentic experience, with a small fishing village, marine life excursions and secluded beaches. It’s ideal for adventurers seeking peace and quiet away from the crowds, but it takes more time.
Day trip to Sian Ka’an: Muyil, a mix of archaeology and unique experience
The village of Muyil, about 20 minutes south of Tulum, is an excellent gateway to the Sian Ka’an Sanctuary. The visit begins with an exploration of the ancient mayans Muyil archaeological site. While these ruins lack the grandeur of those at Coba or Chichen Itza, they are beautifully set in dense jungle where monkeys thrive.
Howler monkeys soon make their presence known from a towering tree, their calls revealing their location to our delight.
After this historic immersion, a discreet trail winds through the forest and leads to wetlands via wooden walkways. This is the habitat of spider monkeys, recognisable by their long, slender arms, and tapirs. A lookout tower offers spectacular views of the forest canopy and Muyil Lagoon. The adventure continues with a boat ride through the nangrove forests, where many birds, including ospreys, nest.
The experience concludes with a peaceful float down a natural canal where, equipped with life jackets, visitors can be carried along by the current and fully immerse themselves in this fascinating ecosystem.
On the way back to Tulum, a stop at the Ka’an Luum lagoon is highly recommended. With its shallow, pastel green waters, this paradise invites you to relax and swim in an idyllic setting.
Sian Ka’an tour: Punta Allen, crocodiles, dolphins and more
Much of the Sian Ka’an Reserve is marine and visitor access is concentrated around Punta Allen, an isolated village at the tip of a narrow 42km peninsula. The route, bordered by the sea on one side and a lagoon on the other, offers surprising encounters with local wildlife, including coati, crocodiles and, with a bit of luck, a jaguar. A wide variety of species (herons, pelicans, spoonbills, etc.) can be seen throughout the trip. As the boat slowly approaches, we can admire frigatebirds displaying their red throats to attract females.
The journey continues offshore, where curious dolphins and giant sea turtles make their appearance. With a bit of luck, the dolphins will come close to us and later two giant turtles will take their turn. It’s important to stay alert as their resurfacing time is short as they can stay underwater for a long time without coming up for air.
The highlight of the trip is snorkelling over the world’s second largest coral reef. A must if you want to experience the full extent of Sian Ka’an’s biodiversity! A myriad of colourful fish play hide and seek in this underwater forest.
The day ends on a high note with a swim in a natural pool near Punta Allen and lunch in the village, which has retained its authentic charm and peaceful atmosphere due to its inaccessibility.
Our tips for visiting the Sian Ka’an biosphere in Yucatan
Is Sian Ka’an worth it?
Indeed Sian Ka’an is definitely a special place worth it for those seeking an authentic connection with nature on this day trip. Out of the many compelling reasons, think:
- Diverse wildlife encounters in their natural habitat, including dolphins, monkeys and turtles
- Crystal-clear waters
- Unique boat tours through mangrove forests
- Historical insights with Mayan ruins
- Unmatched snorkeling at the barrier reef
When to visit Sian Ka’an?
The best time to visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is between November and March during the dry season. The weather is more pleasant, with less chance of rain, but it can be windier. For boating and snorkelling, the wet season may offer better conditions.
What to bring to Sian Ka’an?
The use of sunscreen is prohibited in Sian Ka’an National Park. Be sure to protect yourself from the sun with light clothing. A long-sleeved UV-protective shirt is also essential for snorkelling. Finally, if you’re prone to seasickness, take the usual precautions, especially during the boat trip around Punta Allen, as the sea conditions can be a little choppy.
How much time should I allow?
The two parts of the reserve to be visited are not in the same place. You should allow half a day for the Muyil excursion and a full day for the Punta Allen area.
How do you get to Sian Ka’an?
Although the site is close to Tulum, getting there is complicated due to its isolated location on a spit of land and limited access.
Fortunately, many tour operators offer day trips from Tulum’s hotel zones, the Riviera Maya and even Playa del Carmen, combining transport by car and then boat in small groups. Some even offer English-speaking guides and snorkelling equipment hire. It’s the easiest way!
All photo credits : Laura Le Guen
