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Nature reserve · Tulum, Quintana Roo
Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka'an
Biosphere reserve south of Tulum, a UNESCO site, with lagoons, mangroves, jungle, beaches and reef, visited on boat tours from Tulum and Muyil.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka'an
Sian Ka'an begins a few kilometers south of Tulum’s beach area and extends over more than 5,000 km² of jungle, seasonally flooded savannas, mangroves, lagoons, beaches and coral reef. It was designated a biosphere reserve in 1986 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The name, in Maya, is commonly translated as "origin of the sky."
The reserve protects a mosaic of habitats home to crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, sea turtles and hundreds of bird species such as herons, spoonbills and frigatebirds. On the coast, the dirt road that enters through the gate continues to the fishing village of Punta Allen, about 50 km from Tulum.
The most common visit is by boat, with guides from local cooperatives. From Muyil, on the reserve's western side, boats cross lagoons and a canal dug by the ancient Maya, where visitors float down the current with life jackets. Along the coast, tours travel the Bay of Ascension and the mangroves, stopping for snorkeling and bird and dolphin watching.
Entrance to the reserve requires a fee and there are rules for moving through the protected area. Wildlife is free, and species seen vary from trip to trip.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From half a day to a full day, depending on the tour.
Best time
From December to April, in the dry season, the dirt road is usually in better condition and the sea calmer. From May to October there is more rain. Leave early: tours are long.
How to get there
The coastal entrance gate is a few kilometers south of Tulum’s beach area. Muyil is about 25 km south of Tulum on highway 307. Organized tours depart from Tulum with transport.
Tip
Book local cooperatives and registered guides. Bring biodegradable repellent, a hat, water and a snack; there are few services inside the reserve.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka'an
How to visit Sian Ka'an?
On boat tours with local cooperatives, departing from Muyil or the coast, or by car along the dirt road to Punta Allen.
What can you see in Sian Ka'an?
Lagoons, mangroves, beaches and reef, with birds, crocodiles, turtles and sometimes dolphins and manatees. Wildlife varies from one trip to another.
Is Sian Ka'an a UNESCO heritage site?
Yes, since 1987. The biosphere reserve was created in 1986.