Visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve in Tulum

The Maya constructed more than just pyramids and cities. Float and kayak down the Yucatan Peninsula’s hand-dug canals.

The Mayans are an ancient indigenous civilization of the Americas that has long fascinated and captivated people all over the world. They are famous for their massive pyramids that towered over their magnificent cities. But the Maya were much more than their cities; caves, for example, were revered as sacred portals to the underworld.

The Maya were concentrated in what is now Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and parts of El Salvador and Honduras. To sustain their civilization, they constructed canals that are still navigable today. Visitors can explore some of the canals they left behind and reflect on times gone by.

One of the World’s Greatest Biosphere Reserves Is Sian Ka’an

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve was established in 1986 and designated as a World Heritage site in 1987. It is a lot more than a biosphere reserve. The area is also significant for its historic and archeological value, as well as the canals carved by the Maya hand.

Since 1987, it has been listed by UNESCO.
5,280 km2 in size
Ecosystems: Tropical Forest, Mangroves, Savannahs, Blue Lagoons, and Coral Reefs Location: Just South of Tulum

“Sian Ka’an” literally means “gate of heaven” or “place where heaven begins.” A portion of the biosphere is on land, while the remainder is in the Caribbean (and includes a section of coral reef). The biosphere is now regarded as one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet, and it is popular for ecotourism.

The reserve is filled with cenotes and tree islands formed by swamps.

Crocodiles, pumas, tapirs, jaguars, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, sea turtles, manatees, and dolphins are among the wildlife. There are over 330 species.

This is a meeting place for ancient history and the natural world.

Visiting Sian Ka’an and Floating Through Maya Canals

Consider floating down canals hand-built by the Maya centuries ago. It’s a surreal experience, made even more so by the biosphere that surrounds it. View the tall grasses and colorful birds while listening to the haunting howler monkey calls.

It provides an alternative to all-inclusive resorts and tropical Caribbean beaches. The reserve is home to approximately 23 Maya civilization archaeological sites. The oldest site dates back to around 350 BC.

Archaeological Sites: There are 23 Maya sites.

The waterways were part of an important Maya route. The Maya people inhabited Sian Ka’an for over 1200 years before abandoning it in the mid-1500s.

Birdwatching tours and kayaking tours are two examples of excursions. These frequently lead through the area’s lagoons while exploring the Maya ruins and ancient canals (also including snorkeling on the reefs).

Full-service excursions to the Sian Ka’an reserve typically cost between $85 and 165 per person. According to Lonely Planet, local boatmen may offer canal tours for $35-50 per person for those on a tighter budget. They are accessible by day trip from Tulum.

The area can be visited on one’s own, but it is best done with a guide. There are few trails, and navigating the waterways on one’s own can be difficult.

Mayan Route and Canal Tour

The day tour that combines the bio reserve’s natural beauty with its cultural heritage is one example of a Mayan Canal tour in the Sian Ka’an. Guests on this tour will snorkel the massive Mesoamerican Reef, the world’s second largest reef after the Australian Great Barrier Reef (one of the world’s greatest natural treasures).

During the tour:

Float Through The Mayan Canal
Mesoamerican Reef Snorkeling
See also Flora and Fauna.
Find Sink Holes in the Lagoons
Visit the Mayan Ruins.

The tour includes a boat ride, a tour guide, snorkel equipment, drinks (water and juice), snacks, lunch, and Sian Ka’an and Mayan Canal admission fees.

Duration: 4 to 6 Hours
Availability: Monday to Saturday (Sunday on Request)
Age Restriction: Under 3

Other tour companies to consider include Community Tours Sian Ka’an and Tulum Diving and Travel. Explore the ancient Maya channels built long before Europeans arrived to connect their communities by sitting back in a boat or jumping in.

Plan your trip to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

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