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Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve covers a vast area of the Quintana Roo coast south of Tulum, protecting tropical forest, wetlands, lagoons and a section of the Caribbean barrier reef. Designated a World Heritage Site in 1987, it remains one of the largest protected areas in the Mexican Caribbean, and its name is often translated from Maya as the origin of the sky.
From the north, visits often start at the Muyil ruins, a Maya site near the highway, where a boardwalk leads through forest to Muyil Lagoon. Boat trips cross the lagoon and follow the Mayan Canal, an ancient waterway where visitors can float gently with the current. The community of Chunyaxche nearby is involved in local tourism. Along the coast, the entrance arch marks the beginning of the beach road, a rough route passing through dunes and mangroves to Punta Allen, a small lobster-fishing village at the reserve's southern end. The Great Mesoamerican Reef runs offshore, offering snorkeling, and the lagoons support manatees and crocodiles. Birds are abundant, including herons, egrets, frigatebirds and roseate spoonbills.
Sian Ka'an suits nature lovers and travelers prepared for limited services. Tulum is the usual gateway, with guided tours handling transport. Road conditions can be poor, especially after rain.
WiserMap travel guideSian Kaan Mexico Muyil Ruins and Lagoon CanalsPlan a visit to Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve in Quintana Roo, from Muyil ruins and lagoon canals to Punta Allen, reef snorkeling, wildlife and local seafood.Read the guide
Maya archaeological site on the western edge of the reserve, also called Chunyaxché, with a tall temple called El Castillo set in the jungle. It is much quieter than Tulum. A trail and boardwalk continue from the ruins through the forest to the lagoon.
Large freshwater lagoon next to the Muyil ruins, where boat tours set out across the water toward the ancient canals. A wooden lookout tower near the boardwalk gives views over the lagoon and the forest canopy. Book a licensed tour at the site or in Tulum.
Narrow channels through the mangroves believed to have been dug or used by the ancient Maya for trade. On tours you put on a life jacket and float gently down the clear current. It is a calm and memorable experience, best with biodegradable sunscreen only.
Wooden arch marking the entrance to the reserve on the coast road south of Tulum, where visitors pay the entry fee. Beyond it the bumpy dirt road runs between the sea and the lagoons. The road can be very rough, so drive slowly and allow plenty of time.
Small bridge on the coast road where the Boca Paila lagoon meets the Caribbean. Birds, fish and sometimes crocodiles can be seen in the channel below. Boat tours and fly fishing trips leave from nearby, and it is a good place to stop for photos.
Remote lobster-fishing village at the end of the coast road, deep inside the reserve. Local cooperatives run boat trips to see dolphins, turtles and birds and to snorkel the reef. Electricity and supplies are limited, so bring cash and fuel up before you go.
Wide, shallow bay beside Punta Allen known worldwide for fly fishing for bonefish, permit and tarpon. Boat trips also visit mangrove islands and spot dolphins and manatees. Hire a local guide from the Punta Allen fishing cooperatives.
The reef runs along the reserve's coast, and boat tours from Punta Allen stop at shallow sections with coral, colorful fish and sea turtles. Visibility is usually excellent. Seas can be rough in winter, so check conditions before booking a trip.
Small mangrove island in the lagoons where frigatebirds, herons, cormorants and roseate spoonbills nest. Boat tours slow down nearby so visitors can watch without disturbing them. Bring binoculars and a zoom lens, as boats keep their distance.
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