Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Sian Ka'an
A World Heritage-level tropical wetland reserve where boat trips through mangroves and ancient Maya canals offer sightings of dolphins, sea turtles and many waterbirds.
Sian Ka'an, meaning 'Gate of Heaven,' is a biosphere reserve inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1987. Covering more than 5,000 square kilometers, it includes tropical forest, mangroves, lagoons and coral reefs. A popular option is a day trip from Tulum: take a boat through lagoons and mangrove channels, drift along canals dug by the ancient Maya, head out to sea to watch dolphins and sea turtles, and snorkel on sandbars. The fishing village of Punta Allen at the southern end is known for fly fishing. Entry requires a reserve fee. Roads are rough, so joining a tour or hiring a local guide is recommended.
Opening hours
Daytime (mainly by guided tour)
Nearby sights
- Muyil Archaeological Site
- Tulum Beach & Hotel Zone
- Laguna Kaan Luum
- Playa Paraíso, Tulum
- Tulum Archaeological Site
- Cenote Calavera (Temple of Doom)
- Gran Cenote
- Cenote Car Wash (Aktun Ha)