Sian Ka'an
Location: Quintana Roo Mexico
Year of Inscription: 1987
Criteria: (vii)to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: Sian Ka'an is a biosphere reserve located on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. The reserve covers an area of over 1.3 million acres and is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including wetlands, coral reefs, mangrove forests, and tropical forests.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of Sian Ka'an include:
History: The region around Sian Ka'an has been inhabited by the Maya people for centuries. The site was designated a biosphere reserve in 1986 by the Mexican government, in recognition of its ecological significance and its importance for the conservation of biodiversity.
Family-Friendly Activities: Sian Ka'an offers a range of family-friendly activities, including:
Fun Fact: Sian Ka'an means "where the sky is born" in the language of the Maya people.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Sian Ka'an varies depending on the activity and the location within the reserve. For example, the fee for visiting the Muyil ruins is 45 pesos (approximately $2 USD), while the fee for a snorkeling tour of the Mesoamerican Reef can be up to $80 USD per person. Some activities may require a guide, which can be an additional expense.
How to Reach it: The easiest way to reach Sian Ka'an is by car, as there is no direct public transportation to the reserve. Visitors can rent a car in Cancun or Playa del Carmen and drive to the reserve, which is approximately a 2-3 hour drive. Alternatively, visitors can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer from Cancun or Playa del Carmen to Sian Ka'an. There are also guided tours available that include transportation to and from the reserve. Tulum acts as a gateway to the reserve.
Where to Stay: There are a number of hotels and other accommodations available in the nearby towns
Next Stop: Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche 400km to the southwest
Year of Inscription: 1987
Criteria: (vii)to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: Sian Ka'an is a biosphere reserve located on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. The reserve covers an area of over 1.3 million acres and is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including wetlands, coral reefs, mangrove forests, and tropical forests.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of Sian Ka'an include:
- The Mesoamerican Reef, which is the second largest coral reef system in the world and home to over 500 species of fish
- The Boca Paila Lagoon, which is a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing
- The Mayan ruins of Muyil, which date back to the Pre-Columbian era
- The wetlands, which are an important breeding ground for migratory birds such as herons, egrets, and storks
- The diverse range of plant and animal species, including jaguars, pumas, ocelots, and tapirs
History: The region around Sian Ka'an has been inhabited by the Maya people for centuries. The site was designated a biosphere reserve in 1986 by the Mexican government, in recognition of its ecological significance and its importance for the conservation of biodiversity.
Family-Friendly Activities: Sian Ka'an offers a range of family-friendly activities, including:
- Guided tours of the reserve, which offer insights into the history, culture, and ecology of the region
- Snorkeling and diving in the Mesoamerican Reef, which is home to a diverse range of marine life
- Birdwatching in the wetlands, which are home to a range of migratory bird species
- Visiting the Mayan ruins of Muyil and learning about the history of the Maya people
Fun Fact: Sian Ka'an means "where the sky is born" in the language of the Maya people.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Sian Ka'an varies depending on the activity and the location within the reserve. For example, the fee for visiting the Muyil ruins is 45 pesos (approximately $2 USD), while the fee for a snorkeling tour of the Mesoamerican Reef can be up to $80 USD per person. Some activities may require a guide, which can be an additional expense.
How to Reach it: The easiest way to reach Sian Ka'an is by car, as there is no direct public transportation to the reserve. Visitors can rent a car in Cancun or Playa del Carmen and drive to the reserve, which is approximately a 2-3 hour drive. Alternatively, visitors can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer from Cancun or Playa del Carmen to Sian Ka'an. There are also guided tours available that include transportation to and from the reserve. Tulum acts as a gateway to the reserve.
Where to Stay: There are a number of hotels and other accommodations available in the nearby towns
- Tulum - Tulum is a popular town located near Sian Ka'an, and it offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Tulum is a great base for exploring Sian Ka'an and the surrounding area.
- Boca Paila - Boca Paila is a small community located inside the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, and it offers several eco-lodges and private villas for visitors. This is a great option for visitors who want to stay close to nature and immerse themselves in the local environment.
- Punta Allen - Punta Allen is a fishing village located at the southern end of the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. It offers several small hotels and guesthouses for visitors, as well as opportunities for fishing and exploring the local area.
- Akumal - Akumal is another popular town located near Sian Ka'an, and it offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Akumal is a great base for exploring Sian Ka'an and the surrounding area, as well as for enjoying the beaches and other attractions in the area.
Next Stop: Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche 400km to the southwest