Private Tour Celestun Flamingo Watching and Beach
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Sail through the mangroves of the Celestun Estuary, watch flamingos in their natural habitat, and enjoy the sounds they make while feeding and flying low over the water. Discover other endemic bird species, visit a freshwater spring hidden among the mangroves, ending your day savoring coastal cuisine as you relax on the beautiful beach.
-Private Boat tour to the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve
-Ride through the mangroves accompanied by a certified guide
-Witness the pink spectacle: Hundreds of flamingos in their natural habitat (the number of flamingos may vary depending on season and weather)
-Sail through a mangrove tunnel that looks like it came straight out of a movie
-Discover a hidden freshwater spring in the middle of the mangroves
-Savor de freshest food from the Yucatecan coast right by the ocean
-The perfect tour for nature and photography lovers
-Relax on the beach and swim in the waters of the Emerald Coast (flexible timing)
-An ideal escape that blends sea and nature
Available options
Private Tour
Duration: 7 hours<br/>Minivan and Boat<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Certified bilingual guide
Minibar: Refreshing beverages
Travel insurance during transportation
Private boat ride and life jackets
Detailed itinerary
1
Celestún: A natural paradise awaits you in Yucatán
If you’re a nature lover and passionate about photography, you can’t leave Yucatán without visiting this ecological paradise! Aboard a private boat, you’ll venture into a magical world of mangroves, home to 560 animal species. Keep your eyes wide open, you may spot tiger herons, gulls, Canadian ducks, crocodiles, and even spider monkeys if luck is on your side.
Celestún is famous for being one of the main breeding sites of the American flamingo. From December to March, these elegant birds put on an unparalleled show with their low flights and courtship.
We will continue our boat tour to Bird Island to admire its rich birdlife. Then, we’ll venture into a mangrove tunnel that feels straight out of a movie. If the weather allows, you can immerse yourself in its crystal-clear and revitalizing waters to mitigate the heat and renew energy.
The trip from Mérida to Celestún will last 1 hour 15 minutes
The tour will last 1 hour 30 minutes
2
Tasting Yucatecan cuisine and relax on the beach.
We will head to the beach of Celestún port. Delight in the flavors of the Yucatecan coast in a local restaurant. Relax with the spectacular view of the emerald waters, take a dip in the sea, and walk enjoying the sea breeze. Your guide will offer different restaurant options, if you want the privacy of a Beach Club, you can request it from your guide at the beginning of the tour and we will gladly help you with the reservation (tickets not included).
Important note: Flamingo sightings are not guaranteed, as it depends on factors like weather conditions and migration season. The recommended period for flamingo sightings is from December 15th to March 15th.
We will begin our return trip to Mérida to end the tour.
Transfer to the restaurant or beach club 15 minutes
Lunch and swimming time at the beach will be 2 hours 45 minutes
The return trip to Mérida will be 1 hour 15 minutes
What's not included
(Guide and driver)
Lunch
Admission tickets to the Beach Club (if you choose this option)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
11 reviews
5★
11
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
30 reviews
5★
30
4★
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3★
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1★
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Service animals allowed
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
On this tour you are supporting the preservation of the natural reserve and the conservation of wildlife.
No mandatory stops at souvenir shops
Important notes
Please present your mobile ticket to your guide at the starting time the day of your tour.
About Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan
Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan offer a rich blend of ancient Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and vibrant colonial cities. This region is a paradise for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation in tropical settings.
Top Attractions
Chichen Itza
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city features the iconic El Castillo pyramid.
Historical
Half to full day
Moderate (around 500 MXN for entrance)
Uxmal
A stunning example of Puuc architecture, Uxmal is another significant Mayan archaeological site.
Historical
Half day
Moderate (around 350 MXN for entrance)
Celestún
A beautiful coastal village known for its flamingo-filled lagoons and pristine beaches.
Nature
Full day
Budget to moderate (boat tours around 500 MXN)
Riviera Maya
A stretch of Caribbean coastline known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
Beach
Overnight or multi-day trip
Variable (budget to luxury options available)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cochinita Pibil
Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and sour orange, wrapped in banana leaves.
Main Dish
Contains pork
Panuchos
Fried tortillas filled with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and avocado.
Appetizer
Vegetarian options available
Sopa de Lima
A tangy and comforting soup made with lime, chicken, and tortilla strips.
Soup
Contains chicken
Popular Activities
Cenote diving
Jungle trekking
Zip-lining
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga retreats
Visiting archaeological sites
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring archaeological sites.
22-28°C
72-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5)
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Merida and the Yucatan are generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates compared to other parts of Mexico. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport • 10 km from Merida city center
- Cancún International Airport • 300 km from Merida
By bus
Terminal de Autobuses de Mérida
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and efficient, combís are small vans that follow fixed routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Histórico
Colonia García Ginerés
Altabrisa
Day trips
Valladolid
150 km from Merida • Full day
A charming colonial town with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
Izamal
70 km from Merida • Half day
A picturesque town known for its yellow buildings and significant archaeological sites.
Cenotes Route
Varies, typically 30-60 km from Merida • Full day
A series of stunning cenotes (natural sinkholes) perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Festivals
Festival de la Ciudad • January
Hanal Pixán • November 1-2
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Visit cenotes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures
- Explore the region's lesser-known archaeological sites for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food for an affordable and delicious culinary adventure
- Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season (November to April)
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
