Sian Ka'an Biosphere Ancient Canals Expedition
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Sian Ka'an Biosphere Ancient Canals Expedition

Active
(4 reviews)
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Just minutes from Tulum, escape the crowds and dive into the peaceful magic of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like your own private paradise.
Float along an ancient Mayan canal that flows through four stunning ecosystems, where crystal-clear waters, lush mangroves, and endless wildlife create a dreamlike experience.

Keep your eyes open—you might spot manatees, crocodiles, and beautiful aquatic birds enjoying life in their natural habitat. This is nature at its purest.

To make your day even better, the experience includes a delicious breakfast to start your adventure and a fresh local meal to end it on a high note.

Perfect for travelers looking for tranquility, nature, and an unforgettable escape from the usual tourist crowds.

Available options

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Ancient Canals Expedition

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch at our Community Center
Bottled water
Lockers and Life Jackets
Boat ride across Muyil lagoon, Chunyaxche and Ancient Canal.

Detailed itinerary

1

Are you ready to discover one of the best-kept secrets of this beautiful destination? Join us on an unforgettable adventure as we journey through the stunning Sian Ka'an Reserve, following the same route that the ancient Mayans used thousands of years ago to connect the Caribbean Sea with the Muyil community.

As we navigate our way through the reserve, we'll encounter three main lagoons - Muyil, Chunyaxche, and Capelchen - all connected by a network of water channels.

And that's not all - in the heart of the reserve, surrounded by canals and lagoons, lies the Mayan temple of Ixlapak. This temple was used by the Mayans as an astral observatory.

But the real magic of this experience comes from the opportunity to relax and connect with nature. Imagine floating through the fresh water channels, feeling the cool water caressing your skin and the warm sun on your face. It's a moment of pure bliss, a chance to let go of all your worries and simply be in the moment.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages
Pickups outside Tulum area are $25 USD extra per person
Pickups at Cancún are $40 USD extra per person

Available languages

Guide guide
EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Complimentary pickup is available for guests staying in Tulum Pueblo and the Tulum Beach Zone. For pickups outside of these areas, an additional fee will apply based on your location. We offer transportation services throughout the entire Riviera Maya, including Akumal, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, and more. Just let us know your location, and we’ll be happy to provide a personalized quote.

Meeting point

Our meeting location is Calle Osiris entre Sol Oriente y Andrómeda Oriente at Tulum Pueblo. We are very close to the municipality, just across the street from the footbal court.

About Tulum

Tulum is a unique blend of ancient Mayan ruins, pristine beaches, and modern bohemian-chic culture. Known for its stunning coastal cliffs and vibrant arts scene, it offers a mix of history, nature, and contemporary luxury.

Top Attractions

Tulum Ruins

The ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum are perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the past.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate (around $10 USD)

Cenote Dos Ojos

A stunning cenote with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Nature Half day Moderate (around $10-$20 USD)

Playa Paraíso

A beautiful beach with white sand and turquoise waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports.

Beach Half day or more Free

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage site with diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, lagoons, and coral reefs.

Nature Full day Moderate to Expensive (around $50-$100 USD for tours)

Gran Cenote

A large cenote with both open and cave areas, perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Nature Half day Moderate (around $10-$20 USD)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and citrus, wrapped in banana leaves. A Yucatecan specialty.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork

Tikin Xic

Grilled fish or chicken marinated in achiote and citrus, cooked in banana leaves.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish or chicken

Panuchos

Fried tortillas filled with refried beans, topped with turkey or chicken, pickled onions, and avocado.

Appetizer Contains beans, turkey or chicken

Mango with Chili and Lime

Fresh mango slices sprinkled with chili powder and lime juice, a popular street snack.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Climbing the Nohoch Mul pyramid in Coba Cenote diving Jungle trekking in Sian Ka'an Beach lounging at Playa Paraíso Yoga at Aldea Zama Spa treatments at luxury resorts Exploring the Tulum ruins Visiting local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season with perfect weather, clear skies, and ideal conditions for exploring ruins, beaches, and enjoying outdoor activities.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-6 (CST) depending on daylight saving time

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tulum is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be cautious with valuables and avoid isolated areas at night.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Avoid walking alone at night
  • • Use reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air
  • Cancún International Airport • 120 km (75 miles)
By bus

Cancún Bus Terminal, Playa del Carmen Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses and collectivos (shared vans) are the most common and affordable way to get around Tulum.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tulum Town Tulum Beach (Zona Hotelera) Aldea Zama

Day trips

Coba
45 km (28 miles) • Full day

Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Coba, including the Nohoch Mul pyramid, which you can still climb.

Playa del Carmen
60 km (37 miles) • Half day or full day

A vibrant beach town known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Muyil
20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A lesser-known Mayan ruin with a beautiful lagoon and boardwalk through the jungle.

Festivals

Carnaval de Tulum • February/March (dates vary) Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) • November 1-2

Pro tips

  • Visit the Tulum ruins early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Explore the cenotes for a unique and refreshing experience.
  • Try local Yucatecan dishes like cochinita pibil and tikin xic.
  • Stay in eco-friendly accommodations to support sustainable tourism.
  • Rent a bike to explore the town and nearby attractions.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 16-70
1
Childs
Age 8-15
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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