12 hours
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve – Punta Allen
In the Yucatec Mayan language, Sian Ka’an means “where the sky is born”. Sian Ka’an is one of the largest protected areas in México with 6520 km2 (1.6 million acres) and with an enormous amount of biodiversity. The UNESCO program “Man and Biosphere” has three aims: conservation, research and education in order to promote sustainable development. Therefore, people can live within these protected areas and participate in economic activities such as fishing, seasonal agriculture and tourism as long as it is done in a sustainable manner.
With a population of 800 people, the town of Punta Allen is located at the end of a 56 km (35 miles) road strip covered with coastal vegetation, the Caribbean Sea on one side and Ascension Bay on the other side. Fishing for lobster is the main source of income in Punta Allen but tourism has become as important for the local economy because Punta Allen offers an excellent opportunity to experience Caribbean culture and nature. This is a great tour to explore different marine ecosystems where it is possible to see reptiles such as, crocodiles and sea turtles; birds like frigates, pelicans, boobies, cormorants, herons, egrets, ospreys and many more. Dolphins are a common sight and with luck, a manatee can also be seen.
Snorkeling in the Mesoamerican reef (second largest in the world) is an obligated activity to enjoy sights of its incredible diversity of fish and coral. When it is time to relax, we visit a beautiful sandbar that the locals refer to as “the world’s largest swimming pool”. We finish with a delicious Caribbean lunch.
Tour Program:
For Whom?
Sian Ka’an Adventure is a tour made for the visitor interested in exploring the Caribbean coast (culture, flora and fauna) in its most natural state while having fun and learning about these truly unique ecosystems.
Not recommended for pregnant women.
* Snorkeling activity is subject to sea and weather conditions.