About Sian Ka'an in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico

In the language of the Mayan people who once inhabited the region, Sian Ka’an means, “Origin of the Sky”.  Located on the east coast of the Yucatan peninsula this biosphere contains tropical forests, mangroves and marshes, lagoons, sandy beaches and dunes as well as a large marine section that has a barrier reef.  

Sian Ka'an is one of Mexico’s largest protected areas and you will never forget the lush green of the forests and the many shades of the blue of the lagoons and the Caribbean Sea.

Sian Ka'an history

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In the mid 1970’s prior to Sian Ka’an the area was  home to an upscale resort that had all the comforts that anyone could ask for and in a location that was a true paradise located near Cancun.  However, due to a financial recession within Mexico the resort was abandoned in 1982, leaving the buildings open to theft and decay.  In 1986, this land and 1.3 million acres surrounding it became the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and in the following year was declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations UNESCO program.

Sian Ka'an tourism

There are many things to do when you visit Sian Ka’an. The options for tours are endless. Some of these include a nature encounter, snorkeling on the mayan reef, a muyil tour, bird watching at sunset and fly fishing. Visitors can expect to see creatures that are rarely found elsewhere, including manatees, four species of marine turtle, howler and spider monkeys, crocodiles and the rare Jabiru stork, jaguars, pumas, pink flamingos and toucans. The climate in this area of Mexico is warm with occasional summer rains. The beaches that are located here feature some of the whitest sand that you will ever see. When you step into the ocean water to go snorkeling it will feel like you are stepping into your bath tub. There are two local hotels located inside the park itself and many in the surrounding towns as well.  
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