Sian Ka’an is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. If you haven’t seen my post, read that article first. However, now that you are in the area, what else should you do? Furthermore, inside of Sian Ka’an, what is there to do? Fortunately, these questions have very satisfying answers.

1) Track Dolphins and Sea Turtles (inside Sian Ka’an)

Small eco-tour boats get extremely close to curious dolphins.

Large ‘white’ sea turtles are in the area near the town of “Punta Allen.” Tours are offered in the town to see them, crocodiles, eagles, and dolphins. Snorkeling is also available.

As you enter the town of Punta Allen, you might see some signs for “eco-tours.” Some of the town people have grown an appreciation for observing the wildlife, without harming it. In this spirit, they offer a boat ride to see some dolphins and sea turtles. The longer tours can also include viewing eagles in their nests, and crocodiles. The boat also navigates through rivers fenced by mangrove trees. It is quite a surreal experience.

Related Articles / Useful Links on this Site:

1) Sian Ka’an World Heritage Site Evaluation

2) Three More Things to do Near or Inside Sian Ka’an (pt.2)

2) Find Your Own Wildlife (inside Sian Ka’an)

Pretty cool camouflage.

These birds, along with species of eagles only found here are seen nesting.

This mammal was running across the road with its family after checking that there were no cars. Truly amazing. I couldn’t get my camera out fast enough to photograph the rest of the family.

The wildlife is dense in most rain forests. However, animals tend to shy away from people. Due to relatively low traffic, plenty of animals can be seen on a ride into Sian Ka’an. Don’t hesitate to stop, turn off your engine, and go looking for some animals. You might be surprised at what you will find.

Related Articles / Useful Links on this Site:

1) Sian Ka’an World Heritage Site Evaluation

2) Three More Things to do Near or Inside Sian Ka’an (pt.2)

3) The Ruins of Tulum (outside Sian Ka’an)

Tulum sits on a cliff, overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

These ruins might become their own separate world heritage site some day, but I will add them for the moment. Tulum was one of the most extensive port cities of the ancient world. It connected the Mayan people to the rest of the Caribbean for trade. The ruins overlook the Caribbean Sea, which is a gorgeous bright blue or green in some places. Lots of wildlife, including iguanas and eagles flock this area because of its proximity to Sian Ka’an.

Related Articles / Useful Links on this Site:

1) Sian Ka’an World Heritage Site Evaluation

2) Three More Things to do Near or Inside Sian Ka’an (pt.2)

Related Articles / Useful Links on other Sites:

1) Punta Allen Map

2) Tulum Map

3) Tulum Wiki

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Julio Moreno

Julio is a California native who has lived abroad since 2009 as an expat in South Korea and New Zealand. He is especially passionate about experiencing other cultures and visiting as many UNESCO World Heritage Sites as possible.

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