Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve day trip
Well reviewedBoat and snorkel day tour
A full day in a large UNESCO biosphere reserve south of Tulum, reached by minibus and boat. Expect lagoons, mangroves, reef snorkeling and wildlife.
- Time needed
- 11 hours 30 minutes including transport.
- Price
- About USD 179 per adult. Reserve entry is included. Prices change.
- Getting there
- The default meeting point is on Tulum Avenue, and hotel pickup in Playa del Carmen costs extra on this tour. The reserve is south of Tulum, so expect a long drive each way.
- Best time
- Snorkeling can be canceled in poor sea conditions, so ask the operator about sea state when you book.
RatingsCivitatis 9.5/10 (171)as of Oct 2026
Not the owner's recommendations. Ratings are the figures we read on the date shown, and they change.
Known for
- The reserve covers about 2,040 square miles and became a World Heritage Site in 1987.
- Wildlife includes jaguars, tapirs, manatees, crocodiles and many birds.
- The day mixes lagoons, mangroves and reef snorkeling.
- Reserve entry is included in the price of the tour.
- You reach the reserve by minibus and boat.
Practical tips
- Hotel pickup in Playa del Carmen adds about USD 20 to 30 per person. Confirm your hotel's zone.
- The extra charge is USD 20 per person from Puerto Aventuras to Playa del Carmen and USD 30 in north Playa.
Stay a short walk away
Penthouse 315 at Aldea Thai sleeps 10, with a private heated rooftop pool and ocean views, a 1-minute walk (about 230 ft) from Mamitas Beach. The penthouse is also for sale.