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Outdoors

Sian Kaan Lagoon Paddle

You paddle across two linked freshwater lagoons, Muyil and Chunyaxché, and, when water levels allow, through a narrow mangrove-lined canal the ancient Maya dug to join them. Herons, egrets, cormorants and ospreys are common.

For The Reps · Updated

canoe trip scenery for Sian Kaan Lagoon Paddle near Quintana Roo
Photo: Muyil Lagoon by Tim, CC BY-SA 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0). Via Wikimedia Commons.
Where
Quintana Roo, Mexico
Time
about 5 hours (whole tour)
Difficulty
Moderate

The route

Guided kayak across the Muyil and Chunyaxché lagoons from Muyil, Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve.

Tours start at Muyil, 23 km from Tulum on the reserve's edge, usually with a hotel pick-up in Tulum around 6:00. Community Tours Sian Ka'an, a local cooperative authorised in the reserve, runs the kayak trip.

When to go

CONANP says the reserve can be visited all year.

Permits and fees

CONANP charges MXN 225 per person per day (50% off for students and teachers, free for under-12s and seniors), usually paid on arrival on top of the tour price. The reserve is open daily 7:00-18:00, and CONANP asks visitors to use authorised operators.

Before you go

  • CONANP's rules ban sunscreen in the reserve; cover up with a long-sleeved shirt and a hat instead.
  • Alcohol, drones, smoking and plastic bottles are not allowed on the tour; bring a reusable bottle.
  • No kayaking experience is needed, but expect steady paddling.
  • The canal section depends on water levels, so ask on the day whether it is included.

What to bring

  • A buoyancy aid, worn rather than stowed
  • A dry bag for your phone and keys
  • Water and snacks
  • Sun cream, a hat and sunglasses
  • A warm layer, even on a hot day

Getting ready for it

Paddling works your back, shoulders and core more than your arms.

A few weeks of rows, pull-ups or pulldowns and some rotational core work will make a full day far more comfortable.

Staying safe

  • American crocodiles live in this lagoon system; stay in your kayak unless your guide says otherwise.
  • Check the wind and water forecast before launching.
  • Tell someone your route and when you expect to be back.

Route details checked September 30, 2026 against descubreanp.conanp.gob.mx and siankaantours.com.mx. Rules and closures change, so check before you go.