All posts filed under: Destination

Manatees in the Sian Ka'an Biosphere

Manatees in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere

Although the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, which was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is home to a dizzying number of animal species, one of the most enchanting that inhabits the area is the manatee.  Once hunted by local fishermen, these brilliant creatures which have unfortunately become an endangered species, are now protected from such threats.  When you visit this splendid area, you may have the chance to observe them in their natural habitat, which is any animal lover’s dream!  Here are some things you should know about these fascinating aquatic mammals: The Life of a Manatee Manatees typically live in shallow, marshy coastal areas and adjacent rivers such as the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.  They are one of the only marine animals able to successfully spend time in both fresh and saltwater.  However, they rely on fresh water to drink, which is why they are often found in the lagoons around Sian Ka’an where fresh water emerges from underground Cenotes. They happen to be the largest vegetarian animals to inhabit …

Fishing in Sian Ka’an

Fishing in Sian Ka’an

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere and Nature Preserve in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula has become a popular destination for eco-friendly tourists and nature lovers from all over the world thanks to its stunning views and enthralling experiences. Sports like fishing is just one of many activities that you can indulge in while staying in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. Fishing Tours in the Sian Ka’an Fishing in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is a pastime that is steadily growing in popularity. This is likely the case because of the stunning biodiversity which can be found in the waters of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. You will find that your fishing experience is easily customizable in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere if you have a particular prey in mind; although not all fish are available all year round. It might be necessary for you to tailor the timing of your visit and the techniques you use to target a certain species. What’s included? When you sign up to a fishing tour or trip in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere you can generally rely …

How to Get to the Sian Ka’an Village

How to Get to the Sian Ka’an Village

The Sian Ka’an village is surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery that the Mexican Caribbean has to offer; the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is a federally protected reserve that boasts mangroves, white sands, and palm trees. The secluded location offers an off-the-beaten-track brand of luxury that is hard to find in a vacation these days. How to get to the Sian Ka’an Village The Sian Ka’an Village is situated right on the coast of Felipe Carrillo Puerto in Quintana Roo. By land this is around 6 hours from Cancun international airport, 4 hours from Chetumal, and 1 hour north of Mahahual. This luxury villa is in the heart of the land that was made a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1987, and is a truly one of a kind place. Planning your trip in advance In order to help you plan your trip we have listed some basic advice about how to get to the Sian Ka’an Village below. If you need a refresher, or you want …

The Animals of Sian Ka'an

The Animals of Sian Ka’an

Rich in biodiversity, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is fortunate to be a natural habitat of an amazing number of animal species.  With a wide variety of vegetation types and plenty of secluded space to exist undisturbed in the wild, the animals here are living the way nature always intended.  Geographic features including swamps, lagoons, coastal lagoons and marine environments are a wonderful refuge for these lucky resident creatures.    Birds There is an astounding number of bird species here, with 326 different types that have been recorded thus far.  This includes 219 species that are full-time residents and 65 that migrate here for the winter.  Beyond that, the area is also along the migratory path for birds that travel to Central and South America.  The reserve counts 21 out of the 23 species of wading birds found in Mexico as residents.  Species including the toucan, frigate, jabiru stork, cormorant, crowned pigeon and great curassow are common sightings in the reserve.   The Sian Ka’an Biosphere boasts Mexico’s second-highest numbers of reproduction amongst some of …

Responsible Tourism in Sian Ka’an

Sian Ka’an Responsible Tourism

When we talk about Quintana Roo and the Yucatan Peninsula we are discussing two of Mexico’s busiest and most successful tourist destinations. These are places of truly worldwide renown and of high quality experiences. Over the last 40 years the tourist trade has steadily grown in these places until an estimated 8 million tourists and 3 million cruise ship passengers pass through on a yearly basis. This trade has brought economic stability and growth to the region, but have, of course, also had a noticeable economic impact. Thankfully, however, the locals have noticed that there is a potential here for responsible and sustainable eco-tourism. This is evidenced by the developments and programs that can be found in and around the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.   Responsible Tourism in Sian Ka’an The Sian Ka’an is one of the most beautiful and protected areas of land in the Yucatan Peninsula. Not only is it a protected nature reserve, but this is a place which has attained the coveted UNESCO World Heritage Site status. This is hardly a surprise, …

Sian Ka’an Diving and Fishing Packages

Sian Ka’an Diving and Fishing Packages

While traveling to one amazing vacation destination in Mexico is good, experiencing two is even better!  Instead of visiting just Cancun or the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, treat yourself to an unforgettable trip that includes a stay in both dreamy oceanfront landscapes.  With the vacation packages offered at Sian Ka’an Village, including a Paradise Diving Adventure and a Luxury Fly Fishing Escape, you can stay in the lap of luxury in both majestic locations.   Luxury Getaway Packages – Villa del Palmar Cancun and Sian Ka’an Village These unbelievable luxury getaway packages include a stay at two of the Yucatan peninsula’s most notable vacation properties: Villa del Palmar Cancun Luxury Beach Resort & Spa and the Sian Ka’an Village.  No matter which package you decide on, your adventurous retreat will begin at Villa del Palmar Cancun where opulence meets comfort.  Afterward, you will reach the Sian Ka’an Biosphere by car to experience your stay at a breathtaking luxury beachfront villa that feels as though it is tucked away from the world.   Villa del Palmar Cancun …

Sian Ka’an Ecotourism

Sian Ka’an Ecotourism

Ecotourism has really boosted the economy in Mexico at large and in Quintana Roo and the Yucatan Peninsula in particular. Of course this area was host to some of the premier destinations in Latin America before the influx of eco-tourists; over the last 40 years, the annual figure for visitors has steadily climbed until, in recent years, it shows 8 million tourists and 3 million cruise ship passengers passing through yearly. Alongside the great economic benefits that ecotourism has brought, however, there have been social benefits too! Potential for sustainable development in the region is high, so the only way is up! Sian Ka’an Ecotourism The Sian Ka’an Biosphere has achieved the coveted status of a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as being a protected nature reserve. The rich history and culture that has been preserved within the biosphere, such as the fishing traditions of Punta Herrero, and the unique ecosystems at play here have much to do with this. What draws in many ecotourists, however, are the virgin coastline and teeming waters. There …

Vegetation and Flora in the Sian Ka'an Biosphere

Vegetation and Flora in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere

The mystical, magical setting of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, which is located along Mexico’s Caribbean coast in the Yucatan peninsula, is brimming with lush vegetation and seemingly endless species of plants and flowers, and reports a staggering recorded total of 859 floral species.  The Sian Ka’an biosphere is largely untouched by human activity, allowing the serene plant life to provide shelter and food for the many resident animals in this intricate ecosystem.   Here are some of the highlights of the vegetation and flora in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere: Sub perennifolia tropical forest The reserve is filled with abundant tropical forests.  Some of the most prominent species of trees include Brosimum Alicastrum, Manilkara Sapota, Talisia Oliviformis, Nectandra Coriacea, Drypetes and Thrinax Radiata. Deciduous tropical forest Covering an area of roughly 12,000 hectares, the deciduous forest in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is brimming with Coccothrinax Readii, Pseudophoenix Sargentii, Bursera Simaruba, Caesalpinia Gaumeri and Metopium Brownei.  There are at least 230 species of trees and shrubs here, and amazingly, just 14% are endemic to the Yucatan peninsula …

The Geography of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere

Mayan for ‘‘where the sky is born’’, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, which is located in the Yucatan peninsula, is Mexico’s largest nature reserve, covering 1.3 million acres with a span of 120 kilometers (75 miles) that includes almost one-third of the country’s Caribbean coast.  Home to tropical forests, sandy beaches, mangroves, wetlands, reefs, dunes and marshes, this biosphere preserve became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 because of its diverse geography and wetlands, plus its high diversity of species of both flora and fauna within its delicate ecosystem.   A Sacred Mayan Region Known throughout the region as a magical place even in the present day, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere was once a sacred area for the ancient Maya civilization, and is still home to two dozen known archaeological sites with artifacts.   Hummocks The land throughout the Sian Ka’an reserve is relatively flat and does not have any significant changes in elevations.  Because Sian Ka’an sits just slightly higher than sea level, even seemingly insignificant topographical changes can have a major impact …

Getting to Sian Ka’an Village

Getting to Sian Ka’an Village

Located within breathtaking tropical surroundings upon the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Sian Ka’an Village is flanked by the Caribbean Sea and a rolling landscape of mangroves, exotic flora and palm trees. Sian Ka’an Village’s secluded location offers an off-the-beaten-track luxury vacation most can only dream of. Sian Ka’an Village is situated on the coast of Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo, approximately 1 hour north of Mahahual by land, around 4 hours from Chetumal airport and over 6 hours from Cancun airport. It forms part of the breathtaking Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and is well worth the journey to reach this secluded luxury villa. To help you plan your trip, below you will find some basic advice about getting to Sian Ka’an Village, although our pre-arrival concierge service can help you with these arrangements and offer advice to suit your preferences and budget. Getting to Sian Ka’an Village by Air The most convenient way to get to Sian Ka’an Village is …