Explore the pristine natural beauty and ecological wonders of the Sian Ka'an Reserve – a 1.5 million acre protected Unesco World Heritage site, the largest protected area in the state of Quintana Roo.

Travel by boat throughout various habitats of the Reserve and learn about ecosystems, tropical birds and plants, and Mayan culture and history. CESiaK's friendly, knowledgable, and experienced naturalist guides will lead you to discover:

• a multitude of tropical birds such as the Roseate Spoonbill, Boat-billed Heron, Frigate, Osprey, White Ibis, Tri-colored Heron
• the freshwater inland canal used as a trade route by the Maya over 1200 years ago
• abundant flora and fauna unique to the Sian Ka'an habitats and eco-systems
• "bird island" an isolated mangrove island which serves as a nesting ground for tropical birds
  
• the beauty of the sun setting over the horizon in the land "where the sky is born"

The tour begins at the stone arch entrance to the Sian Ka'an Reserve with an introductory orientation and discussion of the objectives of the Reserve. The CESiaK guide will offer an overview of the flora, fauna, and ecosystems found within the Reserve.

After boarding a 23', 6-seater "ponga" boat with captain/guide, traverse the lagoon and pass a small Mayan ruin and explore the lagoons of Caapechen and Boca Paila.

The tour continues south along the costal peninsula to the lagoon of Boca Paila to head inland through the narrow 11 km freshwater canal which runs through the expansive mangrove wetlands and savanna grasslands located in the interior of the Reserve. These habitats allow for viewing of red, white, and black mangroves, orchids, bromeliads, termite mounds, fish, and birds. Here we enjoy a relaxing float down the canal using a life jacket and the canal's current to witness the beauty of the reserve from a different perspective.

The tour continues south along the costal peninsula to the lagoon of San Miguel where the "Bird Island" draws various tropical bird species home to roost at dusk. The captain/guide will gently pole the boat around the perimeter of the island allowing for visitors to see, up close, the marvel of these various bird species: Roseate Spoonbills, Night Herons, Boat Billed Herons, Tri-Colored Herons, Frigates, White Ibis, Little Blue Herons, Green Herons, Pelicans, and Egrets.

As the sun sets over the lagoon enjoy the peaceful and inspiring beauty of the Reserve.

The captain/guide will then direct the boat back to the CESiaK dock where guests disembark and return to the CESiaK education center to enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by the restaurant, inspired by local cuisine.

Take the opportunity to star-gaze from the CESiaK rooftop before returning to your hotel (or Sian Ka'an office) by shuttle.