Description
This incredible half-day is without a doubt one of the great experiences in nature of all Mexico. The day starts off by visiting the ancient ruins of Muyil. Even though these ruins might not be as impressive as the big three (Tulum, Chichen, or Coba) they are completely worth visiting since they are well conserved and located in an incredible setting deep in the jungle. The ruins feel exotic, mysterious, and undisturbed.
After exploring the ruins you will then head off towards a jungle road that leads to the Chunyaxche Lagoon of Sian Kaan.
The Muyil archaeological site, also known as Chunyaxché, is one of the earliest and longest inhabited ancient Maya sites on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
It’s nestled within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, blending both historical and natural wonders.
Historically, Muyil was occupied as early as the Middle Preclassic period (350-250 BC) and remained an active site through to the Postclassic period (1200-1500 AD).
This prolonged habitation has left a rich tapestry of structures spanning various architectural styles and epochs.
One of the standout features of the site is the “El Castillo” (The Castle), which is a 57-foot tall pyramid.
This pyramid serves as a prominent landmark and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding reserve and the lagoons connected to the site.
Muyil played a significant role as a trade center.
The site’s proximity to the Caribbean Sea and its location by the lagoons and waterways made it an integral part of a trade network that facilitated the movement of goods like salt, honey, feathers, and cacao between regions.
Apart from its main structures and the Castillo, the site also has several stelae, small temples, and platforms.
The site’s architecture and artifacts provide valuable insights into the socio-political and economic life of the Maya during their occupation.
Surrounded by lush forests, the experience of Muyil is distinct from other Mayan sites in the Yucatan.
Birdwatching in Muyil 🐦
You will find a luxuriant nature in Muyil. Bird observation is a must see activity in Muyil. To observe them, we advise you to opt for a tour with a guide.
Thus, he will explain to you the fauna and the different species of birds inhabiting the Muyil area. You can observe 40 to 80 species of birds in this area, depending on the season.
Most of the tours take you bird watching in a small Mayan community, on a trail through the heart of the jungle, and in Muyil.
While the exact species you can spot might vary depending on the season and time of day, here are some birds commonly sighted in the area:
Oscellated Turkey: This is a vibrant and colorful turkey species native to the Yucatan Peninsula.
Yucatan Jay: Recognizable by its bright blue body and yellow legs and eyes.
Hooded Oriole: A striking bird with a combination of yellow and black colors.
Tropical Kingbird: Often seen perched on treetops, this bird has a gray head, olive upperparts, and a bright yellow belly.
Black-headed Trogon: This bird has a bright yellow belly, green back, and blue-gray head, making it quite noticeable.
Great Kiskadee: Recognizable by its loud call, this bird has a yellow belly and a distinctive black and white striped head.
Wood Storks, Roseate Spoonbills, and various Herons and Egrets: These are often sighted around the lagoons and waterways.
Yucatan Woodpecker: A small woodpecker species native to the region.
Tropical Mockingbird: Similar to the Northern Mockingbird but is a resident of the Yucatan.
White-bellied Emerald and other hummingbird species: These tiny, swift birds are often seen hovering around flowers.
Muyil, offers a diverse range of habitats, which in turn supports a variety of wildlife species. Here are some of the animals you might encounter during your visit to Muyil:
Mammals:
Monkeys: Howler and spider monkeys are native to the region and can sometimes be seen swinging from tree to tree.
Coatis: These are part of the raccoon family and are often seen foraging on the ground.
Jaguars and Pumas: While they are present in the reserve, sightings are extremely rare due to their elusive nature.
Tapirs: Another rare sight but they do inhabit the area.
Then we are off to our Canal adventure 🌊🌊🌊
The Sian Kaan Biosphere is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site that consists of miles of protected beaches, lagoons, and reefs.
At the lagoon, visitors will board a panga boat and cruise into the lagoon where you are likely to see incredible wildlife including species of birds, fish, or even manatees. The scenery is untouched and spectacular. The surrounding lagoon and savannah make you feel like you are in remote Africa.
After cruising for a while you will arrive at a Mayan ruin in the middle of the lagoon that used to function as a customs house. Here you will put on a life jacket and jump into the surrounding turquoise lagoon to float through a channel through the mangrove. The channel current will push you like a lazy river where you will float for a couple of kilometers through transparent waters. The float is completely unique, beautiful, and peaceful.
Includes:
*Roundtrip Transportation from meeting point
*Entrance fee to UNESCO World Heritage Site: Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve.
*Entrance fee to the archaeological site of Muyil
Climb the tallest viewpoint in the reserve (watchtower)
*Certified Tour Guides
*Boat trip across two fresh water lagoons
*Floating activity in lazy river (ancient canal)
Life Jacket and All activities with equipment
*Bottled water and snacks
NOT SUITABLE FOR:
Pets (protected area regulations), unaccompanied elderly, and pregnant women in their final 6 weeks of pregnancy due to boat movement risks. Children under 4 only with full adult supervision.
AVAILABILITY: MONDAY THRU SUNDAY
ADULTS $199.00 DOLLARS
KIDS $109.00 DOLLARS. KIDS AGES 6 TO 10
KIDS 5 AND UNDER ARE FREE.
MINIMUM 4 GUEST OR MORE FOR PRIVATE TOUR.
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