Book Now

Bird Watching & Mayan Herbal Medicine

Medium Intensity 5 hours length Early Morning Self-Arrival

CONNECT WITH THE MAYAN SKY

Discover the magic of Sian Ka’an at sunrise, when the reserve awakens with the songs of endemic and migratory birds. Our local Mayan experts —certified under NOM-09-TUR and part of our cooperative tour operator with over 20 years of experience— will guide you through lush trails to spot rare birds and explore medicinal plants. With knowledge shared in Spanish, English, or Maya, every step deepens your connection with nature, culture, and conservation. By joining, you directly support our Mayan cooperative and its efforts to preserve this living heritage.

Join us!

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Your day begins with self-arrival at our cooperative’s palapa in the Muyil community (transportation is not included). The exact meeting time varies depending on the season, as it’s adjusted to coincide with sunrise. You will receive your confirmed arrival time after booking, which typically ranges between 5:50 and 7:00 a.m. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by our team and meet your certified Mayan guide, who will prepare you for a mindful and immersive morning in the Sian Ka’an Reserve. Itineraries are subject to change.

Start the day with a warm welcome over coffee and a light snack made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This is also the moment for your guide to introduce the plan for the morning, explain how to get the most out of birdwatching, and share the importance of silence and attentiveness in this contemplative experience. Itineraries are subject to change.

As dawn breaks and the forest awakens with the calls of birds, you’ll venture into the trails with your guide. Moving at a calm pace, you’ll learn to spot and identify a variety of species—from colorful migratory birds to endemic treasures that call Sian Ka’an home. Each walk is tailored by the guide depending on the season and the group’s interests. Itineraries are subject to change.

Along the birdwatching routes, your guide will also point out key native plants used in traditional Mayan herbal medicine. You’ll learn how these plants have been recognized for generations for their healing properties, deepening your understanding of the interconnection between biodiversity, culture, and wellbeing. Itineraries are subject to change.

This experience emphasizes silence, presence, and respect for the natural environment. As you walk, you’ll be invited to slow down, listen to the symphony of the forest, and connect with the rhythms of nature. The silence allows for deeper birdwatching encounters and a unique sense of inner calm. Itineraries are subject to change.

Return to the palapa to close the morning with a freshly prepared traditional Mayan lunch, cooked with local and seasonal ingredients. This is a moment to reflect on the experience, share impressions, and enjoy authentic flavors while directly supporting the Mayan cooperative’s mission of sustainable & regenerative tourism, and community well-being. Itineraries are subject to change.

Pricing

Early Self-arrival 6:00 a.m. Start

Adult (12+) $2,700 MXN

This activity involves walking on natural trails, requires quiet contemplation, and is not recommended for children under 12 years old.

Binoculars are not provided unless requested in advance. If you don’t have your own, please inform us when booking so we can provide a pair.

Good to know!

Good to know 1
Not Included

Transportation is not included — guests must arrange their own way to our cooperative’s palapa in Muyil. Gratuity not included and would strongly recommend bringing cash. Binoculars are not provided unless requested in advance.

Good to know 2
What’s Included

Light snack and coffee upon arrival, guided birdwatching walk with a certified local expert, identification of Mayan medicinal plants along the trails, purified water (bring your own reusable bottle), and a traditional Mayan meal at the end of the tour.

Good to know 3
Not Suitable For

Children under 12 (due to the contemplative and silent nature of the experience), pets (protected area regulations), guests with mobility issues (natural uneven trails), or visitors seeking a fast-paced activity — this is a slow, quiet, and deeply immersive tour.

Good to know 4
What to Bring

Binoculars (if you have them), camera, comfortable walking shoes, hat, long-sleeve sun protection, biodegradable insect repellent, reusable water bottle, and an open mind for learning and observing.

Good to know 5
Not Allowed

Alcohol, drugs, drones, vaping, smoking, plastic bottles, and regular insect repellent. Guests under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted on the tour.

Good to know 6
Schedule

Self-arrival at our Muyil palapa (arrive between 5:50–6:00 AM), light snack and coffee, guided birdwatching in the biosphere (species vary by season), identification of Mayan medicinal plants along the trails, return to the palapa for a traditional Mayan meal.