Located a few minutes south of Tulum is the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, characterized by its representative vegetation of tropical forests. However, it also features extensive mangrove forests and riparian vegetation along the edges of large freshwater bodies of the region. In this area, you can find endemic bird species such as the Yucatan Flycatcher, Rose-throated Tanager, Green-backed Sparrow, Yucatán Woodpecker, Yucatan Jay, and Orange Oriole.

First, we will walk around the small town of Muyil for the first hour and a half. During this time we will see many species because there is a mix of vegetation like the secondary forest (shrubs and small trees), and the medium size forest, but also we can find plants with flowers and fruits in open areas so that we can have great views of the birds. We can find the Keel-billed Toucan, Collared Aracari, Lineated Woodpecker, Blue-gray and Yellow-winged Tanager, Squirrel Cuckoo, Wedge-tailed Sabrewing, Black-headed Trogon and others.

Then, we will visit the archaeological site within the reserve to observe the structures of the ancient coastal trading city of Muyil. This is a protected area with taller trees home to other special species of the area such as the Golden-olive Woodpecker, Ruddy Woodcreeper, Gartered and Collared Trogon, Lesson’s Motmot, Collared Forest Falcon, White-crowned Pigeon, Red-throated and Red-crowned Ant-tanager. ​

​​A nice boardwalk connects the archaeological site with the lagoon, we will walk slowly searching for other birds, while there is a transition from the forest to the mangrove vegetation. We can encounter species like the Northern Bentbill, Yellow-bellied Elaenia, Long-billed Gnatwren, Scrub Euphonia, Black-cowled Oriole, Yellow-backed Oriole, Yellow-tailed Oriole, and on the edge of the lagoon the Russet-naped Wood-rail.

Optional boat trip

After finishing the boardwalk from the archeological site, an optional boat trip takes you into the Muyil Lagoon. While birdwatching can be a bit slow on the boat, the main purpose is to enjoy the stunning views of the crystal-clear water and take a refreshing swim in a lazy river. The boat takes us to a canal in the mangroves where you can relax and let yourself be carried away by the gentle current. It's a truly wonderful experience.