Just a short drive south of Valladolid, the Mayan village of Xocen is surrounded by lowland tropical forest and secondary scrub. The diversity of habitats makes it a good area to observe species like the Yucatan Jay, Orange Oriole, Yellow-backed Oriole, Yellow- tailed Oriole, White-bellied Emerald, Yellow-billed Cacique, Yellow-olive Flycatcher, and Black Catbird.

This site is known for being one of the most reliable spots on the region to hear and see the Pheasant Cuckoo. Starting before sunrise improves chances of encountering nocturnal species such as the Yucatan Poorwill and the Middle American Screech-Owl, as well as early morning specialties like Gray-throated Chat, Mangrove Vireo, Blue Bunting, Saltators, and several hummingbirds including Wedge-tailed Sabrewing, Canivet's Emerald, White-bellied Emerald, and Buff-bellied Hummingbird.

A visit to Xocen can be arrange as a half day trip departing from Valladolid, or as part of a longer itinerary connecting other sites in the area. There is also the option to extend this tour as a full day birding experience, including sites like Chichen Itza or Chankom. Chichen Itza, beyond its archaeological importance, offers interesting birding opportunities within the surrounding dry forest. Chankom, a small village with patches of well-preserve vegetation and family-run gardens, provides an excellent complemet to the morning´s birding, ideal for any missing target species. ​