Amazing Wildlife Excursions in Mexico

Flamingos In Tulum

The swampy marshes, quiet mangroves and coastal location on the Gulf of Mexico make Sian Ka’an Biosphere in the southeast corner of the Yucatan near Belize a much different experience from Calakmul. But conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the Calakmul-Sian Ka’an Corridor, a forest that links the two. Those hoping for close encounters of the animal kind should explore Sian Ka’an by boat rather than by foot or car. The park’s warren of waterways are home to an astounding variety of tropical creatures, from flamingos and iguanas to ocelots, crocodiles, dolphins and sea turtles. Honeymooners can hire a private boat and guide through one of the local Mayan cooperatives (around $280 per day) or book a tour with Tulum-based Jeep Safari Sian Ka’an. Air-conditioned jeeps carry you to Punta Allen, a village on a narrow peninsula, along dirt roads, and you’ll take a guided boat trip through the mangroves and have several opportunities to swim or snorkel in crystal-blue waters.

Photo Credit: iStock

Where To Stay: The low-rise Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa is a Rainforest Alliance-certified, eco-friendly resort that sits on a white-sand strand just north of Tulum. The elegant all-inclusive features traditional architecture, and the warm woods and colorful Mexican decor of the 432 guest rooms are complemented by local Mayan art and crafts. The rooms and suites feature private patios with views of the Caribbean or the lush greenery, and some have swim-out access to one of the resort’s four pools. Room rates start at $374 a night.

Photo Credit: Dreams Resorts & Spas