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A great egret perched high up in the green foliage of a tree.

Explore

Mangrove Tunnels and Freshwater Springs

Explore dense coastal forests offering shade, unique vegetation, and crystal-clear swimming spots.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Beyond the flamingos, the Celestun Biosphere Reserve features an intricate network of waterways. The mangroves provide a cooler environment and house a variety of reptiles and birds.

You will navigate through red, black, and white mangroves before reaching designated areas where you can swim in the clear spring water.

One flamingo flying low over the water while another stands wading nearby.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Mangrove Tunnels

20-30 minutesLook for crocodiles

A natural network of waterways winding through thickets of red, black, and white mangroves. This area offers shade and a chance to see different wildlife away from the open lagoon. Keep a lookout for crocodiles resting on the muddy banks and iguanas lounging in the branches.

A flock of flamingos in shallow water, some feeding, with a dark background.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Ojo de Agua Baldiosera

30 minutesWear a swimsuit

A natural freshwater spring surrounded by the mangroves, known for its clear, refreshing water. The mix of fresh and saltwater creates a unique ecosystem here. Tours typically stop here for a swim, so wear your bathing suit underneath your clothes.

A vertical stack of four flamingo heads, seemingly arranged for a unique photo.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Mangroves of Dzinitun

1-2 hoursSelf-paddled option

A community-run ecotourism area offering canoe and kayak tours through restored mangrove ecosystems. This is a quiet alternative for travelers who prefer self-paddled canoes over motorized lanchas. It allows you to move at your own pace without engine noise.

Book a Boat Tour

Tourists in a small boat navigating through a tunnel formed by dense mangrove branches.
Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida9 h 4.8 (165)from $97
mangroves boat tourfrom $97 on Viator
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