Excursion to Celestun, Swimming, Hiking & Boat Ride

Explore Celestún’s Natural Wonders on a Full-Day Tour from Mérida

This $125 tour offers a comprehensive experience of Celestún, a protected sanctuary on the Yucatán coast, perfect for lovers of nature, birdwatching, and relaxing beach moments. The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting early in Mérida and ending back in the city, making it a convenient day trip for those eager to see flamingos, explore mangroves, and unwind at the beach.

What sets this tour apart is the 2-hour boat ride through the mangrove reserve, a chance to see flamingos in their natural habitat, visit Bird Island, and cruise through narrow mangrove tunnels. Plus, the Mayan clay bath offers a natural skin rejuvenation treat, while the free time at the beach provides plenty of opportunity to swim or relax. The trip is ideal for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone seeking unspoiled coastal scenery near Mérida.

Key Points

• Includes a 2-hour boat ride through Celestún’s mangrove reserve, with sightings of flamingos and other bird species.
• Visit Bird Island and observe local and migratory birds in their natural environment.
• Stop at the Horseshoe Ruins, a lesser-known archaeological site offering a glimpse into ancient history.
• Enjoy a Mayan clay bath using natural mineral-rich clay believed to improve skin health.
• Relax with a 3-hour beach break at Pier to Tía Candy restaurant, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or dining.
• Transportation and guided services are included, with flexible meeting points and a small group size.

Starting the Day in Mérida: Meeting and Transportation

The tour begins at 8:00 a.m. with pickup from one of three designated meeting points in Mérida, including options near Parque de Santa Ana or Fiesta Americana Mérida. The round-trip transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth start to the day. The group size is limited to 20 people, creating an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Travelers should arrive promptly, as pickups involve a brief 10-minute wait at each meeting point. Providing a contact number ensures support during pickup. The tour does not include hotel pickups, so guests must meet at the designated spots or advise the provider of their hotel for the closest meeting point.

Celestún’s Mangrove Reserve and Bird Watching

The core of this adventure is the 2-hour boat ride through Celestún’s mangrove reserve, one of Yucatán’s most treasured natural areas. The boat ride begins with a visit to Bird Island, a sanctuary for numerous local and migratory birds. Here, sighting flamingos is common and a highlight of the tour, as described in positive feedback emphasizing the spectacular number of these pink birds.

During the cruise, travelers pass through the sea-estuary meeting point, where freshwater and saltwater converge, and through a mangrove tunnel—a narrow, lush waterway that offers a tranquil, scenic experience. The water hole, a peaceful freshwater spring, provides a quiet spot to observe wildlife and enjoy the scenery. The boat adventure combines wildlife observation with a relaxing glide through nature’s waterways.

Exploring the Hidden Horseshoe Ruins

A lesser-known highlight of this tour is the visit to the Horseshoe Ruins, a concealed archaeological site near Celestún. While not as famous as other Mayan ruins, this spot offers insight into ancient Mayan presence in the region. Its quiet location makes it ideal for those interested in history without large crowds.

The site provides an intimate setting to appreciate Mayan architecture and cultural heritage, adding a historical dimension to the overall experience. The guide explains the significance of this site, enriching your understanding of the area’s past.

Experiencing the Mayan Clay Bath

One of the most unique aspects of this tour is the Mayan clay bath. Using natural, mineral-rich clay, this activity is believed to rejuvenate the skin and offer a natural health boost. Travelers can apply the clay to their skin and enjoy its soothing, mineral properties. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that enhances the connection to local traditions and natural remedies.

The clay bath is conveniently located near the boat ride, making it an accessible addition to the day’s activities. No prior experience is necessary, and it appeals to those curious about natural health treatments or simply looking for a fun activity.

Beach Break at Pier to Tía Candy

After the boat ride, the tour takes a 3-hour beach stop at Pier to Tía Candy, a seaside restaurant and recreation spot. This is the perfect moment to relax, swim, or enjoy a meal. Swimsuits are recommended if you wish to take full advantage of the water, and there are restroom facilities at the pier for convenience.

The break includes free time to soak up the sun, walk along the shore, or indulge in regional food options such as chicken or fish dishes. The setting offers a peaceful seaside atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after the morning’s excursions.

Return to Mérida and Optional Local Experiences

The tour concludes with a return to Mérida around 4 p.m.. An additional hour is available for those interested in local sightseeing or exploring nearby attractions. The guide may offer insights into Mérida’s cultural sites or recommend other activities.

This flexible schedule allows guests to plan their evening or continue exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. The tour’s small group setting and knowledgeable bilingual guide ensure a personalized experience throughout the day.

Practical Details and Tips for Participants

Participants should bring sunscreen, comfortable clothes, swimsuits, a change of clothes, water, and cash for optional purchases at the beach. The tour’s minimum group size is four, with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience and attentive guide service.

While the tour offers many highlights, note that drinks at the restaurant are not included. Also, rescheduling or refunds are not available if cancellations occur on the same day, so plan accordingly. For ease, travelers can provide their hotel name in advance for the closest meeting point if preferred.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits those who love nature, wildlife, and birdwatching—especially fans of flamingos and mangrove ecosystems. It also appeals to history enthusiasts interested in Mayan ruins and those wanting a relaxing beach day combined with cultural insight. The Mayan clay bath adds a fun, natural element that many find refreshing.

Since the tour includes active boat rides and walking, comfortable footwear and swimsuits are recommended. The small group size and bilingual guide make it suitable for travelers seeking a personal, well-organized day trip from Mérida.

Celestún’s Natural Beauty and Cultural Charm in One Day

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Celestún’s ecological and historical highlights. The 2-hour boat journey through mangroves, the chance to see flamingos in their habitat, and the visit to Horseshoe Ruins combine to create an enriching experience.

The free time at the beach adds a relaxing touch, while the Mayan clay bath connects visitors to local traditions. The logistics are straightforward, with round transportation and a bilingual guide, making this a trustworthy choice for those wanting an authentic taste of Yucatán’s coast.

Overall, this tour balances adventure, wildlife viewing, cultural discovery, and leisure, making it a rewarding day trip for visitors based in Mérida. The high rating of 5.0 from initial reviews reflects strong satisfaction, mainly due to the stunning flamingo sightings and knowledgeable guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but physical mobility should be considered for activities like walking and boat rides.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks at the restaurant are not included. Tour participants should bring their own water and cash for other purchases.

What should I bring for the boat ride?
Sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a hat are recommended. Swimsuits are suggested if you plan to swim or participate in the clay bath.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering bird watching, the mangrove tunnel, and freshwater swimming.

Can I reschedule or get a refund?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, pickups are only at designated meeting points in Mérida, but you can provide your hotel info for the closest meeting spot if needed.