Sian Ka'an
Mexico ·
Description
Sian Ka'an means 'origin of the sky' in Mayan, and the name doesn't exaggerate. This Riviera Maya reserve protects tropical jungle, mangroves, cenotes, turquoise bays and the world's second-longest reef. Jaguars hunt at night, manatees swim in lagoons, and Muyil's Maya ruins peek through vegetation.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
Sian Ka'an protects exceptional coastal and terrestrial ecosystems including part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. It harbors endangered species like jaguar and manatee. Maya archaeological sites add cultural value.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
For protecting exceptional coastal ecosystems, part of the Mesoamerican reef and endangered species.
It was inscribed in 1987 under criteria (vii) and (x).
On the Caribbean coast of Quintana Roo, Mexico, south of Tulum.
Yes, tours from Tulum; you navigate mangrove channels and snorkel.
Yes, but they're nocturnal and elusive; seeing them is very rare.