In 1986, the Mexican government set aside over a million acres to create a huge national park, protecting animals, plants, and the Mayan ruins. Tourists who visit Cancun can visit these areas to appreciate the beauty of the natural land and to learn about the protected species that live in the reserve. When the reserve was founded, a number of homes and businesses were already in place. These people we allowed to stay, so you will find that this national park is a little different from those found in the United States. However, there are parts of the reserve where no one is allowed to go, in order to protect the natural surroundings.

Tours through the jungle have two parts. First, you travel by car or van through the area with a biologist. English and Spanish speakers are both available for tourists. You must provide your own vehicle in most cases, although there is a limited number of seats on a reserve-owned van if you book the tour early enough. For the second part of the tour, you and many other visitors will board a motor boat and tour the lagoon.

You can also tour the area on your own. Admission is free and you are welcome as long as you register your car. However, note that the road through the park is in very poor condition and that the last real gas station is in Tulum. Plan accordingly.

Visiting this reserve could be the highlight of your Cancun vacation. On this tour, you will have the chance to see a variety of exotic plants and animals, and you may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of some monkeys or a jaguar. Nature lovers should without a doubt consider this option when visiting Cancun.