Southeastern Mexico’s Wild Heart

On the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula near the charming town of Tulum (itself a worthy drawcard given its rich archaeological significance), Sian Ka’an is the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean. This tropical paradise includes 150 000 hectares of deciduous and semi-evergreen forest interspersed with marine grass, inlets, mangroves, marshes and coastal and inland lagoons, all alive with up to 379 bird species as well as a wealth of butterflies, dragonflies, beetles and bees. Add to that its proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef—at 800-plus miles the second-longest coral reef system in the world, with over 500 fish species and 84 species of coral—and you understand why this sublime biosphere tops the bucket list for discerning travelers. 

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is made up of a mosaic of complex biomes, ranging from the dense Yucatán jungle to freshwater marshes extending out through lagoons and even Mayan-built canals, all the way to a thriving barrier reef in the Caribbean Sea. Access the reserve via Punta Allen to explore the coastal aspect, including saltwater lagoons, beaches and coral reefs. To explore the inland jungle, Mayan ruins and canals, freshwater lagoons, mangrove forests, and wetlands, enter the reserve via Muyil.

Make Every Moment Count

To enjoy the rare luxury of a stay inside Sian Ka’an itself, base yourself at Villa Uh K’aay. This extraordinary beachfront home surrounded by pristine, verdant jungle is a secluded oasis overlooking its own private beach. Designed to bring the magic of this unspoilt biosphere to life, Uh K’aay offers spectacular views from every angle, but none more stunning than the panorama from the roof. Choose your vista: the shimmering turquoise waters of the Caribbean; the lush, vibrant greens of the jungle; the muddy blues of the mangrove lagoon; or even the bright stars in the ebony night sky.  A 30-foot infinity saltwater pool, jacuzzi, fireplace lounge and star deck with telescope complete the rooftop experience.

You’ll certainly want to make the most of the great outdoors: activities include kayaking, snorkeling, massage, yoga, birdwatching, stargazing, paddle-boarding, scuba diving, cenote exploring, kite-surfing, sailing, surfing, fishing and ‘lazy river float’ trips as well as day tours of Mayan ruins in nearby Tulum, Cobá, or Chichen Itza. 

Wake Up In Your Own Private Paradise

Tucked into the dense jungle of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, beachfront Villa Na’iik is one of the most luxurious destinations in the Riviera Maya. Surrounded by verdant greenery on a five-acre estate with over 300 feet of immaculate private beachfront, the villa offers exceptional seclusion, with only jungle, sea and sky as far as you can see. Sunbathe on your secluded beach without a neighbor in sight, lounge on your spacious rooftop with amazing 360-degree views and spectacular glass-bottomed infinity pool, and relish in the delicious meals prepared by your gourmet chef. 

After some laps in the infinity pool, jump on a kayak to explore the coral reef, take a boat and visit the manatees in the lagoon, make the most of the boogie boards or snorkeling kit, or take a mellow stroll on the white sand beach. If you’d rather relax at home, lie back with your book in the dappled shade of the coco-palm lounge. And if you tire of the company of the flocks of pelicans and sea-hunting osprey flying overhead, the vibrant heritage village of Tulum is just 10 miles to your north.

Delve Back In Time At Tulum

You’ll want to make time to explore the nearby village of Tulum. Despite its discovery in the early 2000s by jet-setting celebs, Tulum retains the laidback charm and spectacular natural beauty that have made it the hotspot it is. Until very recently a small fishing village that had evolved on the site of a pre-Columbian Mayan city, Tulum has a history dating back more than a thousand years. Much of the Mayan architecture remains intact, making it one of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites. Add to that its immaculate sandy beaches edged by the clear warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, almost implausibly perfect scenery, relaxed beach bars, and fabulous traditional Mayan cuisine, and you have a recipe for heaven on earth.

Explore our portfolio of extraordinary In Residence villas in the Riviera Maya and Tulum, or contact us to curate an escape to Mexico that exceeds all your expectations.