Cancun: Kayak Tour Laguna Nichupté Mangroves & Wildlife

Summary

Kayaking the mangroves of Nichupté lagoon with locals in Cancun

You’ll paddle Laguna Nichupté by kayak with local guides who know every twist of the mangroves. Spot native birds at the “bird tree,” glide through hidden tunnels, learn about reef life, and snack on fruit mid-tour. There’s time for questions or just drifting in silence — you might end up thinking about this place long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

“Wait, is that a heron or an egret?” That’s how it started — me squinting at a branch while Alfredo grinned and told us to keep paddling, promising we’d get closer soon enough. The air felt thick and warm, kind of sweet too, like wet leaves after rain. I kept bumping my paddle against the kayak (sorry Alfredo), but he just laughed and pointed out a flash of blue — kingfisher, he said. We’d barely left the dock in Cancun and already I felt like we’d slipped into another world.

There was this part where we drifted near what they called the “bird tree” — honestly, I lost count of how many birds were perched up there. Our guide (I think his name was Li?) knew every call by heart. He even mimicked one — not bad actually — and then explained how these mangroves protect both reef and city from storms. I didn’t expect to care about mangrove roots but seeing them tangled under the water, all these little fish darting around… it just made sense. You could smell salt and something earthy, almost peppery when the breeze shifted.

Later on, we squeezed through these narrow mangrove tunnels — Alfredo joked about “kayak traffic jams” but really it was just us and some echoing bird calls. He pointed out starfish clinging to roots, bright as little lanterns underwater. My arms got tired (should’ve stretched more), but pausing in that green hush felt good. At some point I realized I hadn’t thought about my phone or work for over an hour. That doesn’t happen much lately.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak adventure in Nichupté Lagoon

• Begin kayaking in Nichupté Lagoon
• Explore mangrove forests and biodiversity
• Visit bird tree for birdwatching
• Learn about mangrove forest birth
• Navigate mangrove tunnels
• Observe starfish, sea sponges, sea squirts
• Enjoy nature with local guides

Top questions

Is this kayak tour in Cancun suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels and includes instruction from certified guides.

What wildlife can I see during the Laguna Nichupté kayak adventure?

You may spot native birds at the bird tree, starfish, sea sponges, sea squirts, and small fish among the mangroves.

Are children allowed on this Cancun kayak tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Is equipment provided for the Nichupté Lagoon kayak trip?

Yes, all equipment including kayak, paddle, life jacket, dry bag for valuables are included.

Are snacks or drinks included during the tour?

Yes, you’ll get a granola bar, fruit, and bottled water as part of your day trip.

Is this activity wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

How long does the kayak tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect enough time to explore multiple areas of Laguna Nichupté.

Are photos included in this Cancun kayaking experience?

Yes, photographs are included with your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a kayak with paddle and life jacket plus a dry bag for your valuables; you’ll also get a granola bar, fresh fruit and bottled water along the way. Photographs from your adventure are included so you don’t have to worry about your phone getting wet — just focus on paddling through those quiet mangrove tunnels with your guide nearby.