Kayaking in Sisal from Merida: Mangroves and swimming

Paddle through mangrove channels where birds nest and fish dart, then cool off in a freshwater spring

Kayak through the mangroves near Sisal, departing from Merida with a guide, spotting birds, fish and crabs among the trees and roots. The day includes a swim at the Eye of Carbonera Water, a freshwater spring, time to walk Sisal's streets, and the return drive to Merida. The kayak, guide, transport and seasonal fruit are included. The journey from Merida takes about an hour and ten minutes each way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Kayak tour and beach visit in Sisal

• Meet at the designated meeting point
• Stop at shop to buy water and snacks
• Travel to Sisal (1 hour 10 minutes)
• Kayak through mangroves and observe wildlife
• Swim at Eye of Carbonera Water
• Enjoy free time walking and relaxing in town
• Return to Mérida

The experience

Eight to nine hours total, starting with pickup from your meeting point in Merida and a short stop at a shop where you can grab water and snacks before the drive to Sisal. The kayak portion is the heart of it: you paddle through the mangrove channels where the trees grow thick and the water stays calm. The guide points out birds nesting in the branches, fish moving below, crabs along the roots, and explains the history and ecology of the place. Flamingos appear in April and May.

After paddling, you swim and cool off at the Eye of Carbonera Water, a natural freshwater spring. The guide provides natural water and seasonal fruit during the activity. Then there's free time to walk through Sisal's colorful streets and explore on your own. The guide can recommend restaurants if you want to eat, though food is not included in the price. The return drive to Merida takes the same route back, finishing the day around eight or nine hours after you started.

What’s included

• Kayak and paddle.
• air-conditioned vehicle transport from Merida to Sisal and back.
• live guide in English or Spanish.
• natural water and seasonal fruit during the activity.
• entry to the Eye of Carbonera Water for swimming.

Before you book

Days and timesFriday to SundayDeparts at 08:00

Book up to10h before

AgesAdult (12 to 65 years) · Senior (66 and older) · Child (under 12)

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 10 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Get Routa

Is this one for you?The pickup from Merida and air-conditioned transport both ways mean you don't need a car or a way to reach Sisal on your own. The full day settles the logistics if you're staying in the city without a rental.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 12).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What wildlife will I see while kayaking through the mangroves?

Birds nesting in the mangrove branches, fish in the water, and crabs along the roots are common sightings. Flamingos appear during April and May specifically.

Is the Eye of Carbonera Water a natural spring or a pool?

The Eye of Carbonera Water is a natural freshwater spring where you swim and cool off during the kayaking day.

Do I need to arrange my own transport from Merida to Sisal?

No. An air-conditioned vehicle picks you up at your meeting point in Merida and drives you to Sisal, a journey of about an hour and ten minutes, then returns you at the end of the day.

Is lunch included, and where do I eat in Sisal?

Lunch is not included, but you have free time to walk Sisal's streets and eat at a restaurant of your choice. The guide will recommend options based on what you're in the mood for.