Sian Kaan & Muyil: Floating Canals Day Trip with Pickup

Summary

Float ancient Mayan canals after wandering Muyil’s quiet ruins

You’ll wander Muyil’s peaceful ruins with a local guide before floating down Sian Kaan’s ancient Mayan canals—clear water, wild birds overhead, and sunlight through mangroves. Includes hotel pickup, all entry fees, bottled water for the heat, plus someone local who actually knows every twist of the path.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to just let go and float where the Mayans once did? That was basically my whole afternoon in Sian Kaan. We started at Muyil — not the big, crowded ruins you see on postcards, but a smaller spot tucked into the jungle. Our guide, Sofia, pointed out these weirdly sweet-smelling flowers (I forgot the name already) and told us how this place used to connect to the coast centuries ago. The stone paths felt warm under my sandals, and there was this hush except for birds and a distant splash — maybe a fish or something bigger? I don’t know, I didn’t ask.

After about half an hour walking through trees that looked older than time itself, we hopped in a van for a short drive to the lagoons. The air changed — more open, salty somehow. Sofia handed out life vests (“even if you’re a good swimmer, trust me,” she said) and then we just… floated. The water in these Sian Kaan floating canals is so clear you can see your toes wiggling above sand and roots. It’s not cold exactly, but it wakes you up; I remember laughing because little fish kept darting past my fingers. There’s this gentle current that carries you along between tall mangroves, so mostly you just lie back and let it happen.

I tried to say thank you in Maya when we got out — “Yum bo’otik,” or something close — which made Sofia laugh (I probably butchered it). The sun was getting low by then, painting everything gold. Even now I can hear that soft slap of water against wood when I close my eyes. If you want a day trip from Tulum or Playa del Carmen that doesn’t feel rushed or crowded — just slow drifting and old stories — this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Muyil and float lagoons

• Walk 30 minutes to Muyil site
• Explore Muyil archaeological site
• Ride to lagoons
• Float in freshwater canals

Top questions

How long does the Sian Kaan & Muyil floating canals tour take?

The tour involves about 30 minutes walking at Muyil ruins plus time floating in the canals; allow most of a day including travel from Tulum or Playa del Carmen.

Is hotel pickup included for the Sian Kaan floating canals tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included as part of your day trip booking.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

What should I wear for the Muyil & Sian Kaan floating tour?

Wear comfortable shoes for walking at Muyil ruins and bring swimwear for floating in the canals.

How many people are on each tour group?

A maximum of 6 people per booking is allowed for this day trip experience.

Is lunch included on the Sian Kaan canal tour?

No lunch is mentioned as included; bottled water and beverages are provided during the tour.

Are national park fees covered in the price?

Yes, all national park fees as well as taxes are included in your booking.

Can anyone join or do I need to be very fit?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but does involve moderate walking at Muyil ruins.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from your accommodation, all entry fees for both Muyil ruins and Sian Kaan biosphere, bottled water to keep cool under the sun, beverages during your journey, plus guidance from someone local who knows every shortcut between jungle paths and mangrove canals before bringing you back again.