Located in the coastal Peninsula of Yucatán, among mangroves and thousands of birds seeking refugee from the winter, you will find a magical place that is fully connected with nature; best known as the Celestún Biosphere Reserve, a destination offering 600 km2 of land that you must discover.
Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Celestún is a natural complex that is adorned with the colors of the turquoise Caribbean, and on the other hand, the mirrors of the water, birds and mangroves that can be found along the Estuary.
Famous for its peach-colored waters and acres rich in carotene, the Viewpoint allows you to observe an important quantity of pink Flamencos, among other species of birds, like the white and brown Pelican.
Inside the Reserve, there is a salt industry called Pilares in the region of Perdida, where you will discover how marine salt-rocks are extracted and smashed so that they can be transported more easily into the markets in tiny fragments.
At the central plaza of Celestún, you must try the delicious “marquesitas”, a traditional snack
that is consumed throughout the region.
You can also try the ceviche (raw fish marinated in lemon and garlic) with rice, mango and shrimp, a true delicacy that you will want to try again.
The Celestún Dock and its tilted Lighthouse are two must-see spots, which offer you the opportunity to swim on the warm Caribbean waters while appreciating the incredible sloped lighthouse challenging the laws of physics as it still resists the passing of time.
Wejoytrip recommends
travel the 22 km conformed by the Estuary of Celestún.
There are ships that part from the dock and that can take you through different touristic attractions like the Pájaros Island (Bird Island), “Ojo de Agua/Baldjosera”, the mangrove tunnel and the “Parador de la Ría”.
In the mangrove tunnel, you will be amazed at the natural formations that exist among the roots, fishes and serpents of the site, which you will be able to see while your boat crosses through the swamps.
You must also visit the Petrified Forest, some swamps and cenotes (natural wells).
A dish you must try is the Sikil Pak, a type of salad made with papaya, avocado and goat cheese, seasoned with lime and cumin; it may sound odd but it is truly delicious and it is a great source of fiber, making it a complete breakfast.
For lunch, what about a halibut fillet freshly caught to revive the delicious flavors of the sea? Remember to keep yourself hydrated, use sunscreen and bring comfortable clothes; if possible, bring cotton clothes so that the heat won’t be a problem.
Things to see and do
eco tourism, boat trips, tours, swimming, gastronomy.
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